Osso: Where Tradition Meets Sculptural Innovation in Seating

Wongsun Yoo’s chair fuses Oriental architecture and ergonomic artistry

Drawing inspiration from the balance and proportion of traditional Oriental architecture, Osso stands out with its sculptural silhouette and precise craftsmanship. The chair’s back is conceived as a second façade, where horizontal components interlace like the bones of a spine, giving the design its name. This thoughtful integration of architectural and anatomical references creates a harmonious blend of tradition and nature, making Osso more than just a seat—it becomes a statement piece within any interior.

Osso distinguishes itself through its innovative joinery and structural rhythm. Instead of relying on bulky materials, the chair’s curved beams and cross-bracing structure provide strength while maintaining a light, open aesthetic. The concave seat is ergonomically contoured to support the human body, reducing pressure points and enhancing comfort. The unique gap between the double columns at the back seamlessly accommodates the horizontal elements, reinforcing both the chair’s stability and its visual harmony.

The realization of Osso bridges advanced technology and artisanal craftsmanship. The design utilizes CNC-machined timber planks, ensuring geometric precision and modularity. Each component is individually stained and finished in collaboration with French cabinetmaker Brimbois, employing time-honored techniques that highlight the wood’s natural grain beneath a modern black stain. This fusion of digital fabrication and traditional finishing elevates the chair’s tactile and visual appeal.

Functionally, Osso’s three-legged, open-back frame emphasizes negative space, creating a sense of lightness and openness. The subtly curved seat appears to float above the frame, enhancing both comfort and the chair’s sculptural presence. This interplay of light and shadow transforms Osso from mere furniture into a refined architectural statement, enriching the surrounding environment with depth and dynamism.

Extensive research underpins Osso’s ergonomic and aesthetic achievements. Virtual reality prototyping and feedback from design professionals at Paris Design Week informed refinements such as adjustable timber toes and a detachable upholstered seat plate. Locally sourced ash wood and sustainable practices further reinforce the chair’s commitment to heritage-driven design and environmental responsibility.

Osso’s meticulous joinery, inspired by the natural interlocking of bones, required close collaboration between designer and craftsman to achieve its seamless, minimal silhouette. Each joint is intentionally exposed with rounded edges, celebrating the artistry and precision involved. The chair’s recognition with a Silver A' Furniture Design Award in 2025 attests to its remarkable blend of technical innovation and artistic excellence.

Osso exemplifies how contemporary design can honor tradition while pushing the boundaries of form and function, offering a timeless addition to modern living spaces and a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful craftsmanship.