The Intangible Spirit and Tangible Features of KINTO Tableware.
(AD - partnership). A couple of years in “active search” have finally come to a happy end - I’ve found my perfect tableware, which ticked all the boxes on my criteria list!
“There is something like an intangible ‘spirit’ that attracts people to objects…”
For a person who values simple yet elegant designs, and dislikes sacrificing practicality for beauty - the CAST and RIM collections by KINTO represent more than tableware - they embody lifestyle. Designs from both collections complement the clean, calming, yet lived-in aesthetic of my home while being fully functional pieces in everyday moments.
The CAST collection by KINTO // photo by me // © 2024
The Essence of KINTO tableware.
All collections by KINTO are designed with ease of movement in mind. Their refined, minimalist shapes celebrate utility without compromising style, embodying the perfect balance of form and function - a hallmark of Japanese design. Each item in collections is crafted to enhance everyday experiences, from sipping tea to serving meals, while maintaining a serene, elegant presence on your table.
For my home, I chose to mix two particular collections and I had clear reasons behind my choice - let me explain them :)
My mix of the CAST and RIM collections by KINTO // photo by me // © 2024
Why the CAST collection?
1. Simplicity in Design.
The idea of “Uninterfering design” resonates deeply with me:
“The concept of "uninterfering design" was born by perceiving actions such as drinking or pouring a drink as secondary actions in everyday moments like reading a book, enjoying a conversation, or savoring a meal. The form of each item has been carefully designed with attention to detail to ensure that it does not hinder the natural movements of the body during our moments to unwind”.
The lack of ornate details also ensures the tableware doesn’t compete with my space’s overall design but rather complements its tranquility.
The CAST collection by KINTO, coffee/tea cup with steel saucer // photo by me // © 2024
2. Harmony with Natural Elements
My space highlights natural materials like wood, linen, and stone. The glass and metal elements of the CAST collection blend seamlessly into this aesthetic, creating a harmonious interplay between contrasting materials.
3. Practical Elegance
Functional design is central to my home, and the CAST collection excels in this aspect. The ergonomic handles, lightweight construction, variety of volumes/shapes, and stackable forms of the cups and plates ensure that every piece feels intuitive and effortless to use. The items are also dishwasher safe, making them suitable for everyday use.
4. Versatility
Whether we’re enjoying a family morning with tea or coffee or hosting a gathering, the versatile nature of the CAST collection allows it to adapt seamlessly to different occasions and table stylings. I plan to use the KINTO tableware for a minimalist Christmas table styling this year too. Its understated elegance ensures it feels just as appropriate during intimate moments as it does for more elaborate setups.
The CAST collection by KINTO, 250ml glass // photo by me // © 2024
Why the RIM collection?
1. My Personal (life)style.
In my profile bio on my Instagram, you can see the intro “Lost somewhere between Nordic & Japanese #habitableminimalism“ - and in the description of the RIM collection on the KINTO website, you’ll find these words: “RIM has a distinctive rim design, incorporating essences of both Japanese and European tableware”.
Clearly, the RIM collection and I were meant for each other!
The RIM collection by KINTO, bowls in grey / different sizes // photo by me // © 2024
2. The color.
Those subtle tints of muted “earthy” blue, a characteristic of the porcelain made in the Hasami region of Japan - with my love for introducing blue accents into my space - it was irresistible for me! This blue complements perfectly both the dining area with our 70-years-old dining table made of solid teak wood and our black+greige minimalist kitchen, adding visual interest and softness to its monochrome look (and I’ve had a soft spot for the black-and-blue color palette for quite some time already).
3. Design.
A short side note - my husband is a purely technical person, and usually meets all my “design talks” with a kind smile. But when I try to prove to him that particular design decisions have reasons behind them and directly impact the functionality of the object - he takes it seriously! He immediately arranges a “test drive” for objects in question to confirm or bust the statement. All KINTO tableware passed his test.
4. A Touch of Japanese Philosophy.
One of the defining features of Japanese design is its connection to Japanese philosophy, which celebrates imperfection and authenticity. I specifically chose pieces in grey color, keeping in mind that (quoting the KINTO website here):
“The earth gray plates have a gentle yet unique expression, made by utilizing clay containing iron powders which are normally considered impurities.”
- such imperfections and “impurities” are precious to me.
The RIM collection by KINTO, bowls and plates in grey / different sizes // photo by me // © 2024
What spaces/interior styles can benefit from CAST and RIM collections by KINTO?
Wide range of homes and public, and/or commercial spaces like hotels and restaurants, every space where elegance and functionality, working in tandem, are appreciated. All my favorite interior styles: Japanese, Japandi, Nordic/Scandinavian, and Warm (or “Soft”) Minimalist spaces are among the first that come to my mind.
The CAST collection by KINTO, coffee/tea cup with steel saucer // photo by me // © 2024
The CAST collection by KINTO, 250ml glass // photo by me // © 2024
More about the KINTO brand and CAST/RIM collections you can find here:
Have a nice day and thank you for reading my journal! :)
