When I set out to create Formi, I knew I couldn't do it alone. I partnered with Vert Design, one of Australia's leading industrial design studios, and together we shaped the range from the ground up. Eloise Cleary, Andrew Simpson and Charlie Payne poured real care into every curve and angle, working closely with physiotherapists, lactation consultants and parents to get it right.

What follows is Vert's own account of how the footstool came to be. The research, the prototyping, and the thinking behind a product made for the one doing the feeding. I'm so proud of what we made together. You can learn more about Vert Design here.

Lana x

“Formi started at 3 am - somewhere between back pain and another desperate google for breastfeeding footstool. Every postnatal expert recommended one. We couldn't find one that worked - or looked good in our home. So we made it.”  - Founder, Lana Havenhand 

Vert was engaged by Lana to design a range of ergonomic and adjustable feeding tools. While most products on the market focus solely on the baby, Formi is designed to prioritise the wellbeing of parents, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. The aim was to make feeding more comfortable and connected by supporting upright posture, reducing tension, and promoting relaxation. The Formi range helps address common challenges such as slouching, back and neck pain, hip strain, and restless feeds. The first release in the range is a footstool, with additional feeding products to follow.Key considerations included materiality, durability, and a design that integrates seamlessly into modern home interiors. 

Early research and engagement of experts provided a strong foundation. The design needed to feel trusted and safe, while also being beautiful and approachable. Concepts balanced furnishing details with the technical, and therapeutic benefits with style. Various designs with low, medium, and high adjustment levels were explored to accommodate different angles and preferences. A low level of adjustment was selected for simplicity and ease of use.

The range was developed with ergonomic principles and clinical expertise at its core, with Vert undertaking an extensive prototyping process to explore forms and angles. Multiple prototype rounds were reviewed by physiotherapists, lactation consultants, Vert, and Lana. Feedback was provided on the shapes, angles, degree of symmetry, and density for optimal posture and support. The intention was to ensure a comfortable and neutral feeding position that would reduce strain and fatigue for the parent. The design balances areas requiring rigidity with areas needing comfort and softness. Based on feedback from experts, Lana, other parents, and later Soft Serve Studio, additional prototypes were developed, tested, and refined. 

Inspired by the principles of a rocking chair, a footrest rocker feature was introduced to encourage circulation and allow gentle movement. Height adjustment was considered, but simplicity was prioritised over mechanical complexity. The design needed to be intuitive and easy to use, even in low light or at night. A subtle adjustment, achieved through the tapered angle, ensures the product is accessible and adaptable for all users.

Formi is an intuitive, ergonomic footstool that lifts the knees, aligns the hips and anchors the parent’s posture in a centred position. It promotes relaxation, distributes weight more evenly and brings the baby closer for an elevated feeding experience. There are no levers or clicks of slipping, with a textured grip detail, and an optional non-slip disc for extra security or slippery floors. Formi footstools wipe clean and are water resistant, durable, hygienic and fabric-free for daily use. The design supports every feeding style, whether breast, bottle, or pumping. It’s compact, easy to clean, and quietly beautiful. Minimalist and modern in form, Formi is designed to feel at home in all spaces, not just the nursery.

This article was written by Vert Design and first published on vertdesign.com.au.