DESIGN /
PRODUCT
January 7, 2015
PRODUCT|Tokyo Tips October 2013 BACK ISSUE - A curated selection of new product information.
2013.10.31

From Sweden, via Hasami
Lisa Larson's "Flower Vase" Released
Ceramic artist Lisa Larson, still active at 82, has seen her long-cherished vase design brought to life by Hasami ware (Nishiyama Pottery) in Nagasaki. The "FREJA & HILDA" collection is remarkably minimal, featuring a simple form that resembles two combined vases. The central part is accented with red, blue, gold, and silver, providing a subtle touch that enhances its elegant presence. The names FREJA and HILDA are taken from Lisa's grandchildren, and her signature is on the base. ¥4,725
dieci
http://dieci-cafe.com
2013.10.31

Capture Full Spherical Images!
A Camera for a Unique Visual Experience
The "RICOH THETA" is a revolutionary input device that captures all surrounding scenery (a full sphere) with a single shutter press. Captured images can be transferred to an iPhone (compatible with iOS 6.0 and above) via Wi-Fi for viewing with a dedicated application. They can also be shared on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr. It can store up to 1,200 images. Designed for portability, it weighs just about 95g, achieving an ultra-lightweight body. It offers a novel visual experience for users of any age or skill level. Open price
Ricoh Imaging
Customer Service Center
0570-001313
2013.10.31

Beautiful like a Gift Box, Yet Durable
Document Box Made from Recycled Paper
vivo,va's original "PORTFOLIO BOX" is a paper box made from recycled paper derived from milk cartons. Its strength rivals that of thick cardboard, making it resistant to deformation. It's ideal for storing letters, documents, stationery, or tools, and can be stacked. Available in white, black, and gray, with plain and graphic designs. The graphic designs, created by Roderick Field of "MERCHANT & MILLS," have a unique texture as each is individually stamped with a rubber stamp. Available in two heights. Customization is also recommended. (S) ¥1,890, (L) ¥2,520
vivo,va
http://www.vivova.jp/
2013.10.24

Portable and Wireless
360° Sound Shower
TDK Life on Record introduces the "A360," a Bluetooth wireless portable sound cube featuring a 360° sound shower. This product supports Bluetooth standard Ver. 2.1 with AAC, enabling high-quality wireless audio streaming. Despite its compact body, it houses four full-range drivers, a subwoofer, and a bass-reflex port, delivering powerful sound that spreads in all directions. It features a built-in nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery. Open price
Imation
0120-81-0544
http://www.tdk-media.jp/
2013.10.24

Director: Shinichiroh Hara
ESTEBAN's Japanese Brand Debuts
Founded in Southern France in 1979 by Jean-Max Esteban, the fragrance brand "ESTEBAN" is now loved by people in over 40 countries. A new Japanese-designed original brand, "ESTEBAN DECO EDITION," has now been launched. With Shinichiroh Hara, representative of Landscape Products, serving as director, the aim is to create high-quality, comfortable products for various scenes of daily life. The "Incense Holder 'Fleur'" reproduces traditional French designs and colors, maximizing consideration for the usage scenarios and functions of the incense dish. ¥6,300
ESTEBAN DECO EDITION
deco-edition.jp
2013.10.24

Messages Become Flowers!
Postcards Embedded with Flower Seeds
"ARAHEAM" creates items that add accents to food, clothing, and shelter through experimental endeavors with plants. They propose numerous gardening tools in collaboration with artists who work with ceramics, leather, iron, and wood, engaging in activities linked to greenery. The "BLOOM PAPER" postcard, embedded with various flower seeds in Japanese paper, sprouts cute buds within a few days when covered with soil and watered. The surface of the handmade paper card features graphics inspired by the cross-section of plant stems, expressed through letterpress printing. These warm items are perfect for gifts. ¥693
ARAHEAM
http://araheam.com
2013.10.17

Create Your Own Original Mark Too
Introducing the New "Tepra" with Added Features
The label writer "Tepra," celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, introduces the home model "PRO SR45." It's ideal for labeling belongings, organizing small items, gift wrapping, and marking kitchenware. The LCD screen displays 6 characters by 2 lines for easy viewing. Input methods include Roman character input and kana-mekuri input, and the "Direct Key" allows for easy switching between tasks. Users can choose from three font styles and create their own original marks by combining preferred designs and characters with a new feature. Released on Friday, October 25th. ¥7,140
King Jim Co., Ltd. Customer Service
0120-79-8107
http://www.kingjim.co.jp/
2013.10.17

