George Nakashima

George Nakashima (1905–1990) was an American-Japanese architect and woodworker, renowned for his handcrafted furniture and woodwork that blends modern design with traditional craftsmanship. Born in Spokane, Washington, Nakashima studied architecture at the University of Washington and the MIT, and after a period of global travel, he began focusing on furniture design. His journey took a pivotal turn during World War II when he and his family were interned at Minidoka in Idaho, after which they moved to New Hope, Pennsylvania, where Nakashima established a woodworking studio.

Nakashima’s work is marked by its organic, sculptural qualities, often emphasizing the natural beauty of wood, especially walnut. He created iconic pieces such as the Conoid Chair and Coffee Table, combining sleek, modern lines with the wood's natural grain. His influence extended beyond furniture, as he was deeply involved in spiritual practices and inspired by the philosophy of Sri Aurobindo. Nakashima's contributions were recognized internationally, with exhibitions in Japan and the United States, and he was honored with numerous awards, including the Order of the Sacred Treasure from the Japanese government in 1983. His legacy continues through his daughter, Mira Nakashima, who oversees the ongoing work at the Nakashima studio in New Hope.