Hender Scheme Visualizes the Passage of Time Through Virtual Interiors for the Lexus LF-Z Electrified

The unveiling of the Lexus LF-Z Electrified concept car last month was more than just an introduction to a new chapter for the brand; it marked a perceptible shift in the automobile landscape as a whole, signaling a new era of luxury vehicles that cater to the lifestyle and values of today’s consumer. Even with the exciting forward motion indicated by the unveiling of the futuristic concept car, Lexus remains firmly rooted in its Japanese heritage, using it as a guiding principal as the carmaker continues to innovate.

As an homage to this, Japanese label Hender Scheme lent its distinctive take on craftsmanship to virtually reimagining the interior of the Lexus LF-Z Electrified. The project is an indication of Lexus’ out-of-the-box approach to car design, tapping into the minds of unexpected creatives to completely rethink the driving experience for the better. The result is an imaginative, streamlined execution that allows the user to be present in the moment while celebrating the past and anticipating the future.

Vegetable tanned leather is a unique material that changes over time, allowing the owner to “complete” a product through use. It’s a material that embodies the design concept of Hender Scheme and is a signature material for the brand.

Lexus and Hender Scheme’s shared place of origin is not all they have in common. Both entities are known for an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, materiality and detail. For Hender Scheme, this comes through in its recognizable use of un-dyed vegetable-tanned leather, which provides a signature color and smooth texture to the label’s footwear designs, and now, the interiors of the latest concept car from Lexus. What’s more, the choice of untreated material creates a beautiful patina as it changes color through usage, becoming unique to the owner.

For the interior, Hender Scheme has chosen to showcase smooth finished outer leather, which increases in luster as it’s used. The seats are crafted from supple, fine horse leather selected for its highly durable characteristics. Over time and with use, the smooth leather interior will evolve: colors will vary, textures will soften and a unique patina will develop, giving the car more depth.

It’s a fitting concept considering a Lexus guiding principal that states our machines are an extension of human intent, and the steadied wear of the material is a one-of-a-kind reflection of the combined experience of the car and its user. In that way, Hender Scheme’s take on the interiors of the vehicle visualize the passage of time and have a unique value for the rider — one that creates a personal connection to the machine that goes beyond the innovative functionality from Lexus.

Through the use of leather as a material, Hender Scheme respects and presents personal and subjective values that are different from social values. The owner and passengers are able to develop a personal, private connection with the vehicle as the leather changes with use.

Hender Scheme’s Lexus LF-Z Electrified interiors concept is part of a series from different creatives in the fashion and art space. Check out other virtual interiors created by designer Salehe Bembury and artist Ondrej Zunka. Head to the Lexus website to learn more about the LF-Z Electrified.