Dual Function: Heating + Humidifying
±0's Ceramic Fan Heater
"±0 (Plus Minus Zero)" is a Japanese product design label that derives the "inherent form that objects should have" from spaces and human actions, offering products where form, size, and price are all "just right." The "Humidifying Ceramic Fan Heater X210" instantly warms a space with warm air while simultaneously preventing dryness with its humidifying function. Its minimalist design incorporates a user-friendly "auto mode" that manages humidity and temperature for optimal conditions. It also features an energy-saving mode that switches to evaporative humidification when a certain humidity level is reached. Released late October. ¥18,900
±0 Official Website
www.plusminuszero.jp
2013.10.17

The Background of Experimental Works Revealed
Book "nendo ghost shadows"
Three years have passed since the publication of "nendo ghost stories," in which photographer Kenichi Higuchi focused on the production sites of design office "nendo," led by Oki Sato, capturing the valuable behind-the-scenes process of creation. Now, the second installment, "nendo ghost shadows," has been released. This book delves into nendo's activities from 2010-2013, moving through their Meguro office, factories, and overseas exhibition venues. It features not only finished products and exhibition views but also prototypes, packaging, and the surrounding scenery during preparations. A volume packed with highlights. Released Tuesday, October 15th. ¥5,250
ADP Inc.
http://ad-publish.com
2013.10.10

Special LA Edition Added!
The Popular Web Magazine Becomes a Book
Launched in 2011, the web magazine "LIFECYCLING" has featured the lifestyles of people from various professions. Its association with the interior shop IDEE has garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally. It has now been decided that the magazine will be published as a book. The special LA edition includes interviews with four additional individuals, including art director Yasushi Yagi, bringing the total to 16 interviews. This is a definitive collector's edition captured by emerging photographers. "LIFECYCLING: IDEE Visits Homes with Great Views." ¥2,520
LIFECYCLING
http://www.ideelifecycling.com
2013.10.10

Turn Your Home into a Studio!?
A Product to Accelerate Music Production
The "IK Multimedia iRig PRO," an audio MIDI interface usable with both iPhone, iPad, iPod touch and Mac, has been released. Despite its pocket size, it achieves low power consumption and transparent sound. With wide-ranging plug-and-play compatibility, it can be used immediately with iOS apps and free Mac apps without needing to install special drivers. It's a reliable all-in-one audio device for recording, practicing, and composing anytime, anywhere. Open price
Focal Point
Tel. 03-6447-2987
http://www.focal.co.jp/
2013.10.10

The Pioneer of Car Carriers
Renewed with nendo
The car carrier brand "Terzo" celebrates its 30th anniversary with a brand symbol and logo redesign, along with updated product packaging. The design office "nendo" was commissioned for the creative work. To commemorate the renewal, a new roof box, "symmetrick," has been unveiled. Designed to cater to those who prefer a "slow and organic lifestyle," it features a clean and approachable design. Open price
PIAA Corporation
Tel. 0570-050-555
http://www.piaa.co.jp
2013.10.03

Workwear from STUSSY Livin' GENERAL STORE Appears
The lifestyle label "STUSSY Livin' GENERAL STORE," now in its fifth season, presents its latest collection. This season's theme is inspired by unique residents building and living in self-made wood houses in Topanga Canyon, California. This season also marks the debut of a workwear collection made from 14.5oz selvedge denim. The "GS Denim Work Apron," one of the items, is produced by "FUJITO," known for its sewing techniques and sophisticated designs. It's a practical piece that will age beautifully. ¥14,700
STUSSY Livin' GENERAL STORE
www.stussylivin.jp
2013.10.03

The Era of Dimming via App Has Arrived
An Innovative LED Lamp from Philips
"Philips hue" is a next-generation LED lamp that allows intuitive dimming control via a smartphone or tablet app. It can be used in various life scenarios, such as remotely controlling home lighting or setting timers to gradually brighten the room upon waking. Its color range can be expressed in over 16 million colors through combinations of the RGB color model. Additionally, the dedicated app features a unique "Light Recipes" function, allowing users to choose from four preset lighting scenes. Open price
Philips Customer Center
0120-91-4408
2013.10.03

Captivating Craft Beer Enthusiasts
FIELD NOTES Limited Edition
A limited edition notebook from the American stationery brand "FIELD NOTES" has been released. Titled "Drink Local," this item celebrates the American craft beer culture, which prioritizes quality and control over mass production. This release features two types, inspired by "Ale Beer" and "Lager Beer." Upon opening the rubber-like cover, the back cover details the history of each beer, offering insight into their background. Includes letterpress-printed coasters. Set of 3 notebooks. ¥1,200
HIGHTIDE http://www.hightide.co.jp/fieldnotesbrand/