hm-LI Studio, led by founder and designer Haoming Li, has unveiled three innovative furniture collections: the Weaving Chair, the Le Sourire Chair, and the Curl Cabinet Series. Each collection reflects hm-LI Studio’s distinct design philosophy, merging art, architecture, and nature to create furniture that inspires reflection and engagement through timeless, minimalistic forms.
Li’s background in architecture and her rich cultural heritage influence every piece, blending Eastern aesthetics with the functional needs of contemporary design. The studio’s unique approach uses weaving techniques and geometric forms to explore the balance between two-dimensional and three-dimensional design, producing visually compelling and lightweight furniture.
Weaving Series
The Weaving Chair Series showcases a delicate exploration of form and structure through flowing lines and spatial fluidity. “My designs stem from a fascination with the interplay between structure and fluidity, deeply influenced by the forms and philosophies of traditional Chinese art,” Li explains. “The Weaving Chair, for instance, was inspired by a simple moment — folding a receipt — and this idea of transforming flatness into volume became the core of the piece. I believe that design should be approachable, yet profound, allowing people to feel a sense of connection with the piece.”
The Weaving Chair is designed for precision, with bent wood construction allowing for disassembly and transport. Its unique mortise-and-tenon joinery system invites users to participate in the assembly, adding an element of interaction. Drawing on the Chinese aesthetic concept of “枨” (a traditional furniture structural element), the chair incorporates subtle Eastern influences in a modern, minimal design language. The collection offers dining chairs, benches, and stools in adult and children’s sizes, with a variety of material options from natural wood finishes to colorful lacquers and textiles.
Le Sourire Series
Using CNC solid wood carving technology, the Le Sourire Series achieves a seamless connection between the backrest and seat, creating a visually “floating” effect that reduces the perceived heaviness of solid wood. Ergonomically designed for comfort, the high-backed version provides support, while variations with lower backs or no backs are perfect for benches or side tables.
Additionally, Haoming draws inspiration from her family’s heritage in traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy. This cultural influence is reflected in the chair’s flowing, balanced lines, which evoke the graceful brushstrokes of calligraphy. The fluidity and elegance of these lines transform the solid wood into a soft, almost organic form, as though capturing the essence of movement within a static object. Inspired by the gentle flow of silk, the folds of the chair speak of softness in a fleeting moment — curves that symbolize both strength and refinement.
Curl Series
Combining wood and metal elements, the Curl Cabinet strikes a balance between industrial lightness and solid construction. The modular design can be adapted to different spaces, from larger sideboards to smaller bedside tables. Customizable surface finishes range from traditional wood veneers to bold Chinese lacquer finishes, allowing each piece to reflect the unique aesthetic of its environment.
“For me, design is not just about form; it’s about creating something that resonates on a personal level,” Li concludes.
Photography courtesy of hm-LI Studio.
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