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Sakura Cyclone: A Fusion of Japanese Symbolism and Innovative Shadow Design in Furniture

The Sakura Cyclone is a conceptual low table crafted from molded cherry plywood, conceived by TOMOAKI KAGEYAMA at his lab in Nagoya. Drawing inspiration from the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms-a symbol deeply rooted in Japanese culture-the table embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics while reimagining Western furniture forms. During the day, the table's organic silhouette evokes a majestic cherry tree, inviting users to enjoy moments of relaxation and warmth.

What sets the Sakura Cyclone apart is its transformative interaction with light. When illuminated at night, the table casts intricate shadows resembling cherry blossoms in full bloom, turning any space into a celebration of ephemeral beauty. This effect is achieved through precise engineering: the molded plywood components are meticulously angled and adjusted using a wire mechanism, ensuring the shadows fall perfectly and evoke the intended visual poetry. The table's compact dimensions (H400 mm x D400 mm x W400 mm) make it suitable for homes, restaurants, or pubs seeking a touch of Japanese elegance.

The design journey began in 2022 and concluded in 2023, with the table produced in the renowned Hida furniture region of Japan. KAGEYAMA's research drew from the classic Japanese text "In Praise of Shadows" by Junichiro Tanizaki, exploring how shadow and light contribute to the unique sense of beauty in Japanese culture. Overcoming technical challenges, such as achieving the precise shadow effect only under pendant lighting, required multiple prototypes and innovative construction techniques, including diagonally mated curved wood. The result is a table that not only serves a functional purpose but also transforms everyday evenings into special, memorable experiences.

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