Toyo Stainless Polishing Industry Co., Ltd. has received the Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry Director's Award at the 10th "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize." The award-winning technology is our composite polishing technology , which we have accumulated over more than 30 years. By uniquely combining multiple polishing processes, we are able to achieve a variety of surface textures, such as mirror finish, semi-gloss, and matte, on a single metal panel. A prime example of this technology is our "Mysterious Mirror®" design stainless steel panel, which has a shimmering, water-like appearance.
In this column, we will share with architects and designers nationwide an overview of the award, the essence of the composite polishing technology that underpins Mysterious Mirror®, its fundamental differences from press processing, and the possibilities that this technology opens up for decorative stainless steel and decorative titanium.
table of contents
1. Report on receiving the Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry Director's Award at the 10th "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize"
2. What is composite polishing technology?
3. Fundamental differences from press forming – philosophy, manufacturing method, and appearance
4. The diverse expressions of Mysterious Mirror® created by composite polishing technology
5. Technology born in Japan – Imbuing culture and local characteristics into metal.
6. End-to-end process from raw materials to finished product – customization available from a single piece.
7. Sustainable metals for a sustainable society
8. Summary – To all designers
1. Report on receiving the Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry Director's Award at the 10th "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize"
The "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize" is a system that recognizes individuals who are active on the front lines of manufacturing, including core personnel in manufacturing and production sites, skilled personnel who support traditional and cultural "techniques," and young people who will lead the future. This year marks the 10th time the award has been presented, since its inception in 2005.
Our company has received the Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry Director's Award at the "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize." The award was given for our composite polishing technology that supports the manufacturing of Mysterious Mirror® . Our core technology, which has been developed over more than 30 years by uniquely combining multiple polishing and molding processes, was recognized for its contribution to the development of Japanese manufacturing.
This award is a testament to the daily dedication and hard work of each and every one of our engineers, as well as the trust placed in us by the architects, designers, and contractors who have chosen to use Mysterious Mirror®. We express our sincere gratitude once again.
Award information
Name: 10th "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize" Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry Director's Award
Target technology: Improving the quality of spatial design using 3D metal design panels
Organizer: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
2. What is composite polishing technology?
Composite polishing technology is a technique that creates surface expressions impossible with conventional metal processing by uniquely combining and integrating multiple polishing, shaping, and surface treatment techniques, rather than using a single polishing process . Our company has been refining this technology for over 30 years.
Generally, metal surface finishing is completed in a single process, such as hairline finish, vibration finish, mirror finish, or blasting. However, our composite polishing technology combines these multiple polishing techniques with 3D molding technology, grinding, buffing, and blasting in the optimal order and conditions according to the material's characteristics and the final design image.
This "design of combinations" is our core technology. The knowledge to derive the optimal solution from the countless combinations of which processes to perform, in what order, and under what conditions—this knowledge can only be obtained through 30 years of accumulated experimentation and experience. It is the culmination of manufacturing where people and technology work together, and cannot be reproduced by blueprints or manuals alone.
3. Fundamental differences from press forming – philosophy, manufacturing method, and appearance
There are several products on the market called "3D stainless steel panels." Most of them are manufactured using press processing (die pressing or embossing). Mysterious Mirror® is fundamentally different from these press-processed products. The difference lies in every aspect: the concept, the manufacturing method, and the appearance.
| Comparison item | 3D panels made by press processing | Mysterious Mirror® (composite polishing technology) |
|---|---|---|
| thought | The "shape" is pressed using a mold. Emphasis is placed on pattern reproducibility and mass production. | By fusing multiple polishing and molding techniques, we design the "expression of light." We comprehensively control the surface texture, reflective properties, and sense of fluctuation. |
| Method | Press molding is a single-step process using a die. Surface finishing is performed separately after molding. | A multi-stage process involving repeated polishing, shaping, and regrinding. The order and conditions of the process determine the final appearance. Process design based on 30 years of experience. |
| Appearance | A uniform, repeating pattern. A geometric and regular impression. Reflections are uniform. | Irregular, organic fluctuations. Light flows like water, and its appearance changes depending on the viewpoint and light source. Mirror, semi-gloss, and matte finishes coexist. |
| Surface quality | Stress marks and mold marks from the pressing process tend to remain. Surface quality depends on mold precision. | Because the polishing process also serves as the final finishing touch, the surface quality is high. It allows for the expression of delicate textures, such as deep mirror-like reflections and soft semi-gloss finishes. |
| Customizability | Pattern changes are made at the mold level. Mold manufacturing costs are required. | No molds are required. The appearance can be changed by adjusting the polishing conditions, allowing for flexible customization even for single pieces. |
While press working aims to "reproduce shapes," Mysterious Mirror®'s composite polishing technology aims to "design the expression of light." The surface of water in nature is not a repeating, regular pattern. It is irregular, organic, and changes its appearance moment by moment depending on the light conditions—to reproduce that essence on metal, a multi-layered approach combining polishing and forming is required, which cannot be achieved with press molds.
