I am the book Designing Design. I'm not a tautology, and I'm not trying to be a riddle. I mean what I mean, and you'll understand when you read these readings.

Curator's Notes

It can be easy to spot good design, but how well do we understand what's driving it? Kenya Hara's book has had a huge impact on how we've come to look at that question and how we've developed the ethos behind our designs. In Designing Design , he pays tribute to long-overlooked Japanese icons and images to understand the meaning of "emptiness" and how it drives the visual and philosophical tradition of Japanese design. Throughout the book and illustrated by his own designs, Hara shows us how "taking something that we think we already know and making it unknown thrills us afresh with its reality and deepens our understanding of it".

'Designing Design' was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Author: Kenya Hara

Specifications

Dimensions:
6.5" (w) x 9.5"(l) or 17.7cm (w) x 25.4cm (l)

Weight:
2 lb or 0.9 kg

Materials:
Paper

Details

Written by Kenya Hara
Designed by Naoto Fukasawa Design
472 pages
389 photographs
Paperback

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

Designing Design (out Of Stock)

Title

Home & Furniture

I am a Tochi Small Wood Plate. Like a little flying saucer! But please don't send me into space.

Curator's Notes

The simplicity of these wood plates give them a timeless strength, despite the delicate edge appearing paper thin from the top. We loved working with Makoto Koizumi to create exclusive pieces designed with heart to be at once beautiful, functional, and versatile. These plates work as simple coasters, for the wood is lightly coated with a food-safe matte layer to prevent staining, and as small-scale serving dishes. Each plate features the varying grain patterns of Japanese Toshi wood.

Tochi Small Wood Plate was created by Makoto Koizumi x Nalata Nalata

Designer/Maker

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:
4.75” (w) x 4.75 ” (l) x 0.25 ” (h) or 120 mm (w) x 120 mm (l) x 6 mm (h)

Weight:

1.2 oz or 34 gr

Materials:
Japanese Tochi

Details

Made in Japan

This piece is an exclusive design for Nalata Nalata

Carved from a single piece of wood

Slight variations in wood grain and dimensions will occur - each piece is one-of-a-kind
Lightweight and durable
Features thin, food-safe coating to guard against staining

To clean, wipe with a damp, soft cloth and dry immediately

Small Wood Plate - Tochi Wood

Home Decor

I am a Hard Body Brush. Within my boar bristles lies the fountain of youth. Brush daily and your skin will be ultra smooth.

Curator's Notes

This line of brushes is the ultimate luxury in body cleansing tools. The firm bristles of boar hair build a foamy lather similar to shaving brushes. The brushes make daily skin care routines special, high quality and relaxing – like bringing a spa to your very own home!
Handcrafted with natural boar hair and solid walnut wood, they are built to last and hold up against scrubbing and daily use in the bath. The bristles help to gradually smooth the skin’s surface and increase blood circulation over time. Boar bristles offer a supple feel that is resilient to the skin. This harder version is recommended for thorough cleansing and sebum removal, compared to the soft and semi-hard version.

Short Body Brush was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mizuho Brush Company

Designer: Suvé

Specifications

Dimensions:
2.1” (w) x 1.9” (l) x 2.4” (h) or 53mm (w) x 48mm (l) x 60mm (h)

Weight:
3.6 oz or 102 g

Materials:
Boar hair bristles, Walnut wood

Details

Made in Japan
Handcrafted in Kumano, a region that specializes in natural hair brushes
Can be used dry or wet with cleansers
Features a removable satin hanging loop
Can be used daily

Fits compactly in the palm

Short Body Brush - Hard

I am a Thin Server. With my precision, narrowing in on the best slice is a piece of cake.

Curator's Notes

We intended to use ours for spreading butter but our friend Ayako, pastry chef of Burrow Cafe in Brooklyn, told us she used them for serving pastries so we use it for that purpose now too! The narrow shape is especially good for small diameter cakes and slices. Sometimes standard cake servers can be too wide making a mess of the whole cake as you lift.

