Giorgetti's Kumiki chairs by HBA blend Japanese woodworking with Italian craftsmanship for Milan Design Week 2026
Giorgetti, an Italian furniture maker, has launched the Kumiki chair and armchair, designed by global studio HBA (Hirsch Bedner Associates). Named after a Japanese woodworking technique that interlocks wood without nails, screws, or glue, the pieces feature exposed walnut frames with visible joints, highlighting craftsmanship. Lead product designer Kevin Shek notes the chairs celebrate an honest construction approach, where each purposeful connection becomes part of the design narrative. Co-CEO Chris Godfrey emphasizes the philosophical dialogue between Italian and Japanese craftsmanship, focusing on precision and material respect. The structure recalls a Japanese Torii gate, with soft curves and interplay of narrowing sections. Available in natural, gray, and dark finishes, the chair includes a recessed handle for easy movement, while the armchair offers a recline and thick cushions in a tapered shape. These designs follow HBA's earlier Japanese-inspired concepts for Giorgetti, such as the Hikari bar cabinet and Kiranami screen. The collection will be displayed at Milan Design Week 2026 in the Giorgetti Spiga – The Place space, alongside other collaborations like the Giorgetti Maserati Edition Collection.
Key facts
- Giorgetti introduced the Kumiki chair and armchair designed by HBA
- The chairs use a Japanese woodworking technique interlocking wood without fasteners
- Frames are made of Canaletto walnut in natural, gray, and dark finishes
- Kevin Shek is the lead product designer at HBA Product
- Chris Godfrey is co-CEO of HBA
- The design recalls a Japanese Torii gate with soft curves
- The collection will be shown at Milan Design Week 2026
- HBA's previous Giorgetti designs include Hikari and Kiranami
Entities
Artists
- Kevin Shek
- Chris Godfrey
- Léa Teuscher
Institutions
- Giorgetti
- HBA (Hirsch Bedner Associates)
- Wallpaper*
- Giorgetti Spiga – The Place
Locations
- Milan
- Italy
- Japan