In 1994, Shinsuke Takizawa started the brand NEIGHBORHOOD in Harajuku, Tokyo. A pioneer of the Ura-Hara movement and one of the most influential streetwear figures in Japan. Takizawa manages to effortlessly create a unique blend of the rebellious spirit found in motorcycle culture, classical militaristic aesthetics and vintage American workwear. The concept of "basic clothing" is created by digesting unique interpretations of elements from outdoor and traditional themes. Suggesting this lifestyle is the base for all products and projects of which NEIGHBORHOOD is involved with, and will always live in the themes for the seasons. With consistent collaborations and a growing list of outside ventures, the heritage enthusiast continues to build on the American staples that have influenced the NEIGHBORHOOD brand.

Takizawa's interests and hobbies have been closely interrelated with his work, allowing him to share his passion through clothing and associated projects. Each sub-division of NEIGHBORHOOD represents an influence or interest, with the latest addition to the NEIGHBORHOOD roster - SRL (Specimen Research Labratory). Having developed an interest in nature at an early age, growing up in the mountains of countryside Nagano, he was surrounded by plants and animals. Nurturing his selection of plants in a rooftop greenhouse, SRL aims to bridge nature and the city landscape and urban living. 

SUPPLY visited the SRL Greenhouse and asked Shinsuke Takizawa a few questions about the concept. Below, are the photos inside the greenhouse and Takizawa's response...

 

When did you first discover your interest in botany?

Actually my interest of growing a plant in a pot started three to four years ago. Before I was much interested in bigger plants from Australia and Mexico for growing in my garden.

 

 

Can you please explain what SRL is and the inspiration behind starting SRL? 

SRL started off as a lifestye segment collection, which NEIGHBORHOOD expressed and presented.
We will keep producing equipment / tools to co-exist with plants together for city dwellers (it does not have to be city living). I think the image of “plant” is more for country living. Especially in Tokyo, we have the problem of residential size and space to even own a garden. Plants in pots is most ideal for city residence and plants such as cactus can be treated as Bonsai - a vegetation art from.

  

 

How and when was the greenhouse made? 

When you nurture a life form, and start propagating more, then you realize you have to care and be mindful of the arrangement and placement for each environment. 
The Greenhouse “SPECIMEN RESEARCH LABORATORY” was a natural conclusion that I built with my friend WARLOCK. 

It took about a year and a half to plan and build it.

 

 

Is there a particular type of plant that you choose to put in the greenhouse?

I think Madagascar and a plant from Somalian origin will crowd the place.

 

 

NEIGHBORHOOD have always pursued “original style”; with these pots that you have done, they have a serrated edge. Is this customisation element specific for SRL?

This is a pot I worked to gather with my friend ceramic artist “INVISIBLE INK” and the zig-zag design has been used by him before we actually met.
It was a nice surprise when we came up with the same graphic. 

 

 

When does the question of form vs function arise in your design/customisation process?

As part of designing, I have been always conscious and question before making: to make what, for what environment, what for and how it is needed? I believe this speaks for (and has significant meaning) when designing motorcycles and cars.

 

 

The history of how these plants arrived in Japan is very interesting, can you please give a brief breakdown of how they came to be?

It may not be revealed outside Japan, but proven by historical document, there was a big trend for cactus in 1930s originally brought in from outside Japan. With many decades passed, there are now Japanese grown cacti and new breeds of cacti propagated here. 

 

 

Are the hybrids in your greenhouse specific to SRL?

I am currently working on this and I'm highly confident it can happen.

 

 

A few plants have “grafting”, what is this?

Grafting is done for the purpose of propagating / breeding cactus. By joining (grafting) the plant, the area / part that is joined grows extensively fast. Perhaps grafting is just like a boost-turbo function.
For the slow growing plant, grafting is essential in order to propagate.

 

 

NEIGHBORHOOD have collaborated with Invisible Ink on creating a selection of pots. How did this collaboration come to be?

Our taste is very similar so it did not take time to achieve collaboration.
The reason why there is so much attention to pot planting is because of his work. I will keep supporting his production of course and also await new challenges.

 

 

Thank you Shinsuke Takizawa and the NEIGHBORHOOD family for their support.

  

 

Interview and photos by Anthony Kwang