Thin Server was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Takayoshi Narita

Maker: Takayoshi Narita

Specifications

Dimensions:

0.9” (w) x 7” (l) or 23mm (w) x 178mm (l)

Weight:

1 oz or 28 g

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

Thin Server

I am Cuticle Clippers. With me at your fingertips, unruly cuticles will not eclipse.

Curator's Notes

Our hands work so hard on a day-to-day basis, and they deserve frequent love and care. One of the places we tend to overlook on our overworked hands is the cuticle. This clipper is a great tool to keep your nail bed neat and trim to prevent them from peeling and tearing.

Cuticle Clippers was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kiya

Designer: Kiya

Specifications

Dimensions:
1.5” (w) x 3.6" (l) x 0.1” (h) or 38mm (w) x 91mm (l) x 2mm (h)

Weight:
0.6 oz or 16 g

Materials:
Stainless Steel

Details

Thin, sharp and curved edges of the blades make it easy to access cuticles for precision trimming
Extra pointy tip
Portable with its compact, lightweight size

Corrosion resistant
Wipe off after each use and do not soak in water

Cuticle Clippers

I am a Wood Chopsticks Box. For the most versatile utensil, I've got box seats in the kitchen.

Curator's Notes

To protect the ends of chopsticks, we prefer to store them laying down rather than upright in a cutlery stand. This wood chopsticks box is the perfect length to hold chopsticks, keeping them neatly organized in our kitchen drawers. The box is made of elm wood and features a natural finish to showcase its subtle wood grains.

Wood Chopsticks Box was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Azmaya

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.5” (w) x 11” (l) x 1.5” (h) or 63mm (w) x 280mm (l) x 37mm (h)

Weight: 5 oz or 142 g

Materials: Elm Wood

Details

Made in Japan
Rim has a beveled edge
Wood is not coated
Azmaya logo branded on bottom of the box

Wood Chopsticks Box

I am an Japanese Walnut Business Card Case. Professional is the name. Business is the game.

Curator's Notes

Norio Tanno's way of crafting intricate wood objects continues to amaze me. For many years Tanno-san told us that he would be retiring from woodworking and handing down the ranks to his son, Masakage Tanno, but we're relieved to see that he is back at it! What amazes me the most about these business card cases are that they are carved out of a single piece of wood with no other materials except for one spring that securely closes the box with a satisfying click. A barely visible diagonal cut line indicates the lid of the case while never interrupting the continuous wood grain. Each one has a natural warm wood presence enhanced by smooth rounded edges that conform to the hand.

Japanese Walnut Business Card Case was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Norio Masakage

Designer: Norio Masakage

Specifications

Dimensions: 0.6” (w) x 3.0” (l) x 4.1” (h) or 1.4cm (w) x 7.6cm (l) x 10.5cm (h)

Weight: 1.8 oz or 51 g

Materials: Japanese Walnut, Walnut, Padouk

Details

Handmade in Asahikawa, Japan
Made out of solid wood, including all wood joinery except for a miniature hidden spring for the wood clasp to close securely
Case is mainly Japanese walbut wood
Closure is walnut wood
Branded with a small signature of the artisan “Tanno” on the bottom of the case
Holds standard business card and credit card dimensions

Business Card Case - Japanese Walnut

I am a Sujime Cast Iron Ash Case. I'm a hiding place, a little cache. Your secret's safe with me.

Curator's Notes

Although this series of solid iron boxes are meant to be used as ashtrays, they can really be beautiful multi-purpose boxes for all sorts of things, for example, jewelry or precious items, or simply as decorative objects. Each one is handmade and has a very distinctive texture and unique patterns etched onto the surface of the lid. We love the rust colored tones of these Simplicity wares as they the pieces appear to be very old like antique treasures.

Cast Iron Case was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Suzuki Morihisa Studio Ltd.

