MIT students blend woodworking with robotics to consruct two-person stool

mit students rekindle human connection

Born from the collaboration of a group of students at MIT, the Homie Stool intertwines the artistry of CNC milling and woodworking with the precision of robotics. The project emerges as a beacon of hope in an era marked by rapid technological advancements, where a pervasive sense of uncertainty and apprehension has taken hold. Transcending beyond traditional seating, Mateo Fernandez, Yiqing Wang, and Justin Brazier’s design’s significance lies in its ambition to reimagine and celebrate the essence of human connection. By inviting individuals to sit back-to-back, it fosters an intimate and engaging environment. As they lean on each other for support, a connection is forged and conversations flow. ‘It serves as a gentle reminder that human connection and interaction are the essence of our existence,’ notes Fernandez.

all images courtesy of Mateo Fernandez

two-person ‘homie stool’ balances on just two legs

Defying expectations with its indeterminate structural design, the Homie Stool balances on only two legs. The MIT students constructed the stool from maple wood using CNC milling, to showcase a unique assembly process reminiscent of a three-dimensional puzzle. Its intricately designed dovetail connections enable a robot to deftly piece the stool together, dropping each component into its predetermined geolocated coordinates. With a mathematically precise curvature enabled by the coding and calibration of the robot, the stool is able to stand independently once assembled.

In a world consumed by screens and digital interfaces, the Homie Stool breaks free from isolation, inviting us to embrace the power of physical presence. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of human interaction and challenges us to rediscover the true essence of our existence. Through its integration of technology, this piece acts as a catalyst, reaffirming our interconnectedness and the significance of cherishing vulnerable moments that foster unity.

MIT students present the ‘Homie Stool’