Turnstone by Steelcase Buoy, Scarlet Fabric, Grey

Color	Grey
Frame Material	Plastic
Seat Material Type	Plastic
Brand	Steelcase
Seat Height	22.75 Inches

18" diameter upholstered cap - available in 6 fabrics to add color to your space
Built-in handle - used to adjust height and easier to carry
Plastic canister - easy cleaning and maintenance
Pneumatic cylinder height adjustment - 5 1/2" range to fit all sizes
Curved base - rocks to encourage active sitting

From the manufacturer

Features and benefits

18 inches diameter upholstered cap
built-in handle - used to adjust height and easier to carry
pnuematic cylinder height adjustment - 5 1/2 inches range to fit all sizes
curved base - rocks to encourage active sitting
plastic canister - easy cleaning and maintenance

Buoy

A unique riff on the stool with dozens of uses, Buoy embodies the spirit of turnstone. Smart, portable, colorful, fun, and slightly askew, Buoy stands at a slight 5 degree angle. Tilt even further —up to 12 degrees— to lean into your work. Change the seat height up to five inches with a quick lever pull. Travels well, works everywhere.

Build your Buoy

Designed for today’s movers and shakers, Buoy is a seat that’s as active as you are. Personalize your Buoy with a color combination that’s just for you. So go ahead, have a seat—Buoy is a moving experience.

As active as you are

Moving is good for you, which is why Buoy swivels, turns, tilts, and moves up and down. It’s active sitting that keeps our bodies active and our minds sharp. So go ahead, have a seat. With six bold colors, and endless ways to personalize, Buoy is a moving experience.

Sitting. it's only the beginning

After researching multiple small businesses, we noticed something: people are mobile, even when seated. Whether you’re a knee bouncer, a pencil tapper, or you’ve got jazz hands, Buoy lets you move freely. So feel free to pull up a seat. Or lean in. Or hunker down. Mobility matters.

Style Name:Scarlet | Color:Grey

Turnstone Buoy by Steelcase has five Inch of height adjustability and the freedom to wobble, swivel and tilt make Buoy an instant classic. Grab this active seat and go when creativity demands portability, or stay put at your desk for high focus tasks. You'll love the sleek style and simple lines of turnstone's modern take on a seat.

Q:

Does the height adjustment go up or down from desk height? Thank you!

Answer: The chair's height range is large. I'm 5'3'' and the lowest height allows my feet to sit flat on the ground with knees bent 90 degrees. With that in mind, I'd say that the chair's height ranges from well below normal desk height to well above desk height. With my shortness, I have setup my desk at below 'normal' and can comfortably sit with my feet on the ground.

Answer: yes. it is adjustable.

Q:

Is it possible to add caster wheels to the bottom of this stool? I'm looking for something more than the "doctor's office stool".

Answer:

Answer: No, adding casters would not be practical, or perhaps not even possible. The base of this is concave, not flat. The stool rocks back and forth and sitting on it closely resembles sitting on an ergonomic balance ball. It helps with better posture and core strength. Even if casters could be added, they would erase the stool's movement and the benefits to posture and core.

Answer: No. Even if you could figure out a way to do so, it would ruin what is great about this chair, that it moves and tips with you. I use mine in the office, without a plastic mat under it, and it slides rather easily. Now I'm not sliding all over the office, but it is somewhat mobile as is. You should see if anyone near you sells these, so you can try one out. That's what sold me.

Answer: No, there is nothing on the bottom of the "buoy" to attach casters to.

Q:

What shade of grey is the main body, not the fabric or base? It looks light in the pic. Trying to match a steel case desk

Answer: Hello,

Q:

What is the weight limit for the Buoy?

Q:

I'm highly sensitive to strong glues & flame retardants in upholstery of traditonal chairs (new or used). Does this have a "treated fabric" smell?

Answer: I, too, am highly sensitive to chemical smells. Although this chair came wrapped in plastic, which would trap in any smells, I did not notice any even when I first opened it.