Designer: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions:
3.9” (w) x 3.9” (l) x 1.8” (h) or 100mm (w) x 100mm (l) x 45mm (h)

Weight:
1.1 lbs or 0.5 kg

Materials:
Nanbu Cast Iron

Details

Made in Japan
The base portion has three notches along the rim, typically used for resting cigarettes
Can be used as multi-purpose containers
Removable lid
'Sujime' features an etched thin concentric circles pattern
Produced in the Suzuki Morihisa foundry, renown for their skilled Nanbu Tekki cast iron manufacturing techniques
Subtle textured surface

Cast Iron Case - Sujime

I am Hosomi, a sake vessel. Sake is enhanced in my stemmed cup that’s pristine white… Now, raise your cup to merry days and lively nights!

Curator's Notes

The Jicon porcelain sake vessels are designed to enhance the experience of drinking sake. Similar to wine glasses, these expertly crafted stemmed cups have different shapes that alter the taste, fragrance and act of sipping sake. Inspired by European and Persian style goblets, each pristine white vessel from this three cup series is designed with a unique style and charming form."Subomi" found here, and"Hiraki" found here.
Sake Vessel was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Jicon
Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.3” (w) x 2.3” (l) x 2.9” (h) or 58mm (w) x 58mm (l) x 73mm (h)
Weight: 2.4 oz or 68 g
Materials: Porcelain

Details

Made in Arita, Japan
Features a stemmed base
The brand name means "porcelain (JI) in modern times (CON)"
Porcelain is created in the house of IMAMURA of the Touetsugama Kiln, founded 350 years ago
The Touetsugama Kiln originated in Sasebo City in the Nagasaki prefecture but was redeployed to Arita in the Saga prefecture and succeded by IMAMURA Kenichi XIV
The kiln makes porcelain pieces for daily life with its traditional white porcelain techniques using Amakusa Touseki (porcelain stone)

Sake Vessel - "hosomi"

I am a Red Carnation Paper Flower. You’d be wise not to think of me as flower shop filler. Mother knows best and knows that in any bouquet, I dress to impress.

Curator's Notes

At first glance, these paper flowers seem as delicate as their real counterparts; however, these intricately cut and shaped blooms are made of innovative Naoron paper construction to be waterproof and tear resistant. Each flower has distinctive symbolism and these blossoms are an enduring way of communicating them. Arranged together or with real flowers, or standing on their own, these paper flowers make an elegant statement in your home.

The Red Carnation symbolizes deep love and affection. It is common to give them to parents as an expression of gratitude in both Japan and Korea.

Red Carnation Paper Flower was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Onao Co.

Designer: Edenworks

Specifications

Dimensions:
Approximately 8.7” (w) x 13.0” (l) or 220mm (w) x 330mm (l)

Weight:
Approximately 1.2 oz or 25 g

Materials:
Naoron Paper

Details

Made in Japan
Naoron is a strong and highly water resistant paper made from recycled plastic bottles, wood pulp and polyolefin.
Created using the Japanese washi-suki paper manufacturing method
Paper-like texture

The flower is water resistant and tear resistant

Paper Flower - Red Carnation

I am a G rooming Set with Case. D on’t think of me as any ball-and-chain. I’m lightweight and ready to keep you fresh wherever you want to go.

Curator's Notes

Traveling can sometimes be hairy, but luckily you don’t have to be. This handsome leather and tin canister contains a full supply of tools to keep your look neat and trim, no matter how many days you’ve been on the road. The set features a pair of nail clippers, hair trimmer, tweezers, an ear pick and a pocket knife, all of which are made with the same quality that Kiya brings to their knives and cutlery. Ideal for longer trips, this set will ensure that you are ready to impress wherever you go.

Grooming Set with Case was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kiya

Designer: Kiya

Specifications

Dimensions:
1.3” (w) x 2.3" (l) x 3.6” (h) or 33mm (w) x 58mm (l) x 91mm (h)

Weight:
6 oz or 160 g

Materials:
Sterling Silver, Stainless Steel, Leather

Details

Made in Japan
Perfect travel companion containing all your grooming needs
Includes an ear pick, tweezers, facial hair scissors, a black edition Swiss Army knife, and nail clippers
Items slot into a leather divider in the kit that can be pulled out easily with all items in their place
Easy to carry in a compact case with lid that snaps securely closed
Kiya logo embossed on the leather part of the case
Wipe off each product with a dry cloth after each use and do not soak in water

Grooming Set With Case (out Of Stock)

I am a Glass Teapot. Watching water boil is never fun — I much prefer to watch tea leaves bloom.

