The "Noguchi" Hammock
In order to understand what is effective, what appeals to others and how various forms and materials convey meaning, designers can benefit greatly from precedents, which consist of historical movements, iconic works, or past creations.
This chair is heavily inspired by the famous Noguchi Table by Isamu Noguchi.
"We are a landscape of all we have seen." – Isamu Noguchi
Materials: Poplar Plywood, Fabric, Galvanized Steel
Dimensions: 800mm (H) X 750mm (W) X 900mm (L)
Art or Furniture?
The Noguchi Coffee Table is renowned for its avant-garde fusion of elegance and utility. With its transparent glass top and biomorphic hardwood base, this sculpture reflects Noguchi's approach to natural materials and organic design. Because of its profound appeal and versatility, this classic piece appeals to a wide range of home design styles. The table illustrates a cross-cultural approach that enhances its relevance, drawing inspiration from both Eastern and Western design traditions. It has remained popular for a long time and continues to inspire both designers and buyers as a renowned piece that transcends the boundaries between sculpture and useful furniture.
My Take
The glueless assembly design of the sling chair draws inspiration from traditional Japanese joinery techniques, while the galvanized steel pipes that provide stability reflect Western industrialism. The brown stain chosen for the chair evokes the Shou Sugi Ban technique, a traditional Japanese method for weatherproofing wood, emphasizing the cultural references to Japanese design that influenced my interpretation of the Noguchi Table. To closely mimic the table's style, the chair's facade features only two main abstract shapes. The chair's simplicity, combined with its intricate finish, underscores its timeless appeal.