"In pondering how to improve on the simple function of a stool I found myself observing the simple act of intertwining the fingers of my hands."
-Carol Catalano

By studying the ergonomics of comfortable sitting, Catalano and her staff developed several ideas for the stool using cardboard and foam models, refining the Capelli stool's form until it was "comfortable and beautiful."

Since founding Catalano Design in 1987, she has applied her creative talents to a wide variety of products. Catalano finds learning about new industries one of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of her job. Having made a commitment to include much more consideration for the end user's experience in all her designs, she likes to push the current boundaries of her field.

The Capelli Stool consists of two identical laminated wood pieces with undulating "fingers" molded at the top that interlock without tools or fasteners. As the surfaces between the fingers meet they become stops that hold each half of the stool firmly in place for an ingeniously stable and remarkably strong structure. Composed of 11 alternating dark and light-stained hardwood inner plies and light ash veneer, the stool separates into two halves that stack conveniently together for easy storage.

Awarded "Silver" in the Industrial Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) of 2002.