The first time I heard about this store was in a discursive design course where its infamous wall-mounted CD player and cardboard-housed speakers were the topic of discussion.
"Why do you guys think I am showing you these slides?" asked the prof.
And the answers came pouring in.
"They're made up of very little material."
"The speakers look like they're made of recycled paper."
"They're collapsible too, so they're easy to transport."
"The design is timeless so they'll keep their appeal over the years."
"The form and function seem well-integrated."
"The functionality is very intuitive. Pull the cord, and the CD starts playing."
"They're unbranded and beautifully designed."
A year or so later, I found myself vacationing in New York City and wandering the streets of Soho where I stumbled upon this store for the first time. Excitedly, I rushed to the door like a child dashing to unravel his presents on a Christmas morning. Sadly, it had closed fifteen minutes before and I was left standing in front, staring at the ghost of what would later become my favourite department store. It had to wait for another time, and perhaps another place.
It wasn’t until a few months ago, on a recent trip to its homeland, that I finally came face-to-face with Muji. On my first morning in Tokyo, jetlagged and excited by my surroundings, I found my way to the nearest one. This time I was too early. So I took refuge in a small café across the street and sat impatiently at the window, waiting for time to tick and tock, drinking coffee while keeping an eye out for the doors to open… for the ghost to come alive again. At ten o’clock sharp, the doors swooped open and a billow of brilliance filled the street. Enchanted, I raced back across but halted just before the entrance and took a minute to survey the settings. When I finally walked in, it was love at first sight.
Muji carries over seven thousand products, every one of which boasts minimalist design and promotes sustainable living. The quality of these products is unmatched and yet the prices are more than reasonable. That’s because they use recycled materials and keep waste to a minimum. In a country so infatuated with the art of packaging and presentation, this is a big step towards greenery. In addition, they employ modular pieces to make up various different products, which cuts down on production costs and ensures that the manufacturing is standardized, efficient, and environmentally friendly. You can find anything from furniture, to electronics, to personal care products, luggage, clothing, jewelry, watches, gifts, stationary products, kitchenware, and food! It truly is a one-stop shopping experience.
I am sad to say that Canada does not have a Muji (yet) and that the nearest one to Vancouver is in New York, but—in keeping with my ‘things to look forward to’ signature conclusions—I will be waiting for the day I see that store again. Another time, and perhaps another place.
