I am a large blackened brass stationary tray. My surface changes over years of use to obtain a subtler finish over time. Some say that’s called growing old, but I like to think of it as aging gracefully.

Curator's Notes

The classic shape and Kuro-Mura casted surface on these trays gives them an antique appearance. This traditional method of casting mixes pigments with Japanese lacquer (Urushi) giving a unique texture and sophisticated appearance. Their weight feels substantial and appropriate for daily use while the slow oxidization of the brass makes its coloration and texture look richer over many years of usage.
Large Kuro-Mura Stationary Tray was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Futagami

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.5” (w) x 9.5” (l) x 0.5” (h) or 89mm (w) x 241mm (l) x 13mm (h)

Weight: 1.1lbs or 0.50kg

Materials: Brass and Velvet

Details

Made in Japan
Also available in a set with the medium and small stationary tray

Blackened surface is created by mixing pigments with Japanese lacquer
Curved facet edges
Velvet underside
Ideal for pen/pencil holder
Brass from Toyama Prefecture
Molding in Takaoka City
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc
Brass products gradually change their color over the course of many years due to oxidization
A dark warm patina is expected to develop within 2 years

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

Kuro-mura Stationary Tray - Large

Title

Decorative Trays

I am a Walnut Magazine Rack. Forget what you see in the magazines. When you're as flexible as me, you create your own dreams.

Curator's Notes

The gentle curves of the plywood create beautiful lines which are both stylish and sophisticated. This magazine rack in walnut wood anchors a room and provides a warm, rich natural grain finish that complements any room.

Walnut Magazine Rack was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Saito Wood Co.

Designer: Isamu Saito

Specifications

Dimensions: 6.5” (w) x 16.5” (l) x 10.75” (h) or 165mm (w) x 419mm (l) x 273mm (h)

Weight: 2.65 lbs or 1.2 kg

Materials: Walnut wood veneer and plywood

Details

Made in Japan
Exposed plywood edges
Occasional oiling may be necessary to return luster

Walnut Magazine Rack

Magazine Racks

I am a Side Entry Walnut Paper Waste Basket. I'm open 24/7 but only through the side entrance.
Curator's Notes

This side entry waste basket is slightly larger in scale compared to the other Saito baskets making it perfect for commercial spaces - restaurant restrooms, building lobbies, or shared offices. A removable lid makes cleanup efficient.
Trash containers are often hidden or an after-thought, kept far away from public sight. We like the idea that a frequently neglected household item can also be beautiful and worthy of display.

Walnut Paper Waste Basket with Side Entry was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Saito Wood Co.

Designer: Isamu Saito

Specifications

Dimensions: 9.5” (w) x 9.5” (l) x 15.3” (h) or 241mm (w) x 241mm (l) x 387mm (h)

Weight: 1.14 lbs or 0.52 kg

Materials: Walnut wood veneer and plywood

Details

Made in Japan
Exposed plywood edges
Removable flat top lid
One side opening
Occasional oiling may be necessary to return luster
We recommend that you only dispose dry waste in the wastebasket

Walnut Paper Waste Basket With Side Entry (out Of Stock)

Waste Baskets

I am a Cherry Pill Case. Don’t run the risk of forgetting a dose. If you want to stay healthy, keep me close.

Curator's Notes

Masakage Tanno calls this piece a pill case but in reality you cant really put pills in it, at least not the size of pharmaceutical pills in North America. It took me so long to figure out a useful purpose for it until I realized its great for carrying mints around, like Altoids. Although, a few of our clients tell me they carry their herbal pills in it, so I guess Masakage is right in calling it a pill case! Regardless, I like it more for it’s incredible craftsmanship than anything, anyways.

