Triad Tabouret by Mingbo Hou and Ruoyou Zhou

Triad Tabouret by Mingbo Hou and Ruoyou Zhou is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 A' Design Award d'Argent in Design de Mobilier Competition Category.

ArgentMobilier· 2025

Triad Tabouret

by Mingbo Hou and Ruoyou Zhou

Client: Mingbo Hou and Ruoyou Zhou

A' Design Award d'Argent Winner in Mobilier Category

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Verified Award Winner

Verify Award Status for #171667

View at A' Design Award Press Release Award Badge

Colors

The Design

About Triad Tabouret

Triad est un tabouret conçu avec une géométrie triangulaire offrant la stabilité tout en optimisant l'espace. Réalisé en tôles métalliques pliées et soudées, il présente une structure durable et une assise légèrement concave pour le confort. Sa forme légère facilite son déplacement, le rendant adapté à différents environnements. Ne nécessitant aucun assemblage, Triad est conçu pour une utilisation dans les maisons, les cafés et les espaces partagés. Son design géométrique garantit une efficience matérielle tout en conservant une approche pratique de l'assise.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award d'Argent

Triad Tabouret est lauréat de l'A' Design Award d'Argent, une reconnaissance énormément prestigieuse décernée à des designs haut de gamme, superbes et impressionnants. Les lauréats Argent sont des œuvres tout à fait brillantes et extrêmement créatives qui illustrent l'expertise, le talent et la perspicacité remarquables de leurs concepteurs. Triad Tabouret est censé être une œuvre merveilleuse, une vitrine de savoir-faire, remarquablement professionnelle et profondément innovante. Ce design lauréat de l'A' Design Award d'Argent est une invention très notable et admirée, qui sert l'art, la science, le design et la technologie et en repousse les limites. Triad Tabouret est une création très enviée qui éveille les désirs, apporte des sentiments positifs et suscite émerveillement et étonnement.

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: Triad is a thoughtfully designed stool that addresses the challenges of compact living by offering a stable, space-efficient, and visually refined seating solution. Inspired by triangular geometry, it blends structural strength with aesthetic appeal. The precisely angled metal sheets enhance durability, while the gently contoured seat improves ergonomic comfort. Its seamless triangular form ensures both stability and elegance, making it an ideal addition to modern interiors.
Dimensions & Packaging: Dimensions: W 350 mm × D 303 mm × H 450 mm
Material: Laser-cut steel
Weight: Approx. 2.5 kg
Assembly: Fully welded, no additional installation required
Tags: Minimalist design, triangular geometry, metal furniture, modern interior, ergonomic, space-saving, durable, sustainable, CNC machining, laser cutting
Production Technology: Triad is manufactured using laser-cut metal sheets, CNC bending techniques, and TIG welding assembly. It is available in various finishes and colors to complement different interior styles.
Design Challenge: The main challenges of this project included optimizing structural strength while minimizing material usage and maintaining the visual and functional harmony of the triangular form. Precision in metal fabrication was also crucial, particularly in CNC bending and welding, to ensure consistent angles. Through multiple prototype iterations and structural testing, the final design achieved a refined, stable, and visually striking form.
Research: This project integrates user experience research with material engineering analysis. The goal was to develop a stool that balances stability, aesthetics, and sustainability. User interviews and ergonomic testing helped determine the optimal seat angle for comfort. The findings confirmed that the triangular geometry significantly enhances load-bearing capacity, while precision metal fabrication ensures long-term durability and efficient production feasibility.
Inspiration: Triad is crafted from bent and welded metal sheets, featuring clean lines and a focus on durability and eco-friendliness. Inspired by the geometric beauty of triangles, the design emphasizes stability and balance, while its minimalist form reflects the need for functional yet elegant solutions in modern living spaces.
Project Duration: The project began in October 2024 in Okinawa, was completed in December 2024.
Operation Flow: Triad is designed for direct use with no assembly required. Its triangular geometry ensures high stability, while its lightweight metal structure allows easy repositioning. The ergonomic seat provides comfortable seating, making it suitable for various settings, including homes, cafés, and public spaces.
Team Members: Ruoyou Zhou
Image Credits: Creative direction and brief: Mingbo Hou & Ruoyou Zhou.
Photographer:Hiroto Nakamura , Ruoyou Zhou & Mingbo Hou.