New Proposals for Creating Sustainable Learning Environments in Academic and Public Spaces –
Kotobuki Seating Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representatives: Shigeyuki Fukazawa andKeiko Fukazawa) has developed “TRANSWOOD SEATING SD-777-TW,” a seating solution for lecture and learning spaces that utilizes the eco-friendly material brand “TRANSWOOD®” developed by hide kasuga 1896 Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director: Hideyuki Kasuga; hereinafter “hk1896”). Sales will commence in April 2026.Based on the company’s extensive design expertise in academic furniture cultivated over many years, this fixed seating system was designed with environmental harmony in mind from the very stage of material selection.
By incorporating the new value of recyclable materials into designs that meet the requirements of long-term durability, public accessibility, and an environment conducive to focused learning—as demanded in educational and research settings—we propose a model for sustainable learning environments in academic and public spaces.
■ Background of Development
In university lecture halls, research facilities, and public learning spaces,
there is a growing need for spatial design that takes a long-term perspective rather than assuming frequent renovations.
Kotobuki Seating has provided numerous seating solutions to support learning and intellectual activities at universities, research institutions, and public facilities across the country.
In recent years, in such academic and public spaces,
in addition to safety, durability, and maintainability,
we have entered an era where the origin of materials and their harmony with the environment are themselves considered key factors in defining the value of a space.
The "TRANSWOOD SEATING SD-777-TW" was developed not merely by incorporating eco-friendly materials,
but from the perspective of what materials and structures are appropriate for academic spaces.
■ Features of the "TRANSWOOD SEATING SD-777-TW"
1. Adoption of the eco-friendly material "TRANSWOOD®"
The seat surface features "TRANSWOOD®," an eco-friendly material.
By leveraging the material properties derived from wood-based resources and biomass,
this design embodies an eco-conscious approach to education and research,
expressing it through the space itself.
2. Design and usability suited to a learning environment
While making the most of the gentle texture unique to natural materials,
the design is understated so as not to distract from lectures or concentration.
We have taken care to create a space where visual distractions are minimized, allowing students to focus on their studies.
3. Designed for long-term use
Designed for long-term use by a wide range of students and users,
the structure prioritizes durability and stability.
It reflects the design philosophy of Kotobuki Seating,
which has extensive experience in creating furniture for academic institutions.
■ Primary Target Facilities
・School lecture rooms and auditoriums
・Public learning and training facilities
・Libraries and educational facilities
・Learning spaces within cultural and public facilities, etc.
■ About TRANSWOOD®
TRANSWOOD®, an eco-friendly materials brand developed by hk1896, is a material created based on the concept of a "100-year cycle." It combines wood-based raw materials, such as thinned timber, with biomass resin derived from used cooking oil in a proprietary blend, contributing to the reduction of CO₂ emissions and plastic usage throughout the entire product lifecycle.
In addition, the material is compatible with a variety of manufacturing methods, including injection molding, extrusion, and 3D printing, and applications are being developed across a wide range of fields, such as construction, home appliances, mobility, daily necessities, and art objects. We are also engaged in joint development with major manufacturers, adopting a recyclable design that allows for post-use resource recovery, and working to establish a cross-industry circular economy framework.
■ Future Developments
Through the "TRANSWOOD SEATING SD-777-TW" (
), Kotobuki Seating will continue to promote the widespread adoption of environmentally harmonious furniture in academic and public spaces (
).
Moving forward, we will continue to contribute to the creation of sustainable learning environments while valuing perspectives rooted in the fields of education, research, and public service.
