Japanese designer Jin Kuramoto referenced furniture of the 18th century to create a Shaker-style chair for furniture brand Arflex. Designed to capture the “history and charm” of Shaker design, the Root chair features a minimal wooden framework and comes with or without curved arms.

Its minimal appearance is complemented by an upholstered seat in a range of muted colors, and the chair is available in several finishes. The culture of Shaker is focused around religion, philosophy and observation,”Kuramoto told Dezeen. “Many designers have been creating Shaker-inspired furniture by collaborating with various brands over several generations, every time enriching the Shakers’ heritage.”

Shaker furniture – which was made by a religious sect founded in England in the 18th century – is known for its minimal appearance, with the ladder-backed chair becoming a particularly notable design. The process of making was considered an act of prayer, and the furniture was intended as part of a simple lifestyle.