Entering the Interior Market and a New Direction in Product Development

Around the year 2000, Lemnos faced a major turning point as counterfeit products began to flood the market. In response, then-President Hiroshi Takata made the bold decision to enter the interior design field. He steered product development toward exploring new techniques, materials, and ideas with a mindful approach to environmental impact.

At that time, I was working as an architect at a globally recognized architecture firm. Through a fortunate connection, I was given the opportunity to collaborate with Lemnos.

Mastering Plywood Craftsmanship and Creating the First Plywood Clock

By working closely with our partner manufacturer, we obtained plywood production techniques and introduced the first Plywood Clock series in September 2000.
We chose to work with plywood to help reduce waste from petroleum-based materials that have a negative impact on the environment. To further that goal, we developed a plant-based adhesive that is formaldehyde-free.

In addition, the Plywood Clock features a rational modular design that enables small-lot, multi-variety production with minimal strain. Its design reflects architectural principles, which made it well-suited to Japanese interior spaces.

Developing Plywood Products Using Traditional Tray-Making Techniques

To create the series of plywood products, we drew on traditional woodworking methods used in crafting Japanese trays in the Hokuriku region. This technique eliminates the need for metal molds or large-scale machinery and helps sustain a regional industry that is facing decline.

The STOCK Tissue Box Cover: Practicality Meets Beauty

The STOCK tissue box cover was designed to maximize the use of standard-sized plywood sheets, thus minimizing material waste.
Its design balances comfort and efficiency by following the architectural Modulor system, while its thoughtful functionality allows it to hold two compact tissue boxes at once.

The STOCK was first showcased at the 2003 Tokyo Designers Block, where it received widespread acclaim. We also fondly recall the Museum of Modern Art in New York praising it as “a beautiful design with Japanese rationality.”

This plywood series later served as a foundation for the development of the RIKI CLOCK.

Lemnos’ Product Development: Returning to the Essence of Craftsmanship

At that time, Lemnos focused on returning to the true essence of craftsmanship, while avoiding superficial novelty or gimmicks. Their designs prioritized environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing methods, while supporting the sustainability of regional industries. This approach results in long-lasting designs that remain timeless and unshaken by fleeting trends.