When compared to other forms of seating, such as lounge chairs or dining chairs or sofas, stools often tend to be seen as primarily utilitarian. But why shouldn’t stools play an integral role in the home, and why shouldn’t they exemplify all the things we love about thoughtful and innovative design? In fact, the stool’s identity, one that is pared down to just the essentials, has allowed many designers to transform them into something exciting and new. This week, we’re highlighting five stools that we simply cannot get enough of.

Pleasing from every possible angle, the Cluster Stool is an exceptional design, and we would expect nothing less from BassamFellows’ creative genius. Made entirely out of solid oak or walnut, Cluster magnificently showcases the beautiful, transcendent qualities of natural wood. While utilitarian in nature, the design is sculptural and intentional—the dip in the seat and the rounded taper of its four legs feels elegant and delicate, and each small detail serves a purpose. Low, sturdy, and stackable, Cluster is a simple, easy to move object for sitting on, and can be stacked neatly away without the need to be hidden—a design within a design. 

The OS Stool is the result of years of design inspiration, and numerous collaborations throughout Ole Schjøll’s career. The design idea has evolved over time, ultimately leading to a beautiful, functional and very durable stool—the epitome of ambitious craftsmanship and design. Light and refreshing, the stool works perfectly whether placed in lounge spaces, bedrooms, or casual dining areas. Crafted without any hardware, the seat and base are wrapped together with leather straps. Featuring a braided wicker cushion and bold, curved legs, Ole Schjøll's Stool combines both rustic and contemporary elements to create a modern classic.

Functionality and practicality are the driving forces behind the Pop Stool, which offers a contemporary yet playful edge wherever it finds itself. Designer duo Patrik Bengtsson and Pierre Sindre describe the inspiration and intention behind the piece: “The Pop stool is the continuation of our incipient series for the activity-based office. We’ve seen for ourselves the lack of a functional stool with a high seating level. This solid wooden stool is intended for sessions of varying length at a project table or bar counter." In addition to being height-adjustable, the wooden stool is compact and versatile, allowing it to fit exceptionally well into work settings, creative spaces, and commercial environments.