Cherry Pill Case was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Tanno Masakage

Designer: Tanno Masakage

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.5” (w) x 1.5” (l) x 2.0” (h) or 38mm (w) x 38mm (l) x 51mm (h)

Weight: 0.8 oz or 23 g

Materials: Cherry, Maple, Walnut

Details

Handmade in Asahikawa, Japan
Rotating wood top that reveals the slots, one slot being solid wood and acts as the “closure” point ensuring the pills do not fall out
Rotating lid features inlaid maple and walnut wood placed in a pinwheel pattern
Pill case is multi-faceted; its unique shape makes it easy to grasp and find in a bag

Pill Case - Cherry

Home & Furniture

I am a Rounded Cylinder Porcelain Pendant. With one flick my warm glow with show.

Curator's Notes

These hand made porcelain pendant lamps break up space with soft warm light, bringing a sense of calm and harmony to its surroundings. We love the hazy rouge hued glow that porcelain naturally gives off along with the ridges and fine lines that quietly rest on these gentle forms created by ceramic artisan, Tobimatsu. The off-white surfaces, intentionally left unglazed to further the soft illumination effect, leaves a palpable paper-like impression on the senses.

Porcelain Pendant was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Tobimatsu

Designer: Tobimatsu

Specifications

Dimensions:
Shade:
2.8" (w) x 2.8" (l) x 8.9" (h) or 70mm (w) x 70mm (l) x 225mm (h)

Weight:
0.6 lb or 250g

Materials:
Porcelain, Brass, Cloth Cable

Details

Made in Japan
Includes porcelain shade, brass socket and approximately 12" of white twisted cloth cable
Unglazed
Japanese standard electrical parts
Bulb not included
Professional installation recommended
Please contact us for questions about components or installation

Porcelain Pendant - Rounded Cylinder

Pendant Lights

I am a Smoky Leather Candle. Set me aglow and my flame will blow my scent to where it needs to go.

Curator's Notes

This smoky leather candle offers a clean scent to transport you from the heavy humidity of a summer night, and creates an intimate atmosphere for an evening out on the patio. I like how the scent isn't overpowering, but blends naturally into the air. The fragrance's smoky, earthy opening is followed by notes of plum, amber, and patchouli. The raw leather cover turns into a sculptural candle plate when placed beneath.

Smoky Leather Candle was curated by Daniel Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hender Scheme

Designer: Ryo Kashiwazaki

Specifications

Dimensions:
3.0” (w) x 3.0” (l) x 3.5" (h) or 76mm (w) x 76mm (l) x 89mm (h)

Weight:
15 oz or 425 g

Materials:
Cow Leather, Soy Wax, Cotton Wick

Details

Made in Japan
Premium cow leather cover
Clear glass vessel
Debossed Hender Scheme logo on top cover
11oz of burning wax
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

Smoky Leather Candle

Candles

I am a thick white kitchen towel with red stripes. I'm cut from a different cloth. Where I'm from, we've got thick skin. We get thrown around all the time so we have to be able to handle all the mess. Not to mention the tough spills and hot pots.

Curator's Notes

These natural linen kitchen cloths are a charming and functional addition to the kitchen or bar. Each cloth will only get softer and more absorbent with each wash. We especially like to use them as lining inside mesh baskets along with an everyday dish towel.

Thick Linen Kitchen Cloth - White with Red Stripes was curated by Angélique Chmielewski
Designer/Maker

Designer: Yumiko Sekine

Maker: Fog Linen
Specifications

Dimensions:
25.5” x 17.5"” or 648mm x 457mm

Weight:
0.21 lbs or 0.09 kg

Materials:
Linen
Details

Made in Lithuania
Machine wash and dry
Cotton loop allows for hand drying

Thick Linen Kitchen Cloth - White With Red Stripes

Tea Towels

I am a Tsubomi Bamboo Flower Basket. If you want to live on the edge of life, you need to be flexible.

Curator's Notes

Deceptively lacquered black bamboo looks like metal. From afar these baskets have that appearance but once you lift them the thin strips have a lightweight feel that is surprising and a testament to the skilled bamboo craftsmen from the Kohchosai Kosuga studio. An equally thin stemmed flower would be the perfect match.

