2022 NO.32
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Japan: A Culture Nurtured by Wood
Woodwork That Blends the Contemporary and the Traditional
Contemporary woodwork brings the warmth of nature and the style of great design together in pieces that evoke tradition, yet blend seamlessly with modern lifestyles.
The soft glow of wooden curves
This light fixture features a complex design of wooden curves created with a material made with a layer of cherry wood over clear polypropylene. Shaped by the wooden curves, the light casts flower-like shadows on the ceiling and walls. (Photo: Tani Toshiyuki, Lighting Designer)
World-renowned contoured chair
The Butterfly Stool is made of two sheets of plywood molded into curved shapes that mirror each other on the left and right to form a butterfly shape. This innovative and simple form by designer Yanagi Sori is admired over the world, and his chairs are part of collections in such museums as the Louvre. (Photo: TENDO CO., LTD.)
Elegant woodworking with remarkable techniques
The BUNACO brand was born in Aomori, home to the World Heritage Site of virgin beech forest in the Shirakami-Sanchi mountain range. Crafted into ribbon-like strips, the beechwood is coiled to form plates, dishes and a variety of other products. (Photo: BUNACO)
Chair doubles as a rocking horse
This child chair is both comfortable and safe. The height of the seat can be adjusted as the child grows, and it is designed to hold an adult, as well. Flip it over and it becomes a rocking horse that kids will love to play with. (Photo: Sdi Co., Ltd.)
The sound of music flows from the wood
The woodworking traditions of Hida Takayama in Gifu Prefecture are brought to contemporary life in cutting-edge headphones. The case is made of hardwood maple for good sound reverberation, and the ear covers are made of soft cypress wood to feel nice against the skin. (Photo: nokutare)
A modern twist on the traditional bento box
The magewappa technique of bending cypress or cedar into rounded shapes bound in place with cherry or birch produces lightweight bento boxes that retain moisture and protect the food inside. Combined with designs that highlight the wood grain, these boxes are a timeless favorite. (Photo: PIXTA)