Object of the Week: Senufo Beds (and Stools)

WHAT IS IT?

Senufo beds are named after the Senufo people of the Ivory Coast, who hand-carve these bench-like pieces from solid blocks of wood. The carvings are somewhat raw, as you can usually see individual grooves from the tools used. The four legs are tapered, there is commonly a raised headrest, and there are sometimes even two indentations that serve as heel rests.

Traditionally, they were used as beds/resting areas. Some may also have been used for funeral ceremonies, which, as much as I LOVE the look of these... would you ever have something in your home that a dead body laid upon?? The few shops I have seen these in have sworn that they were never used in funerals, but still not so sure I could get my husband on board with this one, despite its understated and striking design.

HOW TO STYLE

The backrest is usually slightly curved, but many people nowadays use them as coffee tables and benches.

GENERAL TIPS

—Place at the end of a bed, against a wall as a bench, or use as a coffee table.

—With it’s versatile nature, it can steer classic or modern, farmhouse or glam.

ALTERNATIVE OPTION - SENUFO STOOLS

…Too large for your space? Senufo stools are smaller, yet equally beautiful. Many people use them in bathrooms, as side tables, or for extra seating in living rooms. Use a pair at the end of your bed in place of a bench.

EXAMPLES

Use them as coffee tables:

And benches:

*Proof it can lean rustic or glam & modern...

Alternatively, place two stools together:

In the living room...

Or at the end of a bed...

Use one stool as a side table:

Use Senufo benches and stools in covered outdoor spaces:

And add that rustic touch to your bathroom...

(*anyone know how well they hold up in damp spaces...?)

...Or you know, use them as stool and (day)beds... go figure.

WHERE TO BUY:

Chairish and 1stDibs have a range of options.

Khayni, Africanologie, and Jayson Home also have some solid options.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS:

While not Senufo stools, Restoration Hardware has a collection of unique African stools for sale.

Anthropologie and Lulu and Georgia also have teak stools available, with tapered legs reminiscent of Senufo stools.