Tsubomi Flower Basket was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kohchosai Kosuga

Specifications

Dimensions: 5.4” (w) x 5.4” (l) x 5.0" (h) or 13.7cm (w) x 13.7cm (l) x 12.7cm (h)

Weight: 6.2 oz or 176 g

Materials: Bamboo, Glass

Details

Handmade in Kyoto, Japan
A glass vessel is included that can be placed in the center of the basket to water flowers
Each piece is made from raw bamboo strips and will feature unique variations
To clean bamboo, wipe with a dry cloth

Tsubomi Flower Basket (out Of Stock)

Baskets & Hampers

I am a Ryo Ladle. Nothing says love more than a ladle full of warm soup.

Curator's Notes

Both elegant and artisanal, the Ryo cutlery series serves as a fantastic complement to everyday dining environments. Employing his expertise in metal arts, Yuichi Takemata finishes each stainless steel piece by hand in his Kanazawa based atelier. Takemata’s special method of hand hammering offers a rich texture to the surface that gives the collection an antique appearance.

Ryo Cutlery Series was curated Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Yuichi Takemata and Tasan Kinzoku co.
Designer: Osamu Saruyama

Specifications

Dimensions:
Ladle: 2.2”(w) x 6.7”(l) or 56mm(w) x 170mm(l)

Weight:

Ladle: 2.6 oz or 74 g

Details

Made in Japan
Long-handed spoon with cup shaped bowl
Features decorative ridged handles
Constructed of heavy weight stainless steel
Each piece is hand finished by Yuichi Takemata
As the pieces are hand hammered, slight differences may occur in surface texture

Ryo Series - Ladle

Ladles

I am a Kobo Coaster. I like having a good time, but I'm not a big fan of rides. I'm happy to be firm and steady, and I bet your drink is too.

Curator's Notes

Taking cues from the meaning of 'kobo' or ray, this coaster radiates beauty in its design and construction. The raised ray pattern collects condensation from a glass to keep the surface below clean and dry. The coaster has a nice height and weight and features a clear silicone footing, giving it substantial presence without slipping or damaging a table. As with all Futagami brass designs, this piece develops a handsome patina over time. We love how pretty our glasses look sitting on the coaster, as well as the reflections it makes on our tabletop.

Kobo Coaster was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Futagami

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 4.5" (w) x 4.5" (l) x 0.8" (h) or 115mm (w) x 115mm (l) x 20mm (h)

Weight: 0.6 lb or 270 g

Materials: Brass

Details

Made in Japan
Clear silicone padding on the underside prevents slipping and scratching of tabletop surfaces
Copper from Toyama Prefecture
Molding in Takaoka City
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc
Brass products gradually change their color over the course of many years due to oxidization
A caramel colored patina is expected to develop within 5 years
A russet brown color patina is expected to develop at approximately 30 years
Surface texture produced from the sand casting process

Kobo Coaster

Coasters

I am a Figurine of Woman with Rain Hat. A little bit of rain won’t get me down. I’ve got my nails done, let’s paint the town!

Curator's Notes

This standing woman owns a stylish yellow hat that is removable. It can be placed on her head, on her clenched hands or off to the side for when she wants to roam free and bare. Sometimes she loans her hat to her friend who needs help because her friend always has her head in the clouds. She also flaunts an exquisite pedicure. Clearly she knows how to live.

Figurine of Woman with Rain Hat was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Yuki Nishio

Designer: Yuki Nishio

Specifications

Dimensions:
Approximately: 0.8” (w) x 0.9” (l) x 3.2” (h) or 2.0cm (w) x 2.2cm (l) x 8.2cm (h)

Weight:
Approximately: 0.5 oz or 14 g

Materials: Ceramic

Details

Handmade in Japan
Figurine features a removable yellow hat

Figurine is packaged in a handmade and hand-dyed brown box

Each figurine is hand made and will vary in size and shape. Slight imperfections in the ceramic may occur

Figurine Of Woman With Rain Hat (out Of Stock)

Figurines

I am a Usuhari Glass Sake Set. If eyes are the window to the soul, then my crystal clear glass is the window to a really good time. Kanpai!

