Words Studio Mariano
Images Jar Concengco (Hex Stool)
Editing The Kanto team
The Hex Stool began as an ambitious piece developed by a group of students for a furniture design competition in 2014. Back then, under a different name and concept, it was envisioned as a two-piece stool and storage piece that aimed to address both multifunctionality and sustainability. With the theme centered on “thinking forward,” the group developed a hexagonal design that drew from the perceived stability and modernity of the shape. As a response to fast furniture, it was imagined as an enduring piece built with a modern Filipino sensibility and durability. The idea did not make it past the preliminary judging round, and at the time, I thought that was the end of it.
A decade later, the concept found new life, revived alongside my long-held dream of becoming a furniture designer. I had previously worked as a furniture designer but had never developed my own pieces, which was my personal criterion for truly considering myself one. Among the several sketches and ideas I had on file, the Hex stood out not only for its potential as a concept but also for being the most realistic to prototype and develop. With the blessing of my former groupmates, I reworked the design into its current iteration.
The hexagon remained at the core of the redevelopment. It was, after all, the heart of the piece. Even in the stool’s initial conception, the shape had already opened up unique design opportunities. It only made sense to explore it further.
Departing from the original two-piece stool and storage concept, which used materials such as reclaimed wood, plywood, and natural rattan splits woven in a solihiya pattern, the Hex Stool was reimagined in a single material: solid tanguile wood. This simplification allowed for a more focused and cohesive design, drawing from both the geometry of the hexagon and the natural characteristics of the wood. Instead of designing the seat and legs as separate parts that were simply attached, I allowed the hexagon to guide the entire piece. Each element grew directly from the shape itself.
I began reaching out to workshops that could not only produce a finished custom-made piece, but also help refine the idea through prototyping and creative and technical input. Lamana immediately understood what I was looking for. From our first meeting, the connection felt natural. The discussion flowed easily, and trust was established right away.
The workshop tour was equally inspiring, offering a glimpse of the possibilities through the pieces in progress. I was also fortunate to meet the craftsmen who bring each design to life. Once the details were finalized, Lamana took the lead in producing the very first prototype.
Lamana and I each spent time testing and experiencing the prototype before regrouping to share our insights. The initial version felt flat, heavy, and somewhat disjointed, which led to the introduction of slimmer legs and exposed joinery between the legs and seat. These adjustments resulted in a sleeker, more refined, and unified second prototype.
I later pitched the Hex Stool as part of the Lamana Originals collection. I took my shot and, thankfully, they took a chance on me. A dream fulfilled. Not only did I get to prototype and produce an original piece, but I also had the privilege of collaborating with a trusted name known for high-quality craftsmanship and remarkable people who made the entire journey deeply rewarding.
Far removed from the original competition entry, which tried to address too many concerns, the Hex Stool’s final form emerged from a simplification of function. Without the need to serve as a storage piece, it became simply a stool, resized and proportioned accordingly.
Free from intricate details and unnecessary embellishments, the Hex Stool developed into a sculptural piece that remains true to its material and form, conceived without strict adherence to any particular design style. Its geometric form reveals striking angles, corners, and edges from every perspective. What remains from the original concept is its intent to be a modern-day heirloom, designed and built to stand the test of time. •
