Renowned Japanese studio Nendo has designed a set of bowls that seems “as if one is growing out of the other” along with a “seemingly unbalanced” tea set that hides under its lid for Chinese lifestyle brand Zens.
The set, called Fungi, comprises seven bowls for food or objects that can be arranged in various combinations. When combined, the bowls almost appear as if one is growing out of the other, or sprouting from the edge of another, reminiscent of the growth of mushrooms.
Because of the bowls variant dimensions, they can be used in many ways, for serving food or as an interior piece. The larger bowls are intended to be used to serve or display fruit, whilst the smaller can carry dips or sauces. The collection includes shallow bowls that could be used to float candles on liquid, or for other decorative uses, and bowls with deeper sides to contain flowers.
Plank has a similarly unconventional appearance, as it is a “tea set that is secretly hiding under a seemingly unbalanced over-sized lid”. It looks as if the spout and handle are growing from underneath the lid and should be used as is. However, the lid is removable and simply fixed in place with a notch. Because of the wide surrounding rims, it is possible to pick it up without a handle, and its flat form allows it to be stackable. Similarly, a carafe and a mug with a strainer were designed for users to enjoy their herb tea or Chinese tea. The lid is normally considered as a supporting role, but this design was born by making the lid play the lead.