Curator's Notes

In Japanese, "Usu" means thin and "Hari" means glass. This sake set combines all the right elements of Usuhari and fits nicely into a traditional wooden Kiri box for safe storage. As a former lightbulb manufacturer, Shotoku applied their specialty lightbulb making techniques when the company switched gears to glassware production. The exceptionally thin 0.9mm blown glass may look delicate but is strong and can be handled like most glassware.  Its this combination of details that allows you to enjoy the delicate tastes of sake with minimal interference, while admiring the color through crystal clear glass… the best way to enjoy sake!

Usuhari Glass Sake Set was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Shotoku Glass Co.

Specifications

Dimensions:
Decanter: 2.4” (w) x 2.4” (l) x 7.5” (h) or 61mm (w) x 61mm (l) x 191mm (h)
Glass: 1.8” (w) x 1.8” (l) x 2.3” (h) or 46mm (w) x 46mm (l) x 58mm (h)

Weight:
Decanter: 2.2 oz or 2.4 g
Glass: 1.0 oz or 28.3 g

Materials: Glass

Details

Handcrafted in Japan
0.9mm glass thickness
Includes one decanter, two glasses and one "Kiri" wooden box for storage
Hand wash recommended

Usuhari Glass Sake Set

I am a Hammered Steel Spoon. I’ve been knocked around and banged up so you better believe I can handle anything. Piping hot drinks? Bring ‘em on!

Curator's Notes

This steel spoon, part of Mitushiro Konishi’s collection of cutlery, is an incredible display of the sculptural quality of this skilled metal artisan’s work. This series is hand-formed from solid stainless steel and hand-hammered for a unique surface texture. Finished with subtly curved handles and hand-punched perforations. They add a touch of magic to the table setting.

Hammered Steel Spoon was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Designer: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Specifications

Dimensions:
0.9” (w) x 5.4” (l) x 0.4” (h) or
22mm (w) x 138mm (l) x 9.5mm (h)

Weight:
0.4 oz or 11 g

Materials:
Stainless Steel

Details

Made in Okinawa, Japan
Composed of solid hand-hammered stainless steel
Hand wash only with mild soap and soft sponge
Do not wash in dishwasher
Dry with soft cloth after washing

Hammered Steel Spoon (out Of Stock)

Home Decor

I am a midnight black steel clock. Don’t worry I’m still here. Just follow my bright white hands and I’ll lead the way. I’ll get you to where you need to be and on time. Don’t be scared, follow me!

Curator's Notes

Simplicity in time telling! I love clocks that bear a minimal design because they can integrate into any living space easily. Designed by the renowned interior designer Riki Watanabe, this monochromatic clock is composed of a durable matte steel frame and paired with a black clock face. Black on black!

Riki Steel Clock - Midnight Black was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Takata Lemnos Inc.

Designer: Riki Watanabe

Specifications

Dimensions:
8” (w) x 8” (l) x 2.4” (h) or
204mm (w) x 204mm (l) or 60mm(h)

Weight:
1.45 lbs or 0.66 kg

Materials:
Steel and Glass

Details

Made in Japan
Matte Steel Frame
Silent sweep movement
Metal clock hands
One AA battery included

Riki Steel Clock - Midnight Black

Clocks

I am a Large Minotake Bamboo Plate. I hope I grow on you fast. Afterall, I am made from one of the fastest-growing plants in the world.

Curator's Notes

We love how lightweight these square bamboo plates are while still being very durable. Since 1898, Kohchosai has been specializing in making a variety of bamboo craft products. The Minotake line, designed by the world-renowned Makoto Koizumi, utilizes the natural properties and curvature of bamboo to create a series of cutlery items and kitchen tools. Each bamboo piece is naturally lightweight, uniquely curved and features purposeful angles and arches. A smaller version of this plate is available here.

