Little X Step Stool by MSDS Studio
The arrival of a child changes a family from the way they live to the way they work.
Based in Toronto, Canada, Jonathan Sabine and Jessica Nakanishi are the founders of MSDS Studio. With Jonathan’s background in Scandinavian furniture design and Jessica’s Japanese heritage and passion for spatial design, their work combines Northern European and Japanese minimalism. Their designs prioritise the beauty of materials and the deep connection between objects and the spaces they inhabit.
From Designers to Parents
For years, we followed the work of MSDS, admiring their ability to create pieces for global design houses. We knew we wanted to collaborate, but it wasn't until Jonathan and Jessica became parents themselves that the partnership truly took shape.
Parenthood gave these two designers a fresh perspective on children’s furniture. Like many parents, they realised that while a step stool is a household essential, the market was filled with bright, plastic options that didn't fit their home’s aesthetic. They decided to design something better: the Little X Step Stool.
Empowering Independence
"We were tired of the colourful plastic stools on the market", the designers shared. By stripping away unnecessary joints and keeping the structure clean and lean, they created a stool that focuses entirely on the child’s needs.
Most homes are built for adults. For a child, a standard sink or counter can feel like a mountain. This often leads to frustration-no child wants to wait for an adult's help when they feel ready to do it themselves.
The Little X Step Stool is a reliable helper for these everyday moments:
- The perfect height: With two levels (18.5cm and 13.7cm), it is designed for children aged 3+ to climb safely.
- Mobility: Whether in the kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom, it is light enough to be moved wherever independence is needed.
A small step up for their feet is a giant leap for their confidence.
A Piece for the Whole Family
While designed with children in mind, the Little X Step Stool quickly became a favourite for everyone in the home. Its solid white oak construction and 'X' structure provide stability that is suitable as a child's stool and as a multi-purpose piece of furniture.
- Entryway: Use it as a steady bench for putting on shoes.
- Living room or bedroom: It works perfectly as a minimalist side table for books or a cup of tea.
- Green spaces: Use it as a tiered plant stand to create a mini indoor garden.
- Library or kitchen: It provides that extra bit of height needed to reach the top shelf.
MSDS Studio believes that furniture shapes the space it lives in. By using high-quality, child-friendly materials and a timeless design, the Little X Step Stool doesn't just help a child reach the sink-it improves the living environment for the entire family.
