kengo kuma collaborates with caran d'ache to create stylish wood and steel pen

acclaimed japanese architect, kengo kuma, has teamed up with swiss company, caran d’ache, to create a very sophisticated writing implement. fusing kuma’s favorite material – wood – with sleek steel, the new limited edition ‘varius’ pen provides the perfect tool for writing and sketching. 

images courtesy of caran d’ache

varius is designed to be more than just a pen. it’s conceived as a ‘rare object’ that combines a delicate japanese aesthetic with the expertise and craftsmanship of caran d’ache. the design makes reference to a traditional japanese toy called ‘chidori’, which is composed of interlocking of pieces of wood. 

the light-colored hinoki cypress wood on the body of the pen gives the object a warm tactile quality, in contrast to the cool silver-rhodium-plated steel. together with kengo kuma’s engraved signature, the writing instrument comes in a wooden veneer case.

to create this pen, kengo kuma drew upon his own memories, ‘the caran d’ache writing instruments that I discovered when I was in college allow me to draw clear and precise lines and express the rhythm of architecture with fluidity.’ the architect also makes reference to his experience as an architect, and how the right pen or pencil can express his design concepts: ‘I see architecture as a kind of music. music inherently links up to the inner rhythm of the body and handwriting is the best way to express it. when I write, I connect to the rhythm of architecture.’ the varius limited edition is available in ballpoint, rollerball, and fountain pen editions. 

project info:

project name: varius kengo kuma

brand: caran d’ache