DAIZU - Key Persons
Fumiko brings a thoughtful, human-centered approach to residential design, blending beauty, functionality, and comfort through subtle yet impactful design decisions.
With over a decade of experience in Japan, she operated her own design studio in Tokyo, where she led more than 30 full-scale condominium renovation projects. Her work is known for its refined use of space and careful attention to how people live, move, and feel within their homes.
She has collaborated closely with private clients and local developers, especially in urban communities like Makuhari Baytown, to create living environments that are both efficient and emotionally resonant.
Now based in Los Angeles, Fumiko continues to draw on her Japanese design sensibilities-clean lines, spatial clarity, and purpose-driven layout-while integrating fresh inspiration from the diversity of American lifestyles.
Her cross-cultural design perspective allows her to create warm, grounded spaces that elevate the everyday and feel deeply personal to each client.
Blending imagination with grounded sensibility, Hanna designs spaces that not only meet expectations-but often exceed them in surprising ways. She considers how people move, feel, and interact within a space, always envisioning multiple scenarios to deliver designs that are both practical and delightfully unexpected.
Hanna studied foundational art and design at Ochanomizu School of Art in Tokyo before relocating to the U.S., where she earned her BFA in Architectural Interior Design from California State University, Long Beach. Since joining Daizu Inc. in 2011, she has worked across a wide spectrum of projects-from offices, retail, and residential to warehouse environments-taking on not only design but also client-facing roles such as sales and presentations. Her versatility and real-world sensibility make her a hybrid designer who can respond flexibly to complex client needs.
Prior to joining Daizu, she worked in warehousing and customer service in Japan, gaining hands-on experience that continues to inform her approach to warehouse and retail design. Her deep consideration of how people experience space enables her to propose solutions that are both human-centered and highly functional.
Hikaru is a calm yet curious and action-oriented professional who plays a key role in managing residential projects at Daizu Inc. With a background in sales and production management in the fashion industry, including running her own boutique, she brings a strong sense of coordination, communication, and adaptability to every project.
She joined Daizu in May 2019, drawn by the opportunity to apply her previous business and customer-facing experience to the world of architecture and spatial design. At Daizu, she serves as a primary point of contact for clients, while also overseeing project schedules, facilitating communication between design and construction teams, and supporting administrative and permitting processes.
With a well-balanced skill set, she handles everything from client relations and schedule coordination to cost management and English-language negotiations with ease. Her strength lies in bridging the many moving parts of a project-creating a sense of clarity and reassurance for everyone involved.
Nana is a designer at Daizu Inc., specializing in corporate office interiors with expertise in space planning, color coordination, furniture selection, and custom signage proposals. After earning her Associate of Science degree in Interior Design from Orange Coast College, she joined Daizu in 2015, following an internship that gave her a deep appreciation for the firm's warm, collaborative culture. Daizu became her first full-time professional experience, and she has now been with the team for nearly a decade.
Over the years, Nana has contributed to several high-profile projects-including the offices of SMBC MANUBANK and Square Enix-where she played a key role in layout development and finish selections that align with each client's functional needs and brand identity. She approaches every project with her guiding principle: "Never forget your beginner's mindset," maintaining a sincere and humble attitude while delivering thoughtful, polished design solutions.
Known within the firm as a "mood maker," Nana fosters a calm, encouraging energy on project teams and believes strongly in the power of teamwork. She strives to grow alongside her colleagues and hopes to always be someone who can offer advice and support when others need it most.
Outside of work, Nana enjoys practicing the Japanese tea ceremony and wearing kimono-finding peace and inspiration in these quiet rituals. She delights in coordinating kimono outfits and appreciates the beauty of stillness, even if sitting in seiza remains a challenge. Looking ahead, she is eager to explore residential design and expand her skills into new creative territories.
With a strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to maintaining internal harmony, Naoko plays a vital role at Daizu Inc. as the Finance & HR Manager. She focuses on building an environment where every team member can work with confidence and peace of mind.
