TIMES MALANG, MALANG – Furniture is an important element of the interior corners of the room. In fact, it is used in various kinds of activities, from sitting, sleeping, and storing. The aesthetic value in furniture design also becomes an interesting work of art and beautifies the room.

Started from a passion for developing things creatively, Binsar Singgih Priandika founded a design studio and furniture workshop, WOF Wooden. Based on his knowledge from studying product design at Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember. He officially opened his business in the furniture industry in Malang City.

Founded in 2020, the pandemic was not an obstacle for WOF to develop their business. On the contrary, the work-from-home/WFH trend has become a positive turning point. By working from home, a lot of people become more aware of small details in their room, including furniture.

Landai Chair, by studio and furniture workshop, WOF Wooden. (photo: Muhammad Kamal Fasya)

“The pandemic became the initial momentum for WOF, and indeed the digital demand at that time was high,” said Binsar. Social media became Binsar’s alternative way to introduce WOF products.

As a furniture manufacturer and designer, WOF adopts a minimalistic — Japanese style. Oriented towards function and simplicity of visuals, WOF’s designs have unique characteristics. From the construction parts, applying Japanese techniques to the cultural value of product development.

Binsar and his team create products like chairs, tables, benches, and compartment furniture. They released 2 product segmentation's: catalogue (authentic products from WOF Wooden) and custom (according to customer’s request)

In almost 5 years, WOF has released more than 10 catalog series with diverse collaboration products. One of their most eye-catching pieces is The Chisai Stool. “Chisai” comes from the Japanese language, meaning small/mini. The Chisai Stool is inspired by the Indonesian sitting culture, dingklik. Bringing a narrative connected to local wisdom, WOF is addressing the modern people who are unfamiliar with design and art as their target market. Other series include Mori, Taku, Kihon, Shi, Meka Desk, Nakaba Table, Bunkatsu, Heikou, and Gengai Shelf. All WOF products can be accessed through their social media and website.

Furniture workshop at WOF Wooden. (photo: Muhammad Kamal Fasya)

Sungkai wood and meranti wood become the preferred materials in making WOF’s furniture. There are also 4 finishing selections: walnut brown, matte black, teak brown, and natural light.

Although it seems simple, the creation of WOF products goes through a complicated process. The way they conduct in-depth research until product development during the process can be seen from their furniture components that are designed in such a way and the customer can self-assemble.

Another interesting fact about WOF Wooden is that the waste and leftover materials are reprocessed into products, such as coasters and ballpoint pen holders. This creative utilization can reduce waste from the furniture industry as well as increase economic value. WOF Wooden also opens up opportunities for collaboration. They also showcase their art works through various exhibitions. (*)