16/10/2026
How much goes into a simple stool?
Behind The Honest Stool lies a world of choices, experiments and craftsmanship. Every detail matters — from comfort and construction to material and durability.
Discover the story behind the object at Dutch Design Week 2026, and see how I design and make at NerfEcht Designs. DDW @ Plan-B powered by Number42 Dutch Design Week | DDW
The Honest Stool — Making the Invisible Visible.
Vist NerfEcht Designs and LOOK CLOSER PLAN-B during the DDW2026.
IT STARTS WITH THE USER
I wanted to create a stool that remains comfortable to sit on. Many stools create uncomfortable pressure points over time by mainly supporting the sit bones.
So I started with the seat, not the appearance.
After several prototypes, I settled on a five-degree slope. This small angle distributes support across a larger area, avoiding concentrated pressure points.
A seemingly small detail became the starting point for the entire design.
ONE CHOICE SHAPES THE NEXT
The five-degree angle became a guiding principle throughout the stool, connecting the seat, panels and legs into one coherent design.
But every design choice has consequences: changing the form also changes how the joints carry the load.
A choice in form directly affects construction.
DESIGN IS ABOUT MAKING CHOICES
Prototypes showed that mortise-and-tenon joints offered the strongest solution, increasing the glued surface and overall strength.
Crossbars added stability while creating an opportunity for an overlapping joint detail.
Form, function, construction and material are interconnected. One choice often leads to the next.
THE RIGHT SEAT HEIGHT
Using The Furnishing Handbook by Frida Ramstedt, I researched ergonomic proportions to determine the ideal seat height and leg length.
Even the simplest details begin with research and a conscious choice.
THE WAY I WORK
The Honest Stool reflects my approach at NerfEcht Designs, where design, engineering and craftsmanship come together to create thoughtful, functional furniture.
Whether you have a clear idea or are just exploring possibilit
