Due to the prolonged impact of the coronavirus since last year, our lifestyles have changed dramatically . We've been finding ways to spend our time comfortably at home, expanding our hobbies, and using our balconies and gardens to relax with family and close friends.

Responding to these changes, the travel bag section on the first basement floor of the main building has created a new corner dedicated to items for enjoying the outdoors. Assistant supervisor Hayashihara, who spearheaded this initiative, will learn about ways to enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities by interviewing two outdoor enthusiasts who regularly use AS2OV x Minimal Works items about how they utilize them.

Whether at home or outside, men never run out of things to talk about.

Joining us to showcase how to use AS2OV x Minimal Works items are graphic designer Katsuyuki Uematsu and composer, arranger, bassist, guitarist, and sound producer Yutaka Sugaya. According to Sugaya, Uematsu is a "rock designer" who also works on illustrations and picture books, while Sugaya has been involved in the production of music for artists such as FUNKY MONKEY BABYS, Yusuke (Yusuke Kamiji), and Nana Mizuki.

The two have known each other since their twenties, making this their 22nd year of friendship. Sugaya says, "Since the pandemic started, I've had fewer opportunities to go out for drinks and have been spending more time at home."

Stylish storage items that perfectly complement a "place where music is born."

Hayashibara: I love music, so I'm a little moved to see aluminum containers nestled in this kind of atmosphere.

I'm glad that the aluminum container recommended by Ms. Sugaya Hayashihara fits in my living room/workroom without looking out of place. If it were a typical plastic container, I'd have to hide it somewhere.

Hayashibara, what do you think of it after actually using it?

Sugaya: I like that it looks high-end, is durable, and lightweight. The design is great. I usually use plastic containers to carry cables, effects pedals, and other equipment besides instruments during live performances, but this one locks and feels more like an interior item than just a luggage carrier. Having two or three would make it look even cooler. It fits my lifestyle perfectly.

Hayashibara: Simply placing it in a room instantly adds a touch of style, making it perfect for use as a table, a shelf, or for so-called "display storage." The aluminum develops a subtle sheen with use, so feel free to carry it around and use it often.

Sugaya: I'm more of an indoor person, but my friend Uematsu loves the outdoors, so I'll have him take this container with him when we go camping next time.

Having an item that combines storage and transport capabilities, rather than a Hayashibara suitcase, will definitely expand your range of activities!


What do you think of using the Hayashibara tote bag?

Sugaya: I use it as my everyday shopping bag, but because the canvas fabric is so sturdy, I also use it to carry my laptop and other things when I go to the studio outside. I work in music, but I actually have quite a lot of things to carry. I like that it can be used in a variety of situations and that it has a large capacity.

The Hayashibara bag itself is durable and lightweight, making it suitable not only for outdoor activities but also for sports and other uses. The bottom is made of waterproof PVC fabric, so it can be placed directly on the ground and used in tough conditions.

Stylish containers and bags that will get you excited even before you start preparing for your outdoor adventure.

Mr. Hayashibara Uematsu, your expression as you get ready to go out is radiant! You look so cool carrying the container.

My whole family loves Uematsu Outdoors so much that we go there to Nasu or Yamanashi about twice a month. This container is lightweight, stylish, and really elevates the look of the place. You can customize it by adding stickers, and the fact that you can enjoy the wear and tear as it develops a unique character suits my style.

Hayashibara: This container can be used as a storage box when camping, for storing outdoor items used for BBQs, or even as a makeshift table.

While Uematsu Plastics containers are used to transport enamelware and other items, these aluminum containers are likely to attract attention when used as tables and chairs at campsites.

Mr. Hayashibara Uematsu's pouch-wearing outfit also gives him the look of a dad who enjoys the outdoors, and I'm sure his children will love it.

Uematsu: I instantly fell in love with this pouch. When I'm playing in the river with my kids, I've had my wallet and keys get submerged in my pants pockets several times. With this pouch, I don't have to worry about that, and the zipper is seam-taped, so I don't have to worry about sudden rain.

This waist pouch is a perfect fit for Uematsu's style, even more so than the Hayashibara waist pouch. Attach a carabiner or other accessories for versatile use.

Uematsu: This size and color make it practical for everyday use in the city, so I'd like to use it regularly.

What are the secrets to adult relationships, like chatting on a balcony in the cool evening air?

What is the usual relationship between Hayashibara Uematsu and Sugaya?

Uematsu: I'm a graphic designer, and Sugaya is a musician. I'm in charge of the graphics and illustrations for the musicians that Sugaya produces.

Sugaya Uematsu is three years older than me, and we've known each other for over 20 years.

Both of you, Hayashibara -san, are in your 40s, and I can't really imagine how you interact with each other both at home and outside the home...

Uematsu: Both Sugaya and I basically create things on our own, so we inspire each other, and since we do different jobs, it starts with acknowledging each other's work.

Sugaya: That's absolutely true. We don't put each other down like we did when we were younger (laughs), and since we're in different industries, we can talk and share our work honestly, which makes for a really good relationship.

Hayashibara : I see. So it's a sense of camaraderie.


Whether it's Uematsu's " in-home " or "out-of-home" activities, we don't plan ahead; it's more like, "Let's grab a drink today," and that's a really important time for me.

Sugaya: When I get together with Uematsu-san and the other members, everyone is mature and there's no one trying to one-up each other, and it's easy for guys to talk frankly with each other, so I value that too.

What are your impressions of the pole hanger you used on the Hayashibara veranda?

Uematsu: These kinds of items are really useful outdoors. With this and an S-hook, you're invincible (laughs).

The Sugaya is easy to assemble and disassemble, and once you use it outdoors, it becomes an essential item.

Hayashibara : I'm in charge of bags, and I've been using this coat rack to hang the bags that I used to keep in my closet for storage.

Uematsu : I see. So it can be used at home too.

Sugaya , it's getting cooler, so shall we start grilling meat now?

Let's invite the Uematsu kids and order some pizza!