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| DESIGN DETAILS |
DESIGN NAME:
Sukiya Serenity
PRIMARY FUNCTION:
Chair
INSPIRATION:
In designing a wooden chair, I wanted to achieve a form that was unique to wood, rather than just taking advantage of the characteristics of wood. As I watched the setting sun shine through the linear design of a traditional Japanese sukiya-style house, and as I continued my research, I realized that it is light and shadow that bring out the most appeal of natural materials and Japanese aesthetics. Therefore, I decided to create a form that makes the most of shadows.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The main element is the molding under the seat. Based on the design of facades often seen in Sukiya architecture, this is a linear composition using square timbers. The finely calculated wooden parts intentionally create space, and the light shining through the gaps brings out the natural texture and attractive color of the wood. This creates a sense of calmness and brightness in the space, and the chair itself is intended to serve as an accent.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION:
This chair was designed to provide a moment of relaxation and release from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
It incorporates the Japanese wabi-sabi style, giving a sense of serenity to the space. The construction method, which has been handed down from ancient times, is built according to certain standards, so there is no waste.
We take the design that is created because of this construction method as the DNA of woodworking and reinterpret it as a different value in the form of furniture.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION:
This project began in October 2023 and ended in June 2024. At the same time, it won a silver prize at the Asahikawa International Furniture Competition, and was exhibited in Hokkaido until September 2024.
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY:
Furniture Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY:
The chair is an economical wood-turning model, designed with mass production in mind, without the need for complex machining. This is to reflect the Japanese culture of eliminating waste.
All parts are precisely machined by NC.
The rear leg parts, backboard parts, and the entire structure are straight, so very little scrap wood is produced.
The parts of the backboard are machined by hand by craftsmen, creating gentle curves.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES:
width 500mm depth 500mm height 815mm
TAGS:
chair, armchair, japanesestyle, Japandi, wood, furniture
RESEARCH ABSTRACT:
Japan is a resource-rich country with forests covering 70% of its land, and from the perspective of the SDGs, we wanted to create a chair with a structure that minimizes waste during production and reflects traditional forms that can only be found in Japan.
Underlying the theme is a desire to make the public aware of the finite nature of wood resources and to further revitalize the furniture design industry.
CHALLENGE:
The legs are 27 mm thick; if they are too thick, they look cheap, and if they are too thin, they look unreliable.
Several prototypes were made, each adjusted by 1mm.
The backrest is composed of curves and straight lines. Since the entire chair is composed of straight lines, if the backrest were only curved, it would give an alien impression. This is to ensure that the overall atmosphere of the chair is neither too hard nor too loose.
ADDED DATE:
2025-02-16 22:42:44
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS:
Main image #1: International Furniture Design Fair Asahikawa Organizing Committee, Sukiya Serenity, 2024
Optional image #1: Yui Kitahara, Sukiya Serenity, 2024
Optional image #2: Yui Kitahara, Sukiya Serenity, 2024
Optional image #3: Yui Kitahara, Sukiya Serenity, 2024
Optional image #4: Yui Kitahara, Sukiya Serenity, 2024
PATENTS/COPYRIGHTS:
Yui Kitahara 2024
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| COMMENTS |
| Giulia Esposito |
Comment #103806 on June 20, 2025, 2:24 pm |
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I am truly impressed by the exquisite craftsmanship and thoughtful approach embodied in the "Sukiya Serenity" chair; the meticulous attention to detail in combining traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design principles is genuinely inspiring. The intentional use of linear elements, skillfully arranged to capture and play with light and shadow, beautifully highlights the natural beauty and texture of the wood. Moreover, the deliberate care taken to achieve optimal proportions and structural economy, while simultaneously emphasizing sustainability and minimal waste, demonstrates exceptional sensitivity and intelligence in furniture design. The well-balanced juxtaposition of straight lines and subtle curves creates an inviting sense of harmony and elegance, resulting in a unique piece that not only complements but also enhances its surrounding space. It is evident that this remarkable creation represents a profound understanding of material, form, and cultural heritage, making it a genuinely deserving recipient of the prestigious A' Design Award; my sincere admiration goes to Yui Kitahara.
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| Chloe Turner |
Comment #104427 on June 20, 2025, 7:34 pm |
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I am genuinely captivated by the thoughtful elegance and refined sensitivity to material and form embodied in the award-winning chair design, Sukiya Serenity; the exquisite craftsmanship eloquently captures the delicate interplay of light and shadow, reminiscent of the peaceful allure found within traditional Japanese sukiya-style architecture. The meticulous attention to detail and sophisticated exploration of wood as a medium demonstrates an insightful understanding of Japanese aesthetic principles, gracefully highlighting the inherent beauty and versatility of natural materials. I deeply admire how the designer seamlessly integrates poetic inspiration drawn from observing sunlight filtering through traditional structures, transforming a visual experience into a tangible yet ethereal piece of furniture art. Witnessing Sukiya Serenity fills me with both appreciation and inspiration, affirming the profound depth of creativity and skill evident in the designer's achievement.
