Japanese design firm Nendo has created a steel chair designed to look like a bamboo chair. The appropriately named Bamboo-steel chair has a steel body, yet is constructed like a bamboo chair with its woven seat and wrapped support tubes.
Despite my bias (Nendo is one of my favorite design groups), the Bamboo-steel chair is easily one of the strongest designs I have seen at this year’s Milan Design Week. The chair was developed in collaboration with the National Taiwan Craft Research Institute who is seeking ways to revive traditional Taiwanese handicrafts like bamboo chair weaving.
I love the way Nendo has made a piece of steel furniture look like it is made of natural materials, without having to paint it or adorn it with cheap accessories. The Bamboo-steel chair is currently being exhibited at La Triennale di Milano as a part of the Yii collection.
Woven Steel Seats
Bamboo-Steel Chair Brings Traditional Taiwanese Crafts into the 21st Century
Trend Themes
1. Steel-bamboo Fusion - Opportunity to integrate traditional craft with modern materials to create innovative designs.
2. Reviving Traditional Crafts - Opportunity to collaborate with artisans and revive traditional crafts using contemporary techniques and materials.
3. Natural-looking Steel Furniture - Opportunity to create furniture that mimics natural materials, providing a unique aesthetic without the need for additional embellishments.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Design - Opportunity to incorporate traditional craftsmanship and modern materials to create visually appealing and functional furniture.
2. Interior Design - Opportunity to enhance interior spaces by incorporating natural-looking steel furniture that adds a touch of uniqueness and elegance.
3. Craftsmanship Collaboration - Opportunity for design firms to collaborate with traditional artisans, preserving and evolving traditional crafts through innovative design approaches.