Spring Stool: A Playful and Inviting All-Wood Cantilever Bar Stool

An Innovative Design by Andrew Cheng

The inspiration for the Spring Stool came from Cheng's fascination with materials and his desire to challenge conventional construction methods. The stool is made up of three parts: a plywood seat, dowel legs, and a third solid wood piece that connects the two. The cantilever structure of the stool was designed from scratch, with each individual part serving a functional and structural purpose.

With playfulness and comfort in mind, the Spring Stool features a plywood seat and tilted dowel legs. The gravity center is awkwardly pushed to the front, creating a sense of wonder as to whether the stool can truly hold weight. The changing direction of the grain in the integrated solid wood and plywood gives the stool a subtle yet distinctive character.

One of the unique properties of the Spring Stool is its springiness. The combination of the plywood seat and dowel legs provides an extra level of comfort and flexibility. Additionally, the solid wood front edge of the stool offers a soft touch for the back of the knees, enhancing the overall seating experience.

The production process for the Spring Stool involves the use of CNC technology to create the solid wood piece that connects the seat and legs. This ensures precision and consistency in the construction of each stool. The cantilever design required extensive experimentation and study of the joints to provide sufficient strength and stability.

Designed for everyday use, the Spring Stool is suitable for both home and indoor public spaces. Its unique cantilever construction not only provides physical comfort but also adds a sense of playfulness to any environment. The stool challenges the notion of trust and encourages interaction and engagement.

The Spring Stool project began in September 2014 and was first exhibited at Salone del Mobile in April 2015. Throughout the design process, Cheng faced numerous challenges in constructing the cantilever design. Multiple prototypes were built to determine the best way to join the different parts and ensure the stool's structural integrity. The Spring Stool is currently in the production phase.

The Spring Stool has been recognized for its innovative design and practicality. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2016. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Spring Stool's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contribute to a better world.

Photo credit: Rona Lee