EKA is a minimalist low table and stool created by Belgium-based designer Christian de Haas. Crafted from solid oak, the design is a meticulous assemblage of twelve vertical slats, interchanging in length to form a stable tripod structure.

The design’s intelligence lies in its geometric coherence. Each slat is integral to the construction, supporting the next in a circular arrangement. The edges are beveled to create a dodecagon-shaped plan, adding a layer of complexity to the otherwise simple form. One of the subtler features of EKA is the shadow gap between the slats. This gap subtly accentuates each wooden element, making them distinct yet harmoniously interconnected. As one moves around the piece, its architectural logic complements its aesthetic simplicity.

EKA is essentially a study in balance—balancing technique, form, and function. For its assembly, the piece employs only glued wooden joints, avoiding any extraneous hardware and thus preserving the organic nature of the material. The finish, a transparent stain composed of wax and linseed oil, further emphasizes the natural qualities of the oak.

Photo
Cedric Verhelst