itadakimasu

Refined by Tradition, Inspired by the Geisha’s Art

itadakimasu,

means "I humbly receive." It reflects the care behind every meal, and the craft behind every tool.

In my metals studio, I designed a set of knives and utensils influenced by traditional Japanese culinary tools and the distinctive color palette found in geisha makeup and attire.

The soft pink was derived from the blush applied to the cheeks, the light blue from intricate kimono patterns, and the warm yellow from ornamental hairpieces and fabric accents.

Each piece was thoughtfully powder coated to reflect these tones, merging cultural reference with refined craftsmanship and functional design.

Design Brief

Design a harmonious collection of knives and utensils using a singular design language

Research

For this project, I designed a set of six utensils: two knives, three flatware pieces, and one utensil of my choice. I was inspired by traditional Japanese culinary tools, choosing the Gyuto and Nakiri knives for their clean forms and functionality.

My flatware design was influenced by the symmetry and smooth shapes of Japanese utensils. Rather than copy them directly, I made subtle changes to create my own versions while keeping the same sense of balance and refinement.

To tie everything together with one design language, I looked into Japanese tea ceremonies, which led me to design a custom matcha scoop. I was also inspired by Geisha, who often perform during these ceremonies. The soft pinks, blues, and yellows found in their makeup and clothing became the color palette for my powder-coated handles, adding a distinct and cultural touch to the collection.