Tamo Ash Wood is one of the most captivating materials in the world of interior design, and at Forwood Design, it has inspired an entire collection of handcrafted luxury desk accessories. This rare wood, admired for its swirling, tiger-like grain, has a natural elegance that feels both timeless and contemporary—perfect for homeowners and interior designers looking to add warmth, texture, and authenticity to their spaces.
The Story Behind Tamo Ash
Tamo Ash, sometimes called Japanese Tamo or Asian Tigerwood, grows primarily in Japan and northern Asia. What makes it truly remarkable is its grain: a naturally occurring, wave-like figure that gives the surface a sense of depth and movement. Traditionally, this unique pattern was so prized that it was reserved for fine furniture, musical instruments, and decorative veneers in Japan.
The wood’s name, “Tamo,” comes from the Japanese word for this rare species, native to the island of Hokkaido. With its golden hue and intricate figure, Tamo Ash has long symbolized elegance and artistry. When used in interior design, it immediately elevates a space, creating an atmosphere of calm luxury—something every home or design studio aspires to achieve.
The Advent of Tamo Ash Ink
Forwood Design’s Inspiration
Henry Forwood, Founder and Chief Designer at Forwood Design, has always drawn inspiration from nature’s artistry. On his travels, he first encountered Tamo Ash and was mesmerized by its fluid grain and rich character. Wanting to share that sense of wonder in a sustainable way, Henry developed the Tamo Ash Collection—a curated range of desk accessories that combine craftsmanship, elegance, and environmental mindfulness.
Each piece in the collection is handcrafted using responsibly sourced wood veneers, finished in two distinctive tones: Tamo Ash Blonde and Tamo Ash Ink. The Blonde finish celebrates the light, organic hues of the wood, while the Ink version adds striking contrast, perfect for modern interiors. Together, they form a versatile palette that complements both contemporary and traditional spaces.
The Tamo Ash Collection
Designed with homeowners and interior designers in mind, the Tamo Ash Collection showcases how everyday items can become works of art. Highlights include the elegant Tamo Desk Tray, Letter Rack, Pen Pot, and In-Tray—each piece featuring the signature Tamo pattern framed in stainless steel or brass.
The Tamo Ash Waste Bin and Tea Tray continue the theme of refined functionality, offering subtle luxury in the home office or living room. For a touch of warmth and ambiance, the Tamo Candle Holders—available in two heights—showcase the rich tones of Tamo Ash Ink, adding depth and sophistication to any tabletop or shelf.
Completing the collection, the Tamo Ash Photo Frames beautifully display cherished memories while doubling as design accents. Each product arrives in Forwood Design’s signature packaging, making the collection an ideal gift for anyone who values craftsmanship and style.
Forwood Design’s Tamo Ash Blonde and Ink
Why Tamo Ash Wood Stands Out
Beyond its beauty, Tamo Ash Wood represents the perfect blend of artistry and sustainability. Forwood Design’s finishing techniques preserve the wood’s natural character while ensuring it remains eco-conscious. Unlike synthetic materials, Tamo Ash develops a gentle patina over time, enhancing its depth and personality with use.
Whether featured on a home office desk, in a boutique hotel, or as part of a designer’s curated project, pieces from the Tamo Ash Collection reflect sophistication that never fades. It’s a reminder that luxury doesn’t have to shout—it can whisper through texture, grain, and craftsmanship.
Final Thoughts
The Tamo Ash Collection is a celebration of natural design, timeless beauty, and ethical craftsmanship. It pays tribute to the artistry of Japanese Tamo while embodying Forwood Design’s modern British sensibility. For those who appreciate detail, texture, and elegance in everyday objects, this collection transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.
From statement trays to understated desk accessories, each Tamo Ash piece brings nature’s poetry into your home—sustainably and beautifully.
