Discovering the Allure of Reclaimed Wood
The recently launched brand "notonly" by ReBuilding Center JAPAN invites everyone to immerse themselves in the charm of reclaimed wood. The company, co-led by Kanako and Yoshifumi Higashino, is based in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture. Their mission of creating a "sound circulation" resonates deeply within their newly introduced brand. Being featured for the first time at the Interior Lifestyle Tokyo exhibition from June 18 to June 20, 2025, at Tokyo Big Sight, notonly aims to redefine how we perceive and enjoy reclaimed materials.
The Essence of notonly
Notonly was born from the desire to celebrate the hidden beauty within reclaimed wood—each piece tells a story marked by time. Many still associate reclaimed wood solely with its aged appearance, but notonly seeks to highlight its raw, unrefined beauty. Every product speaks of the unique history behind the materials, transforming what might have been discarded into something special and valuable.
The brand capitalizes on materials once deemed waste by creating products that not only serve aesthetic purposes but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Each item is a representation of the lives it once supported, and owning such a piece fosters a connection to that history.
Showcase Highlights at the Exhibition
Attendees at the Interior Lifestyle Tokyo 2025 exhibition can look forward to a curated selection of notonly’s distinctly designed products. Highlights include:
- - Stacking Stool: This stool is both beautiful and functional, showcasing a gradient of different wood types when stacked. Its three-legged design offers stability and ease of movement, making it perfect for any space. Priced at ¥39,900, this piece is a testament to how reclaimed wood can blend seamlessly into modern lifestyles.
- - Trays (Round/Oval): Crafted from thick planks of wood, the trays feature a seamless finish and robust design ideal for various uses. Available in two shapes, the round tray is priced at ¥14,900, while the oval variant is available for ¥17,900.
- - Frames (Square/Rectangle): Made from reclaimed glass carefully rescued from demolished buildings, these frames add a touch of elegance to your displays, costing ¥17,900 for the square and ¥19,900 for the rectangle.
Each piece is not just an item for sale; it carries with it a memory tag that details its origin, adding layers of meaning to every purchase. The memory tags are hand-annotated, ensuring that the story of the wood is woven into the experience, making for thoughtful gifts as well.
Engaging with the Concept of 'notonly'
The brand's concept champions the multifaceted beauty of reclaimed wood. It doesn't stop at being eco-friendly; it emphasizes the potential of what might be seen as flawed material. By reclaiming wood that served as part of a landscape, notonly integrates these pieces into new environments, encouraging consumers to reflect on how they can respectfully incorporate history into their present lives.
Notonly aims to be more than just a brand; they represent a movement towards sustainable living, where each product enhances the beauty of spaces while balancing community needs.
ReBuilding Center JAPAN - A Commitment to Sustainability
Founded in 2016 and inspired by the ReBuilding Center in Portland, USA, ReBuilding Center JAPAN has been actively involved in the community, performing over 3,500 rescues of old materials. Their efforts go beyond selling reclaimed products; they educate others about sustainability and promote a culture of refurbishment and reuse.
Located in Suwa City, Nagano Prefecture, the center not only facilitates the rescue and sale of reclaimed materials but also engages in area renovations and furniture design. The slogan, "ReBuild New Culture," encapsulates their mission.
For those interested in broader sustainability practices or who want to see the products for themselves, the notonly booth at the Interior Lifestyle Tokyo is a must-visit. Join ReBuilding Center JAPAN and witness how reclaimed wood can truly transform both spaces and minds.
Visit Notonly’s Official Site to learn more about their offerings and the philosophy behind this inspiring new brand.