C/D Bench
New possibilities from non-uniform wood
‘C-grade timber’ refers to wood with visible knots or stains, while ‘D-grade timber’ is felled wood left unused in the forest. This bench reimagines such materials not as flaws but as character. Each piece is individually selected and assembled, embracing variations in grain, colour, and texture to celebrate the unique qualities of these underutilised timbers.
This bench was exhibited in the “Forest of Tranquility” at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, where it was viewed by many visitors. Following the close of the Expo, it has been carried forward into new settings, including the offices of H2O Retailing Corporation and hospitals and parks across Japan.
- Client:
- the Omou Bench Project
Organizer: H2O Retailing Corporation / Osaka-Kansai Expo Co-Design Challenge Program - Director:
- Shigeki Hattori〈graf〉
- Photographer:
- ©2025 Natsumi Kinugasa (Courtesy of H2O Retailing Corporation)
- Product Launch:
- April 2025
- Tasks:
- Product Concept Development
Product Design - Website:
- https://omoubench.jp/articles/tatsuno-shizuka-en/
“Through this project, I had the opportunity to speak with people involved in the timber industry, and I learnt that wood is graded from A to D. Among these, “C” and “D”-grade timber are rarely used for products due to various factors—such as their appearance, difficulty in processing, and lower profitability.
“Could the distinct features of C/D-grade timber be appreciated as something beautiful?”
This question became my starting point. By embracing the knots, uneven colouration, and stains typical of these grades, I explored how their individuality could be highlighted. By breaking down and reassembling the timber, I sought to create a design that brings out its raw, powerful beauty—while still harmonising with simple, modern spaces.
The name “C/D Bench” reflects the desire to reconsider the overlooked value of these timbers, and to use the Omou Bench as a medium for sharing the potential and character of such materials. I hope this approach encourages a renewed respect for the individuality of each tree and supports the idea of sustainable forestry for generations to come.”