Kinto Sepia's distinctly Japanese approach to design

Somewhere between classic and modern, Kinto's Sepia range feels instantly familiar in a very welcoming way. From the natural warmth of the amber colour to the understated curves of each vessel, each aspect of the Sepia range reflects the Japanese principles of tatazumai, kokochi, aichaku and gokan that form some of the central tenets of Kinto's design philosophy. Tatazumai たたずまい Written using kanji that can mean both 'linger' and 'appearance', the word tatzumai encapsulates the relationship of an object to its surroundings, which reflects an element of Japanese culture that conceives of objects as parts of a greater whole. That philosophical principle informs the cohesive design of the Sepia range, so that each cup, jug and tumbler speaks the same visual language, but it also leads Kinto to consider how glassware fits into the complex ecosystem of a home. Warm tones and rounded, timeless styling work to create a balance that allows the Sepia range to blend in harmoniously with the feel of your home while still adding a touch of something special to your space. Kokochi 心地 With potential meanings like 'thought', 'feeling' and 'sensation of doing', kokochi is a more specific parallel of English words like 'feel' and 'vibe'. In a design context, kokochi refers to the way an object feels when you use it, which is a critical consideration for Kinto in the Sepia range, and in every product they make. This principle touches every aspect of the design process, from the material it's made from to the balance and weight of the finished product to the finest details – every element that affects how it feels to drink from a Sepia cup, or set a mug on a saucer. Take the Sepia Jug as an example. Its amber glass is deceptively light, while still giving a feeling of strength and solidity. When you hold it to pour coffee, or tea, or milk, the subtle shape of the handle guides you to a comfortable angle for smooth, steady pouring with a gentle corner and a slight angle away from the body, making it feel intuitive and precise. The whole process is so smooth that it's easy to overlook the complexity of its design, and that's the point – it feels just right in your hands, like an extension of you. It's that level of thoughtfulness and care that make it easy to fall in love with Kinto from the moment you pick it up. Aichaku 愛着 Put simply, aichaku is the word for that very love; the affinity you feel for objects that take on meaning in your life. More than just an appreciation of its function, aichaku is an emotional connection that deepens over time as you attach meaning to an object. As humans, we can't help but imbue our belongings with that meaning, and Kinto has designed the Sepia range to foster that deep bond. More than a vessel for your morning coffee or a soothing tea in the afternoon, a cup becomes Your Cup, and becomes something more than a mere thing. Gokan ごかん Nostalgic and comforting, the Sepia range is a beautiful, functional expression of Kinto's love for and commitment to design that cares deeply about the person using each cup and jug, and the feelings that they help foster as they're cradled in a hand, or placed gently on a table; how they look as the afternoon light shines through them. Gokan (literally, "the five senses") refers to the magic that's created when all the senses are stimulated at once, which is an unmistakable part of the Sepia range, and Kinto's design in general. Check out the Kinto Sepia range

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