Curator's Notes

Making tea is always a nice break from the day, and this glass teapot is a great reminder to appreciate the time and the process of doing so. Being able to see the tea leaves bloom and release its pigment in the clear vessel is like watching watercolours in action. The coil strainer at the base of the spout not only keeps the overall aesthetic clean, it ensures that every cup of tea tastes just as clean as well.

Glass Teapot was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions:

5.1" (w) x 7.9" (l) x 3.7" (h) or 13cm (w) x 20cm (l) x 9.5cm (h)

Weight:
18 oz or 510g

Volume:
12 fl oz or 350 ml

Materials:
Glass, Stainless steel

Details

Handmade in Japan
Teapot includes removable tightly coiled tea strainer in spout

Not microwave safe

Do not use on an open flame
Wash with a soft sponge after use

Glass Teapot

Teapots & Kettles

I am a wood ‘Mamezara’ Mini Plate. I’m really good at the little things.

Curator's Notes

Mamezara plates are “bean" plates in Japan. They’re essentially mini plates used for beans or small pickled vegetables but I like this plate for a small serving of dark chocolate to go along with a nightcap.

'Memezara' Mini Plate was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ryuji Mitani

Designer: Ryuji Mitani

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.9” (w) x 3.9” (l) x 0.6" (h) or 10cm (w) x 10cm (l) x 1.5cm (h)

Weight: 1 oz or 27 g

Materials: Mountain cherry wood, Food-safe lacquer

Details

Handcrafted in Matsumoto, Japan
Features Ryuji Mitani's signature on the bottom of the plate
Bottom of plate is lacquered black
Do not soak urushi lacquered pieces in water for prolonged periods
Wash with a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Rinse with warm water
Wipe with a cloth and dry well
Each piece is unique and will have variations
Urushi lacquer will become less glossy and more matte as time goes by
Do not place in dishwasher
Do not microwave

Mamezara Mini Plate (out Of Stock)

I am a Small Glass Carved Bowl. I’m glass with a deep black surface for dessert, snacks, or whatever your purpose!

Curator's Notes

These bowls have a rocky texture when you hold them created from carving into the glass after coating them with deep black enamel. The black comes through with hazy edges almost like a deep burgundy color. This technique showcases the complicated glassblowing techniques mastered by founder Kazumi Tsuji exceptionally.

Small Glass Carved Bowl was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: factory zoomer

Designer: Kazumi Tsuji

Specifications

Dimensions: 4.3” (dia) x 2.0" (h) or 11cm (dia) x 5cm (h)

Weight: 6.0 oz or 167 g

Materials: Glass

Details

Handmade in Kanazawa, Japan
Mouth-blown
The bowl is coated in black enamel and carved
Features hand carved texture on the surface
Blackened pattern is irregular in size

This bowl is ideal for individual snacks, side dishes, or ice cream
Each glass has handmade characteristics that are unique. Slight variations in form, pattern and size will occur
Hand wash recommended
The pattern is permanent and will not scratch off or wash away
The exterior has a frosted surface
The interior has a polished surface

Small Glass Carved Bowl (out Of Stock)

I am a Round Kuro-Mura Brass Serving Tray. Come out of the circle of time and work and into the circle of relaxation and great drinks!

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 blackened brass makes its coloration and texture look richer over many years of usage.

Round Kuro-Mura Brass Serving Tray was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Futagami

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 9.4” (w) x 9.4" (l) x 0.7” (h) or 240mm (w) 240mm (l) x 17mm (h)

Weight: 2.4 lbs or 1 kg

Materials: Brass

Details

Made in Japan
Blackened surface is created by mixing pigments with Japanese lacquer
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

Kuro-mura Brass Serving Tray - Round

Serving Trays

I am a ‘Clear’ Duo Old Fashion Glass. When your values are clear, any decision you make allows you to sleep with ease… so too does a nightcap!

