Musubi
Stool for Chinen Mizuki
This stool was inspired by the word Musubi. Musubi is an ancient Japanese Shinto concept, and it is the idea that things and life are formed by connecting various things. The shape of this stool is based on the motif of a Mizuhiki bow knot. When viewed from the front, the design is linear, but when viewed from an angle, the seat appears to have a gentle curve. When not in use, it can be folded up for compact storage. It can be easily assembled by simply inserting the parts without using nails or screws.
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Musubi by Chinen Mizuki
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Stool by Chinen Mizuki
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Chinen Mizuki Musubi
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Chinen Mizuki Stool
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Chinen MizukiBrand Logo
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Unique Properties
The shape of this stool is based on the motif of a bow-knotted mizuhiki. Mizuhiki is a decorative cord used in Japanese culture to wrap gifts for celebrations. Among them, the bow-knotted mizuhiki is a way of tying that is used for joyful celebrations no matter how many times it is used. Additionally, when viewed from the front, the stool appears to have a linear design, but from an angle, the seat reveals a gentle curve.
Tags
Design, Chair, Furniture, Furniture Design
Production Technology
A technique called paper hinge is used to join the boards together. Paper hinge is a technique used in traditional Japanese folding screens. Also, this stool is made of cedar wood. Cedar is soft, lightweight, and strong. Moreover, it is a material that does not easily deteriorate even in humid places, making it suitable for the hot and humid climate of Japan.
Design Challenge
I had a hard time figuring out how to make it strong with just wood and paper, and how to prevent it from breaking. We have reviewed the design many times in order to achieve both durability as a stool and the convenience of disassembling it.
Project Duration
The project started in January 2025 in Okinawa.
Operation Flow
This stool is divided into two parts and can be folded to make it compact when not in use. It can be easily assembled by simply inserting the parts without using nails or screws.
Research
We researched how to incorporate traditional Japanese techniques and materials into the design.
Inspiration
This stool was inspired by the word Musubi. Musubi is one of the traditional Japanese Shinto concepts, and it is the idea that things and life are formed by connecting various things. It was created with the hope that the person who uses this stool will be connected to good things.
Project Overview
Musubi Stool has been a Silver winner in the Furniture Design award category in the year 2024 organized by the prestigious A' Design Award & Competition. The Silver A' Design Award celebrates top-tier designs that embody excellence and innovation. This award acknowledges creations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional, reflecting the designer's deep understanding and skill. Silver A' Design Award recipients are recognized for their contribution to raising industry standards and advancing the practice of design. Their work often incorporates original innovations and elicits a strong emotional response, making a notable impact on the improvement of everyday life.
Image Credits
For design images and photos please credit Chinen Mizuki.
Silver Recognition
Chinen Mizuki was recognized with the coveted Silver A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to excellence of their work Musubi Stool.
Chinen Mizuki Newsroom
Find inspiration and award-winning creativity within the Chinen Mizuki Newsroom.
