"Kumiko" is a traditional Japanese technique that involves assembling wood into geometric patterns without using nails. The intricate patterns are created by crafting grooves and joints into thinly sliced pieces of wood, which are then precisely fitted together. The furniture series named "Forêt" was born from the desire to explore new forms that blend this Kumiko technique with modern design sensibilities. Developed in collaboration with Abe Kogyo Co., Ltd., a company dedicated to the manufacturing and sale of high-quality wooden fittings, this series aims to deliver authenticity to the world.
Born in Tokyo in 1977. Completed the Department of Architecture, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, and entered Nikken Sekkei in the same year. Later moved to design studio nendo, and worked on projects around the world as a spatial design chief director for ten years. Oniki Design Studio (ODS) was established in 2015. He is active in many fields, focusing on architecture, interior, exhibition space and product design.
AXIS Gallery opened in 1981, together with the opening of AXIS Design Center, as a place for disseminating diverse designs.
Since then, it has continued to engage in a variety of pioneering activities as one of Japan's few design galleries. Through exhibitions unique to AXIS under innovative themes, it widely introduces outstanding designs and philosophies to society.