single-stem vases reinterpret number 1 through porcelain, bronze, and wood

1RIN turns number 1 into single-stem vases crafted across Japan

Developed by Tokyo-based design company KUMAnoTE, 1RIN is a collection of single-stem vases based on the form of the number 1. The project originated from the idea of placing a single flower in a single vessel, using the numeral as a shared design framework through which different materials, regional traditions, and manufacturing techniques could be explored.

The inaugural collection brings together three forms of Japanese craftsmanship: Hasami porcelain from Nagasaki Prefecture, Takaoka bronze casting from Toyama Prefecture, and Yakumo wood carving from Hokkaido. While each vase follows the same numerical silhouette, the character of the object changes according to the material properties and production methods associated with each region of Japan.

all images courtesy of KUMAnoTE / Hideyuki Kumagai

a shared numerical form links three regional craft traditions

The porcelain version, produced in Hasami, presents a refined white surface that emphasizes the relationship between the vase and a single stem. Its restrained form and neutral appearance allow the flower to remain the focal point while highlighting the clarity of the numerical shape. The bronze edition is manufactured using traditional casting techniques from Takaoka, a region recognized for its metalworking heritage. The material introduces a greater sense of weight and surface variation, allowing the object to develop a changing patina through handling and use over time. In Hokkaido, the design is reinterpreted through Yakumo wood carving techniques. Known for its wood-carved bear tradition, the region contributes a distinct approach to surface treatment, incorporating textured cuts and carved detailing. Rather than referencing figurative motifs, the wooden versions focus on translating these carving techniques into the abstract form of the number 1.

Each vase measures approximately 111 millimeters in height, extending the numerical concept beyond the object’s silhouette and into its dimensions. Through this consistent format, the collection demonstrates how a single geometric form can be transformed through different materials, production processes, and regional craft traditions. By combining a shared design language with diverse methods of making, 1RIN by KUMAnoTE design studio functions as both a flower vase and a framework for exploring contemporary applications of Japanese craftsmanship. The project highlights how material, technique, and place can generate distinct interpretations of the same form while maintaining a common conceptual foundation.

the first collection brings together Hasami porcelain, Takaoka bronze, and Yakumo wood carving

the porcelain version has a clean, quiet presence designed for everyday interiors

a small opening at the top allows a single flower to stand within the number-shaped form

bronze surfaces are intended to develop character over time through touch and use

the cast bronze texture gives each piece a slightly different surface and presence

the Yakumo wood-carved versions reveal different expressions through hand-carving techniques from Hokkaido

carved textures and subtle variations make each wooden 1RIN feel like a small art piece

the white wood-carved vase highlights the rhythm and shadow of hand-carved marks

the brown wood-carved vase shows a bold carved surface inspired by Yakumo bear carving techniques

each vase is designed to hold one flower, adding a subtle accent to daily living spaces

project info:

name: 1RIN
designer: KUMAnoTE / Hideyuki Kumagai | @kumanote_work

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom