From the collaboration between Modonutti and Oneworks, Kyoto is born, a modular seating system that explores new possibilities for hospitality and contemporary living spaces. We delved into the project through a conversation with the design team, led by Andrea Sanguineti, to discover the vision, details, and challenges behind the collection's design.
Q: Where did the ideaof this modular system originate?
AS: The starting point was the dialogue between two strong identities. On one side, the contemporary vision of One works; on the other, Modonutti’s manufacturing heritage. We aimed to reinterpret the brand’s existing language—rich in refined vintage references and attention to detail—into a more flexible system suited to contemporary environments.
Q: The project seems to be built on contrasts. How important was this aspect?
AS: It was fundamental. We worked on balancing opposites: softness and rigor, comfort and essentiality. The seating is generous and welcoming, while the wooden structure introduces a more architectural and precise dimension. This contrast defines the project’s character while maintaining harmony.
Q: Wood plays a very visible role in the design.
AS: Absolutely. We didn’t want it to remain a hidden technical element. The wooden structure becomes part of the design language: joints, profiles, and geometric details are meant to be seen. This is where Modonutti’s craftsmanship truly emerges.
Q: How did you approach comfort?
AS: Comfort was designed with precision. The seats are deep, and the backrests are sculpted to naturally support the body. It’s not just about softness—it’s about ergonomics and proportion.
Q: Modularity is a key feature. What kind of flexibility does the system offer?
AS: It’s an extremely flexible system. It can adapt to a wide range of contexts—from residential to retail, hospitality, and even transportation environments. The goal was to create something scalable, capable of evolving without losing its identity.
Q: The side tables feel like an integral part of the system.
AS: They are. Rather than being standalone accessories, they extend the system’s language. Their forms, materials, and proportions create a continuous dialogue with the seating, expanding modularity to the surfaces as well.
Q: How would you define this collection in one sentence?
AS: A system that merges industrial sophistication with artisanal warmth—designed to adapt while maintaining a strong and distinctive identity.
