Even in the absence of space and green thumb, there is still hope for growing an urban herb garden. This planter, created by two Dutch designers Nathan Wierink and Tineke Beunders is completely fool-proof. It can be attached right to the window via suction cups. The pots are transparent to allow maximum sunlight. What a clever idea!
This minimalistic kitchen workstation is a student project by Sébastien Cluzel of the École Supérieure d’Art et Design de Saint Étienne. The piece, called Culinary Landscape, is comprised of four essential parts – preparation area, water station, cutting board, and stove. Everything you can realistically need for cooking is incorporated in this design – cutlery, cookware and even herbs. The designer used interesting and innovative materials; thus, the sink is made from Ductal (a fiber reinforced form of concrete), and the stove is constructed out of soapstone. Other materials include wood, laminated plywood and cons (oak and pine), stainless steel. All are sustainable and functional choices.
The subtle humor of these pieces made me look. The Inside-Out storage furniture from FreshWest design studio features an unusual decorative approach – while concealing the contents inside, it also showcases their contours on the outside. The line includes bathroom and drink cabinets. Made from an aluminum composite, the pieces can be painted in different colors. The design on the doors is routed into a paint finish, allowing the silver edge of the aluminum to shine through.
Fun, flat-pack and DIY – this table has it all. Designed by Patrick Carmody and Kfir Shetrit of OCD (which stands for Obsessively Crafted Design), the Mudo table is a great example of a 3d structure that can fold completely flat when stored or transported. The piece is cut out of a 1/4″ thick sheet of Masonite and covered with plastic laminate on both sides. The manufacturing process leaves very little waist, which can give you satisfaction of owning an eco-conscious piece of furniture. Not to mention the joy of assembling it yourself. Hard to beat that…
This delightful project belongs to Tor Clausen, who decided that silent pieces of furniture aren’t just larky enough. His designs feature musical instruments (bongs, chimes, bells, drums, cymbals, etc.) underneath the wooden surfaces. The line ranges from chairs and benches to chests and tables, and each of them can be played. Watch the video and see for yourself. You might discover you too have an ear for designy furniture…
There is a theory that standing while working at the computer is good for our health. There is also a theory that the opposite is true. While this great egg controversy is taking place, young French designer Jérémy Guénolé created a desk that allows to alternate the two approaches. The piece, called Postures, features different levels and encourages movement, which cannot be bad for anyone. ‘Starting from different work situations of a creative, I drew a range of hybrid furnitures that comply with the concept of wellness.’ – says the designer.
This clever folding stool by Jack Smith was recently presented at the Royal College of Art show in London. The stool folds away neatly when lifted by one side. When the piece is unfolded, three hinged legs fit perfectly into a y-shaped hole in the seat. As weight is placed on the frame, the legs get pinched together creating a stronger join. So, the heavier the load the stronger the stool. Brilliant!
Tumbleweed Tiny House Company was established by Jay Shafer, who practices the art of living small like no other human being. Jay plans and builds tiny houses (some of which are smaller than 90 square feet!). You can buy it ready made or build it from plans yourself. All Jay’s creations are van-compatible and can be transported to the new address at a moment’s notice. Truly efficient, eco-conscious, nomad living. Check out the videos below for space-saving and lifestyle-changing ideas.
London based designer Andrew Millar created this fun storage/seating hybrid, called Teddy Bag. Made from 100% natural wool material, the piece is completely recyclable and biodegradable. In addition to its obvious eco-friendliness, the item wins many space-saving points. Envisioned as flexible storage for kid’s room, the Teddy Bag holds clothes and soft toys, promoting tidiness at an early age. It can also be incorporated into an adult interior (which is to say – I want one).
The Piano hanger, designed by Patrick Seha for the Belgian company Feld, is completely flat when not in use. When you need to hang something – you can unfold numerous wardrobe hooks on the different levels of the panel (so, the piece is child-friendly as well). The fold mechanism functions according to a simple principle – when one side is pressed down, the other one moves upwards. Just like a piano…
