The Sakyu Chair, designed by Studio MucNyc – Michael Geldmacher and Stefanie Kubanek for Japanese brand Look into Nature, has been awarded the iF DESIGN AWARD 2026, one of the world's most respected international design competitions.
© Nyc Muc
The recognition marks another milestone for the brand, following the success of the chaise longue from the same collection, which received the same award in 2024. The Sakyu Chair was selected for its distinctive blend of contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship, reflecting the brand's philosophy of creating furniture that draws inspiration from nature.
Central to the design is the use of igusa, a traditional Japanese material commonly used in the production of tatami mats. The chair features a refined three-dimensional woven seat, combining functional comfort with a distinctive aesthetic quality rooted in Japanese artisanal heritage.
The design pairs this natural material with a minimalist steel frame, creating a balanced contrast between organic texture and industrial precision. The frame is available with or without armrests and stands on slender legs offered in black, grey or brown finishes, coordinated with six igusa seat variations.
© Nyc Muc
Together, these elements create a piece that emphasises both visual lightness and material authenticity, while maintaining a contemporary design language suited to a range of interiors.
The Sakyu Chair has been designed for use in both private and public environments, aligning with Look into Nature's aim to introduce natural materials and calming design aesthetics into everyday spaces. Through its use of igusa and restrained structural design, the chair brings a sense of tranquillity, comfort and connection to nature to interior settings.
Look into Nature, a brand of Japanese furniture company ADAL, focuses on furniture that integrates traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern design approaches. The brand's collections emphasise natural materials, sustainable thinking and understated elegance.
With the Sakyu Chair receiving the iF DESIGN AWARD 2026, Look into Nature continues to strengthen its international design profile while demonstrating how heritage materials and contemporary design can coexist in today's interiors.
More information:
Studio MucNyc
www.nycmuc.com
