An alluring object maintaining a warm connection between humans and cats

Exploring refreshing new ways of thinking, creating and communicating, Tokyo-based Yoh Komiyama crafts ‘Modern Cat Tree NEKO’ – a vertically oriented piece offering a private space for cats while serving as a decorative interior object that fits seamlessly with any ambience. 

“We simply started by asking ourselves if it might be possible to design recreational cat furniture to fit architectural modernism” says Komiyama. 

With a practical yet artistic approach – this minimalistic see-through product brilliantly embodies high-quality natural materials facilitating comfortable climbing for a cat as it ascends and descends. 

The organic materials utilized for its fabrication offers functional value while also expressing a cultural fusion between the wooden materials of the East and stone materials of the West.

“Our pieces are made from carefully selected materials supplied by Hidakuma Inc and skillfully built by Masaaki Ito – a master craftsperson who lives with his cat” he adds. 

Serving as a testament to the diversity of Japan’s forests, the warm aesthetic feel of the Japanese hardwood is pleasing to both owners and cats alike.

While providing a low center of gravity to stabilize the tree – the Greek marble used for the base helps the cat regulate body temperature more effectively.

This eclectic one-of-a-kind object additionally comprises steel as well as contemporary textile by Kvadrat, with its deep roots in Scandinavia’s design tradition.

“We have wrapped the pillars using high-quality, made-in-Japan hemp cord to create scratching posts for cats to sharpen and maintain their claws, play as well as relax and this also gives them a feeling of owning its own domain” says Komiyama. 

The spaces in between each of its cylindrical posts further provides glimpses – beautifully conveying the mutual presence of both cat and human, maintaining a connection between the two for a greater intimacy. 

Lastly, as the axis of rotation is built in the outer structure – it can be effortlessly opened like a door for easy fuss-free maintenance.