Marais: A Symphony of Design and Delicacy

Kazuaki Kawahara's Award-Winning Piano Cake Packaging

Kazuaki Kawahara drew inspiration from the piano, an instrument that creates beautiful harmonies from the combination of each individual key's sound. The piano, considered a symbol of elegance and splendor in Japan, perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Marais packaging design. The gift box, much like a piano, is a harmonious assembly of individual elements, each crafted with care and attention to detail.

What sets Marais apart is its unique design approach. Unlike conventional gift boxes that simply line up the cakes, Marais' individually wrapped cakes are arranged to mimic a piano keyboard. This creative use of space not only adds aesthetic value but also allows for a wide range of keyboard sizes to be recreated, from small keyboards to full 88-key grand pianos, and even larger.

The design process involved meticulous planning and execution. The outer box was made approximately 10mm lower than the individual packages to enhance the keyboard-like appearance. The square sides of the individual packages were designed to be rotatable, allowing for the representation of different keyboard patterns. The result is a gift box that is not only visually appealing but also functional and versatile.

Since its release, Marais has garnered significant media attention, being featured in over 18 media outlets across five countries. The project, which started in June 2015 and concluded in March 2016 in Japan, was a resounding success, showcasing Kawahara's ability to transform ordinary objects into extraordinary designs.

Marais is more than just a gift box; it is a symbol of elegance, sophistication, and innovation. It is a testament to Kawahara's belief in the power of design to evoke emotions and create meaningful experiences. With each key of this gift box, the giver's feelings are sure to be heard.

Marais' success is a testament to the power of innovative design and the importance of attention to detail. It is a shining example of how design can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, creating a product that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and emotionally resonant.