You'll see the difference immediately when you hold the actual product in your hands. The organic fluctuations and deep reflections, clearly different from the uniform patterns of press-formed products, are only possible with our composite polishing technology. That is the essence of Mysterious Mirror®, a unique expression brought about by 30 years of accumulated technology.
4. The diverse expressions of Mysterious Mirror® created by composite polishing technology
The true value of the award-winning technology lies in the wide range of surface textures possible with Mysterious Mirror®. While it's sometimes simply described as a "mirror-finish 3D panel," in reality, the combined polishing technology allows for a far more diverse range of expressions.
Surface texture achieved through composite polishing technology
■ Mirror surface (full mirror): Reflections are sharp and clear, showing the surrounding scenery and lighting distinctly. It has a deep reflective quality, like the sky and trees reflected on the surface of water.
■ Semi-gloss:While it doesn't offer the sharp reflection of a mirror, it possesses a gentle sheen and soft reflection. It has a calm beauty, like the surface of water veiled in morning mist.
■ Semi-mirror:A surface where areas with reflections and areas without them coexist. The contrast of light is emphasized, creating a sense of depth and three-dimensionality.
■ Matte (Matte Mirror):By reducing gloss and expressing a subtle, understated texture, the matte model of Ginrin is a prime example of this technique and has even been used as a reflector in a private sauna room.
■ Combined finish (coexistence of mirrored and matte surfaces):A single panel exhibits a coexistence of mirrored and matte surfaces. Varying polishing conditions create a gradient, weaving a multi-layered narrative of light within a single panel.
These textures are achieved solely through a combination of polishing processes, rather than by applying paint or film after press forming. Because the metal surface itself is physically altered, there is no risk of peeling or fading, and the aesthetic appeal is maintained for a long period of time in its installed state.
For architects and designers, this means they can choose from multiple spatial expressions with a single material. With the same Mysterious Mirror®, a full mirror finish creates a glamorous entrance, a matte model creates a serene space, and a semi-gloss finish creates a sophisticated office lounge—the way light appears can be freely controlled to match the concept of the space.
5. Technology born in Japan – Imbuing culture and local characteristics into metal.
The composite polishing technology used in Mysterious Mirror® is a technology developed in Japan.
In Japan, there is an aesthetic sense that values the texture and light-reflecting properties of materials themselves. The deep luster of lacquerware, the subtle color variations in the glazes of ceramics, the soft light that shines through washi paper—this sensibility of finding beauty in the "quality" of a surface has been nurtured by Japanese culture and climate.
Mysterious Mirror®'s composite polishing technology can be said to be an elevation of this uniquely Japanese aesthetic sense into metal surface treatment technology. The deep reflection of a mirror surface, the softness of a semi-gloss finish, and the serenity of a matte finish—these expressions are born from the Japanese manufacturing philosophy that emphasizes the "dialogue between light and material." While mass-production press processing pursues uniformity of patterns, composite polishing technology intentionally designs for "fluctuations" and "beauty in non-uniformity." This very concept is unique to Japanese manufacturing and a major differentiating factor from other countries.
Our company intends to further utilize this technology in Japanese decorative stainless steel and decorative titanium. Not only the ripples on the water's surface, but also the dynamism of the vast ocean expressed by SUIMEI, the playfulness of water depicted by JEUX D'EAU, and the shimmering scales of the kirin (mythical creature) shown by Ginrin—as these model names suggest, Mysterious Mirror® is an attempt to reflect Japan's nature and landscapes onto metal. Our mission is to imbue Japanese culture and climate with this award-winning manufacturing technology and deliver it to architectural spaces around the world.
6. End-to-end process from raw materials to finished product – customization available from a single piece.
Toyo Stainless Polishing Industry was founded with the objective of "advancing stainless steel." Maximizing the potential of stainless steel as a material has remained our core principle since our founding.
It is because of this foundation that our company has established a production system that completes everything in-house, from material procurement to polishing, molding, finishing, and panel processing . Because there is no need to outsource the work, there are no losses between processes or communication discrepancies, and we can precisely control quality and delivery times.
Another major advantage of this end-to-end system is that we can handle customization starting from just one piece . In the case of press processing, mold making is costly and time-consuming, making it practically difficult to handle small-volume custom orders. However, our composite polishing technology does not require molds. By adjusting the polishing conditions, we can change the appearance, and since we can complete cutting, bending, and panel processing in-house, we can flexibly handle customization even for just one piece.
