# Angular African-Inspired Seating The BAN Stool by Hector Esrawe Has a Cultural Impact By Meghan Young | Published 2011-11-17 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ban-stool References: [contemporist](http://www.contemporist.com/2011/11/15/ban-stools-by-hector-esrawe/) & [esrawe](http://www.esrawe.com/) Although the BAN Stool may appear to be inspired by the [minimalist aesthetic associated with modern society](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/utzon-stool), it is actually influenced by the [stools used by African cultures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nick-beens), including those found in America during pre-Hispanic times. Those seats acted as symbols for status, tradition, religion and identity. Nevertheless, the former observation is exactly what will entice people today to introduce the BAN Stool into their own home. The historic aspect simple solidifies that decision. Created by Mexican designer Héctor Esrawe, the BAN Stool collection is not just simple, it is rather organic since each seat is made out of select and certified, [solid walnut, tzalam and beech wood](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/noah-folding-stool). The odd angles and stout support lends to the natural look of each BAN Stool, adding character to it as well. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 0.9/10 - Popularity: 8% | Activity: 10% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **African-inspired Furniture:** Designing furniture inspired by African cultures may create a unique and exotic appeal in the market. - **Organic Design:** Creating furniture with organic and sustainable materials can contribute to making businesses more eco-friendly. - **Minimalist Aesthetic:** Incorporating minimalism in furniture design can create a sleek and modern look, appealing to a broader customer base. ### Where This Applies - **Furniture Manufacturing:** Opportunity to offer a new design for customers who are interested in unique and cultural furniture. - **Sustainable Manufacturing:** Using eco-friendly materials in manufacturing can contribute to sustainable practices and attract eco-conscious customers. - **Home Goods Retail:** Retailers can market these stools as a conversation starter and unique statement piece for their customers' homes. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Sustainable Biophilic Stools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/inspired-by-nature.md) - [Re-Released Sculptural Bar Stools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bend-bar-stool.md) - [Multifaceted Geometric Stools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/stackable-stools.md) - [Sculptural Monochromatic Stools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/monochromatic-stool.md) - [Global Design-Honoring Stool Capsules](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/basurto.md) - [Nature-Inspired Minimal Stools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/capture-the-light.md) - [Handcrafted Stone Stools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pebble-stool.md) - [Modernized Wooden Stool Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/eames-turned-stool.md) - [Ultra-Chic Minimalist Seating Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minimalist-seating-design.md)