Copernico Stool

Copernico Stool

Copernico Stool is an innovative furniture design that exemplifies the harmonious fusion of geometric precision and organic curves, created by Chinese designer Kai Hu. This handcrafted seating solution, which earned the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category, represents a sophisticated interpretation of the less is more design philosophy, featuring three identical double-curved plywood components that ingeniously intersect to create a stable and visually striking structure. The design's distinctive composition employs ashtree veneers for the main structure with decorative teak veneer surfaces, assembled using milk-white glue, resulting in a piece that measures 305mm in width, 350mm in depth, and 390mm in height. The stool's construction methodology demonstrates exceptional material efficiency, utilizing 35 wood veneer pieces, each measuring 220 cm in length and 30 cm in width, arranged thoughtfully to minimize waste while maximizing structural integrity. Notable for its versatility in social and professional settings, particularly during creative brainstorming sessions, the stool allows users to sit comfortably in any direction on its triangular surface. The design's practical considerations extend beyond aesthetics, incorporating stackable components that facilitate efficient storage and transportation, while a carefully engineered central hole enhances stability. This piece, completed in Shanghai between November 2016 and January 2017, emerged from extensive research into handcrafted plywood furniture construction techniques, successfully addressing challenges of material selection, weather considerations, and assembly methods without industrial machinery.

furniture design, geometric architecture, handcrafted plywood, sustainable materials, ergonomic seating, contemporary furniture

— Adam Dawson