Pohihi: A Modern Entry Console with Woven Accents

Integrating Arab and Hawaiian Cultures in Furniture Design

The Pohihi entry console, designed by JOHI Furniture & Design, is a unique piece that seamlessly blends the cultural practices of Arab and Hawaiian weaving with modern design aesthetics. This entry console is not only a functional storage solution but also a work of art that brings warmth and character to any home.

At the heart of the Pohihi design is the use of monkeypod drawer fronts and handwoven laced Danish cord. The monkeypod wood, known for its beautiful grain and warm tones, adds a touch of natural elegance to the piece. The handwoven laced Danish cord, inspired by the weaving traditions of Arab and Hawaiian cultures, creates a visually striking and unique cabinet door.

Functionality is a key aspect of the Pohihi entry console. The drawers, made from solid beech, slide effortlessly on wooden tracks, providing ample storage space for everyday essentials. The cabinet door, secured with magnetic fittings, opens to reveal a spacious interior with a shelf, offering additional storage options. A low shelf mirroring the woven door adds a decorative touch while providing a practical space for displaying favorite items.

The Pohihi entry console is designed to withstand Hawaii's fluctuating climate. The frame is made from dimensionally stable hardwood plywood, ensuring durability and resistance to the changing weather conditions. Traditional wood joinery techniques are employed to accommodate the natural movement of the wood.

By weaving together the cultural practices of Arab and Hawaiian weaving, JOHI Furniture & Design has created a piece that celebrates the beauty of both traditions while offering a contemporary and functional design. The Pohihi entry console is a testament to the power of design to bridge cultures and create something truly unique.

Dimensions: W 394mm x L 1156mm x H 1067mm

Keywords: furniture, home, joinery, weaving, residential, interior, storage, modern, living

Design Team: Holly Badr-El-Din

Location: Haliimaile, Maui, Hawaii, USA

Year: 2019

Research: The design of the Pohihi entry console was inspired by the weaving traditions of Arab and Hawaiian cultures. In Arab culture, Sadu is the tradition of geometric embroidery, historically carried out by the women of Bedouin communities. Similarly, Hawaiian culture has a rich history of creating strong and durable cordage from natural resources. The choice of weaving with laced Danish cord, a paper-based product known for its strength, was a deliberate decision to honor these traditions.

Challenges: One of the main challenges faced in designing the Pohihi entry console was creating a piece that represented a common ground between Arab and Hawaiian cultures while allowing room for individual interpretation. The goal was to design a contemporary piece that celebrated the cultural similarities and felt authentic to both traditions.

Design Notes: The Pohihi entry console combines modern warmth with woven accents. Its clean aesthetic and use of natural materials make it a versatile piece that can complement a variety of interior styles. The monkeypod drawer fronts and handwoven laced Danish cord add a touch of artistry and craftsmanship to the design.

Image Credits: Photographer Raja Badr-El-Din, Pohihi Entry Console, 2019

Intellectual Property Notice: Copyrights belong to JOHI LLC, 2019

Awards and Accolades: The Pohihi entry console was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2020. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Pohihi entry console stood out for its integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and contribution to a better world.