Kawadoko Bench: Bringing Coolness into Daily Life

Award-winning design inspired by traditional Japanese architecture

The Kawadoko Bench draws its inspiration from the Kawadoko, which are platforms built over rivers in Japan during the summer. These platforms allow people to escape the heat and enjoy the soothing sound of water, the cool breeze, and the mist. Shih An Ko aimed to evoke the memories of Kawadoko and recreate that sense of coolness in a functional piece of furniture.

What sets the Kawadoko Bench apart is its unique design features. The long gaps between the seat slats create a cool and well-ventilated sitting experience, allowing air to circulate and providing a refreshing seating option during hot summer days. The seat slats are cut into flat surfaces for comfort, while the edges remain circular, resembling the shape of bamboo and serving as handles when moving the bench.

The Kawadoko Bench is carefully designed with user experience in mind. Its wider width allows users to sit cross-legged or even lie down to rest comfortably. The height of the shelf is positioned at the perfect height for easy access, ensuring that anything placed on it is within reach. Additionally, a foldable cushion can be added during winter to enhance comfort.

The construction of the Kawadoko Bench utilizes traditional woodworking techniques such as tenon and mortise, ensuring its durability and stability. The bench is made from white oak, a high-quality material known for its strength and beauty. The 1.5 meters-long wooden rods, a technical challenge in the making process, were successfully crafted using customized jigs to stabilize them.

The Kawadoko Bench project started in August 2020 and was completed in January 2021 in Taiwan. Throughout the design process, Shih An Ko conducted research on traditional Japanese architecture and the relationship between furniture and human body scale. This research informed the design and contributed to the refinement of the prototype.

The Kawadoko Bench has received recognition for its innovative design and contribution to quality of life improvements. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2021. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence, making the world a better place through art, science, design, and technology.

The Kawadoko Bench is not just a piece of furniture; it is a unique and refreshing experience that brings the tranquility of Kawadoko into daily life. With its thoughtful design and attention to detail, this award-winning bench is a testament to the intersection of art, architecture, design, and innovation.