Originally from Osaka, Naoko previously worked at the U.S. subsidiary of Obayashi Corporation, one of Japan's largest general contractors, where she gained hands-on experience in construction accounting. The precision and organizational knowledge she developed there now serve as a strong foundation for her work at Daizu.
In 2019, she joined Daizu Inc. during its transition from Key International, taking charge of internal operations including finance, HR, labor management, and benefits administration. She believes that by creating a smooth and supportive workplace internally, the company can deliver even higher-quality service to its clients.
Job Titles:
- Coordinator
- Project Administrator
This simple principle drives Naruki Nagata in his daily work at Daizu Inc., where he plays a behind-the-scenes role in keeping construction projects running smoothly and efficiently.
With a degree in architecture from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and a background in the solar energy and signage industries, Naruki brings both technical knowledge and hands-on experience to his role. At Daizu, he supports the construction team with permit coordination, documentation, and progress tracking, while also serving as a vital link between the architecture and accounting departments.
Nobu Soi - CEO, President
Nobu Soi founded Daizu Inc. with a clear mission: to design and build spaces that put clients first-always. He believes that the foundation of any successful business lies in earning trust, anticipating needs, and delivering solutions that truly serve the people behind each organization. For Nobu, great design isn't just about how a space looks-it's about how it works for those who use it every day.
After earning a degree in economics from Kyoto Sangyo University in Japan, Nobu began his career in the textile trading industry, gaining firsthand insight into global business. He later completed a master's degree in psychology at the City University of New York, further strengthening his people-centered approach to leadership. A solo journey around the world deepened his appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives-insights that continue to shape Daizu's work today.
Prior to founding Daizu, Nobu served as a partner at Key International, where he helped Japanese companies establish operations in the U.S. Today, he focuses on steering Daizu's strategic vision, ensuring every project reflects the company's core values: integrity, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to client success.
With a diverse background spanning architecture, art, and language, Riyo Namigata brings a thoughtful, cross-cultural lens to the spaces she helps shape. Born in Japan and raised in the U.S., she approaches each project with quiet focus, creativity, and a deep interest in how people live and interact with their environment.
Riyo graduated with Highest Honors in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley, and went on to complete her graduate studies at the University of Tokyo's Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, under Professor Hidetoshi Ohno. She spent the following years as a freelance graphic designer and translator while also pursuing an active career as an artist-creating works in public spaces, receiving artist grants, and being featured in media including newspapers, radio, and television. Her accolades include the Grand Prize at the Tori Art Awards (2013) and a feature on Yahoo! Japan Headline News (2014).
After focusing on parenting for several years, Riyo joined Daizu Inc. in 2025, drawn by the company's people-centered design philosophy and appreciation for diverse cultural perspectives.
Riyo looks forward to evolving her design approach from an art-focused perspective to one that more deeply supports everyday living.
Shirley is a designer who combines calm professionalism with a strong inner focus. She specializes in comprehensive interior architectural planning for commercial environments, with a particular strength in balancing the big picture with careful attention to detail.
Originally from Seoul, South Korea, she studied interior design at ICS College of Arts in Tokyo and began her career at Yasuo Kondo Design Office. She joined Daizu Inc. in 2019, where she currently leads exhibition booth design while continuing to work on retail environments and commercial interiors. Her designs are known for being both precise and purposeful-delivering solutions that are innovative yet grounded in client needs. In 2007, she was awarded the Bronze Prize at the Gyeonggi Architecture Awards for her work on the Icheon Marina Obstetrics & Gynecology Clinic project. At Daizu, she actively shares her experience with teammates and strives to be a valuable contributor to the team.
Shirley describes herself as "tender but solid," and her dedication to design is rooted in a desire to stay healthy and continue working in the field she loves. Outside of work, she enjoys caring for houseplants and spending time with her pets.
