Skali by Mustasha Musa is a thoughtful reimagination of the monobloc

Taking a natural approach to monobloc chairs, Mustasha Musa brings her sophisticated touch to a piece in design that exists otherwise ubiquitously through Skali

Skali is a collection of furniture born out of a dynamic collaboration between Malaysia’s timber artisans at Kok Art and Craft Co. and visionary architect Mustasha Musa. Facilitated by the Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) through the TIMB3R Design Incubator Programme, this initiative connects local designers and architects with timber and furniture manufacturers to develop high-value Malaysian compositions, ready for international export. The first piece from the exciting Skali collection is a contemporary dining set, designed to capture the essence of and appreciation for everyday objects.

About the Skali collection

Put to use by people from all walks of life, the monobloc chair is a symbol of congregation and community. Skali’s concept beautifully merges an iconic cultural emblem with modern craftsmanship. By reimagining the humble monobloc chair in timber, Musa brings a refined and instinctive take to a design that’s seemingly overlooked. The monobloc is such a universal staple and is recognised just as much for its durability as its unpretentious nature.

The name Skali is derived from the Malay word “sekali”, meaning ‘together’. The denomination grounds the collection in Malaysian traditions that celebrate togetherness through shared meals and time spent with loved ones. Exploring timber as a material emphasises longevity and environmental awareness, while elevating a disposable plastic item into a piece with lasting value. This shift not only preserves the monobloc’s cultural quality but also gives it a swankily timeless appeal.

The handsome Skali dining ensemble is a blend of tasteful design and expert craft that reflects only the best of what Malaysian timber has to offer. Crafted from sustainably sourced local Nyatoh (Palaquium spp.), the dining set combines sleek, modern lines with organic warmth, making it the perfect centerpiece for any home.

Skali’s design emulates a delicate balance between form and function, featuring a solid wood dining table with elegantly tapered legs and a smooth, minimalist finish that highlights the natural grain of the timber. The accompanying chairs are modelled for comfort and style, featuring ergonomic contours that enhance the dining experience.

Skali is intentional in expressing appreciation to skilled artisans rather than opting for mass manufacturing. Musa employs an interesting paradigm that avoids waste and pollution by keeping production small-scale and building the collection, from the get-go, with a purpose of enduring through time.

For more information on Skali, please visit EM by Mustasha Musa