build your own cute companion with TORAFU ARCHITECTS' wooden koala kit

following designboom’s exclusive interview and studio tour of TORAFU ARCHITECTS‘ tokyo office at the beginning of december, the design team has shared their latest animal-inspired project. the ‘ISHINOMAKI KOALA KIT’ is a simple set that allows users to build their own koala stand from pieces of solid wood. providing the perfect gift for kids and adults alike, part of the proceeds of the kits will be donated to the foundation for habitat restoration and the care of wild animals affected in australian bushfires.

images by masaki ogawa

following the previous ‘ISHINOMAKI BIRD KIT‘, the cute koala marks a new addition to the animal lineup. users can add their own touch to the design by polishing the western red cedar wood with sandpaper, or painting it with whichever color they like. the angle of the head can also be adjusted to suit different uses.

the koala can be used for a wide range of purposes, such as a stand for a pen or smartphone, or even a small vase when a slender test tube is inserted between the legs. it also makes for a simple and charming decoration in home or office interiors.

project info:

project name: ISHINOMAKI KOALA KIT

design: TORAFU ARCHITECTS

manufacture and sale: ishinomaki kobo

materials: natural wood western red cedar / magnet / screw / woodworking bond / sandpaper

size: w110 x d48 x h99mm

design period: 2020.03-07

production period: 2020.07-09

photography: masaki ogawa

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lynne myers | designboom