karimoku case study couch

Karimoku Case

Image Gallery

Keiji Ashizawa played with structure, arriving at a sofa that embodies sculptural, yet laid-back elements. The low height enhances the size of the space. Simple, yet multi-functional, the armrest can be used as a pillow, making it a daybed.

The A-S01 sofa is one of twelve tailormade furniture pieces that make up the first collection of Karimoku Case Study, the Kinuta Terrace project. The Keiji Ashizawa Design team draws on the natural references of the connected courtyard in an attempt to invite in nature as much as possible – in their design language as well as through their material compositions.

Prices include GST Estimated lead time is 8 - 12 weeks. This may change depending on customisation and supply chain events.

Prices include GST Estimated lead time is 14 - 18 weeks. This may change depending on customisation and supply chain events.

Prices include GST Estimated lead time is 3 - 5 weeks. This may change depending on availability and supply chain events.

Prices include GST Estimated lead time is 12 - 16 weeks. This may change depending on customisation and supply chain events.

We hold a number of Dilana rugs in stock, please enquire on availability. If custom made or out of stock, estimated lead time is 8 - 10 weeks.

Pure Oak Smoked Oak Grain Matte Black Available in a range of premium textile options

Made in Japan Designed by world-renowned architects Quality craftsmanship and sustainable design

Discover the 

The Maker / 

Karimoku Case is a contemporary lifestyle brand, based in Japan and born out of admiration and love for serene beauty, material richness and timeless appeal. Inspired by the Case Study Houses, Karimoku Case draws on the visionary works of the architects for the iconic, modernist program.

The Designer / 

Keiji ashizawa.

Keiji Ashizawa Design is an architecture and product design studio based in Tokyo, Japan. Formed in 2005 by Keiji Ashizawa, the studio is comprised of both architects and designers, all bringing unique skills to the team.

Featured in the Journal

Restaurant äng, the sixth project from karimoku case study.

Karimoku unveiled its sixth Case Study late last year, a collaboration between Norm Architects and Keiji Ashizawa Design for the architecture and interior design of the Michelin starred Restaurant Äng in Sweden. The result is a stunning, immersive experience of organic materials in the signature Japanese / Scandinavian style of the brand.

Rex Coffee Table

Ercol Studio Daybed

Lucian ercolani, l. ercolani by ercol.

Cape 3 Seater Sofa

Charlotte honcke, warm nordic.

Compose Coffee Table

SQ Coffee Table – Oval

Rex kralj studio.

Ercol Chairmakers Rocking Chair

Wingman Lounge Chair

Arne hovmand-olsen.

Reprise Chair with Upholstered Seat

Norm architects.

IO Side Table

Lars b. fjetland.

Before & After: With a Crisp Addition, a Cookie-Cutter Eichler Breaks Out of Its Shell

A Karimoku case study couch and Woud Arc coffee table sit in the living room, which opens to the refreshed backyard.

Karimoku Case Study

Frederik Werner on the launch of Norm Architects’ new furniture collaboration during Copenhagen’s 3 Days Of Design.

The Kinfolk Gallery

As part of 3 Days of Design 2019, the Kinfolk Gallery was transformed into a contemporary apartment setting for the launch of furniture and lifestyle brand Karimoku Case Study. Merging the simple Japanese design aesthetics of furniture makers Karimoku with the work of Copenhagen’s local creative scene, the inaugural collection was produced by the Danish design firm Norm Architects and Tokyo-based designer Keiji Ashizawa. Although the pieces felt readily at home dotted around the Kinfolk Gallery, they were initially designed for a very different setting: two newly renovated apartments in Kinuta, Tokyo.

What inspired the collaboration with Karimoku?

We met Keiji Ashizawa during a workshop in Southern Japan. He introduced us to the Karimoku team and got us involved with the Kinuta apartment project in Tokyo. The brand takes its name from the Case Study program of the mid-20th century, and with it we wish to investigate the potential for approaching furniture design holistically, using only natural materials.

How did you translate all of that into an exhibition?

We created a laid-back, contemporary apartment setting, with a living room, office space, library and dining area. We wanted the exhibition to embody a sense of calm; to be a warm and inviting space composed of materials and aesthetics that would all elevate one another and encourage guests to investigate them. It was very intentional that we displayed the furniture pieces and artworks in a serene environment above Copenhagen’s busiest shopping street—we wanted to draw a parallel to the environment of the Kinuta terrace apartments in the chaotic city of Tokyo, which is the native setting for the pieces.

