ROW: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Exploring Kazunaga Sakashita's Award-Winning Tatami Bench Design

Kazunaga Sakashita, the mastermind behind ROW, was inspired by the panoramic view of the ruins of a regional government building in Japan, known as TOFURO. The bench was conceived as a symbol of connection, bridging Japan to the world by combining a traditional Japanese material with a universally recognized one. The result is a piece of furniture that is both unique and universal, embodying a modern and minimal character that can adapt to any space.

The unique properties of ROW lie in its fusion of materials. Tatami, a type of rush grass used in Japanese daily life for centuries, is seldom combined with aluminum in furniture design. However, Sakashita's innovative approach has resulted in a bench that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. The bench features arms at both ends, making it easy to carry, and the use of tatami offers a softer and warmer seating experience than wood or metal.

The realization of this design was not without its challenges. Sakashita visited a local tatami manufacturer to understand the material's durability and variability in detail. The biggest hurdle was fitting the tatami into the aluminum frame, a task made difficult by the natural variability of rush grass. However, by reversing the process order and designing the frame to fit the tatami, Sakashita was able to overcome this challenge and achieve a high level of precision.

The ROW bench was first exhibited in April 2006 at the DESIGNING exhibition in Japan, almost a year after the project's inception. It has since received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Silver A' Furniture Design Award in 2017. This award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, and the ROW bench certainly fits the bill.

In conclusion, Kazunaga Sakashita's ROW bench is a shining example of how traditional materials can be reimagined in a modern context. By blending the warmth and comfort of tatami with the sleekness and durability of aluminum, Sakashita has created a piece of furniture that is not only functional and versatile but also a work of art in its own right.