The meaning of the Japanese word “kotai” is twofold, translating as both “solid” and “individual.” Fittingly, the Berlin design studio of the same name offers select design objects which embody uniqueness and durability. The philosophy is grounded in the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, according to which true beauty is not defined by perfection, but rather by its opposite: it is precisely those small signs of wear and tear and aging that make an object unique. The first jewelry collection by Kei Urayama, Kotai’s founder, is made up of four classic pieces: a ring, a bracelet, earrings and a necklace. Crafted by hand and made from fine silver, the high-quality material forms to the shape of the wearer’s own body, in reflection of the individuality ingrained in the wabi-sabi philosophy. (Text: Lisa Staub / Photos: Anna Boettke)

Kotai: website, Instagram

Juggling many facets of design, Danish design studio Frama sports a back-to-basics approach in its furniture, lighting, home and apothecary products. Its Copenhagen base, housed within an 18th-century pharmacy in the historic Nyboder neighborhood, is both a retail space as well as a physical embodiment of the brand. Here, original elements like old medical drawers and decorative glass ceilings are presented in dialogue with Frama’s wood, concrete and steel finishes. Also taking notes from the past is Frama’s apothecary collection: Their premier eau de parfum, named St. Pauls after the original pharmacy, combines earthy sandalwood and top notes of citrus and lavender. It’s the perfect keepsake to bring back home. (Text: Victoria Pease / Photos: Michael Rygaard)