Shohei Kawanaka approaches architecture with a vision that bridges local communities and the global stage. From his early roots in Shimane and Tottori to his current research across the Asia-Pacific, he is rethinking how timber can shape a more sustainable future. For him, wood is more than a material-it is part of a larger flow that connects forests, economies, and the built environment.
In his doctoral research at the University of Tokyo, Shohei has developed a mathematical model that maps timber's journey from forest to building, measured across three dimensions: volume, economics, and environmental impact. This work informs his teaching as an Assistant Professor at Yonago National College of Technology, where he trains the next generation of architects to think critically about design and sustainability. He also serves as a Visiting Associate Professor at Shibaura Institute of Technology's Sustainable Architecture Center and as an advisor at K.I. Architects, supporting projects that strengthen regional design practices.
Shohei's portfolio spans both academic research and practical design. He has worked on community-rooted projects such as CLT-built tea houses and nurseries, while also conducting field studies on timber architecture in Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand. His efforts to promote the use of local timber and bring transparency to supply chains have gained attention from academic, government, and industry circles alike.
Looking ahead, he aims to build a network of researchers across the Asia-Pacific, sharing knowledge and practice to expand the role of timber in sustainable architecture worldwide.
Job Titles:
- Field Coordinator
- Project Administrator
Bringing a spirit of humility and a wide range of industry experience, Takeshi supports Daizu's construction team both in project administration and on-site coordination. As he grows into his role, he is also preparing to take on more responsibilities in sales, aiming to connect even more closely with clients.
Originally from Okinawa,Japan, Takeshi earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Before joining Daizu in 2024, he built a diverse professional background-including working as a tutor and serving in planning, production, sales, and import/export operations for a Japanese apparel trading company. His expertise in international commercial trade terms and his cross-cultural communication skills enable him to navigate complex projects with flexibility and care.
At Daizu, Takeshi works not only behind the scenes on documentation and contractor coordination but also directly supports activities on-site, providing a real-time perspective on construction operations. His field experience allows him to anticipate project needs and contribute to smoother execution. As he continues to expand his skill set, he remains committed to being a trusted partner for clients, contractors, and the internal team alike.
Job Titles:
- Principal, Construction Division
Ted Matsumoto oversees all construction operations at Daizu Inc., ensuring that each project is executed with technical precision and uncompromising quality. As the founder and president of Pinecones International, LLC-which became part of the Daizu Group in 2020-Ted brings more than 40 years of experience in design, construction, and consulting across a wide range of sectors, including commercial, residential, and industrial projects.
A graduate of California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) with a degree in Structural Engineering, Ted began his career at the U.S. subsidiary of Obayashi Corporation, one of Japan's largest global construction firms, where he led complex building projects across various disciplines. In 2003, he founded Pinecones International to provide clients with high-caliber architectural and construction solutions tailored to both Japanese and U.S. standards.
His deep knowledge of building codes, permitting systems, and site operations in both countries makes him an invaluable asset for Japanese companies expanding into the U.S. Since joining forces with Daizu, Ted has played a critical role in turning design concepts into reality-while mentoring the next generation of builders with his hands-on leadership and attention to detail. He is known for his belief that listening carefully to clients and exceeding their expectations through skilled execution is the cornerstone of great construction. Ted's disciplined project management and unwavering commitment to quality have earned him the trust of clients and partners alike.
Job Titles:
- General Manager in Hawaii
Yoko Tomii leads Daizu Inc.'s Hawaii office, where she supports a broad range of local and international clients-from office expansions for Japanese companies to residential coordination and lifestyle support. With a warm, sincere approach and a deep sense of responsibility, Yoko is known for building trust and delivering with unwavering energy.
Originally from Kobe, Japan, Yoko began her career at a major Japanese trading company before moving to New York in pursuit of new challenges. There, she worked in the furniture industry, managing sales for Japanese corporate clients and helping countless expatriates set up their lives through furniture rental and relocation support. She later gained further experience in commercial real estate and restaurant management, building a rich background across industries and cultures.
