At North Carolina State University, students recently took center stage in a chair design competition hosted by the College of Natural Resources and guided by Professor Rico Ruffino. The challenge? Design and build a functional, original chair using Columbia Forest Products plywood. The results were inventive, practical, and a testament to the creativity of the next generation of makers.
Student Innovation on Display
Students Bodie Roberts, Griffin Smith, and Sarah Shaffer each brought a unique perspective to their designs:
- A slot-together stool/chair hybrid optimized for compact living
- A kerfed chair featuring built-in storage — practical and modern
- A versatile Adirondack-style chair that transforms into a rocking chair
These designs didn’t just showcase technical skill — they reflected sustainable thinking, multifunctional design, and a deep understanding of material use.
The students used Columbia Forest Products’ PureBond® plywood — a formaldehyde-free product manufactured in Old Fort, North Carolina, from sustainably harvested, U.S.-grown hardwood. Known for its environmental performance and indoor air quality benefits, PureBond® offers a safer, renewable alternative to conventional plywood. The use of PureBond®, a soy-based adhesive, in these wood products ensured a non-toxic, formaldehyde-free material for the students to work with.
Columbia Forest Products decision to use the PureBond® was driven by both environmental and health considerations. Formaldehyde, commonly used in wood adhesives, is a known carcinogen and can cause significant health issues, ranging from respiratory problems to cancer. Using the resin from U.S. grown soybeans provides a safer and sustainable alternative.
By working with responsibly sourced materials, students gained hands-on experience with products that support sustainable forestry and American manufacturing. Events like this provide valuable insight into material lifecycles and demonstrate how smart choices at the design phase can lead to healthier outcomes for people and the planet.
This competition proved that the future of design is in good hands. With access to renewable materials and a drive to innovate, students at NC State are building more than just chairs — they’re shaping the next chapter of sustainable design.