Did shared design traditions influence your collaboration with Keiji Ashizawa?

Keiji lives in Tokyo and knows the city well. He’s familiar with its culture and traditions. More than anything, however, we share an appreciation of nature in our lives and the things we surround ourselves with. He believes, as do we, that introducing quality natural materials into our homes significantly enhances our quality of life.

Did exhibition visitors interact with the furniture pieces the way you had hoped they would?

We hoped people would find a sanctuary in the space, and I think we succeeded! Some would sit down with a book and enjoy an unhurried moment away from their hectic design week agenda.

What are the most interesting things you learned so far from your visits to Karimoku production facilities in Japan?

It’s truly reassuring to witness a massive manufacturer like Karimoku care so greatly for their work and craft. As a family-run business, they honor their history and uphold a shared goal of creating high quality, sustainable furniture pieces that last.

Karimoku Case Study exhibited at The Kinfolk Gallery in June 2018 during 3 Days of Design.

A handpicked preview

Fashion, 

The Getaway

A lazy weekend at the Farnsworth House.

Design, 

John Pawson

From the king of minimalism: “I find the essential and get the design down to a point where you can’t add or subtract from it.”

Arts & Culture, 

Emily Gernild

The Danish painter breathing new life into an old medium.

You are reading a complimentary story from

Want to enjoy full access? Subscribe Now

Subscribe Discover unlimited access to Kinfolk

Premium Subscription

Digital Subscription

Four print issues of Kinfolk magazine per year, delivered to your door, with twelve-months’ access to the entire Kinfolk.com archive and all web exclusives.

Receive twelve-months of all access to the entire Kinfolk.com archive and all web exclusives.

Already a Subscriber? Login

Your cart is empty

Your Cart (0)

Calculated at Checkout

The Karimoku Case Study 03 Furniture Collection

Minimalist furniture and lighting that blends scandinavian and japanese design..

Launched in 2019 with a collection of tailor-made furniture pieces, Karimoku Case Study has now introduced its third range of bespoke products. The lifestyle brand was developed by leading Japanese furniture manufacturer Karimoku Furniture Inc. in a collaboration with Norm Architects and Keiji Ashizawa Design. Each of the brand’s collections celebrate timeless design, simplicity, traditional craftsmanship, and serene beauty. Custom-made for a specific architectural projects, the products then become a part of the Karimoku Case Study line. Apart from their beautiful design, they also feature natural and sustainable materials; from bamboo and washi paper to eco-friendly glue made from wheat. Originally created for the Archipelago House, the brand’s third range effortlessly combines Scandinavian and Japanese design in elegant products.

The line comprises both furniture and lighting designed by Norm Architects as well as a sofa designed by Keiji Ashizawa. Compact and comfortable, Club Chair N-CC01 features a rounded backrest with an upholstered interior and a wooden exterior. Small overhangs on the armrests and backrest provide great grip and thus an easy way to move the chair. The N – DC01 dining chair fuses Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics in a simple design, while the NDT01 dining table draws inspiration from the branches of a tree with slender and heavy elements kept in perfect balance.

Designed with simple rectangular shapes, the Book Box N-BB01 storage boxes offer a stylish solution to declutter a room. The Karimoku Case Study 03 collection also includes the N- CT01 coffee table that pays homage to the facades of Japanese temples, the N – ST01 side table, and the N – SS01 shelving system. Lighting designs include lamps with washi paper shades and pendant lights that mimic the silhouette of the Archipelago House. Photographs© Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen and Karl Knudsen, Norm Architects.

Featured Products Discover What's New at the Gessato Design Store

Cubiko wall planter, stoneware dog bowls, the gourmand’s lemon, cast iron portable grill, bird cafe modern bird feeder, mono zeug 4pcs set, more for you, the chanoma japanese clay teapot.

An elegant collection that reimagines traditional Japanese clay teapots with a modern twist. Founded in…

The Olivia Chair

A graceful chair that keeps lightness, sturdiness and comfort in an elegant balance. Designed by…

Introducing Sibast Furniture’s Rib Collection

A collection of minimalist outdoor furniture that pays homage to the Golden Age of Danish…

The Duality of Matter Collection by THER

A thoughtful exploration of materiality and of both precise and organic forms in a beautiful…

The Belly Liquor Cabinet

Playful and eye-catching, this liquor cabinet transforms home bars into even more fun spaces. Home…

A Vibrant and Flexible Co-Working Space in London

A bespoke collection of furniture, lighting and shelving designed for a creative office and co-working…

Around the world

Treehouse villas, a nature-centric retreat in bali.

