• News

The Art of Linen: Mihoko SASAKI’s Journey from Interior Design to Textile Excellence

• delicious Japan
• March 31, 2025

What motivated you to pursue this profession?

It was less a choice than a twist of fate. I entered the world of fabric later in life. Initially, my career was in architecture, working for department stores. I also gained experience as an interior coordinator, designing spaces for high-profile clients and luxury boutiques. I had always been confident in my sense of style, and my work in interior design garnered significant attention. While freelancing for department stores, a director from a specific company noticed my work. He insisted repeatedly, "You’re the only one who can do this. You must come to work with us, even for a short while. His persistence was so strong that I eventually relented and visited the company.

I went there intending to observe, but unexpectedly, I was thrust into an interview on the spot. Reluctantly, I agreed to a one-day-a-week commitment, thinking it would be manageable. However, as often happens, one day quickly turned into two, then three, and soon, I found myself working more days than I had anticipated. I realized that my role was to help make the company a significant player in its industry.

This company specializes in hotel linens — bed sheets, covers, bathrobes, towels, and more. Despite my confidence in my aesthetic skills, I knew little about fabric. However, I believed that anyone could fully immerse themselves in any field with the right motivation. Mastery of new knowledge doesn't take centuries; it only requires determination. So, with that mindset, I chose to completely abandon my 13-year career as an interior coordinator and leap into the fabric industry in my late 40s.

Although it may have started late, that’s how I found my way into the world of textiles. Looking back, I realize that my journey, encompassing various professions, has always been linked to lifestyle-related work.

What ignited your interest in linen?

When I first joined the company, I sought guidance from my seniors, but I quickly realized that not everything they taught me was infallible. So, I decided to rely on my own eyes and judgment. I visited factories and weaving mills and traveled across Europe — to France, Germany, Belgium, and the United Kingdom — to attend international fabric exhibitions and conduct market research. During this time, I began to reflect on what fabrics were truly essential to everyday life.

It was then that I encountered an extraordinary quality of linen, and I was deeply impressed. At that time, most of the linen available in Japan was thick and coarse, with rough threads. When I discovered this incredibly smooth and refined linen, I thought to myself, "If such exquisite fabric exists, there is no reason not to bring it to Japan." That was the first moment I realized the potential of linen.

What has influenced the person you are today?

For me, the greatest sense of fulfillment in life and work comes when I know I’ve been of service to someone. In other words, I find life dull if I’m not contributing in some way. I feel true joy when I know I have made a difference and brought happiness to someone else. Since entering the world of textiles, I have continually reflected on what I can contribute and what I should focus on. Above all, my desire has always been to bring joy to my customers. I believe it is this commitment to service and the pursuit of customer satisfaction that has shaped the person I am today.

Do you have a specific commitment or philosophy regarding your work?

Linen comes in various types and grades, from Japanese hemp and ramie to those found in countries like China and Lithuania. The quality of linen is greatly influenced by the environment in which it grows. We specifically use flax grown in Northern Europe, which is quite different from the coarser linen used for kitchen towels, mats, or aprons. Our linen is finer and exceptionally delicate, providing a smooth feel that doesn’t scratch or irritate the skin. As it is washed, it becomes even softer and more refined.

Our linen pajamas, for example, may appear thin at first glance, but they are surprisingly warm. What distinguishes us is our commitment to using no chemicals in our products, ensuring they are safe and gentle for the skin. I want our customers to experience the comfort and luxury that comes with the high-quality linen we provide.

Additionally, because our products are premium, I ensure to personally experience them first to confirm they meet the highest standards. I share them with our customers only when I am convinced of their quality. I aim to provide something truly beneficial for the skin, bringing joy and satisfaction to those who use it.

What is the source of your creativity?

My creativity arises from considering what our customers truly need. When a customer makes a request, I aim to propose something that exceeds their expectations. At the core of my work is a desire to continuously create exceptional products. It all comes down to this: a relentless drive to produce something great, time and again.

What do you want your customers to experience through your products?

Even amidst their busy lives, I hope our customers can enjoy a healthy and stylish lifestyle every day. I want them to transform their daily routines into something fashionable yet comfortable, and I consider how best to create that experience for them.

Take, for instance, our Grand Fond Blanc bed linen. Personally, I believe it’s more soothing to stretch out on a bed than to sink into a sofa. When we stay at a hotel, most people instinctively gravitate toward the bed rather than the sofa. This is because our bodies naturally seek relaxation. However, the bed isn't just for sleeping. I want people to feel comfortable enough to prop their feet up, use pillows as backrests, read a book, or scroll through their smartphones—just unwind and relax.

Moreover, it’s important to consider the layout of a room as well. Placing a TV in the right spot and carefully curating the space to make it more inviting and comfortable are key. I want customers to create bedrooms where they can truly feel at ease, with every corner contributing to a sense of relaxation and enjoyment.

What brings you joy and happiness in this work?

The greatest joy for me comes from hearing the satisfaction of our customers. Many customers struggle to find a pillow that suits their needs. Initially, we only made pillowcases, but I realized that if the pillow itself wasn’t right, it was all for nothing. So, I traveled to department stores across Japan and even to Europe to research different types of pillows. Through trial and error, I created our original pillow from scratch, carefully considering what would be most beneficial.

When a customer purchases one of our products and later tells me how wonderful it is, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment. It reassures me that I’ve made the right decision and that I’ve truly been able to help someone. That’s when I know all the effort was worth it.

What are your plans for the future?

Looking ahead, I’m considering expanding our operations not only within Japan but also exporting our products abroad. If we take that step, I believe towels would be the ideal product to introduce to international markets.

Are there any products you would particularly recommend?

My top recommendation is our bed linen. In today’s society, we push ourselves hard every day, working tirelessly and then returning home to sleep in our beds. As you know, sleep is incredibly important. It’s during sleep that old cells are replaced with new ones after we’ve perspired and exerted ourselves throughout the day. The quality of what we touch while we sleep can make a significant difference in maintaining youthfulness. Linen bedding is exceptional because it absorbs sweat quickly, preventing dampness and drying fast. This means bacteria are less likely to thrive, and odors are kept at bay. It’s also beneficial when you're unwell, sweating from a cold, or even for those with conditions like eczema or asthma.

Moreover, when you lie down on a linen bed, it gently envelops your body, helping to prevent shoulder pain and the decline in sleep quality that comes with age. The experience is far superior to sleeping on cheaper cotton or polyester. In fact, even if you sleep in just your underwear, linen offers a remarkably comfortable experience.

Another product I highly recommend is our Made-in-Japan linen towels. I selected the finest flax fibers from numerous varieties to create them. Unlike most linen towels, our Grand Fond Blanc towels are woven to achieve an airy texture, allowing them to absorb moisture quickly and dry rapidly. They are incredibly hygienic, making them perfect for washing babies. The more you wash them, the softer they become, ensuring they last for years. I would strongly recommend these towels to customers overseas.

Fashionable clothing and bags hold true significance only when complemented by good health. In the long run, I encourage you to invest in your well-being with our Grand Fond Blanc bed linens, pillows, and towels.