MUTEFounded in 2008, MUTE was started by Kenji Ito and Takahiro Umino, both of whom are graduates of the Kuwasawa Design School. Not limited to the fields of product, space, and graphic design, their work is guided by a ‘total’ approach that encompasses creative direction to design. Brands they have worked with include col., MONOPURI / PANAMA, and tempo / circle waltz, as well as serving on the advisory board of Ishinomaki Laboratory.