Supermama launches new Kobo Collection featuring traditional Japanese lifestyle items
By Home & Decor Team -
Singaporean lifestyle label Supermama has paired four local designers with 10 Japanese craftsmen to create a series of traditional Japanese lifestyle items with a Singaporean twist. Called Kobo Collection – kobo means a maker’s workshop or factory in Japanese – the products have a strong South-east Asian aesthetic and are made using traditional Japanese craft skills.
Image credits: Supermama
Highlights of the 39-piece collection include a trio of metal orchid-shaped jewellery trays; a trivet and bottle opener in metallic sheens; a sparrow mobile; and a pair of auspicious Daruma dolls in Peranakan wedding finery.
Image credits: The Straits Times
Prices range from $22 for a rectangular holder, to $3,000 for a customised kopi pot sleeve. However, most products are under $100.
Image credits: Supermama
Mr Low, the brand director of Kobo Collection, says that Kobo is a collection of everyday lifestyle items that are well-made for anybody to use.
Image credits: Supermama
The project has been a year in the making, with 10 makers chosen by Mr Low after an open call to companies in the Kanto region. “There are many designers with good designs around the world. But if you look at workmanship, the quality isn’t there,” said Mr Low, “That’s why I want to go to the Japanese – they are still one of the top product makers in the world. It’s in the Japanese culture and their character to take pride in what they do.”
Image credits: Supermama
Mr Low wants to expand the project beyond just selling products. To kick off the launch, he has invited some of the Japanese labels to conduct demonstrations and design workshops. If you’re interested, head to Supermama’s Gillman Barracks gallery this Friday!
Image credits: Supermama
This article was first published on The Straits Times.