#Japan #Washbasin #WOODNESIA #Tsuruda Suido #Minami-Kyushu

WOODNESIA: A New Wave in Bathroom Design

In a world where porcelain and resin washbasins reign supreme, a unique wooden washbasin brand, WOODNESIA, is stepping onto the scene. This innovative initiative, spearheaded by Tsuruda Suido, a waterworks company with over 56 years of experience, embraces the warm, distinct characteristics of natural wood to create one-of-a-kind washbasins.

The Birth of WOODNESIA

Established by Daigo Tsuruda, Tsuruda Suido has been a pillar of infrastructure in Minami-Kyushu, Kagoshima Prefecture, specializing in water supply and sewage systems. The inception of WOODNESIA emerged around 2021 when the company pondered a simple yet profound question: “Is ceramic really the only option for washbasins?”

With the realization that wood could offer a refreshing alternative, the brand aims to bring warmth and individuality into the often sterile environment of bathrooms.

Craftsmanship Behind WOODNESIA

WOODNESIA's washbasins are crafted from Indonesian teak, renowned for its durability and water resistance, making it ideal for moist settings. Each basin showcases unique wood grains and colors, ensuring that no two pieces are alike. This individuality transforms each washbasin into a work of art, breathing life into otherwise cold spaces.

The brand marries the expertise of Indonesian artisans with Japanese quality control, where every piece goes through meticulous craftsmanship, from selecting high-quality timber to the final coat of finish that is adjusted based on specific climates.

Core Values of WOODNESIA

1. Uniqueness: Each washbasin has its own distinct appearance, bringing a personal touch to any setting.
2. Artisanal Quality: The combination of local Indonesian craftsmanship and Japanese finishing standards guarantees superior quality and longevity.
3. Environmental Transformation: WOODNESIA seeks to redefine how washbasins are perceived, turning them from mere utilities to integral components of design.

A Journey That Began with an Email

The concept for WOODNESIA took flight through a single email sent during the COVID-19 pandemic, when direct travel was not possible. Daigo Tsuruda reached out to Kenji Katsunaka, a Japanese resident in Indonesia, expressing a desire to explore the possibility of creating wooden washbasins. This leap of faith sparked a collaborative effort involving numerous professionals, from local artisans to Japanese specialists, ultimately bringing WOODNESIA to fruition.

In July 2023, travel restrictions lifted, enabling the team to finalize the designs in person, leading to the first prototypes.

Future Prospects and Introduction at the Renovation Industry Fair 2026

Set to debut at the Renovation Industry Fair 2026 on July 29-30 at Tokyo Big Sight, WOODNESIA looks forward to showcasing its products to a broader audience for the first time. Attendees will have an opportunity to experience firsthand the rich textures of natural wood, the flowing water dynamics, and the overall aesthetic compatibility of WOODNESIA washbasins.

"Our work in waterworks often goes unnoticed once systems are installed. We wanted to create something visible and valuable, something that reflects the beauty of craftsmanship," Daigo Tsuruda stated. This fair isn't viewed as merely the final goal but as the beginning of a promising journey.

Through WOODNESIA, Tsuruda Suido hopes to foster a deeper appreciation for natural materials in modern spaces, bringing a personal touch to bathrooms across Japan, in homes, hotels, and restaurants.

As this innovative brand takes its first steps into the public eye, it stands poised to change the landscape of bathroom design with its elegant, handcrafted wooden washbasins.