Renowned Japanese jeweler Hirotaka Inoue has taken a bold step into the realm of high jewelry with the launch of Maison Hirotaka, an exclusive boutique in Azabudai Hills, Tokyo. This venture marks a significant expansion for Inoue’s brand, Hirotaka, which already boasts a strong following. The Maison Hirotaka boutique introduces its inaugural high jewelry collection, beginning with the opulent Bird of Paradise collection.
Inoue, reflecting on his roots in high jewelry, describes this expansion as a natural progression for his brand. He notes that his clientele has matured and is seeking sophistication and luxury, a demand he aims to meet with Maison Hirotaka.
The new flagship store in Azabudai Hills is a noteworthy addition to Inoue’s retail empire, which spans eight stores across Japan, including recent openings in Osaka and Kyoto. The Bird of Paradise collection, the first offering from Maison Hirotaka, showcases precious large sapphires in various colors, emeralds for necklaces and rings, tzavorite, and rubelite. Inoue aims to capture “the joy of the incredible colors of exotic birds” through these exquisite gemstones.
For Inoue, the creative excitement in working with precious gemstones lies in discovering the perfect match. He likens it to finding a great friend in life, where the right size, clarity, color, and cut seamlessly inspire his design ideas.
Introducing a sentimental touch, Maison Hirotaka presents the Bricolage Collection, inspired by the French concept of bricolage, a “do-it-yourself” approach to creation. Inoue draws inspiration from a chain necklace he crafted for his mother two decades ago, rooted in a playful and ever-changing assembly of old rings, charms, pearls, and coins.
Inoue’s journey in the world of jewelry design began in 2010 with a small trunk show in New York City, showcasing pieces that later became brand signatures. His design philosophy, marked by abstracting nature and space to create modern and often asymmetric pieces, resonated with buyers and stylists, leading to the brand’s success.
New York remains a continued source of inspiration for Inoue, who admires the city’s commitment to originality and individual style that transcends trends. His sketches, a vital part of his creative process, often take shape before a specific theme, with words or shapes acting as triggers.
Maison Hirotaka’s high-end collection ranges from $5,000 to $100,000, reflecting the rarity of stones and materials used. Inoue takes a unique approach to high jewelry, emphasizing the bespoke and individual nature of his creations. Inoue is also exploring partnerships with stores that align with Maison Hirotaka, with the aim of bringing the Bricolage collection to the United States.