Seven tree house villas in Bali nestled among lush vegetation on a sloping site that…

Ftelia Beach Club

Italian design meets modernist vibes in a tranquil retreat by the sea in Greece. Nestled…

Pa.te.os, A stunning coastal retreat in Portugal

Four concrete houses that invite guests to lose themselves in a spectacular coastal landscape. Located…

Photographers

We work with photographers documenting creative stories around the world. We’re glad that you are interested in helping us convey our passion through photography. Please send us an email with the subject heading " #photographers ", a link to your portfolio, your location and suggestions of creative subjects you would like to document for us in your area.

Contributors

We are always looking for new contributors to help us document excellence. We are recruiting writers with expertise in our main categories: design, architecture, interior design, lifestyle, art and fashion. Send resume and links to previously published works with the subject heading: " #contributors ". Please express your area of interest, include two writing samples and social media profiles.

The internship offers recent grads and matriculated students a chance to gain valuable work experience in an engaging and fast-paced editorial environment. We are looking for Visual Production Interns – the role is focused on photography, design, photo-editing, image curation, and other visual media. Editorial Interns – the role requires classic editorial skills, from writing and basic editing to research and reportage. Interns are required to research, compile and produce stories, contribute with their input on layout, and assist with production.Interested applicants should contact us with the subject heading: " #interns ". Please include: An introduction about yourself and why you’d be a great fit for the job: Resume; Links to any previous work; One sample, 200-word article and/or a 10-photo fully edited and captioned photo essay; Areas of interest and short explanation why.

Karimoku Case

Refine Selection

Archipelago House Pendant N-PL01

Shibuya Cafe Dining Chair A-DC01

Shibuya Cafe Chair A-BS01

Notabene Shoe Store N-S03 Sofa: 2.5 Seater

Notabene Shoe Store Lounge Chair N-S03

Kinuta Coffee Table A-CT01

Norman Foster Stool NF-BS02

Norman Foster Sofa NF-S01

Norman Foster Lounge Chair NF-LC01

Kinuta Stool A-S01

Kinuta Sofa: 3 Seater 3P A-S01

Kinuta Armchair N-DC01

Kinuta Armchair N-DC01: Upholstered

A-DC02 Dining Chair

Kinuta Sidechair N-DC02: Wood

A-LC01 Lounge Chair

A-DC03 Dining Chair

Restaurang Äng N-T01

Restaurang Äng Coffee Table N-CT02

Restaurang Äng N-CC02

Restaurang Äng Table A-DT03

Archipelago House Side Chair N-CC01

Kinuta Lounge Chair N-LC02

Notabene Shoe Store Coffee Table N-ST02

Notabene Shoe Store Side Table N-ST02

Sofa Modules N-S02

Foster Retreat Dining Table NF-DT01

Foster Retreat Stool NF-BS01

Foster Retreat Dining Chair NF-DC01

Kinuta Coffee Table N-ST01

Kinuta Sofa: 3 Seater N-S01

Azabu Residence Dining Table A-DT02

Bench A-B01: Upholstered

Azabu Residence Bench A-B01

Minatomirai Cafe Side Chair N-SC01: Upholstered

Minatomirai Cafe Bar + Counter Stool N-BS01

Minatomirai Cafe Bar + Counter Stool N-BS01: Upholstered

Minatomirai Cafe Chair N-DC03

Minatomirai Cafe Chair N-DC03: Upholstered

Kinuta Sofa: 2.5 Seater A-S01

Kinuta Sofa: 2 Seater A-S01

Kinuta Side Chair N-DC02

Kinuta Armchair N-DC01: Paper Cord

Kinuta Lounge Chair N-LC01

Kinuta Sofa: 3 Seater A-S01

Kinuta Sofa: 2 Seater N-S01

Kinuta Side Chair N-DC02: Upholstered

Kinuta Lounge Chair A-S01

1 2 Next »

