Emre Kayganacı's XX Stool: A Multifunctional Masterpiece

Revolutionizing Small Space Living with Innovative Design

Emre Kayganacı's inspiration for the XX Stool came from a deep understanding of user needs, particularly those living in small spaces. Through extensive research and interaction with students and the elderly living in compact areas, Kayganacı identified a need for more seating, small tables, and storage. The XX Stool was born out of these requirements, combining all three elements in a simplistic yet innovative way.

What sets the XX Stool apart is its unique ability to bring together completely different functions in a simple and innovative way. The stool not only provides seating but also serves as a side table and a storage space for books. Designed for small spaces, it collapses for easy storage. The simple XX design allows the stool to be light yet stable, and aesthetically pleasing.

The XX Stool's realization is as simple as its design. It requires only 8 screws and 6 bolts & nuts, with 4 U braces used and 4 cubes to secure the legs. Kayganacı used 12mm birch plywood with satin varnish and added 3mm steels at the top and bottom to add weight and increase stability. The stool's dimensions are 386.000mm x 350.000 mm x 630.000mm, making it a perfect fit for small spaces.

The stool's interaction is straightforward and user-friendly. It can be easily collapsed and reopened due to the light materials used. Despite its lightness, the structure provides excellent stability when standing. The stool's height, higher than usual stools and chairs, allows it to function as a side table. The X-shaped legs can be used as a storage space for books, making this design a three-in-one solution.

The project, which started in February 2016 in London, was completed in May 2016 and exhibited at the degree show the same month. The design's underlying research began with an article about the effects of increasing population on living spaces. Kayganacı's research included questionnaires with people living in small spaces, leading to the realization that existing designs were not 'small' enough and lacked multifunctionality. The design challenges were overcome by focusing on creating a simple and stable structure for the legs, eventually leading to the collapsible design.

Emre Kayganacı's XX Stool is a testament to the designer's ability to understand user needs and translate them into a functional, aesthetically pleasing design. The stool was awarded Silver in the A' Furniture Design Award in 2017, a testament to its innovative design and functionality. This design is a perfect example of how innovative thinking can transform everyday objects into multifunctional masterpieces.