Curator's Notes

A challenging feat of craftsmanship done with success! These Duo Old Fashion glasses fuse two layers of glass into a seamless form with incredible skill, making them appear like a full glass. The collection is composed of five different styles. They can add a unique addition to any barware collection. This style features two layers of clear glass.

Duo Old Fashion Glass was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Sugahara

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.5” (w) x 3.5” (l) x 3.3” (h) or 89mm (w) x 89mm (l) x 83mm (h)

Weight: 10 oz or 283 g

Volume: 7.5 fl oz or 222 ml

Materials: Glass

Details

Made in Japan
Volume: 7.5 fl oz
Hand-blown
Glass is fused with two layers of overlapping glass
We recommend hand-washing

Duo Old Fashion Glass - 'clear' (out Of Stock)

Cocktail Glasses

I am a Blossom Bowl. When you look at this little buttercup, you just can't help but feel cheered up.

Curator's Notes

This petite blossom bowl is one of the most precious pieces we've received from Masanobu Ando. With a shape reminiscent of a bulbous buttercup, the ceramic dish rounds in at the bottom to rest upon three tiny feet. The floral bowl is sized to fit snugly in the palm of your hand, and it has a matte finish that provides the perfect backdrop for sweets to have with tea.

Blossom Bowl was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.4" (w) x 3.4" (l) x 1.8" (h) or 8.6cm (w) x 8.6cm (l) x 4.1cm (h)

Weight: 2 oz or  57g

Materials: Ceramic

Details

Handcrafted in Tajimi, Japan
Interior and exterior is matte white glazed
Stands on three feet
Tips of feet are unglazed
Hand wash
Can be used with hot or cold liquids
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have variations
Not microwave safe

Not dishwasher safe

Blossom Bowl (out Of Stock)

I am a Red Sansho Bowl. With my color and shape, my tastes are definitely bold. I'm sure to spice up your dining table.

Curator's Notes

This beautiful ceramic bowl is a feast for the eyes as much as the dish it contains. Its unique, floral shape refers to the fruit of sansho pepper corns, paying homage to spices that add so much flavour and excitement to food. The bowl is finished with a rich red glaze that adds a pop of color to a table setting. With its unique shape and open petals, we love using it to serve appetizers or pickled salads that accompany our meals.

Red Sansho Bowl was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions: 5.9” (w) x 5.9” (l) x 5.9" (h) or 15cm (w) x 15cm (l) x 19.5cm (h)

Weight: 1 lb or 0.5 kg

Materials: Porcelain

Details

Made in Arita, Japan
Use soft sponge and soap to clean
Shape is inspired by the Japanese sansho pepper
Fired with a deep red glaze
Handcrafted by individual artisans - each bowl may have slight variations in shape and colour
Not microwave safe

Not dishwasher safe
We recommend washing by hand with a non-abrasive sponge

Red Sansho Bowl

I am Asamiya Blend Sencha Tea. Mixed from three rare green tea leaf varieties, I'm nothing but the best!

Curator's Notes

The Asamiya blend is a classic for all seasons. It is a blend of three rare green tea leafs - asatsuyu, yabukita and saemidori. It is great for those who enjoy drinking several rounds of tea to bring out different fragrances the leaves offer with each new brew. A tea you won't get tired of drinking as it is has nice balance. The uplifting and refreshing qualities of this sencha tea make it pleasant to drink for all types of occasions. We fell in love with this tea after a visit to a teahouse in Kyoto and drink it regularly. The tea leaves originate from a farm that uses only organic fertilizer.

