2023 BEST
FURNITURE DESIGN
Name: TONKIN
Location: Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Company: Khoi Tran Nguyen Bao
Designer: Tran Nguyen Bao Khoi
Manufacturer: The manufacturers with the right capabilities
Stakeholder/Owner: Tran Nguyen Bao Khoi
In the bustling world of interior design, product designer Khoi Nguyen Bao Tran emerges with his latest masterpiece, the "Tonkin" furniture collection. A celebration of rustic beauty and cultural identity, Tonkin showcases a series of exquisitely designed coffee tables and poufs inspired by the idyllic countryside of Northern Vietnam.
Tonkin is more than just a furniture collection; it is a journey through time and memory, capturing the essence of Northern Vietnam's golden straw dunes, woven screens with sunlight peeking through, and the vivacity of traditional clothing. Each piece of furniture serves as a silent observer of life, telling stories that go beyond their usual functional purpose.
At the heart of Tonkin's designs lies Khoi's vision of promoting cultural understanding and respect. By incorporating unique features from local culture, the collection bridges the gap between different societies and encourages a more united world.
One of the distinguishing aspects of the Tonkin collection is its departure from the mass-produced, generic forms commonly found in the market. Instead, Khoi sought inspiration from local craft villages, infusing each piece with authentic materials and manufacturing methods. This not only adds a touch of uniqueness to the collection but also supports these traditional artisans and helps preserve their heritage.
The furniture pieces within the Tonkin collection boast soft curves that exude relaxation, providing an essential escape from the fast-paced modern lifestyle. Delicate leather, fabric, and wood surfaces, along with shiny metal details, impart an air of elegance and personality to each design. The seamless combination of different materials showcases Khoi's ingenuity and dedication to environmental sustainability, using eco-friendly and human-safe production materials.
Khoi's ability to create designs that are simple yet profound is evident in the high applicability of the Tonkin collection. Each individual piece can be effortlessly combined with existing designs in the market, encouraging users to explore their creativity and reimagine living spaces in versatile ways.
The realization of the Tonkin project was made possible through a perfect harmony of modern machining methods and the skilled craftsmanship of artisans. Metal plates are meticulously shaped into smooth curves, mirroring the organic beauty of nature. Surface treatments are crafted to resemble the intricate hand-woven patterns, adding a touch of authenticity to each piece. The tabletops, a visual highlight, are composed of finely paired veneer pieces arranged to form exquisite decorative motifs.
With Tonkin, Khoi's mission to create positive impacts in both work and life is beautifully realized. Humor, simplicity, and cultural empathy converge to make Tonkin more than just a furniture collection; it is an invitation to cherish the past while embracing the possibilities of the future.
Take a virtual journey into the enchanting world of Tonkin: