Mastering Molded Plywood: The Kawara Armchair

With its versatile color variations and customizable options, the Kawara Armchair effortlessly adapts to a wide range of spaces.
Drawing inspiration from the advanced manufacturing technologies and creative expertise of one of Japan's most renowned plywood manufacturers, Ronan Bouroullec has harnessed the potential of plywood to create elegant forms reminiscent of flowing textiles.
The Kawara Armchair showcases the remarkable freedom of plywood, shaping it into soft and graceful curves. The design is anchored by four simple cylindrical wooden legs, from which two delicately curved wooden sheets extend to form the backrest and armrests. This innovative approach introduces a fresh design typology, characterized by its seamless interplay of materials.

What sets this chair apart is the intricate connection between its components. Its expression stems entirely from this interplay: four wooden cylinders and four molded plywood elements converging in perfect harmony. As Ronan explains, “It is very formal in a certain way, but it’s not boring—probably because of the detailing at the connections, where the wooden cylinders and plywood elements come together, giving it a very flowing design.”
Creating a chair as elegant and lightweight as the Kawara Armchair is no easy feat. The manufacturing process requires meticulous calculations and the expert management of materials by seasoned artisans. The journey begins with crafting bespoke plywood specifically for the Kawara series. Thin veneers are layered with adhesive, inserted into molds tailored to each design, and shaped under the immense pressure and heat of a massive press.

Although this process may appear straightforward, it is entirely dependent on the skill of the artisans. They adjust adhesive formulas according to weather conditions, carefully layer veneers to achieve uniform lamination, and apply just the right amount of pressure to avoid cracks or distortions. This complex and delicate work exemplifies true craftsmanship.
This mastery of molded plywood technology enables the creation of the Kawara Armchair’s beautifully soft curves—something impossible to achieve with solid wood. It transforms wood into an ideal form for furniture: strong, lightweight, and undeniably beautiful. This unwavering dedication to refining plywood craftsmanship embodies the manufacturer’s commitment to excellence.

Available in a variety of colors and textiles, the Kawara Armchair offers endless possibilities to suit your personal style. Choose the wooden seat for a celebration of simplicity and the natural beauty of curved wood, or opt for the upholstered version for enhanced comfort.