We are constantly seeking ways to contribute to various problems around the world by using design solutions. This project is one of a great representation of how we approach environmental issues and help to activate or restore local culture. 

Our project was to create a custom made kitchen made of a very special cedar from Japan. The cedar wood used for this project is from Miyagi (Northern Japan), a city hit by an earthquake and Tsunami on March 11, 2011. The actual product was exhibited at DESIGNART TOKYO 2022, one of the most renowned design festivals today in Japan. 

Miyagi is famous for its beautiful nature, specifically for the local cedar wood, which has a unique beauty and quality. Therefore our target was to primarily benefit from local materials and indigenous artisan skills by collaborating with an influential local wood supplier. The concept inspiration comes from Miyagi’s rias coastlines. The core design element is uneven solid wood surfaces carefully crafted and shaped by local artisans, symbolizing the rough natural terrain. Primarily, the kitchen consists of a modular system. Therefore, it becomes a make-to-order product, adjustable to various spaces by connecting the modules, thanks to its flexible design. One of the unique qualities of the crafted wooden plates is their waterproof surface, made by liquid glass coating. 

With this project, we highlight that Japanese cedar trees need high maintenance, in order for the forest to grow in a healthy way. In contrast to deforestation, our forestry is declining gradually and Japan is facing a lack of manpower in the field. local areas need more environmentally conscious decisions, many people’s attention, and human resources to keep the forests healthy. Our main goal is to spread the brilliance of natural materials from Northern Japan to the globe and underline the unique local craftsmanship that still flourishes there. 

This project is not just another design proposal. Instead, it is a peculiar restoration, supporting the bottom-up process by creating a simple formula through the creation.  “The more orders, the more activation in the local area.” 

DESIGN : Design Studio NAO (https://www.designstudionao.com/) 
PRODUCE : Tossanaigh (https://www.kda-sdgr.com/) 
CLIENT : Maruhei Timber (https://maruheitimber.com/ )