‘Lumber’ by ADDI renders an innovative sense of comfort in tight spaces

Waiting areas, as transitional spaces, often turn into a waiting game or a round of musical chairs, with some standing or perch awkwardly on the edges. To address this issue, Sweden-based design studio ADDI designed a seating system titled Lumber. The furniture design is intended for areas where conventional chair design or seating is superfluous or excessively spacious. Lumber is available as a wall-mounted seater and one with legs that can be placed on the floor. The seats, manufactured by the Swedish firm Mizetto, were created in response to the growing amount of time individuals are spending in active yet anonymous spaces, such as cafes, waiting rooms, school hallways and office waiting areas.

Lumber’s design aims to create something that is minimal with regard to its expression and material. Drawing inspiration from a traditional sawhorse, the studio ideated Lumber as a playful yet functional piece of furniture that fulfils new needs. The product is covered in a completely removable, replaceable and repairable cover made of flame-resistant wool. The powder-coated metal legs come in a variety of colours, including deep burgundy, latte, forest green, dusty blue, and black.

Elaborating on the design approach team ADDI relays, “When creating Lumber our idea was to interpret motion, but also to design a piece of furniture that speaks to passers-by. Inspire them to take a break or a spontaneous meeting. A creative resting place in the activity-based workplace.” Lumber has an inviting design that exudes the message, “perch on me without any strings attached”. While its primary function is to provide temporary relief to individuals, it can also serve as a room divider when positioned adjacent to one another, a focal point in an artistic setting, and a children's play area.

In a world where comfort in public areas is sometimes subordinated to functionality, creative solutions such as Lumber by ADDI provide a ray of optimism. In addition to addressing the problems of claustrophobic waiting areas, the emphasis on adaptability, aesthetics, and practicality also adds a dash of originality and usefulness. Not only does Lumber offer a place to sit, but its well-thought-out design invites people to stop, chat and take a moment to themselves. Furniture ideas like Lumber serves as a constant reminder that comfort and creativity may coexist peacefully in even the most ordinary spaces.