Rauni Peippo "Apila" Stool for Stockmann Orno, Finland, 1960s

This famous pine stool by Finnish interior designer Rauni Peippo is the most famous model from the ‘Apila’ set, that contains a table and bar stools as well. It is one of those models that is immediately recognizable thanks to its shape. Finnish design is appreciated around the world for its minimalistic appearance, playful forms and strict functionalism. After Finland became independent, a dialogue with nature was to become the prime force in the ongoing evolution of Finnish design. This relationship with nature was much in evidence in 20th century Finnish design, which actively expanded on the metaphors and motifs therein. This progression is evident in this iconic stool. “Apila” means “clover” in Finnish, which comes as no surprise; the four leaf clover-shaped seat is carved from pine wood, enhancing the already organic impression of this model. It is infinitely stylish, with sleek tapered legs that counterbalance the round, soft edges of the body. The design dates to the mid-century and the first manufacturer was Stockmann Orno, a manufacturer with a history that dates back to 1862. (It is still the largest department store in the Nordic countries.) This stool was previously misattributed to fellow Finnish designer, Lisa Johansson-Pape, but is now well-documented. Thanks to its sturdy construction and undeniable style, this ‘Apila’ stool...

Sauna stools have been in use for centuries, predominantly in Japan and in Finland. While this form of furniture is mostly a utilitarian object, vintage sauna stools - like this set of four - from these countries are artisanal, beautiful pieces. From Antti Nurmesniemi’s sauna stool (which is part of the MoMA’s collection) to the Japanese Hinoki stools, these vintage wooden pieces are perhaps even more treasured today than in the 50s. Sauna stools are traditionally used as a perch while washing up in the bathhouse before entering the soaking tub. They also make good shower stools or bath-side caddies also because the woods used - pine in this case - are naturally bacteria- and mildew-resistant and withstand humidity well. Stools traditionally have a simple, functional construction, however, these Finnish stools have elaborately carved tops that move beyond the strictly functional role. The tops are composed of four interconnecting parts in a shape that resembles a Celtic knot. These individual parts are connected by two dowel pins to each other leaving the design airy and functional as water has an easy way to flow through. The legs are in a simple, slightly tapered form to support the sitter with similar dowel pins connecting them to the seats. These mid-century sauna stools were made for Finnsauna Lagerholm...

Stool, model Apila, designed by Finish designer Rauni Peippo for Stockmann Orno in the 1950s. This model was for a very long time attributed to world famous Finnish lighting designer...

Set Of four Scandinavian Modern stools model Apila by Rauni Peippo for Keravan Puusepät Oy Finland from the 1950s/1960s, birch. Later painted black. Good ...