AT Asia: デザイン家電 (DEZAIN KADEN): amadana

Some people seem to believe that Japan is the land of highly advanced, well-designed electronic devices. Personally, I've found that while there are indeed products with more functions than you'll ever need, there aren't all that many options that are aesthetically pleasing. This seems to be particularly true in regard to kaden, or household appliances. Indeed, most products named by those who care about what their refrigerator or water boiler look like come from Europe. Amadana is one of the few domestic companies that seem to be having success in catering to this niche market.

A prominent characteristic of their design is the use of natural materials, such as wood or bamboo. Their simple designs with straight lines are a welcome change from the over-abundance of rounded corners and tastelessly colorful buttons with large tacky labels. Unfortunately, I have heard complaints about the durability of some of their products, which I suppose is a common issue with designer appliances. (I don't own anything of theirs so I can't really add to that. Any feedback from anyone who does, or has, is welcome.) I do hope, however, that the major companies will take the cue from smaller ones like amadana and make their products better-looking, too. [also check out the hilarious cautionary illustrations that accompany a few of the products below - gregory]

-Ellie

Comments (1)

Oh wow. Those are some of the best warning labels I've aver seen. So far my favorites are for the toaster oven: http://en.amadana.com/product/tt111/tt111.html

I would consider buying it, but I need my toaster oven available for scapegoat duties.

posted by jennifer in sf on November 15th 2007 at 11:13am
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