Ydin Stool: A Sustainable and Innovative Furniture Design

Combining Concrete and Wood in a Scandinavian-inspired Stool

The Ydin Stool sets itself apart with its easy assembly process, requiring no special tools. The four identical feet can be placed in any order, and the concrete seat acts as the keystone, ensuring stability and strength. The feet are crafted from scrap wood sourced from a stairs manufacturer, making use of sustainable materials. These feet are easily machined using traditional woodworking techniques and finished with a protective oil coating.

The seat of the Ydin Stool is moulded from durable fiber-reinforced UHP Concrete, providing a lasting and sturdy foundation. The precise dimensions of the seat's center hole are achieved through 3D printing, ensuring a perfect fit during assembly. With only five dissociable parts, the Ydin Stool can be flat packed and shipped efficiently, further contributing to its sustainability.

One of the main challenges in the design process was developing the technical and formal aspects of the assembly. The positioning of the wooden feet and the interlocking mechanism required careful consideration to achieve both functionality and aesthetics. Despite these challenges, the Ydin Stool successfully combines craftsmanship with innovative design.

The Ydin Stool's unique properties and sustainable design have garnered recognition in the design community. In 2014, it was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill.

With its Scandinavian-inspired design, sustainable materials, and innovative assembly system, the Ydin Stool is a testament to the possibilities of combining concrete and wood in furniture design. Franck Divay's creation showcases the beauty of simplicity, functionality, and sustainability.