Presenting atelier MERANDI: A Convergence of Swiss Precision, Japanese Iki, and Nordic Tranquility

Originating in Bangkok with an international perspective, atelier MERANDI designs simple leather bags that merge the boundaries between item and art.

In the constantly changing realm of luxury accessories, it is uncommon to find a brand that exudes both understated confidence and uniqueness in its simplicity. Introducing atelier MERANDI, a Bangkok-based brand that designs leather bags for individuals who perceive artistry in existence and existence in artistry.

Established by Kate Socatiyanurak and Grace Tungpanitansook, experienced entrepreneurs renowned for developing innovative, design-oriented enterprises, atelier MERANDI embodies their most recent and ambitious creative endeavor.

Upon initial observation, MERANDI’s inaugural creation, the MIKI bag, embodies a distinct form of luxury: one founded not on logos or ephemeral trends, but on meticulous craftsmanship, intentional materials, and a profoundly contemplated design philosophy, influenced by Swiss precision, Japanese understated elegance, and Nordic appreciation for serene minimalism.

As younger consumers prioritize meaning, quality, and design integrity over traditional trademarks, businesses such as MERANDI are reinventing luxury in the 2020s as thoughtful, meticulously crafted, and emotionally impactful. Located in Bangkok, MERANDI leverages the city's emerging status as a creative hub, fusing a cosmopolitan perspective with local workmanship.

The MIKI's silhouette is inspired by the Japanese art of origami, elegantly incorporating a "M" into its silky calf leather design. The design is both immediately relatable and uniquely distinct – comfortable, sophisticated, and ageless.

The brand is founded and creatively directed by Kate and Grace. Despite being outside the conventional fashion industry, they possess substantial interdisciplinary expertise: Kate, an alumna of the London School of Economics, provides strategic insight, and Grace, with her background in communications and culinary arts, offers a sensory, customer-focused perspective. MERANDI represents their third collaboration, succeeding two lucrative enterprises that fostered a devoted community.

“We are not establishing a handbag brand in the conventional manner,” state co-founders Kate and Grace. “We are developing a concept — a concept that coincidentally manifests as a bag.” We do not favor categorization.

That concept is already reverberating.

“Prior to our official launch, we started to garner interest through our established networks — from stylists and boutique buyers throughout Asia and Europe, presumably attracted to our sophisticated aesthetic and sleek lines — a design that is uncomplicated yet distinctive,” they state. “We are investigating collaborations in France, Japan, Singapore, and the Middle East, along with novel materials that correspond with our principles.” The contemporary world is rapidly evolving, and we are grateful for the positive reception we have garnered despite our nascent status as a brand. This demonstrates that there remains an opportunity for companies that develop gradually and communicate subtly.

This October, the company will premiere at Tranoï Paris, showcasing their forthcoming Spring/Summer 2026 collection and providing insight into the expansive vision they are cultivating, grounded in authenticity rather than superficiality, as stated on their Instagram @ateliermerandi. All of it presented with a subtle accessibility that renders MERANDI’s works as practical as they are lyrical.