Chong Daybed: Tradition Meets Modern Vietnamese Design

A contemporary daybed inspired by rural Vietnamese culture

Chong Daybed draws its inspiration from the bamboo hammock, a familiar sight in Vietnamese rural villages. Sema Design Studio sought to create a piece that not only serves as versatile furniture but also embodies the warmth and communal spirit of Vietnamese folk culture. The result is a daybed that bridges the past and present, offering a modern interpretation while retaining the essence of traditional Vietnamese life.

Crafted from natural oak wood and microfiber leather, Chong Daybed stands out for its durability and comfort. The oak wood provides a robust structure and a natural aesthetic, while the microfiber leather ensures softness, ease of maintenance, and a contemporary look. The design features round wooden slats reminiscent of traditional bamboo joinery, each serving both as a load-bearing element and a decorative accent, creating a harmonious and balanced appearance.

Production of the Chong Daybed utilizes mortise and tenon joints and screws, minimizing adhesives to promote environmental sustainability. The hand-woven microfiber leather surface, crafted by skilled artisans, adds elegance and resilience. The modular, disassemblable structure allows for easy transportation, assembly, and maintenance, with individual components replaceable to extend the product’s lifespan and adaptability.

Measuring 2100 mm by 850 mm by 500 mm, the Chong Daybed is designed for flexibility in modern homes. Its modular construction consists of 20 independent parts, making it easy to assemble and maintain. A horizontal bar at one end adds practical value, allowing users to hang towels, books, or other items, enhancing its functionality in both traditional and contemporary interiors.

The design journey began with in-depth research into the traditional bamboo chong, followed by experiments with sustainable materials and modern assembly techniques. Sema Design Studio overcame challenges such as structural instability and frame durability by testing seven prototypes, ultimately achieving a balance between traditional aesthetics and modern requirements. The Chong Daybed was launched at the end of 2023 after three years of development and was showcased at the Heritage Journey exhibition in the VIET KIA Showroom in September 2024.

Chong Daybed has been recognized for its innovative approach, winning the Bronze A' Furniture Design Award in 2025. This accolade celebrates its creative ingenuity, technical excellence, and contribution to enhancing quality of life through design that honors heritage while embracing contemporary needs.

Chong Daybed stands as a testament to the enduring value of cultural heritage, skillfully reinterpreted for modern living. Its thoughtful design, sustainable materials, and versatile functionality make it a meaningful addition to any space, inviting users to experience the comfort and connection of Vietnamese tradition in a contemporary form.