What is the measure of beauty? Can wonder ever be truly realized?
Both may be unconventional or difficult to convey, but this is exactly why we embrace the challenge.
We believe in the unquantifiable values in life that enrich everyday experience.
We trust our senses. This is how we explore. This is how we create.
We make it because we want it.
Leave the ordinary, enter the extraordinary.
the BALMUDA way
We don’t create for functionality and convenience alone — we create to bring wonder back into everyday life. What sets us apart is the way we explore, with boundless curiosity in ideation and relentless precision in design and development.
1.ideation:
Whether it's an unforgettable journey in Spain, a rain-soaked company barbecue, or fond childhood memories of a summer breeze, inspiration lives in every moment. We embrace possibility, anytime, anywhere — because sometimes the extraordinary sparks appear in the most unexpected places.
2.design:
Our approach to design is rooted in the timeless Japanese values of teinei-sa (thoughtful, mindful attention to detail) and kodawari (the pursuit of perfection). Every product is crafted to do more than just function — it shapes the atmosphere and feelings that surround you.
3.engineering:
From over 1,000 hours of experimental toasting to a six-year journey to perfect the balance of aroma, taste, and aftertaste, we push boundaries relentlessly and stay dedicated through every step of the development process until our vision takes shape.
“imagining something that has never existed, drawing a picture of the future–that’s the power of creativity”
product timeline
BALMUDA began with a single prototype crafted in a small room in a home. Built on a foundation of thoughtful design and innovative ideas, our products are created with the desire to bring wonder back into everyday life, and transform ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences.
x-base (2003)
Gen Terao single-handedly founds BALMUDA Design, driven by a determination to create the most stylish products in the world. From a small workshop space, he meticulously crafts aluminum and steel components by hand, assembling them into BALMUDA Design’s first product — the X-Base, a cooling stand for laptops.
the toaster (2015)
BALMUDA steps into the kitchen appliance world with a bold mission to perfect toast through science. The result is an unexpected icon that takes Japan by storm before making its U.S. debut in 2019.
the kettle (2016)
BALMUDA launches The Kettle, a lightweight, perfectly sized design that makes pouring effortlessly smooth. Serving your favorite beverage transforms into an act of graceful pleasure.
the speaker (2020)
Inspired by founder Gen Terao’s days performing in a rock band, BALMUDA launches The Speaker — designed to capture the sensation of live music
in every note.
the lantern (2021)
BALMUDA introduces The Lantern,
a portable LED light with modular brightness, creating the perfect warm glow for every moment.
the brew (2021)
BALMUDA introduces The Brew, a premium coffee maker that blends innovative brewing technology with elegant design and effortless usability.
moonkettle (2024)
BALMUDA launches its first global product,
the MoonKettle, designed to unite timeless tradition with innovation and bring a sense of calm to everyday life.
gen terao
Founder
BALMUDA was founded in Tokyo in 2003. At the time, I was the only employee, and my room was the entire company. I had once dreamed of becoming a rockstar, but at 30 years old, I let go of that dream and decided to create products instead. I designed them myself, had the parts made in a small factory, then assembled everything in my room. I took photos, built a website, and with just one prototype, I visited specialty stores to showcase the product. I even made the box and wrote the instruction manual by hand. This is how BALMUDA began.
Many years ago, I dropped out of high school and set off on a solo journey through Europe. In Spain, Italy, and across southern Europe, I wandered through beautiful cities, tasted incredible food, and soaked in every sensation. Swallows fluttered in the bright, crisp air, and stars filled the sky at night. I spent my evenings alone, and when morning came, I would take a deep breath, my chest filled with the weight of history lingering in the air. I remember thinking, “What a wonderful world.” Decades have passed, and I’ve experienced many things along the way — but I still feel that way, with all my heart.
“i believe that “artistic” value, which cannot be quantified, is what enriches life. BALMUDA creates ideas based on this belief.”
Deliciousness, beauty, and a sense of comfort. I believe that artistic value — the kind that can’t be measured — is what truly enriches life. BALMUDA creates products with this belief at the core. We don’t rely on market research. We trust our senses. Every step, from design and engineering to mass production, marketing, and sales, is done in-house to bring our ideas to life.
We create products simply because we want them to exist. And if something we’ve made adds even a small joy to someone’s life somewhere in the world, that makes us truly happy.
Gen Terao, Founder
designed in tokyo
All of our products are designed and produced entirely in Tokyo, driven by a sincere desire to create meaningful experiences that bring joy to people around the world.
