Project The 03 . Industrial Stool is a space-saving furniture piece designed to combine utilitarian durability with refined craftsmanship. Created in London in 2016, the project reimagines the classic workshop stool by focusing on smart geometry and material contrast. The design prioritizes efficiency, offering a robust seating solution that functions seamlessly whether in use or stored away.

Challenge The primary challenge was to create a stacking system that remained stable without damaging the materials over time. Traditional stacking stools often suffer from wear and tear where the legs grind against the seat surface of the unit below. The goal was to engineer a mechanism that allowed for vertical storage while absolutely preserving the fine detail of the wooden seat and preventing the "wobble" often associated with stacked furniture.

Design I developed a precision-engineered solution featuring three rebates (cutouts) on the edge of the wooden seat, specifically shaped to guide and host the legs of the stool stacked above. To solve the issue of wear, a round metal plate is installed directly beneath the wooden sheet. This plate is slightly larger than the diameter of the rebate, creating a durable steel "landing pad." This ensures that the legs rest securely on the metal sub-structure rather than the wood, protecting the finish from pressure marks.

Results & Impact The result is a highly stable, stackable stool where form and function are perfectly integrated. The clever interaction between the wooden rebates and the underlying metal plate allows for repeated stacking without scratching or ruining the fine timber details. This technical innovation extends the product's lifespan, making it an ideal choice for flexible spaces like cafes, studios, or apartments where floor space is at a premium.