This side table integrates organic aesthetics with a minimalist form, establishing a captivating interplay between its inherent solidity and graceful lightness. A 180mm steel rod is sliced horizontally, and a slender pipe is threaded through and skillfully welded to form the base. The tabletop is crafted through an unusual technique where two steel plates are layered and secured with a ring of hard maple. This technique not only adeptly absorbs distortions during welding but also maintains the surface’s exquisite beauty. Notice the delicate balance achieved by the soft wood grain of hard maple and the serene effect of white bronze plating.
- Size
W.550 × D.370 × H.500
- Material
TOP: WB PLATED STEEL & MAPLE
BASE: WB PLATED STEEL
Taichiro Nakai, a symbol of industrial design in post-war Japan, remains a somewhat enigmatic figure, not readily found in historical records despite international recognition. However, surviving accounts of his endeavors in 1950s Italy reveal a designer who skillfully employed a variety of materials, including metal, glass, brass, and wood. Nakai’s distinctive works featured zig-zag metal frames and warm wood tones in wall cabinets, embodying a unique aesthetic.
A highlight in Nakai’s career was his participation in the “Selettiva del Mobile” competition in Cantù, Italy. His living room design, showcased in the 1955 exhibition, received a special award and widespread attention for the fusion of modern design sensibilities with Italian emotionality and Japanese purity.
Nakai’s life, bridging Japanese and Italian cultures, paved the way for new design horizons, holding a significant position in the contemporary design world. Now, inspired by Taichiro Nakai’s somewhat forgotten influence, EDITORA introduces a wall-mounted shelf that reflects our profound respect. Using hardwood maple rods and thin steel sheeting, arranged in a folding screen pattern, precise assembly of wood and metal maximizes the inherent characteristics of each material.
While inheriting Nakai’s spirit, this shelf allows for customization of the number of units to create a versatile space tailored to users’ needs. EDITORA’s shelf can be seen as a product where Taichiro Nakai’s legacy converges with technological advancements.