On the face of it, Mazda’s new concepts appear like answers to questions nobody really asked: what would a Kodo Design bicycle and sofa look like?
However, Mazda’s intentions are not to venture into new business areas but to promote their renewed focus on design to a different crowd at the Milan Design Week that runs from April 14 to 19.
“Over the past few years, design has become an essential part of who we are, adding an artistic value to the entire Mazda brand experience,” said Masahiro Moro, Mazda’s Managing Executive Officer.
“As such, it only makes sense that we introduce our design messages here in Milan, a city of the apex of the design world, in order to elevate our brand image. Moving forward, we will create more opportunities to familiarize customers with Mazda and Mazda design in order to raise the value of our brand and strengthen our bond with customers,” he added.
The “Bike by KODO concept” is said to be a track racer inspired by the new MX-5 roadster, while the “Sofa by KODO concept,” is a collaborative effort between Mazda’s designers and Italian furniture makers who were influenced by the new CX-3 small crossover.
Joining these two concepts in Milan are a number of Kodo Design-inspired works by traditional Japanese craftsmen, including the tsuiki copperware wine cooler and the SHIRAITO lacquered box.
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