Oki Sato, founder of renowned Japanese studio nendo, continues to expand the product portfolio of his personal line, by | n introducing meji, a minimal and sleek umbrella stand. Typical umbrella stand looks like either a huge container or a box full of holes and can’t help but seem out of place when not holding any umbrellas. By using grooves instead of holes, this umbrella stand maintains a simple, clean appearance.
The design’s motif takes inspiration from the joints of a tiled floor. When an umbrella is set into the grooves, the product becomes an umbrella stand. It doesn’t look out of place when not in use, and maintains a neat appearance even when multiple stands are lined up in an entryway. The stand is made using a dense resin known as Polystone. This is then covered with silicone, which offers excellent pliability and durability. Options include a single-umbrella stand and a three-umbrella stand, each available in five different colours.
meji is available for purchase her for 3,000 JPY (approximately $25 USD) for the single version and 5,500 JPY (approximately $46 USD) for 3 umbrellas.
all images © Akihiro Yoshida