Sencha Tea was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Nichinichi

Specifications

Dimensions:
10.2” (w) x 2.5” (l) x 0.8” (h) or 259mm (w) x 63mm (l) x 20mm (h)

Weight:

3.5 oz or 100 g

Materials:
Camellia sinensis (blend of asatsuyu, yabukita and saemidori varieties - Spring 2016 harvest)
Details

Brewing time: 90 seconds at 50 degrees Celsius or 122 Fahrenheit

Originates from a farm with fields cultivated organically for more than 40 years

Store in shade. Avoid storing in direct sunlight, high temperature, and humidity

Sencha Tea - Asamiya Blend

I am a Beech Wood Tea Case. Other tea cases try to surpass it, but nothing compares to my intricate wood facets.

Curator's Notes

I’ve never seen a tea case quite as well crafted as this piece by master wood artisan, Norio Tanno. Whenever I’m in Hokkaido, I make it a point to meet with him, just to get a dose of inspiration for our own wood designs. Seeing him pass down his skills to his son Masakage Tanno, makes me want to do an apprenticeship with him! This Tea Case is one of his masterpieces in my opinion. It is full of beautiful surprises and a delight to handle. Incredibly intricate, the case has multiple components that are all handcrafted in solid wood with wood joinery techniques. An exterior case houses an interior canister that perfectly slides together. A foldable tea scoop sits securely on top of a small knob on the lid of the interior canister. All the pieces have their place.

Beech Tea Case was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Norio Masakage

Designer: Norio Masakage

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.9” (w) x 3.9” (l) x 3.9” (h) or 9.8cm (w) x 9.8cm (l) x 10mm (h)

Weight: 7.5 oz or 213 g

Materials: Beech, Maple, Padouk, Ebony

Details

Handmade in Asahikawa, Japan
Made out of solid wood, including all wood joinery except for a miniature hidden spring for the wood clasp to close securely
Outer case mainly Beech wood. Inner canister is maple wood. Intricate padouk and ebony detailing throughout
Scoop is held in place by slotting it onto the knob on the lid of the interior canister
Foldable scoop
Branded with a tiny signature of the artisan “Tanno” on the bottom of the case
Includes 3 components: Outer Case, Inner Tea Canister and Scoop

Tea Case - Beech Wood (out Of Stock)

I am a baby blanket. It’s not easy watching over these little ones. Baby powder scent, comfy cradle, soothing lullabiii…. Zzzzzzz…..zzzz… Oh, sorry, what was I saying?
Curator's Notes

Baby’s first blanket should be a precious object as it holds so many memories and is a source of comfort for every little one. These Fog Linen blankets have all the right elements to make for a timeless blankie that will always be cherished, even as one grows up. The neutral ivory color is so versatile. It’s also dye-free and knitted from 100% cotton, all natural materials that make it safe for baby’s skin. Best of all, it’s extremely soft!

Baby Blanket was curated by Angélique Chmielewski
Designer/Maker

Designer: Yumiko Sekine

Maker: Fog Linen
Specifications

Dimensions:
30” x 40” or 750mm x 1000mm

Weight:
0.65 lbs or 0.3 kg

Materials:
Cotton
Details

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

Baby Blanket

I am a Dessert Fork. I have a sweet tooth… four to be exact.

Curator's Notes

This mixed metal dessert fork is entirely handmade by Mitsuhiro Konishi in his Okinawa based workshop. We love seeing the irregularities in the hand hammered aged steel heads in contrast to the smooth brass handles. A substantial weight is balanced with an intricate attention to detail with small rivets and subtly curved handles. Holding each piece in your hand truly allows you to savor the sculpted nature the forms have to offer! View the whole collection here.

Dessert Fork was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Designer: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Specifications

Dimensions:
0.8” (w) x 6.3” (l) x 0.5” (h) or
19mm (w) x 159mm (l) x 13mm (h)

Weight:
0.6 oz or 17 g

Materials:
Stainless steel and Brass

Details

Made in Okinawa, Japan
Composed of two metal components – A brass handle and steel head joined together with rivets
Hand wash only with mild soap and soft sponge
Do not wash in dishwasher
Dry with soft cloth after washing
Each fork is individually handcrafted by a solo artisan. Contact us for lead times at 

Dessert Fork

I am a Daisy Etched Tumbler. Daisy, Daisy, give me your answer do! I'm half crazy about sharing a drink with you!

