Climb on up and have a chat, a new line of ottomans and pouf seating from Keilhauer is here. Dubbed Doko, the Japanese word for “where” these playful seats inspire informal gatherings anywhere. 

“In thinking where Doko might find its home, we saw such tremendous variability: in offices where an impromptu strategy session might be held; in a gallery where quiet contemplation is encouraged; at schools or community centers where children and youth might be invited to play or relax or even a loft where adults and children might read a story together,” says Jackie Maze, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at Keilhauer. “Its very name is inspired from its defining feature - how it creates spaces where people can play, talk and listen.” 

Designed by Ayako Takase and Cutter Hutton from Observatory Studio, the new seating was specifically created to foster easy conversations. “Doko is an expression of informality. The comfort and playfulness of its form fosters easy collegiality and meaningful connections. In soft muted tones their rounded contours create a relaxing lounge, but when bold colors are applied spaces are infused with a playful energy and joy,” says Hutton. 

Designing prototypes in every imaginable hue, from vibrant yellows and pinks to deep blues and reds, Observatory and Keilhauer were themselves taken up with an urge to play – prompting the addition of a child-sized model to the line-up and the option of incorporating Active Seating via a rounded base.