Minimalist Japanese design has been celebrated on a number of occasions on Minimalissimo, and today I am delighted to share with you product designer Kana Nakanishi's wonderful W1200xD380xH480 Finnish birch wood bench. Named simply after its dimensions, the seat's U-shaped back rest doubles as its legs, sitting diagonally through the base.

The design is minimal, but the strong contrast of the structure also gives the impression of a sculpture. It can also function as a small partition in a room and public space because of the large backboard.

Without compromising the basic functionality of a bench, Nakanishi has produced a beautifully simple piece of furniture. Although the name may not be particularly catchy, I love this design.