2022 results

Oku
by Kathleen Reilly

Photo by Shot by Kakeru Ooka

Kathleen Reilly has designed Oku in Tsubame City, Japan.


This project is a new knife design carefully produced in collaboration with highly skilled craftsmen in Tsubame City – an area renowned for over 400 years of metalworking in Niigata Prefecture, Japan.

Influenced by traditional Japanese place setting and arrangement, Oku has a unique folded handle that elevates its function, allowing it to interact with objects on the table in new ways.

Oku's innovative form utilises generations-old manufacturing techniques and promotes locally sourced materials and craft skills to challenge centuries-old traditions of Western tableware.

"Functional yet unconventional, Oku introduces a refined aesthetic that breathes new life into the dining space," added designer Kathleen Reilly.


This project has been longlisted in the homeware design category of Dezeen Awards 2022.

Designer: Kathleen Reilly

Project: Oku

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