Japanese tradition serves as the inspiration forVilleroy & Boch’s new Boule Kyoto, the latest iteration of the iconic Boule. The design combines sculptural forms and neutral colors with more intense shades, evokingJapan’s fine craftsmanship and contemporary interior design trends, where timeless elegance is paired with refined details.
The design combines simple, geometric lines with motifs depicting cranes—birds that, in Japanese culture, are associated with longevity and good fortune. The shapes and patterns of the new Boule are also inspired by the fabrics of the kimono, a historic Japanese garment, blending elements of modern design with references to tradition.
The color palette includes light colors and vibrant shades. Warm beige tones evoke a connection to nature and convey stability, while dark red is traditionally associated in Japan with strength, courage, passion, and open-mindedness. Added to these are dark blue, which introduces depth and a sense of peace, and orange, chosen to bring energy to the composition without altering its chromatic balance.
La Boule is part of Villeroy & Boch’s heritage and was created as a reinterpretation of the Kugel, the “Sphere” designed by Helen von Boch in 1971. The piece combines ceramics, design, and functionality: when disassembled, it becomes a serving set for two people consisting of seven pieces made of premium porcelain “Made in Germany”—two bowls, two dinner plates, two soup plates, and a tray. When reassembled, it returns to its spherical form, serving as a decorative piece.
“La Boule Kyoto is much more than just an iconic product. It is an expression of balance and harmony for the modern home: a design object that captivates with its timeless elegance, perfect both as a table setting for two and as a gift idea for design enthusiasts,” says Claudia Knaupp, Executive Vice President of Marketing, Dining & Lifestyle, and Global Branding at Villeroy & Boch.
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| Villeroy & Boch presents La Boule Kyoto, a design inspired by Japanese tradition |
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