DESIGNING IN PLACE
Umaji, sensory immersion
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Umaji, Japan.
This project aims to enhance the identity of Umaji (A small Japanese village located on Shikoku island) by using a range of products capturing the unique characteristics of the village and local environment.
This range of products uses and combines steam molded Yanase cedar wood, and a citrus fruit called Yuzu. These resources, characterizing the village by reflecting its identity, culture and economy are harvested, transformed and assembled locally. Both cedar wood an Yuzu have a very pleasant smell and are used in aromatherapy.
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The olfactive objects were designed for the local hotel to be combined to the existing interior, enhancing the space and user experience by using sensory immersion.
Products include:
- A tray designed to hold a yukata (robe) and towel for the onsen (baths), an important ritual in Japanese culture.
- A container diffuser designed to be folded with the Yukata which can also be used for the onsen.
- An aromatherapy diffuser containing cedar wood bark and yuzu peels.
- A pillow made of small cedar balls combined to Yuzu essential oil.
- A coat hanger made of molded cedar wood subtly perfuming garments.
This project was developed in collaboration with the Japanese designer Takumi Shimamura and was developed over 3 months (including 10 days on site).
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