Background: 2020 Amendment to Japan’s Design Act and the Emergence of Spatial Design Protection
With the April 2020 enforcement of Japan’s revised Design Act, “interior designs” were formally recognized as registrable subject matter. This change marked a significant development in Japan’s design protection framework, particularly in addressing the long-standing gap surrounding the protection of spatial or environmental designs.
Prior to the amendment, the scope of design protection in Japan was limited to the “shape, patterns, or colors of articles”—essentially, tangible, movable products and their parts. As a result, businesses that invested in the cohesive design of spaces such as retail stores or offices found it difficult to protect those environments as part of their brand identity. The absence of a mechanism to register interior aesthetics left businesses vulnerable to imitation, with little legal recourse.
To resolve this, the revised law introduced Article 8-2, which expressly allows for the registration of “interior structures of shops, offices, or other similar facilities.” This enables the protection of spaces comprising multiple integrated components—such as furniture, walls, lighting, and flooring—when those elements collectively present a unified visual impression.
Core Examination Criteria for Interior Design Registration
For an interior design to qualify for protection under the revised Design Act, the following key criteria must be met:
- It must be an interior space within a facility.
The design must relate to an enclosed indoor area, bounded by elements such as floors, walls, and ceilings. Outdoor spaces are excluded from protection. - It must comprise multiple components.
Eligible designs must involve two or more elements—such as furniture, fixtures, built-in features, or digital displays—that contribute to the spatial configuration. - It must exhibit a unified aesthetic impression.
The space should demonstrate visual harmony in its layout, color scheme, and forms, so that the entire environment is perceived as a single cohesive design.
For example, a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant may combine counter design, seating, signage, and lighting to convey a unique brand identity. When these elements work together to produce a consistent visual experience, the overall interior can be registered as a protectable design. Likewise, a bookstore’s integration of shelving, lighting, and ceiling elements could support registration if the space presents a unified aesthetic.
Practical Considerations for Filing
When preparing an application for interior design registration, careful attention must be given to the visual materials submitted. Since interior designs are inherently three-dimensional, the drawings must clearly show the spatial relationships between elements. Perspective views—such as isometric or bird’s-eye perspectives—are typically essential.
Applicants should include views that show the floor, walls, and ceiling, and ensure the drawings capture the unity of the space. In the “Description of the Article to which the Design Pertains” section of the application, it is advisable to briefly and clearly describe each component’s role, its interaction with surrounding elements, and how they collectively contribute to the intended design concept.
Conclusion
Japan’s interior design registration system offers a valuable legal tool for protecting brand expression through spatial design. Businesses can now secure exclusive rights in the visual presentation of their commercial and public spaces, reinforcing brand identity and deterring imitators.
Since the revision took effect, a growing number of interior designs have successfully been registered. At Tsubame IP Law Firm (APA), we have extensive experience supporting clients in obtaining design protection for both buildings and interior spaces.
For tailored advice or assistance with your design strategy, please feel free to contact us.