Willow: A Modern Interpretation of the Traditional Circle Chair

Combining Copper and Wood to Create a Unique Design

The Willow chair stands out with its modern and concise lines, which have been achieved by removing the intricate decorative patterns often found in traditional circle chairs. The designers aimed to explore new design forms by combining copper and wood, resulting in a unique and eye-catching piece of furniture.

One of the most distinctive features of the Willow chair is its chair ring, which boasts a unique supporting structure and smooth lines. Crafted from copper pipe by skilled artisans, the chair ring adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to the overall design.

The Willow chair is made using a combination of copper and wood. Copper is used for the upper part and decorative elements, while wood forms the main structure. The copper is meticulously cut, polished, oxidized, bent, and inlaid, undergoing more than a dozen processes to achieve its final form. The wood components are connected using traditional mortise and tenon joints, ensuring durability and stability.

With dimensions of 800mm in width, 650mm in depth, and 590mm in height, the Willow chair offers a comfortable seating option for various purposes. It is ideal for sitting or meditation, providing moderate rest without encouraging complete relaxation, which may be seen as improper according to Confucian etiquette norms.

The Willow chair project began in January 2018 and was completed in April 2018 in China. It was exhibited at the Shenzhen Cultural Expo in April 2018, showcasing its unique design and craftsmanship to a wider audience.

The design of the Willow chair was driven by a desire to explore new forms of traditional furniture in the contemporary era. By combining different materials and reinterpreting traditional shapes, the designers aimed to meet the aesthetic needs of modern lifestyles while preserving the charm of traditional furniture.

The design process for the Willow chair presented several challenges, particularly in terms of the manufacturing process. The bending of the copper pipe required numerous experiments by skilled craftsmen to achieve the desired results. Additionally, the combination of copper and wood demanded meticulous polishing to ensure a seamless and perfect fusion of the two materials.

The Willow chair has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2019. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

With its modern interpretation of the traditional circle chair, the Willow chair showcases the beauty of combining copper and wood in a sophisticated and elegant design. Its unique features and meticulous craftsmanship make it a standout piece of furniture that adds a touch of contemporary style to any space.