In a world where technology often steals the spotlight, the Fold Stool by industrial designer Vivian Chen from Durham, North Carolina, shines with its simplicity and elegance. This wooden stool, devoid of any technological gimmicks, transforms its appearance throughout the day purely through the interplay of light. Chen’s innovative design is inspired by the simple act of folding paper, demonstrating how light and form can work together to create an object that not only serves a functional purpose but also engages with its environment in a dynamic way.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designer: Vivian Chen
Product: Fold Stool
Location: Durham, North Carolina
Material: Locally Sourced Hardwood
Photography: Vivian Chen
The Fold Stool takes cues from a folded piece of paper, a seemingly uncomplicated source of inspiration. When Chen experimented with paper, she noticed how folds altered its form, casting light in surprising ways. This observation led her to design a stool that mirrors this interaction of light and shadow. The stool features tripod legs and a multi-faceted top, with each element crafted to evolve as light shifts across its surfaces, creating a visual spectacle that captivates the viewer.
Chen’s design does not settle for being a mere static object; instead, it lives and breathes with the changing light throughout the day. Each angle of the stool is intentionally designed to transform with varying light intensities, making it a centerpiece that commands attention. The Fold Stool challenges perceptions of everyday objects, inviting us to see how even the most mundane pieces can possess unique personalities and unexpected beauty.
Functionality meets artistry in the Fold Stool, as Chen’s philosophy highlights the blend of utility with an endearing character. Stools are often seen as quick, reliable seating solutions, and the Fold Stool embodies this practicality. Its angular legs smoothly connect through the faceted top via precise mortises, reflecting both structural integrity and craftsmanship. This meticulous attention to detail showcases the durability and versatility of the stool, which is available in two heights and can be adapted to suit varying spatial needs.
Crafted from locally sourced hardwood, Chen’s stool emphasizes sustainability and quality. The materials enhance the stool’s natural beauty, allowing it to seamlessly integrate into various settings while still standing out due to its distinctive design. The Fold Stool is not just furniture; it’s an object of intrigue and discussion, highlighting how thought-provoking design can elevate everyday interactions with space and form.
Vivian Chen’s Fold Stool challenges the notion of static furniture, proving that with thoughtful design, even a simple wood stool can delight and surprise. The stool serves its practical purpose while sparking conversations about the relationship between design, light, and space. This blend of aesthetic charm and functionality encourages us to reconsider the objects we often take for granted in our environments, asking us to see the art in practicality. To explore more about Vivian Chen and her innovative designs, her portfolio is available online for those curious to see more of her work.
