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Triad Sella by Mingbo Hou and Ruoyou Zhou

Triad Sella by Mingbo Hou and Ruoyou Zhou is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2025 Praemium A' Design Award Argenteum in Designatio Supellectilis Competition Category.


ArgentumSupellex· 2025

Triad Sella

by Mingbo Hou and Ruoyou Zhou

Client: Mingbo Hou and Ruoyou Zhou

Praemium A' Design Award Argenteum Winner in Supellex Category

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Verified Award Winner

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Colors

The Design

About Triad Sella

Triad est sella geometria triangulari designata ad stabilitatem praebendam spatioque optimando. E laminis metallicis curvatis ferruminatisque confecta, structuram durabilem et sedem leviter concavam ad commoditatem habet. Forma levis facilem motionem permittit, eam ad loca diversa idoneam reddens. Nulla compositione necessaria, Triad ad usum in domibus, tabernis et spatiis communibus destinata est. Conformatio geometrica efficientiam materiae efficit dum rationem practicam sedendi servat.

The Recognition

About the Praemium A' Design Award Argenteum

Triad Sella victor est Praemii A' Design Award Argenteum, honoris eximie amplissimi formis summi generis, pulchris et conspicuis dati. Victores Argenti opera valde splendida et creandi ingenio praedita sunt, quae praestantem peritiam, talentum et acumen auctorum suorum ostendunt. Exspectatur Triad Sella opus mirabile, exemplare, valde professionale et penitus novum fore. Haec forma Argento victa inventum notabile et admiratum est, quod ad fines artis, scientiae, formandi rationis et technologiae promovendos confert. Triad Sella creatio est, quam multi invident, quae cupiditates excitat, sensus bonos affert et admirationem miraculumque movet.

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.

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