I am the 'Best of Brooklyn' guide book Vol.2. It doesn't matter where I'm sent, I'm gonna always be from Brooklyn.

Curator's Notes

Whether in Japan or in our very own New York backyard, there is no one we trust more in terms of great recommendations than our writer and contributor, Aya Nihei. This book represents a collection of Aya's "most beloved places and encounters" in Brooklyn. In her ongoing series, you can expect to find reviews about a wide variety of things, including the best winery, seafood, brunch, jewelry, and bakery. Best of Brooklyn Vol. 1 can be found here and Vol. 3 here.

'Best of Brooklyn' was curated by Angélique Chmielewski and Stevenson Aung

Author

Aya Nihei

Specifications

Dimensions:
4” (w) x 6” (l)  or 101mm (w) x 152mm (l)

Weight:
2 oz or 57 g

Details

Printed in Japan
Art Direction and Design: Tetsuya Yuasa colonbooks
Illustration: Kahoko Sodeyama
Vol. 2 features a collection of thirty locations
Compact, travel-sized

Nalata Nalata is founded on the belief that purchasing and learning about the product should go hand-in-hand. We believe in the transparency of design process and strive to showcase the people and stories behind our products. 

Nalata Nalata

Best Of Brooklyn - Vol. 2

Title

Home & Furniture

I am a Kami mug. I am hand-crafted from the rare Castor Aralia tree so I like to think I’m special. My subtle glow illuminates the grain that makes me truly one-of-a-kind.

Curator's Notes

Warm, earthy and natural. These artisanal wooden mugs have a thin, elegant feel with the durability of a wooden vessel. Distinctive on its own or mixed in with everyday wares for a natural touch.

Kami is a series of wooden drinking vessels and tableware made by master woodworker Takahashi Kougei from Hokkaido, Japan. Each of the pieces in the collection is handcrafted from Sen (castor aralia) trees using highly sophisticated woodturning techniques passed down for generations. The name Kami, means “paper” in Japanese in reference to the thin wall thickness and white tone of the wood.

Kami Mug was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Takahashi Kougei

Designer: Oji Masanori

Specifications

Dimensions:
3.25” (w) x 4.25” (l) x 3” (h) or 83mm (w) x 108mm (l) x 78mm (h)

Weight:
0.125 lbs or 0.06 kg

Materials:
Castor Aralia (Sen Wood)

Details

Made in Japan
Walls are approximately 2mm thick
Can be used for warm and cool drinks
Slight heat transfer occurs when used for hot liquids
Hand washing is recommended
Food safe coating

Kami Mug

Coffee Mugs

I am a Small Siwa Black Clutch Bag. I'm happy to hold your things with great strength and care. I believe that they're well worth the paper I'm printed on.

Curator's Notes

For all those years I brought a lunch bag to school, I never would've thought it could look so cool. Siwa combines innovative material with traditional techniques to create bags that age beautifully over time. These bags are made of recycled fibers using the washi-suki paper manufacturing method, resulting in a durable and water-resistant material. Continued use of the bag creates creases that develop a leather-like look and feel over time. The small size is ideal for lunches, the wide shape is a good size for a laptop and work documents, and the large bag has a generous capacity for bringing home groceries.

Siwa Clutch Bag was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Onao Co.

Designer: Naoto Fukasawa

Specifications

Dimensions:

4.7" (w) x 7.9" (l) x 13.2" (h) or

120mm (w) x 200mm (l) x 335mm (h)

Weight:
2 oz or 50 g

Materials:
Naoron Paper

Details

Made in Japan
Naoron is a strong and highly water resistant paper made from recycled PET fibers, wood pulp and polyolefin.
Created using the washi-suki paper manufacturing method
Roll top with two snap closure buttons

Surface is naturally creased and will obtain more creases with time and use
Ironing not recommended

Machine washing or drying is not recommended
If cleaning is needed, we recommend using a damp cloth to spot clean and dry thoroughly afterwards
Storing wet objects inside for long periods of time is not recommended

Siwa Black Clutch Bag - Small

I am a Ceramic Pitcher. Would you like a glass of water? This is going to be a long pitch.

