Norco, CA, June 4, 2025 - Inspired by the organic beauty of seed pods, the Kernel seating element brings a natural elegance to any environment. Developed in partnership with designer John Cook, the Kernel line’s smooth silhouettes echo the shapes found in nature, seamlessly blending into any landscape. Nestled within a wooded park, placed along a bustling city street, or enhancing a quiet garden, these seating elements create an inviting space for people to gather, rest, and connect.

Prior to the line expansion, the Kernel was available in two sizes: One individual seat, and another that could accommodate up to two people. The latest innovations provide landscape designers with a kit of parts they can use to create a harmonious table and chairs set, individual pieces that can stand on their own, and other creative installations.

“The idea was to allow for a lot more versatility with the line, and to give landscape architects more choices,” Cook says. “We create the furniture to help them create the perfect space.”

Cook adds that the main goal of the Kernel line was to offer a softer shape, compared to other river rock-style forms such as QCP’s Pebble. To date, it’s been specified for various site projects, including the Inside Out attraction at Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, California. 

“Kernel is designed to have a three-sided shape, much like a corn kernel—wider at the bottom and narrower at the top,” he says. “You might even say it's a bit of a teardrop, but it's more of a corn kernel shape, that's where it came from.”

Cook, who works closely with landscape architects on a regular basis, is constantly inspired by what can help his colleagues with public projects, particularly those designed for interestingly shaped spaces. 

“My work is about people first,” he says. “We design it around people first, with the right heights, making sure it’s comfortable to sit on, and that you can move around the piece. As a kid I had a block set, which was the greatest thing ever. Basically, these new Kernels are like blocks for landscape architects.”

Key Features:

• A natural, organic shape that integrates into any landscape
• Works well in both a natural environment or an urban environment
• Comes in both lightweight glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) and our standard reinforced concrete (SRC)
• Available in all our standard colors and finishes, plus custom
• The smooth forms are ergonomic and comfortable to sit on
• Ergonomic seating that supports rest while maintaining a focus on high pedestrian circulation

To see the full Kernel collection, visit our standard product page here.

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