undulating plywood layers form stratum parametric public seating sculpture

the installation bridges the gap between commercial furniture and architectural sculpture, utilizing computational design to create an undulating public seating landscape.

AY edited by christina vergopoulou October 19, 2026 3 min

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COMPUTATIONAL DESIGN YIELDS Stratum PARAMETRIC TIMBER BENCH

STRATUM is a monumental parametric wooden bench designed and manufactured by Zorka Furniture for Haywood Mall in Greenville, South Carolina. Spanning nearly 29 feet and featuring over 600 individually CNC-cut components, this sculptural installation transforms traditional seating into an interactive architectural landmark, combining innovative design, precision craftsmanship, and functionality in a contemporary public space.

undulating plywood layers form stratum parametric public seating sculpture - 1 — all images ©Zorka Furniture

600 CNC-CUT PLYWOOD COMPONENTS FORM MODULAR ASSEMBLY

The structure by design and manufacturing studio Zorka Furniture comprises over 600 individually CNC-cut wooden components milled from roughly 100 plywood sheets. Assembled into a three-dimensional, layered mass, the varying profiles produce a rhythmic sequence of curves, integrated seating niches, and arched pass-throughs designed for visitor interaction. Weighing over 5,500 pounds (2,500 kilograms), the bench was fabricated into modular sections, shipped on five pallets, and assembled overnight to accommodate the mall’s operating hours.

undulating plywood layers form stratum parametric public seating sculpture - 2 — STRATUM is a monumental parametric bench designed and manufactured by Zorka Furniture

undulating plywood layers form stratum parametric public seating sculpture - 3 — the installation is located within the central concourse of Haywood Mall in Greenville, South Carolina

stratum-monumental-parametric-wooden-bench-zorka-furniture-designboom-1800-2 — the structure is assembled from over 600 individually CNC-cut wooden components

undulating plywood layers form stratum parametric public seating sculpture - 4 — the design merges traditional public seating with large-scale architectural sculpture

stratum-monumental-parametric-wooden-bench-zorka-furniture-designboom-1800-3 — layered wooden profiles create a fluid, undulating geometric silhouette

undulating plywood layers form stratum parametric public seating sculpture - 5 — varying timber contours form integrated seating niches along the length of the bench

undulating plywood layers form stratum parametric public seating sculpture - 6 — arched openings are integrated into the lower profile to invite physical interaction

stratum-monumental-parametric-wooden-bench-zorka-furniture-designboom-1800-4 — digital design software calculated the unique geometry of each individual component

undulating plywood layers form stratum parametric public seating sculpture - 7 — close-up of STRATUM’s precision CNC-cut wooden layers, highlighting the intricate parametric geometry

@zorkafurniture
Not just a bench. This is STRATUM — a sculptural parametric art installation that transforms ordinary public spaces into unforgettable destinations. Every layer is precisely engineered to create a flowing architectural form that invites people to sit, explore, interact, and take photos. Designed and handcrafted in the USA by Zorka Furniture. #DesignTok #Architecture #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #Woodworking
♬ Join the Team-Backing Track – Jason LoCricchio

@zorkafurniture
Nature became our blueprint. Inspired by Utah’s iconic arches and dramatic landscapes, we sculpted those flowing rock formations into a functional work of art. Watch the Stratum Bench take shape—where architecture, nature, and craftsmanship become one. #artistsoftiktok #art #Architecture #bench #Design
♬ Powerful songs like action movie music – Tansa

project info:

name: Bench Stratum
parametric bench design & fabrication: Zorka Furniture | @zorkafurniture

location: Haywood Mall, Greenville, South Carolina, USA

materials: CNC-cut plywood

dimensions: Approximately 345 inches (8.76 meters) in length

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. See more project submissions from our readers here.