Isto Planter

Caudex is a NYC-based project offering wheel-thrown ceramic planters. Thrilling both in the incredible variety of the plant world and the possibility of man-made design, it taps into both of these passions to craft functional objects with a strong decorative presence. The vessels are built in two parts: the top, featuring a drainage hole, holds the plant; and the glaze-lined base collects excess water, allowing plants to thrive with proper drainage. High-fired clays are more durable than terra cotta, while providing the texture and porosity essential to root health. Originally from Quebec, Éloïse Larochelle worked as a fashion designer in Paris for nearly a decade before moving to NYC and shifting her focus to the slower craft of ceramics. All Caudex vessels are designed and handmade by her. A caudex is a water-retaining structure formed by certain arid-climate plants to store water. Over time, these thickened stems become unique sculptural forms.