Finally, a group of countertop kitchen appliances that are not only unobtrusive but actually nice looking. Star product designer Naoto Fukasawa's minimalist collection for Muji is about to arrivie in the US.
Above: "People shouldn't really have to think about an object when they are using it," says Fukasawa. "Not having to think about it makes the relationship between a person and an object run more smoothly." A trio of his plug-in appliances—a toaster (shown here), electric kettle, and rice cooker—all of them in white with rounded edges, will be available at the new Muji store in Palo Alto, California, which opens on August 15, and coming to other Muji stores in the US this fall. They'll be available to the UK in November and to other parts of Europe next year; go to Muji to inquire about details.
Above: The pop-up toaster will retail for $95. Its temperature dial includes a setting for frozen bread.
Known for its devotion to simple, functional design, Muji is short for mujirushi ryōhin, which means "no-brand quality goods." The Japan-based global chain currently has 11 stores in the US (Palo Alto will be the 12th), and an online store.
Above: The electric kettle, $95, has a silhouette inspired by classic ceramic pitchers. It boils a cup of water in 80 seconds and has a space under the base to conceal the cord.
Above: Fukasawa cleverly incorporated a spoon rest into the top of his electric rice cooker.
Above: The rice cooker is 7.3-inches tall and 8.2 inches wide; $195. “I like rounded cubic shapes because people find them friendly,” says Fukasawa. His flat-sided appliances such as this are designed to rest against a wall.
Above: Fukasawa's microwave for Muji was released in Japan last year; we're hoping it will make its way to the US, but there are no import plans yet.
Above: The vertical toaster oven is another Fukasawa design that isn't available Stateside, but it and several other Muji's appliances are available from sellers on eBay.
Go to Modern Muji on the Med to see hotel apartments in Barcelona furnished and accessorized with a range of Muji designs. And browse our Shop section to see more of our Muji favorites.
Like the idea of tables and lamps with built-in chargers? Take a look at Power to the People: Ikea's New Phone-Charging Furniture.
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