NII presented several new launches at Salone del Mobile. Developed for contemporary workplaces in constant evolution, the pieces reflect the brand’s philosophy of “ingenious design” – an approach that combines functionality, comfort and clarity of form to support the many ways that people meet, work and interact today.
The collection embraces flexibility and dynamic configurability, creating spatial frameworks that encourage interaction and collective exchange. OnOffice speaks to Mr Tako Hirotaka, creative director at NII, to find out more.
BITMAP collection designed by Todd Bracher
OnOffice: Please tell us about NII and its design approach.
Tako Hirotaka: The way we work is changing rapidly – driven by more flexible work styles, digitalisation and a growing focus on human capital. We also see more companies rethinking the role of the office, with trends emphasising comfort and more inviting work environments. At NII, we believe that the office should be more than just an alternative to home or cafés. It should be a place that attracts and inspires people just like entertainment: a space where people gather, connect and inspire one another.
PIGNA collection designed by AMDL CIRCLE – Michele De Lucchi
We translate our philosophy of “ingenious design” as a design that sparks creativity and new ideas. It is about creating environments that are filled with energy and inspiration; spaces that connect people, stimulate ideas and collaboration, and support new challenges. Aiming to shape experiences, and subtly guiding how people move, connect and interact within a space. Through multifunctional structures and carefully considered details, “ingenious design” becomes a philosophy that introduces creative shifts in the relationship between people and space, bringing new energy and unexpected connections into the workplace.
PARLAMENTO collection designed by Jun Aizaki / CRÈME
OO: What does NII offer that is different or innovative?
TH: It’s about creating a sense of surprise, where something that feels almost impossible is brought to life through design and engineering. Unlike conventional office furniture, which tends to prioritise standardisation focused on efficiency and functionality, NII redefines furniture as something that activates space itself. It offers flexibility in how it can be used, and is designed to function as a stage that brings out people’s creativity and relationships. With a sculptural presence that complements and enhances its surroundings, it delivers new value that goes beyond the traditional boundaries of the office.
BIWA collection designed by ITOKI’s Japanese designer, Kohei Wada
OO: Please talk us through some of the launch pieces at Salone.
TH: HAKUSAN is a stacking chair designed by UK design studio Industrial Facility. As a new archetype for a chair, this design achieves a balance of comfort, stackability and cost through a minimal set of components. Its forward-moving silhouette, created by the integrated frame and armrests, functions as a design icon that reflects a carefully considered weight balance, helping to minimise the load when carrying the chair. A range of CMF options is available, from natural wood paired with sharp metal accents to refined tone-on-tone finishes.
HAKUSAN collection designed by UK design studio Industrial Facility
BIWA is a lounge task chair designed by ITOKI’s Japanese designer, Kohei Wada. Despite its enveloping lounge-style form, this task chair supports comfortable work with a well-defined ankle-tilt mechanism. Its distinctive shoulder rest, connected by a transparent neck and appearing to float, supports a range of relaxed postures. A variety of configurations is available, including low and high versions, glides or casters, and finishes ranging from one-tone options to polished bases and leather upholstery. ALLROUND is a simple yet uncommon stool with built-in casters designed in-house. It moves smoothly and freely, like a hovercraft, encouraging active communication. While constructed entirely from metal for durability, its generously rounded edges ensure a comfortable and approachable user experience. The seat, neck, and base can all be disassembled, allowing for flat-pack shipping.
ALLROUND collection designed by Hirotaka Tako / NII Creative Director
OO: What made you want to work with these particular designers for the launch – and what was their brief?
TH: We collaborate with architects, product designers and a range of talented professionals skilled in areas such as visual communication and hospitality environments; designers who we respect and connect with the brand’s philosophy. Through ongoing dialogue, these collaborations lead to collections that express NII’s values across cultures and creative fields. For our first Salone presentation, we collaborated with Tedd Bracher, Rodolfo Agrella, Jun Aizaki, Industrial Facility, Kohei Wada and AMdL Circle. Balancing form and structure came with its own complexities, but through collaboration across different languages and cultures, we were able to bring to life products that express NII’s distinctive character while maintaining a high level of quality.
CONNEXA collection designed by Rodolfo Agrella
Discover more about NII here.
