The Curvesse Rocker offers a fresh, elegant twist on a familiar classic. Designed by industrial design student Dashiell Schaeffer at Pratt Institute, this minimalist chair showcases how smart material choices and precise craftsmanship can transform a simple sheet of plywood into a refined piece of furniture.

Designed for Comfort and Versatility

Schaeffer set out to rethink the traditional rocking chair. He wanted to create a sleek, sculptural piece that fits comfortably in a range of settings—from home interiors to offices or relaxation areas. The flowing shape supports the body with ergonomic curves in the seat and backrest. This design makes the chair easy to sink into and suitable for all body types.

Made from a Single Sheet of Plywood

The Curvesse was built from just one standard 4 x 8-foot sheet of bendable poplar plywood. Schaeffer used two grain directions of ⅛-inch plywood: barrel sheets bend across the 4-foot width for broader curves, while column sheets bend along the 8-foot length for tighter turns. He layered three of each to form a strong, flexible ¾-inch structure.

By alternating these layers, he improved both strength and flexibility. This careful combination allowed the wood to bend smoothly while holding the weight of a person.

Crafting the Perfect Curve

Schaeffer faced challenges in shaping the wood without it cracking. He used steam to pre-bend some layers and created custom moulds to set the curves. He laminated the layers using a vacuum bag to hold everything together. The process involved extensive trial and error to find the right shape and motion.

This method highlights how technical precision and experimentation can lead to innovative outcomes. It also shows the potential of standard plywood when used with creativity and care.

A Model of Material Efficiency

The efficient use of a single sheet of wood reduces waste and supports circular design thinking. The Curvesse demonstrates how designers can do more with less.

The project received the 2025 SIT Furniture Design Award and earned an honourable mention in Rockler’s social media-based “Try That Challenge.”

Source: Core77
Images: Dashiell Schaeffer