Exhibition of cardboard stools bottega veneta, artist Illya Goldman Gubin presenting innovative designs

Illya Goldman Gubin Transforms Cardboard into Artful Stools for Bottega Veneta’s 2027 Show

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Written by Sam Johnson

2026-09-28

Cardboard Stools: A Fusion of Art and Utility with Cardboard Stools Bottega Veneta

In a striking confluence of design and material reuse, Ukrainian artist Illya Goldman Gubin reinvents these creations into unique pieces for Bottega Veneta’s Summer 2027 collection. Each piece starts as a simple box, meticulously reshaped by Gubin using his body’s physical force, then solidified with resin and fiberglass. The resulting furniture pays homage to the iconic interwoven leather techniques of Bottega Veneta’s famed Intreccio.

Close-up of a single cardboard stool with intricate folding design

The Art of Cardboard Transformation

Goldman Gubin’s approach preserves the essence of the original cardboard structure, creating a palpable link to the material’s previous life. His method involves hand-folding and crumpling the boxes, which leaves each stool marked with creases and textures that highlight its past, echoing the interlocking design of the Intreccio. As Gubin works with these stools, the transformation embodies both artistry and utility.

Row of uniquely designed cardboard stools lined against a wall

This transformation reimagines the cardboard’s role—from a disposable container to a functional art piece capable of supporting human weight. The stools retain visible facets of their previous identities, ensuring no two pieces are alike. By working on this project, Gubin highlights the innovative potential of this often-overlooked material.

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Artist Illya Goldman Gubin arranging cardboard stools in geometric pattern

Artistic Process and Physical Engagement

Gubin’s hands-on technique ensures that every stool is distinctly marked with the artist’s interaction with the material. The crumpled surfaces and dents are integral to the stools, narrating a story of transformation powered by human engagement. The essence of cardboard furniture is captured in these pieces, exemplifying both sustainability and style.

Detailed view of intersecting cardboard stool components

The creation process is enriched by maintaining the identity of the boxes, with their original flaps and folds cleverly integrated into the artwork’s final form. This interlocking design is reminiscent of Bottega Veneta’s masterful leather crafts, a feature proudly shared in this collection.

Cardboard stool with circular top and ribbed texture
Stools displayed in a modern gallery setting, minimalist decor
Artist demonstrating construction of modular cardboard stool piece by piece

From Transient to Timeless

By converting these everyday items into lasting objects of design, Gubin’s work highlights the potential of materials typically deemed as waste. The stools stand as a testament to innovative reuse, offering a fresh lens through which to view sustainable design. The project is a shining example of this transformative journey.

Close perspective of a layered, accordion-like cardboard stool

The project, aptly named “Karton Hocker [Cardboard Stool],” enhances the cardboard’s utility while preserving the visual and tactile remnants of its origins. This reverse in function emphasizes a sustainable narrative within the luxury fashion world.

Overhead view of stools arranged in a circular formation

An Artist’s Mark

Every stool is a testament to Gubin’s intimate crafting process. The artist’s physical interaction leaves a distinct imprint on each piece, showcasing resilience and aesthetic appeal in equal measure.

Artist interacting with viewers at the cardboard stool exhibit

The reinforced surface of each stool embodies both artistic elegance and robust functionality, with its raw cardboard origin still evident and honored beneath the textured exterior.

Natural light illuminating textured surface of a cardboard stool

Illya Goldman Gubin’s innovation continues to redefine the way we perceive everyday materials, transforming them into enduring pieces of art.

Two stools positioned near a display of architectural sketches
Hands demonstrating the folding mechanism of a cardboard stool
Stood-alone cardboard stool with hexagonal base design
Overview of the gallery showcasing cardboard stools in diverse arrangements

The Journey of Transformation

This project not only endows cardboard with newfound dignity but also rethinks its purpose entirely. The stools encapsulate the intriguing balance between fragility and strength, redefining furniture design possibilities. The collaboration further emphasizes this artistic evolution.

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Artist engaged in a conversation about stool design features

With the “Karton Hocker” project, Gubin has once again showcased his mastery over cardboard, pushing the boundaries of this humble material’s capabilities.

Focused view on the stool's curved edge finishing

The original box form is reshaped through the artist’s direct intervention, retaining visible traces of its initial structure., leaving a sophisticated structure reminiscent of interlocking leather strips.

Side angle of a stool emphasizing its structural balance

Goldman Gubin’s dedication to material exploration cements his standing in the realms of contemporary sculpture and functional art.

Cluster of stools structured in a staggered layout

This collaboration with Bottega Veneta not only underlines the potential for sustainable fashion-forward projects but also highlights Gubin’s unique creative voice in the world of design.

Close-up detailing the interlocking methods used in stool design
Cardboard stools arranged in a line beside a reflective glass panel
Stool showcase with a backdrop of concept sketches and notes
Image by Peter Fraser depicting detailed view of stacking stool design
image by Peter Fraser
Image by Peter Fraser revealing stool's papery texture intricacies
image by Peter Fraser
Image by Peter Fraser showing stools with sculpted, wave-like sides
image by Peter Fraser
Image by Peter Fraser capturing varied heights of cardboard stools
image by Peter Fraser
ROCA AVANT showcasing stools with intricate, curved structures
ROCA AVANT

Sources & Links

Source: designboom.com

Frequently asked questions

How does Illya Goldman Gubin transform cardboard into stools?

Gubin starts with a simple box, reshapes it using physical force, and solidifies it with resin and fiberglass. This method highlights the cardboard’s original structure through creases and textures.

What is the significance of the stools in Bottega Veneta’s collection?

The stools pay homage to Bottega Veneta’s Intreccio leather techniques, showcasing innovative reuse of materials in their Summer 2027 collection. They represent a fusion of art and utility, offering sustainable design within the luxury fashion world.

What message does Gubin’s project convey about cardboard reuse?

Gubin’s project highlights the innovative potential of cardboard, which is often overlooked. It reimagines cardboard’s role from a disposable material to a functional art piece, advocating for sustainable design.