The strength of end-to-end processing
■ Material Procurement: We select and procure the most suitable materials for each application, such as stainless steel (SUS304, SUS316L, etc.), titanium (pure titanium grade 1 and 2), and aluminum.
■ Polishing/molding:3D molding of Mysterious Mirror® using composite polishing technology. Multiple processes such as buffing, grinding, and blasting are performed in-house.
■ Finishing and processing:From cutting, bending, and welding to panel processing and surface protective film application, everything is completed in-house at our own factory.
■ Supports 1 sheet:Since no molds are required, we can accept orders starting from just one piece. It's also possible to start with a single prototype and then place additional orders after full adoption, allowing for a gradual implementation.
■ Custom sizes:We can accommodate your specified dimensions within the maximum original board size range of 1,219mm x 2,438mm (motherboard material size).
For architects and designers, the ability to start with "just one sample" significantly lowers the barrier to incorporating new materials into their designs. Even for small projects or prototypes, they can simply pick up a sample, place it in the space, and check it. This ease of use is only possible because of our integrated, end-to-end production system.
7. Sustainable metals for a sustainable society
The main material of Mysterious Mirror®, stainless steel, is a 100% recyclable metal. Even during building renovations or demolition, it is recovered as a valuable resource rather than industrial waste and reborn as new stainless steel products. Similarly, titanium is also a recyclable metal and is a material that is perfectly suited to a circular economy.
Building materials with decorative finishes achieved through paint or film require separation of the paint or film during demolition, which can hinder recycling. In contrast, Mysterious Mirror® achieves its design solely through a polishing process, meaning there is no paint or film on the surface. It can be recycled directly as metal.
Furthermore, achieving the design solely through polishing means that it "won't peel," "won't fade," and "doesn't require replacement." This directly leads to a reduction in waste and lower maintenance costs throughout the building's entire lifecycle. Sustainable metal, processed using sustainable methods, and used sustainably – Mysterious Mirror® is a building material that combines aesthetic appeal with sustainability.
We aim to contribute to creating a sustainable society by using sustainable metals such as recyclable stainless steel and titanium.
8. Summary – To all designers
The award of the Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry Director's Prize at the 10th "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize" recognizes the composite polishing technology that underpins Mysterious Mirror® as a testament to Japanese craftsmanship.
Our 3D stainless steel panels, created using press forming, are fundamentally different in their philosophy, manufacturing process, and appearance. Our composite polishing technology, accumulated over 30 years, enables a wide range of light expressions—mirror finish, semi-gloss, semi-mirror finish, matte, and their coexistence—on a single panel, something unattainable with molds.
By imbuing metal with the aesthetic sensibilities nurtured by Japanese culture and climate, we create sustainable spaces using sustainable materials. With a fully integrated processing system from raw materials to finished products, we can accommodate customization even for single pieces. This is Toyo Stainless Polishing Industry's Mysterious Mirror®.
To all architects, designers, and spatial designers nationwide: Please see the actual samples to experience the interplay of light and water created by our "3D Metal Design Composite Polishing Technology," a technology that won the "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize." We look forward to hearing from you from the design stage onwards.
Summary of key points in this column
✓ Received the Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry Director's Award at the 10th "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize".
✓ The award recognizes the more than 30 years of combined polishing technology that underpins Mysterious Mirror®.
✓ Pressing is fundamentally different in terms of philosophy, manufacturing method, and appearance.
✓ A wide variety of surface finishes are possible, including mirror finish, semi-gloss, semi-mirror finish, matte, and composite finishes.
✓ A Japanese-born technology that embodies the aesthetic sensibilities nurtured by Japanese culture and climate, infused into metal.
✓ End-to-end processing system from raw materials to finished product. Customization available from a single piece.
✓ Stainless steel and titanium are 100% recyclable. Sustainable building materials.
Request a sample or inquire about Mysterious Mirror®
You can see the diverse surface textures created by our composite polishing technology with actual samples. We also offer remote showroom tours via ZOOM and model proposals tailored to your space concept.
Related page:
Series List (Design Metal Library) / Adoption examples and images / Show Room / Award Announcement (Toyo Stainless Polishing Industry Co., Ltd.)
* Mysterious Mirror® and Metal Cosmetics® are registered trademarks of Toyo Stainless Polishing Industry Co., Ltd.
* The "Japan Manufacturing Grand Prize" is an awards program implemented jointly by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
* The appearance of the panel may vary depending on the lighting conditions and viewing angle of the installation environment. Please be sure to check with an actual sample before adoption.