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5 Ways To Incorporate Minimalist Japanese Style Into Your Thanksgiving Decor

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Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and reflection. As we prepare our homes to welcome family and friends, our chosen decor can significantly impact the atmosphere. This year, consider embracing the minimalist elegance of Japanese style to create a serene and sophisticated setting. The minimalist Japanese aesthetic emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and beauty, focusing on quality over quantity.

By incorporating a few carefully chosen products, you can transform your Thanksgiving decor into a calming retreat that honors tradition and modernity. And we have curated a collection of five unique products that perfectly embody this style. Integrate them into your Thanksgiving celebration for a lovely Japanese-inspired atmosphere!

1. Use Mood Lighting To Create A Cohesive Ambience

Japanese style and philosophy have the innate gift of making one feel calm, at peace, and almost zen-like. And, that’s exactly the kind of environment you want to create at your Thanksgiving dinner. Create a cohesive and harmonious ambiance by integrating soothing lighting options. Pick a gentle light source to guide guests, and form a welcoming atmosphere. You can use these lighting designs as centerpieces or along pathways.

Consider subtle candle designs like the Japanese Lantern Candle, and group multiple candles on a tray with other natural elements like stones or leaves to elevate the minimalist and Japanese-esque aesthetic.  Your guests will feel welcomed, warm, and at ease, allowing them to shed their worries and truly make the most of Thanksgiving.

Japanese Lantern Candle

A great option would be the Japanese Lantern Candle. This lovely candle is inspired by the classic “chouchin” lanterns that were used to illuminate Japanese festivals and traditional bars. This candle will add a touch of historical charm and modern elegance to any space. It offers a warm and relaxing glow, which makes onlookers feel at ease. It is handcrafted, and blessed with a minimal aesthetic, making it an ideal addition to a Thanksgiving table setting.

The outer wax of the candle does not melt, thereby allowing the lantern to maintain its shape and beauty with time. It is a durable product that functions as a long-lasting source of ambient light while forming a peaceful atmosphere that is great for all those present at your dinner.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69.00

What we like

  • Showcase the beautiful craftsmanship of traditional Japanese artisanship.
  • Functions as a decorative piece and a functional light source.

What we dislike

  • Ideal for indoor use, but not may be able to withstand outdoor conditions.

2. Serve Traditional Japanese Beverages Or Whiskey To Add A Cultural Touch

If you want to fuse some Japanese culture into your Thanksgiving Day, you could consider serving some traditional Japanese beverages or whiskey in some Japanese-influenced glassware. This will help add a cultural touch to your meal, while also creating a unique visual appeal. The sleek and crisp aesthetic of Japanese glassware will elevate and enhance a sophisticated table setting.

You could pair up the glasses with minimalist tableware to create a setting that is classy, elegant, and refined. It will serve as a unique and refreshing change from the conventional Thanksgiving table settings we’ve all grown accustomed to over the years. You could consider the Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey Glass for this job – it will add some cultural charm to your table!

Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey Glass

Elevate your mundane Thanksgiving toast with the luxurious Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey Glass! It is crafted by skilled Japanese artisans and has a sleek and classy appeal. It merges tradition with cutting-edge technology, to create a glass with unmatched durability. It is made from pure titanium which enhances the flavor of beverages, making it an ideal choice for your Thanksgiving celebration.

It is inspired by the Aurora, and cutting-edge tech was used to form a fascinating light and color play, creating a truly mesmerizing visual experience. It adopts advanced space development technology, which creates a product that is practical, functional, and beautiful. The glass is resistant to odors and stains, ensuring long-term hygiene.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65.00

What we like

  • Made with pure titanium which offers long-lasting use.
  • Titanium preserves the purity of taste and provides an enhanced flavor.

What we dislike

  • Limited use, since it is mainly designed for whiskey.

3. Use A Single Color Theme For Synchronicity & Seamlessness

A simple yet clever approach to creating a seamless table setting and incorporating some Japanese-inspired cleanness is to adopt a single-color theme. Try picking out tableware designs of the same color to create a streamlined and organized aesthetic that screams Japanese design philosophy. Stick to crisp and classy colors like black, for a theme that feels subtle yet sophisticated.

We would recommend avoiding loud colors, and instead sticking to the simpler neutral ones. You can never go wrong with black, and a stellar recommendation would be the Obsidian Black Precision Chopstick Tongs. It will create a unique table setting for your guests, and serve as an interesting conversation starter for your dinner, and the next few ones as well! You could win the title of a Thanksgiving trendsetter!

Obsidian Black Precision Chopstick Tongs

The Obsidian Black PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs are an excellent option to kickstart your single-color-themed table setting. They are a unique blend of tradition and modernity, and they’re great for both cooking and dining. They feature a sleek black color, which will support you in creating a cohesive all-black table setting. You could add other products to the mix like the Obsidian Black Salad and Serve Tongs too!

What makes these tongs even more unique is their chopstick style! They are inspired by traditional Japanese utensils, offering better precision handling and versatility. They add that extra touch of Japanese inspiration to your meal. Whether used in the kitchen or at the dining table, these tongs can add a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving meal.

Click Here to Buy Now: $22.00

What we like

  • Made from durable SUS821L1 stainless steel, these tongs are built to last.
  • Features an ergonomic design that ensures a comfortable grip.

What we dislike

  • May be a learning curve for those unfamiliar with chopstick-style utensils.
  • Use may be limited to certain types of food.

4. Integrate Essential Oils To Complement The Minimalistic Aesthetic

Essential oils are a gateway to peace and calm. Add essential oils to your Thanksgiving dinner atmosphere, to create a vibe that feels calming and relaxing. You can choose essential oils such as lavender, cedarwood, or sandalwood to complement the minimalistic aesthetic. These scents will create a lovely atmosphere, helping guests to relax and enjoy the celebration.

You can use diffusers to spread the scent of the essential oils throughout your living space. Place the diffuser in a central location to ensure the gentle aroma spreads and permeates your space. A diffuser to consider for this task could be the Batter-Free Aroma Diffuser. It will help your guests feel at ease in your home, encouraging them to unwind and have a wonderful dinner.

Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser

You can incorporate sensory elements into your decor to create a lovely overall experience for your guests. The Batter-Free Aroma Diffuser is an eco-friendly option that uses the power of a single candle to disperse calming aroma. This little diffuser will add a sensory dimension to your Thanksgiving decor, while also aligning with Japanese emphasis on environmental consciousness.

What makes the diffuser unique is that it doesn’t need any batteries or external power sources to operate. It uses the heat of a single candle to spread the calming aromatic scents. The diffuser is built using sustainable materials, adopting an eco-friendly and minimalist ethos.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

What we like

  • Made from recyclable materials, making it an eco-friendly option.
  • Suitable with all kinds of essential oils.

What we dislike

  • It doesn’t feature electric controls, making it tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma.

5. Use Seasonal Flowers To Capture The Essence Of Fall

Flowers are an evergreen addition to any decor or setting, they add a hint of fresh air and natural beauty. You can add seasonal flowers and foliage, using them as stunning centerpieces to capture the true essence of fall. They will beautifully embody the minimalist Japanese appreciation for nature and simplicity, adding some natural charm to your home.

Use unique and innovative flower vases or modular tubes to create an interesting setup. Pick geometrically fascinating ones to build some visual interest, urging your guests to ask you ‘Where did you get this piece from?’ One such worthy option can be the Modular Flower Tubes. The tubes feature different heights creating a visually intriguing experience.

Modular Flower Tubes

Called the Modular Flower Tubes, these beautiful little tubes are an interesting and fun alternative to the boring old vases we all tend to use. The container is built from metal and wood, and it provides flexible creativity to users, allowing them to create their own tailored flower arrangements according to their tastes. You can select seasonal flowers to create a wonderful floral arrangement to add to your Thanksgiving decor.

The tubes have different heights which adds some visual interest, while the use of copper ensures the water is clean and odorless. You can arrange the tubes in different configurations to complement your Thanksgiving decor theme. You can develop different patinas with time, enhancing the aesthetic sense, and adding more value to the vase. The wooden base offers stability and durability to the product.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

What we like

  • Provides users with creative liberation, allowing them to create their personalized arrangements.
  • Lets you display seasonal flowers, perfectly capturing the Fall spirit.

What we dislike

  • The patinas that will develop over time need to be well maintained.