Answer: I've had mine a while but don't recall any smell at all

Answer: I didn't smell any off-gassing smell,

Q:

Does this chair have a weight limit? I am 5'10 and about 280

Answer: max weight 250 lbs. I'm getting this for my daughters birthday. I found the specifications. minimum height 17.25" Max height 22.75" the diameter of the seat is 18"

Answer: I don't know the answer to your question. I might suggest contacting Steelcase. 1.800.516.3454

Answer: you will be fine at that.

Q:

The ad says "5 1/2 inch range" and "22.75 inch seat height". Am I correct that means the range is 17.25 to 22.75 inches from the floor?

Q:

Does it smell?

Answer: Seriously?! No, it does not smell.

Answer: Not at all.

Q:

How tall can it expand to?

Answer: Approximately 22 inches.

Q:

Does it have storage space inside?

Answer: Hi, no unfortunately our Buoy do not have have storage space inside. If you want to know more details about the product you can contact our product specialist at +1888-783-3522 option 1. Thank you!!

Answer: Hi C.,

Answer: No, there is no storage space inside.

Answer: No storage, and the worst stool I have ever sat on. I returned mine after a couple days.

Answer: No, as the base is a rocker...

Answer: No it does not.

Q:

Is there a warranty?

Answer: yes these have the Full Steelcase Factory warranty when ordered from BACKSTORE

Answer: Ours are many years old and the warranty may have changed. Sorry I can't help.

Q:

Anyone played pc game on this at home?

Answer: No. But I think it would work

Q:

Can you take the seat off and reupholster it?

Answer: Hi Virginia,

Answer: Nope, you may not require to do it. If you want you may tighten a cover to the seat.

Answer: Not easily. You would have to be creative

Q:

Howdy! I have a stealcase leap v2 chair and I"m looking for a decent ottoman/hassock to put my feet up. Is the fabric top sturdy enough for feet? thks

Answer: It's very sturdy...I weigh 200 pounds and sit on this all day. Keep in mind the base is rounded, so it would be more of a foot rocker than a foot stool.

Answer: This buoy stool could possibly be used as an ottoman in a pinch. However, the top is a thinner fabric pad which may not be very comfortable. Additionally, the stool rocks and rotates which would probably not provide a lot of stability for use as an ottoman.

Answer: The buoy is study enough for feet, depending on the feet. If you have some dirt road,backcountry, toe nail tapping across the tile as go feet, seek alternative coverings. If you do have these feet and still want to enjoy the sweet swivel action of the buoy,put down a throw pillow 1st.

Q:

Is the grey body color a dark blue grey or a warmer taupe color grey?

Answer: Hi SKR,

Answer: Neither. It’s dark grey or space black

Answer: grey

Q:

Are there replacement cushions available?

Answer: No, the cushions are not available anymore as a replacement part.

Answer: I don’t know if replacement cushions are available. I have 3 of them for over 3 yrs now and they are still like new! I love them!

Q:

Does it work on carpet?

Answer: Hi Gus

Answer: Yes it mill work on carpet.

Answer: Yes, it works on carpet.

Answer: I prefer it on carpet versus our LVP flooring. If there is any dirt between the solid floor and the bottom of the buoy chair, you may hear a small grinding noise.

Answer: yes you can use on the carpet. BACKSTORE

Answer: Yes. I have no problem with mine on a carpeted surface.

Answer: Yes, mine are in my classroom and it’s carpeted.

Answer: Yes

Q:

What is the maximum weight recommended?

Q:

Which fabric grade is the licorice, graphite and tornado?

Answer: The fabric grade is durable and excellent...however there is very little padding, and the product is uncomfortable...I am looking for an appropriate seat cushion to use with the product...

Q:

I just got the chair, is anyone else experiencing a squealing noise when you swivel ? I am using it on carpet

Answer: HI Omar, I have been using the Turnstone for almost 2 years now. Never experienced any noise.

Answer: No. I am not hearing any noise when the chair swivels.

Answer: I'd be happy to help you out with that question! Buoy shouldn't make any noise, so you need to contact Amazon Customer Support. Please let me know if you have any other questions or comments.

Answer: We have at least 30 in our school and no, there should be no squealing noises. There should be no noise at all.

Q:

Where is this product made?

