FlexSit: The Unstable and Ergonomic Stool

A Fun and Innovative Seating Solution for the Modern Lifestyle

FlexSit, designed by Xiying Bao and Minghao Luo, takes inspiration from tumbler toys and injects the concept of "Motion Seating" into a versatile stool.

FlexSit is not your ordinary stool. It is a rocking stool that offers a range of options and a fun seating experience for the home, office, or classroom. The design features a spherical bottom, providing an extremely different and interesting way of "unstable" sitting. This innovative approach to seating promotes active movement and engages the core muscles, contributing to a healthier sitting experience.

One of the key strengths of FlexSit is its modularity. Customers have the possibility of personal customization, allowing them to choose different pillars and bottoms to adjust the height and color of the stool. This flexibility ensures that FlexSit seamlessly integrates into any space and meets the needs of various users.

The design of FlexSit prioritizes both practicality and comfort. The bottom is made of PP with a PC layer wrapped outside, ensuring durability and stability. A metal counterweight core inside the bottom lowers the center of gravity, guaranteeing the stool's functionality. The pillar in the middle is crafted from solid wood, adding a touch of natural beauty to the design. The PP seat is covered with woven fabric, providing a comfortable and breathable seating surface.

FlexSit is not only visually appealing but also highly functional. Its ergonomic knitted top, solid wood pillar, and counterweight bottom can be easily assembled through screw threads. Users can sway and spin on FlexSit without the fear of falling off, actively stretching their lumbar and avoiding sedentary symptoms.

The design of FlexSit was not without its challenges. Engineering mechanics played a crucial role in finding the proper ratio and materials to ensure safety. The inclusion of a counterweight bottom was a significant breakthrough, effectively lowering the center of gravity and enhancing stability.

FlexSit was created as a response to the negative effects of prolonged sitting. Studies have shown that sitting for extended periods can have detrimental effects on our circulation, respiration, and posture. This flexible seating solution aims to create a learning and working environment that promotes flexibility, creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration.

The project to develop FlexSit started in November 2017 in Shanghai and was completed in December 2017. The design has been recognized for its excellence and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2019. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate outstanding technical and creative skills, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

FlexSit is a testament to the innovative and forward-thinking approach of designers Xiying Bao and Minghao Luo. Their creation offers a fresh perspective on seating, combining functionality, ergonomics, and fun. With its vibrant color options and customizable features, FlexSit is the perfect addition to any modern lifestyle.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Xiying Bao
Image Credits: Image #1: Creator, Xiying Bao, 2017 Image #2: Creator, Xiying Bao, 2017 Image #3: Creator, Xiying Bao, 2017 Image #4: Creator, Xiying Bao, 2017
Project Team Members: Xiying Bao Minghao Luo
Project Name: FlexSit
Project Client: Xiying Bao


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