Curator's Notes

The details like the rolled edge on the angular handle make this pitcher look like modern enamelware but it is actually ceramic, which gives it much more warmth. The stark white glaze is a matte finish that absorbs shadows beautifully, especially where the contour of the vessel meets the spout. All the shapes that intersect such as the circular base that seamlessly flows into a teardrop shaped opening are mesmerizing. Use it for cold water, fresh juice or iced coffee in the morning.

Pitcher was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions: 5.0” (w) x 6.5” (l) x 6.5" (h) or 12.7cm (w) x 16.5cm (l) x 16.5cm (h)

Weight: 1 lb or 0.5 kg

Materials: Ceramic

Details

Handcrafted in Tajimi, Japan
Interior and exterior is matte white glazed
Handwash
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have variations
Do not dishwash
Do not microwave

Pitcher (out Of Stock)

Pitchers & Jugs

I am an Embroidered Wink Handkerchief Cloth. You winking at me or is that the sniffles I see?

Curator's Notes

Multipurpose (super cute) cloths to carry around your pocket for covering up coughs and sniffles or wiping spills and crumbs. The motifs are drawn by Tokyo-based illustrator Mariko Okumura and embroidered on handmade cloth. They evoke a ton of personality making special gifts for a significant friend - a sweet wink especially for your significant other.

Embroidered Handkerchief Cloth was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mitsou

Designer: Mariko Okumura

Specifications

Dimensions:
10” (w) x 10” (l) or 25.4cm (w) x 25.4cm (l)

Weight:
1.5 oz or 43 g

Materials: 70% organic linen, 30% organic cotton

Details

Handmade in Japan
Made with organic cloth
Thick mesh gauze weave
Edges are whipstitched

Rounded corners

Machine wash
Lay flat to dry

Embroidered Handkerchief Cloth - Wink

I am a Soap Dish. In my den, slippery soaps are under control with nowhere to go but into your hands and back to their home.

Curator's Notes

The perfect bathroom accessory to help stay organized, after all everything needs its place, including soap! Whether nearby a washbasin or a bathtub, this wood soap dish brings the joy of nature into an interior space. Mildew resistant, the Azmaya soap dish can retain regular bars of soap or hold other bathroom objects like toothbrushes, combs and hair products.

Soap Dish was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Azmaya

Specifications

Dimensions: 4.4” (w) x 11.9” (l) x 1.6” (h) or 111mm (w) x 302mm (l) x 40mm (h)

Weight: 6.10 oz or 0.17 kg

Materials: Hinoki

Details

Made in Japan
Built entirely with wood joinery methods
Azmaya logo branded on bottom of soap dish
Suitable for approximately the equivalent of two bars of soap
Hinoki is naturally mould and mildew resistant

Soap Dish

Soap Dishes

I am SKURO Koshihikari White Rice. Don’t throw me at a wedding that would be a waste. Savour me for my plumpness and super good taste.

Curator's Notes

I eat rice almost everyday so quality rice is important to me and I like knowing where my rice is from. It took me a really long time to taste the difference in rice grains from different regions but just like with coffee and many things, one type of rice is not the same as another.
A popular type of rice in Japan is called ‘Koshihikari’. It gained popularity as people became more interested in organic and healthy food, especially in Tokyo. This rice grain is fragrant, large, round and glistens. It is a bit sticky when cooked and the grains have a plump appearance. Yoshiki Tsukamoto of SKLO - who also designs light bulbs and has a love of antiques, go figure - owns a small family-run rice farm and produces this particular type of rice under the name SKURO. The farm uses no agricultural chemicals and only organic fertilizer. I tried all their varieties and it’s super safe to say that if there were such an award, SKURO rice would win grain of the year in my books.
If you want to take it all the way with fancy rice, try adding one teaspoon of ‘Kuromai Black Rice’ to every 200g of ‘Koshihikari White Rice’. This will turn your rice pale purple (and extra festive!) - usually reserved for special celebrations in Japan.