Curator's Notes

Inspired by the signs of spring, this thin and lightweight glass invites cold, refreshing drinks for warm weather days. The tall 10 oz glass features a subtle floral pattern intricately etched into the glass, capturing the mood of whimsical gardens. I can't wait to enjoy a cold beer with it on the patio on a balmy afternoon.

Daisy Etched Tumbler was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kimura Glass

Designer: Kimura Glass

Specifications

Dimensions:
2.7” (w) x 2.7” (l) x 4.8” (h) or 69mm (w) x 69mm (l) x 121mm (h)

Weight: 0.2 oz or 5.7 g

Materials: Lead-free crystal

Details

Design in Japan
Holds 320ml or 10oz

Sold individually
Etched flower motif is lightly frosted
Can be used for a variety of beverages like beer, cocktails and lemonade
Made with Kimura Glass' signature ultra thin and lightweight glass technology

Daisy Etched Tumbler

Drinking Glasses & Cups

I am a Shochu Pitcher. You don't need perfect pitch to know that chilled shochu always hits the high note.

Curator's Notes

Three overlapping sections fit together to form this shochu pitcher. The outer compartment regulates the temperature of the inner one - filling it with chilled water or ice will help to keep the contents of the inner compartment cold, making the pitcher a great way to serve shochu, sake, or even wine! The separate layers easily disassemble to make washing a breeze. By the way, Shochu is a Japanese hard liquor, distilled from sweet potato, barley, rice, buckwheat or sugar cane.

Shochu Pitcher was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

D esigner: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:

3.5 ” (w) x 3.5" (l) x 5.75" (h) or 89mm x 89mm x 146mm

Weight:

1.8 lb or 0.8 kg

Materials:

Porcelain

Details

Made in Japan

Glossy finish
Three sections fit together to form the pitcher
Inner compartment can be filled with beverage of your choice
Outer compartment can be filled with ice or chilled water to keep the contents cool
Lid sits on top of the inner compartment and within the outer compartment
Suitable for sake, shochu, or wine
Not dishwasher safe
Hand wash with soft sponge and mild soap, and dry components separately

Shochu Pitcher

Color

Pitchers & Jugs

I am a Silver Blue Lined Teacup and Saucer. They say look for the silver lining, but I look for the blue lining.

Curator's Notes

With its pretty floral shape and surprising interior, this sliver blue lined teacup with saucer from Masanobu Ando is a precious reminder of spring. The exterior surface of the porcelain is glazed in real silver that stands in contrast to the rugged nature of this handcrafted set. The play of contrasts is further emphasized by the faint blue tint left exposed in the interior of the cup. Reminiscent of pale robin's egg blue, the delicate pop of color adds a gentle warmth to savor with every sip.

Silver Blue Lined Teacup and Saucer was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions:
Teacup: 2.0” (w) x 2.0” (l) x 2.0" (h) or 51mm (w) x 51mm (l) x 51mm (h)
Saucer: 3.0” (w) x 3.0” (l) x 0.7" (h) or 76mm (w) x 76mm (l) x 18mm (h)

Weight: 3 oz or 85 g

Materials: Ceramic, Silver overglaze

Details

Handcrafted in Tajimi, Japan
Sold individually as one teacup and saucer set
Interior of teacup is glossy faint blue glazed
Exterior is silver overglazed
Foot of teacup is textured and matte
Handwash only
Dry after washing
Silver overglaze will develop a natural patina over time
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have variations
Do not dish wash
Do not microwave

Silver Blue Lined Teacup And Saucer

Type

Tea Cups

I am Large White Plate. No meal need be so plain. You can frame a meal like you can frame a moment.

Curator's Notes

This plate 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. This size is perfect as a dinner plate.

