#Japan #Tokyo #Red Dot Design #KONOHANA SAKUYA #ROCKSTONE

Introduction

In a remarkable achievement for Japan's furniture design scene, ROCKSTONE's revolutionary chair, KONOHANA SAKUYA ISU, has clinched the highly coveted 'Best of the Best' title at the 2026 Red Dot Design Award. This award positions the KONOHANA SAKUYA ISU among the elite ranks of global design, having also been recognized at the iF Design Award. It not only reflects exceptional artistry but also underscores a commitment to sustainable practices in furniture production.

Red Dot Design Award

The Red Dot Design Award, established in 1955 in Germany, represents one of the three most prestigious design awards in the world. Notably, it is renowned for its authority and recognition, particularly in product design. Each year, around 20,000 designs compete for the accolade, yet less than 1% receive the 'Best of the Best' award. This distinction is not easily attained, making KONOHANA SAKUYA ISU's win a significant highlight in the design community.

The Inspiration Behind KONOHANA SAKUYA ISU

KONOHANA SAKUYA ISU is a product of deep-rooted Japanese cultural values and aesthetics. Inspired by the indigenous 'Yamazakura' tree, this chair embodies a design philosophy that prioritizes sustainability. ROCKSTONE’s mission is to increase the use of domestic broadleaf trees, which supports biodiversity and enhances the beauty of Japan's natural environment. The company is focused on crafting sustainable furniture through the responsible use of local materials, combating CO2 emissions associated with transportation, and encouraging local consumption.

Design Features

The chair's elegant simplicity is deceiving; it incorporates intricate design features that enhance the user's experience. Its three-dimensional curved backrest gently conforms to the body, promoting a comfortable sitting posture that naturally aligns the spine. This careful ergonomic design illustrates the thoughtful engineering that goes into each piece, ensuring that comfort and functionality coexist harmoniously. Every element of KONOHANA SAKUYA ISU is crafted with an emphasis on ecological considerations, featuring materials that can return to the earth at the end of their lifecycle. Natural materials such as flaxseed oil, natural rubber foam, and traditional weaving techniques are used to create not only a comfortable chair but also one that tells a story of sustainability and craftsmanship.

The Name and Legacy

The name KONOHANA SAKUYA ISU is derived from a mythical Japanese princess known for her beauty—the 'Kono-hana-sakuya-hime.' This connection embodies the spirit of the ancient Japanese beauty, tying the current design narrative to a rich heritage. The result is a chair that does not merely serve a functional purpose but also acts as a medium for expressing aesthetic values ingrained in Japanese culture. By utilizing locally sourced materials, the KONOHANA SAKUYA ISU reflects a commitment to preserving Japanese tradition while innovating for the future.

About the Designer

The mind behind KONOHANA SAKUYA ISU is Akio Iwakura, a distinguished interior designer who imbues furniture with Japanese aesthetic principles. As the CEO of the Iwakura Eiji Design Institute and an executive director at ROCKSTONE, Iwakura's designs have earned accolades including the iF Design Award and the Good Design Award. His philosophy revolves around the art of subtraction, creating refined designs that provide a satisfying sense of tranquility.

About ROCKSTONE

Founded in 1981 by Eiji Iwakura, ROCKSTONE is a Japanese designer furniture brand that emphasizes the importance of Japanese aesthetics in crafting beautiful living spaces. The brand has been actively pursuing sustainable furniture production using domestic broadleaf trees. By incorporating time-honored craftsmanship with locally sourced materials, ROCKSTONE aspires to create harmonious environments for both people and the planet.

For more information, visit their official website here and follow their journey on Instagram here.