SKURO Koshihikari White Rice was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Sklo

Specifications

Dimensions:
2.3” (w) x 3.4” (l) x 7.0” (h) or 70mm (w) x 95mm (l) x 178mm (h)

Weight:

21 oz or 600 g

Materials:
100% Rice

Details

Produced on a farm outside of Kanazawa, Japan
White rice grains of the ‘Koshihikari’ variety
Each bag contains 600g of rice grains
Approximately 5 cups
Made on a small family-run farm

No agricultural chemicals

Only organic fertilizer used during farming

Soak brown rice for at least 15 minutes prior to cooking

Cook rice with water at a 1:2 ratio for best results

Cook as you normally would cook white rice in either a rice cooker or stovetop

Can be used for porridges or as a side to a variety of dishes like stew or curry

Skuro Rice - Koshihikari White

We are Bean Dishes. We’re small things in a big world trying to find something to hold onto.

Curator's Notes

These dishes offer a playful twist on serve-ware with their fun shapes and subtle textured surfaces. Use them to hold condiments and an assortment of pickled bites at the dinner table or to hold small precious objects.

Bean Dishes were curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Azmaya

Specifications

Dimensions:
Approximate: 3.3” (w) x 3.3” (l) x 0.8” (h) or 83mm (w) x 83mm (l) x 19mm (h)

Weight:
Approximate: 1.8 oz or 28 g

Materials: Stoneware

Details

Made in Japan
Faint green tint exists in the semi-vitreous glaze

Each dish has a subtle rough texture of stoneware

Bean Dishes

I am a Flower Frog Holder. I’m not the kind of frog that hops. I’m the kind that holds flowers in a vase to prevent them from going flop.

Curator's Notes

I had no idea what a “frog” was in the world of flowers until a friend who practices Ikebana, the Japanese art of floral arranging, enlightened me. Frogs are small disks that sit at the bottom of a vase to help hold flowers in place. Most frogs are pretty unappealing with spiky pins, strategically hidden with flowers and leaves. When I found these frogs I liked the idea that they were pretty enough to sit in a transparent glass vase without needing to be covered. This idea alone enabled me to discover a whole new method of flower arranging. They can transform any regular vessel laying around the house into a functional vase in an instant - the best part!

Flower Frog Holder was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kohchosai Kosuga

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.5” (w) x 1.5” (l) x 0.8" (h) or 3.1cm (w) x 3.8cm (l) x 2.0cm (h)

Weight: 2 oz or 57 g

Materials: Bamboo charcoal, Resin

Details

Handmade in Kyoto, Japan
Sold individually
Each holder has six slots for inserting flowers
Water proof
Heavyweight

Flower Frog Holder

I am a medium Shaker Box. My creator shook things up a bit, didn’t he?

Curator's Notes

The construction of these oval shaker style boxes is incredible! They feature the same swallowtail projections as traditional shaker boxes but instead of a wood construction these are made of natural vegetable tanned leather. In the past they were often used to store dry pantry items like flour, sugar or spices but these versions by Hender Scheme are so beautiful we can see them being used as decorative objects, either stacked or individually. And at this price point, the only thing we suggest is storing cherished mementos instead of flour!

Shaker Box was curated by Daniel Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hender Scheme

Designer: Ryo Kashiwazaki

Specifications

Dimensions:
7.9” (w) x 11” (l) x 4.8" (h) or 200mm (w) x 279mm (l) x 121mm (h)

Weight:
16 oz or 442 g

Materials:
Cow Leather

Details

Made in Japan
Leather is bent and molded into shape using features found in traditional shaker style boxes
Top stitched on edges with thick white waxed leather thread
Used to store dry items
Debossed Hender Scheme logo on bottom of box
Small scratches and imperfections can be expected from the raw cow hide
The leather will naturally develop a patina over time and showcase unique traces of everyday use

Shaker Box - Medium

I am a Square Washi Paper Card. The square root of me is tree.

Curator's Notes

A unique card with distinct indigo dyed patterns is the perfect handmade touch to send along with greetings. We use gel pens to write on these cards because heavy ink pens tend to soak through. They don’t come with envelopes, but sometimes envelopes aren't needed anyway! I especially love the edges, how they are uneven and showcase the handmade nature of the handmade paper making process. It’s so interesting to see all the paper fibers and the use of different colored fibers to create the patterns. See all patterns here.

