Doshi Levien Bring Samurai Armour to the Armchair
Published
Doshi Levien’s new Do-Maru armchair, designed for B&B Italia, draws on the studio’s distinct cultural influences and continues the unique design narrative the pair first brought to B&B in 2014.
B&B Italia joins Kvadrat, Camper, Swarovski and Nanimarquina on the growing list of brands that designers Nipa Doshi and Jonathan Levien have collaborated with since the launch of Doshi Levien 15 years ago.
Since launching in 2001, a varied spectrum of cultural influence has always served as a driving force in the design and innovation of Doshi Levien’s range. The output of the studio has always hinted at the founders’ fascination for visual culture, traditional craftsmanship, and industrial innovation and materiality – and the Do-Maru armchair for B&B Italia continues this fascination.
The Do-Maru follows the Almora chair – which was the designers’ first piece for the Italian manufacturer. The Almora served as the starting point for this smaller sister design, which was properly launched at the group’s 50th anniversary celebrations during the 2016 Milan Design Week.
The Do-Maru is made of two curved leather plates, designed to cradle and support the sitter, and was inspired by the traditions of handmade leather Samurai armour, dating back to 4th century Japan. The chair is matched with the Maru series of round tables, and the Tabour poufs; an assortment of lozenge-shaped leather cushions to mix and match with the chair itself.
The Do-Maru chair, and accompanying table and cushions, continue the design journey off Nipa Doshi and Jonathan Levien, who continue to draw inspiration from varied cultural practices and influences. This collaboration with B&B Italia continues the brand’s collaborations with some of the world’s top manufacturers and design brands – highlighting the importance of craftsmanship and the beauty of things made by hand.
The Doshi Levien collection for B&B Italia is available in Australia through Space Furniture Australia.
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