Yukiko Bassett Okawa worked for eight years at bespoke shoemaker John Lobb i England. An experience that laid the foundation for his business today. His goal is to make shoes that customers will be able to wear for 30 years with proper repair and care.

In 2004 he moved back to Japan from the UK to start "Benchmade study", a shoemaking school. The following year he started his own bespoke shoe-brand, called Bench Made, in collaboration with Miyki Hundred Club in Ginza.
The brand is now based in Setagaya, Tokyo.