Dezeen Magazine

Table and stools based on architectural cross vaults by Graft Object

Seoul design studio Graft Object's Arch Bundle collection features a table and pair of stools that reference architectural vaulting (+ slideshow).

Arch Bundle by Graft Object

The studio referred to cross vaulting – also known as double-barrel or groin vaulting – to design the pieces, which are made from a wood-fibre and resin composite called Valchromat.

"The structural functionality of an intersected vault is not only useful for spanning architectural elements, but also to support people," said Graft Object which designed the collection as part of its ongoing Furniture as Architecture project.

Arch Bundle by Graft Object

Both tables and stools have square tops that rest on four legs, arranged to form a cross shape in plan. Each of the legs are made from a single panel with a segment cut out, forming a semi-circular opening when paired with the support opposite.

Arch Bundle by Graft Object

"Here, the apron and legs are combined into a single structural element, the vault," said Graft Object. "With this vault-structure we were able to keep the form comparatively slender at the bottom while retaining the capacity to support heavy loads."

Arch Bundle by Graft Object

"Structural strength and a sense of architectural aesthetics are achieved simultaneously in this design," the studio added.

The stools can be stacked the corners of the tabletop when not use, create the effect of a miniature vaulted corridor when arranged around the sides of the table. Stools can also be arranged alongside one another to create a bench.

Arch Bundle by Graft Object

Architecture also informed Jaime Hayón's collection of furniture that referenced the curved structural elements of Le Corbusier's buildings, while architect David Chipperfield designed a set of bronze and steel cabinets that referred to the Ionic columns of Greek architecture.

Photography is by Graft Object.