“Hackability of the Stool” by Daisuke Motogi
Architect Daisuke Motogi's thought-provoking project and exhibition, "Hackability of the Stool," unravel an intriguing exploration of possibilities for Alvar Aalto's iconic Stool 60, crafted in 1933, which has retained its significance through continual production.
In 2019, Motogi and his innovative lab, DDAA, embarked on this groundbreaking venture. Tasked with creating a space for startups and needing around 150 stools for an expansive event, the community was invited to deliberate the stool's potential functions. Ideas converged during a workshop, birthing the concept of a versatile stool. Rather than crafting a new product, DDAA Lab chose evolution over invention, selecting Artek’s Stool 60. Esteemed for its wooden craftsmanship, ease of assembly, and stackability, Stool 60 became the canvas for their exploration.
Out of over 400 concepts, 100 modifications emerged, initially showcased in 2020 through an online exhibition on Motogi's Instagram—a presentation that captivated Artek's attention. Motogi and his team manually transformed Stool 60, focusing on functionality, shape, and adaptability. Beginning with household item integrations, the hacks evolved to incorporate sports equipment or pet habitats, placing user experience at the forefront.
The exhibition displays stools metamorphosed into charming sculptures, crafted by adding elements that transform them into reading lights, clothes racks, mirrors, and whimsical domestic aids like bins and ironing boards—an homage to the beauty of everyday tasks.
Following presentations in China and Japan, Artek collaborated with Motogi to share this ingenious project with a broader European design audience. "Hackability of the Stool" debuted at Dropcity during Milan Design Week in April, later gracing the Vitra Campus during Art Basel in June. Simultaneously coinciding with London Design Festival, the exhibition adorns the Vitra and Artek Tramshed showroom in Shoreditch throughout September-October 2023.
Source: https://www.artek.fi/en/stories/friendly-alterations-hackability-of-the-stool-by-daisuke-motogi
