Zazen: A Multifunctional Chair for Work and Rest

Combining Comfort and Meditation in a Single Design

Zazen is a unique chair designed by Jingbin Xi that seamlessly blends the functionality of a chair with the comfort of a sofa. Inspired by the need for relaxation during daily work and the soothing nature of a library sofa, Zazen offers users a versatile space for both work and meditation.

Zazen is not just a chair; it is a refreshing space designed to provide a moment of respite in public places such as offices and libraries. In today's fast-paced society, where stress and anxiety are common, having a dedicated area to unwind is essential. Zazen fulfills this need by offering a comfortable space for meditation, allowing users to calm their minds and refresh themselves.

One of the key features of Zazen is its ability to transform from a chair to a sofa. By flipping the chair over, users can create a wide sofa where they can sit cross-legged and meditate. This flexibility makes Zazen a versatile piece of furniture that adapts to different needs and activities.

The chair is made from teak, a material known for its durability and resistance to deformation. With its low shrinkage rate and high density, teak provides the perfect balance of stability and wear-resistance, making it an ideal choice for a chair material.

Measuring 96cm in length, 68cm in width, and 65cm in height, Zazen is designed to fit seamlessly into any space. Its compact size and multifunctional nature make it suitable for various environments, from offices to libraries to public lounges.

Zazen is not just a piece of furniture; it is a statement about the importance of mental well-being in our daily lives. By providing a space for meditation and relaxation, Zazen encourages users to prioritize their mental health and find moments of tranquility amidst the chaos of modern life.

With its innovative design and complex internal structure, Zazen presented several challenges during its development. The machining qualification rate was a significant hurdle that the design team had to overcome. However, their dedication and commitment to creating a high-quality product paid off, resulting in a chair that seamlessly combines form and function.

Zazen has garnered recognition in the design community and was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2022. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate excellence in both aesthetics and practicality, meeting the highest standards of professional and industrial requirements.

Zazen, with its unique combination of comfort and meditation, offers a new way to approach work and rest. By integrating the principles of mindfulness and relaxation into a single design, Jingbin Xi has created a chair that not only enhances productivity but also promotes mental well-being. With Zazen, taking a moment to meditate and refresh oneself is as simple as flipping a chair.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Bruce Tao
Image Credits: Creator (Bruce Tao / Designer)
Project Team Members: Design leader: Nanyi Wang Designer: Mengyu Su
Project Name: Zazen
Project Client: Bruce Tao


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