Recycled corks from wine bottles consumed in Tokyo are collected and re-molded into the body. The light emitted on the cork's soft surface emits a warm glow on the spot. Compact size that can be carried even in times of a disaster. The gentle light leads you to a hope in any place. Rechargeable for up to 13 hours of lighting. This lighting was designed to contribute to a sustainable society by recycling corkscrews, which are usually thrown away, as a valuable resource. As of now, some of the corks collected from about 750 restaurants in Tokyo are being used.
Designed by Takanori Urata
Recognized by A' Design Award.
Embracing a thoroughly modern design style, TAKANORI URATA DESIGN INC. has become one of the most in-demand design firms in the region, celebrated for an ability to create exceptional spaces that are- in every way – unique. Though Takanori works primarily in the architecture and interior design spheres, he has also built a reputation on the back of other pursuits and in other markets, namely, in the package and graphic design industry. Throughout it all, Takanori’s signature remains apparent: crisp, clean and elegant. This has driven TAKANORI URATA DESIGN to thrive in sectors that require a certain sense of modernity, think modern condominiums, cosmetic companies and pharmaceutical clients. In those areas, Takanori has truly flourished, harnessing a skill for large open spaces that remain, at their core, entirely functional. Yet, the root of TAKANORI URATA DESIGN’s success lies in Takanori’s skill in communication, as he explains in more detail here. “I interview my clients first and try to understand exactly what they want. I pay attention to how my work satisfies their needs. Then I suggest a design which is improved on and refine over time. I aim to always exceed my client’s expectations and surprise them. Once they decide to move ahead with my office, I provide services that meet my client’s needs to gain their trust and establish a long-term partnership.” This is made all the more impressive when you consider that TAKANORI URATA DESIGN is a two-person operation. “There’s only two people, including myself. It is a small office, but I always try my best for my clients. I believe that my best will be evaluated as success, and it will lead to the next offer of work from my clients.” In a way that is to be very much expected for the firm, Takanori prefers to carve his own path in the sector and ignore the transient fashions and trends that come and go year on year. “I don’t mind so much about today’s trends. I always concentrate on my client’s needs first. Then, I imagine and create a design for them. I love long-life design which is simple, but never fails to be interesting. I aim for timelessness in my work and go from there.” Finally, Takanori offers some insight into TAKANORI URATA DESIGN’s future. “I don't know what will happen in future. So, I think I should try hard to make my design skill up so that I can meet variety needs from clients.”
Takanori Urata has AA Rating, valid through 2025. AA stands for Excellent Rating. DBI Awards the AA Rating to entities demonstrating designs of high quality and innovation, marked by consistent performance and a commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes. This rating reflects a dedication to achieving excellence in innovation and design. This certificate is awarded following a rigorous evaluation process conducted by an esteemed jury panel, comprising a diverse group of experts from around the world, including journalists, academics, design professionals, and entrepreneurs. The assessment adheres to a blind peer-review methodology, ensuring complete impartiality. Entries are meticulously evaluated based on pre-established criteria, with scores being normalized and standardized to uphold fairness and consistency. This process recognizes and highlights excellent achievements in innovation, design quality, and creative capacity.
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