Kimonos are immediate signifiers of luxuriant relaxation, and designer Pablo Carballal hopes to pass that feeling on in furniture form with his Kimono Armchair. In both form and outline, the lounge seat pays tribute to the traditional Japanese garment subtly — "halfway between immediate evidence and excessive distance," according to Carballal.
Part of the reference to kimonos comes from the flowing form of the wood that makes up the chair. The arms gently rise and curve over the outer edge of the chair in the same way that a kimono's fabric covers the body while also flowing outward at the lapels and around the ankles. Further, from a bird's eye view, the chair has the outline of a person wearing a kimono.
Kimono-Inspired Armchairs
The Kimono Armchair Subtly Reference the Silk Garment
Trend Themes
1. Luxury Relaxation - The trend of incorporating luxurious and relaxing elements into furniture design creates opportunities for innovative and comfortable seating solutions.
2. Cultural References - The trend of subtly referencing cultural elements in design opens up avenues for creating unique and visually appealing products.
3. Fluid Form - The trend of incorporating fluid and flowing shapes into furniture design presents opportunities for creating visually captivating and elegant seating options.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture Design - The furniture design industry can capitalize on the trend of incorporating elements of luxury, cultural references, and fluid forms to create innovative and visually appealing seating options.
2. Interior Design - The interior design industry can leverage the trend of kimonos-inspired armchairs to create unique and visually striking spaces that incorporate cultural references and luxury relaxation.
3. Home Decor - The home decor industry can embrace the trend of incorporating kimono-inspired armchairs to introduce a touch of elegance and cultural richness in interior design.