Tao Rocking Chair: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

Designer Hsu-Hung Huang Merges Taiwanese Maritime Culture with Contemporary Furniture Design

Hsu-Hung Huang's design draws its inspiration from Taiwan's unique marine culture and spirit, particularly the indigenous nations with their diverse legends, crafts, and ceremonies. The Tao Rocking Chair is a reflection of this cultural heritage, integrating spiritual and societal knowledge into its design. The chair is a tribute to Taiwan's picturesque and mountainous landscape, demonstrating the country's tremendous cultural diversity.

The Tao Rocking Chair is crafted from Ash, Oak, and Beech, mirroring the traditional boat-building methods of the Tao people. The structure of the chair is designed to be durable, resisting deformation significantly against changes in environmental humidity. The hand-rubbed Danish oil finish gives the chair a natural and original wood texture, combining traditional craft with contemporary fabrication.

The chair's design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also interactive. Sitting on the Tao Rocking Chair is likened to taking a boat ride. When users sit on the rocking chair and get it going, the chair mimics the motion of a boat gliding on the vast sea. The designer has successfully transformed the experience of rowing a Tao canoe into the joyfulness of swinging in a rocking chair.

The Tao Rocking Chair project began in May 2017 in London and concluded in September of the same year. It was later exhibited at the Viaduct Showroom London, Goldsmith University London, and Eslite Bookstore Taiwan in July 2018 and 2019. The project was a testament to Hsu-Hung Huang's commitment to preserving traditional culture while introducing it to the world through contemporary design methods.

The Tao Rocking Chair was awarded the Bronze A' Furniture Design Award in 2022. This prestigious award is bestowed upon outstanding and creatively ingenious designs that authenticate experience and resourcefulness. Esteemed for incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology, they exhibit strong technical and creative skills and contribute to quality of life improvements, making the world a better place.

The Tao Rocking Chair is a testament to the power of design in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. It is a shining example of how traditional crafts can be reimagined and integrated into contemporary design, creating pieces that are not only functional but also carry a deeper cultural significance.