Washi Paper Card was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Chiaki Morita

Designer: Chiaki Morita

Specifications

Dimensions:
4” (w) x 6” (l) or 102mm (w) x 152mm (l)

Weight:
0.1 oz or 3 g

Materials:
Washi paper

Details

Made in Japan
The card has indigo dyed fibers embedded into plain white fibers to create a pattern
Back is blank (all white)
The edges of the cards are irregular
Each card is handmade and may feature irregularities in indigo colour and slight variations in pattern
Does not include envelope
See all patterns here

Washi Paper Card - Squares

I am a Nalata Nalata Gift Card. Everyone rejoice! Now we all have a choice!

Curator's Notes

Want to give someone a nice addition for their home, but torn between a few items? Let them decide what will integrate best! Gift Cards are delivered in small boxes wrapped with our specialty handmade paper. Personalized Gift Notes can be added upon checkout. If you would like a gift card emailed digitally to your recipient instead, please request the option by emailing us at 

Gift Card is brought to you by Nalata Nalata

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.4” (w) x 2.1” (l) or 86mm (w) x 54mm (l)

Weight: 1.0 oz or 28 g

Details

Gift cards can be redeemed online or in store
Our Gift Cards have no additional processing fees
Gift Card values that are not found in the increments shown here can be made available upon request - email us at to specify a specific amount
Personalized Gift Notes can be included upon check out

Gift Card

Size

I am a Tsurukubi Chiisaki-Hanaire Vase. I love all the guests that occupy my space. Although they are fleeting, their temporary presence is always appreciated.

Curator's Notes

In the art of Japanese flower arrangement, vases are specifically chosen to enhance the flowers in which they hold. We love how these vases are miniature interpretations of 6 classical Japanese vessels, allowing many to appreciate seasonal flowers with less commitment! Collect all six and the arrangements are endless! These vases are not waterproof and therefore should not be filled with water. They are designed in a way to appreciate the fleeting beauty of a single sprig or small berry-bearing twig. All six shapes available here.

Tsurukubi Chiisaki-Hanaire Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Akarino-Tane

Designer: Hiroyuki Inoue

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.4” (dia) x 2.2” (h), 0.2" (vent) or 35mm (dia) x 55mm (h), 5.0mm (vent)

Weight: 1.5 oz or 43 gr

Materials: Maple

Details

Handmade in Hokkaido, Japan
Urethane finish
Do not pour water inside
Vases are not waterproof
All six shapes available here

Chiisaki Hanaire Mini Vase - Tsurukubi

Vases

I am an Embroidered Friends Handkerchief Cloth. I like your outfit, let’s be friends. When you’ll need a cloth I’ll have one to lend.

Curator's Notes

Multipurpose (super cute) cloths to carry around your pocket for covering up coughs and sniffles or wiping spills and crumbs. The motifs are drawn by Tokyo-based illustrator Mariko Okumura and embroidered on handmade cloth. They evoke a ton of personality making special gifts for a significant friend - this one goes to your best friend!

Embroidered Handkerchief Cloth was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mitsou

Designer: Mariko Okumura

Specifications

Dimensions:
10” (w) x 10” (l) or 25.4cm (w) x 25.4cm (l)

Weight:
1.5 oz or 43 g

Materials: 70% organic linen, 30% organic cotton

Details

Handmade in Japan
Made with organic cloth
Thick mesh gauze weave
Edges are whipstitched

Rounded corners

Machine wash
Lay flat to dry

Embroidered Handkerchief Cloth - Friends

I am a Wash Cloth. Put some soap in me and my scrubbing powers will leave you feeling refreshingly clean. Lather up!

Curator's Notes

Knitted with natural linen fibers without any dyes or added chemicals, this wash cloth is great for sensitive skin. Add bar soap into the bag and use in the bath as a gentle exfoliating cloth. Great for traveling as a convenient bar soap carrier and scrubbing cloth in one.

