New in the Shop – Unique Objects Handcrafted by ImperfettoLab
New for 2020 are these pieces made by Italian studio ImperfettoLab. Founded by designers Verter Turroni and Emanuela Ravelli in the small comune of Longiano in Italy, here they produce unique sculptural objects and furniture that’s made to make us consider the direct relationship between the n
New at OEN Shop – Abstract Artworks by Artist Maura Segal
I find it interesting that as this project evolves I find myself becoming more concerned about highlighting techniques that otherwise might be concealed. Sometimes it’s difficult to appreciate simplicity as the details are often hiding and have been reduced to the point of abstraction. America
New in the Shop – Handcrafted Iron Work by Readymade Products
Manufactured in Fukuoka, Japan are these beautiful cast iron pots branded under the name Readymade Products, a project that’s led by designer Izumi Yoshida. The Yoshida Mould Factory, founded by Izumi’s grandfather in 1934, produces casting moulds for all types of industrial uses and the
Similar Potential of Things – Portugal Normal by KWY Studio
Back in 2006 one of the most inspiring exhibitions I came across was Jasper Morrison and Naoto Fukasawa’s Super Normal exhibition. It seems like light years ago, but I think this was a tipping point for many of us designers who were already feeling sick of the throwaway culture taking place at
New at OEN Shop – Handcrafted Ceramics by Yoko Ozawa
Yoko Ozawa’s work hit my radar in 2011 and has continued to peak my interest ever since. Last year we met in person and talked about the idea of placing some of her ceramics in the shop. Today is the day we release her first collection! The ‘White Stump’ series references both the
Telling a Story – Under Collection by Hamran & Snøhetta
Ever since Norwegian architect firm Snøhetta’s project titled ‘Under’, Europe’s First Underwater Restaurant, was completed in 2018/2019 it’s been full steam ahead. They’ve really hit a new level success that’s so great to see in this industry. The restaurant it
New in the Shop – Glassware by Japanese Craftsman Mitsui Takeyoshi
Although I feel as though there’s been a strong movement in Europe and America to support more craftsmen, which Instagram can be partly thanked for, there’s always been a steady flow of younger Japanese craftsmen in the background making quietly without too much publicity. Mitsui Takeyoshi i
Tactile Qualities – Pulp Furniture Collection by Serra Studio
An area of craft I’ve been thinking a lot about lately is the potential found in a natural material, wondering whether this is one of the main reasons why makers are drawn to handiwork over other mediums of creative expression. This ability to take a material that has such strong ties to natur
New in the Shop – Ceramics by Japanese Craftsmen Nozomi Fujii
After releasing our first selection of Nozomi Fujii’s work in our shop, which turned out to very popular, we’re happy to introduce a new selection that she’s made for us at OEN. This particular range follows suit with the contemporary grey colour mixed in to the stoneware body. The
New in the Shop – Bags Handcrafted by Mami Nakamura of COMON
COMON are a bag brand headed by Mami Kakamura, a designer and creative based in Tokyo. What drew me to Mami’s work is her ability to mix her passion for modern design and her interest in high craftsmanship. Taking real care and attention when it comes to the overall construction and usability
Rethinking Waste Materials – Anima: Memorial Service by Kosuke Araki
As creatives we often think about our relationship with objects from a human perspective. Why do we connect with such an object? What kind of atmosphere do they give off? But we don’t necessarily think about the components that make up these objects. There’s no doubt that we need to be m
In Homage to Form – Stoneware Sculpture by Amanda Gentry
There’s that interesting intersection between nature and considered design that seems to be overlooked. Isamu Noguchi was a sculptor who had a particular fascination with referencing nature in his work, no doubt inspired by his Japanese heritage and his western influences. In fact, a number of