2026 Graduation Project 'LEANING FURNITURE' by Ao Kitamura — IDREIT®

Leaning Furniture is a proposal for a non-self-standing piece of furniture that is completed by leaning against a wall and resting on the floor. This project begins with the idea that “movability” is one of the essential qualities of furniture. Among everyday actions, I focused on the temporary gesture of leaning—placing an object not by fixing it permanently, but by casually relying on the relationship between wall, floor, and the leaning body. Through experiments, I realized that this simple action can gently transform space: it changes how objects are perceived, how they are used, and how a room can be rearranged with minimal effort.

Conventional shelving often prioritizes “storing,” which can hide the attractiveness of the items themselves. In contrast, Leaning Furniture treats display as a primary function. By assuming the furniture does not stand on its own, the ways of placing and showing objects become more flexible, allowing users to create “favorite spots” in daily life. The main structure is made from 30×40 mm wood members, and it integrates interchangeable tray modules that vary by purpose. These modules encourage multiple actions—place, insert, and hang—expanding both use and visual expression.

The system is designed for items that are often kept out of sight: books, CDs, and vinyl records, as well as desk accessories, temporary storage near an entrance, and clip-like use with side magnets. Because it can be moved easily, it adapts to different heights and situations, supporting use while sitting or standing. The goal is to provide a light, casual way to recompose a room while making personal belongings visible and enjoyable.

Since stability depends on the weight and arrangement of objects, safety is addressed through improved friction conditions and optional stabilizing parts. Two types are developed: a T-shaped auxiliary part to reduce lateral sway and tipping while retaining the freedom of leaning, and a wall-mounted U-shaped part that restrains movement more strongly and turns the wall area into a dedicated place for the furniture. By choosing and combining these parts, users can balance openness and stability according to their environment.

Beyond the home, the project also explores potential use as shop fixtures, where the relationship between objects (products) and their presentation is central.