Jonathan Bouchet Manheim
Meeting the Co-Founder and Managing Director of K-3
“We strive to seamlessly blend innovation with tradition by drawing on age-old concepts and craftsmanship, reimagined through a modern lens“
Last week, we had the pleasure of meeting Jonathan Bouchet Manheim, co-founder and managing director of K-3, at the heart of the brand’s pop-up at Paris Deco Home. He tells us more about the essence of their latest collection, Hakanasa, which reveals itself a beautiful blend of ancient tradition and contemporary design, filled with subtle references to Japanese philosophy and literature.
In this pop-up, you’re presenting a brand new collection, Hakanasa. What’s the meaning lying behind this Japanese word?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
The word Hakanasa is a Japanese term that carries a nuanced meaning. It embodies the fleeting nature of life and the ephemeral beauty found within those transient moments. This collection is deeply inspired by these themes of movement and light.
Through Hakanasa, we sought to explore the interplay between light and nature, evoking shifting perspectives. The designs reflect transformation, capturing the poetic beauty of changing light. Featuring geometric graphics and effects, the collection conveys an ever-evolving quality, celebrating the fleeting and finding wonder in impermanence.
The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter is one of the main inspirations for the collection, can you tell us more about this legend?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter is one of Japan’s oldest surviving works of fiction, dating back to the Heian period (9th–10th century). It tells the story of Kaguya-hime, a princess from the Moon discovered by a bamboo cutter inside a glowing bamboo stalk. As she grows, Kaguya-hime brings her adoptive family great fortune, including treasures like sumptuous silks and gold found in the bamboo.
Her beauty earns her the title of “Princess of Light,” attracting many suitors, including the emperor. However, she sets them impossible tasks to obtain five sacred relics. Longing to return to her celestial home, Kaguya-hime is eventually taken back to the Moon by celestial beings. When she dons a magical feathered garment, she transforms and forgets all earthly ties, symbolising the fleeting beauty that is central to this collection.
In the SHOGUN BLUE collection, you already explored the tale through the figure of the samurai. What’s the approach in Hakanasa?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
In the Shogun collections, we explored the samurai as a symbol of strength and resilience. With Hakanasa, our focus takes a more poetic turn, drawing inspiration from the Tale of the Bamboo Cutter and its themes of earthly splendour.
This collection seeks to capture the essence of otherworldly beauty through dreamlike landscapes, where the boundaries of nature, reimagined with vibrant colours and intricate textures. By weaving together elegant motifs and rich textures, we wanted to transform interiors into enchanting realms, infused with imagination.
Is there any symbolism behind the patterns and motifs of the fabrics?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
The patterns in our fabrics are rich with symbolism, each inspired by nature, and designed to celebrate strength, and connection. Many designs draw directly from nature, such as bamboo and flowers, symbolising the resilience of the natural world. Other motifs reflect the mystical effects of light, whether in the sky or its shimmering reflections on water, inviting moments of contemplation. Some patterns evoke the earthly realms, embodying grounded strength. We’ve also reimagined iconic symbols, weaving geometric patterns to bring a harmonious quality. Stripes evoke the refined layering of silk kimonos, while Ikat motifs pay homage to traditional weaving techniques, offering a sumptuous expression of timeless craftsmanship.
What about the colour palette?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
We worked to bring the collection to life with light, bold, and dark palettes. The light palette features pale, neutral tones inspired by the soft brilliance of moonlight. The dark palette draws from the deep, rich hues of the night sky. The bold palette embraces the vibrant energy of imperial red. Each colour has been chosen to not only stand out on its own but also to harmonise with one another, creating a cohesive balance.
For the first time, you’re offering a collection of wallcoverings and outdoor fabrics. Are you thinking of expanding to other areas?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
Yes, we’re always excited to explore new ways of extending our aesthetic. This collection marks our first foray into wallcoverings and outdoor fabrics, and we’re thrilled about the possibilities.
We have no creative boundaries and are curious and willing to cover a fully immersive interior universe. We love to work and learn from talented craftsmen to push our limits and these new ventures reflect our commitment to bringing our distinctive design philosophy.
K-3’s aesthetic is resolutely modern while embracing age-old concepts and artistry. How do you manage to balance innovation and tradition?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
At K-3, we strive to seamlessly blend innovation with tradition by drawing on age-old concepts and craftsmanship, reimagined through a modern lens. Traditional manufacturing techniques, classic furniture forms, and ancient cultural practices serve as the foundation of our designs. To this, we add bold colours, dynamic combinations, and maximalist patterns, creating a contemporary aesthetic.
This approach creates a unique balance, honouring timeless artistry while introducing a sense of joy and modern relevance. Tradition provides a sense of balance and comfort, while contemporary elements bring aesthetics and innovation, ensuring our designs feel both rooted in history and resonate with the present.
A blend of influences is at the heart of K-3, which embodies this meeting between Eastern and Western. Can you tell us about the creation of the brand?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
The creation of K-3 was driven by a deep appreciation for the fusion of diverse influences and horizons. From the beginning, we have embraced the richness of the world’s history, art, architecture, and cultures, using these as an endless source of inspiration.
K-3 reflects our belief that beauty lies in the interconnectedness of cultures, celebrating the harmony that arises when diverse elements come together.
How has your personal cross-cultural background influenced your approach to design and your work at K-3 at large?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
Growing up between France and the USA, and travelling to countries rich in aesthetics like Brazil, has deeply shaped my approach to design. These cross-cultural experiences instilled in me a passion for blending diverse influences and breaking down cultural boundaries in my work.
At K-3, it was essential to form an international team that brings their unique perspectives and influences to our collections. This approach ensures that our designs evolve continuously, reflecting a rich tapestry of global ideas and perspectives, without being confined by cultural frontiers.
The rest of the collection, which includes furniture and homeware accessories, will be presented at Milan Design Week next April. What can we expect?
JONATHAN BOUCHET MANHEIM:
At Milan Design Week next April, we will present the rest of the collection, including furniture and homeware accessories, with an immersive installation on Via Meravigli. This space will bring the new collection of textiles, wallpapers, and our graphic universe to life as physical pieces.
Our aim is to create a dynamic and immersive experience that elevates maximalist aesthetics, showcasing how they can be both comforting and joyful. Through this installation, we hope to demonstrate the richness of the collection and inspire visitors with a bold, sensory celebration of design.
Interview by Say Who
Photos: Louis Liébert
