On Creating KP-281U 美 — How KIO YAMATO Defines Beauty and Comfort in Eyewear

On Creating KP-281U 美 — How KIO YAMATO Defines Beauty and Comfort in Eyewear

When KIO YAMATO begins creating a frame like KP-281U, the starting point is rarely a product. It’s usually a conversation. About what beauty means. About how something should feel. About how it becomes part of everyday life.

For KP-281U, the discussion centered on beauty in transition. Moments that don’t last long, but stay with you. The sakura just before it opens. Light as it shifts and settles. These moments aren’t dramatic. They’re quiet, but complete. (On Creating KP-281U 美 — How KIO YAMATO Defines Beauty and Comfort in Eyewear)

At the same time, there was another question. How does beauty feel when worn?

For KIO YAMATO, comfort is not separate from beauty. If a frame looks beautiful but asks too much of the wearer, something is lost. Comfort allows beauty to remain present throughout the day. It lets the frame disappear, so the person wearing it can remain themselves. (On Creating KP-281U 美 — How KIO YAMATO Defines Beauty and Comfort in Eyewear)

As the frame took shape, these ideas were layered together. Color was considered not as a statement, but as atmosphere. Multiple tones were developed so each carried its own expression, while still belonging to the same story. Form was approached the same way. Balanced, familiar, and easy to live with.

This is how KP-281U came together.Not from a single inspiration, but from an ongoing discussion between beauty, comfort, and use.

For KIO YAMATO, that conversation never ends.