The post 5 Ways To Incorporate Minimalist Japanese Style Into Your Thanksgiving Decor first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Japanese-Inspired EDC Designs To Gift Collectors To Enrich Their Tool Kit

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In the arena of EDC items, Japanese-inspired designs truly hold a place of their own. These EDC designs stand out since they beautifully merge precision, craftsmanship, and minimalism. These tools and accessories offer not only practicality, but they represent a design philosophy based on thoughtfulness and meticulous attention to detail. And for an EDC lover, owning a well-designed piece that not only serves a purpose but also tells a story, is the greatest joy.

If you’re searching for the perfect gift for an EDC lover in the hope of adding a touch of Japanese elegance to their collection, then you’ve reached the right spot. We’ve curated a collection of 10 Japanese-inspired EDC items that are designed to inspire. From sleek knives inspired by the craftsmanship of ancient swordsmiths to innovative multi-tools that showcase modern ingenuity, these products are a fine specimen of the best of Japanese design principles.

1. 8-in-1 EDC Scissor

Named the 8-in-1 EDC Scissor, this innovative and versatile tool is created to elevate your indoor and outdoor culinary experiences. It is cleverly engineered, and designed to not only cut but also serve as a multifunctional camping and kitchen companion. It can separate two distinct knives, providing a unique twist on traditional scissors.

It packs a variety of practical tools in its form – including a built-in bottle opener, nutcracker, can opener, and a fire starter. It is great for tackling a whole bunch of tasks, whether you’re cooking up a meal in the great outdoors, or simply starting a warm fire. If someone you love enjoys spending time in the outdoors, then this versatile tool would be an excellent gift.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59

Why is it noteworthy?

The 8-in-1 EDC Scissor stands out for its ingenious design, allowing the scissors to be effortlessly disassembled into two individual knives. This feature provides added flexibility and functionality, transforming the tool into a comprehensive multitool that caters to diverse needs.

When reassembled, the scissors can easily handle cutting tasks, from slicing through cured meats to more delicate kitchen preparations. The serrated mid-section is specifically designed to crack walnuts and other hard-shelled nuts, demonstrating its versatility and utility in the kitchen.

What we like

  • A versatile tool that can be used in different environments
  • Offers multiple solutions in one compact design

What we dislike

  • It is multifunctional with a unique form making it not so easy to carry around

2. Titaner Titanium DIY Folding Fan

Meet Titaner’s Titanium DIY Folding Fan – a one-of-a-kind EDC that seems to have jumped right out of an action hero’s kit. The Fan 4.0 is the perfect culmination of elegance, functionality, and craftsmanship packed into the body of an EDC. It is refined and functional, adopting titanium instead of the typical bamboo wood, in turn creating a modern version of the original tool from ancient Asia.

The Titanium DIY Folding Fan works as a fan and a self-defense tool if you are aware of how to use it. It works well for both men and women, making it a unique and innovative addition to anyone’s EDC collection – it is a great gifting option! It is built with a titanium frame and is made for endurance, without sacrificing aesthetics or elegance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $305 $610 (50% off). Hurry, only 7/120 left! Raised over $120,000.

Why is it noteworthy?

The ribs of the fan have been trimmed to reduce weight, featuring a diamond shape, and chamfered form to provide an ergonomic grip to users. It ensures you’re comfortable while holding it and fanning yourself, or if you’re subtly trying to boast its stunning craftsmanship. The ribs showcase strips of natural mother-of-pearl, adding a luxurious and shimmering touch to the fan.

The fan also boasts a waterproof silk fabric, which adds to its beauty and practicality. It is lightweight, flexible, and impervious to nature, ensuring its quality remains untouched. The inlays incorporate a touch of traditional artistry, which offers a lovely contrast to the titanium structure.

What we like

  • A unique EDC that merges functionality with timeless style
  • Has some potential as a self-defense tool

What we dislike

  • It has a niche appeal, and may not be the best option for buyers looking for practical everyday fans

3. Higonokami Knife

The Higonokami Knife isn’t just an ordinary cutting tool; it is a valuable slice of Japanese history. Its origins can be traced back to 1894, and it is being crafted by the only authorized company to produce it – the Nagao Kanekoma Factory, thereby maintaining the traditional methods passed down through generations. Each piece is crafted with the same precise attention to detail that has been honed over five generations.

This ensures the authenticity of the knife while protecting the historical significance of the knife-making process. It has a simple yet functional design and is equipped with a friction folder mechanism that lets you open the blade with one hand, a feature that was quite novel when it was first introduced. It would make an incredible gift for someone who loves collecting Japanese-inspired EDC.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Higonomaki knife is bringing back the legacy of Japanese knife-making, without any duplicity or falseness. It is a representation of the attempt to preserve techniques that are centuries old. It is equipped with a double beveled edge, making it a great fit for both lefties and righties, elevating its usability.

Each Higonamaki knife is handmade, ensuring that each piece is blessed with a unique touch and superior quality, that cannot duplicated nor mastered by mass production. It maintains a traditional design that will be loved by collectors and knife enthusiasts.

What we like

  • Since the company is the sole producer, they are guaranteeing an authentic piece of Japanese craftsmanship
  • Features a flexible double-beveled edge

What we dislike

  • There may be limited availability and increased wait times for the product
  • Not a great option for those looking for modern features

4. OrigamiSwift Mouse

Say hello to the OrigamiSwift Mouse – a foldable Bluetooth mouse that merges portability with precision. This unique mouse is inspired by the elegant art of origami, allowing it to fold flat for easy storage. It unfolds in a snap, converting any surface into your personal desk, functioning as a nifty EDC for the tech nerds out there.

Irrespective if you’re gifting this to a tech enthusiast who needs to handle tasks on the go, or a digital nomad who may need to set up a desk anytime anywhere, this Japanese-inspired EDC is the perfect choice. The full-sized mouse can be folded to fit into their pocket, so they are e never without their trusty mouse!

Click Here to Buy Now: $79

Why is it noteworthy?

The OrigamiSwift combines portability and full-size comfort to create a truly one-of-a-kid mouse. It only weighs around 40 grams and features a USB-C rechargeable battery that can last for around 3 months, so you never have to worry about your mouse dying off, and leaving you stranded.

It wakes up and gets to work in 0.5 seconds, so it is always action-ready and prepared to help you with your tasks. It features soft-click buttons and a smooth glide4, which supports responsive and discreet usage on different kinds of surfaces, helping you focus and work with ease.

What we like

  • It folds flat and easily fits into your bag or pocket
  • Equipped with a durable triangular form that maintains stability and a cool aesthetic

What we dislike

  • The mouse has a 4000 CPI setting, but it isn’t the best option for users who want customizable sensitivity

5. Square Tube Knife

The Square Tube Knife perfectly merges traditional Japanese aesthetics with a modern design language. It draws inspiration from the elegance and precision of the Katana. It is minimal while providing maximum impact. It was designed by Koss Workshop not simply as a cutting tool, but also as a piece of art. It features a hollow square tube which serves as the handle and the sheath.

The knife is built from W1-7 high-carbon steel, which is popular for its sharpness and durability. It is covered with aluminum tubing which features a meticulous finish, eliminating any sharp edges. The seamless integration of materials and form creates a knife that is as much about the experience of using it as it is about its cutting capabilities, making it a thoughtful and unique present for an EDC lover who wants to expand his collection.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Square Tube Knife’s design is truly sleek and minimalist, with an innovative square metal tube doubling as a handle and a sheath. It truly embodies the Japanese principle of “less is more”, providing a refreshing and novel take on a traditional tool.

When sheathed it is only 223 mm, making it the perfect EDC tool for those who prefer efficiency and subtlety. If you’re someone who appreciates high-quality craftsmanship, or someone who prefers a minimal toolbox, then the Square Tube Knife is a must-have EDC for you.

What we like

  • Compact and portable size making it easy to carry and store
  • Ideal for those who prefer simple and elegant tools

What we dislike

  • Hefty price tag

6. Card Calipers

Designed by Eiger Tools, the Card Calipers are innovative tools that merge practicality with portability. The calipers are ultra-thin, measuring around 0.3mm in thickness. They are the ideal precision measurement tools to have at your fingertips. They’re designed to fit seamlessly into your wallet, making them as easy and convenient to carry as a credit card.

The design is essential for DIY enthusiasts, craftsmen, and professionals who need accurate measurements wherever they go, making it the perfect gift for them. They are crafted from stainless steel, and provide durability and reliability, withstanding the rigors of daily use. The markings are in inches and millimeters, making them versatile for different applications.

Why is it noteworthy?

With the Card Calipers, Eiger Tools has managed to merge traditional measurement precision with modern design. They are invaluable tools for those who value accuracy and convenience in their EDC tools. They’re not only ideal for professionals but also for hobbyists and project lovers.

