Lofty ambitions

Tojo’s mission is to develop furniture that is defined by timeless design, functionality, cost-effectiveness and sustainability. It’s a concept that the company pursues without compromise. “In our furniture, there’s no element that doesn’t serve a function. There are none of the usual decorative flourishes,” explains Schatz.

For many, this approach may be reminiscent of the virtues of Bauhaus style, but the Tojo principle aims to be more than just a pastiche; instead, it wants to make a unique statement. What began with a futon frame has now grown into a successful international furniture company that’s continuously expanding its product portfolio – without losing sight of its roots.

In addition to beds, tables, wardrobes and cupboards, the Tojo collection also includes shelving and sideboards. One model that has recently made design history is the Tojo Solo. This simple module is just 70 cm wide and 35 cm tall – but what can be constructed on the basis of this building block is extraordinary.

Without any tools, Tojo Solo can be used to make solid structures of different heights and widths, all according to the individual customer’s wishes. The elements are simply slotted together horizontally and vertically to create a stable and visually appealing structure. Tojo Solo’s potential configurations are determined by the number of building blocks and can be extended as needed, so the possibilities are virtually endless. The shelving unit grows along with the demands upon it and can be expanded to suit individual requirements.

The Tojo Stau is a recent innovation. Like Tojo Solo, this purist sideboard was designed by Bastian Prieler. It can be erected in the living room, dining room or hallway, and offers plenty of space for everyday items. The sideboard’s understated appearance ensures that it makes a good complement to any existing furnishings without upsetting the balance of the room. The doors can be opened using a recessed handle cut into the top, accentuating the minimalist look of the piece.

Behind the piece of furniture, made of MDF, lies the ingenious Tojo principle: as a piece of flat-pack furniture with optimised components, the main body can be assembled and disassembled by one person without any tools. Tools are only needed to attach the hinges. Disassembly in preparation for a house move is just as quick as assembly.

With its designs and the principle behind them, Tojo captures the spirit of the age: aesthetically pleasing, sustainably produced and cleverly thought-out pieces of furniture that can be assembled in moments or expanded quickly and easily using individual components. What’s more, it’s all “Made in Germany”.