Rock climbing informs stool with integrated carabiner by Junho Kang

South Korean designer Junho Kang has created Cling, a stool made from stainless steel sheets and designed to resemble a climber's grip. The stool was designed to reference different aspects of lead climbing, with a seat informed by the shape of a rock and pincer-shaped legs that emulate the shape of hands gripping between rock The post Rock climbing informs stool with integrated carabiner by Junho Kang appeared first on Dezeen.

Rock climbing informs stool with integrated carabiner by Junho Kang

A photograph of a person sat on a silver stool

South Korean designer Junho Kang has created Cling, a stool made from stainless steel sheets and designed to resemble a climber's grip.

The stool was designed to reference different aspects of lead climbing, with a seat informed by the shape of a rock and pincer-shaped legs that emulate the shape of hands gripping between rock crevices.

"In climbing, the way you grip a rock depends on its shape, and I drew on that idea for Cling," Kang told Dezeen.

A rope and carabiner, which are essential tools for climbers, are also incorporated into the design

A close up photograph of a silver metal stool, with a blue rope tied to it — The stool's legs intend to mimic the grip of a climber's hand

"These tools provide a sense of trust and security when climbing, which inspired me to incorporate them into the Cling stool," explained Kang.

The rope is hung from a carabiner under the seat and tied to an eye nut in a double figure-eight knot, which climbers use to secure themselves. The resulting sling is decorative but can also be used to store a book or magazine.

Stool with a rope and carabiner — The stool features climbing equipment such as a carabiner and rope

Through experimenting with surface treatments, the designer settled on using a brass brush to give the steel a rough texture reminiscent of rock.

The stool's design is also intended to be customisable, according to Kang. "The legs can vary based on different grip techniques, while the seat – representing the rock face – can shift from circular to polygonal forms inspired by natural rock formations," he said.

A recent graduate from Hongik University in Seoul, Kang created the Cling stool to unite his interest in climbing and design.

"It's a reflection of my personal journey and interests coming together," he said.

"Since I started sport climbing, it's become a vital part of my life. Last year, I dove into art furniture design and decided to blend my passion for climbing with furniture creation."

A close up photograph of a metal stool — The stool's surface was treated with a brass brush for a rock-like texture

Kang plans to continue the concept of Cling, exploring with plans to produce a full furniture collection inspired by rock climbing.

"Starting with this stool, I plan to explore these variations and expand the concept further," Kang shared.

A photograph of a metal stool on concrete — Kang envisions Cling to evolve as part of a furniture collection

"This year, I plan to develop variations of Cling alongside new pieces like lighting and a bookstand, building a cohesive series rooted in my love for climbing," he added.

Other climbing-inspired projects on Dezeen include a rock climbing-themed staircase and a bouldering wall incorporated into a living room.

The post Rock climbing informs stool with integrated carabiner by Junho Kang appeared first on Dezeen.