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.’
If you are a cooking enthusiast – you will love SpiceCare from TableFare. The manufacturer claims to deliver everything we can possibly want from spice storage. And judging by the looks of the product, it was not an empty promise. I struggle to find one thing they haven’t thought of. The line features clever interlocking design, it is shelf and drawer compatible, each jar has a build-in spoon leveler. You can group spices and print your own labels… Watch the video to see the system in action.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDcq2g84688
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.
An object isn’t generous enough if it only performs one function. And we, urban folks, living in tiny apartments, are especially in need of clever, multifunctional objects. Luckily designers are happy to oblige. Here is an interesting project by Hsiang Wang, called Complete Me, Please! and comprised of three pieces: a broom and dustpan / rubbish bin combination (my personal favorite), a lamp with an integrated fly swatter, and a coat rack with hooks that double as shoehorns.
Here is how the designer explains his vision: ‘Not all objects are easy to store as people might expect. People have no idea how to deal with some objects even though they are useful utensils. The aim of this project is create a series of objects related to the household environment which combine two individual utensils into a single appliance. Each must be bi-functional, pertain to a mutually beneficial relationship, and provide a home for the two component products.’
Accessories, fun as they are, inevitably cost us in space. Unless, in addition to their decorative role they can also perform some functional ones. These pillows from Ronel Jordaan are a good example. Shaped as pebbles and rocks, they can add a nice zen-like touch to your interior. And when extra seating is needed these ‘rocks’ can demonstrate their soft side. Made from 100% wool, hand dyed and hand felted, the rock pillows come in a variety of sizes and shapes.
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…
Manhattan based architect Luke Clark Tyler lives the life of extreme space-saving in his 78 square foot studio. Even though the place can barely house his bed and has no kitchen, Luke does not see living small as a sacrifice. He employed his professional skills to customize this closet-sized dwelling to his needs. Another proof that we, New Yorkers, can endure almost anything for a great location.
Cara De Planta is a modular vertical garden system comprised of series of waterproof pockets. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces (assuming you are lucky enough to have both), these modular segments are easy to install. And because they are stain and drip free – there is no worry that they can mess up your designer wall paint. Each pocket can expand to allow maximum space for roots to develop; and thanks to the clever flap – you can combine different plants in one unit. Finally, with the fully incorporated air-pruning system, even an inexperienced gardener can be confident that Cara De Planta will yield results.
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.