The calipers are also the thinnest in the world, merging practicality with portability. They provide the high-precision measurements professionals desire, in a nifty and handy Japanese-inspired body.

What we like

  • Convenient credit card size
  • The stainless steel construction provides longevity

What we dislike

  • The compact size may not be ideal for measuring bigger objects

7. All-in-One Screwdriver

Introducing the All-in-One Screwdriver – an innovative tool amped with an exciting design and multifunctional capabilities. It isn’t simply an ordinary screwdriver, it is the perfect fusion of engineering excellence and playful cleverness. It will add a touch of whimsy and enhanced functionality to your workbench.

Its unique features are designed to make even the most challenging screwing tasks feel effortless, making it an indispensable addition to any toolkit. What makes it stand out from typical screwdrivers on the market are a few advanced features, such as a novel ball-bearing mechanism.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

At the heart of its design is an innovative ball-bearing mechanism, which ensures a smooth and seamless operation. This allows for an excellent screwing experience, minimizing friction and effort. Additionally, the screwdriver is equipped with a detachable spinner wheel, designed to tackle large screwing challenges with ease.

This feature provides increased torque and faster rotation, making it ideal for tasks that require more power. For those who need even greater efficiency, the hexagon bit holder can be adapted for use as an electric screwdriver, further enhancing its versatility and utility. This adaptability makes the All-in-One Screwdriver a truly versatile tool, capable of handling a wide range of applications with precision and ease.

What we like

  • It supports a smooth swivel action, which requires only minimal finger strength to operate
  • Equipped with enhanced torque and speed

What we dislike

  • The additional features do improve functionality, but they could be over-kill for straightforward screw-driving tasks

8. Tidashi

Meet the Tidashi – a titanium mini knife that beautifully blends traditional Japanese design with contemporary innovation. It draws inspiration from the Kiridashi-Kogatana – a traditional Japanese utility knife. It perfectly captures the essence of ancient Japanese craftsmanship while integrating modern techniques and materials.

The knife is made from titanium, which is preferred for its strength, lightweight properties, and corrosion resistance. These useful qualities make the Tidashi an ideal and capable EDC tool, designed to meet everyday requirements and deal with challenging situations with ease. An EDC lover would be grateful to have the Tidashi gifted to them!

Why is it noteworthy?

The knife features a long handle and short cutting edge, which pair up to provide excellent control and precision. It is well-suited for tasks that need fine detail like opening packages or making precise cuts in woodworking. It features a minimal aesthetic, making the product both functional and elegant.

The Tidashi perfectly captures the Japanese philosophy of simplicity and utility, making it the perfect tool for those who appreciate both beauty and practicality. It is designed to be a modern reinterpretation of a classic design, making it a valuable and unique addition to your EDC kit.

What we like

  • It features a titanium construction, making it a long-lasting tool
  • Offers superior handling and control for detailed tasks

What we dislike

  • It features a short blade which may be inconvenient for larger cutting tasks

9. AirTag Carabiners

Introducing the AirTag Carabiners – these novel new designs are designed to enhance the functionality and looks of traditional metal carabiners. They provide a modern twist on a classic accessory, merging precision engineering with a good-looking and sleek form to ensure you never lose your key again.

The carabiners are designed to be portable and easy to carry around, hence they flaunt a lightweight and compact form. Gifting these carabiners to an EDC lover would be an excellent idea, as they will safeguard their keys while boasting a sleek Japanese-inspired form.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119

Why is it noteworthy?

The AirTag Carabiners draw attention since they exhibit exceptional craftsmanship and unique design qualities. Each carabiner was precisely and meticulously handcrafted, offering a standard of durability and sturdiness that may not be seen in conventional carabiners.

The manufacturing process could cause the different pieces to differ, adding subtle variations to each piece. This results in unique, distinctive, and one-of-a-kind designs that are a great representation of how they were created. This individuality not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures that no two carabiners are exactly alike, offering a personalized touch to each owner.

What we like

  • Feature a premium quality construction, which ensures the carabiners will maintain a sleek appearance and enhanced functionality
  • Lightweight and portable design, making them super easy to carry around

What we dislike

  • The process of attaching and detaching the AirTag can be cumbersome, especially for users who require frequent and quick access to their AirTag

10. Tactical Titanium Pen

This Tactical Titanium Pen isn’t just an ordinary writing instrument. It is a versatile tool that merges elegance with tactical functionality, creating an impressive Japanese-inspired EDC. It draws inspiration from the precision and durability of Japanese blade makers. It is made from a single rod of Norwegian titanium, which is known for its impressive strength and lightweight properties.

The construction of the pen is seamless and corrosion-free, so it remains unblemished no matter what. It also features a strategic glass breaker tip, which makes it useful in emergencies. It isn’t simply a useful writing tool, but also a valuable asset in sudden scenarios. It also offers great grip and control for writing or drawing.

Why is it noteworthy?

The pen’s high-grade titanium body ensures that it is practically indestructible. It is a great gift for those who appreciate functionality and design in their EDC items. It is the perfect culmination of Japanese-inspired craftsmanship and modern utility, making it an essential tool for both daily tasks and strategic needs.

When it comes to writing, it is balanced and ergonomic, allowing you to write comfortably. The ergonomic design also makes it exceptional for emergencies. This may be the first writing instrument we’ve seen that also doubles up as a tactical tool with a glass breaker tip.

What we like

  • Dual functional and versatile product
  • Features a sleek design inspired by Japanese craftsmanship

What we dislike

  • The specialized tactical features may not be needed by all users

The post Top 10 Japanese-Inspired EDC Designs To Gift Collectors To Enrich Their Tool Kit first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Sleek & Stylish Japanese-Influenced Stationery For A Zen & Organized Desk Setup

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In recent years, Japanese design philosophy and principles have been discovered by the rest of us, and since then they have slowly but surely taken over the world. There’s something about products with a Japanese touch that instantly makes you feel at ease. They have a sense of warmth and tranquility to them, one that spreads in the space that they’re placed into. There’s something so efficient, functional, and yet unique about Japanese-influenced stationery, in particular.  And we’ve got you covered with a collection of innovative Japanese-inspired stationery! These beautifully designed products are all you need to introduce some Japanese zen and peace to your workdesk.

1. Kintsugi Plain Notebook

This stunning notebook draws inspiration from the Japanese art of Kintsugi, which involves repairing or fixing cracks in pottery with gold lacquer. It has a simple yet beautiful design cover, which embodies a deeper meaning. It encourages users to reflect, think, and write creatively, allowing them to leave imperfect little marks on the paper.

Click Here to Buy Now: $29.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Kintsugi Plain Notebook urges you to note down your happy memories or creative ideas with total freedom. The notebook is built from sustainable bagasse paper, and it embodies your inner healing, as well as the healing of the planet.

What we like

  • Perfectly represents the beauty and essence of Japanese culture
  • The black cover showcases lovely branch-like golden lines

What we dislike

  • It is only available in a plain paper version and doesn’t have a lined variant

2. Forest Crayons

Forest Crayons is a project that utilizes the pigments extracted from different recycled forest trees, and then merges them with other sustainable ingredients to create crayons. Each crayon has a different shade, influenced by the species of recycled tree, and the way it was grown. For magnolia, they’ve created a light green color, while there is a deep turquoise for fungus-stained wood.

Why is it noteworthy?

The different pigments are combined with wood, rice wax, and rice oil. The Forest Crayons set includes ten colors: Bayberry, Bogwood, Cedar, Chinaberry, Cybress, Hazenoki, Katsura, Kaizuka, Magnolia, and Zelkova.

What we like

  • Designed to “breathe new life into Japanese wood”, creating an appreciation for the country’s forests

What we dislike

  • Unsure how dark and long-lasting the colors will be

3. Inseparable Notebook Pen

Named the Inseparable Note Book Pen, this stationery design is the ultimate companion to your notebook. It perfectly combines with your notebook, helping you note your thoughts, ideas, and memories. It has a subtle and minimal design, a comfortable grip, and a harmonious ink flow, allowing it to be more than just a writing tool.

Click Here to Buy Now: $17.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The pen is sophisticated and yet simple. It is a natural and harmonious extension of the book and has a sleek form which makes it great for effortless writing. The pen is an embodiment of the timeless and classic aesthetic everyone adores.

