Hongyu Dai


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Unitware



Designed for adaptability and ease, Unitware is a drink ware collection that quietly fits into everyday life.

Each piece works on its own or combines freely to suit different habits and moments. Users can start with what they need and add more over time. The signature ring detail ties the set together visually and structurally, making it easy to stack, store, and display. Whether in use or at rest, Unitware stays present, flexible, and ready for daily rhythms.






Year: 2025
Exhibition: 3 Days of Design 2025

Background


In the Nordic region, Japanese aesthetics and design are often met with immediate appreciation. Japanese cultural export has found remarkable success in the Nordic region. 

Within this context, Arita ware, one of Japan’s most iconic ceramic traditions, has gained significant visibility and appreciation in Europe. Brands such as 2016/ and 1616/ arita japan have played a 
pivotal role in fostering international collaborations and strengthening the global presence of Arita ceramics.

Just 11 kilometres away from Arita lies Hasami, another historically significant ceramic town in Japan. Despite its rich heritage and active ceramic production, Hasami remains relatively under-recognised in the world. Compared to Arita’s international profile, Hasami ware 
has had limited exposure outside Japan. Yet, it holds immense potential.

Motivated by this potential, I traveled to Hasami to begin my field research. My aim was to explore how Hasami ceramics could be reinterpreted, communicated, and introduced in a cross-cultural context, in a way that honours their roots while opening them up to new audiences.





Research - Hasami ware

At the beginning of this project, I went to Hasami for a field research. Hasami is one of Japan’s important ceramic production regions. Due to various historical and geographical factors, Hasami ware place less emphasis on decorative elements and elaborate craftsmanship compared to other ceramic traditions in Japan. Instead, they focus on everyday usability, characterised by simplicity, practicality, and affordability.



Characteristics of Hasami ware:

• Lacks a distinct identity and historical patronage.

• Practical, affordable, and adaptable to social change.

• Manufacturers are open to innovation.

• Appeals to both traditional users and new audiences.

• True value lies in flexibility and user-focused design, rather than decoration or prestige.


Opportunities of Hasami ware:

• Promoting high-quality and affordable daily ware can help clarify Hasami ware’s market positioning and increase consumer awareness.

• The new brands from Hasami signals a positive shift in the local ceramic industry, but more effort is still required for them to gain broader recognition in cities like Tokyo and on international stages.

• Branding has proven to be an effective strategy in addressing this issue. In recent years, new brands have enabled Hasami products to reach customers more directly and efficiently, often through curated retail experiences and online platforms.



Research - Nordic tableware

Interestingly, on the other side of the world, the Nordic region shares a deep appreciation for the same kind of simplicity and functionality found in Hasami. Since the mid-20th century, this part of the world has been home to a wave of ceramic designers and brands who placed everyday usability at theheart of their creations. The designs focused not only on appearance but also on being a part of everyday life. Thoughtful, honest, and deeply human, many of these pieces have stood the test of time, continuing to bring quiet beauty and practicality to daily life today.
Blåkant (1965), Royal Copenhagen
designed by Grethe Meyer
Kilta (1953), Arabia 
designed by Kaj Franck


Hvidpot (1971), Royal Copenhagen
designed by Grethe Meyer
Praktika (1933), Gustavsbergs Porslinsfabrik
designed by Wilhelm Kåge




Brief - Five principles

Following in-depth field research in Hasami and a detailed case study of Nordic tableware, I discovered a surprising alignment between the two traditions. Despite their geographic and cultural distance, both are rooted in a shared set of core values. From this overlap, I distilled five key principles, guiding anchors that now shape the foundation of my design process.



Design - Process





Design - Delivery



Each part in the system can be used independently or combined freely, allowing users to purchase only what suits their needs. The modular approach also makes it easy to expand the set over time.All components are designed to stack neatly, creating compact forms that can be proudly displayed rather than hidden away. Users are free to play with their own stacking combinations.The clean lines of the cups and soft curves of the pot complement each other. The ring on each piece create echoes throughout the collection. It is also an important structure that enables stacking between all the parts.By reducing the variety of components and using moulds for all parts, production costs are lowered without compromising quality. The pieces are made to be sturdy, both in appearance and in usage.