#Japan #Osaka #Good Design Award #soem #Soap Dispenser

The Innovative Soap Dispenser: Redefining Refill Convenience and Design

The soap dispenser created by the Japanese interior accessory brand soem, operated by Daimei Plastic Co., Ltd., has recently garnered the 2025 Good Design Award, solidifying its place as a product that elegantly marries functionality with aesthetics. Founded in 1932 and based in Higashi-Osaka, Daimei has a rich history of over 110 years in the plastic manufacturing industry, continuously pushing the boundaries of design and user experience.

A Solution to Everyday Frustrations

The soem soap dispenser addresses a common yet often overlooked annoyance: the struggle of finding a proper place for the pump while refilling soap. Through an ingenious design, the dispenser allows users to slide the pump to one side, facilitating a mess-free refill. This thoughtful feature significantly reduces the hassle associated with a task that many take for granted, showcasing the brand's commitment to solving everyday problems.

In crafting this dispenser, special attention was given to usability for people of all ages. The design accommodates everyone—from children to the elderly—ensuring an easy and stable pressing experience. The base of the dispenser is kept compact, while the pump is proportionally larger. This combination provides a sturdy grip, making it easy for users to dispense soap with minimal effort.

Elegant Aesthetic Meets Practical Functionality

Available in three calming colors—White, Natural, and Charcoal—the dispenser is not only user-friendly but also beautifully designed. Its gentle transparency subtly indicates soap levels, making it easier for users to see when a refill is needed. The adaptable design allows the pump to be positioned both vertically and horizontally, ensuring that it integrates seamlessly into water-saving areas without taking up unnecessary space. The fluid form and meticulous attention to texture culminate in a product that elevates the commonplace act of handwashing into a pleasant ritual.

Product Details

• - Product Name: Soap Dispenser (Foam Type)
• - Price: ¥3,850 (¥3,500 excluding tax)
• - Dimensions: Approximately W119 × D63 × H143 mm
• - Materials:

- Body: Recycled Polycarbonate
- Pump: TEXa (a blend of rice husks and polypropylene), Polyethylene
- Packing: Elastomer

• - Designer: Yukika Tanimoto from A Lot of Product
• - Brand Concept: soem is centered around creating products that resonate with users, fostering a gentle, heartwarming lifestyle.

Insights from the Designer

Yukika Tanimoto emphasizes the blend of beauty and ease of use in everyday items, creating designs that invite customers to showcase them in their homes. The ergonomic and functional features reflect a commitment to tackling the daily inconveniences of product use while maintaining elegance. The dispenser’s unique oval shape allows refilling with the pump still attached, enhancing usability.

Critical Acclaim

Judges of the Good Design Award praised the soap dispenser for its keen attention to detail and innovative problem-solving. Recognizing the common frustration of refill logistics, the design was hailed for revolutionizing the replenishment process without compromising elegance. The materials used, including sustainable resources, also add to its appeal with an eco-friendly focus.

Upcoming Exhibition

The soap dispenser will be showcased at the GOOD DESIGN EXHIBITION 2025 held from November 1 to 5 at Tokyo Midtown. The exhibition will feature all award-winning products, and attendees will have the opportunity to view this innovative soap dispenser up close at the GOOD DESIGN STORE TOKYO by NOHARA pop-up store.

Sustainability Commitment

As part of its ethos, soem places importance on sustainability. The materials used in the soap dispenser, particularly the bio-based TEXa, include significant amounts of rice husks, which help reduce reliance on petroleum-based plastics by about 40%. The recycled polycarbonate body not only provides an appealing aesthetic but also showcases the brand’s commitment to environmentally conscious production.

In summary, the soem soap dispenser serves as more than just a utilitarian item; it is a beautiful object that integrates functionality with sustainable design principles, making it an essential addition to any home. With innovative solutions to common problems, soem continues to enhance daily life with insight and flair.