eterble has asked space creative professionals with a variety of perspectives on how to make a rich table space, ideas, and its techniques.

In this volume we talk with Yumiko Ito, a food and space producer, who works around on the theme of “enjoying the good old Japanese things and events in a modern way”. She explained about the Japanese modern coordination on the theme of “tea time” that she created for the eterble pop-up event.

ーYou took part in exhibiting your table coordination, themed around “Chic Tea Time: Modern Japanese Coordination to Enjoy New Tea” at eterble’s pop up event. What were some of the points you focused on?

I have proposed a new image for a Japanese-style table by adding colorful accents with tablecloths and runners.

The concept was set with “chic = elegant and stylish” in mind. My idea of “stylish” is the harmonious balance between the old and the new.

In this table coordination, while using traditional and high-quality Japanese tableware as a base, I intentionally combined modern metal items and Western table linens. This reflects my desire for people to enjoy the traditional seasonal element of new tea in a contemporary way.

ーHow was it to actually coordinate with eterble’s tablecloths?ー

As a table coordinator, I’ve seen many table linens, but eterble’s products have exquisite colors that are incredibly beautiful and not overly assertive, making them very easy to use.

For this project, I used the ‘Liz’ tablecloth as the main feature. The overall table, with its subdued tones, resulted in an elegant and serene coordination.

I would be delighted if people could see that even tablecloths and runners with a strong Western atmosphere can be compatible with Japanese tableware, depending on how they are used.

ーWhat do you find appealing about eterble?ー

At first, I simply focused on the beautiful colors and designs. However, as I learned more about eterble’s policy as a sustainable tableware brand and their development story, I became a fan. As a table coordinator, I have an interest in sustainability and a desire to choose environmentally friendly options whenever possible, but it’s surprisingly rare to find products that I also like in terms of design.

What makes eterble so appealing is that it fulfills both the “philosophy” and the “visual appeal.”

ーAre there any items from eterble that you particularly liked? Could you share any items you would like to use yourself or give as a gift, along with the reasons why?ー

If I were to choose a gift, I would recommend the reversible ‘memoria Luncheon mat’ for those not familiar with table coordination and ‘Sintra’ for those who enjoy entertaining. Both items can be used daily and are the type of table linens that are always useful, no matter how many you have. They are items that both the giver and the receiver can be pleased with, without any pressure.

For personal use, I love using the ‘eterble patchwork Multi cloth’ for outdoor activities like barbecues and picnics because it’s so convenient to carry. Just having this colorful cloth instantly adds a special touch and lifts the mood, making it one of my absolute favorites!

Recently, I fell in love at first sight with the  ‘eterble life Sommelier apron’,  which has a beautiful silhouette and color. As my profession requires wearing an apron, I appreciate this item as something I can cherish and use for a long time.

Profile

Yumiko Ito

Based in Ginza, Tokyo, she is a certified instructor and coordinator at FSPJ, a company specializing in food space design.

As a food space producer, she engages in table coordination, displays, and event production for corporate clients, with the theme of “enjoying traditional Japanese items and culture in a contemporary way.” She is also an active table coordination instructor at the FSPJ Table Coordination School’s Ginza main campus.