George Nakashima Double Sliding-Door Cabinet in Walnut and Pandanus Cloth

George Nakashima for George Nakashima Studio, sideboard, American black walnut, pandanus cloth, United States, 1983.

With its sturdy form, thoughtful material choices, and refined joinery, this custom-made cabinet (1983) exemplifies George Nakashima’s distinctive approach and masterful craftsmanship. The unit is defined by a linear, disciplined layout, where crisp lines and angular forms shape the overall composition. In contrast, the top is crowned with a wooden slab whose front edge remains organic and free-flowing. Notably, the walnut itself is an integral part of the design – the wood's natural grain and deep warm color add to its natural appeal.

Behind the two sliding doors, the interior reveals an efficient storage system of drawers and shelves. The vertically gridded doors are backed with pandanus cloth, woven from a Southeast Asian palm. The base consists of two horizontal slats set perpendicularly into the frames, providing both stability and visual balance. Through this combination of precision and natural materiality, Nakashima created a durable piece with timeless character and exceptional craftsmanship –rooted in his close relationship with nature.

George Nakashima (1905-1990) was a well-known woodworker, architect and furniture designer from Japanese descendants. He was born in Spokane, Washington and enrolled in the University of Washington program in architecture. After his graduation in 1931, he decided to live his life as a bohemian in France. Afterwards, he spent some time in North Africa and eventually settled in Japan for some time. There, he started working for Antonin Raymond, who was an American architect. While working for Raymond, Nakashima extensively toured Japan while trying to understand the Japanese architecture and design. Around 1940, Nakashima decided to leave Japan and returned to the US. However, like many others with a Japanese ancestry, he was interned during World War Two and sent to Camp Minidoka in Idaho. There, Nakashima met a master woodcarver who tutored him in Japanese crafting techniques. From him, he learned to master traditional Japanese hand tools and joinery techniques. From here onwards, he began to use woodworking with discipline and patience, striving towards perfection in his designs. In 1943, he was released from the camp and invited by Antonin Raymond to live in his farm in New Hope, Pennsylvania. During this period, New Hope formed the home port for many great designers such as Frank Lloyd Powell and Paul Evans. Nakashima was a very spiritual and philosophical designer. The basis of Nakashima's work was derived from his practice of integral yoga. Therefore, primary goal of Nakashima's work was to live in harmony with nature rather than to destroy it for their own use. Above all, Nakashima wanted to embody a message to all modern societies that we must constantly remember the eternal in all that we do. He often said of his own work that he gave trees a second life. His designs are known for their exquisite craftsmanship and are often 'signed' with dovetails and butterfly connections. With these ideas in mind, Nakashima created his own style based on Japanese designs and shop practices, combined with the American and International Modern Styles. Therefore, he became one of the best 20th century American Art furniture designers.