The often-overlooked plastic stool takes center stage with a playful twist, courtesy of the Dream Research Society. This Chinese product studio has transformed an ordinary stool into an oversized Esc keycap, complete with distinctive tapered sides and the iconic white ESC label, known as “storage stools”. Beyond its novel appearance, this stool’s top lifts off to reveal hidden storage, perfect for concealing shoes, toys, or even a box of unsorted cables. Available in transparent, black, and white, this stool pairs functionality with a sense of humor.
Design Elements of Keycap-Inspired Stools
Mirroring a computer keycap, these stools’ design features soften edges and bold labels. Its cut-away corners create four stable feet, suggesting a compact and low design suitable for tying shoes rather than dining. The stool’s top, which also serves as the lid, includes a finger slot for easy access to the storage inside. When filled, the transparent version turns clutter into a visual display.
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Color Variations and Historical Nods
The various stools are showcased with bodies in transparent, black, and white, paired with gray lids. Some renders even suggest frosted bodies with pink, green, and cream lids. This playful nod to the Esc key pays homage to its inventor, Bob Bemer, who pushed the escape character into ASCII to ASCII in the 1960s. Housing this giant escape key at home ties a modern aesthetic to a timeless computer concept.
The oversized keycap stools, available from major Chinese e-commerce platforms, pique curiosity internationally, although current sales appear limited to local markets. Promo images hint at potential arrow-key styled stools in clear blue, suggesting future expansions in this conceptual furniture design line.
Source: yankodesign.com
Frequently asked questions
What is unique about the storage stools?
The storage stools, designed by the Dream Research Society, have an oversized Esc keycap shape with distinctive tapered sides and the iconic white ESC label. The top lifts off to reveal hidden storage, perfect for concealing items like shoes, toys, or cables.
What colors do the escape key stools come in?
The stools are available in transparent, black, and white, and some renders suggest frosted bodies with pink, green, and cream lids.
Where can you purchase the oversized keycap stools?
These oversized keycap stools are available from major Chinese e-commerce platforms, although current sales appear limited to local markets.