Elegance Meets Artistry: My New Minotti Torii Dining Chairs

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Helen Reid

3 months ago


I ordered a set of 6 Torii dining chairs from Minotti several, and they finally made it to my home! They’ve quickly become the star of my dining space. From the moment I laid my eyes on them, I knew they weren’t just ordinary dining chairs—they’re a statement, a conversation piece, and an embodiment of refined elegance. Let me share why I’m absolutely in love with them.



At first, I discovered its lounge chair version. A pair of comfortable lounge chairs showcased a curved body and swivel base. I sat on one of them, and I was amazed at how comfortable and supportive it was. 



Personally, I didn't love the fabric finish as it reminded me of lizard skin, haha. When I told the salesperson how much I loved it, she told me the Torii collection includes a sofa and dining chairs. 



This is the lounge chair. 



A lounge chair with a sofa. 

And behold, the dining chairs! 



These were the dining chairs, and they were seriously the most comfortable dining chair I've ever sat on - hotels, high-end restaurants, my parents' house, friends' houses ... - nothing came close to these! 



I left the store with a spec sheet, and I couldn't stop thinking about the chairs. 



The Minotti Torii Dining Chair is an exquisite piece of contemporary furniture designed by the acclaimed Japanese designer Oki Sato, the founder of Nendo Studio. The Torii collection is a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, embodying the delicate balance between Japanese minimalism and Italian luxury.


Design and Inspiration


The name "Torii" is derived from the traditional Japanese gate found at the entrance of Shinto shrines, symbolizing the transition from the mundane to the sacred. This concept of transition and passage is deeply embedded in the design of the Torii dining chair. The chair’s slender legs, with their gentle curvature, are reminiscent of the graceful lines of these iconic gates, conveying a sense of lightness and elegance.


Materials and Craftsmanship


The Torii dining chair is crafted with the utmost attention to detail, using high-quality materials that reflect Minotti's commitment to excellence. 



The chair's structure is made from plywood, and then it is coated in high-resilience variable-density polyurethane foam. 



The seat and backrest are generously padded, offering both comfort and support. 



Upholstery options range from premium fabrics to luxurious leathers, each meticulously selected to complement the chair's refined silhouette. 



The upholstered elements are finished with precise stitching, highlighting the chair's sophisticated design.


Design Process by Oki Sato

Oki Sato approached the design of the Torii dining chair with his signature philosophy of simplicity and subtle innovation. The chair’s proportions were meticulously calculated to achieve a perfect balance between aesthetic beauty and functional comfort. Sato's design process involved extensive research into traditional Japanese joinery techniques, which he seamlessly integrated with Minotti's cutting-edge manufacturing technologies.



The curved backrest, a defining feature of the Torii chair, was carefully sculpted to provide ergonomic support while maintaining a visually light profile. 



This curvature, along with the chair's slender legs, creates a dynamic yet harmonious interplay of lines, which Sato describes as "a rhythm of light and shadow."



The aluminum metal legs feature a polished anti-fingerprint finish. 



Another notable and defininig feature of the Torii dining chair is its swivability. The chair has a 360-degree swivel feature with return that makes entertaining so much more engaging and practical. 



You can find the Minotti logo on the bottom of the sturdy swival base. 



Both the seat and back cushions have removable covers, in case of accidental spills or stains. 



Minotti recommends professional cleaning. And 10 to 15 years down the road, when you feel like changing the looks of your dining chairs, Minotti offers reupholstering, making your investment more worthwhile and sustainable. 



The Minotti Torii Dining Chair is more than just a piece of furniture; it is a work of art that embodies the convergence of tradition and modernity. 



Oki Sato’s design encapsulates the essence of minimalism, where every detail serves a purpose, and nothing is superfluous. With its refined aesthetics and superior craftsmanship, the Torii dining chair is a testament to Minotti’s dedication to creating timeless pieces that elevate the art of living.

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