Yuri Tsuchiya, who loves traveling around Asia, and Masami Ishida, who loves touring Africa, met in their mid-twenties when they worked together in the same shop. Today Yuri and Masami live worlds apart, in Indonesia and Morocco. But these kindred design spirits stay connected through Warang Wayan, a joint venture featuring goods from both their favorite lands.
The name Warang Wayan is an amalgamation of these ladies' two worlds. Warang is a village in Africa, and Wayan is Yuri's husband, a woodworker and the talent behind Warang Wayan's sublime wooden collection. Made from hardwood teak, which is indigenous to the couple's Balinese home, each utensil or vessel is hand carved either by Wayan or by the local craftsmen he employs. "Born of their laughter," these quiet wooden pieces speak volumes of the bonds of those who make beauty together.
All images courtesy of OEN Shop.
Above: Wooden spoons as well as a small dish by Warang Wayan are said to be "born of laughter" by the Balinese workers, who enjoy joking and the sound of wooden hammers. Available at OEN; $38.
Above: Adorned with only the markings of the grain and the carvers tools, Warang Wayan's pieces highlight the natural beauty of the wood.
Above: Reminiscent of a "boat without a sail" this little bowl is perfect for sugar or spices; $23.
Above: A small spoon hovers over Warang Wayan's large teak tray; $18.
Above: A pear-shaped teaspoon is perfect for ice cream and other creamy delights; $15.
Above: A generous rice paddle is great for serving or stirring; $38.
N.B. Can't get enough wooden spoons? (We can't.) Browse more of our favorite standout stirrers.