Makoto Karaki
For over 60 years, he has walked the path of a craftsman. Through the bustling, heartwarming days of the Showa era when artisans thrived, he dedicated his life to creating wooden fixtures and custom-made furniture. Known as the idea man of the Karaki Tategu Joinery, he not only brought fresh concepts to life but also possessed the skill to turn them into reality. During a time when aluminum window frames were still rare, he was among the first to adopt this new technology, contributing to its widespread use.
Born and raised in Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan. His guiding principle is "Sometimes the best gain is to lose."
Thanks to the support of the local community, he has been able to continue crafting the wooden fixtures he loves so dearly. A lifelong craftsman, he remains active, and with respect for Japan’s time-honored traditions, he will continue to pursue the creation of beautiful, timeless pieces.
Suguru Karaki
He is a reformer who values tradition and craftsmanship while embracing new technologies with enthusiasm.
Drawing on his knowledge and experience as a site manager, he expanded the scope of Karaki Tategu Joinery’s business to include both new construction and renovation projects.
With a naturally optimistic spirit, when he finds something exciting, he jumps right into action. Born and raised in Hachioji, Tokyo, Japan, after graduating from university, he initially rebelled against his father and joined a major corporation. However, disillusioned by the company’s money-driven values, he returned to the family business. His hobby is exploring and admiring cultural and historical buildings. His passion lies in carrying forward the beauty of wooden fixtures for future generations to enjoy.
Atsushi Karaki
He is a true craftsman at heart, yet his focus isn’t solely on perfecting his technical skills. He believes that the most important thing is to propose designs that are well-balanced and suited to each building. In his view, the quality of a building is determined by its fittings, and he holds an extraordinary dedication to their craftsmanship. His favorite architectural style is sukiya architecture, a refined and minimalist form that celebrates subtle beauty. Deeply inspired by masters such as Kobayashi Jodei, Shibata Zeshin, and Soga Shohaku, he strives to achieve what machines simply cannot.
A former boxer, his pursuit of excellence goes beyond just the physical. Although one might expect a craftsman to be rather serious, in his personal life, he’s known for being the one people love to tease.
Mina Kobayashi
Graduating from Kogakuin University's Faculty of Architecture, she was drawn to the unique craftsmanship of Karaki Tategu Joinery’s fittings and the delicate beauty of kumiko woodwork, which led her to join the company. Now, she is honing her skills, balancing the time-honored techniques passed down through generations with a drive for speed and continuous improvement.
It is said that Japan’s architectural techniques are the finest in the world. Within Japan, Karaki Tategu Joinery, with over a century of history, provides world-class fittings and kumiko woodwork.
Even a single fitting adorned with intricate kumiko designs can transform the atmosphere of a room. She dreams of sharing the timeless allure of these traditional fittings with the younger generations.
