cornice: stackable wooden stool by nao iwamatsu acts as seat, side table, and sculpture

designer Nao Iwamatsu conceives CORNICE stacking stool

Presented at SaloneSatellite 2025, CORNICE is a stacking stool designed by Tokyo-based industrial designer Nao Iwamatsu, integrating principles of ‘Narrative Minimalism’ and structural rhythm. The design utilizes slender wood offcuts, forming a composition that balances functionality with architectural references.

The stool draws inspiration from decorative cornices in Western architecture and the rhythmic beam structures found in Japanese temple ceilings. Its stepped form, when stacked, creates a rhythmic visual effect while maintaining a sculptural presence.

all images courtesy of Nao Iwamatsu

CORNICE is made of slender repurposed wood offcuts

Conceived by industrial designer Nao Iwamatsu to complement quiet, refined interiors, CORNICE serves both as a seating element and a side table, as well as a sculptural statement piece.

Constructed using 13mm wooden pieces bonded with domino joints, the stool maintains structural integrity while repurposing collected offcuts. It is designed for flat-pack shipping, optimizing material use and transport efficiency. The prototype is made of teak, though variations in oak and other woods offer alternative finishes.

the stool is crafted from slender wood offcuts, emphasizing material efficiency

CORNICE takes inspiration from Western cornices and Japanese beam structures

its stepped design creates a rhythmic visual effect when stacked

constructed from 13mm wooden pieces, bonded with domino joints for strength

the interplay of structure and rhythm defines CORNICE’s architectural presence

CORNICE serves as a sculptural statement piece in contemporary spaces

a functional object that transforms into a sculptural element when stacked

axonometric drawing of domino joints

project info:

name: CORNICE
designer: Nao Iwamatsu | @naoiwamatsu

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom