Mua Lau: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

Ching Cheng Chang and Xu Da Zzan's Award-Winning Lounge Chair

The Mua Lau lounge chair is a perfect blend of form and function. Named after a traditional Taiwanese snack that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, the chair is designed to provide a similar multi-layered experience. The exterior is crisp and firm, while the interior is soft and comfortable, creating a unique sitting experience that mirrors the snack's texture.

The design of Mua Lau is a challenge to artisans to innovate within their craft. By combining traditional bamboo craftsmanship with modern industry, the designers have managed to infuse a modern oriental style with the warmth of handcrafted artistry. The result is a piece of furniture that not only serves its function but also tells a story of tradition and innovation.

The Mua Lau chair is made using traditional bamboo weaving techniques. The seat is woven from 12 long bamboo strips, and the double-tube structure inside the seat cushion simulates the effect of double-layer springs, providing a comfortable sitting experience. The legs are made of metal elbows that are bent to the desired shape, cut to size, and manually welded by a master craftsman. The surface is treated with a thickening agent and powder baking paint for added durability.

The design process was not without its challenges. The traditional bamboo weaving technique was not strong enough to bear the weight of a human body. This led the designers to conduct various tests on the material's thickness, length, and other properties. After several iterations, they discovered the optimal size and thickness of the material, allowing them to achieve the unique sitting experience they envisioned.

The Mua Lau chair is a testament to the power of design to connect us with our environment. Sitting in the chair is akin to being in a bamboo forest, with the breeze gently blowing over your body, allowing your mind to integrate with nature and find a moment of tranquility in our noisy world. This connection with nature is not just metaphorical. The use of bamboo, a sustainable material that matures in 3 to 5 years, is a conscious choice by the designers to contribute to the preservation of our environment.

The Mua Lau chair was awarded Silver in the A' Furniture Design Award in 2023. This prestigious award is a testament to the remarkable design, outstanding expertise, and innovation that the chair represents. It is a shining example of how design can be a powerful tool for sustainability, innovation, and connection with our environment.