Dezeen School Shows: an adjustable stool crafted from cord and wood inspired by a traditional Japanese string game is among projects from Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts. Also featured is a shelving unit referencing traditional Okinawan buildings, and a tray crafted of discarded wood. Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts Institution: Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts Course: Department of Design Tutor: Hiroki Takada School statement: "At Takada Laboratory within the Design Major at Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts, students are guided to create work that connects local culture, material exploration and international design discourse.

"The studio emphasises research, sketching, prototyping and full-scale production, supporting students in developing projects from initial ideas to exhibition-ready outcomes. "A defining feature of the laboratory is its exhibition-led approach. Students are encouraged to produce work with the clarity, originality and finish required for international presentation, including exhibition contexts such as SaloneSatellite in Milan.

"Through this process, they learn to see design not only as object-making, but also as a form of communication that can engage wider audiences. "The laboratory also places strong value on close individual mentoring. Each student is supported in refining ideas, materials and design language through sustained one-to-one guidance.

"This approach has contributed to a growing record of international recognition, including multiple iF Design Award and A' Design Award achievements. "By combining careful mentoring, practical making and outward-looking presentation, Takada Laboratory cultivates designers able to develop original work with both local depth and broader contemporary relevance." Airom by Hiroto Nakamura "Airom is a lighting installation that gives visible form to air through tracing paper.

The material takes shape only when filled with air, while the light inside softly reveals its presence. "Each shade is hand-formed without moulds, resulting in subtle differences and an organic character. "The project explores the relationship between air, light and form, transforming an invisible element into a gentle spatial experience.

"Its name combines the ideas of air and form, expressing a structure that appears temporary and delicate, yet becomes present through inflation and illumination." Student: Hiroto Nakamura Course: Design Ki-ri stool by Yuimi Yonesu "Ki-ri Stool draws on the quiet charm of Japanese paper. More than a decorative material, it holds light and air, returning them as a gentle glow and subtle movement.

"The design reflects the Japanese sensibility of ma, creating a sense of stillness that calms the surrounding space. "Layers of paper soften the form and give the stool a delicate presence, while the wooden structure adds warmth and stability. "Both Japanese paper and wood age gracefully over time, deepening in tone and revealing traces of shared use.

"The piece explores how material, atmosphere and time can quietly shape everyday experience." Student: Yuimi Yonesu Course: Design Jellyfish Table by Erina Oshiro "Jellyfish Table is inspired by the graceful movement of jellyfish drifting through the ocean. "Although jellyfish are naturally soft, this design reinterprets their organic form through contrasting materials: glass and bent steel rods.

"The legs are created from flowing curved rods gathered together to evoke the rounded, floating presence of a jellyfish. "A transparent glass top reveals the vivid structure beneath and allows light, colour and reflections to interact across the surface. "Through its delicate balance of fluid lines and clear materiality, the table brings a sense of softness, lightness and quiet movement into the interior."

Student: Erina Oshiro Course: Design Flowerblock Shelf by Mizuki Chinen "Flowerblock Shelf is inspired by 'flower blocks' a distinctive architectural feature commonly found in Okinawan buildings. "These perforated concrete blocks soften strong sunlight while allowing air to pass through, combining function with decorative beauty. "This project reinterprets that quality in a shelving structure by creating gaps between the wooden boxes, giving the piece a light and airy character.

"The open framework reduces visual heaviness and brings a sense of spaciousness to the surrounding interior. "By translating a familiar element of Okinawan architecture into furniture, the design connects local building culture with contemporary everyday living." Student: Mizuki Chinen Course: Design PoinT by Yuina Nakada "PoinT is a minimalist stool inspired by the simple beauty of triangles.

The design explores how negative space can transform a solid form into something light and airy, giving the object a floating presence that blends naturally into its surroundings. "Constructed from angular wooden planes, the stool balances clarity of form with visual openness. "A gap in the seat is designed to fit th