Wash Cloth was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Yumiko Sekine

Designer: Fog Linen

Specifications

Dimensions: Approximately 8" (l) x 6.5" (w)

Weight: 0.20 lbs or 0.09 kg

Materials: Linen

Details

Made in Lithuania
100% Linen
Fully-fashioned hand knit
Knitted loop incorporated for hanging
Machine wash and dry

Knitted Wash Cloth

Tea Towels

I am the book 'Jiki-Fu - A Japanese Aesthetics of Taste'. If you’re curious about washoku, I’ll give you some food for thought.

Curator's Notes

Published by the University of Tokyo Press, 'Jiki-fu' is Simplicity designer Shinichiro Ogata’s study on washoku, or Japanese cuisine. Washoku, which was recently registered for the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritages Program, is renowned for its transient beauty and use of natural ingredients, refined techniques and spatial sense. In this book, Ogata-san looks at the modern and innovative, yet highly traditional, aesthetic of washoku. 'Jiki-fu' is printed in Japanese and English and features beautiful photographs of Japanese cuisine, its ingredients and tableware.

'Jiki-fu - A Japanese Aesthetics of Taste' was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Author: Shinichiro Ogata

Specifications

Dimensions:
8.3" (w) x 11.6"(l) x 1.0" (h) or 21.1cm (w) x 29.5cm (l) x 2.5cm (h)

Weight:
2.4 lb or 1.1 kg

Materials:
Paper

Details

Made in Japan
Has a thick cardboard hardcover and bound red cloth bookmark

160 pages
Written and curated by Shinichiro Ogata, founder of Simplicity

Jiki-fu - A Japanese Aesthetics Of Taste

I am a Sansa Stool. Trio, triad, triplicate... However you want to call it, we stand as three, strong and united.

Curator's Notes

The true genius of the Sansa stool is in the joinery. The three components unite at the center of the chair generating a dip that’s comfortable to sit on. It sounds simple but the wood joinery is carefully constructed without right angles in order for the intersection to occur in such a seamless manner. BTW, "San" in Japanese means "Three".

Sansa Stool was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Miyazaki Chair Factory

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:
16.1” (w) x 16.3” (l) x 16.3" (h) or 41cm (w) x 41.5cm (l) x41.5cm (h)

Weight:
7.0 lb or 3.2 kg

Materials:
Oak wood (also available in Walnut, Cherry and Maple wood).

Details

Made in Japan
Image featured is Oak wood
The stool is also available in Walnut, Maple and Cherry wood. Please email us at to specify your chosen wood type
Made to order. Approximately 3 - 4 months
Made of solid wood

Sansa Stool

Stools

I am a Gray Glass Peck Jug. Give me a peck and I’ll pour my heart out.

Curator's Notes

Handmade by Kanazawa based glass studio, factory zoomer. These peck jugs embrace founder Kazumi Tsuji's characteristics in glass blowing with the playful touch of colored glass, setting it apart from the expected.

Peck Jug was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: factory zoomer

Designer: Kazumi Tsuji

Specifications

Dimensions:
Approximately: 4" (w) x 4.5" (l) x 8" (h)  or 101.6 mm (w) x 114.3mm (l) x 203.2mm (h)

Weight:
Approximately: 1 lb or  454g

Materials: Glass

Details

Handmade in Kanazawa, Japan
Mouth-blown
Each glass has handmade characteristics that are unique. Slight variations in form, pattern and opacity may occur, including natural irregularities in the glass
Hand wash
We do not recommend holding hot liquids in this piece

Peck Jug - Gray (out Of Stock)

I am a Yugami Bowl. You got me? I got you!

Curator's Notes

Yugami in Japanese means asymmetrical, and the forms of these bowls are enchantingly imperfect. Tinware is often alloyed with other metals, but these bowls are made of pure tin in Takaoka City, by craftsmen dedicated to the creation of high-quality cast metal objects. Tin is both antimicrobial and tarnish-resistant, so it’s highly functional and durable tableware. One trick for serving with tinware is to chill the piece in the fridge or freezer to keep your dish or beverage c ool and refreshing. The three sizes of these bowls nestle within each other, and look equally sweet when used individually.

