3D Printed Soft Seat — Lilian Van Daal

Biological model: Plant cell structures

Company: Lilian Van Daal

A 3D printed soft seating design by Lilian Van Daal that mimics the cellular structure of plants for ergonomic comfort and material efficiency.

The challenge

Traditional furniture uses excessive material and is uncomfortable or environmentally unsustainable. Seating design could benefit from principles that create strength and comfort with minimal material.

Nature's strategy

Plant cell structures (cellular organization, load distribution)

What was emulated

Cellular architecture for structural efficiency and load distribution

The innovation

3D printed seating using plant cellular structure inspiration for ergonomic and material-efficient design.

Full case study

Lilian Van Daal developed a 3D printed soft seat that uses plant cell structures as inspiration. Plant cells are inherently efficient at distributing loads while maintaining flexibility and comfort. By mimicking the cellular organization found in plant tissues, Van Daal created a seating solution that is lightweight yet supportive. The design uses minimal material while maximizing comfort through biomimetic cellular architecture, reducing manufacturing waste and environmental impact.