Alfredo Carreño Reul's Etabu: A Balancing Act in Furniture Design

Stackable Stools that Challenge Perception and Celebrate Engineering Precision

Alfredo Carreño Reul, the creative mind behind Etabu, believes in the power of surprise to stimulate creativity and open minds to endless possibilities. This philosophy is embodied in Etabu, a set of three stackable stools that, when stacked, seem to lack balance. This illusion is a result of careful engineering, with each stool achieving perfect equilibrium through the exact balance of its torques. The design's name, Etabu, is a combination of 'E' for equilibrium and 'tabu', a short word for stool.

The Etabu stools are crafted from American red oak for the seat and legs, with nylon used for the support ring and the protection of the seat's piercing. This combination of materials not only ensures durability but also prevents wear and tear on the legs. Each stool measures 45 cm high by 35 cm, and when stacked, the set measures 90 cm high and 40 cm wide. The compact design makes Etabu ideal for space-saving needs.

The interaction with Etabu is straightforward and user-friendly. The identical stools are stacked by placing the leg with the ring inside the seat's perforation. This simple operation can be performed in any order, making Etabu an easily understandable and simple-to-use piece of furniture.

The Etabu project began in September 2016 and was completed in January 2017. The finished design was exhibited at the Franz Mayer Museum in Mexico City. The design process involved extensive research focusing on simple manufacturing, space-saving for small areas, and creating additional seating for gathering spaces. The most significant challenge was achieving the perfect balance between the stools, requiring meticulous calculations and material selection.

Etabu is more than a set of stackable stools. It is a design that challenges perceptions, combines simplicity with practicality, and showcases the beauty of engineering precision. The use of materials like plastic and wood creates a perfect combination to avoid friction that could harm the stools. Designed for small spaces, Etabu maintains simple manufacturing and offers an affordable solution for clients. Above all, Etabu aims to surprise, opening people's minds and unconsciously boosting their creativity.

In recognition of its innovative design and exceptional execution, Etabu was awarded the Silver A' Furniture Design Award in 2017. This prestigious award is given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. Etabu, with its strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, indeed introduces positive feelings, amazement, and wonder, living up to the high standards of the award.