CORNICE by NAO IWAMATSU
Tokyo-based designer NAO IWAMATSU has created a stackable wooden stool that combines Japanese craftsmanship with Western architectural influences, offering a refined solution for compact urban living.
Named CORNICE, the stool features an innovative construction method that transforms slender wood offcuts into a structurally robust and visually striking piece of furniture. The design addresses a gap in the market for stackable seating that maintains an elegant presence in sophisticated environments.
"We are often moved by the intricate, repeating details found in grand architecture. Yet, what truly captivates us is the artisans' sensibility and breath of craftsmanship embedded within them," Iwamatsu explained.
The stool's distinctive form draws parallel inspiration from Western architectural cornices and the continuous beam structures found in Japanese temples and shrines. This dual cultural reference is characteristic of Iwamatsu's design philosophy, which he terms 'Narrative Minimalism' – an approach that seeks to embody material properties and cultural values within functional objects.
Each leg assembly comprises multiple 13mm-thick wooden pieces, joined using domino joints that ensure structural integrity while facilitating flat-pack shipping. While the prototype utilizes teak wood, Iwamatsu suggests that similar aesthetic and structural qualities could be achieved with oak or other wood species.
A defining feature of the stool is its architectural detailing, which creates a compelling visual rhythm through stacked arrangements. When multiple units are placed on top of each other, the layered geometry of the legs produces dynamic sculptural compositions that elevate the design beyond mere functionality. The stackable design proves especially valuable in dense urban environments like Tokyo, where the stool can be stored efficiently while maintaining its refined aesthetic presence.
The project also addresses sustainability concerns by demonstrating how seemingly modest materials can be engineered to create both structural strength and aesthetic impact. This approach not only promotes responsible material usage but also highlights the enduring value of skilled craftsmanship in contemporary design.
Iwamatsu, who holds a master's degree in industrial design from Kyoto, has garnered international recognition for his work, including prestigious German Design Award and iF Design Award. His practice focuses on creating narratively rich yet minimalist designs that bridge material characteristics with company philosophies and visions.
CORNICE will be presented at Salone Satellite 2025, taking place in Milan from April 8th to 13th.
Related Content
Lodes and Diesel Living unveil their latest collaboration - four lighting products: Magic Mushroom, Reglobe, Spring, and U.F.O. These pieces redefine industrial and minimalist aesthetics, showcasing the ingenuity and visual appeal of modern industrial design.
Lodes is launching its first collaboration with Ron Arad, the internationally renowned artist, architect and designer, known for his iconic industrial pieces that have won multiple awards and been exhibited in the world’s most prestigious institutions.
Lodes has renewed its collaboration with Norwegian architecture and design studio, Snøhetta, to expand the Volum collection.