• Furniture →
• Lighting →
• Outdoor →
• Tabletop →
• Life Tools →
• Decor →
• ← Furniture
• Seating →
• Table + Desks →
• Shelving + Organizers →
• ← Seating
• Bar + Counter Stools
• Daybeds + Chaise Lounges
• Desk + Dining Chairs
• Lounge + Rocking Chairs
• Ottomans + Footstools
• Stackable Seating
• ← Table + Desks
• Bar + Counter + Café
• Coffee + Side
• Dining + Desk
• Height-Adjustable Desks
• ← Shelving + Organizers
• Dressers + Cabinets
• Sideboards + Credenzas
• Wall Shelving + Cabinetry
• Freestanding Shelving
• Dividers + Screens
• ← Lighting
• Ceiling + Pendant
• Table + Task
• Wireless Device Charging
• ← Outdoor
• Tables →
• Sofas + Loveseats
• ← Tables
• Outdoor Carts
• Garden + Grills
• Play + Splash
• Shelving + Storage
• ← Tabletop
• Dining Extras →
• Serving →
• ← Dining Extras
• Tabletop Candleholders
• Tabletop Lighting
• Placemats + Runners
• Grinders + Shakers
• ← Serving
• Boards + Trivets + Trays
• Serving Containers + Tools
• Carts + Trolleys
• Cutlery + Dinnerware
• Drinkware + Barware
• Coffee + Tea
• ← Life Tools
• Reading + Writing →
• ← Reading + Writing
• Media Holder
• Book Holders
• Audio + Tech
• ← Decor
• Extras →
• Hooks + Hangers →
• Flooring →
• Mirrors →
• ← Extras
• Blankets + Quilts
• Candleholders
• Cushions + Pillows
• Planters + Stands
• ← Hooks + Hangers
• ← Flooring
• Rugs + Runners
• ← Mirrors
• Table + Hand
• Wall Art + Mobiles

• Accessories
• Ishinomaki Laboratory
• Karimoku Case
• Miyazaki Chair Factory
• Nissin Mokkou
• Origin Made
• About Apato
• Care Guides

Your cart is empty

Karimoku Case #template--16131438248130__5b38dd1b-a6f7-45ab-9820-bff056db6baa-title-1{ grid-area:main; color:#ffffff; align-self: center; justify-self: center; } @media (max-width:768px){ #template--16131438248130__5b38dd1b-a6f7-45ab-9820-bff056db6baa-title-1{ text-align: center; } }

Karimoku Case is a contemporary lifestyle brand rooted in Japan, founded on shared values of serene beauty, material richness, and timeless appeal. Collaborating with world-renowned architects, each collection tells a story inspired by its native setting, crafted with a holistic approach to design that considers specific needs and structures.

With a focus on quality craftsmanship, Karimoku upholds Japan's tradition of excellence in wooden furniture, encouraging the use of the best materials for lasting design integrity. Through workshops and a dedication to fostering a shared understanding, Karimoku strives to maintain its reputation as a synonym of fine quality furniture. The brand's philosophy emphasizes creating wholesome, human-centric design that reconnects urban dwellers with nature, inspired by the enduring ways of the natural world. Drawing inspiration from the Case Study Houses, Karimoku Case aims to redefine modern living with visionary designs that stand the test of time.

• Coffee Tables
• Dining Chairs
• Dining Tables
• Lounge Chairs
• Side Tables
• Sofas & Ottomans
• Best selling
• Alphabetically, A-Z
• Alphabetically, Z-A
• Price, low to high
• Price, high to low
• Date, old to new
• Date, new to old
• Products Search Products Accessories Lounge Seating Storage Tables Work
• Support FAQs Care Guides Terms & Conditions
• Contact General Enquiries Sitemap

In the spirit of reconciliation, Apato acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present, and emerging; and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.

Azabu Hills Residence by Karimoku Case is defined by peaceful interiors and Japanese design

Karimoku Case reveals Azabu Hills Residence, the lifestyle brands tenth project, a minimal modern home that is a serene escape from city living

• Sign up to our newsletter Newsletter

Amidst Tokyo’s leafy Minami-Azabu district, contemporary lifestyle brand Karimoku Case presents its tenth project, Azabu Hills Residence (following, most recently, the Bellustar Tokyo and the Hiroo Residence , also in Tokyo). This modern home centres on Japanese design, with bespoke furniture and interior design from long-term Karimoku collaborators Keiji Ashizawa from Keiji Ashizawa Design and Frederik Alexander Werner from Norm Architects.

Calming interiors and craftsmanship by Karimoku Case

Entering the apartment, the elongated floor plan, connected with lattice doors, channels light throughout the home, creating a calm and airy space. This acts as the perfect canvas for a selection of natural finishes and elegant touches, such as linen curtains and plaster walls, light-coloured marble and soft, textural furnishings.

