Canuch Inc.'s Mass Series Sumi Limited is a furniture line that draws its inspiration from the Aso experience. This experience is characterized by the coexistence of people and nature in a majestic yet harsh volcanic environment, with life sprouting from the inky black world of Noyaki. The series is limited to 25 units sold annually, a number based on the 25 Oguni cedar saplings granted in the Edo period to grow forests.
The series stands out for its use of a steel frame and generously planed-down cedar. The best part of old cedar trees is used and prepared by skilled woodcraft men, resulting in a clean-cut design with smoothly planed cedar and elegantly prepared steel frame. The furniture pieces are inviting to touch and feel, enhancing the user's sensory experience.
The unique texture of the furniture is created by charring cedar, a traditional method used to make durable furniture. This process requires skills and experience to bring out the defined grains of the cedar just right, producing a unique texture and rare finish to the furniture. The charred color is reminiscent of Noyaki, representing Aso's history and the beauty of a harmonious lifestyle with nature.
The Mass Series Sumi Limited includes a dining chair, lounge chair, coffee table, handle stool, 4-leg stool, and coat hanger. Each piece is meticulously crafted, reflecting the brand's commitment to quality and design excellence. The series was designed and realized in Kumamoto and Tokyo, Japan, between April 2019 and July 2020. It was exhibited at Designart Tokyo in 2020.
Canuch Inc.'s Mass Series Sumi Limited has been recognized with the Golden A' Furniture Design Award in 2023. This award is granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom. They are venerated products and bright ideas that advance art, science, design, and technology, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics.
In conclusion, Canuch Inc.'s Mass Series Sumi Limited is a testament to the brand's commitment to design excellence and environmental sustainability. It is a celebration of the unique Aso experience, showcasing the beauty of nature through its use of charred cedar and steel. The series is a worthy recipient of the Golden A' Furniture Design Award, reflecting its outstanding design and trendsetting qualities.
Project Designers: CANUCH
Image Credits: Main Image #1 Photographer:Kenichi Aikawa
Optional Image #1 Photographer:Kenichi Aikawa
Optional Image #2 Photographer:Kenichi Aikawa
Optional Image #3 Photographer:Kenichi Aikawa
Movie : Haruki Anami
Optional Image #4 Photographer:Kenichi Aikawa
Project Team Members: Strategic Planner:Genki Imamura
Project Manager:Kentaro Kanayama
Art director:Ryosuke Tomita
Public Relation:Masahiro Ryohara
Interior & Furniture design:Yosuke Kinoshita
Interior & Furniture design:Yusuke Noguchi
Digital Creative Director:Hiroki Noma
Creative Developer:Misato Daikuhara
Creative Developer:Kenta Toshikura
Photographer:Haruki Anami
Photographer:Kenichi Aikawa
Project Name: Mass Series Sumi Limited
Project Client: CANUCH