No glue or nails: a Chinese furniture brand has revived traditional carpentry
Their innovative approach has breathed new life into established customs, integrating them into a contemporary context.
Their philosophy is based on the ancient technique of sunmao—a carpentry art that allows for joining parts without nails, glue, or metal fittings. In China, this technique was used in the construction of palaces and the creation of furniture during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), and now this principle has inspired designers to create minimalist metal furniture.
Sunmao technology is based on a system of tongues and grooves that fit perfectly together. Trigram made each joint three-way and completely symmetrical. This allows their furniture to be assembled and disassembled in minutes. Chairs, tea stands, and incense holders—all elements are interchangeable, and their functionality can be changed depending on the situation.