Drawing upon the residence’s architectural openness, Ashizawa and Werner designed new bespoke furniture specifically for this project. The architects introduced tables and chairs crafted from Japanese Zelkova Keyakai wood, used traditionally in Japanese culture for temples and shrines, which gave the designs a warm counterbalance against the cream interior tones.

In an effort to revitalise the Japanese forests and to use natural resources responsibly, Werner says, ’The Azabu Hills Residence has given us the opportunity to not only work on new pieces for the collection, but also to welcome “Keyaki” (Japanese Zelkova) to the family of wood species we can offer. 

‘As a hard wood with a long and rich history within Japanese building and furniture making, Keyaki is special. It resonates well with our brand direction and with its warmth it follows our ambition to create furniture and interiors that enhance human wellbeing. It is also one of the steps we take towards offering a more diverse material palette, in an effort to open our customers’ and collaborators' eyes to the qualities within less-utilised wooden species.’

Having the residents' comfort in mind, Ashizawa wanted to create the space to be a peaceful environment. The co-founder designed a matching sofa, and armchair with a soft canvas texture. Norm Architects crafted an accompanying coffee table and task chair with an open rounded back and fine rope detailing. The curvature of the soft furnishings provides a delicate touch in contrast to the smooth Keyaki wood, collectively creating a serene escape from the city.

With an eye for detail, the interior window frames, and wooden hardware carry the Keyaki wood theme. The organic tonality of furnishings and natural fabrics present a fine-tuned balance of hard and soft materials, making Azabu Hills Residence a light and open space, with carefully curated modern design.

Wallpaper* Newsletter

Receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox

karimoku-case.com

Tianna Williams is the Editorial Executive at Wallpaper*. Before joining the team in 2023, she has been involved covering social media and editorial for BBC Wales, Ford UK, SurfGirl Magazine, and Parisian Vibe, while also completing an MA in Magazine Journalism at Cardiff University. Her work covers writing across varying content pillars for Wallpaper*.

The Peugeot E-3008 is an alluring electric car that combines neat lines, smart tech and an idiosyncratic interior

By Jonathan Bell Published 16 May 24

Casa Nube, a new Cancun retreat by Vieyra Estudio, merges sea, style and sustainability in a private residence defined by a series of pools and terraces

By Léa Teuscher Published 16 May 24

The haute couture-inspired BMW XM Mystique Allure, dedicated to Naomi Campbell and with a soundtrack by composer Hans Zimmer, makes its debut at Cannes International Film Festival 2024

By Simon Mills Published 16 May 24

Denmark meets Japan: Audo Tokyo opens with a serene series of scenescapes that offers a sensory immersion in the brand's aesthetics

By Danielle Demetriou Published 20 February 24

New Conran Shop Tokyo concept store opens in Daikanyama as the retailer's first ‘locally edited’ store, sourcing and curating a unique range of design objects crafted across Asia

By Danielle Demetriou Published 29 May 23

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Advertise with us

Wallpaper* is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

Search Products

Home > Products > Furniture > Seating > Armchairs > Karimoku Case Study Archipelago Club Chair N-CC01

Apato Archipelago Armchairs Club Chair Karimoku Case Study Pure Oak Timber Armchairs Upholstered

• Location * VIC NSW ACT QLD NT SA WA TAS Overseas
• What country? *

Karimoku Case Study Archipelago Club Chair N-CC01

Spaces to inspire, milan 2024 | new & noteworthy designs, design today, stay connected, watch est on film, daily design inspiration, explore our latest moodboards, join the design conversation, exceptional living delivered weekly, architecture & interiors.

• Australian Architecture & Interiors
• Global Architecture & Interiors
• Best of est
• Where Architects Live
• Design Destinations
• Homes For Purchase
• My Favourites

Explore by space

• Bar & Cellars
• Dining Spaces
• Living Spaces
• Outdoor Spaces
• Pools & Pavilions
• Study & Home Offices
• Walk-in Robes

Explore by Product Category

• Accessories
• Finishes - Wall, Floor & Joinery
• Storage & Systems
• Textiles & Rugs
• Windows & Doors

Explore by Room

• Bar & Cellar
• Hallway & Entrance
• Laundry & Mudroom
• Study & Home Office

Explore by Design

• All Retailers
• All Designers

Architects & Designers

• All Architects & Designers
• Australian Architects & Designers
• International Architects & Designers
• Australian Landscape Architects & Designers
• Architect & Designer Interviews
• Australian Premium Builders
• Design Covet
• Nine To Know
• Future Classics
• Brands To Know
• Design Elements
• Privacy Policy
• Photographers

Enquire Now