jin kuramoto's root chair for arflex japan references shaker culture

jin kuramoto‘s ‘root chair’ for arflex japan aims to embody the distinct cultural aesthetic associated with ‘shaker furniture’ – a style created by the religious community in the 17th and 18th century in the U.S. the chair which was presented at tokyo design week, is the result of an exploration into the history and charm of the utopian sect, which seeked to remove decoration from life and look towards a modern way of thinking. 

‘root’ chair was shown at tokyo design week 2016

the ‘shaker’ culture is focused around religion, philosophy and observation. the lack of embellishment and joinery work apparent within the product, reflects this methodical practice and keen attention to detail. when jin kuramoto was asked to work on the project for arflex japan, he states that he was initially nervous to undertake such a difficult job, and felt that it could not be treated lightly, ‘I didn’t try to redesign only an iconic shape and style… I designed the chair by removing the decoration to the limit, therefore enhancing the beauty of framework.’