A portable, compact folding furniture piece (10) constructed as a seat or table is configured for convenient storage. The folding furniture piece comprises an object support assembly (24) that is configured for operative connection to a mounting structure (12) and includes a spring mechanism (40, 42) securing together as a flexible unit a support mount (36), an articulated vertebral column (26), and a support base (38). The spring mechanism exhibits flexibility properties such that the object support assembly assumes at rest an unfolded state and, in response to an externally applied bending force, assumes a folded state. In the unfolded state, the vertebral column is substantially straight to provide a closed support surface (44). In the folded state, the vertebral column is curved to provide a raised, open support surface on which an object can rest. Depending on the embodiment of the furniture piece, the object can be a person or thing.