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Sukiya Serenity Chair Melds Japanese Aesthetics, Sustainable Craft, and Modern Furniture Design

Yui Kitahara, an Osaka-based designer, has been recognized with the Silver A' Furniture Design Award 2025 for her latest creation, the Sukiya Serenity chair. Drawing inspiration from the serene interplay of light and shadow in traditional Japanese sukiya-style houses, Kitahara sought to create a wooden chair that not only celebrates the natural beauty of wood but also transforms the atmosphere of any space it inhabits. The chair debuted at the Asahikawa International Furniture Competition in Hokkaido, where it was exhibited through September 2024.

The Sukiya Serenity chair stands out for its distinctive molding beneath the seat, a feature inspired by the facades of sukiya architecture. This linear composition of square timbers is meticulously calculated to create intentional gaps, allowing light to filter through and accentuate the wood's natural texture and color. The result is a piece that brings calmness and brightness to its surroundings, serving both as a functional chair and a visual accent. Kitahara's design philosophy emphasizes not only aesthetics but also sustainability, with the chair engineered for mass production using economical wood-turning techniques and minimal waste, reflecting Japan's cultural values of resourcefulness and respect for materials.

Every aspect of the Sukiya Serenity chair was carefully considered, from the precise NC-machined parts to the hand-finished curves of the backrest, which balance straight lines with gentle arcs for comfort and harmony. The design process involved extensive prototyping to achieve the ideal thickness and proportions, ensuring the chair's durability without compromising its delicate appearance. Kitahara's commitment to sustainable design is further underscored by her use of locally sourced wood and traditional construction methods, aiming to raise awareness about the finite nature of natural resources and to invigorate the Japanese furniture industry with new interpretations of classic forms.

The Sukiya Serenity chair measures 500mm in width and depth, and 815mm in height, embodying the wabi-sabi spirit of tranquility and understated beauty. Its recognition at the A' Furniture Design Award highlights not only Kitahara's technical and artistic expertise but also her dedication to creating furniture that offers moments of relaxation and reflection in everyday life.

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