The Elka Stool, an exploration by Industrial Design student Oscar Pipson of organic transitional shapes.
Oscar Pipson is a talented Wellington, New Zealand based Industrial Design student. For the Salone Satellite 2014, he wanted to design a piece of furniture that fully exploits the qualities and opportunities of computer-aided manufacturing.
Focusing on simplicity along with flowing curves, the Elka Stool grew out of a design study that explores organic transitional forms using a multi-axis CNC machine. This beautifully designed piece of furniture is characterized by subtle details of smooth curves and transitions combined with sharp lines. This deliberate combination creates a strong contrast within its overall design. Oscar Pipson used European beech wood, which was reinforced with steel pins.
The New Zealand based Industrial Design student said:
“My investigations explored how multi-axis CNC machining could create a stool that was strong but svelte, that could stand tall, without horizontal supports. I was extremely interested in the way we reinforce materials like concrete and sought to utilise the accuracy of CNC machining to reinforce wood in a similar fashion. The complexity of form that CNC allowed me to achieve, helped to create the illusion that Elka’ is machined from a single piece of wood, whilst still highlighting the role each part plays.”
Elka chair – furniture design by Oscar Pipson.Finest workmanship – close up of the back of the chair.The Elka Stool, an exploration of organic transitional shapes.
