The Kobe chair by WEWOOD, designed by Daniel Sousa in 2020, originates from the search for a simple yet perfectly interconnected form in which the structure, seat and backrest are perceived as parts of a single object.

Made of solid wood, Kobe combines fluid lines, balanced proportions and refined woodworking details with upholstered elements designed to provide comfort even during extended use.

The result is an elegant and versatile chair suitable for dining areas, home offices and hospitality environments.

An Object Conceived as a Whole

One of the central aspects of the design is the continuity between the different elements of the structure.

The armrests flow visually into the legs, while the seat and backrest are naturally integrated into the frame.

This fluidity allows Kobe to be perceived as a homogeneous and coherent form, free from unnecessary visual interruptions.

The construction therefore follows a logic in which every detail contributes to the balance of the whole.

Japanese Inspiration and the Philosophy of “Bi”

Kobe takes inspiration from Japanese aesthetics and the concept of Bi, according to which beauty arises from harmony and unity between all the elements of an object.

This idea is expressed through the precision of the proportions, the continuity of the surfaces and the balanced relationship between the wooden structure and the upholstered components.

The simplicity of the form therefore does not imply an absence of detail, but rather particular attention to the coherence of every element.

A Reference to the City of Kobe

The name of the chair refers to the Japanese city of Kobe, known for its elegant and refined design sensibility.

The city’s symbol, composed of two stylized fans forming a single figure, is subtly evoked in the silhouette of the chair.

The reference is not literal, but contributes to the narrative dimension of the design, linking Kobe to the concepts of grace, harmony and hospitality.

Oak or Walnut

The structure is made entirely of solid wood and is available in oak or walnut.

The two wood species allow the design to be interpreted with different characters:

• oak gives the chair a lighter and more natural presence;
• walnut introduces deeper and more sophisticated tones.

The craftsmanship of the joints highlights traditional woodworking techniques, while the gently shaped surfaces contribute to the feeling of comfort and continuity.

Fabric or Leather Upholstery

The upholstered elements can be customized with premium fabrics or leather, allowing Kobe to adapt to different interiors and design projects.

The upholstery is conceived to complement the structure without overpowering its character, keeping the wood as the main protagonist of the composition.

The combination of natural material and upholstery creates a balance between warmth, comfort and formal precision.

For Dining, Home Office and Hospitality

Its balanced proportions and comfort make Kobe suitable for different uses.

It can be used in:

• dining rooms;
• home offices;
• studies;
• hotels;
• lounges;
• restaurants;
• contract and hospitality spaces.

The structure appears visually light while maintaining the solidity required for everyday use.

Kobe therefore combines form, function and cultural inspiration in a chair that is discreet yet strongly recognizable.

Features

• Brand: WEWOOD
• Model: Kobe Chair
• Type: Armchair / dining chair with armrests
• Designer: Daniel Sousa
• Year: 2020
• Structure: Solid wood
• Available wood species: Oak or walnut
• Seat and backrest: Upholstered and covered
• Upholstery: Fabric or leather
• Craftsmanship: Artisanal joinery
• Distinctive element: Continuity between armrests, legs, seat and backrest
• Inspiration: Japanese aesthetics and the city of Kobe
• Design: Minimalist, harmonious and contemporary
• Suitable for: Residential and hospitality spaces
• Use: Indoor

Materials and Finishes

Kobe combines:

• Solid wood
• Oak or walnut
• Fabric or leather upholstery

The wooden structure highlights the woodworking techniques and the continuity of the design, while the upholstered elements add comfort and customization possibilities.

For information about all available fabrics, leathers and finishes, please contact our customer service.

Dimensions

• Width: 57 cm
• Depth: 55.5 cm
• Height: 77 cm

Designer

Daniel Sousa is a Portuguese designer born in 1977 who graduated in Industrial Design from E.S.A.D. C.R. in 2000.

His education and professional experience encompass different materials and production processes, including furniture, stone, metal, ceramics and glass.

After an initial period combining teaching and freelance design, he worked within several design teams, developing particular expertise in technologies related to molded plastics.

In 2007, he co-founded Diwiz, a product design company through which he develops projects ranging from household objects and indoor and outdoor furniture to consumer electronics and industrial tools.

In 2017, he also completed a Master’s degree in Art & Design for Public Space at the Faculty of Fine Arts of the University of Porto.

Kobe expresses his approach through a synthesis of conceptual context, technical construction and formal simplicity, creating a chair in which every element contributes to the perception of the whole.