Shiki

Overview

Shiki is a monobloc and modular sofa range by Damian Williamson, model 1247, dated 2019 on Zanotta's page and data sheet. Zanotta describes it as inspired by the spare simplicity of the traditional Japanese futon, with a thick padded seat on an upholstered wood base.

Construction

• Base and frame: wood; the base carries the same fabric or leather as the sofa
• Suspension: elastic strips
• Seat and backrest: graduated polyurethane with heat-bound polyester fibre
• Back cushion: new goose feathers only
• Roll cushion: polyurethane with heat-bound polyester fibre
• Cover: removable fabric or leather, with a quilted seat cushion

Specifications

• Sofa 1247/302DX: 292 x 112 x 87 cm (axes not labelled on the drawing; 41 also printed beside the elevation)
• Sofa 1247/301: 274 x 87 cm
• Year of design: 2019

The futon as a starting point

Zanotta says Shiki takes its cue from the spare simplicity of the traditional Japanese futon, a thick padded mattress resting upon an upholstered wood base. A quilted motif marks out the seat cushion, with hand-made toggles in shades of the upholstery.

Contrasting heights and volumes

The page describes a dynamic alternation of thicknesses and heights that mimics an urban skyline. Damian Williamson is quoted on arranging each element to evoke harmony while emphasising the contrasts, so that they communicate a visual tension.