Rentaro Nishimura, master of 3D design

Rentaro Nishimura is a London-based designer who graduated from the Architectural Association School of Architecture in 2004. Although very inspired by large architectural works, he has shifted his focus to smaller scale projects like furniture and product design. Applying his vast knowledge and creative skills he started transforming 2D materials into 3D objects. These objects are designed to enhance interior spaces – or to adorn yours truly. The most popular Rentaro Nishimura items are the Queen of Hearts Ring Kits. Inspired by Alice in Wonderland’s Queen of Hearts, the self-assembly ring is available in red, black, blue or clear. The cheeky ring comes on an acrylic sheet, where the only way to achieve your royal status is to assemble the ring yourself. All you have to do is pop them out of the sheet and snap the pieces into place. He also has the Cube and Sphere rings, which are laser-cut onto acrylic sheets. These are not self-assembly, but look fabulous on. They are designed to glitter and shine when they catch the light. These rings come in aqua, citrus, and ice colours, and can be purchased in three sizes. 

One item that is not for sale but shows Nishimura’s complete creative range is the Alvioni: a wedding dress made out of synthetic paper, which was designed for a friend’s wedding. It is a series of simple folded sheets that covers the bride’s body allowing full movements: “A marriage created between aesthetic and functionality.” 

As well as laser cut rings and wedding dresses there is a wide array of intricate self-assembly lampshades. Easily assembled without tools or glue, it’s done by simply folding ready cut/scored sheets. The first in the series is called Mar, short for March. Each lampshade design will represent one month of the year. Nishimura’s wish is for users to enjoy their interior by casually changing their lampshade for each month of the year. 

Rentaro Nishimura’s products can be purchased on several online shops and are sold throughout the UK, Indonesia and Switzerland. For more information on stockists check out his website here or follow him on Twitter @rentaro_uk. 

Gillian Horsley