Ken Okuyama

Ken Okuyama is a highly regarded Japanese industrial designer, best known for his contributions to the automotive world, especially for his work at Pininfarina. Born in 1959, Okuyama graduated in 1986 from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. His early career saw him take up teaching roles at Tohoku University of Art and Design and the Art Center College of Design, where he eventually became the Chair of the Transportation Design Department from 2000 to 2004.

Before joining Pininfarina, Okuyama worked for General Motors and Porsche. Notably, he contributed to the design of the Porsche 911 (996) and Porsche Boxster, as well as the fourth-generation Chevrolet Camaro. In 2004, Okuyama was appointed Creative Director at Pininfarina, where he played an instrumental role in the design of several iconic Ferrari models, including the Ferrari Enzo, Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, Ferrari California, Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, and the Ferrari P4/5, a one-off model he supervised.

Okuyama’s influence extended beyond Ferrari. He also oversaw the design of the Maserati Birdcage 75th and Quattroporte V, as well as the Mitsubishi Colt CZC. His tenure at Pininfarina ended in 2006, when he left to establish his own design firm, Newton Design Lab.

In 2008, Okuyama unveiled his first concept car, the K.O. 7 Spider, at the Geneva Motor Show. The two-seater car, crafted with carbon fiber reinforced polymer and unpainted aluminum, was a unique design project. His collaboration with TAG Heuer was featured prominently, with the interior of the K.O. 7 inspired by the design of the TAG Heuer Grand Carrera watch. Following the concept car’s debut, Okuyama’s studio produced a limited run of 20 K.O. 7 Spiders in 2008, followed by 99 more in 2009 and 99 in 2010.

In 2016, Okuyama introduced the Kode 57, another limited-edition supercar that generated considerable buzz, with only five units produced. The Kode 57 was praised for its striking design, and Forbes Magazine called it a “breathtaking” supercar.

Throughout his career, Okuyama has consistently showcased his unique design philosophy, combining elegance, precision, and innovation across automotive, eyewear, and luxury products.