Heritage Olive Kitchen Private Apartment — Zamalek | 2022
May 2, 2026

PYLON Stool

Furniture Design
Furniture Collection
2022

Project Overview

PYLON is a contemporary sculptural stool that bridges heritage and innovation — reinterpreting one of Ancient Egypt’s most iconic architectural elements into a functional design object.

Developed as a research-driven piece, the project explores how material innovation and cultural identity can coexist within a single form.

Design Concept

Inspired by the monumental gateways of ancient Egyptian temples, the stool translates the pylon form into a minimal, contemporary silhouette.

Referencing Akhet — the horizon — the design represents a symbolic threshold between past and present, where traditional inspiration meets modern design language.

Material Innovation

At the core of PYLON lies a breakthrough material approach:

  • Crafted entirely from Ply-Papyrus
  • A patented, 0% wood engineered sheet
  • Developed as a sustainable alternative to timber

This reintroduction of papyrus — historically used for writing — transforms it into a load-bearing structural material for the first time in furniture design.

Engineering & Construction

The form is achieved through a layered bending technique, engineered to ensure:

  • Structural strength
  • Load resistance
  • Long-term durability

The seamless curvature is not only aesthetic — it is a direct result of material behavior and fabrication logic.

Design Features

  • Sculptural yet functional form
  • Continuous curved structure
  • Integrated seating surface
  • Minimal joints & clean geometry
  • Balanced proportions inspired by architectural scale

Recognition & Exhibition

  • A’ Design Award Winner – 2022
  • Exhibited at COP27 – Egypt
  • Showcased at Revelation Paris 2023

The piece has gained international recognition, with editions placed in prestigious locations including:

  • The Presidential Palace of Egypt
  • A private residence overlooking the Eiffel Tower, Paris

Design Outcome

More than a stool, PYLON stands as a design statement — merging heritage, sustainability, and engineering into one cohesive object.

It redefines how local materials and historical references can shape the future of contemporary design.

Design Outcome

More than a stool, PYLON stands as a design statement — merging heritage, sustainability, and engineering into one cohesive object.

It redefines how local materials and historical references can shape the future of contemporary design.

Credits

Designed by:
Hisham El Essawy (HEDS Designs)
Maha Ragab (Maha Ragab Designs)

Manufactured by:
Pinocchio Factory — Damietta, Egypt