Tokyo Design Week, the 2007 edition, has come and gone, and now we have to deal with the fallout: what we saw, experienced, and enjoyed throughout the weeklong design showcase. Although it truly is an international event, here are a few highlights from some of the Japanese participants.
A new addition to DesignTide this year was the "FROM" exhibition, in which a few of Tokyo's best interior brands/shops set up an outdoor area with new collections of items designed for the house. There was a lot to like from the innovative take on traditional urushi (Japanese lacquerware) by the "Wajima x Kakitsubata" collaboration. The project features the traditional industries of Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, in interesting, non-traditional ways. There were quite a few pieces from the collection on display, but my favorite was Emiko Oki's Hat Plate. With a brim that acts as the plate, the crown of the "hat" can be removed to reveal a warm meal inside. Drop by the Kakitsubata store in Aobadai to see it, and the rest of the collection, for yourself.
1-13-11 Aobadai, Tokyo; (03) 3770-3400; kakitsubataweb.com; wajimaxkakitsubata.com