Large Round White Plate was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions: 10.7” (w) x 10.7" (l) x 1" (h) or 27cm (w) x 27cm (l) x 2.5cm (h)

Weight: 27 oz or 765 g

Materials: Ceramic

Details

Handcrafted in Tajimi, Japan
Rim is approximately 1.75" wide
All over matte white glaze
Handwash
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have variations
Not dishwasher safe

Not microwave safe

Smaller version of the plate can be found here

Round White Plate - Large (out Of Stock)

I am a Chrysanthemum Teacup. Life is the flower for which love is the tea.

Curator's Notes

When I first saw these cups I personally purchased them not for use, but because I fell in love with the 'sugar white' glaze, as Masanobu Ando calls it. The white is slightly granular, so it doesn’t have a flat matte look to it. It also feels better in your hands when drinking something as comforting as tea. Honestly, I didn’t even know how to drink Chinese or Japanese tea when I acquired them years ago, but after learning how to prepare tea properly, I began to realize how much an appropriately proportioned teacup adds to the experience.

Chrysanthemum Teacup was curated by Angélique Chmielewski.

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.3” (w) x 2.3” (l) x 2.0" (h) or 5.7cm (w) x 5.7cm (l) x 5.1cm (h)

Weight: 2 oz or 57 g

Materials: Ceramic

Details

Handcrafted in Tajimi, Japan
Sold individually
Interior and exterior is matte white glazed
Textured surface
Handwash
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have variations
Do not place in dishwasher
Do not microwave

Chrysanthemum Teacup (out Of Stock)

I am a Dash patterned Tenugui Cloth. A dash of utility is a good thing for everyone. Use me for all your daily textile needs.

Curator's Notes

Tenugui cloths are one of Japan’s old traditions but when we first received one as a gift, we had a lot of questions about this seemingly plain cotton cloth... Why are the ends frayed? What is it used for? Why the rectangular shape? A friend explained that tenuguis are a multipurpose cloth used for decorating, wrapping gifts, carrying items, wiping and drying hands. They can also be used as handkerchiefs, napkins, bandanas or kitchen cloths. The edges are frayed to allow quicker drying and are antiseptic as bacteria will not be as prone to build up as it would if the cloth had seams.
Once we discovered their versatility, we began to appreciate the meaning behind such a simple household object. We now have a large collection of tenuguis on rotation in our home and often give them as souvenirs when we return from Japan. Tenuguis by Kamawanu are handcrafted using traditional techniques. The labour-intensive process can be seen in this video.

Dash Tenugui Cloth was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kamawanu

Specifications

Dimensions: 13” x 35” or 33cm x 90m

Weight: 2 oz or 57 gr

Materials: 100% Cotton

Details

Made in Japan
No seams
Ends are left raw
Selvage-edged sides
Ends will fray with time and stop at around 1cm of fraying
Cloth will soften with each wash
Tenugui are dyed by hand and variations in the dye color or pattern may occur
Color fading is expected over time and can be reduced by hand washing
Multi-purpose function

Tenugui Cloth - Dash

I am a Bowl with Handles. You better keep tabs on me, I'm about to bowl over.

Curator's Notes

This is one of the first pieces we ever acquired by Masanobu Ando for our personal home and fell in love with the two little tab handles on the sides of the bowl. The silhouette is so charming, not to mention incredibly functional. We use the bowl for cereal but the handles help to ease the heat of hot soup. They also help balance full bowls of liquid as you transport food to the dining table.

Bowl with Handles was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions: 6.0" (w) x 7.8" (l) x 2.3" (h) or 15cm (w) x 20cm (l) x 5.8cm (h)

Weight: 11 oz or 322 g

Materials: Ceramic

Details

Handcrafted in Tajimi, Japan
Interior and exterior is matte white glazed
Hand wash
Can be used with hot or cold liquids
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have variations
Not microwave safe

Not dishwasher safe

Bowl With Handles

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:
0.6” (w) x 5.0” (l) x 0.4” (h) or
16mm (w) x 127mm (l) x 11mm (h)

Weight:
0.6 oz or 17 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