marie adam-leenaerdt invites guests to build the runway with modular stools in paris

a set built in real time for Marie Adam-Leenaerdt fw 2025 show

For her Fall/Winter 2026 presentation in Paris, Marie Adam-Leenaerdt transformed the conventional fashion show format into a collective act of making, designed by villa eugénie. Guests arrived to find stacks of compact black stools placed around an empty hall. Each attendee picked up a seat and positioned it along taped lines on the floor, gradually shaping the runway space themselves. The set evolved in real time, turning the audience into quiet collaborators in the spatial choreography of the show.

At the center of the concept is a simple, utilitarian object: a folding plastic stool branded with the designer’s name. Lightweight and stackable, the modular pieces function as seating, stage prop, and structural element. Arranged side by side, they form a perimeter that frames the runway. The repeated black forms introduce a rhythmic geometry that contrasts with the otherwise raw atmosphere of the venue.

all images via @villaeugenie

modular stools define villa eugénie’s scenographic system

The installation reflects the guiding ethos of Marie Adam-Leenaerdt’s FW26 collection, which explores making with care, embracing imperfection, and simplifying the process of DIY production. The scenography allows irregularity instead of presenting a perfectly controlled environment. Each guest places their stool slightly differently, creating subtle shifts in spacing and alignment. The runway feels intentionally unfinished, echoing the designer’s interest in honest processes and collaborative gestures.

As the show begins, the stools remain visible reminders of the audience’s role in shaping the environment. Their presence transforms a familiar fashion ritual into a runway assembled collectively, piece by piece. The whole set, conceived and designed by the team at villa eugénie, operates like a modular system that activates the room, reinforcing the idea that fashion presentation can be built through shared action rather than fixed design.

modular black stools designed as both seating and scenographic elements for the show

the stackable stools feature marie adam-leenaerdt branding and a lightweight folding design

rows of stools gradually shape the runway during the audience’s arrival

the runway space emerges collectively as guests arrange their seats throughout the venue

guests carry stackable stools into the space

taped lines on the floor guide guests as they position their seats around the runway

project info:

name: Marie Adam-Leenaerdt Fall/Winter 2026 show | @marlastar

concept, set design & production: villa eugénie | @villaeugenie