The Ane Stool: A Fusion of Simplicity and Complexity

Troy Backhouse's Award-Winning Design Marries Basic Geometry with Innovative Construction

The Ane stool is a remarkable piece of furniture, boasting a solid timber seat and a powder-coated steel frame. Its uniqueness lies in the use of multiple pieces of one shape of wood, positioned and cut in a dynamic way. The simple placement of three geometric circles allows the stool to be cut in such a way that it gives the appearance of a complex furniture piece, despite its relatively simple construction.

Originally conceived with a bent aluminium rectangular steel tube, the design evolved to incorporate timber for a softer visual finish. The stool's dimensions are height 525mm x width 420mm x depth x 450mm, making it a versatile piece for various spaces. The use of certified plantation timber not only adds to the stool's aesthetic appeal but also contributes to sustainable design practices.

One of the stool's key features is its interactive design. The seat is angled slightly higher at the back, drawing the user to a natural seated position. The timber struts roll over on each side and narrow with a circular cut towards the front, providing a comfortable sitting position whether the user's legs are to the front or one off to the side.

The Ane stool's design journey began with sketching in Australia in 2008, with early prototypes completed in Colombia. The final design was completed in Australia in 2013. The design process involved extensive research, particularly into the use of plantation or certified timber. The steel frame's thickness was carefully researched and tested to ensure sufficient strength while considering the stool's shipping viability due to weight.

The Ane stool has received prestigious recognition, winning the Platinum A' Furniture Design Award in 2015. This award recognizes world-class, exceptional, and highly innovative designs that showcase unmatched professionalism, contribute to societal wellbeing, and advance the boundaries of art, science, design, and technology. Troy Backhouse's Ane stool, with its harmonious blend of simplicity and complexity, truly embodies these values.