Design office, Nendo. Oki Sato
Design office, Nendo. Oki Sato
Born in Canada in 1977, the globally recognized Japanese designer and founder of the design studio Nendo established the studio after completing his studies at Waseda University in 2002. He was selected for Newsweek’s lists of '100 Most Respected Japanese People' and '100 Most Promising Small and Medium Enterprises,' and became the youngest-ever recipient of the prestigious EDIDA Grand Prix, regarded as the highest honor in the design world.
With over 400 projects currently in progress, he is a visionary designer trusted by leading global brands as well as master artisans of traditional crafts.
Renowned for his distinctive style that combines minimal beauty with functionality, he has won numerous awards in the design industry and is highly acclaimed by international design publications such as Wallpaper and ELLE DECO.
'Nendo' is committed to bringing new perspectives to everyday design. Their work, including the 'N02 Recycle' chair made from recycled plastic and the 'Gaku' lighting inspired by picture frames, combines minimalist design with thoughtful innovation, earning widespread acclaim.
A semi-handmade tile where the clay pieces press against each other
Tegone Tile is a tile designed and created in collaboration between X-iS and Mr.Oki Sato of the design studio 'Nendo.'
After repeated experimentation and testing of materials and finishes, the project was completed over the course of approximately one year. The three-dimensional clay pieces are arranged at regular intervals and pressed into shape on a smooth surface. As a result, the shape becomes soft and rounded, due to the clay pieces pressing against one another. The slight variations in shape caused by the compression create a soft impression and evoke a warm, inviting atmosphere.
This semi-handmade tile blends the best aspects of full handcraft and machine production, allowing you to fully appreciate the charm of handmade craftsmanship.
Innovative tile shaping that accentuates the unique qualities of the material.
The originality of 'Tegone Tile' lies in its innovative shaping technique. Spherical and rectangular clay pieces are carefully arranged at regular intervals and pressed together on a smooth surface. Thanks to the material's natural properties, the clay pieces gently merge, resulting in soft shapes.
The slightly irregular shapes that naturally form from the arrangement create a subtle variation in the space, giving it a warm and gentle atmosphere.
A tile with subtle yet distinct appeal
Tegone Tile blends simplicity with a unique, subtle irregularity, offering a distinct charm that's both pleasing and quietly captivating. The organic shapes, designed to highlight the material's natural qualities, never fail to engage the viewer.
From modern to natural styles, this tile complements any space, adding a subtle presence that never overwhelms, and creating a uniquely charming atmosphere.