After 14 years in New York and a brief return to Japan, Yoko relocated to Hawaii in 2017. Drawing on her diverse experience and cross-cultural understanding, she brings thoughtful communication and flexible problem-solving to every project-always with honesty, empathy, and full commitment.
Job Titles:
- General Manager in Northern CA
With a well-rounded background in design, project coordination, and business development, Yoshi leads Daizu's Northern California operations as General Manager. He brings a designer's eye, a client-centered mindset, and a strong sense of responsibility to his role-bridging the gap between planning and execution while expanding Daizu's reach across the region and beyond.
Originally from Himeji, Japan, Yoshi earned his Bachelor of Architecture from Philadelphia University. He began his career as a designer in Los Angeles, gaining experience in commercial design and team collaboration. Since relocating to Northern California, he has taken on broader responsibilities, now overseeing sales, project oversight, and market development across multiple states.
Guided by a spirit of altruism, Yoshi strives to go beyond surface-level needs and uncover deeper challenges to deliver thoughtful, practical solutions. He believes that great service is about noticing the unspoken and responding with care-whether supporting clients or working alongside internal teams.
Yoshiko is a designer who brings a multi-dimensional approach to workplace and commercial interiors, always striving to deliver the "best of the best." She believes that great design isn't just about aesthetics, but about understanding how people interact with their environment and finding functional, inspiring solutions from every angle.
She holds a degree in Interior Architecture from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a degree in Sociology from Barat College. Her career spans both the U.S. and Japan, with projects for clients like Ootoya and Gallery de Pop in New York, and Tiffany & Co. and Michael Kors in Tokyo. In Japan, she worked with leading design firms including A-Factry and The Design Studio, where she developed her expertise in concept development, space planning, and client-centered design for hospitality and commercial projects.
Among her most recognized achievements is the GSK Japan headquarters, which received both the Creative Office Award and New Office Promotion Award at the 31st Nikkei New Office Awards. The project was also selected as a filming location for a nationally broadcast television drama.
Yoshiko is known for her integrity, clarity, and deep commitment to translating each client's vision into spaces that perform-visually, functionally, and culturally.
Yoshino brings a calm, thoughtful energy to her role as a designer at Daizu Inc. With a background in both residential and commercial design in Japan, she approaches each project with care, curiosity, and a genuine commitment to listening-whether to clients, teammates, or the space itself.
Before moving to the U.S. in 2022, Yoshino worked at atelier-style architecture firms and retail design companies in Tokyo, gaining hands-on experience across a wide range of project types. Her strengths include architectural planning, 3D image rendering, and coordination-skills she is now eager to apply in the U.S. market.
At Daizu, she currently supports the design team in an assistant capacity, contributing to project development with a positive attitude and detail-oriented mindset. Known for her steady, open approach, she values being present, adaptable, and always ready to help where needed.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending quiet time at the beach with her family, watching the sunset-a peaceful reminder of balance in a busy world.
With a background in interior design and a growing passion for construction, Yumi has transitioned from the world of concept to the world of execution. Today, she leads project management efforts in Daizu's construction division, where she oversees site coordination and client-facing operations with care and clarity.
She graduated from Woodbury University with a degree in Interior Architecture Design and began her career as a designer, working on commercial projects at Gilmore Associates and several Japan-affiliated companies in the U.S. After joining Daizu Inc. in 2022, she initially worked as a designer but gradually shifted her focus to project delivery-motivated by the satisfaction of seeing ideas come to life on-site.
She now serves as a key point of contact for both clients and subcontractors, coordinating schedules, resolving issues, and keeping everyone aligned throughout the process. Known for her attentive and thoughtful communication, she has earned the trust of clients and colleagues alike, and continues to expand her skills on the construction side of the business.