Didi Ng Wing Yin, an acclaimed designer from Helsinki, recently presented his innovative collection, 'In Between Wood and Fire,' at the prestigious Spazio Rosanna Orlandi during Milan Design Week. This exhibition highlighted Ng's distinctive approach to furniture and lighting, emphasizing the raw beauty and inherent characteristics of wood. The collection, comprising five bespoke pieces, showcases his mastery in transforming unconventional materials into functional art. His work challenges traditional perceptions of timber, revealing a profound appreciation for its texture and form, while also incorporating playful and thoughtful elements that reflect his evolving design philosophy.
The 'In Between Wood and Fire' Collection: A Fusion of Craft and Innovation
At the heart of Milan Design Week, from April 20 to 26, 2026, designer Didi Ng Wing Yin unveiled his latest series, 'In Between Wood and Fire,' at the revered Galleria Rossana Orlandi. This collection, which forms a significant part of Ng's recent creative output, pushes the boundaries of material exploration. Known for his experimental timber designs, Ng meticulously crafted each of the five pieces by employing techniques of splitting, carving, and charring 10-by-10-centimetre blocks of solid-sawn construction lumber. This choice of material is particularly notable, as such wood is typically avoided in furniture making due to its propensity for cracking and warping. However, Ng's expertise in precise splitting allowed him to achieve remarkable stability in the wood.
A standout piece from the collection is the 'Rocket' coffee table, distinguished by its textured surface and whimsical flame-inspired feet, meticulously crafted from spruce and pine. The table's unique bumpy texture was achieved through the skilled application of axes, chisels, froes, and gouging tools. The feet are imbued with a striking ombre red hue using ink, while the natural wood was charred black with a blow torch and then painted to accentuate this dramatic effect. The tabletop features two circular indentations, ingeniously designed as small receptacles for round fruits like apples or oranges, adding a touch of humor and functionality. Ng elaborated on this, stating, "This collection takes a more lighthearted approach than my previous endeavors." He further shared his enduring fascination with fire, noting, "My creations have consistently drawn inspiration from the practice of splitting firewood for saunas in Finland, so I always strive for fire to play a role in my designs."
The 'Rocket' side table echoes the coffee table's design, featuring the same fiery feet and a robust body with a recessed top, also expertly charred. Another notable piece is 'Pith,' a tall floor lamp crafted from spruce and pine. This lamp showcases a delicate, shard-like silhouette, crowned with a small spherical lightbulb, and its charred surface is finished with a protective lacquer. The collection is completed by a pair of 'Pith' spruce stools, which, like the other items, are carefully carved to highlight the wood's fractured qualities, allowing the natural grain to emerge through the black ink application. Ng observed, "The black ink cannot fully penetrate the wood's indentations, creating an appealing visual texture." Ng, a solo practitioner and a member of the nine-person Minestrone Workshop in Vallila, has steadily built his reputation in Helsinki's vibrant design community. The workshop is also slated to design the exhibition for this year's Habitare furniture fair in Finland, where Ng previously exhibited his works in 2023. His evolution as a designer is evident in his shifting focus: "I used to be extremely meticulous about the precision and refinement of techniques," he reflected. "However, over the past few years, I have started to explore beyond mere technical proficiency. I am continually considering how to maximize the material presentation of wood and allow its inherent qualities to speak for themselves." He concluded, "I experience greater freedom without numerous practical constraints and have renewed my conviction in craftsmanship." Ng's innovative contributions to design were further recognized when he was honored as the emerging designer of the year at the 2024 Dezeen Awards.
Didi Ng Wing Yin's 'In Between Wood and Fire' collection prompts us to reconsider our relationship with materials and design. His innovative use of construction lumber and the deliberate incorporation of its 'imperfections' encourage a deeper appreciation for the raw and natural. As consumers, we are often drawn to polished, flawless finishes, yet Ng's work beautifully demonstrates that character and artistry can emerge from embracing the unconventional. His playful approach, seen in the flame-shaped feet and integrated fruit bowls, reminds us that design can be both functional and delightful. Ultimately, Ng's philosophy — to let the material speak for itself and to find freedom beyond rigid technical constraints — serves as an inspiring call for creativity and authenticity in the design world.