12 March 2025

The Art of Tranquility

Flexform designer Fumie Shibata’s philosophy centers on a signature style marked by soft, yet meticulously crafted forms.

Fumie Shibata, a designer born in the serene landscapes of Yamanashi, Japan, has carved a distinctive niche in the world of high-end furniture. With a rich background spanning collaborations with both Japanese and international brands, Fumie brings an impressive breadth of experience to her craft. Her work encompasses everything from furniture and accessories to innovative designs in the healthcare sector, as well as the creative direction for one-of-a-kind capsule hotels.

When asked about her design philosophy, Fumie highlights her commitment to creating pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. “From an early age, I was taught by my family that if a piece looks good but isn’t comfortable – it doesn’t count,” she explains. This mantra guides her approach, ensuring that each creation not only captivates the eye but also invites the user to engage with it comfortably.

One of her notable creations, the ERI chair, embodies this philosophy beautifully. Inspired by the supple leather she encountered at Flexform’s workshop, Fumie envisioned a chair that offers both a sense of peace and freedom. “I pondered what form could provide a sanctuary in any space,” she says, drawing parallels between her design and the gentle delineation created by a shirt collar.

This page Elegantly uplifted jacket lapels inspired the delicate design contours of the Eri armchair, designed by Fumie Shibata for Flexform. Exquisite hand-turned and finished legs support an upholstered shell with well-balanced proportions that embraces the soft goose-down-filled seat and backrest cushions, features precisely designed to promote a satisfying sensation of relaxation. The soft, enveloping armchair is available in a broad array of fabric and leather upholstery options, in an interesting interplay of possible combinations between the shell and the cushions.

The ERI chair’s wider profile allows for personalization, encouraging users to adjust their seating posture or add cushions for additional comfort. Fumie’s artistic process involves a thoughtful layering of materials and textures, resulting in pieces that seem to evolve with the viewer’s gaze. “The curved backrest will make you feel like you’re almost floating,” she notes, a testament to her dedication to creating an immersive experience through design.

In her career, Fumie has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the EDIDA Lighting Category Award and the prestigious DFA Design for Asia Awards Grand Prize. Yet, her focus remains steadfastly on her craft and the connections her designs create. “I always endeavor to create works whose shapes embody a feeling of composure and human warmth,” she shares.

This page Fumie brings her designs to life in her studio, where they emerge with a remarkable precision that reflects her artistic vision.

Fumie’s journey as a designer is deeply intertwined with her travels and experiences. She believes that each location and culture has something unique to offer, contributing to her design sensibilities. As she reflects on her inspirations, she emphasizes the importance of evoking emotions in her work. “I want to offer the viewer a space to explore and expand on their experience within a familiar, but not too familiar, landscape,” she explains.

The philosophy behind her designs reveals a profound understanding of the relationship between people and their environments. “The sense of a place is built from many elements,” she notes, highlighting how individual experiences shape our perceptions. This approach resonates deeply in her work, inviting viewers to engage with her pieces on a personal level.

Fumie Shibata’s contributions to the design world exemplify a commitment to creating beautiful, functional, and comfortable furniture. Her pieces not only serve a purpose but also create a narrative that encourages introspection and connection. In every chair, table, or accessory, Fumie invites us to discover a sanctuary of calm, making her work a beautiful addition to any home. Through her artistry, she continues to remind us that design can indeed be a pathway to tranquility and delight.

View Fumie Shibata’s designs at Studio Italia.