Named Product of the Year at the International Interior Design Awards in 2000, Shin and Tomoko Azumi's LEM Piston Stool (2000) reveals rigorous and original rethinking of the form and function of seating. The LEM Piston Stool's sculptural leather, stainless steel or beech wood seat not only swivels, but also adjusts easily from a counter height (26.5") to a bar height (31") with a lever that activates a gas cylinder. While utility strongly determines the form of this unique stool, it also has a visual lightness that creates the illusion of freedom from gravity. The Azumi Design Studio has brought innovation to a range of products, running the gamut from sub woofer speakers to salt and pepper dispensers, combining fine craftsmanship with an adventurous grasp on the avant garde. Made in Italy.

• Contract-quality seat suited to both commercial and residential environments.
• In the permanent collection at the Victoria & Albert Museum.