Anyone out there ever heard of a “Thai Triangle Pillow?” Neither had I, until the Star Stool by Deesawat Industries recently brought the notion to my attention. These artisanal items—which according to some accounts may date back as far as 1200—are known for their distinctive shape and high functionality: “They are used as comfortable casual seating, as chair pads, accent pillows and sometimes as a yoga pad.”

Star Stool. Designed by Nakarin Kamseela. Manufactured by Deesawat Industries.

Deesawat’s Star Stool Evinces Ancient Thai Craftsmanship

The triangle design was so successful that it became a hallmark of Thai artisanship and craft, so Deeswat’s re-incorporation of the motif has special meaning to designers like Nakarin Kamseela who envisioned Star and brought it to fruition.

One of the more intriguing aspects about the Thai triangle pillow—and the Star Stool—is the way it links triangular and hexagonal motifs. The three-sided modular stool is distinctive for the intricate designs of its top end, made by joining lengths of carved wood at 60 degree angles.

The technique manifests as 13 separate triangles on the stool’s top, all contained within the hexagonal outline of Star’s outer surface. The Star Stool’s three thin and streamlined legs provide the finishing touch for this exquisitely crafted and appealing furnishing: “the simple shape of a triangular pillow highlights the strength and suppleness of traditional Thai design.”

About the Manufacturer: Since its inception, Deesawat has been at the center of Thailand’s thriving wood industry. The company dates back to 1972. Since then, Deesawat has grown to inhabit a 30,000 square meter production space employing over 200 workers. The company specializes in doors, floors, and outdoor furniture. Many of Deesawat’s products are made using reclaimed, sustainable, or recycled teak, but the company has recently branched out into alternative materials like aluminum, stainless steel, batyline, sunbrella, and synthetic rattan.