OUR STORY
KOZAI is Hideki Shimizu and Ron Cromie.
Japan-born Hideki studied fine arts in the U.S. and London, and has an intense passion for design and an eye for detail. Ron, a long-time resident of Japan and China, has always been fascinated by furniture and the art of furniture making.
We share a keen interest in international design, in particular the contemporary re-interpretation of mid-century modern design, whether Scandinavian, American or Japanese. Based in Vancouver we also celebrate the open West Coast lifestyle. Close to nature, a less-is-more aesthetic, growing Asian influence, and an enthusiasm for artisanal craft.
KOZAI brings together a tightly edited and exclusive collection of the best of West Coast studio furniture and artisanal lighting, complemented by carefully selected and meticulously crafted furniture and lighting from Japan.
Our name Kozai (硬材) is used by Japanese craftsmen to designate hardwoods. At Kozai we celebrate the unique character and personality of each and every piece of solid hardwood. Our artisans and workshops are committed to working only with temperate hardwoods, all of which must be responsibly sourced. Their clean designs and superb craftsmanship meet both functional use and ergonomic comfort.
TRADES
Kozai’s Trade division brings the North American design community an exclusive and tightly-edited collection of European and Japanese dining chairs, casual chairs, sofas and lighting – all crafted in Japan.
Over the years, our clients have become increasingly international. In addition to North America we’ve shipped furniture and lighting products to the Middle East, China, Hong Kong, Australia and SE Asia. We’ve also worked on custom commissions from leading restaurants and hospitality groups including the Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis and Hudson Yards NYC.
Our aim is to deliver dining, casual and sofa seating with fresh contemporary design, ergonomic comfort and superb craftsmanship that exceeds client expectations no matter where they live.
Thanks for visiting!