No matter how well-equipped your desk is, it rarely has enough space for everything that life throws at you. And we all know how ugly and cumbersome most filing systems are. What we often need is something in between – a smallish, manageable piece with decent storage capacity. Smith by Jonathan Olivares could be just the thing to fit the bill. This attractive multi-purpose storage unit was designed for the overlapping interests of the home and office. Its storage area holds folders, books and other useful items. You can use it alone, on the floor, hanging over a table, or combining more elements together by stacking them. The piece has wheels and can be moved around easily and even used as an extra seat. Made out of painted sheet metal, Smith is durable and light at the same time… I really struggle to find a single detail I would change or add. And it looks like I’m not alone: a few months ago Smith has landed the Compasso d’Oro, Italy’s most prestigious design award given to products.
This idea is apparently so good, not one, but two companies had thought of it. Cubby by Materious (above) and Hooknook by Flip & Tumble (below) are variations of one clever storage solution – a hook that doubles as a small shelf. The item can fit any room and fulfill multiple duties around the house. Perfect for entry areas as a place to hang a scarf or a handbag and store keys at the same time, it will also work near your desk, in the kitchen or bathroom and hold small items or any kind. These little hooks with cubbies inside them are smart and unobtrusive. I also like that, thanks to the volume, they won’t damage coat collars or purse handles with sharp edges.
