Exploring Materials & Craft

Continual research in Japan

I've been travelling to Japan for nearly two decades. In the beginning, most of those trips were centred around Tokyo. I was drawn to the energy of the city, the people, the architecture, and the constant sense of discovery.

As HAVEN grew from a retailer into our own brand, the way I experienced Japan started to change. I began spending more time outside the major cities, visiting the mills, workshops, and factories where many of our materials and garments begin. Over time, I came to appreciate the slower pace of the countryside and the opportunity to spend time with the artisans and craftspeople behind our work.

One of the things that continues to inspire me about Japan is the depth of regional specialization. Rather than everything being concentrated in one place, each region has developed its own expertise over generations. Okayama and Kojima are synonymous with denim and indigo dyeing, while also being home to one of Japan's few GORE-TEX licensed manufacturing facilities. Wakayama has a long history of circular knitting and jersey production. Kyoto continues centuries-old traditions of dyeing and finishing, while Kanagawa is home to some of Japan's most respected leather makers. It's a unique ecosystem where knowledge has remained deeply rooted in each region, allowing generations of expertise to evolve while staying true to their origins.

Many of these workshops have existed for generations. Today, many are navigating an important transition as second and third generations take on the responsibility of preserving and evolving their family's craft. There is a deep sense of pride in carrying that knowledge forward while continuing to innovate and adapt for the future. Spending time with these artisans has given me a deeper appreciation for the dedication required to preserve skills that have been refined over generations.

This season marked an exciting step forward for HAVEN. Alongside our long-standing partners, we began exploring bespoke textiles, custom dye treatments, and new approaches to garment construction. Every visit expands our understanding of what is possible and every conversation opens the door to ideas we couldn't have imagined a few years ago. The process has become one of continual material exploration, where curiosity often leads to the most meaningful discoveries.

Building relationships across cultures takes time and patience. We've learned how to communicate beyond language, and appreciating the generosity with which our partners share their knowledge and expertise. Every visit leaves us with a deeper understanding of not only the materials themselves, but also the people, history, and philosophy behind them.

Arthur Chmielewski

HAVEN Co-Founder | Creative Director

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