Minotake Bamboo Plate was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kohchosai Kosuga

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions: 11” (w) x 9.8” (l) x 1.2" (h) or 280mm (w) x 250mm (l) x 30mm (h)

Weight: Approximately 10 oz or 283 g

Materials: Bamboo, Food-safe urethane coating

Details

Handmade in Kyoto, Japan
Using heat, bamboo is flattened to create this plate
We recommend washing with a mild dish detergent
Each piece is made from raw bamboo and will feature unique variations in curvature and wood grain

Minotake Bamboo Plate - Large

I am a Maple Pill Case. Don’t run the risk of forgetting a dose. If you want to stay healthy, keep me close.

Curator's Notes

Masakage Tanno calls this piece a pill case but in reality you cant really put pills in it, at least not the size of pharmaceutical pills in North America. It took me so long to figure out a useful purpose for it until I realized its great for carrying mints around, like Altoids. Although, a few of our clients tell me they carry their herbal pills in it, so I guess Masakage is right in calling it a pill case! Regardless, I like it more for it’s incredible craftsmanship than anything, anyways.

Maple Pill Case was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Tanno Masakage

Designer: Tanno Masakage

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.5” (w) x 1.5” (l) x 2.0” (h) or 38mm (w) x 38mm (l) x 51mm (h)

Weight: 0.8 oz or 23 g

Materials: Maple, Purple Heart

Details

Handmade in Asahikawa, Japan
Rotating wood top that reveals the slots, one slot being solid wood and acts as the “closure” point ensuring the pills do not fall out
Rotating lid features inlaid maple and purple heart wood placed in a pinwheel pattern
Pill case is multi-faceted; its unique shape makes it easy to grasp and find in a bag

Pill Case - Maple

I am an Wood Coaster. A good foundation is the cornerstone of a great drink.

Curator's Notes

Takashi Tomii hand carves each coaster. The pronounced grooves from Takashi’s hand tools are very perceptible by touch making the coasters a pleasure to hold while sipping on a drink.

Wood Coaster was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Takashi Tomii

Designer: Takashi Tomii

Specifications

Dimensions:
3.5” (w) x 3.5” (l) x 0.1" (h) or 89mm (w) x 89mm (l) x 3.2mm (h)

Weight:
0.8 oz or 23 g

Materials:
Oak wood

Details

Made in Japan
Hand carved by Takashi Tomii
The coasters are finished with natural oil and bee's wax
Apply natural mineral oil periodically to seal against bacteria and to hydrate wood
Each coaster is made by hand and will vary slightly in dimension and shape

Wood Coaster (out Of Stock)

I am a Silver Teardrop Pitcher. Don't cry if it spills, just move on and refill.

Curator's Notes

This tea pitcher is used to hold the tea after it has been brewed. Called a "chahai", which translates poetically to "sea of tea", the vessel helps to maintain the strength and taste of the brew throughout the tea ceremony. A bit like a wine decanter, the tea is then poured from the pitcher into the individual cups. This way, the tea leaves do not continue to steep in the hot liquid between pours. The pitcher is also known as a "fair cup" or "bowl of impartiality", as serving from a chahai makes sure that each tea drinker receives the same brew. Masanobu Ando's love of tea ceremony continually inspires him to create his own, deeply personal versions of the traditional tools. From the unique silver glaze to the little "v" of the hand-formed spout, the pitcher could only have come from the hands of Ando-san.

Silver Teardrop Pitcher was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions:

3.1” (w) x 4 .4 ” (l) x 2.6 ” (h) or 78 mm (w) x 112 mm (l) x 66 mm (h)

Weight: 4.4 oz or 124 g r

Materials:

Details

Handmade by Masanobu Ando in Tajimi, Japan

Modeled after the traditional chahai, a pitcher from which brewed tea is served to ensure that the strength and taste of the tea is the same for each drinker and throughout the ceremony

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 Teardrop Pitcher (out Of Stock)

Pitchers & Jugs

I am a Deep Oval Platter. For some reason, everything gets handed to me.

