In 2024, I began experimenting with bold, sculptural forms—exploring the tension between heavy and light. I was particularly interested in the contrast between chunky, grounded legs and a razor-thin top edge that created a visually delicate silhouette. The result was a functional yet sculptural stool/side table, first prototyped in my workshop that same year.
To emphasize its graphic form, I finished the rock maple prototype in a bright, saturated yellow. Which was presented at Post Industrial Bliss exhibition, Melbourne Design Week 2024.
Following the exhibition, I collaborated with longtime partner collect.studio to refine the design for batch production. The most significant improvement was to the stool’s top: the original was produced in a single piece wood top, which is prone to warping , and strange grain direction. In the final version, the top is constructed from three separate wedge shape pieces, assembled like pizza slices. This not only looks better, it is stronger, and also allows us to use offcut timbers from other projects, minimising waste.
Often in the development between prototype and production, the initial design integrity gets watered down to assist in production realities. In the case of this stool, it improved. The project got better and better thru development, to a really rock solid, visually awesome final product, made from wood saved from waste.
The initial production run includes 10 vibrant colourways, along with natural walnut and oak finishes. A standout in the collection is a special multi-species version—crafted from oak, walnut, and maple—assembled in a harmonious balance of tone and texture.
Produced by: collect.studio
Available through: Project Project, Australia
