Pagoda: A Unique Cabinet Design Inspired by Buddhist Symbols

A Modern Twist on Traditional Storage

Pagoda is a modern cabinet that opens and closes in a unique way, inspired by the symbolism of Buddhist pagodas. Designed by Pandi Li, this cabinet combines traditional icons with contemporary aesthetics, creating a truly one-of-a-kind piece of furniture.

The inspiration for Pagoda came from the significance of Buddhist pagodas as places where scriptures are stored. The design team, led by Pandi Li, aimed to incorporate this meaning into a functional storage solution. The result is a cabinet that not only stores belongings but also serves as a beautiful decorative piece.

What sets Pagoda apart from other cabinets is its distinctive appearance and functionality. The cabinet's design mimics the shape of a pagoda, making it a unique addition to any space. Instead of the traditional drawer opening, Pagoda features a revolving shaft at the back. Users can open the cabinet by rotating it around this axis, providing a fresh and innovative way to access their belongings.

Aside from its visual appeal, Pagoda's unconventional opening mechanism offers practical advantages. By rotating the cabinet, users can access more areas of the storage space, maximizing its usability. The bottom layer of the cabinet is a traditional drawer, ensuring stability and providing a convenient storage option for smaller items. Additionally, Pagoda is equipped with four universal wheels, making it easy to move around and adapt to different spaces.

The material used for Pagoda is red zebra horse wood, sourced mainly from Cameroon and Gabon. This type of wood offers numerous advantages, including its straight texture, fine wood structure, and obvious mineral lines. Red zebra wood is known for its physical strength and resistance to rot, making it a durable choice for furniture. Its excellent dyeing and polishing properties result in a polished face with a faint red hue, adding to its unique aesthetic appeal.

The Pagoda cabinet measures 50cm in length, 50cm in width, and 76cm in height, making it a versatile piece suitable for various spaces and purposes.

The design project for Pagoda began in September 2020 in Milan and was completed in February 2021. It was exhibited in China in the same year, showcasing its innovative design and craftsmanship.

Pagoda is not only a functional storage solution but also a work of art that adds beauty to any environment. Its unique design and innovative opening mechanism make it a standout piece in the market. As Pandi Li, the designer behind Pagoda, explains, "We aimed to create a cabinet that merges traditional symbols with modern products, offering a fresh and unique experience for users."

Pagoda has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2021. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate practicality, innovation, and adherence to professional and industrial standards.

With its blend of tradition and modernity, Pagoda is a testament to the power of innovative design in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing furniture. Whether used in homes or offices, this unique cabinet is sure to make a statement and elevate any space.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Bruce Tao
Image Credits: Creator (Bruce Tao / Designer)
Project Team Members: Design leader: Qi Wang Designer: Quanwei Ma
Project Name: Pagoda
Project Client: Bruce Tao


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