What we like

  • Creates a smooth and seamless writing experience for you
  • Has a compact form that easily gets attached to your notebook

What we dislike

  • It is placed outside the notebook, allowing it to get stained faster

4. Bento Jot

Say hello to the Bento Jot! This modern stationery set is designed to support you on your creative journey. The set is inspired by a Bento Box, and it includes 12 writing tools. The 3-layer bento box design is unique and appealing! It includes 3 layers – the Øver layer, the Mid layer, and the Base layer. All the layers include tools for handwritten notes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The 12 tools were designed specially for the Bento Jot. The tools have been built from premium materials, creating a satisfying tactile feel. The Mid-layer even includes a lovely vegan leather carrying case!

What we like

  • It has a Japandi-inspired emotive design

What we dislike

  • The entire box could be inconvenient to carry around

5. Japanese Memo Block

Named the Japanese Memo Block, this compact design is the perfect place to write down your creative and exciting thoughts, so that none of them escape you. It has an easy-to-carry form, so you can take it almost anywhere with you, ensuring you never lose any of the wonderful ideas that come into your mind.

Click Here to Buy Now: $20.00

Why is it noteworthy?

With the Japanese paper Memo Block, you can note down your priceless thoughts the minute they get into your head. You can jot them down before you get distracted all over again. It has quite a small footprint, so you can easily carry it wherever you go.

What we like

  • Features a pure black/white surface which is a great space for your creative thoughts
  • Made from high-quality Japanese paper

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically it does look like an ordinary notepad with nothing special

6. Quick Access Pencil Sharpener Stand

Meet the Quick Access Pencil Sharpener Stand – it lets you eliminate dull pencils, as this sharpener is present whenever you need it, and it holds your pencil for you too. The design is disc-shaped, and works as a pencil sharpener and a pencil stand, making it the ideal stationery product.

Click Here to Buy Now: $55.00

Why is it noteworthy?

It is equipped with a brass mechanism that prevents the wooden cover from opening by mistake and spilling the shavings within. It keeps your favorite pencil always sharp and within reach.

What we dislike

  • Functions as a sharpener and a sophisticated pen stand
  • Features a specially angled sharpener which makes the pencil last longer

What we dislike

  • The product doesn’t look very portable to carry around

7. Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Scissors

These are the Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Scissors! The handcrafted scissors are inspired by the motifs of famous Japanese samurai swords of the past. They are a special series of scissors that adopt the design and form of different popular Japanese swords. These swords were used by different heroes and legends during the Sengoku Jidai or Warring States Era(1467-1568) in English or the Bakumatsu period at the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Samurai scissors adopt the different motifs of the sheath designs, swords, and the house seals of different warriors. The scissors have been handcrafted by craftsmen, and they are made one by one.

What we like

  • Compact products that are made in Japan

What we dislike

  • They can only be used to cut paper, not strong enough to cut anything else

8. Sushi Eraser

Designed by Iwako, these adorable erasers are a must-have for sushi lovers! The erasers are available in all kinds of sushi – from Salmon Egg sushi to Cuttlefish sushi and even Nigiri Shrimp sushi. The resemblance to actual sushi pieces is uncanny, and each element of the erase is a puzzle piece and can be taken apart and then put together.

Why is it noteworthy?

The erasers bring Japanese culture and sushi fever to your boring desk, and they’re also perfect for stocking stuffers, decorations, and fun little games. The erasers are eco-friendly and made in Japan. They’ve been put together by hand!

What we like

  • Economically priced
  • Represent all the different varieties of sushi, with loads of choices available

What we dislike

  • We are unsure how efficient the erasers will be at erasing, they do look more decorative than functional

9. ONEBOX

Named the ONEBOX, this little woodworking design merges different tools into a fascinating interlocking Jenga-like stationery box. The box utilizes the same traditional mortise and tenon joining technique that was used to construct massive buildings in ancient times. Once the ONEBOX has been put together, it looks like any regular wooden box!

Why is it noteworthy?

When you pull the pieces of the box apart, you realize that each piece is a stationery tool or a fidget toy. The multi-part storage box is built from poplar, beech, or black walnut wood, showcasing a warm and wooden aesthetic. The various wooden pieces can be converted into a container for your stationery as a phone stand or even an adjustable ruler!

What we like

  • The pieces feature flawless tenon and mortise joints
  • Serves as much more than just an ordinary stationery box

What we dislike

  • You have to ensure you don’t lose a piece, or else you’ll have trouble putting the box together again

10. Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Letter Opener

Another important addition to a desk is a letter opener, and we just discovered a Samurai-style letter opener for you! The Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Letter Opener is inspired by the iconic Japanese Samurai Katana, and it is a compact and functional stationery piece for your work desk, especially if you’re a lover of Japanese culture.

Why is it noteworthy?

The letter opener adopts the essence of the old legendary swords of famous leaders from history. Each sword is built by specialist masters of their craft, delivering a quality that is truly unmatched and special.

What we like

  • Handcrafted with a perfected edge

What we dislike

  • It can only be used to open a letter, it isn’t as sharp as a knife

The post Top 10 Sleek & Stylish Japanese-Influenced Stationery For A Zen & Organized Desk Setup first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Kitchen Tools You Need To Master The Meticulous & Delicious Art Of Japanese Cooking

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Are you someone who loves Japanese cuisine? Is a bowl of hot steaming ramen or some fresh sashimi your go-to meal?! Well, then you’ve reached the right spot. As delicious as Japanese food is, preparing it takes a lot of care, finesse, and attention to detail. And if you want to master Japanese cooking, or well at least be able to prepare a decent bowl of donburi, then you need the right kitchen tools to assist you. We’ve curated a collection of ingenious and well-designed kitchen tools that are essential if you’re preparing some Japanese meals. From a precision ceramic sashimi knife to a portable bento box-style rice cooker – these are the must-have kitchen products you need to cook up some delicious Japanese food!

1. Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife

Named the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife, this sleek and stunning kitchen tool defines Japanese craftsmanship and perfection. The knife was built with advanced technology and utmost care, forming an exceptional tool that enhances the culinary art of preparing sashimi.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299.00

Why is it noteworthy?

Using the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife, you can cut through delicate pieces of sashimi with complete ease, without causing any damage to the soft pieces of fish. The knife works with complete ease and precision, amped with a lightweight and sharp blade. Since it is made from ceramic, it doesn’t need sharpening consistently.

What we like

  • You can slice and prepare sashimi with the finesse of an expert Japanese swordsman
  • You can prepare delicate and aesthetically pleasing dishes

What we dislike

  • Fragile as compared to steel knives
  • It can be tough to sharpen if the need arises

2. Supreme Daikon Radish Grater

Meet the Supreme Daikon Radish Grater – a meticulously crafted grater created for those who appreciate fine kitchen tools. The grater is excellent for grating daikon, and it features a 1.5mm thick stainless steel grating surface that is durable and easy to maintain. The Daikon Radish Grater is equipped with traditional Hon-Meguri diagonal sharp blades and innovative Quattro blades.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Supreme Daikon Radish Grater offers an effortless and stress-free grating experience. Each grater is crafted by skilled Japanese artisans, and each one is a masterpiece of the traditional Hon-Meguri technique. It is a time-honored method that includes using a sharp chisel (tagane) to carve each blade into the thick metal plate.

What we like

  • Features exceptionally sharp and durable blades

What we dislike

  • Might not be efficient for other veggies

3. Mt. Fuji Cutlery Rests

This lovely cutlery set is inspired by Japan’s most iconic summit – Mt.Fuji. This cutlery set serves as a luxurious metal accessory to amp up your Japanese-style meals. They have a simple form with detailed and intricate engravings. They’re lavish tableware accents, created with fine craftsmanship.

Click Here to Buy Now: $219

Why is it noteworthy?

The cutlery isn’t just a flat block of metal, the pieces slope slightly upwards towards the middle, creating a flat stump at the peak, instantly reminding you of Mt.Fuji. The curves are also excellent for supporting knives, forks, spoons or chopsticks.

What we like

  • The pretty cutlery also captures Japan’s seasons of yielding cherry blossoms
  • Created as a tribute to Japanese craftsmanship

What we dislike

  • The cutlery set can only hold two utensils, a limited design

4. PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs

Meet the PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs – these innovative kitchen tools are shaped like chopsticks and are great for preparing Japanese meals with speed and efficiency. You can pick up small pieces of food with complete ease, while also allowing you to prepare small, well-balanced meals for multiple people.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Chopstick Tongs are a great option for creating bento boxes or even eating sushi, which are popular Japanese food items. The tongs are also pretty easy to hold and use.

