Nendo: The Epitome of Japanese Minimalist Design Excellence

Nendo is a Japanese design firm founded in 2002 by Oki Sato, with offices in Tokyo and Milan. The name “Nendo” translates to “clay” in Japanese, symbolizing the studio’s flexible and adaptive approach to design. (nendo)

When people think of Japanese design, thoughts often converge on the simple yet profound artistry ingrained in the culture. In contemporary design, few names have captured this essence as brilliantly as Nendo. Born from the visionary mind of Oki Sato, Nendo’s philosophy resonates with the purity of Japanese aesthetics, seamlessly blended with global design sensibilities.

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The Genesis of Nendo

Brought to life in 2002 in Tokyo, Japan’s bustling metropolis, Nendo quickly ascended the design echelons. Recognizing the growing influence of European design, they strategically branched out to Milan in 2005, positioning themselves at the heart of global design movements. The awards swiftly followed their inception testify to their meticulous attention to form and functionality.

Oki Sato: The Maverick Behind Nendo

Oki Sato’s Toronto beginnings might seem different from Tokyo’s urban sprawl. Yet, his architectural prowess, honed at Waseda University, seamlessly bridges these divides. Encounters with iconic figures, notably Issey Miyake, have peppered and enriched Nendo’s design narratives.

A Multifaceted Design Approach

Whether in the tangible world of product design or the evocative realms of graphic artwork, Nendo’s touch is unmistakable. Their creations are less about objects and more about moments—moments of realization, awe, and beauty.

Nendo’s mastery hasn’t gone unnoticed. Nendo’s creations are showcased and celebrated from the hallowed halls of New York’s Museum of Modern Art to the historic spaces of London’s Victoria and Albert Museum.

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Sculpting Designs, Irrespective of Medium

The term ‘Nendo’ might evoke images of modelling clay, but for the design firm, it’s an ethos. It speaks of flexibility, form, and the ability to mould visions into reality, no matter the material. H4: Partnering with Giants

Be it a collaboration with luxury brands like Cappellini and Moroso or athletic powerhouses like Puma, Nendo’s distinct signature is unmistakably present. It offers a mélange of playfulness rooted in pragmatic design principles.

Sources

MaxAI.me. (2024, April 23). Oki Sato “used twenty years’ worth of colours” in Hana-arashi collection. Retrieved May 1, 2024, from https://www.dezeen.com/2024/04/23/nendo-oki-sato-hana-arashi-paola-lenti/

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Recommended Reading

樋口, 兼. (2013). nendo ghost shadows. Japan: Ēdīpī.

Nendo 10/10. (2013). Germany: Gestalten.

Nendo: 2016-2020. (2021). Germany: Phaidon Press Limited.

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