Outotsu

Glass and Coaster for U&

Outotsu means unevenness in Japanese. Stacking is now possible with the concave part of the glass and the convex part of the coaster. The coaster absorbs water droplets that form on the glass. It also has excellent deodorizing and antibacterial properties. The protrusions on the bottom of the glass create convection when you pour a drink into it, drawing in air that enhances the aroma and balances the flavor of the drink. There is no need to mix with a stirrer, and the beer will foam better. Another convenient feature is that both can be stacked for storage.

Download Press Kit № 153938

Download Press Kit № 153938 Glass and Coaster for U& by Satoshi Umeno to access high-res images, essential texts, translations, and exclusive interviews—all in one.

Available Now for Your Next Story

At design|newsroom, we understand the pressures and deadlines journalists face. That’s why we offer exclusive access to our curated press kits and high-resolution images, tailored for accredited journalists. These resources are designed to enrich your stories with depth and visual appeal, spotlighting the world's most innovative designs.

Please Note:

• Credit the work's creator and/or photographer.
• Mention design|newsroom as your source.
• Share your published pieces with us; we love to celebrate and promote your work on our platform and social media.

Let’s Collaborate: Your stories matter. design|newsroom is here to support you with quality, accessible content. Once you are accredited, reach out for the images and content you need. We will provide the specific images and content directly, along with recommendations on works to feature.

Get Accredited Easily: Quick access to our resources requires media accreditation. Apply for media accreditation to join our network and start exploring a wealth of design stories.

Outotsu by Satoshi Umeno

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

Glass and Coaster by Satoshi Umeno

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

Satoshi Umeno Outotsu

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

Satoshi Umeno Glass and Coaster

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

Satoshi Umeno Designer Portrait Photo

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

U amp Brand Logo

Download 1800 Pixels JPEG Image.

Unique Properties

The coaster absorbs drops of water from the condensation on the glass. The coaster also has excellent deodorant and antibacterial properties, and the protrusion on the bottom of the glass creates convection when the drink is poured, bringing the air in to enhance the aroma of the drink and balance the taste. There is no need to mix with a muddler, and the beer foams better. Both can be stacked separately for easy storage and are effective at deodorizing and preventing mold in cupboards.

Tags

glass coaster tableware

Production Technology

The raw material for the coaster, Shirasu (magma ceramic), is collected from the Shirasu Plateau, which emerged from an eruption 25,000 years ago. Shirasu is a safe natural material with excellent water absorption, deodorizing, and antibacterial properties. This material is only found in Japan, and since it does not need to be crushed or baked at high temperatures, it is an environmentally friendly material that does not place any burden on the global environment.

Design Challenge

It is extremely difficult to make a glass so that the protrusion of the coaster and the concavity of the glass fit together perfectly, but after researching the mold, the finish was completed using the skills of craftsmen. We have conducted repeated experiments and research to be able to instantly supply water droplets from the coaster. In addition, all natural materials are used, making safe and luxurious use of high-performance materials.

Project Duration

It was announced at the Tokyo International Gift Show in February 2023, and exhibited at the International Furniture Fair Tokyo in March and Interior Lifestyle Tokyo in June.

Operation Flow

Outotsu means unevenness in Japanese. By making the shape conical, we have made it possible to insert it without worrying about its orientation. In addition, the protrusion at the bottom of the glass has the function of rotating and mixing like a tornado just by pouring a drink. By using Shirasu, a natural material unique to Japan, the coaster absorbs moisture from drops and the air, and also acts as an air cleaner to deodorize the room. It is also antibacterial and expensive, so it is hygienic and safe to put in your mouth, making it a very rare material that is good for the environment.

Research

Magma ceramic is a safe natural material with excellent water absorbency, deodorizing, and antibacterial properties. The raw material is acquired from the Shirasu Plateau, which emerged from Kagoshima Prefecture to southern Miyazaki Prefecture as a result of an eruption 25,000 years ago. Unlike diatom earth, it is an eco-friendly material that does not need to be crushed or baked at high temperatures, thus placing no burden on the global environment.

Inspiration

When making alcohol and soda, coffee and milk, etc. I thought about it because it was troublesome to mix with a muddler. I also didn't want the table to get wet from the condensation on the glass. I also designed a coaster that sticks to the bottom of the glass. The stem glass-like design that does not look like a coaster at first glance is very unique. An easy-to-use product has been completed.

Project Overview

Outotsu Glass and Coaster has been a Bronze winner in the Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware and Cookware Design award category in the year 2023 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Bronze A' Design Award is given to outstanding designs that showcase a high degree of creativity and practicality. It recognizes the dedication and skill of designers who produce work that stands out for its thoughtful development and innovative use of materials and technology. These designs are acknowledged for their professional execution and potential to influence industry standards positively. Winning this award highlights the designer's ability to blend form and function effectively, offering solutions that enhance people's lives and wellbeing.

Image Credits

For design images and photos please credit Satoshi Umeno.

Bronze Recognition

Satoshi Umeno was recognized with the coveted Bronze A' Design Award in 2024, a testament to excellence of their work Outotsu Glass and Coaster.

Satoshi Umeno Newsroom

Discover outstanding design and award-winning initiatives in the Satoshi Umeno Newsroom.