Kinu sideboard by Arflex, designed by Motomi Kawakami around 1980, here presented in the smaller version.
This model represents one of the most interesting examples of Kawakami’s research into modularity and flexibility in furniture design, developed during those years through an essential yet strongly characterized language.
The structure is composed of a modular system of drawers and storage compartments that are completely repositionable, allowing them to be freely moved and reconfigured according to the user’s needs, transforming the sideboard into a dynamic rather than static element. The chromatic interplay, typical of the 1980s, alternates lacquered surfaces in shades of red, white and blue/lilac, creating a bold and highly recognizable graphic effect.
The top and base are finished in glossy black lacquer, giving the piece a strong sculptural presence and an elegant material contrast. It is also finished on the back, making it suitable for placement at the center of a room.
The black cylindrical handles, with their minimal design, further emphasize the rational and industrial approach of the project.
The Kinu sideboard stands out not only as a storage unit, but as a true experimental design object, expressing Arflex’s international vision and the influence of Japanese design applied to Italian production.
An iconic, rare and visually striking piece, ideal for contemporary interiors, postmodern design collections or environments requiring a functional yet strongly distinctive element.
Product Name: Kinu Sideboard by Motomi Kawakami for Arflex 1980 – Small Version
Designer: Motomi Kawakami for Arflex
Year of Design: Circa 1980
Style: 1980s design with postmodern influences; essential and modular language of Japanese origin applied to Italian production
Main Materials: Modular structure in lacquered wood; lacquered surfaces in shades of red, white and lilac; glossy black lacquered top and base; black cylindrical handles
Distinctive Design: Modular system composed of drawers and storage compartments that are fully repositionable and reconfigurable according to the user’s needs. The typical 1980s chromatic contrast creates a bold and highly recognizable graphic effect. The glossy black top and base provide sculptural presence and material contrast, while the minimal cylindrical handles highlight the rational and industrial approach of the project. Finished also on the back, it can be placed at the center of a room.
Dimensions: Length: 165cm | Depth: 50cm | Height: 86cm
Comfort: Flexible and customizable configuration; practical access to drawers and compartments; designed to adapt to changing functional needs over time
Typical Use: Storage sideboard for living rooms, studies or contemporary interiors; also suitable as a room divider thanks to the fully finished back
Design Icon: One of the most interesting examples of Motomi Kawakami’s research into modularity and flexibility in furniture; expression of Arflex’s international vision and of Japanese design influence in Italian 1980s production
Versatility: Dynamic and reconfigurable element, ideal for contemporary interiors, postmodern design collections or environments requiring a functional yet strongly identity-driven piece
Current Condition: Excellent overall condition (any minor signs of age consistent with time do not affect functionality or stability)
Additional Notes: Please note that this object is in excellent vintage condition. Minor signs of age may be present, which do not affect its functionality. We kindly invite you to consider these characteristics before purchasing.
Motomi Kawakami (Tokyo, 1940) is a Japanese designer and architect who successfully combined the sobriety of Eastern minimalism with Italian manufacturing elegance. After graduating in Tokyo, he moved to Milan in 1966, collaborating with companies such as Arflex, Zanotta and Cassina, developing an essential, poetic and ergonomic language. In the 1980s he created iconic models for Arflex, such as the “Kinu” chairs of 1983. Founder of Studio Kawakami in Tokyo and president of the Japan Industrial Designers’ Association, he is today recognized as a key figure in the cultural dialogue between East and West.
Founded in Milan in 1947 by Pirelli technicians and architect Marco Zanuso, Arflex was a pioneer in the use of polyurethane foam and elastic belts in furniture, revolutionizing modern comfort. Since the 1950s it has collaborated with masters such as Franco Albini, Joe Colombo, Cini Boeri and Motomi Kawakami, distinguishing itself through experimentation and quality. Today its furnishings, including icons such as the Lady sofa or the Marenco, are part of the permanent collections of the MoMA and the Triennale di Milano, confirming Arflex as an undisputed protagonist of Italian design.