The Hangzhou Stool is visually striking in spite of its inherent minimalist nature. Made out of thin sheets of bamboo veneers, the materials have been layered on top of each other in such a way that a tapered rainbow-like form is achieved. Or, as the designer puts it, "[L]ike the ripples on the water surface." The spaces between each sheet allow a flexibility when sat on. Thus, though the Hangzhou Stool looks like an uncomfortable perch at first, that couldn't be farther from the truth.
Designed by Beijing-based industrial designer Min Chen, the Hangzhou Stool is held together by a raw bamboo stick, which penetrates in the veneers beneath the arch. Completely contemporary, the Hangzhou Stool could nevertheless easily fit in with the existing decor of a traditional home.
Layered Bamboo Seating
The Hangzhou Stool by Min Chen Looks Like a Wooden Rainbow
Trend Themes
1. Layered Bamboo Furniture - The use of layered bamboo veneers in furniture design presents a sustainable and visually striking option for contemporary and traditional living spaces.
2. Minimalist Design - Minimalist design continues to be a popular trend in home decor, as demonstrated by the simple yet visually impactful Hangzhou Stool.
3. Flexible Seating - The use of spaces between layered bamboo veneers in the Hangzhou Stool provides a flexible and comfortable sitting experience, highlighting the potential for rethinking traditional seating design.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture - The furniture industry can benefit from incorporating sustainable and visually striking options such as layered bamboo veneers.
2. Interior Design - Minimalist design is a popular trend in interior design, and furniture pieces like the Hangzhou Stool offer a simple yet eye-catching addition to contemporary and traditional living spaces.
3. Materials Science - The use of layered bamboo veneers presents an opportunity within materials science for exploring sustainable and flexible materials with a range of potential applications beyond furniture design.