FiberFlax: A Sustainable Stool Design

Introducing a Versatile and Eco-Friendly Furniture Piece

The inspiration for the FiberFlax stool came from the desire to create a new eco-friendly composite material that could replace fiberglass in furniture construction. Francesco Frulio aimed to develop a material that could be produced with local, sustainable materials from the Sardinian craft tradition. In a world where the impact of design on the planet is increasingly important, this stool represents a step towards a more sustainable future.

What sets the FiberFlax stool apart is the use of a bio-composite material called FiberFlax, developed by Francesco Frulio. This composite is made from flax, wool felt, and a sustainable resin made of wood pulp and recycled oils. Despite being environmentally friendly, FiberFlax has the same mechanical properties and strength as fiberglass, making it a versatile and durable material for furniture design.

The legs of the stool are made from okume wood, a material known for its high resistance to moisture. This wood is commonly used in the marine industry for its ability to withstand harsh conditions, making it an ideal choice for furniture that may be exposed to moisture.

The manufacturing process used for the FiberFlax stool is VARTM (Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding), a technique borrowed from the aerospace and automotive industries. This process involves applying a vacuum to the mold, creating a pressure differential that pushes the resin from its container to impregnate the dry fabrics. This technique ensures that the fabric absorbs only the necessary amount of resin, minimizing waste.

The FiberFlax stool has a height of 400mm, a width of 420mm, and a depth of 380mm. Its seat features a shell-like shape, slightly inclined on the back to provide a comfortable sitting position. The wool felt positioned between the layers of flax in the composite material not only adds warmth to the seat but also gives it a wood-like texture.

The development of the FiberFlax stool began in May 2013 in Alghero, Sardinia, where the material based on flax and wool was studied, developed, and tested. The first prototypes for the application of this material to furniture pieces were created in Milan and completed in April 2014.

Francesco Frulio's research for the FiberFlax stool involved exploring different types of materials, ultimately choosing flax, wool felt, and a specific type of ecological resin. The thickness of the bio-composite seat was carefully researched and tested to ensure sufficient strength while considering the weight of the stool for shipping purposes.

Overcoming challenges was an integral part of the design process for the FiberFlax stool. Finding the right natural materials that could deliver the desired mechanical properties was a significant challenge. Additionally, adapting a manufacturing technique used in the aerospace industry for furniture production using the bio-composite material posed another obstacle. However, through innovation and perseverance, Francesco Frulio successfully created a stool that combines tradition and modernity in perfect harmony.

The FiberFlax stool is a testament to the possibilities of sustainable design. By using local, eco-friendly materials and innovative manufacturing techniques, Francesco Frulio has created a piece of furniture that not only looks beautiful but also contributes to a better world.

Image Credits: Francesco Frulio Industrial Design, 2016

Awards and Accolades: The FiberFlax stool was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2016. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The FiberFlax stool's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contributes to a better world.