New York-based hm-LI Studio, led by designer Haoming Li, has introduced three furniture collections that push the boundaries of form and function. The Weaving Chair, Le Sourire Chair, and Curl Cabinet Series reflect a harmonious balance between traditional aesthetics and contemporary minimalism. Each piece reveals an attention to detail and a commitment to blending natural materials with innovative design approaches.
Weaving Chair: A Playful Exploration of Form
The Weaving Chair is a standout piece that reimagines everyday objects into intricate designs. Inspired by an impromptu moment folding a receipt, designer Haoming Li developed a concept that transforms flat surfaces into fluid, three-dimensional structures. This chair features bent wood construction, employing traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery that allows for disassembly and user participation in assembly.
Its design embodies a flowing aesthetic that feels light yet intentional, borrowing from the Chinese concept of “?,” a structural element in traditional furniture. Available in dining chairs, benches, and stools, the Weaving Chair series caters to both adults and children. Material options include natural wood finishes, colorful lacquers, and upholstered textiles, offering versatility to match various interiors.
Le Sourire Chair: Bridging Movement and Solidity
The Le Sourire Chair embraces the fluidity of traditional Chinese calligraphy, translating its grace into solid wood. The curved lines of the chair mimic the flowing motion of a brushstroke, creating a sense of movement in a static object. This design approach reflects Li’s architectural background, emphasizing structure and balance in every detail.
Using CNC carving technology, the chair achieves a seamless connection between the backrest and seat, creating a visually lightweight effect. Variants range from high-backed chairs for ergonomic support to lower-backed options suitable for benches or side tables. The finishes, from natural oils to traditional lacquers, highlight the series’ flexibility while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.
Curl Cabinet Series: Functional Elegance with a Modern Twist
The Curl Cabinet Series combines curved surfaces and woven grid patterns to explore form and function in storage solutions. Designed for adaptability, its multi-directional opening doors make it suitable for various uses, whether as a spacious sideboard or a compact bedside table.
Blending wood and metal, the Curl Cabinet achieves a balance of industrial and natural elements. The modular design supports customization, with finishes that range from wood veneers to bold lacquer options. Its clean, minimalist aesthetic is elevated by its intricate grid details, adding a layer of visual interest while maintaining practical utility.
Design Philosophy: Where Heritage Meets Modernity
hm-LI Studio’s collections are a testament to Haoming Li’s ability to merge cultural influences with contemporary design principles. Drawing on her architectural training and her family’s traditions in Chinese art, Li crafts furniture that feels rooted yet forward-thinking. The studio’s focus on natural materials and timeless forms ensures these pieces integrate seamlessly into diverse spaces.
With these new collections, hm-LI Studio invites users to engage with their furniture in meaningful ways, from the tactile assembly of the Weaving Chair to the interactive adaptability of the Curl Cabinet. This thoughtful approach demonstrates how design can move beyond utility to create objects that resonate on a personal and cultural level.
