#Japan #Shiga #ITOKI #Fumie Shibata

Introduction

Recently, a significant event took place at Itoki's Shiga factory to unveil their latest product, the workspace chair "SHIGA." This innovative chair has been developed and produced entirely at the Shiga facility, emphasizing the company's commitment to high-quality manufacturing and design. The event featured distinguished product designer Fumie Shibata, who shared insights about the chair's design, functionality, and the development process.

The SHIGA Chair

The "SHIGA" chair represents a harmonious blend of minimalist aesthetics and comfort, making it suitable for extended periods of use. Shibata, known for her collaboration on products like the "vertebra03," has emphasized a design approach that prioritizes elegance and functionality. She has aimed to create a chair that not only performs well but integrates seamlessly into various spaces, reinforcing its role as an essential piece of furniture rather than just a work-related object.

Both ergonomic principles and aesthetic considerations have been central to the development of SHIGA. The design team, leveraging the production expertise of Itoki's Shiga location, worked collaboratively to integrate these elements into a cohesive whole.

Fumie Shibata’s Insight on ‘SHIGA’

Fumie Shibata elaborated on the origins of the chair's name, revealing that it initially served as a project code name. After visiting the Shiga factory and recognizing its production capabilities, she decided to adopt the name as a representation of the project's identity rooted in the local craftsmanship.

She affirmed her confidence in the name during the laborious development stages, reflecting the desire to encapsulate the broader meaning of the region’s rich manufacturing history.

Positive Collaborations

Throughout the presentation, Shibata spoke highly of the development team, commending their proactive approach to solving problems creatively. She stated, “There were no stressful moments working with the Itoki team,” highlighting the effective communication and work culture within the group. Such teamwork facilitated an environment where ideas could thrive without the weight of unnecessary pressure.

Design Philosophy

The design philosophy behind SHIGA is rooted in the principles of simplicity and adaptability. Acknowledging Itoki’s extensive experience in spatial design, Shibata aimed for a chair that would easily suit diverse aesthetic preferences without compromising on functionality.

Creating a simple product often poses significant challenges, particularly regarding craftsmanship; thus, the Shiga factory’s capabilities were paramount in realizing this vision. Shibata underscored the difficulty of achieving simplicity while incorporating advanced technology, a feat made possible through diligent work at the Shiga site.

Innovative Features

In terms of design, efforts were made to create a chair that reduces the feeling of confinement often associated with traditional seating arrangements. The approach taken involved focusing on horizontal lines to broaden visual space rather than vertical confinement. Additionally, the development process expanded from a single height-adjustable model to three variants, showcasing versatility and responsive design following initial discussions with the planning team.

The team's commitment to achieving a chair that is visually appealing from all angles led to meticulous attention towards structural integrity. The chair's design boasts a “360-degree A-side finish,” ensuring that every view is as polished and attractive as the front. Technological elements are somewhat concealed within the design while still supporting greater usability, emphasizing how form and function can coexist elegantly.

The Intersection of Concept, Design, and Execution

The collaborative discussions surrounding SHIGA brought together input from design, planning, and engineering, where challenges like integrating comfortable seating with an appealing design were adequately addressed. Feedback cycles among the team helped clarify the balance of needed mechanisms while maintaining aesthetic appeal, enabling a shared vision of quality and comfort.

Showcasing Development

The event featured displays that detailed the design process behind SHIGA, including early sketches, models, and prototypes. Attendees were given the opportunity to engage with the various stages of development, fostering a greater understanding of the challenges and innovations that shaped the product.

The exhibition showcased tangible aspects of design engineering that most users do not typically observe, confirming the commitment to blending form with function effectively. Visitors could appreciate the thought processes behind engineering choices made to ensure SHIGA meets high standards of design and usability.

Conclusion

Fumie Shibata and the Itoki team’s dynamic collaboration highlights the blend of creativity and technology that defines the SHIGA chair. As the workspace continues to evolve, products like SHIGA emphasize the importance of ergonomics alongside striking design, aiming to enhance the working experience in today's modern environments.