Yugami Bowl was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Maker: Nousaku

Specifications

Dimensions:

Small:
3. 1 ” (w) x 3.1” (l) x 1. 2 ” (h) or 79 mm (w) x 79mm (l) x 30 mm (h)
Medium:
4.0 ” (w) x 4.0 ” (l) x 1. 5 ” (h) or 101 mm (w) x 101 mm (l) x 3 8mm (h)
Large:
4. 75 ” (w) x 4. 7 5” (l) x 1. 7 5” (h) or 1 20 mm (w) x 1 20 mm (l) x 44 mm (h)

Weight:

Small:
3.6 oz or 1 01 gr
Medium:
6. 2 oz or 1 77 gr
Large:
8. 6 oz or 24 3 gr

Materials:
Tin

Details

Made in Takaoka, Japan
Due to the hand-crafted nature of the product, as well as the malleability of tin, each piece will vary slightly in dimensions
These bowls are ideal as vessels for holding various dipping sauces, but function equally as well for serving sake or other small quantities
Hand-crafted with traditional casting techniques used for over 400 years in the region
Chill the bowl in the refrigerator or freezer before serving to help keep its contents cold and fresh
We recommend hand washing with mild soap and wiping dry with a soft cloth

Yugami Bowl

Home Decor

I am a Large Sea Urchin Pincushion. You can still poke fun at me even though I seem precious.

Curator's Notes

I'm quite fond of these because they look especially precious and each shell is different. I can't help but be reminded of my Mom's seashell collection and being fascinated by their surfaces and colours.

Sea Urchin Pincushion was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Nobuko Yuki

Specifications

Dimensions:
2.5” (w) x 2.5” (l) x 1.9” (h) or 64mm (w) x 64mm (l) x 48mm (h)

Weight:
1.1 oz or 31 g

Materials: Sea urchin shell, silk lace, pearl beads, silver thread

Details

Handmade in Japan
Made from real shells therefore each pin cushion will have unique variations
Pin cushion includes approximately 10 glass head pins

Interior of the shell is filled with sponge and silk lace

Sea Urchin Pincushion - Large

I am a Brass Rabbit Pin. If I had a nickel for every time someone called me silly, I wouldn't be eating carrots anymore!

Curator's Notes

Both the face and backing of these little pins by Proof of Guild are so intricately crafted. They add personality to an outfit or accessory while remaining sophisticated and classic. Small, precious and handcrafted in brass they are a charming way to showcase your inner spirit animal!

Brass Rabbit Pin was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Proof of Guild

Designer: Minoru Takeuchi

Specifications

Dimensions:
Approximately: 0.5” (w) x 0.5” (l) x 0.75" (h) or 19mm (w) x 13mm (l) x 13mm (h)

Weight:
Approximately: 0.2 oz or 5.7 g

Materials:
Brass

Details

Handmade in Japan
Crafted from solid brass
Pin stem is fully covered with a screw on backing

Brass Rabbit Pin

I am an Alphabet Spoon. The alphabet, an early form of communication is one of the fastest ways to understanding. And me, well I’m not only a letter, I’m also a spoon and what quicker way is there to the heart than through the stomach?

Curator's Notes

These alphabet spoons are a new series in Okinawa based metal artisan Mitsuhiro Konishi's spectacular collection. They are made entirely by hand with sculptural qualities including the use of mixed metals, a hand-hammered surface and hand-punched perforations in the form of letters.  We love the irregularities in the hand hammered aged steel heads in contrast to the smooth brass handles. Holding each spoon in your hand truly allows you to enjoy the sculpted nature of the forms. Sip, serve or simply decorate with these artful pieces.
View the whole collection here.

Alphabet Spoon was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Designer: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Specifications

Dimensions:
1.4” (w) x 5.2” (l) x 0.5” (h) or
35mm (w) x 132mm (l) x 18mm (h)

Weight:
1.2 oz or 34 g

Materials:
Brass, Stainless Steel

Details

Made in Okinawa, Japan
Composed of two metal components – A brass handle and steel head joined together with rivets
Spoons feature punched holes in the shape of letters
Hand wash only with mild soap and soft sponge
Do not wash in dishwasher
Dry with soft cloth after washing

Each spoon is individually handcrafted by a solo artisan. Contact us for lead times at 

Alphabet Spoon

I am a Silver Mini Lidded Container. My porcelain body can take in many things. I especially like salt, spices, teas and all sorts of delicacies.

