MoMA Design Store: Destination Japan
MoMA Design Store recently launched Destination Japan, an exclusive product collection of housewares, accessories and design objects usually available only Japan. Available for a limited time, it features a range of items—from those created by well-known Japanese designers to pop accessories and well-designed everyday items. The mascot for the the collection "Mochi" (pictured above) is a homage to the Japanese fascination with kawaii (cute) and was designed in collaboration with Japanese design studio Devilrobots and Kidrobot. We've picked out our favorites here.
The Ramen Spoon/Fork" ($12) designed by Masami Takahashi was originally created for use at the popular Sugakiya ramen noodle restaurant chain in Japan. Created as an ecological alternative to wooden chopsticks, this stainless steel version of the classic spork has a deeper spoon for increased functionality.
Splash Dipping Bowls ($40) from designer Akimasa Yamada are a functional interpretation of the classic motif. The design also creates an ideal groove to rest chopsticks—or maybe even your spork.
Crystal Cloud ($100), designed in 1979 by Yumiko Yoshimoto, is a cloud-shaped glass sculpture that replicates the precipitation cycle by forming water drops, becoming cloudy based on temperature. Each Crystal Cloud sculpture is mouth blown from borosilicate glass and shaped by hand.
The Hands-Free Umbrella ($50) made by Ryo Masaki has a flexible rubber handle that can be molded around your shoulder freeing your hands to carry other things. The heart-patterned umbrella is available exclusively from MoMA.
