The Stratum Bench from Bernhardt suspends an upholstered seat with padded arms within an open, polished nickel steel framework that creates geometric boundaries around the soft elements. The metal structure forms clean, rectangular planes on either side, incorporating a center stretcher for added stability. The upholstered components overlap the steel sides, blurring the line between frame and cushioning. Polished nickel surfaces reflect light across the angular framework, while the fabric elements provide tactile contrast against the hard metal geometry.