Curator's Notes

This platter is part of what Masanobu Ando calls his ‘Holland’ series characterized by simple shapes, wide rims and sweeping matte white surfaces. The proportions of the wide band really showcase what’s being presented in the center so the focus becomes on the food. It is slightly deeper than most platters making it perfect for items that can roll around and saucy dishes. The hand formed rims are slightly irregular and wavy providing a perceptible handcrafted feel.

Deep Oval Platter was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions: 13” (w) x 9.8” (l) x 1.8" (h) or 33cm (w) x 25cm (l) x 4.4cm (h)

Weight: 1.8 lb or 0.8 kg

Materials: Ceramic

Details

Handcrafted in Tajimi, Japan
All over matte white glaze
Handwash
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have variations
Do not dishwash
Do not microwave

Deep Oval Platter (out Of Stock)

I am a Black Glass. What do you mean other colors?

Curator's Notes

factory zoomer calls this the "Nero Glass" in reference to the incredibly deep black color a chieved by sandwiching a layer of black glass between two layers of clear glass. A thin strip at the base is left clear revealing the layers, an unparalleled skill of the factory zoomer studio and their founder Kazumi Tsuji. It's amazing glass could be this dark!

Black Glass was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: factory zoomer

Designer: Kazumi Tsuji

Specifications

Dimensions:

2.9” (dia) x 4.0" (h) or 7cm (dia) x 10cm (h)

Weight:

3.5 oz or 99 g

Materials: Glass

Details

Handmade in Kanazawa, Japan
Mouth-blown
Each glass has handmade characteristics that are unique. Slight variations in form, pattern, size and opacity will occur, including natural irregularities in the glass
Hand wash

Black Glass (out Of Stock)

I am a Clear Air Jug. Don’t think of me as airheaded — I just want to be crystal clear.

Curator's Notes

The decisions made on the design of this jug are so thought through when you look at its oversized handle. Its larger proportion is so comfortable to hold and easier to pour from, while adding a visual charm that makes it look handmade. Like other pieces of factory zoomer glassware, this jug has a substantial weight that does not feel too delicate to be passed around the table. We love serving water or fresh juice with this jug for small gatherings and dinner parties.

Clear Air Jug was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: factory zoomer

Designer: Kazumi Tsuji

Specifications

Dimensions:
3.1” (w) x 6.6" (length from spout to outer edge of handle)  x 6.9" (h) or 7.9cm (w) x 16.8cm (l)  x 17.5cm (h)

Weight:
Approximately: 1.8 lb or 0.8 kg

Materials: Glass

Details

Handmade in Kanazawa, Japan
Mouth-blown
Handle is solid glass
Each glass has handmade characteristics that are unique
Slight variations in form and thicknesses may occur, including natural irregularities in the glass
Hand wash

Clear Air Jug

I am a Light Green and Deep Red Glass Bowl. Everyone’s true colors show eventually.

Curator's Notes

The shape of the bowl is reduced so its really all about the eye catching colors. I love how the two colors bleed into each other - a magical effect when applied to a material like translucent mouth blown glass.

Glass Bowl was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions:
5.9" (w) x 5.9" (l) x 2.5" (h) or 150mm (w) x 150mm (l) x 64mm (h)

Weight:
11.3 oz or 320g

Materials:
Glass

Details

Handmade in Japan
Interior is glossy
Exterior is frosted
Features a thin, lightly handpainted rim
Each bowl is slightly different as it is individually hand blown
Non heat-resistant
Do not place in dishwasher, oven or microwave
Wash with a soft sponge after each use

Glass Bowl - Light Green And Deep Red

I am a small Lidded Black Ash Paper Waste Basket. You wanna see me flip out?
Curator's Notes

Trash containers are often hidden or an after-thought, kept far away from public sight. We like the idea that a frequently neglected household item can also be beautiful and worthy of display. The design detail of the swaying lid is particularly attractive and engaging.

Small Black Ash Paper Waste Basket with Lid was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Saito Wood Co.

