Top Image: Botanic Drip, Ensus at Trans Nature. Image courtesy of ENSUS

Incepted by Niigata-based processed metal manufacturer, Kousei Co. Ltd, ENSUS is a project in search of new and better ways to utilise Stainless Used Steel (SUS) and titanium. Perceiving the value of the Earth’s limited metals like jewellery, ENSUS will serve as a platform for the pursuit of new applications to maximise and drive a deeper understanding of precious metals. Kousei is also the company behind the internationally acclaimed SUSgallery. 

Ensus, Trans Nature. Image courtesy of ENSUS

“Our sustainable concept is that the intrinsic value of the products should not be based around the ‘Green Credentials’, but the interaction, or some sort of framework that firmly establishes concern between users and products within everyday life circumstances,” says Yutaka Umino, the producer of ENSUS.

At Spazio Rossana Orlandi held during Milan Design Week 2016, the ENSUS exhibition, Trans Nature, posed an invitation to visitors to contemplate SUS and titanium forms inspired by nature. The organic shapes were made possible thanks to a highly precise and sustainable production process synonymous with Japanese craftsmanship.

Botanic Drip. Image: Kenta Onoguchi

The two lighting prototypes and terrarium presented were designed by Satoshi Yanagisawa, a Japanese designer whose past credentials include working with acclaimed industrial designer Ross Lovegrove. 

One of the products, Botanic Drip is a series of suspended titanium lighting inspired by flower petals. The 3D-printed titanium ‘ripple’ surfaces offer the illusion of water in light. This unusual texture suggests a floating vortex that introduces a sensual presence to spaces, as the modules also act as lighting sculptures.

Eau. Images: Kenta Onoguchi

Another lighting piece, the Eau, is a table top lamp made up of a stainless steel structure connected to an acrylic representation of waveforms. Besides enabling day-to-day usage, the task light, inspired by the natural form of water, aims to impart spaces with tranquility. Eau is switchless and controlled using the smartphone.

Cage. Image courtesy of ENSUS

The terrarium, Cage, is composed of 14 titanium and SUS frames with wire cut glass. Magnets enable the user to freely expand the terrarium. Through Cage, ENSUS introduces a new design and material language in domestic environments.