Tomokazu Furui is a woodworker based in the mountain town of Kyotamba, Kyoto Prefecture. Before pursuing woodcraft, he worked in wildlife ecology, spending his days walking through forests and mountains. This experience deepened his fascination with trees and the distinctive qualities of wood. He later studied woodworking and furniture making in Gifu before establishing his own practice in Kyoto.

Furui creates trays and plates that balance everyday practicality with the natural beauty of their materials. Working with woods such as cherry, walnut, and chestnut, he considers the grain, strength, and individual character of each piece. He shapes and finishes the surfaces with planes and other edged tools, producing a lasting smoothness while preserving subtle traces of the making process. The result is quiet, functional tableware that allows the warmth of the wood to remain fully present.