Daejo

Stools for Tomaya Studio

Inspired by Soetsu Yanagi's philosophy, Daejo redefines the relationship with furniture, elevating the wooden stool into a symbol of enduring beauty. Crafted from Hard Maple wood using precision CNC technology and traditional techniques, each Daejo stool embodies durability and fine craftsmanship. The unique grain patterns add individuality, reflecting the wood's journey from forest to workshop. Despite challenges, Daejo transcends functionality to become sculptural art, enriching spaces with timeless elegance.

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Daejo by Tom Man

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Stools by Tom Man

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Tom Man Daejo

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Tom Man Stools

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Tom Man Designer Portrait Photo

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Tomaya StudioBrand Logo

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Unique Properties

Daejo stands as a pinnacle of modern furniture design, meticulously crafted to embody a holistic perspective that transcends the ordinary. Its meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail enhance each piece's inherent beauty, offering captivating visual aesthetics and unparalleled sensory experiences. With a blend of tradition and innovation, Daejo aspires to redefine furniture design, aiming to enhance both spaces and lives.

Tags

Stool, Wood, Wooden Stool, Stool Design, Wood Design, Furniture, Furniture Design

Production Technology

In the production of the Daejo stool, Hard Maple wood, renowned for its durability and fine grains, is utilized through a precision cutting process (CNC) combined with traditional woodworking techniques. The wood's variations lend themselves beautifully to the creation of furniture that is not only strong but also has a naturally inviting texture. Each seat features grain patterns akin to fingerprints, unique to every piece, telling a story of the wood's journey from forest to workshop.

Design Challenge

The creative challenge of the Daejo project was finding the delicate balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern design aesthetics. This required seamlessly blending centuries-old woodworking techniques with advanced CNC technology, demanding meticulous attention to detail and numerous iterations through prototyping. Historical perspectives on furniture design and societal expectations for functionality and aesthetics further complicated the process. External factors such as production constraints, technological limitations, and the quest for sustainable materials posed additional hurdles to overcome. Despite these challenges, the Daejo stools transcend their functional purpose, emerging as sculptural pieces that transform everyday objects into works of art. This commitment to sustainable luxury is evident in the meticulous selection of materials, expert craftsmanship, and thoughtful design. Beyond being mere seating options, the Daejo stools embody a thoughtful intentionality, seamlessly integrating into our lives and spaces while elevating them with their timeless elegance.

Project Duration

The project is part of an ongoing initiative initiated during my Aesthetic studies, commencing in 2020 and continuing beyond the submission deadline in June 2022.

Operation Flow

Daejo stools are meant to be appreciated through their effortless operation and transformative presence. Users can seamlessly interact with the stools, sitting, observing, and moving with ease. Each stool's unique design offers a different seating experience, catering to various preferences and spaces. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and durable materials, including Hard Maple wood, these stools are built to last for generations. Their enduring quality ensures they remain functional and aesthetically pleasing over time, becoming cherished pieces that enhance living spaces for years to come. Through superior craftsmanship and thoughtful design, Daejo stools deliver unparalleled performance, enriching the user experience and leaving a lasting impression on generations to come.

Inspiration

Inspired by philosopher Soetsu Yanagi's book "The Beauty of Everyday Things" (2019), Daejo seeks to redefine our relationship with everyday objects. Yanagi's philosophy, advocating care, longevity, and appreciation for our belongings, resonates deeply with Daejo's ethos. Motivated by this vision, the series elevates the humble wooden stool into an object of enduring beauty and significance. Through meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design, Daejo embodies Yanagi's notion that everyday possessions should evoke feelings of respect and affection. By embracing simplicity and elegance, Daejo invites users to rediscover the beauty inherent in the simplest of objects, fostering a deeper appreciation for the tangible manifestations of our surroundings.

Image Credits

Pavel Zubenko, 2022.

Project Overview

Daejo Stools has been a Bronze winner in the Furniture Design award category in the year 2023 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Bronze A' Design Award is given to outstanding designs that showcase a high degree of creativity and practicality. It recognizes the dedication and skill of designers who produce work that stands out for its thoughtful development and innovative use of materials and technology. These designs are acknowledged for their professional execution and potential to influence industry standards positively. Winning this award highlights the designer's ability to blend form and function effectively, offering solutions that enhance people's lives and wellbeing.

Bronze Recognition

Tom Man was recognized with the coveted Bronze A' Design Award in 2024, a testament to excellence of their work Daejo Stools.

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