What we like

  • Built from sustainable SUS821L1 stainless steel which is derived from scraps and offcuts

What we dislike

  • The tongs aren’t great for picking larger pieces and cuts of food

5. Ishiyaki Set

Named the Ishiyaki Set, this kitchen appliance allows you to create an authentic and surreal Japanese dining experience in your home. You can prepare food in true teppanyaki style! The set functions as a tabletop stone grill, and you can prepare the meat just the way you like it.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Ishiyaki Set recreates the Benihana experience in your home, and you can dry-sear your food before you eat it. It is equipped with a board with an additional porcelain tray to hold your food, as well as two bowls to hold your soy sauce and wasabi, creating the ultimate modern teppanyaki experience for you.

What we like

  • Creates the Benihana-style teppanyaki experience to your home
  • Ideal for dry-searing sashimi-style seafood like Tuna, Salmon, or Scallops, or meats like beef

What we dislike

  • Bulky, space-consuming design better suited for homes with loads of space

6. The Stacking Sake Drinkware

Drinking Sake is extremely common in Japanese culture, whether in social settings or at formal ceremonies. The Stacking Sake Drinkware is an unusual sake drinking cup made from authentic tin – serving as a unique and distinctive drinking cup set. Tin is a good material choice as it absorbs impurities and purifies water.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299.00

Why is it noteworthy?

Tin is truly the perfect material choice for cold sake, as it provides a soft and comfy texture for hands, allowing you to handle the glass with ease, while also making the sake taste smooth and mellow.

What we like

  • The bowl-shaped vessels can be stacked easily on top of each other
  • Elegant and pleasing aesthetics thanks to their smooth curves

What we dislike

  • Stacked pieces might topple easily

7. Rassen Chopsticks

Designed by Nendo for Hashikura Matsuskan, these unique chopsticks are called the Rassen (spiral) chopsticks, and they’re great for consuming Japanese food. The chopsticks are the perfect culmination of fun and functionality – the chopsticks form one single unit when combined, and they can also be pulled apart when needed.

Why is it noteworthy?

Bringing the chopsticks together and then separating them feels like you’re playing with a jigsaw puzzle. Using the chopsticks becomes a fun and interactive experience, bringing joy to your daily meal. And since you can easily combine the pair, you never have to live in fear of losing one!

What we like

  • The chopsticks are whimsical and functional
  • They’re handmade by artisans

What we dislike

  • Since the design is new and novel, it can take some time to get used to using them

8. Plate Grater

Named the Plate Grater, this small product looks like a tiny plate and can be used on the table. You can use the grater to grate fresh garnishes and ingredients into your meal. You can even use it to prepare some fresh wasabi to accompany your sushi. The product combines the functionality of a plate with a grater.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

Why is it noteworthy?

It is equipped with dual functionality and is quite an aesthetically pleasing design. You can elevate your basic meal with some fresh garnishes.

What we like

  • An excellent design grating fresh ingredients onto your meal, and adding a gourmet touch

What we dislike

  • It may take a while for users to adjust to it and use it

9. Hinoki Essence Cutting Board

Called the Hinoki Essence Cutting Board – this stunning wooden cutting board is great for a hassle-free food-cutting experience. The board is made from the hinoki cypress, and it has a medium hardness which offers resistance without damaging knives. The cutting board has a minimal and appealing appearance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The cutting board has a simple yet lovely look, and since it is made using cypress wood, it pairs up perfectly with the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife.

What we like

  • Made from Hinoki Cypress Wood which isn’t very harsh on knives
  • Features a water-resistant silicone coating which prevents damage

What we dislike

  • You need special care to maintain it, which can be tedious

10. Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker

Named the Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker, this portable cooker prepares a bowl of warm rice for you whenever you need it. It features a compact and portable size, and cooks single-serve rice in a short amount of time. Once your rice is ready, the light glows.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cooker is excellent for those who like to travel often and need a fresh bowl of rice for dinner. You can prepare six ounces of rice in one go, and it has a measuring cup for convenience.

What we like

  • Features a portable and easy-to-carry design
  • The rice can be eaten straight from the container

What we dislike

  • Lacks a variety of choices in sizes and colors

The post Top 10 Kitchen Tools You Need To Master The Meticulous & Delicious Art Of Japanese Cooking first appeared on Yanko Design.

Crayons from Japan’s recycled trees highlights the country’s forests

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When you think of wood, the color that immediately comes to mind is brown since that’s what most of us have seen in the trees near our abodes or even when we travel. But it’s not the only color that we can extract from it, specifically from various species of forest trees. With 2//3 of Japan covered with trees and a lot of these forests remaining unharvested and unmaintained, it’s interesting to see what sustainable products can be made out of these trees.

Designer Name: Playfool

Forest Crayons is a project that uses the pigments extracted from various recycled forest trees and mixes them with other sustainable ingredients to turn them into crayons. Each one has a different shade that is based on the species of the recycled tree as well as how it was cultivated and grown. For example, you get a light green color for magnolia and a deep turquoise of fungus stained wood.

The pigments extracted are mixed with wood, rice wax, and rice oil to produce the different crayons. There are ten crayons available in the Forest Crayons set: Bayberry, Bogwood, Cedar, Chinaberry, Cybress, Hazenoki, Katsura, Kaizuka, Magnolia, and Zelkova. Some names should be familiar to most people but there are species that are native to Japan and some that have Japanese names.

Forest Crayons are actually supported by the Japanese Forest Agency and aside from producing these from recycled trees, they also want to “breathe new life into Japanese wood” so that people will have a new appreciation for the country’s forests. I would prefer the triangular shape of the crayons shown in the product shots but it makes sense of course to have them in the traditional crayon shape for functional reasons.

The post Crayons from Japan’s recycled trees highlights the country’s forests first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Japanese-Inspired Cooking Accessories To Bring Minimalist Functionality To Your Kitchen

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Japanese design has a soft place in my heart, and for good reason. It is quintessentially functional, thoughtful, and pretty-looking too! I have a soft spot for Japanese product designs as they always manage to be – simple, sophisticated, and high-value. I love incorporating Japanese products in my home space, they have such a soothing effect and can add an elegant touch to any home. I also enjoy using Japanese kitchen appliances and tools. Not only are they adorable to look at and gentle to use, but they’re also high on functionality and very rarely give you any trouble. They’re foolproof designs that you can depend on to tackle your cooking prep and other kitchen tasks, and we’ve curated some top-notch Japanese kitchen tools for you!

1. Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife

Dubbed the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife, this kitchen tool is the epitome of Japanese craftsmanship and a revolutionary design. It is created with care, thoughtfulness, and advanced technology. This exceptional knife is designed to elevate the culinary art of sashimi, allowing it to serve as an important tool for professional chefs and culinary lovers.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The sleek ceramic knife lets you cut through delicate sashimi with ease, without damaging the soft pieces of fish. It functions with effortless ease and precision. It features a lightweight and sharp blade, and the use of ceramic requires minimal maintenance and doesn’t require constant sharpening.

What we like

  • Slices through sashimi with the finesse of an expert Japanese swordsman
  • Helps in preparing aesthetically appealing and delicious dishes

What we dislike

  • Fragile as compared to steel knives
  • It can be difficult to sharpen if the need arises

2. Mitsubishi Bread Oven

Named the Mitsubishi Bread Oven, this waffle maker-looking toaster will prepare the perfect toast for you. It has a classy veneer brown appearance, which seems to be right out of the ’80s. The toaster features a sealed thermal-insulated structure, letting you toast the perfect toast without releasing any moisture.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Bread Oven features two plates that can handle temperatures as high as 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The plates are quite handy, as they seal the bread slice and transfer the heat to it, preparing a soft and fluffy slice of toast for you, that isn’t dry at all.

What we like

  • Features four handy cooking settings – Toast, Frozen Toast, Topping, and French Toast
  • Elegant and good-looking appliance, which doesn’t look like an eye-sore on your dinner table or kitchen counter

What we dislike

  • It can only toast a single piece of bread, which isn’t very efficient
  • Bread with low sugar content takes longer to toast

3. PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs

Named the PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs, these unique little tongs are shaped like chopsticks. They’re great for picking up small pieces of food, supporting you with portion control, and preventing you from overeating. You can even turn the tongs over on the pan, letting you prepare meals like a pro chef.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Chopsticks Tongs are excellent for putting together bento boxes or eating sushi. The tongs are quite easy to use, and there is no wrong way to hold and use the tool.

