This flexible bookcase, called Squaring, has been created by Korean designer Lee Sehoon. The piece is comprised of nine square units that are hinged together in a circle. Thanks to this unusual contraction, Squaring can expand from the initial neat grid mode to a number of dynamic shapes, thus increasing its storing capacity. It is also interesting to observe how unequal wight distribution changes the appearance of the bookcase, making it an interactive object, capable of unexpected transformation. Check out the video after the break to see Squaring in action.
Higher Ground is a name of the cool multifunctional bookcase by Karen King. A rather traditional piece at first glance, it has a hidden convenience – a pull-out ladder. The bookcase is tall enough to make the top shelf a stretch, so the ladder features just three steps – all that is needed to reach it. While closed, the ladder sits flush and rungs align seamlessly with the lower shelves. The handholds and custom sliding brackets make the ladder easy to open and close, while felt under the feet protects your floor. What a clever idea!
As If From Nowhere is the name of this innovative collection by Orla Reynolds. She offered her witty answer to a design problem of having a set of dining furniture in a small space. Her solution is to incorporate the pieces into a bookcase. The item houses four chairs and two tables that when placed together become a dining table. “It is intended for small living spaces or for those who wish to cater to the unexpected guest,” – says the designer. The bookcase is modular and can be assembled into various configurations. Watch the video below to see the collection unfold.
These modular shelves by Gabi Malacha might look precarious at first glance, but don’t let this impression fool you. A well thought out shelving construction, comprised of several sets of L-shaped wooden components, is being secured in place by screws and rested upon wooden stands. So, in spite of its weightless looks, the unit can withstand a good load of books, DVDs, CDs, periodic marials and small items. And thanks to its modular stacking principle and intuitive assembly method, many configurations can be created, including beautiful tilted ones.
Ukrainian designers Valeriy Kuznetsov, Katerina Kuznetspva and Illarion Karnaukh, all together Decorkuznetsov Sudio, have created this family of dual-functional objects. Called Ushanki (Russian for ‘babushka’ hats), the pieces combine shelving and illumination. Each wooden unit is fitted with a fluorescent lamp, which makes Ushanki perfect as a night stand or an ambient bookcase. The piece comes in three sizes.
2B is a fun bookcase, created by Mexican studio Mob. Its most notable feature is the dynamic between simple classic shelves and rotating colorful dividers. These moving panels allow to accommodate larger items and also create a beautiful backdrop for whatever is displayed on the shelves. The piece comes in walnut or lacquered ash.
This multitasking object, called Scalo and designed by Benedetto Quaquaro for Cerruti Baleri, is not on a cheap side ($2,016.00). But it can do so many things! You can use it as a side or ocasional table, stool, shelving unit or a stepladder. Thanks to the hidden hinges, the transition is easy and seamless. Made from bent plywood, the piece features different colors on the inside. A durable stainless steal stop locks Scalo in both open and closed positions.
This visually pleasing bookcase was designed by Laszlo Rozsnoki, who used layers of rope instead of solid shelves. The piece, called Ropeshelf, presents a hip and flexible alternative to a traditional storage system. The ropes, fastened to a stainless steel frame, can be easily adjusted to accommodate items of various shapes and sizes. This use of materials not only creates a graphical appearance, it also allows to store books and periodicals at an angle, which is the best way to prevent warping.
This elegant modular storage system was created by MDF Italia. Constructed from 6 mm thick MD-wood fibreboards, the Random system can be built in any way you see fit. You choose the height and the layout of your unit, and whether you want the cabinets to be open or closed, free-standing or wall mounted. Shelves fit into the backs through concealed slots, which makes creating your unique design a child’s play. The Random shelving system comes in black and white.
The Libreria ABC by Eva Alessandrini and Italian manufacturer Saporiti – is a modular system, designed to hold books of all heights. Thanks to the specific shelving arrangements, the modules are also capable to resemble letters. The shelves can be arranged into a bookcase, a wall unit, a side or occasional table, free-standing cabinet etc. The configurations, word-like or not, are endless!..
