How The Sea Urchin Shaped Our Approach To Urban Design
The scoop behind our unorthodox name
The origin of our name and logo generates a litany of curious questions from almost everyone. Oonee (pronounced OOH-KNEE) is derived from the Japanese word for “sea urchin,” a remarkable animal that can be found in ocean environments across the globe.
Sea urchins are fascinating. Like starfish, they come in seemingly unlimited combinations of shapes, sizes, and colors. They live by themselves or together in groups, and can adapt to a wide array of climates. Many people recognize sea urchins because of the spines that cover their bodies. Their spines protect their valuable goods from predators.
Many of the brands operating in the street hardware and mobility space are sterile and corporate; infrastructure isn’t very exciting to most people. Oonee is a new approach to this space. We believe that street hardware can be engaging, social and even fun. Public spaces are about people, not just metallic objects.
Like the sea urchin, mobility infrastructure should be adaptable and malleable, with the ability to exist harmoniously alongside its surroundings. We believe that hardware can be rugged, smart, and harmonious — with the ability to make a bold statement, while also complementing dynamic public spaces.
