Simplicity is often the most difficult thing to execute properly and that is what we like about this Golden Pin Award winner (Product Design Category) from Taiwan’s W2 Wood x Work. The simple bench is an ancient form of furniture that was designed to facilitate gatherings. It is in this type of seating that traditional timber technologies such as mortise-and-tenon joinery (as seen below) have been preserved. In an effort to reconnect with Chinese culture from centuries past, the W2 Chair takes its inspiration from the shapes typical of traditional benches.

Of course there is an element of conservation here too because the chair is made from Taiwan Hinoki, a wood recycled from 80-year-old Taiwanese buildings. To create the contrasting colors on the varnished seat of the bench, the designers combined the Hinoki with wood from the Kassod tree. The legs are joined to the seat using mortise-and-tenon joints structure, which ensures a sturdy, permanent piece of furniture. Actually, W2 Wood x Work has a wide selection of items made with Taiwan Hinoki that are both responsible and full of character. The website, helpfully in English too, has more information and do note again that the company is based in Taiwan.

This story was originally published in Form magazine.