New Collection: A Collaboration Across Borders – Songshan Cultural and Creative Park x MERI

Many of you may have visited the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park in Taipei, Taiwan.

https://www.taipeinavi.com/play/431/

Originally the site of a Japanese tobacco factory, this historic location has been beautifully revitalized into a vibrant creative hub, housing art galleries, cafes, and unique shops within its original architecture. It is also home to Design Pin, a select shop that has carried our products for some time. The surrounding area has become a center of modern culture, featuring the Eslite Spectrum, Eslite Hotel, and the recently opened Taipei Dome.

We are excited to announce the launch of a new product series in both Japan and Taiwan, inspired by the historical graphic archives preserved at this iconic site.

The Story Behind the Collaboration

This project was born from a partnership between "Sumida Modern" (a regional brand from Sumida City, Tokyo) and the Taiwan Design Research Institute (TDRI). It is further strengthened by the friendly relationship between Sumida City and the Taipei Culture Foundation / Songshan Cultural and Creative Park.

As a leading creative landmark in Taiwan, the park is famous for its iconic architecture and grand chimney. For this collection, we looked to the past for inspiration—specifically the decorative graphics found on vintage tobacco packaging, the captivating color palettes of the era, and the striking silhouette of the factory itself. We then reinterpreted these elements into approachable, modern motifs.

The collection features three distinct designs: “Banana”  “Takarajima” (Treasure Island), and “Paradise.” Each is available in three carefully curated color variations.

These pieces strike a perfect balance between a nostalgic, retro aesthetic and a modern, airy feel. Designed to be attached to a buttonhole, they serve as a subtle yet stylish accent, adding a touch of unique personality to any outfit.

Our goal was to balance cultural heritage with a "light" and playful design, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with the park would instinctively find the products "kawaii" (cute) and charming.

Where to Find the Collection

• In Taiwan: Sales have launched at Design Pin, located within the park, coinciding with Taipei Fashion Week.

• In Japan: The collection is available at our flagship store, MERI Ryogoku, and through our official online store.

We plan to expand the number of retailers in both countries in the near future.

By transforming historical archives into modern products, we hope to offer more opportunities to experience culture in daily life. This project stands as a testament to the new possibilities of creative collaboration between Japan and Taiwan.

MERI Official Online Store
https://meri.daidai.tokyo/collections/meri-buttonhook