Curator's Notes

Be aware these are mini, which is also what makes them so wonderful! Little containers designed for food storage and service, they are often used as vessels for ground chili, tea or treats. Their precious size make them perfect for storing small treasures.

Mini Lidded Container was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions:
1.8" (w) x 1.8" (l) x 1.96" (h) or 48mm (w) x 48mm (l) x 50mm (h)

Weight:
1.6 oz or 45g

Materials:
Porcelain

Details

Hand made in Japan
Each container is slightly different as it is produced individually by hand
Silver brushed texture on the surface
Do not use in ovens, microwave ovens, or direct flame
Do not use in dishwasher
After use wash with care with a soft sponge

Mini Lidded Container - Silver

I am a Medium Tosaita Cutting Board. The knife has a sharp tongue, but I have high self esteem.

Curator's Notes

These cutting boards are part of the award winning cookware line ‘Ambai’, designed by Makoto Koizumi. They are made from hinoki cypress, a type of wood noted for its antimicrobial properties and pleasant natural fragrance. The wood is soft on knife blades as it has an inherent elasticity. We love that the boards appear thin and delicate yet are incredibly durable, especially with the added cherry wood inserts at the corners that prevent warping. They occupy very little storage space and are also lightweight, making them easy to handle during intensive meal preparations.

Medium Tosaita Cutting Board was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ambai

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:
8.3” (w) x 13.6” (l) x 0.3” (h) or 210mm (w) x 345mm (l) x 8mm (h)

Weight:
0.5 lb or 227 g

Materials:
Hinoki Cypress, Cherry wood

Details

Made in Japan
Water resistant Shimanto hinoki cypress from Kochi, Japan, prevents the board from warping and changing colour over time
Hinoki is naturally antimicrobial
Durability is enhanced with cherry wood inserts on corners
Hand washing recommended
Dry well after washing
Boards are branded with the Koizumi Studio logo

Tosaita Cutting Board - Medium

Cutting Boards

I am a Small Silver Sculpture Vase. A silver sliver is what I deliver.

Curator's Notes

The slab-based construction of this hanging sculpture is a departure from the ordinary vase. Masanobu Ando's creation celebrates both his practice of flower arrangement and his studies in contemporary sculpture. He builds the piece from blocks of clay without the use of a potter's wheel, and applies the glaze by hand for a natural, inconsistent texture. The resulting piece is one-of-a-kind. His signature silver glaze has the shine of metal, but the comforting feeling of clay. Over time, it will oxidize, developing a darkened patina for an antique appearance, as treasured as a piece in a museum. The vase can stand sculpturally or hang on a wall.

Small Silver Sculpture Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions:

3.0" (w) x 3.6" (l) x 5.8" (h) or 76 mm (w) x 91 mm (l) x 146 mm (h)

Weight: 1.4 lb or  653 g

Materials: Ceramic, Silver Overglaze

Details

Handmade by Masanobu Ando in Tajimi, Japan

Built from slabs of clay with Japanese "tatara" technique
Hangs on the wall with a hook or nail
Can stand

Silver overglaze will develop a natural patina over time

Hand wash only with mild soap and soft sponge

Dry with soft cloth after washing

Silver Sculpture Vase - Small (out Of Stock)

I am a Silver Brewing Tray. Is there trouble brewing? Let's all calm down with a few cups of tea.

Curator's Notes

Ceramicist Masanobu Ando is a certified Tea Master, and many of his pieces are intended to function within the ancient ritual of tea ceremony. This tea drainer is modeled after a Chinese "brewing tray," a shallow plate that holds the teapot and catches spilled water. In traditional tea ceremony, boiling water is poured into and over the teapot until the water overflows to warm the vessel and help cure the clay. Ando-san reimagines the typical brewing tray as a ceramic sculpture with the craggy surface of a stone and a silver glaze that darkens with use. The slight concavity allows water to drain downwards towards the holes punched in the center, and an opening carved in the side lets you pour out the drained liquid.

