Airside was founded in 1998 by Alex Maclean, Nat Hunter and Fred Deakin. For over 14 years Airside led the UK creative scene in graphic design, illustration, animation and digital media, winning numerous awards including D&AD, Design Week Awards and BAFTAs. In 2012, the London studio closed to allow the three founders to focus on their individual activities. However, prior to this, Henki Leung, Airside's longest serving designer moved to Japan and established Airside Nippon in May 2011 together with Hiromi Tsuchiya, Airside's agent in Japan. After an exhilarating 13 years in Kabukicho, Shinjuku, award winning Airside Nippon relocated in 2024 to its new studio amidst the serene and picturesque forests of Karuizawa, Nagano. Here, we continue to proudly wave the Airside flag and build upon our legacy.

We collaborate with both innovative start-ups and esteemed companies with rich histories on a diverse array of projects. Our extensive portfolio encompasses a wide range of graphic design work, including logos, event visuals, character creation and product packaging. In addition, we specialise in creating animated content, such as corporate philosophies, service explainers, staff training videos to interactive public art, delivering dynamic visual solutions that engage and inspire.

Leveraging Henki's extensive and diverse experience in the UK and Japan, Airside Nippon's designs are both unique and innovative, effortlessly blending simplicity with sophistication, all while infusing a sense of human warmth and humour. Although the phrase 'design is communication' may be overused, it remains a core philosophy that we hold dear.

We welcome inquiries about new commissions and collaborations. Please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

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