SESC Stools by Lina Bo Bardi for SESC Pompeia, Brazil, 1970s

These SESC stools, designed by Lina Bo Bardi, Marcelo Ferraz, and Marcelo Suzuki for the SESC Pompeia center in São Paulo, showcase the minimalist yet thoughtful design philosophy of these renowned architects. Crafted from pine wood, their sturdy, block-like form and natural wood finish reflect a sense of raw, unpretentious beauty. The signature notch in the backrest adds a unique visual and functional element, making these stools distinctive pieces suitable for both public and private settings. These stools, while modest, are a reflection of the democratic and human-centered design principles of their creators. Priced per piece.

Lina Bo Bardi, born in 1924, was a visionary architect and designer who significantly shaped Brazilian modernism. After studying and working in Italy, Bo Bardi moved to Brazil, where she co-founded the influential magazine Habitat, promoting her belief that architecture should be a "habitat" for human creativity and community. One of her most celebrated works is the SESC Pompeia Factory in São Paulo, a former drum factory she transformed into a vibrant cultural center. The project exemplifies her approach to adaptive reuse, preserving the original industrial character of the building while adding new elements that encourage social interaction and artistic expression. Through projects like SESC Pompeia, Bo Bardi demonstrated her commitment to architecture as a tool for social transformation, blending functionality with a deeply humanistic vision.