Shirai Family

This is one of the last two families in Kyoto making Orin by hand. With a workshop history of 170 years, the art of Sahari Orin has been passed down from generation to generation. The family can only fire the kiln for the Orin every 3–4 months, making each piece rare and precious. On firing days, family members come from all around to help with the long and arduous process of making Orin.

Stone Vases

Hon-Komatsu is traditionally used to make gravestones, but given that the stone is a non-renewable resource and quickly becoming more scarce, the family business behind the Tou Vases uses leftover materials to create one-of-a-kind decor. 

By using the 廃材 (waste material), this series leverages the natural beauty of stone and gives it a second life. It also provides a second source of income for those working in a declining stone industry. 

Saida Kaito

Saida Kaito works with the high-quality granite used by his father, a master tōrō tower maker. By conceptualizing new and creative uses for the stone, he is able to eliminate waste and bring traditional Japanese touches to contemporary homes.

Suzuki Morihisa

The Suzuki Family is one of the most respected families in the iron casting industry, with origins reaching as far back as 1625. The presiding CEO and our direct collaborator, Suzuki Shigeo, has partnered with brands and exhibitions as varied as Apple, Lexus, Suntory, and Honolulu Fashion Week. The Studio’s products are so sought after that it’s not unusual for their works to have a years-long waitlist.