TRES: A Stool that Connects People

Designer: Carolina Palombo Píriz

TRES was born out of the necessity for a functional and aesthetically pleasing stool in an architectural and industrial design office. It serves as a tool to foster a colloquial behavior and encourage positive interactions among individuals. The number three, symbolizing artistic expression, sociability, sympathy, and impartiality, inspired the design, reflecting optimism, happiness, and joy of life.

What sets TRES apart is its unique construction. The stool features a simple steel structure that joins the wooden body, creating a striking contrast with the softness of the wool felt seat. The three legs, meticulously lathed to achieve different sections from top to bottom, stand independently from the wooden body, providing stability and visual appeal.

The production of TRES involves the use of high-quality materials. The wooden body is made from poplar tree wood, treated with a polish finish. The metal structure consists of 10 and 5 mm wires, available in satin chrome or matte black powder-coated steel finish. The seat is upholstered with handcrafted Merino wool felt sourced from Uruguayan sheep.

With dimensions of 750mm in height, 350mm in width, and 350mm in depth, TRES offers a comfortable and visually appealing seating option. Its unique structure and upholstered felt seat make it stand out from traditional stools, providing both comfort and elegance.

The design process for TRES involved extensive research and development. The aim was to create a seat that fosters connections between people, considering the posture and behavior of individuals when using a stool. Numerous sketches were made, and 3D models, handmade and digital renderings, as well as a prototype, were created before production commenced. The selection of the upholstery felt involved the creation of several samples, with two ultimately chosen for the final product.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was ensuring that the legs of the stool appeared to stand independently without any visible joining structure. This required careful craftsmanship and attention to detail. The use of handcrafted felt added a human touch to the production process, resulting in a product that is both detailed and loved.

TRES was developed in Uruguay by Carolina Palombo Píriz, an industrial designer and architect. The project aimed to utilize local materials and Uruguayan craftsmanship, showcasing the country's talent and expertise.

TRES has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2017 in the Furniture Design category. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. TRES stands out for its integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive experiences, ultimately contributing to a better world.