Lapstone & Hammer's newest brand really needs no introduction, as the Tokyo-based NEIGHBORHOOD has been a cornerstone of the Japanese streetwear scene since their founding in 1994. NEIGHBORHOOD is the brainchild of Shinsuke Takizawa, who created the brand to fulfill his need for high quality, technical motorcycle apparel. Building on that foundation, Takizawa drew from a diverse pool of Americana influences ranging from military and workwear, to punk rock and heavy metal, to Native American and outdoor themes to create a totally distinct aesthetic in Japanese fashion.

Along with NIGO, Jun Takahashi and a few other shops located in a small backstreet section of Tokyo called Urahara, Takizawa is credited with pioneering modern Japanese streetwear culture. NEIGHBORHOOD was named in tribute to the actual "neighborhood" that fostered this creative explosion from the people who would go on to form such brands as Undercover, A Bathing Ape, WTAPS and vivsvim among others in what has become known as the Urahara Movement. Pulling from aspects of American culture that were virtually unknown to the youth of Japan at the time, Takizawa's designs were radically different than anything else out there, and set the tone for the future of the brand, and streetwear in general.

NEIGHBORHOOD continues their dominance over the streetwear scene today, producing a heady mix of apparel, accessories, home goods and outdoor supplies that firmly keep the brand as relevant as it has ever been. We are thrilled to finally welcome NEIGHBORHOOD to Lapstone & Hammer. Shop our selections from their Spring & Summer 2020 collection here.

Photos by Evan Kaucher