Santamaria Stool/Storage

Santamaria Stool/Storage

Santamaria Stool/Storage is an innovative dual-purpose furniture piece that masterfully combines traditional Filipino craftsmanship with contemporary design sensibilities. Drawing inspiration from the Tingkop baskets of the Tagbanwa people, an ancient ethnic group from central and northern Palawan, Philippines, this versatile piece serves both as a functional stool and storage container. The design, which earned a Bronze A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category, features an intricate weaving pattern that pays homage to indigenous Filipino craft while incorporating modern elements such as houndstooth and chevron patterns. Standing at 527mm in height with a diameter of 343mm, the piece is constructed using powder-coated metal for its frame and PE plastic for the weaving, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. This innovative material choice represents a contemporary interpretation of traditional palm leaf weaving, ensuring durability and weather resistance while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the original inspiration. The design successfully addresses the challenge of adapting traditional basket proportions to functional seating requirements, demonstrating exceptional attention to detail in its execution. Created under the direction of designer Ito Kish with assistance from Lawrence Pontillas, this piece exemplifies the fusion of cultural preservation and modern functionality, representing a significant contribution to contemporary Filipino design that bridges traditional craftsmanship with modern materials and manufacturing techniques.

furniture design, Filipino craftsmanship, dual-purpose storage, outdoor furniture, traditional weaving, contemporary interpretation

— Adam Dawson

CITATION : "Adam Dawson. 'Santamaria Stool/Storage.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/santamaria-stool-storage?E=449813 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"