I STOOL is a minimalist stool created by Seoul-based artist Lee Sisan. At the heart of this series is the creative employment of standardized industrial square pipes, a staple in architectural construction, now reimagined for their aesthetic and structural potential. The designs manifest through a straightforward assembly of pipes of varying sizes, either connected directly or intersecting, to foreground the inherent structural qualities of these materials. The architect behind this vision, Lee, takes a unique approach by embracing the natural phenomena that occur during the material manipulation process as integral to the aesthetic appeal of the pieces. For instance, the act of welding stainless steel not only fuses materials but also brings forth a spectrum of hues on the surface, a direct result of the heat application.

Similarly, aluminum, known for its lower strength and susceptibility to scratches, has been deliberately finished to showcase these marks. These characteristics, often deemed imperfections in a traditional manufacturing context, are celebrated for their distinctive beauty and narrative depth in this collection. Typically regarded as flaws to be concealed, especially from the perspective of market readiness and consumer acceptance, these material traces are instead fully disclosed in Lee’s exhibition. The deliberate showcasing of such marks blurs the lines between design and art, suggesting a deeper contemplation on the part of the creator. These engraved traces on the metal surfaces not only serve as aesthetic distinctions but also symbolize the conceptual journey between design and artistry.