What we like

  • Made from sustainable SUS821L1 stainless steel which is derived from scraps and offcuts

What we dislike

  • Difficult to use for larger pieces and cuts, only ideal for smaller food items

4. Ishiyaki Set

Called the Ishiyaki Set, this kitchen appliance brings an authentic and fascinating Japanese dining experience to your home, letting you prepare food in true teppanyaki style. It functions as a tabletop stone grill, allowing you to cook your meat the way you like it, in a personalized grilling set.

Why is it noteworthy?

It brings the Benihana experience to your home, letting you dry-sear your food before you eat it. It features a board with an additional porcelain tray to hold your food, as well as two bowls to hold your soy sauce and wasabi, creating the ultimate modern teppanyaki experience for you.

What we like

  • It brings the Benihana-style teppanyaki experience to your home
  • Ideal for dry-searing sashimi-style seafood like Tuna, Salmon, or Scallops, or meats like beef

What we dislike

  • Bulky, space-consuming design

5. Playful Palm Grater

Named the Playful Palm Grater, this compact little grater will add some whimsical yet functional fun to your dining experience. The grater is designed to fit into the palm of your hand, and you can nicely grate fresh ingredients into your food, elevating your meal to a gourmet-level experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The palm grater looks like a curled piece of paper, and it is made from a single aluminum alloy plate. You can make your pick, as the grater is available in a variety of cool colors. You can select the one that suits your kitchen and personal taste.

What we like

  • Provides a firm grip, and is pretty easy to use
  • It converts the tedious act of grating into something exciting and fun

What we dislike

  • The grater’s size is quite cute and handy, but it doesn’t have the best design to grate large amounts of food

6. Rassen Chopsticks

The Rassen (spiral chopsticks) are designed by Nendo for Hashikura Matsukan. They are the perfect combination of fun and functionality, forming a product that is truly Japanese. You can combine the chopsticks together creating one convenient single unit, and you can pull them apart when needed.

Why is it noteworthy?

Bringing the chopsticks together and then separating them feels like you’re playing with a jigsaw puzzle. Using the chopsticks becomes a fun and interactive experience, bringing joy to your daily meal. And since you can easily combine the pair, you never have to live in fear of losing one!

What we like

  • Merges fun and functionality to form an interesting product
  • It is handmade by artisans

What we dislike

  • The design is quite new and unlike traditional chopsticks, and it can take a while to get used to them

7. Plate Grater

Called the Plate Grater, this tiny product looks like a little plate and can be set on the table. Once put on the table, you can use it to grate fresh ingredients into your meal. It merges the functionality of a plate with a grater. You can add fresh garnishes to your meal, preparing gourmet-style dishes.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

Why is it noteworthy?

The Plate Grater features dual functionality and is a visually pleasing design, which lets you elevate your basic meal with some fresh garnishes.

What we like

  • Excellent for grating fresh ingredients onto your meal, and adding a gourmet touch

What we dislike

  • It may take a while for users to adjust to it and use it

8. Slim Fold Dish Rack

Say hello to the Slim Fold Dish Rack! This unique dish rack is portable, and you can carry it everywhere with you. It has a patent-pending spring mechanism which can be easily adjusted and drunk. You can deploy the dish rack when needed, making it super easy to set up and utilize.

Click Here to Buy Now: $75.00

Why is it noteworthy?

It features a minimal and sturdy design, which offers adequate ventilation, and makes more than enough space to store utensils, plates, and different cookware. The dish rack is an excellent product for your kitchen or for camping outdoors.

What we like

  • Easy to clean, maintain, and set up
  • Has a flexible collapsible form that you can carry anywhere with you

What we dislike

  • The wires of the rack are thin, making it tough to hold utensils

9. Hinoki Essence Cutting Board

Meet the Hinoki Essence Cutting Board – a beautiful wooden cutting board that offers you a hassle-free food-cutting experience. It is made from majestic hinoki cypress, and it is amped with a medium hardness which provides resistance without damaging knives. The cutting board has a minimal and visually appealing appearance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Hinoki Essence Cutting Board has a simple yet stunning aesthetic, and the use of premium cypress wood makes it the perfect companion to the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife. Pair up the two to have a stunning and functional duo for all your cutting needs.

What we like

  • Built from Hinoki Cypress Wood which is not too harsh on knives
  • It has a water-resistant silicone coating which prevents damage

What we dislike

  • Requires special care to maintain it, which can be tedious

10. Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker

Dubbed the Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker, this portable cooker allows you to cook up a bowl of warm rice whenever needed. The cooker has a small portable size, and it is designed to cook single-serve rice in a short duration of time. The light glows once your bowl of rice is cooked.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cooker is excellent for those who like to travel often and need a fresh bowl of rice for dinner. You can prepare six ounces of rice in one go, and it has a measuring cup for convenience.

What we like

  • It has a portable and easy-to-carry design
  • You can eat rice right from the corner

What we dislike

  • There doesn’t seem to be a variety of choices in sizes and colors

The post Top 10 Japanese-Inspired Cooking Accessories To Bring Minimalist Functionality To Your Kitchen first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nendo Installs A Carbon-Capturing Wall In A Contemporary Japanese Home

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Most of our modern infrastructure and architecture is bad on concrete, and the production of cement used in concrete is one of the biggest causes of worldwide carbon dioxide emissions. This constitutes a serious issue that must be addressed, especially with the current state of our Planet Earth. In this effort, Nendo displays a specimen of a greener and cleaner way to construct and build with its Block-Wall House. The Block-Wall House is partially built using a new concrete that captures carbon dioxide instead of emitting it!

Designer: Nendo & Kajima Corporation

Tucked away in Japan’s Nagano Prefecture, the Block-Wall House is located next to a rural road. The house features a lot of glazing, to offer privacy against pedestrians and passing vehicles. The home is equipped with an angled screen which lets residents look out but makes it quite difficult for a passerby to glance inside. This screen is made using 2000 blocks which have been arranged in parallel rows to form five walls, with a length of 360 feet. This screen is made from the aforementioned sustainable and novel concrete!

This newly developed concrete is made by the Kajima Corporation in collaboration with the Chugoku Electric Power Co, Denka, and Landes Co. The concrete is named CO2-SUICOM, and for its production, a special cement mixture is placed in a curing chamber, and carbon dioxide is pumped into the chamber for absorption. This absorbed CO2 gets stuck inside the concrete and is not released. It is as strong as regular concrete!

“Generally, concrete hardens through a chemical reaction between cement and water,” explains Kajima Corporation. “But with CO2-SUICOM, over half the cement is replaced with a material we call γ-C2S. Instead of reacting with water, γ-C2S reacts with the CO2 in the air to harden. After mixing the materials needed to create CO2-SUICOM, the concrete can be placed in a location with high CO2 levels so it can capture the CO2 and harden, trapping the gas inside. For example, a thermal power plant or other facility that produces carbon-heavy exhaust gases can redirect the gases into a carbon sequestration chamber, where concrete products made with CO2-SUICOM can be placed to capture the CO2 in the gases.”

Currently, the price of producing CO2-SIUCOM concrete is about three times higher than usual concrete in Japan. Hence, work is being done to bring down the price, and Kajima Corporation believes that the concrete will become more economical in the future.

The post Nendo Installs A Carbon-Capturing Wall In A Contemporary Japanese Home first appeared on Yanko Design.

Japanese-inspired furniture line is made from recyclable, colorful fabric

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There are pieces of furniture that serve their purpose in your living space even if they’re not always that well-designed. Then there are those that you don’t really understand what they’re for but they’re just so pretty or fits into your aesthetic that you just know you need to have them. Of course if those pieces are also sustainable and eco-friendly, that’s a great bonus. Well, it would also be great if they can actually do what they’re supposed to do while looking pretty and saving the earth.

Designer: Nendo for Paola Lenti

Italian furniture brand Paola Lenti unveiled their collaboration with Japanese design firm Nendo at the Milan Design Week. The Hanara-shi series of furnishings and complements look like art pieces at first glance. Their shapes and designs are inspired by Japanese culture of course, specifically the cherry trees that are starting to be in full bloom in Japan right now. There’s also some inspiration from ancient samurai armours if you look closely at the fabrics and patterns.

While their colors are really attractive and eye-catching, I couldn’t figure out at first what they were supposed to be. But upon closer inspection (of the photos and the website), there are suspended lamps, baskets, floor lamps, armchairs, and poufs/ottomans included in the collection. The fabric used is Maris mesh which is recyclable and made from 100% polypropylene waterproof material. Unlike other furniture which starts from the design, this one started from showing the fabric that they will be designing and that’s when the ideas started to flow.

Since the material is rigid, marbled in colour but textured, flexible, and malleable, they were able to fold and wrap them on themselves to create this line of products. There are of course welded elements to put them all together but the main star of this Hanara-shi series is definitely the fabric and how they designed it to create these pieces of furniture. The upholstery and inlays used are also recovered cutoffs from previous processes so you can say that not only are they beautiful but they’re also friendly to the earth.

The post Japanese-inspired furniture line is made from recyclable, colorful fabric first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Japanese Desk Gear To Achieve Peak Desk Productivity

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Irrespective if you’re working at home or in commercial life, both these scenarios involve a desk! A desk is probably one of the most important pieces of furniture in our modern lives, only because we spend the majority of our day on it. You may be typing away to glory, munching away on a snack, or simply fidgeting with a random object – you do end up spending hours on your desk. And hence, your desk must be neat, tidy, and uncluttered. Not only will this improve your work routine and productivity, but it will also help you maintain a clearer and more streamlined mindset. And, I’ve discovered that adding limited, quality, and innovative products to my desk setup can help me in achieving these goals! And if they’re Japanese products then rest assured they’re gonna be minimal, functional, and ergonomic. And we’ve curated a collection of smart and well-designed desk gear to help you achieve peak productivity. Happy working!

1. Levitating Pen 3.0

Dubbed the Levitating Pen, this sleek writing accessory features a Schmidt ballpoint cartridge, letting you hold it with ease, and write seamlessly and smoothly. The pen floats at a 60-degree angle when it is resting in its specially designed stand, which instantly reminds you of a spacecraft floating about in the galaxy!

Click Here to Buy Now: $129

Why is it noteworthy?

This good-looking pen can be placed in its magnetized holder, which keeps it floating in position. You simply need to give the pen a little twist, and it will spin for 20 seconds, letting you have a playful experience with it.

What we like

  • Easy and sturdy to hold and use
  • Spinning the pen can be a fun stress-busting activity for you

What we dislike

  • When placed on a curved surface the pen can easily roll off, so you need to keep it aside with care

2. Bookish Bookmark

Have you ever found yourself browsing through your favorite book on your desk, and you want to leave it open while you quickly grab a snack or a drink, but you can’t find anything to mark your place with?! Well, this is where the Bookish Bookmark comes in. It is a unique acrylic bookmark that also looks like a book!

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

Why is it noteworthy?

The second you look at the Bookish Bookmark, you know it is no ordinary bookmark. It is created to sit on your book, keeping it open for you as you sip some coffee, or chomp down on your favorite snacks. It lets you read while conducting other activities, but also ensures that the natural curved form of your book isn’t harmed.

What we like

  • Protects the natural curved form of your book, doesn’t damage its binding or ruin its shape
  • Lets you multitask while reading, you can sew or cook!

What we dislike

  • If you place the bookmark on your desk unused, it won’t lay completely flat

3. Serenity Pen Stand

Called the Serenity Pen Stand, this Japanese minimalist design exudes a metallic hint and is created to hold your pen upright, keeping it ready to use. This pen stand ensures that you never really lose your pen, since pens can be easy to misplace, it keeps your pen in sight always.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39

Why is it noteworthy?

This minimal and sleek pen stand offers constant easy access to your pen, and making sure that you never lose it. Made using aluminum and copper, it functions as a well-balanced cylinder, that is designed to add a pop of personality and Japanese design ethos to your desk.

What we like

  • Features a sleek minimal design that is easy to set up, use, and carry
  • Equipped with a heavy copper bottom, offering a stable form

What we dislike

  • Since the pen stand is quite minimal and compact, it can be easily misplaced
  • There aren’t many color options to choose from

4. World Clock

If you’re someone who always ends up procrastinating, and often loses track of time, then the World Clock is what you need on your desk. It isn’t your everyday desk clock, and it has a unique dodecagonal shape with a single hand and a minimalist face. The innovative clock presents 12 time zones!

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

Why is it noteworthy?

With a unique design and form, the World Clock not only offers the correct information about your country, but also extra details on the time in other parts of the world. At first glance, you can tell the hour, but with a closer look, you can figure out which quarter of the hour it is.

What we like

  • Has 12 sides with individual markings for a city that represents a certain timezone

What we dislike

  • It features only 12 set time zones, so you will be missing out on some time zones

5. Mecricco Catch

Called the Mecricco Catch, these elastic page-turning aids are designed by Plus, and let you turn your paper products with ease. The aids feature an outer rib, which lets you hold the paper firmly, while the inner rib doesn’t let your fingers slip while you’re flipping through pages.

Why is it noteworthy?

These page-turning aids have a concave curve at the bottom, which lets you move your fingers around as you flip through pages. It has holes that offer ventilation, giving your fingers some room to breathe.

What we like

  • An excellent option for those who have fancy nail jobs, and need to protect their fingers as they flip through pages

What we dislike

  • Not a necessary item, if you’ve gone completely digital

6. The Scissors w/ Base

Dubbed the Scissors w/ Base, these unique scissors are equipped with a magnetic base which makes the design a cutting-edge one. This innovative design allows you to completely reshape and jazz up your workspace organization, making sure your scissors aren’t lying around creating clutter.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

Why is it noteworthy?

The scissors’ feature a magnet base which is a total game-changer, snagging a VIP spot on your desk. They are crafted from lustrous Japanese steel, and besides functioning as a pretty nifty tool, they also make a sleek and good-looking addition to your desk decor.

What we like

  • The magnetic base can be utilized as a dedicated spot for your scissors
  • Equipped with a built-in cutter, which is quite an innovative forward-thinking detail we appreciate

What we dislike

  • Cannot function as an alternative to the heavy-duty scissors you need for difficult tasks

7. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter

Dubbed the Effortless Standing Letter Cutter, this nifty tool is something you defo need on your work desk. This simple tool can totally elevate your daily productivity and ensure you have a clean and well-maintained desk. The letter cutter also doubles up as a paperweight!

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

Why is it noteworthy?

The Effortless Standing Letter Cutter completely transforms an ordinary and standard office tool. You can cut through paper efficiently and effectively, while also functioning as a paperweight. It is an excellent solution for boosting productivity!

What we like

  • The letter cutter cuts precisely leaving no mess behind
  • Doubles up as a paperweight as well, maintaining an organized desk

What we dislike

  • The letter cutter is not versatile enough to deal with intricate mail or bulkier packages

8. Everlasting All-Metal Pencil

Called the Everlasting All-Metal Pencil, this little pencil is an essential addition to your work desk. You can now bid farewell to the mundane cycle of pencil sharpening and dealing with annoying mechanical leads. You can harness creative ideas, and let them flow freely without any hindrance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $20

Why is it noteworthy?

This special pencil has been crafted with a special alloy core and has an aluminum body that doesn’t need to be sharpened. This pencil is a durable and practical writing instrument, and it leaves marks without causing any wear or tear to the core.

What we like

  • Can be easily erased with regular erases
  • Offers a seamless and smooth writing experience

What we dislike

  • Doesn’t offer the same grip and comfort as traditional wooden pencils

9. Japanese Drawing Pad

Japanese paper is known for its stunning and premium quality and is quite loved by designers and artists. If you want to add some beautiful Japanese paper to your workdesk, then you need to get your hands on the Japanese Drawing Pad!

Click Here to Buy Now: $26

Why is it noteworthy?

This premium-quality pad allows you to jot down your thoughts and ideas without the fear of damaging the durable paper fibers. The pad builds an engaging, smooth, and relaxing writing experience.

What we like

  • The paper is micro-perforated, which makes the paper to tear
  • The pad is available in various colors and sizes, so you can pick the one that suits your drawing needs

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically it looks like an ordinary pad, but the high quality is an experience, nothing something that can be seen

10. ASMR Zen Ball

This cute-looking ball is called the ASMR Zen Ball, and it merges natural and engineered elements to build a space-inspired design that offers a calming experience to its users. It has a meteorite-inspired porous surface which can serve as an excellent absorbent surface for your aroma oils as well.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

It is crafted from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy. It also doubles up as a fidget toy, which offers an interactive experience, allowing users to connect with the natural energy of the earth.