Answer: The design probably came out from the big brains in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The rest of the materials came from the blood,sweat and tears(also the broken plastic pens and pencils lost in the design battle of this majestic piece).

Answer: Made in Michigan, USA.

Q:

I have laminated floor the plastic in the bottom will damage my floor ?

Answer: I can’t answer with 100% certainty, but I would think that as long as you keep the bottom clean so nothing can scratch the flooring, it should be fine. You could also get some inexpensive little rugs to put under the stools.

Answer: Not sure. I have mine on office type low nap carpet. It scoots just fine on carpet though. So I would say you would be fine.

Derekcleric : Five Stars

These Chairs are office game changers!

David Barker : Super comfy

Hated it at first but now i really like it

Nats : Fun and functional

This is the most sat on chair in my office. I have it for people sitting alongside my desk and it makes my staff very happy.

Justin A DiMatteo : Only chair I use

It takes some getting used to. You’ll never want to sit on anything else again after.

Alex Campbell : Five Stars

I love this thing.

MJT : Five Stars

coolest thing ever!!

Sandra : activity at the desk

While Office chairs tend to be uncomfortable, even stifling when having to sit for long periods of time at a desk. This stool, because of the "rocker base" allows for movement and light exercise. I can even lean back for abdominal crunch now and then. The only complaint I have is it needs a bit more cushion on the seat.

AmazonGirl : Do youself a favor and buy this chair!

I LOVE this chair! I have a bad hip and sitting for hours in a regular office chair causes me pain. This chair actually helps put my hip in place. And after a few weeks of use, I notice I am standing taller. As my core continues to strengthen, my posture keeps improving. The Buoy chair is easy to sit on, not like a balance ball chair. It moves with you, not against you. There is ample room on the seat. And I love that I can carry it around the office to meetings!

Amazon Customer : This is one of the coolest chairs ever made!

I love this chair and couldn't be happier! I use it as an office chair, and actually starting using it in small increments just to get used to it. Now, I can sit on it for hours. I will say, too, that I have a number of back and neck conditions, and I'm also someone who is mindful of my posture. This chair is gentle enough for me to use and it's just so much fun! It does help keep my posture straight (although there are ways to sit on it and still slouch), and it definitely engages my muscles in a gentle way. I generally have to be careful with how I move, but it's so neat to have this chair lean with you if you have to reach for something, and it's also fun to rock back and forth, etc. I can feel my muscles engaging (again, in a gentle way), and I love that it promotes active sitting. I will often change the height of it, just to switch it up, and it's easy to slide under my desk for when I switch back to sitting in a "normal" chair. I do have carpet in my office area and I haven't had any issues with the chair sliding or not staying in place when I sit on it. It pretty much stays put. And also please note, that this is a very firm chair. If you're used to sitting on soft, cushioning surfaces, it might take you a while to get used to sitting on this because it's as hard as a rock. It feels like the cushion on this buoy chair is maybe like a quarter of an inch. Luckily, I am used to sitting on firm chairs, so it's not so bad for me. Overall, this is one of the coolest chairs every made. I have already told so many people about it, and I couldn't be happier with this purchase.

Martin W : Great for active sitting; could use more padding

I'm using this as my primary office chair, sitting many hours on some days. It works infinitely better for me than a balance ball, which I've also tried. It turns from side to side easily and rocks ("wobbles") in every direction in a easy natural way, so I can vary the angle of the seat from time to time, or even move/rock continuously as I work. That keeps my back flexible and my circulation moving. It's easy to slide around a bit on the carpeting to move closer or further from my desk, or left and right as needed. The pneumatic height adjustment has a good range, typical of an office chair, and feels solid and smooth (as one would expect from Steelcase). It's also a bit springy, so there's a bit of elastic bounce when sitting down, which also reduces strain. It's an attractive, minimalist modern design.

The one flaw or limitation is that the sitting cushion itself is somewhat thin. I put a folded cotton meditation mat on top to add to the padding, because if I sit on only the chair's cushion for several hours, my sit bones start to get sore. While the pneumatic lift has some springiness, the seat top or cushion itself would benefit from some additional springiness. Adding the meditation mat is an acceptable workaround for me because of the benefits and quality of this "wobble chair," but it does subtract a bit from the cool aesthetics of the chair.

