Steven Sander: The Stick Bench
combine them with non-traditional materials like metal and boldly colored paints," he says. "I try to find ways to include these very different elements in my work to create something that is completely my own, yet still intriguing to others."
The stick bench perfectly encapsulates that approach. The bench is assembled by lining up by hand each individual stick in a tight grid filling the metal shell, showcasing different techniques and materials to create a bench that is simultaneously durable and yielding to the occupant. That duality of nature is possible only through the use of exotic wood.
Sander compares his love of using wood to an addiction. "Wood's gorgeous, unique qualities draw me in. Each of these woods has characteristics all their own that range from beautiful colors to stunning grain patterns," he says.
Beyond just the look of the piece, Sander uses exotic woods for their performance characteristics as well. Particularly in objects like the bench which will see a great deal of use, the density that exotic woods add is important to the life of the object.
Above all, Sander treasures "the interaction with the user to my work. Not only do I enjoy the challenge of creating moveable parts but I believe that the incorporation of these moveable parts draws the user further into the piece. This creates an intimate connection with the user that is not easily forgotten."
The connection is further enhanced by "the natural attraction to wood as a medium people have" adds Sander. "The wood invites the person to experience its visual and tactile qualities. Exotic woods with their many varieties of grains, colors and hues bring an added dimension to my pieces and serve to enhance that visual and tactile experience."
Steven Sander
www.sjsanderdesign.com
Frequently asked questions
How is Steven Sander's stick bench constructed?+
The bench is assembled by lining up each individual stick by hand in a tight grid that fills a metal shell. This approach combines different techniques and materials to create a bench that is both durable and yielding to the occupant.
Why does Steven Sander use exotic wood in his furniture?+
Sander uses exotic woods for both their aesthetic and performance qualities. Their unique colors and grain patterns are visually striking, while their density adds longevity to pieces like the bench that will see heavy use.
What design philosophy guides Steven Sander's work?+
Sander combines exotic woods with non-traditional materials like metal and boldly colored paints. He seeks to integrate these contrasting elements into pieces that feel uniquely his own while remaining intriguing to others.
Why does Steven Sander incorporate moveable parts into his furniture?+
Sander believes moveable parts draw users deeper into a piece, creating an intimate connection that is not easily forgotten. He also enjoys the technical challenge of designing them.
How do exotic woods enhance the user's experience of Sander's pieces?+
Exotic woods invite users to engage with both the visual and tactile qualities of the piece. Their varied grains, colors and hues add dimension that enriches that sensory experience.