James Kaoru creates an artistic installation using repurposed Cosentino material

James Kaoru Bury's work is characterised by its calm, ergonomic and minimalist spirit. These qualities are evident in his lamps, furniture and bathroom pieces, as well as in suitcases, prams, candles, watches, air conditioners… The Japanese designer has an extensive range of products, which, combined with his good taste and expertise, has led him to collaborate with brands such as Samsung, Nikon and Philips. Now it's Cosentino's turn: “I had been observing Cosentino materials at Milan Design Week for a long time, and it was an honour to finally create an installation that highlighted their strengths,” Kaoru acknowledges.

The project was showcased at the DESIGNART 2025 festival in Tokyo. There, the professional utilised material scraps from Cosentino's Japanese factory to create new elements aligned with his philosophy of designing spaces that are both serene and sophisticated. The installation was, in fact, named Piece of Rest.

“All colours were selected from the available scraps. We prioritised tones that matched the theme of Piece of Rest: patterns that felt calm, familiar and pleasant to live with in spaces such as bedrooms or living rooms,” explains the author.

Among the elements created by Kaoru for the project is the elegant and spacious Satsuki washbasin, crafted from leftover Dekton Taga slabs. The colour is inspired by Taj Mahal quartzite, featuring marble-like veins and crystalline luminous shine. “Dekton offers realistic patterns and exceptional water resistance, making it ideal for the washbasin. Additionally, when wet, its patterns become even richer and more expressive, enhancing the emotional atmosphere of the installation,” he explains.

The professional also created several pedestal-style pieces in different Sensa colours, such as Platino, Vancouver and Taj Mahal, three highly regarded Brazilian quartzites, and Sensa Black Beauty, an Indian black-based granite. “Sensa brings the natural luxury of stone, so even after cutting, its beauty remains intact. This makes it perfect for sculptural objects,” Kaoru notes about this line of granites and quartzites with exclusive stain-resistant protection. Sensa was also used by the designer to create a pair of sleek vases, a sort of low table and a decorative container.

All designs incorporated numerous corner cuts as well as bevelled edges, showcasing the versatility of the materials. “These details give each piece a distinct sense of depth and refinement,” explains the author, whose installation, in line with Cosentino's sustainable ethos, opens new paths for maximising the reuse of the company's materials.