This project breaches the gap between lighting and art. These Modular luminaries by Robert Hoffmann not only change shape and light intensity, they create endless number of effects on your wall. Made from aluminum and steel, these cubic fixtures can be manipulated by turning and tilting the surfaces. Check out the video to see Modular in action.
[vimeo http://vimeo.com/21423913]
Squambo – is a modular, multifunctional bookcase from Nintek Design. Based on two differently sized shelving components, the piece can be put together in many different ways. You can build it vertically, horizontally, asymmetrically – the combinations are endless. Apart from book storage, the system will allow you to create wall shelving, media storage, additional seating, even a room divider. And since only two standard panels are used, assembly can be kept simple and the production cost – manageable. Smart stuff!
This elegant table set from 3patas is based on the idea of seamlessly blending three pieces in one. Called 3×3, the set can be arranged in various configurations or neatly combined to form a family. When the smaller tables are being used, the openings can be filled with the perfectly fitting bowls. Here is what the designers say about this unusual project: ‘After researching different users, we found that in many cases, they were living with limited space (such as inner city lofts) and were searching for solutions which could adapt to their various requirements. Whether it be entertaining friends, having a coffee, watching TV or simply eating dinner, the adaptability of 3×3 makes the table an attractive solution for these users.’
Since we are on the subject of kitchen space – here is an interesting idea from German designer Kilian Schindler. His Concept Kitchen, designed for Naber, is a modular system that allows to built various configurations on the same frame. You can combine your basic worktop with either an oven, sink or storage. The basic elements are made from steel and easy to disassemble. They feature pre-drilled grid patterns for the flexible arranging of construction and storage shelves. So, if you decide to move house or remodel the existing one – there is at least one major project you can cross off your to-do your list.
The Clouds coffee table set is a lovely versatile design from Mark Hark. When used as one piece the lines create a textured effect of real clouds. The set may also be separated into three individual pieces and used as a series of occasional tables around the room. Made from oak veneer on high-quality medium density fiberboard (MDF), the Clouds set comes in three colors – white, black and walnut. If they make it in frosted glass – my life will be complete…
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.
This clever shelving system, called One Shelves, was created by Singapore based Studio Juju, a design partnership of Timo Wong and Priscilla Lui. The piece itself wins many space-saving points – it is modular, light (made of powder coated aluminum), can be assembled into multiple configurations, and requires zero tools to build. When not needed, the boxes can be nested together and conveniently stored out of the way. This year Studio Juju was selected to be one of the recipients of the Designers of the Future Award. As winners they were commissioned to create new work to be unveiled at Design Miami/ Basel, Switzerland ’11, which starts tomorrow. I can’t wait to see what they’ve done.
UPDATE: Please visit Design Miami Blog to see all three Designers of the Future installations and watch interviews with the designers.
Matt Brown is a Brooklyn based designer, artist and DJ; and this project, called Pitch Control, derived from his long-term passion for record collecting. The slight pitch allows for records (as well as books or magazines) to lean naturally and avoid warping. Born out of specific function, this leaning storage idea made for a visually stimulating piece. The system consists of identical modules that can be arranged into various configurations. The assembly is easy – the units interlock, and the gravity adds stability to the structure. And because it is designed to fit and withstand records, there is no limit to what the Pitch Control system can handle… Handmade in Philadelphia using high quality birch plywood and stainless steel fasteners, the product can be ordered here.
This furniture collection from Australian company KARTON made me gasp. The pieces are so elaborately designed – I can barely perceive them as temporary solutions. Constructed from high grade corrugated cardboard, the line ranges from seating, dining and sleeping pieces to office furniture and modular storage. No tools and hardware are required to put these objects together. And when not needed, they duly fold flat, just like cardboard should. It is easy to individualize your KARTON furniture too. Paint and varnish only improves the product by creating a protective layer. Genius!
This modular shelving system is called H X B X T for it’s ‘Höhe, Breite and Tiefe’ – hight, widths and depth properties. Created by German studio Philipp Ganter Design, the system can be built in all three directions. The parts of three different sizes are held together by a simple T-shaped connector and can be put together into various configurations. I don’t know about you, but I never have enough of adaptable storage…
