Simply called Library, this happy modular shelving system by Penghao Shan has a lot to offer to a limited space. The design is based on a simple principle: a leaning construction gets more stable as you put more wight on it. A wooden frame is the base of the shelving unit. You can use your freedom of expression to attach containers, a desk component, or shelves. Infinitely adjustable, Library can also be quickly disassembled and stored flat.
St. Louis based design studio Artifox has unveiled two space-saving items that compliment each other beautifully – desk and bike rack. Designers call their creations ‘artifacts’, emphasizing the uniqueness of their design: “We believe that as our world changes – so should the spaces we live in. That’s why we’re dedicated to the evolution of modern artifacts – adapting them for your life.” Both pieces are offered in the choice of walnut or maple wood. The desk comes in two heights, sitting and standing. It also features two-level cord control (compartment for your outlets and fasteners for keeping the remaining visible cordage neat), built-in docking for your devices, writable surface, adjustable legs, and a hook for your bag or headphones. The minimalist rack is made to look equally good with or without a bike. Both pieces are available for purchase here.
I am not the sort of person who can pass by versatile storage design. Aitio storage boxes, by Finnish brand iittala, definitely caught my attention. Sturdy and beautiful, the pieces are made from powder coated steel and work equally well in any room. Aitio boxes come in a variety or shapes and colors. Available for purchase here.
Cologne based design studio Kaschkasch created this space-saving beauty, called Fju. When folded down it serves as a small workspace. Folded up Fju changes it‘s appearance and transforms into a slim storage shelf. Fantastic.
Kitchen that is the size of a luggage? Yes, please. Perfect for studio apartments, this creation from Ana Arana provides an island for cooking and eating anywhere in your home. All essential components of a traditional kitchen are stacked in one small and versatile piece. Here is how designer describes it: “As a response to this growing trend of compact changeable lifestyles Gali is a revision of the kitchen. It is an essential part in the house but sometimes it occupies a space that not everyone would use in the same way. Gali is the intention of letting each individual distribute their space as wanted, having everything necessary to cook when needed but allowing the living space to embrace new possibilities.”
Land Peel is a space-saving concept furniture piece, developed by the Japanese industrial design student Shin Yamashita from the Kyoto Institute of Technology. Based on the traditional tatami design, the piece provides a platform surface that can be easily changed by “peeling off” the elements as you need them. The versatile mat can be easily turned into a desk, lounging or dining area, couch and more. I love this idea.
This elegant design was created by French studio Alki. A wall mounted modular system, called Zutik, allows you to incorporate multiple storage and display items on one solid wooden beam. The piece includes a mirror, some hooks, a ladder that doubles as a bookcase, and a variety of pin boards and shelves. You can reconfigure the elements with ease to achieve the desirable option. A perfect idea for a typical little studio, where the entryway blends with the rest of the apartment.
Manolo is a multi-functional storage frame, created by Italian designer Ilario Branca. It features a simple grid of 64 knobs, that hold various accessories. You can turn this piece into a shelf, bookcase, coat hanger, bedside table and more. Manolo comes in two orientations, square and rectangular, and in four colors, green, yellow, brown, and white. The product includes two shelves and a hanger. Additional accessories are also available. Check out the video after the break to see more uses of this clever storage. Available for purchase here.
This sculptural and visually appealing shelf, called Små Ting, was designed specifically for the little items that seem to always clutter our spaces, especially in tiny dwellings. Designer Johanna Paulsson describes her idea this way: “Our need for storage is personal and constantly changing. Today we often live in small spaces, have many things AND live a hectic life. My desire is to ease the temporary storage of small things that occurs in everyday life.” I love the versatility of the shelf, it can find its place in any area of your apartment. It can also be fitted with a mirror or hooks, but I quite like the look of it without any additions. Just a piece of wood, rolled to hold things. Simple, functional, and aesthetically beautiful.
