Rong: A Rest Seat Inspired by Chinese Culture

Integrating Art and Functionality

The design concept behind Rong stems from the graceful postures of clouds and fog, as well as the soft curves of mountains and rivers. Wei Wei has seamlessly integrated these natural elements into a practical object, creating a rest seat that not only provides comfort but also pays homage to Chinese traditional culture.

What sets Rong apart from other designs is its connection to the real world. The chair's name, derived from the film, represents the artistic aesthetics of respecting Chinese culture. By using stone and metal steel pipe as the main materials, Rong achieves a high degree of unity between design spirit and shape.

To ensure stability and safety, a mesh metal structure is added at the bottom of the stone seat surface. The stone material is then inserted through a laminated steel frame, providing stability while maintaining the design's aesthetic appeal. The curved steel pipe shape further enhances the chair's stability, making it a durable and safe choice for users.

With dimensions of 2.55m in length, 0.55m in width, and 0.45m in height, Rong offers ample space for relaxation. Its surface texture, crafted from granite, reflects the uniqueness of the product and adds a touch of elegance to any space.

Wei Wei and the design team, including Kang Gege, dedicated extensive research to the development of Rong. They focused on integrating Chinese elements into the product, experimenting with visual software to imitate the movements of mountains and rivers. Through observation and exploration of nature's mysteries, they successfully captured the essence of Chinese culture and incorporated it into the rest seat.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was achieving the desired visual contrast between the two materials used. However, through careful experimentation and attention to detail, Wei Wei managed to combine the golden steel pipe with the texture of the stone, creating a visually striking contrast that highlights the natural and elegant design concept.

Rong not only serves as a functional piece of furniture but also embodies a cultural spirit. Its concise and conceptual design language depicts a beautiful Chinese shanshui painting, evoking a sense of tranquility and harmony. This product showcases the charm of Chinese culture, using simple language and imagery to evoke a multitude of emotions and memories.

In recognition of its well-designed, practical, and innovative nature, Rong was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2019. This prestigious award honors creations that meet professional and industrial requirements, integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics. Rong's fulfillment and positive impact contribute to a better world.