What we like

  • Functions as a fidget toy as well, which offers sensory stimulation

What we dislike

  • If the ball is not attached to the base, it can get rolling due to accidental bumps

The post 10 Best Japanese Desk Gear To Achieve Peak Desk Productivity first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Cooking Supplies To Bring True Japanese Aesthetics, Functionality & Style To Your Kitchen

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Japanese design is just so quintessentially functional, thoughtful, and pretty-looking too! I have a soft spot for Japanese product designs as they always manage to be – simple, sophisticated, and high-value. I love incorporating Japanese products in my home space, they have such a soothing effect and can add an elegant touch to any home. I also enjoy using Japanese kitchen appliances and tools. Not only are they adorable to look at and gentle to use, but they’re also high on functionality and very rarely give you any trouble. They’re foolproof designs that you can depend on to tackle your cooking prep and other kitchen tasks, and we’ve curated some top-notch Japanese kitchen tools for you!

1. Mitsubishi Bread Oven

Mitsubishi’s Bread Oven is created to serve you the perfect toast! Looking like an adorable waffle maker, the toaster features a veneer brown look that seems to be straight out of the ’80s. It has a sealed thermal-insulated structure and can toast your bread without releasing any moisture, preparing a soft and fluffy toast for you!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Bread Oven is equipped with two plates that can go up to temperatures as high as even 500 degrees Fahrenheit. These nifty plates seal the piece of bread, transferring heat to it, and creating a slice of toast that is anything but dry.

What we like

  • It has four cooking settings – Toast, Frozen Toast, Topping, and French Toast
  • Sleek good looks, making it a great fit for your dining table

What we dislike

  • You can only toast one slice of bread at a time, which can be inconvenient
  • It takes longer to toast bread with low sugar content

2. Slim Fold Dish Rack

Named the Slim Fold Dish Rack, this innovative dish rack has a portable design, allowing you to carry it anywhere with you. It features a patent-pending spring mechanism, that lets you adjust and shrink the rack from 14″ to 1.2″ in no time. The rack can be easily deployed, making it quick to set up and use.

Click Here to Buy Now: $75.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Slim Fold Dish Rack has a minimalist yet durable design, perfectly capturing the highlights of Japanese design. It ensures adequate ventilation and offers plenty of space for cookware, utensils, and plates of any shape and size. Since it has a convenient portable form, it is great for camping outdoors too.

What we like

  • Collapsible and flexible form that ensures clean and dry utensils in the nick of time
  • Portable design that is easy to clean and dishwasher friendly

What we dislike

  • Since the rack has slim wires, it’s not the best option to hold heavy utensils like pots and plans

3. Black Kitchen Knives

These Black Kitchen Knives are fashionable and sophisticated featuring a sleek black blade that makes them stand out from other typical knives. The black sheen offers the knives a refined look, adding a touch of Japanese class to your kitchen and cooking process. They’re the upgrade you need from your mundane knives.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The Black Kitchen Knives feature a clean and sleek form, with only a subtle “i” logo, ensuring there are no loud distractions on its body. The knives remind you of a ninja in the shadows, which goes straight for the kill, cutting your ingredients with stealth, grace, and deadly precision.

What we like

  • The knives are crafted from molybdenum vanadium steel, making them quite durable and sharp
  • They’ve been coated with titanium to provide increased wear resistance

What we dislike

  • The knives are only available in black, with one uniform design, so there aren’t a lot of colors to choose from to match our kitchen

4. Rassen Chopsticks

Designed by Nendo for Hashikura Matsukan, the Rassen (spiral chopsticks), perfectly marry fun and functionality, to create a product that is quintessentially Japanese. The pair of chopsticks can be attached together to form one convenient single unit, and they can be separated whenever you need to use them.

Why is it noteworthy?

Bringing the chopsticks together and then separating them feels like you’re playing with a jigsaw puzzle. Using the chopsticks becomes a fun and interactive experience, bringing joy to your daily meal. And since you can easily combine the pair, you never have to live in fear of losing one!

What we like

  • The perfect culmination of fun and functionality
  • Handmade by artisans

What we dislike

  • May not be preferred by those who like traditional chopsticks, and could take a while for them to get used to the product’s unique form

5. Iron Frying Plate

If I had to pick one kitchen product that truly captures the sensible yet interesting Japanese design philosophy – I would pick the Iron Frying Plate. This unique kitchen design doubles as a serving plate and a frying pan, all thanks to its innovative removable handle, which allows the product to change forms.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Iron Frying Plate marries both a frying pan and a serving plate to create a functional and unique kitchen tool. Made using durable materials, the plate cooks and serves, while facilitating direct-from-the-pan serving. It introduces an ingenious and novel new way of cooking and serving.

What we like

  • The plate’s wooden handle can be attached and detached, allowing it to double up as a frying pan and serving platter

What we dislike

  • It’s made from iron, making it quite a heavy pan in comparison to traditional frying pans. Hence it could be difficult to store and handle in small kitchens

6. Magemono Tumbler and Bread Tray

The Magemono Tumbler and Bread Tray are beautiful Japanese-style serving dishes. The tumbler features a Hasamiyaki porcelain inner vessel and a Magemono Japanese cedar wood sleeve on the outside. The bread tray is a thin tray crafted from a fir tree and is available in two sizes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The bread tray is perfect for serving those breakfast sandwiches, while the tumbler can hold a brewed cup of coffee. Both the dishes represent the serene and untouched perfection of Japanese craftsmanship, while also providing sustenance to the craftsmen and their families, and also allowing this art to be passed down to younger generations.

What we like

  • Preserves and boasts Japanese craftsmanship
  • The bread tray can even toast the bread for longer according to the designer

What we dislike

  • Available in a single colorway only

7. Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors

Named the Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors, sleek black kitchen shears feature a curved serrated blade that slices through your food in a quick and easy manner. The precise scissors are excellent for cutting up some steak on the dining table, allowing you to showcase your meat-cutting skills.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors have an aura and image of power and style, owing to their jet-black shade. The position they’ll occupy in your kitchen will be impressive and intimidating, while skillfully chopping through veggies, pizza, steak, and more.

What we like

  • The scissors are equipped with a curved serrated blade that cuts meat safely, effortlessly, and swiftly
  • Makes cutting an easy and hassle-free step of the food prep process

What we dislike

  • The scissors are only available in black, so there aren’t many color options to choose from and match with our kitchens

8. Playful Palm Grater

The Playful Palm Grater is what you need to add some Japanese functionality and whimsical fun to your kitchen or dining table. The little grater can fit perfectly into the palm of your hand, marrying fun and functionality to create a product that is lightweight, full of value, and transforms a simple cooking process into an interesting experience.
Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The Playful Palm Grater is a charming and functional product that resembles a curled piece of paper. It is made from a single aluminum alloy plate and is available in different color options. You have a wide range of colors to pick from, allowing you to add a pop of color and sparkle to your boring old kitchen and dinner table.

What we like

  • Has a unique and ergonomic form that offers a strong and sturdy grip
  • Transforms the simple of act grating into a fun and playful experience, while also making it easier

What we dislike

  • The Playful Palm Grater has a tiny size, which isn’t suitable for grating large amounts of food or larger food items

9. PARTAYAKI

The PARTAYAKI is an innovative tabletop grill designed to bring the flavors and experience of a Japanese Steakhouse to your kitchen table. It lets you be the chef, and cook up your own steaks for your friends and family. You don’t need to step out of your home to experience a Japanese Steakhouse.

Why is it noteworthy?

The PARTAYAKI is modeled after the same professional grills that you see in Japanese Steakhouses. It lets you prepare delicious meals and create a Japanese Steakhouse-like experience for your family and friends in the comfort of your own home and kitchen.

What we like

  • Equipped with dipping sauce trays and one-quart hot pots to prepare traditional Chinese-style Hot Pots
  • Features molded chopstick holders

What we dislike

  • It is quite a space-consuming design, so you’ll need sufficient space in your kitchen
  • It does seem a bit difficult to clean and maintain

10. Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker

Meet the Thanko Electric Bento rice cooker – a portable cooker that lets you prepare a bowl of warm rice wherever you are. This little cooker is designed to make rice an omnipresent food item no matter where you go. It is excellent for cooking single-serve rice in a short period of time. The LED light glows once the rice is ready!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Thanko Electric Bento rice cooker is great for those who travel or want fresh rice at the office instead of takeout or repacked meals. The rice cooker can prepare 6 ounces of rice in one go. It even comes with a measuring cup for convenience!

What we like

  • Depending on the ounces of rice, it will be cooked between 14-20 minutes
  • Portable, easy-to-carry design
  • Lets you eat rice straight from the container

What we dislike

  • There doesn’t seem to be variety in sizes and colors

The post Top 10 Cooking Supplies To Bring True Japanese Aesthetics, Functionality & Style To Your Kitchen first appeared on Yanko Design.