tomas kral references japanese architecture in furniture collection for křehký

tomas kral references japanese architecture in furniture collection for křehký
image by nicolas genta

slovakian designer tomas kral has unveiled ‘torii’, a furniture collection influenced by the traditional shapes and forms of japanese architecture. presented at designblok 15, prague’s annual design and fashion week, the wooden table, bench, and stool have been produced by czech brand křehký. ‘the collection is inspired by fundamental architectural structures made from wood and stone — dolmens, menhirs and torii shrine gates — which are symbols of relaxation in japanese mythology,’ explains kral.

the collection is influenced by the traditional forms of japanese architecture
image by nicolas genta

focusing on the shared time spent gathered around a communal table, the pieces espouse a simple, yet distinctive philosophy — formed of both round and rectangular timber components. ‘torii is a collection for those moments we spend dining with family or relaxing with friends. a table with a place for everyone,’ kral continues. ‘combining two standard solid profiles — cylindrical and rectangular — both the design and feel of the structure endow these solid-wood objects with sovereign, almost figural features’.

the wooden table, bench, and stool have been produced by czech brand křehký
image by nicolas genta

offering a degree of adaptability, the simple nature of the product means that standards parts can be cut to create a range of seats and tables of different heights and lengths. meanwhile, the relatively straightforward design seeks to establish a connection with the natural world. ‘even though it is simple, it summons up a permanent link with the forest from where these pieces come,’ commented křehký. ‘we were immediately taken with the collection’s blend of structure, simplicity, wit, austerity, and also with the associations it evokes.’

the pieces espouse a simple, yet distinctive design philosophy
image by nicolas genta

also at designblok, tomas kral presented ‘šuplíky’ — a table that takes its name from the czech word for ‘drawers’. serving as a practical work desk, the piece features colorful integrated drawers that remain attached to the underside of the table’s surface.

the stool is formed of both round and rectangular components
image by nicolas genta

the relatively straightforward design seeks to establish a connection with the natural world
image by nicolas genta

stool: 42 x 42 x 32 cm
image by nicolas genta

bench: 100 x 42 x 32 cm
image by nicolas genta

tomas kral also presented ‘šuplíky’ — a table that takes its name from the czech word for ‘drawers’
image © designboom

serving as a practical work desk, the piece features colorful integrated drawers
image © designboom

the collection presented at designblok 15 — prague’s annual design and fashion week