Nowadays, individuals are socially conscious about what their accessories, clothes and other fashion items are made from. With the event of technology, alternatives have emerged that meet our functional and aesthetic needs.
With these possibilities in mind, Ilham Pinastiko and Slamet Riyadi, two designers from Indonesia, have developed a line of fashion and lifestyle products made from wood, called “PALA Nusantara” (Nutmeg of the Archipelago). The brand name was inspired by the recognition of pala (nutmeg), naturally grown in Indonesia, which makes the archipelago essentially the most desirable on the planet. They hope that the glory of nutmeg will be their vision of promoting Indonesia’s wealth to the world.
They first introduced their product to the market with picket watches. With easy, clean and understated designs, they highlight the natural movement and grain of the wood and the elegance of the leather strap.
Their primary materials are local wood and leather, resembling Sonokeling, Ebony, and Albasia, in addition to cowhide from Sunda or Java. They still need to import some parts from other countries, resembling watch machines from Miyota Japan and maple wood from the United States. All of their watches are splash-proof.
The watch line is available in three different colours: red (Merah), blue (Biru) and brown (Cokelat). Each design represents the craftsmanship of the indigenous Nusantara tribe with its character and uniqueness. For example, the red watches with red real leather, white stitching, dark and lightweight wood materials are inspired by human blood, which is seen as a logo of life within the Torajan tribe in Indonesia.
Both designers, who graduated with a Masters in Design from Bandung Institute of Technology, emphasize a rigorous process from research, material selection, sketch to mock-up, local craftsmanship and quality control, until the product hits the market with high efficiency and quality. “Our goal is to bring Nusantara culture to the world, so we have to do it flawlessly,” said the 2 founders.
They are expanding their product line with a picket bow tie. Its creation process is 100% based on highly expert local wood carvers in Java and chosen Indonesian materials. It has been described as “not just another fashion item but also the most modern art”. The picket bow tie goes well with formal or casual outfits, adding a contemporary and artistic fashion statement.
In the long run, PALA Nusantara hopes to explore the richness of Indonesian culture in additional urban lifestyle products. What would you wish to see next? Bracelets, shoes or bags?
