The Tachi sideboard stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Japanese craftsmanship and symbolism. Named after the medieval sword once wielded by samurai, Tachi translates the sword’s deep, powerful cuts into a striking visual language. The design pays homage to the sword’s dual role as both a weapon and a status symbol, reflecting power and nobility in its sculptural form. This connection to heritage infuses the piece with meaning, making it more than just a functional object.
Distinctive for its dynamic interplay of intersecting lines, Tachi’s surface captures movement and energy from every angle. The deep cuts, achieved through precise CNC cutting on lacquered wood panels, create a complex yet harmonious pattern. Light and shadow dance across the sideboard, enhancing its visual depth and making it a captivating focal point in any space. The brass-coated metal legs not only provide structural support but also reinforce the geometric integrity of the design, ensuring both stability and aesthetic coherence.
Functionality is seamlessly integrated into Tachi’s artistic vision. The sideboard features a custom sliding door mechanism that allows the doors to align perfectly without overlapping, preserving the clean lines of the exterior. This innovative system required the development of a specialized internal support structure to maintain balance and stability, particularly where the doors meet the body. The interior compartments are thoughtfully optimized for versatile storage, catering to modern lifestyle needs without compromising on elegance.
Measuring 240 cm in width, 78 cm in height, and 48 cm in depth, Tachi offers ample space while maintaining a refined silhouette. Its production, completed in Ankara in 2024, involved meticulous research into both the aesthetic and structural qualities of Japanese swords. The result is a sideboard that merges historical inspiration with contemporary design principles, exemplifying the potential of furniture to elevate everyday living environments.
Recognized with the Bronze A' Furniture Design Award in 2025, Tachi has been celebrated for its creative ingenuity and technical excellence. The design not only showcases Yilmaz Dogan’s mastery of form and function but also contributes to quality of life improvements by blending art, science, and technology. Tachi stands as a powerful example of how tradition can inform innovation, making a meaningful impact on modern interiors.
By uniting the spirit of the samurai with cutting-edge craftsmanship, Tachi invites users to experience a unique blend of history, artistry, and utility in their living spaces.
Project Designers: Yilmaz Dogan
Image Credits: A. Murat ARIK
Erinç ULUSOY
Giray AYDOS
Project Team Members: Yilmaz Dogan
Project Name: Tachi
Project Client: QZENS Furniture