A mirror that explores the potential of rattan

This rattan wall-mounted mirror was invented by TORAFU ARCHITECTS.
The name “wawa” is derived from the “double loop” shape of thick rattan wrapped spirally.
The frame, which is simple yet gives off a sense of presence, makes the most of the
characteristics of the supple and strong material.

  • TORAFU ARCHITECTS / wawa / Mirror

    wawa

    Design:TORAFU ARCHITECTS

    Brand :nuskool

    Size　 :S/ 275 × 70 H310mm(1kg)　

    　 　 　L/ 380 × 70 H420mm(2.3kg)

    Material : Rattan, Mirror, Steel(Electrodeposition Coating)

    Attachment : Wall-mounting scrwew×1, Hook for gypsum board×1
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Designer : TORAFU ARCHITECTS

Founded in 2004 by Koichi Suzuno and Shinya Kamuro, TORAFU ARCHITECTS employs a working approach based on architectural thinking. Works by the duo include a diverse range of projects, from architectural design to interior design for shops, exhibition space design, product design, spatial installations and film making. Some of their main works include “TEMPLATE IN CLASKA”, “airvase” and “AA STOOL”. Their works have received a number of awards such as Red Dot: Best of the Best, and “airvase” was selected for the permanent collection at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts in 2015.

  • TORAFU ARCHITECTS / wawa / Mirror

    The mirror itself is mounted slightly away from the wall, giving it a light and airy feel. When viewed from the side, the supple yet powerful beauty of the rattan can be seen.

  • TORAFU ARCHITECTS / wawa / Mirror

    The mounting hardware on the back has notches, allowing you to hang it on the wall at any angle from eight different directions.

  • TORAFU ARCHITECTS / wawa / Mirror

    This "unpainted finish" is only possible because it's domestically produced. The more you use it, the more it develops a beautiful amber sheen and a unique character.

  • TORAFU ARCHITECTS / wawa / Mirror

    One end of the maki frame is adorned with rattan decoration, adding a design accent.

What is Rattan?

  • Rattan, known in Japanese as "tou" and written with the kanji "籐," is actually

    a climbing plant belonging to the palm family, and is neither related to bamboo nor wisteria vines. It does not grow naturally in Japan, but is found in the jungles of tropical regions such as Southeast Asia, Africa, and Australia.
    It was introduced to Japan more than 1000 years ago, and rattan craftsmanship

    flourished during the Edo period. It came to be used in a variety of everyday items

    and has long been a familiar natural material cherished in people's lives.

  • Its lightness, flexibility, resistance to breakage, excellent durability, and soft,

    easily workable properties make it ideal for curved designs. Thicker pieces are used as furniture frames, while thinner pieces are split to obtain the peel

    and core, which are then used for weaving and wrapping.
    It is porous and possesses moisture-regulating and deodorizing properties,

    as well as the ability to absorb moisture from the air.

How to manufacture

wawa products are handcrafted using natural rattan, shaping it into a spiral. Each piece is carefully processed by artisans who have a deep understanding of the properties of rattan.

  • ① Rattan pieces with a diameter of 24-26 mm, commonly used as furniture frame material, are placed in a large steamer and steamed for about 30 minutes.

  • ② The steamed rattan material is placed in a mold specifically designed for wawa products, and each piece is molded into a double spiral shape by applying pressure.

  • ③ After securing it with screws to prevent it from losing its shape, remove it from the mold and let it air dry for a full day in a well-ventilated, shady place.

  • ④ The cut ends are processed to create a smooth surface. This process is also carried out carefully by hand, one piece at a time.

  • ⑤ This is the decoration process for "Maki". The rattan wrapping material is wrapped by hand by craftsmen, and the frame is completed.

  • * Because natural rattan material is used, there will be individual differences in the color, pattern, and appearance of the knots in the material.
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TORAFU ARCHITECTS / wawa / Mirror

GOOD DESIGN AWARD 2016 WINNER

Blending traditional Japanese rattan craftsmanship with a modern sensibility, this mirror stands out in a market often dominated by inexpensive imports. Honoring both the natural beauty of the material and the desire to preserve Japan’s artisanal skills, the piece was recognized with the Good Design Award in 2016 (size S) shortly after its release.

In 2023, it was further distinguished as part of the “100 Selected Contemporary Japanese Designs” by the Japan Foundation, affirming its place as a symbol of timeless design and craftsmanship.

Brand

nuskool is a furniture brand established in Japan in 2019.
The brand aim is to create masterpieces of the future through co-creation with contemporary designers, not being constrained within the framework of existing items. We are committed to ethical manufacturing that emphasizes by striving to use materials that have a low environmental impact. Our mission is to share the value of our products with users and to nurture culture of abundant life.

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