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Sozi Chairs
2024
Intended to encourage exchange in convention halls and coworking spaces, Sozi is a conversation chair that marries traditional techniques with a modern silhouette to bring culture and craftsmanship into spaces of dialogue and innovation. Sozi can be configured to create either spaces for intimate engagement or individual focus. A striped banana weave sweeps upwards to form the chair back, an homage to Rwanda’s undulating topography. Nestled in its curve is a seat of wood and sisal, with patterning inspired by scenes from local homes. In so doing, Sozi celebrates the coming together of the land and its people.
Materials
Banana husk and fiber, steel, sisal fiber, savannah grass, umusave wood
Credits
MASS x Made, production partners
Furniture, Seating, Craft, Natural Materials
Rwanda’s growing MICE industry has led to the introduction of international convention spaces which provide a platform for remembrance and the a showcase of the country's resilience, culture and unity. The name Sozi comes from the Kinyarwandan word for "hill", which can transform into the singular "umusozi" or the plural "imisozi". In a similar vein, Sozi’s asymmetry can either emphasise individual focus in the Mountain configuration, or facilitate interaction in the Valley configuration.
Sozi features an asymmetrical curved back that embraces its seat, slightly angled for comfort. A floating table can be used as a work surface or armrest, while the cushioned wide seat is open and accommodating. Sozi was crafted in partnership with the MASS x Made team and their network of artisans, emphasising the use of local, natural materials and traditional craft.
