Balanco: The Art of Balance in Design

Stackable Stools by Lisa Lai and Joel Wong: A Playful Blend of Function and Aesthetics

With the new norm of staying at home, especially in densely populated cities, finding peace and mental wellness can be challenging. Balanco, a series of multifaceted blocks, offers unlimited possibilities to arrange, position, and stack. The design requires significant patience and calmness to balance the blocks, making it a practical yet fun solution for friends and families to enjoy together. When not in use as play objects, Balanco doubles as stools and tables for both adults and children.

The unique properties of Balanco lie in its multifunctionality and the interactive experience it offers. The lightweight and solid structure makes it suitable and safe for young children, while the earth-tone felt finish invites a touch of nature into the home. The design is soft and comfortable to the touch, making it a delightful addition to any living space.

The technical specifications of Balanco are meticulously designed to cater to a wide range of users. The largest block measures 600mm x 450mm x 350mm, while the smallest block measures 350mm x 350mm x 350mm. The felt finishing and foam-based structure ensure the blocks are lightweight yet sturdy enough for adults to sit and stand on them.

The design process for Balanco started in October 2020 and was completed in December 2020. It was documented and exhibited as part of the HKTDC's programme in Hong Kong. The design intent was to deliver a design with a strong concept, through aesthetic simplicity. The challenge was to create a series of stackable furniture that is lightweight and safe for children, yet solid and strong for adults. This obstacle was overcome by experimenting with various materials, details, and manufacturing methods.

Balanco was awarded Silver in A' Furniture Design Award in 2022. This prestigious award is rewarded to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.