Yi-Fu Chen, founder of Lo Lat Furniture & Objects and alumnus of the Department of Design at Taiwan Tech, recently donated his handcrafted “Hirundo Chair” to his alma mater. Blending traditional mortise-and-tenon techniques with modern manufacturing, the chair - a finalist in Japan’s International Furniture Design Competition Asahikawa (IFDA)- now enriches Taiwan Tech’s “Classic Classroom” collection, inspiring new generations of design students.

Reflecting on his journey, Chen, a graduate of the Industrial and Commercial Design program, shared, “Seeing world-famous chairs displayed at Taiwan Tech made me dream of one day having my own design featured there”. Although he did not originally plan to become a furniture designer, a chance encounter with the solid wood industry sparked a passion that led him to self-study and hands-on practice. Today, Chen has dedicated over 11 years to the craft.

Taiwan Tech’s Department of Design “Classic Classroom” features 55 iconic chairs, allowing students to sit, touch, and experience the design details firsthand.

The “Classic Classroom” at Taiwan Tech showcases 55 world-renowned chair designs, inviting students to sit, touch, and experience each piece’s unique craftsmanship. According to Department Chair Ting-Yi Lin, “Each iconic chair here is more than a piece of furniture - it’s a teaching tool, a source of inspiration, and a witness to a designer’s creative journey. These chairs are part of the classroom itself, encouraging students to engage, explore, and truly feel. Because that moment of sensory connection is where design begins.”

Yi-Fu Chen shared that the inspiration for the “Hirundo Chair” came from the vintage peacock chair in his grandmother’s home. He completely reimagined its proportions, seat height, and backrest form, creating a fresh interpretation of this historically rich silhouette. It was his first attempt at chair design and fabrication - a year-long process involving rigorous testing and refinement of ergonomic principles, joinery, and woodworking techniques. Named the “Hirundo Chair” for its sleek, airy form, it also symbolizes the good fortune and happiness that swallows traditionally bring into Taiwanese homes.

The design of the “Hirundo Chair” (right) was inspired by the vintage “Peacock Chair” (left). Yi-Fu Chen completely reimagined its proportions, seat height, and backrest shape, offering a modern reinterpretation of this historically rich classic.

The Hirundo Chair is crafted from solid ash, oak, and walnut, echoing the Taiwanese, Japanese, and Western influences of the original peacock chair. The result is a harmonious, fluid form that fits seamlessly into a variety of spaces. Every detail -  from seat dimensions to height - has been carefully calculated. The ergonomically curved backrest offers excellent support, while the stackable leg design allows up to four chairs to be conveniently stored together.

Blending traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery with modern precision manufacturing, the chair achieves both structural strength and production efficiency. Compared to the original peacock chair, it is sturdier and lighter. Finally, each piece is finely hand-sanded and detailed, delivering a warm, refined tactile experience for the user.

The Hirundo Chair is finely hand-carved and sanded to offer users a seating experience that feels both refined and full of warmth.

Reflecting on his views of furniture design, Yi-Fu Chen said, “A chair’s design can reflect the needs, aesthetics, and mindset of its time. In a way, each chair tells a chapter of design history.” He hopes that in Taiwan Tech’s “Classic Classroom”, students will compare the Hirundo Chair with other iconic pieces, gaining insight into how design styles have evolved across different eras.

An alumnus from Taiwan Tech’s Department of Design and founder of Lo Lat Furniture & Objects Yi-Fu Chen shared the design journey of the Hirundo Chair and his entrepreneurial experience during the department’s alumni homecoming event.

He also encouraged younger students to explore the field of furniture design, noting that there are endless possibilities in terms of materials, design, and craftsmanship, all of which are worth discovering. He expressed his eagerness to share his experiences with students, saying, “If you're interested in this field, feel free to come talk to me.”

Reflecting on his time at Taiwan Tech, Yi-Fu Chen shared that the design education there emphasizes concept development and logical thinking. He particularly fondly remembered the “Modeling Class”, where students were required to turn their ideas into physical models using various materials. This experience not only made him think deeply about design but also provided a solid foundation in hands-on craftsmanship. He hopes the university will continue to offer more activities, such as visiting furniture factories, to help students gain a practical understanding of production processes and connect design thinking with real industry needs.

Currently, Yi-Fu Chen continues to develop new chair designs and wooden tables, aiming to further strengthen his brand's style and recognition. He also hopes to use his creations to introduce the charm and value of solid wood furniture to a broader audience.

On the occasion of Taiwan Tech's 50th anniversary and nearly 30 years since the founding of the Department of Design, Yi-Fu Chen donated the Hirundo Chair, adding another classic to the “Classic Classroom”. The photo shows the photo of the 2025 alumni reunion group from the Department of Design.