ATELIER INTRODUCTION
Since its establishment in 2010, our journey of bespoke shoemaking, one pair at a time, has been passed on to a new atelier. By reviewing our production environment and the quality of our space, we aim for even more precise shoemaking. We propose a pair of shoes born from dialogue and handcraft in a tranquil setting.
【Chapter 1: From the 2010 opening to the current location. Deepening the production environment】
In December 2023, Yuki Shirahama Bottier relocated its base from Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City, to its current location in Yamashina Ward.
Since our establishment in 2010, we have reviewed our base to further enhance the precision of our shoemaking, which we have built up one pair at a time as bespoke shoemakers.
Behind this move is the ever-increasing number of shoe lasts created with each new pair of shoes. The shoe last, crafted to fit each individual's foot, is the foundation of bespoke shoemaking, and their accumulation is the very essence of our journey. However, storing them required a considerable amount of space, and our previous workshop was becoming inadequate. Given this situation, we chose this location to secure a suitable environment for both storage and production. Even after the relocation, the number of lasts continues to grow, and as of 2026, the shelves are already becoming full...
When relocating the atelier, the quality of the production environment, not just the size of the space, became a crucial factor.
This location, with mountains in the surroundings, is blessed with an unobstructed expanse of sky and stable natural light.
We believe that accurately perceiving the colors of natural leather under daylight and performing intricate handwork consistently are indispensable elements that determine the perfection of each pair of shoes.
Another reason for choosing this location is that, while being easily accessible from the central areas of Kyoto and Osaka, it allows us to focus on shoemaking in a calm environment.
【Chapter 2: 1F Atelier ― The design of the ironworker and the craftsmanship of two artisans】
The new workshop is a place where an ironworker once practiced their craft. The honest ironwork remaining in the stairs, skirting boards, and lighting fixtures resonates with our shoemaking. We hope visitors will notice the ironworker's creations remaining throughout the atelier.
The first floor is dedicated to the production space, and the second floor to the salon space, clearly separating their roles.
In the production space, our representative, Shirahama, and artisan Murayoshi are engaged in the actual work.
The shoe lasts on the shelves are not used just once. We receive repeat orders from the same customers, and the sole is attached repeatedly. Each time, nail marks are etched into the bottom of the last.
The vast collection of lasts created thus far is stored on shoe last shelves that surround the walls of the sole-attaching room. This represents the trajectory of continuously engaging with each customer since our establishment in 2010, and it is the accumulation of our experience itself.
Within the atelier, we also store the measurement data and production records of all customers for whom we have made shoes. Even for specific foot problems such as bunions or flat feet, we produce shoes with appropriate measurements based on accumulated data and experience.
On the walls around the lasting workbench, numerous tools used in each process are neatly arranged. These carefully selected tools are not merely instruments but an "extension of the hand" that supports years of experience and intuition.
We have inherited old tools from individuals such as the late Şükrü Sensözlü during our apprenticeship at Altan Bottier, and we also continuously maintain and carefully use tools found at antique markets.
Furthermore, in the new workshop, we have established a dedicated room for leather storage. Materials collected from around the world over many years are managed in an environment with appropriate humidity. Customers visiting our atelier can see these leathers in their uncut, large sheet form.
While the production space is not vast, by meticulously designing the workflow, all processes are continuously performed without waste. Based on this accumulation, we strive daily to enhance the perfection of each pair of shoes.
【Chapter 3: 2F Salon ― Bespoke shoes born from dialogue, and AGOL】
The second floor is a dedicated salon for customer dialogues, measurements, fittings, and trial fittings. The reason we operate strictly by appointment is to allow our artisans to directly hear customer requests and accurately share the image of their ideal shoes.
In a space where natural light streams through the windows, you can pick up and examine carefully selected leather samples from all over the world while considering designs and specifications.
Additionally, in the salon, you can see actual products from our workshop's new line, "AGOL."
AGOL is a line reconstructed to suit modern styles, based on 15 years of bespoke shoemaking experience since 2010 and experience with sports shoe manufacturers.
You can also try them on, allowing you to choose while checking the comfort.
【Chapter 4: Access ― Nagitsuji Subway Station and private parking】
The new atelier is located within a 10-minute walk from Nagitsuji Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line. It is also directly accessible by subway from central Kyoto (Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae, Karasuma Oike, etc.).
Furthermore, for customers arriving by car, we have provided one private parking space on the premises. Whether by public transportation or private car, we have created an environment where you can step away from your daily routine and directly experience the shoemaking process.
Fifteen years have passed since our establishment in 2010. With our relocation and website renewal, our shoemaking is moving to the next stage. We will diligently continue each step of the process from this location to deliver shoes that become practical partners supporting our customers' journeys.
If you would like to see more details about our craftsmanship, please visit "Craftsmanship."
Written by
Yuki Shirahama Bottier
Yuki Shirahama
Asami Murayoshi