The "AX" stool and the "Mule" bench have the function of Essential Multifunctionality

For the first time together, renowned Milanese designer, Alessandro Stabile, and the historic Friulian brand, Zilio A & C, present two projects: the AX stool and the Mule bench family. This partnership, rooted in a profound aesthetic and functional affinity, is reflected in the distinctive and minimalist beauty of the two projects and it is also combines Stabile's innovative vision with the craftsmanship of Zilio A & C, founded in 1951 in Manzano, in the heart of the Udine chair district.

AX stools provide an informal seating solution for any space
Photo credit: Courtesy Zilio A&C

AX: The crystallization of a gesture into a multifunctional stool

The AX stool evokes the moment when the wood log, struck by the woodsman's axe, splits in two. It is the temporal crystallization of a gesture translated into a clean and extremely marked form. The split that characterizes AX suggests its grip for moving and stacking. It is an ideal complement as an informal seat in restaurants and bars or exhibition spaces, and in contexts such as libraries and bookstores, to quickly set up a talk area, or even to be freely positioned in home interiors. Made of ash plywood, it is available in five customizable tones: alongside natural and black, blue, green, and red are primary and saturated colors that add a pop touch. Meticulous details embellish the stool and increase its functionality, such as the split that continues into the seat and is perceived in the slight inclination of the wood, creating a refined chiaroscuro movement. There is also an internal construction system which, when stacking the stool, prevents it from sliding down, thus protecting the wood from excessive rubbing and wear to ensure its durability over time.

A minimalist marvel crafted from ash plywood
Photo credit: Courtesy Zilio A&C

Mule: Archetypal benches with zen vibrations

The Mule project is a family of ash benches whose milled solid wood sides enhance the sculptural linearity imagined by Alessandro Stabile. Mule can also be interpreted in many different ways, from a temporary seat, perfect for contract use in a showroom or store, to a domestic surface to be moved as needed in the living room for a book or cellphone. In the bedroom, it can serve as a bedside table or valet stand, or in the bathroom as a storage space. The bench is available in two sizes — 60 and 120 centimeters — in a refined organic and intense palette: olive green, smoke, and rust red, in addition to the classic black and natural ash.

AX and Mule

Beyond the common concept of seating, AX and Mule are two iconic projects that blend intuitive simplicity and craftsmanship rooted in the territory, delicately entering the domestic landscape and collective spaces with their timeless forms.

About Zéilio A & C

Zéilio A & C is one of the historic companies in the Chair District of Manzano; it has been producing chairs and furnishing accessories since 1951. It is a company where experience, passed down from father to son, creates a delicate synergy between fine woods, traditional craftsmanship, modern technologies, and genuine internationality. Refined and essential style, a sophisticated palette of selected materials, and meticulous care for every design and construction detail represent the distinctive mark of Zilio A & C, with furniture and accessories for residential and contract settings that maintain their value and beauty over time.