JGH : Awesome chair!

It's funny, because I previously owned a Knoll Chadwick office chair, which really messed up my lower back. My Knoll chair replaced my ergoErgo stool, which helped to build my lower back muscles and was better for me overall. The problem with the stool is that it deflated. Now I own and love the Turnstone Buoy, best of both worlds! It keeps me moving, has relieved my lower back pain, and it's a lot of fun to spin around on. It won't deflate either!

Rhombus : Well Worth the Cost

Took me a few years to pull the trigger given the cost for what amounts to a stylish balance ball. However, I can now say that it was completely worth the cost. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to try a balance ball but would never try a balance ball.

WildCat13 : Great wobble chair!

This is a great stool for active sitting.

Gosh it really wobbles! I originally got it to use for an adjustable height side table for my armchair but did not realize that the base is completely round.

After spilling a few cups of coffee I gave up and gave it to my kid.

I took off a couple of stars for comfort and stability as the padding on top is fairly thin and somehow my tween manages to occasionally fall off, but I still think it's a 5 star product with the real standout feature being it's adjustability followed by how well it's built and the really cool style / colors. If you've ever used stealcase chairs this is right up there with the leap/think for how well built and sturdy if feels.

Picked ours up for half the list price on an amazon deal and it looked and smelled brand new. I'm guessing someone was not happy with how crazy wobbling this can be. If one pops up like that again I'm getting another. Maybe some day I'll figure out how to dewoble it and get my height adjustable side table!

Mary : I like how the stool rocked back and forth and moved ...

I like how the stool rocked back and forth and moved with my movement, but the rocking made it move across the slick floor at work. I had to keep dragging myself back over in front of my monitor. Also, there was not much padding. It was okay for about 20 minutes, but after 12 hours at work my butt was so sore. I sent mine back.

Amazon Customer : This is one of the coolest chairs ever made!

I love this chair and couldn't be happier! I use it as an office chair, and actually starting using it in small increments just to get used to it. Now, I can sit on it for hours. I will say, too, that I have a number of back and neck conditions, and I'm also someone who is mindful of my posture. This chair is gentle enough for me to use and it's just so much fun! It does help keep my posture straight (although there are ways to sit on it and still slouch), and it definitely engages my muscles in a gentle way. I generally have to be careful with how I move, but it's so neat to have this chair lean with you if you have to reach for something, and it's also fun to rock back and forth, etc. I can feel my muscles engaging (again, in a gentle way), and I love that it promotes active sitting. I will often change the height of it, just to switch it up, and it's easy to slide under my desk for when I switch back to sitting in a "normal" chair. I do have carpet in my office area and I haven't had any issues with the chair sliding or not staying in place when I sit on it. It pretty much stays put. And also please note, that this is a very firm chair. If you're used to sitting on soft, cushioning surfaces, it might take you a while to get used to sitting on this because it's as hard as a rock. It feels like the cushion on this buoy chair is maybe like a quarter of an inch. Luckily, I am used to sitting on firm chairs, so it's not so bad for me. Overall, this is one of the coolest chairs every made. I have already told so many people about it, and I couldn't be happier with this purchase.

Vanessa Barry : Great Item!

Great Item!

Frank : Works well.

My son loves this and has now used if for 6 months. It looks terribly uncomfortable to me, but if this is all that it takes to make a 15 year old happy, it was a great buy.

Joyce : Great stool!

These stools are fantastic

Cara L Woodham : Perfect fix if you have lower back/nerve/compression pain from sitting in your regular desk chair!

This stool is amazing. Opted for this instead of a standing desk at work and am so,so happy with it.
I get a ton of compression/nerve pain in my lower back from sitting - sometimes causing my lower back to lock up upon standing (super painful). Standing for long periods can also cause this depending on the surface or my shoes.
The buoy made all the difference and actually lets me stretch my lower back in a really helpful way. Total life-changer for me, It also builds core strength and is great if you like to fidget while you concentrate.

