Flat-pack designs are very popular today, and there is a reason for it. They minimize the manufacturing efforts, reduce shipping costs and allow us to save space. And they also promote creativity. Just look at this collection by Ufuk Keskin! Called Flatobjects, the line consists of three pieces: Typeshelf – a type nerd’s delight and my personal favorite; Timewarp – a wall clock with laser cut numbers on the face that are ready to be bent; and Highrise – a dual function object which can be used as a vase or wall accessory. The collection is currently on display at the New York International Gift Fair until August 18.
This lovely playroom item was designed by Eric Pfeiffer for Offi. The table has a durable chalkboard top, which allows kids to express their artistic spirit. And when our little artists are done with their masterpieces – their supplies can be stored in a bowl in the center. Thus, the piece promotes creativity, sharing and working together, and also being tidy after the playtime is over. The table can be purchased at designstory.com.
(HT Lilsnob)
There is a lot to like about this clever storage unit/home office from Myfab. It has that cool vintage 70s feel to it, its fold-up desk can generate an instant workspace when needed, it can also be put away when the work is done (extra points for space-saving). And it’s orange! The piece is made from MDF with high gloss finish.
Koo is a combination of a baby bassinet and a rocking chair. The product is the latest creation of Lunar studio. It is designed to free young parents from buying too many items (which is the usual trap when the new baby is born). This beautiful and ergonomically correct bassinet turns into a chair by flipping down the seat. And when the baby overgrows this piece of furniture, it can be permanently upcycled to a stylish rocker. Clever and eco-conscious idea.
Here is a great example of dual function done right. The XY chair by Paris based designer Aïssa Logerot can be turned into a low table. And it can be done with one swift pivoting motion – no hustle or muscle required. The chair’s back becomes a tabletop and can hold drinks and appetizers in a party situation, cup of tea, books, and anything else you might need a surface for. The small size of XY makes it perfect for an urban setting.
Bunk beds are a great space-saving solution, but they are very rarely beautiful. The Maja bed from Helsinki based design studio Aalto+Aalto is an exception. Inspired by treehouses, this bed prototype is a true delight for the senses. It is also modular and can be build in several different ways according to your space requirements.
Here is what designers Klaus and Elina Aalto say about their work: ‘We appreciate working on projects that both functionally, esthetically and emotionally bring something new to our material world. Our aim is to create special everyday objects with a strong identity and story.’
This delightful concept belongs to Moscow based designer Kate Pashinova. The Olly stool is an example of collapsible furniture, that folds flat for easy storage. The principle is simple – the base of the stool is a cross-like construction. When unfolded, it gives stability to the structure. And by rotating one of its parts, the folding is achieved. The piece can be hung on the wall or stored in a closet when not in use.
This chair is a looker. Beautifully constructed by Lyon based designer Petit Romain, the piece, called Chaise Leaf, has a fluid continuity to it. It also features storage under the seat. This elegant little shelf can hold a few books, periodicals, an iPad perhaps… Made in a variety of colors, Chaise Leaf can add a happy note to a room. And if you like to read while you eat (one of my vices), this piece can be a nice dining chair too.
Our seating furniture is a notorious clutter magnet. Its demoralizing coziness compels us to pile more and more things closer to our bums, so we don’t need to bother getting up. Design firm Quinze and Milan and backpack manufacturer Eastpak took this desire quite literally and created the Backpack Sofa, a transformable piece of furniture with unlimited storage possibilities. The number of pockets and compartments is impressive and will allow storing books, DVDs, periodicals, iPads, and all other toys and spoils you like to keep close to you. Beautiful and at the same time dangerous idea…
If you know what it feels like to be taking a lot of medications, you also know what ugly clutter they create. That is because your main supply and daily dispensers need to be stored separately. Add to this meds you have to take with you, and you get an overwhelming picture. Not to mention – the very aura of pill bottles has this sickening ‘Sweat November’ doom about it. Luckily this artful storage system, created by young French designer Celine Forestier, can address all of these issues. The collection is comprised of three parts – wall cabinet, weekly pill organizer, and series of handheld single-dose boxes. These components are not only convenient and cover nicely all medical storage phases, they are aesthetically pleasing as well. Thanks to this destigmatizing design, medical supplies can now be comfortably stored at your fingertips.