Designer: Isamu Saito

Specifications

Dimensions: 8” (w) x 8.8” (l) x 11” (h) or 203mm (w) x 224mm (l) x 279mm (h)

Weight: 1.14 lbs or 0.52 kg

Materials: Black Ash wood veneer and plywood

Details

Made in Japan
Exposed plywood edges
Bent swaying lid
Occasional oiling may be necessary to return luster
We recommend that you only dispose dry waste in the wastebasket

Black Ash Paper Waste Basket With Lid - Small

I am a Round Rimmed Plate. With custom rims like mine, I'll park anywhere and people just stop and stare.

Curator's Notes

This hand-carved plate is perfect for serving toast at any meal. Japanese mountain cherry wood is intentionally selected by Ryuji Mitani as it's surface absorbs just the right amount of heat, without making toast go soggy. Although it's great for bread we think it also works for snacks that roll around because it's thin rimmed walls keep everything you're eating contained.

Round Rimmed Plate was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ryuji Mitani

Designer: Ryuji Mitani

Specifications

Dimensions: 7.0” (w) x 7.0” (l) x 0.9" (h) or 17.8cm (w) x 17.8cm (l) x 2.2cm (h)

Weight: 4.7 oz or 133 g

Materials: Mountain cherry wood

Details

Handcrafted in Matsumoto, Japan
Angled walls to catch crumbs
Thick bottom
Soft bevelled edges
Smooth surface with rich wood grain texture
Hand-carved
Wash with a soft sponge and water
Wipe with a cloth and dry well immediately after washing
For maintenance, oil the plate periodically with a neutral oil
Each piece is unique and will have variations

Round Rimmed Plate (out Of Stock)

I am a Thin Dish. A heavy wooden base and carved walls make me especially neat for all the salads you'll eat.

Curator's Notes

The silhouette of this dish is especially elegant because of the heavy base that flows up into shallow walls. It is an understated design that showcases the careful placement of the wood grain that looks like the ripples of water. The rim catches food and gives leverage for scooping foods like pasta. Both the underside and upper surfaces are covered in small hand-carved grooves devising a mesmerizing dance of highlights and shadows.

Thin Dish was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ryuji Mitani

Designer: Ryuji Mitani

Specifications

Dimensions: 7.5” (w) x 7.5” (l) x 1.3" (h) or 19.1cm (w) x 19.1cm (l) x 3.2cm (h)

Weight: 6.1 oz or 173 g

Materials: Mountain cherry wood

Details

Handcrafted in Matsumoto, Japan
Curved walls
Thick bottom
Soft bevelled edges
Rich wood grain and textural surface
Hand-carved
Wash with a soft sponge and water
Wipe with a cloth and dry well immediately after washing
For maintenance, oil the plate periodically with a neutral oil
Each piece is unique and will have variations

Thin Dish (out Of Stock)

I am a Tea Strainer Brush. Straining every nerve to get something clean is not my cup of tea. I'll help clean your pot with ease.

Curator's Notes

This brush is so beautifully designed that I can't wait to use it to show it off. Made of sturdy yet flexible palm fibres, this brush helps remove spent tea leaves that accumulate in the strainer and spout of a teapot. The brass cover helps the brush keep its shape and the silk tag can be hung easily within reach. The elegance of its materials and construction make it a piece that you'd be happy to take out when serving afternoon tea.

Tea Strainer Brush was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Azmaya

Specifications

Dimensions: 0.2" (w) x 0.2” (l) x 4.7” (h) or 6mm (w) x 6mm (l) x 120mm (h)

Weight: 0.2 oz or 5 g

Materials: Hemp Palm, Brass, Silk

Details

Made in Japan
Handcrafted
Brass body resists water and rust

Cover slides down to protect bristles
Natural hemp palm fibers clean tea strainer without damaging the surface
Dry thoroughly after cleaning with a gentle cloth

Tea Strainer Brush

I am a Fried Rice Spoon. I'll take rice that's fried for a stainless steel ride.