Silver Brewing Tray was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions:

6.5” (w) x 7.3 ” (l) x 1.8 ” (h) or 165 mm (w) x 184 mm (l) x 44 mm (h)

Weight: 2.3 lb or 1.1 kg

Materials:

Details

Handmade by Masanobu Ando in Tajimi, Japan

Functions as a brewing tray placed beneath the teapot both to catch spilled water and as a display platform

Silver overglaze will develop a natural patina over time

Hand wash only with mild soap and soft sponge

Dry with soft cloth after washing

Do not microwave

Do not place in dishwasher

Silver Brewing Tray (out Of Stock)

Decorative Trays

I am a White Perspective Mobile. If you’re having a bad day, take a different perspective and let the wind guide your way.

Curator's Notes

The Perspective Mobile is comprised of four wood frames that intertwine and suspend on invisible wires. With movement the mobile changes its general form, creating beautiful structural shadows and intriguing perspective lines – a mesmerizing decorative object to add to the home as an alternative to a wall hanging.

Perspective Mobile was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mother Tool

Designer: Mother Tool

Specifications

Dimensions: 17.7” (w) x 19.7" (h) or 450mm (w) x 500mm (h)

Weight: 4.1 oz or 116 g

Materials: Japanese cypress

Details

Handcrafted in Japan
Comprised of four cascading wood frames connected with clear wire
Finished with a white wash
Attaches to ceiling with a thumbtack or nail

Perspective Mobile - White (out Of Stock)

I am a Cheese Knife. Sorry… I cut the cheese.

Curator's Notes

A cheese knife with just the right proportions for cutting cheese and charcuterie meats! It can also be used as a small knife for chopping herbs and fruit. The brass handle will develop a patina while the high performance stainless steel blade remains easy to wash and convenient for everyday use. Pairs nicely with the Azmaya Cheese Board found here.

Cheese Knife was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Designer: Azmaya

Maker: Naruto Hamono

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.2" (w) x 6.7” (l) x 1.4" (h) or 30mm (w) x 170mm (l) x 6mm (h)

Weight: 3.0 oz or 85 g

Materials: Brass, Stainless Steel

Details

Made in Gifu, Japan
Handcrafted
Features a stainless steel blade
The handle is made out of brass that will naturally patina over the years. It can be returned to its original luster by polishing with specialty solutions and cloths
Hand wash
Dry with a cloth after washing
The blade is engraved

Cheese Knife

Cheese Boards & Accessories

I am a Low Black Bowl. We can look high but we can also look low. The answer may be in a place we might otherwise forego.

Curator's Notes

A classic black bowl with a timeless look. This bowl is low making it ideal for finger snacks and great for tapas! The jet black glaze offers a beautifully stark backdrop for serving various brightly coloured foods.

Low Black Bowl was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Azmaya

Specifications

Dimensions: 4.7" (w) x 4.7” (l) x 1.7" (h) or 120mm (w) x 120mm (l) x 42mm (h)

Weight: 5 oz or 142 g

Materials: Ceramic

Details

Made in Japan
Glazed
Hand washing is recommended

Low Black Bowl

I am a Red Mini Lidded Container. My porcelain body can take in many things. I especially like salt, spices, teas and all sorts of delicacies.

Curator's Notes

Be aware these are mini, which is also what makes them so wonderful! Little containers designed for food storage and service, they are often used as vessels for ground chili, tea or treats. Their precious size make them perfect for storing small treasures.

Mini Lidded Container was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions:
1.8" (w) x 1.8" (l) x 1.96" (h) or 48mm (w) x 48mm (l) x 50mm (h)

Weight:
1.6 oz or 45g

Materials:
Porcelain

Details

Hand made in Japan
Each container is slightly different as it is produced individually by hand
Rim of container is brushed individually with fine gold
Do not use in ovens, microwave ovens, or direct flame
Do not use in dishwasher
After use, please wash with care with a soft sponge