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| Paul Phillips |
Comment #104829 on June 20, 2025, 10:55 pm |
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I am genuinely impressed by the thoughtful integration of traditional Sukiya architectural elements into the elegant design of the "Sukiya Serenity" chair, particularly the careful molding beneath the seat which showcases remarkable craftsmanship with its linear arrangement of square timbers. The deliberate creation of space within the finely composed wooden structure is especially captivating, allowing subtle play of light to beautifully highlight the wood's natural texture and warm hues, thus imparting a serene yet vibrant atmosphere to any interior. The chair's design embodies a harmonious balance between understated sophistication and functional artistry, making the chair not only a practical furnishing piece but also a striking focal point in the room. The insightful attention to detail and sensitivity to both form and material evident in the design thoroughly deserve recognition through this prestigious award, and I sincerely look forward to experiencing more inspiring creations from Yui Kitahara in the future.
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| Elisabeth Clark |
Comment #105470 on June 21, 2025, 4:17 am |
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I am truly impressed by the elegance and thoughtful craftsmanship demonstrated in Yui Kitahara's award-winning chair, Sukiya Serenity, which beautifully captures the essence of traditional Japanese Sukiya architecture through its meticulous linear composition beneath the seat. The precise calculation of wooden elements and intentional creation of gaps allowing light to pass through highlight the natural beauty and warmth of wood, gracefully balancing calmness and brightness within the surrounding space. I greatly admire the sensitivity and insight behind the design, particularly the inspiration drawn from observing the interplay of light and shadow in traditional Japanese aesthetics, which effectively showcases the distinctive qualities unique to wooden materials. Furthermore, I deeply appreciate the research-driven approach emphasizing sustainability and raising awareness about responsible resource utilization, demonstrating an exemplary combination of aesthetic excellence with environmental considerations. Yui Kitahara's Sukiya Serenity chair is indeed a remarkable and inspiring embodiment of thoughtful furniture design.
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| Adam Harris |
Comment #106050 on June 21, 2025, 9:07 am |
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Discovering Sukiya Serenity is truly inspirational, as the chair beautifully captures the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics in a refined and contemporary manner. The meticulous attention to detail, especially in the carefully calculated molding beneath the seat, gracefully highlights the natural charm of the wood, while the interplay of light and shadow through the linear composition brings a sense of tranquility and warmth. I deeply appreciate how the design thoughtfully emphasizes sustainability by minimizing waste in production, reflecting a sincere commitment to environmental responsibility and respect for Japan's rich natural resources. Moreover, the careful consideration given to the proportions of the legs and the harmonious combination of curves and straight lines in the backrest demonstrate exceptional sensitivity to balance and visual harmony. It is clear to me that Sukiya Serenity represents not only a remarkable achievement in furniture design but also a meaningful contribution to preserving and revitalizing traditional craftsmanship within a modern context.
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| Paul Williams |
Comment #106419 on June 21, 2025, 12:12 pm |
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Sukiya Serenity beautifully captures the essence and elegance of traditional Japanese aesthetics, seamlessly translating architectural inspiration into a sophisticated furniture piece that evokes calmness and brightness through its interplay of light and shadow. The thoughtful attention to detail in the molding beneath the seat, inspired by Sukiya architecture, demonstrates incredible precision and deep respect for the natural qualities of wood, highlighting its textures and enhancing its intrinsic beauty. I deeply appreciate the meticulous research and consideration given to sustainable production methods, ensuring minimal waste and responsibly addressing resource limitations, which further elevates the significance and relevance of this exceptional chair. The careful balance in the design of Sukiya Serenity, achieved through the precise refinement of leg thickness and a harmonious blend of straight and curved lines, exemplifies mastery and dedication to both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. It is truly inspiring to witness such innovative craftsmanship and creativity recognized by the prestigious A' Furniture Design Award, affirming the outstanding contribution of Sukiya Serenity to the field of furniture design.
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| Mark Allen |
Comment #107011 on June 21, 2025, 5:08 pm |
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The "Sukiya Serenity" chair is a remarkable demonstration of thoughtful craftsmanship and refined aesthetics, beautifully capturing the essence of traditional Japanese Sukiya architecture through the innovative use of linear compositions and calculated spaces beneath the seat. The meticulous care in balancing the thickness of the chair legs and integrating subtle curves within predominantly linear forms highlights a sensitive approach to design, ensuring visual harmony and structural integrity. Moreover, the conscious decision to utilize sustainable production methods, minimizing waste and skillfully incorporating the interplay of light and shadow, further emphasizes the depth of consideration behind this exceptional piece. The commitment to showcasing natural wood textures through strategic placement of gaps showcases an admirable appreciation for material authenticity, ultimately providing a sense of calmness and brightness in any living space. This outstanding creation undoubtedly deserves recognition and celebration for attaining the prestigious A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category.
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| Elena Petrenko |
Comment #107415 on June 21, 2025, 8:49 pm |
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The elegant interplay of precisely calculated wooden forms and thoughtful use of shadow beautifully encapsulates the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics, resulting in a chair that radiates both tranquility and sophistication.
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