Frank : Works well.

My son loves this and has now used if for 6 months. It looks terribly uncomfortable to me, but if this is all that it takes to make a 15 year old happy, it was a great buy.

Mary : I like how the stool rocked back and forth and moved ...

I like how the stool rocked back and forth and moved with my movement, but the rocking made it move across the slick floor at work. I had to keep dragging myself back over in front of my monitor. Also, there was not much padding. It was okay for about 20 minutes, but after 12 hours at work my butt was so sore. I sent mine back.

brigett florentine : Amazing. Helix bad back, core strength and posture. Better than a desk chair.

I say for hours on one of these at the Cumming Hyundai in Georgia. It was very comfortable, my kid enjoyed it. It is great for posture, bad backs and strengthening your core. I now have one at my desk and I’ve st my dressing table.

CBS : The chair is totally fine. Well constructed and good looking

The chair is totally fine. Well constructed and good looking. I have issues in that I am too low compared to my built in desk which is admittedly very very high.. I have used it about 4 times and unfortunately it doesn't work for me. Past the time for returns so if someone wants it email me at cstack000@hotmail.com and I will sell it to you for $99. Again. perfect chair, bad desk.. ;(

Amazon Customer : Arrived in used condition

Arrived in used condition despite ordering a new version. The bottom was scuffed and there is a stain on the fabric. The box was clearly re taped. It’s a shame because the product is otherwise great.

Scott Roberts : Who doesn't love a Buoy

These are the best wobble chairs ever. Not only are they durable, but the hight is adjustable. I'm a middle school teacher, and I've spend my own money to get these chairs for my classroom. Heck, I even sit on one at home I love them so much. They're very durable and people of all ages love sitting on them.

AZBryan : Love it!

A friend has had one for years and when it was time for a new office chair, I knew I wanted to try this. Takes up so much less space. Takes a little getting accustomed to, but all good after a couple days.

Real Deal with Bill McNeal : Love it so much, I own 2

I love this thing. It's comfortable, stylish and well made. Note that it does take time to build up endurance to being able to sit without slouching for extended multi-hour sessions. One aspect that I love about the Buoy is that it easily swivles, allowing you to turn from side to side. That's Handy for when someone walks in the room behind you and you want to turn and face them.

naz : Great look, fun & comfortable.

Love it. It looks cool, it’s comfortable & great for your hips. When I seat long hours behind computer I try to exercise my hips.

AmazonGirl : Do youself a favor and buy this chair!

I LOVE this chair! I have a bad hip and sitting for hours in a regular office chair causes me pain. This chair actually helps put my hip in place. And after a few weeks of use, I notice I am standing taller. As my core continues to strengthen, my posture keeps improving. The Buoy chair is easy to sit on, not like a balance ball chair. It moves with you, not against you. There is ample room on the seat. And I love that I can carry it around the office to meetings!

CBS : The chair is totally fine. Well constructed and good looking

The chair is totally fine. Well constructed and good looking. I have issues in that I am too low compared to my built in desk which is admittedly very very high.. I have used it about 4 times and unfortunately it doesn't work for me. Past the time for returns so if someone wants it email me at cstack000@hotmail.com and I will sell it to you for $99. Again. perfect chair, bad desk.. ;(

Serena Riesgaard : While only having for 8 months, the fabric cushion ...

While only having for 8 months, the fabric cushion has come unattached to the top. I might try to hot glue, but still...

Buyer : Great deal

Love the seat

JGH : Awesome chair!

It's funny, because I previously owned a Knoll Chadwick office chair, which really messed up my lower back. My Knoll chair replaced my ergoErgo stool, which helped to build my lower back muscles and was better for me overall. The problem with the stool is that it deflated. Now I own and love the Turnstone Buoy, best of both worlds! It keeps me moving, has relieved my lower back pain, and it's a lot of fun to spin around on. It won't deflate either!

Amazon Customer : Arrived in used condition

Arrived in used condition despite ordering a new version. The bottom was scuffed and there is a stain on the fabric. The box was clearly re taped. It’s a shame because the product is otherwise great.