Curator's Notes

Like magic, Takayoshi Narita turns sheets of stainless steel into delicate, functional sculptures. His process of meticulously hand-hammering produces pieces that are unmistakably hand-made, with slight bends and variations. Despite its name, this spoon can be used to enjoy a variety of foods. I can just see it swooping elegantly into a bowl of hot broth. It has been designed in such a way so that it seems to half balance, half float when placed on the table.

Fried Rice Spoon was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Takayoshi Narita

Maker: Takayoshi Narita

Specifications

Dimensions:

2 .1 ” (w) x 6.3” (l) x 1.2” (h) or 53mm (w) x 159mm (l) x 30mm (h)

Weight:

1 .3 oz or 38 gr

Materials:
Stainless Steel

Details

Handcrafted in Japan
Richly textured hand-forged surface with highlights due to the hammering and cooling process
Composed of one piece
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have slight variations in dimensions and weight
We recommend hand washing with mild soap and soft sponge

Fried Rice Spoon (out Of Stock)

I am a large kakudo board. I come from wholesome roots so I know how to be a loyal sidekick. I'll always be there to catch your spills and play an essential part in your daily routines… cutting, serving and eating. So let me assist you, we will make a great team.

Curator's Notes

Beautifully crafted from solid cherry, Kakudo boards can be used as a cutting board, serving tray or even as a plate. Each board features has a ½” groove around its edge to catch run-offs and a rounded base to elevate the hardwood platform. The large board is particularly generous and can easily go from kitchen preparations to table presentation.

Kakudo Board Large was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Takahashi Kougei

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions:
11.25” (w) x 11.25” (l) x 0.88” (h) or
286mm (w) x 286mm (l) x 22mm (h)

Weight:
2 lbs or 0.91 kg

Materials:
Cherry Hardwood

Details

Made in Japan
Also available in a Medium and Small size
Can be used as a cutting board or plate
Every corner and edge is rounded
Shapes of the boards match a variation of food servings
Grooves all around the rim catches liquids and crumbs
Occasional sanding (320 grit) will return the board to a smooth luster
Apply mineral oil periodically to seal against bacteria and to moisturize wood "Kakudo" means angle in Japanese and is in reference to the variation of angles that give tableware its unique functions and forms

Kakudo Board - Large (out Of Stock)

I am a Mini-Choko Glass. I'm one-of-a kind, mini but mighty. I'm patterned and perfect for sipping sake your way.

Curator's Notes

Your hands and lips feel a special texture as your eyes feast on black cut-glass enamel patterns. These little glasses are not only a pleasure for the senses but their special mouth-blown qualities also call out to be admired for their remarkable craftsmanship. Perfect for sake or tea sipping.

Mini-Choko Sake Glass was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: factory zoomer

Designer: Kazumi Tsuji

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.4” (dia) x 2.0" (h) or 60mm (dia) x 50mm (h)

Weight: 0.6 oz or 17 g

Materials: Glass

Details

Handmade in Japan
Sold individually
Mouth-blown with hand-cut and applied black enamel on the exterior surface
Bottoms of the glass are clear (without patterns)
Can hold hot or cold liquids
Each glass has handmade characteristics that are unique
Slight variations in form, pattern and opacity may occur
Hand wash recommended

'mini-choko' Glass

Size

I am a Clover Bottle Opener. Feeling lucky? Me neither. Let’s drink.

Curator's Notes

We were out drinking with Rina Ono on our last night in Japan three years ago when we ended up at some kind of ramen restaurant. Before we ended the night she gave us this piece as a present and I’ve always been so in love with the shape ever since.

Clover Bottle Opener was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Chusin Kobo

Designer: Rina Ono

Specifications

Dimensions:
1.8” (w) x 4.3” (l) x 0.2" (h) or 46mm (w) x 110mm (l) x 0.2mm (h)

Weight:
2.0 oz or 57 g

Materials:
Cast Iron

Details

Made in Japan
Solid cast iron
Inspired by the shape of a clover leaf