Concept and Inspiration
‘Metal for strength and lightness, rubber for comfort and efficiency, wood for touch and appearance.’ Quoting this throughout my inspiration process for this product was essential in order to focus on function with a sensibility towards materials but yet still allow the product to be current.

The function that I found I needed to address was producing a seat that fit into both outdoor and indoor environments and creating a portability towards the two hence the timber handles to easily carry the product. This was realised due to a trip to Turkey where I found establishments where men would sit on mini stools with rattan seating for hours socialising, both inside the establishment and outside. My aim was to keep the style of the stools but give them a fresh new look with modern materials which would even fit into the home. This was how the Sarma Stool (the Turkish word for wrapping) came to be.

Technical and Production
Scoubidou plastic threads were used to replace the old fashioned rattan weave, and a well thought out wrapping method was acquired. Plastic was used for comfort, European Oak handles were used for touch and appearance and metal was used for strength and lightness.

Measurements were decided after many trials adjusting a suitable height to easily reach down and carry the product, to sit on, or to prop yourself up. The frame was thought out so that it would physically and visually feel light, so that support would not be needed on the legs. The angles pointing away from the stool were so that the user would not feel restricted between the two handles. Detailing of the joining of the metal frame to the handles was purely for functional reasons to strengthen the grip of the handles on the frame.

Designed by Sebiha Macit

http://www.sebihamacit.com