Kelly Sidebottom : Great chair for all ages. Have a wiggly child who needs a time out to read a book? This chair fits the bill.

I use this for everything. At work this is all I use. At home it is under my puzzle table, my dinning table and it is great for knitting and spinning wool because you need to move when knitting and spinning occasionally and this chair does that for you and I don't get a sore back at all when I sit for long sessions. I also love playing gigs with this chair. No arms to get in the way of the guitar and I can move as I play and when the song has a jump to it this chair moves with me!

Rhombus : Well Worth the Cost

Took me a few years to pull the trigger given the cost for what amounts to a stylish balance ball. However, I can now say that it was completely worth the cost. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to try a balance ball but would never try a balance ball.

Nicholas S : Amazing chair, but It showed all Black and when ...

Amazing chair, but It showed all Black and when it arrived it was Canary. Sat on it and decided, I didn't care about the color this things amazing!

Gatorade : Good alternative to balance ball chair

My workplace has this chair and it stood the test of abuse and time. It is an expensive chair, but for my work I spend most of the day sitting. I always have the doubt of the longevity of the balance ball chair.

Reason I took 1 star off is that I ordered the white, but received a black chair.

Joyce : Great stool!

These stools are fantastic

WildCat13 : Great wobble chair!

This is a great stool for active sitting.

Gosh it really wobbles! I originally got it to use for an adjustable height side table for my armchair but did not realize that the base is completely round.

After spilling a few cups of coffee I gave up and gave it to my kid.

I took off a couple of stars for comfort and stability as the padding on top is fairly thin and somehow my tween manages to occasionally fall off, but I still think it's a 5 star product with the real standout feature being it's adjustability followed by how well it's built and the really cool style / colors. If you've ever used stealcase chairs this is right up there with the leap/think for how well built and sturdy if feels.

Picked ours up for half the list price on an amazon deal and it looked and smelled brand new. I'm guessing someone was not happy with how crazy wobbling this can be. If one pops up like that again I'm getting another. Maybe some day I'll figure out how to dewoble it and get my height adjustable side table!

LBLI : Great for balance but so uncomfortable.

I have to edit this review after living with this for a while. Because of the minuscule padding, as I already shared, I added my ergonomic back cushion on top of this and over time for whatever reason it caused major back pain, the first I've had in months!!

So it can't be used for longer than 20 minutes without the cushion and can't be used long term with the cushion, therefore it's useless and a complete waste of money! Watch for it on eBay and yes I'm angry and disappointed but being tactful here.

ORIGINAL REVIEW:

Design 4 stars
Functionality 4 stars
Comfort 1 star

The pros: At 6' 3 it adjusts well for me. Simple and clean design, doesn't knock you out but looks good enough.

The cons: With less than 1/2 an inch of padding this is the worst thing I've ever sat on! Literally 15 minutes later I was starting to feel uncomfortable so I had to put my my memory foam cushion on it, which not only ruins the aesthetic but makes me regret paying $230 for this.

I won't ever buy another.

Tee : Spin me right round baby, right round.

Spin me right round baby, right round. Is what my (11yr old) autistic son said after sitting on this. I originally bought this as my computer chair, but it has since been taken hostage by my children. We all love the fact that the bouy allows us movement. However, it has become a highly fought after territory:whom can take over the buoy by rocking the other off, who can make it lean the farthest without falling off while being pulled at and most importantly who can push the other off without being noticed. All this happens while I fondly look on at once was my seat of calming luxury..Only having sat on this one once, I can say that it was a fidgety persons dream seat. I can go up and down, also rock..chefs kiss of excellence. Yet, if you may be +6ft tall it maybe a little uncomfortable. Or if your booty be banging, it might be a hangin.

brigett florentine : Amazing. Helix bad back, core strength and posture. Better than a desk chair.

I say for hours on one of these at the Cumming Hyundai in Georgia. It was very comfortable, my kid enjoyed it. It is great for posture, bad backs and strengthening your core. I now have one at my desk and I’ve st my dressing table.

Turnstone by Steelcase Buoy, Scarlet Fabric, Grey - review and price compare 2025

Product overview

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From the manufacturer