With a refined eye shaped by the traditions of Ikebana, Hiroto Inoue of Japan brings a quiet, contemplative elegance to the world of floral design. His work balances form and emptiness with intention, using authentic Japanese materials and sustainable practices to create arrangements that are both grounded and poetic. Rooted in simplicity and guided by intuition, Hiroto’s artistry invites the viewer into a space of subtle beauty and thoughtful expression.

‘My work is rooted in the quiet, deliberate discipline of ikebana. Within my ikebana-style flower arrangements, I seek balance and space – between form and emptiness, stillness, and movement. Many of the materials I choose come from Japan. They are authentic and carry with them a sense of place, of history.’

‘Inspiration can come from anywhere. Flowers, materials, shapes, interior spaces, et cetera inspire me. An idea begins small – almost invisible at first. A curve. A gap. A gesture. A story always starts with a small idea. I build from there, letting the composition unfold naturally. When a form is right, you can feel it.’

‘I choose materials that are readily available. Sustainability is not something separate from design – it is part of the thinking from the beginning. I reduce waste, use eco-friendly Oasis, and avoid excessive packaging. These are simple choices, but they matter.’

‘When I think about what I am most proud of, my answer is very simple: being able to participate in the World Cup. That alone is enough.’

‘I am very pleased to be able to take part in a competition in Europe, the home of floral design. I have the greatest respect for European floral designers - they are always on the cutting edge.’

‘If a designer is enjoying themselves, the flowers will bloom vividly and beautifully. That is the most important thing. The role of the floral designer is not to control the flowers, but to let them be what they are – beautiful.’