The Torigoe neighborhood in Tokyo’s Taito Ward has a rich history of craftsmanship that stretches back centuries. Metalworkers and makers of religious icons have long served the area’s temples and shrines, and leather and textile workers have historically made a home here too. It’s in this context that designer Masuko Unayama established SyuRo and began selling homeware that is functional and unfussy, and often made in the local area.

Housed in a former workshop, SyuRo resembles a gallery as much as a store. SyuRo’s ethos rejects fast fashion and single-use products; materials such as linen and leather, stone and copper abound. The goods here take time and skill to make, and in turn, can be used for a long time. Carved wooden spoons and chopsticks are made from maple, Japanese o...