This multifunctional modular storage system from J1 Studio can be built in any direction. Called T.Shelf, the product is made up of multiple plywood triangles (the strongest geometric shape). These triangles are connected to one another via simple zipties, which makes the system easy to assemble. The beauty of the T.Shelf is in its flexibility. There is an infinite number of things you can create with it – free standing shelf, wall unit, bookcase, coffee table base, you name it. Very clever.
This versatile piece of furniture, called Tokotoko, can perform several roles in your home. It can serve as a side (or bedside) table, as a stool, or it can even be stacked to create a modular shelving unit. Made from natural walnut, the item comes in two colors, which can be alternated for a visual impact. Tokotoko is made in Japan and can be purchased here.
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 bookcase is a proof that product designers are geeking out too. A human height book robot, called Robox, was created by Fabio Novembre for Casamania. The piece is made of metal, and thanks to its unexpected shape can house books of many different sizes. The red heart feature is especially touching. I could think of a few tomes to put in there…
When it comes to bathroom storage we, small space inhabitants, are not spoiled with the abundance of choice. Which is why this collection from Royo Group is so exciting. The Keops Evolution series feature functional drawers and shelves around the bathtub itself. This elegant solution allows for much needed product/towel storage while taking virtually no extra space. It also provides for easy access to your beauty spoils. Thoughtful… The bathtub finishes are available in white acrylic and walnut and the furniture part can be chosen to be white or black.
This whimsical shelf by Dripta Design Studio made me smile. Designed to resemble a thought bubble, it could be a fun addition to a living and a kids room alike. It may not be able to hold many items, for it is more of a conversational piece than a heavy-duty storage unit; but with this shelf on a wall you will never be accused of living in a dull home. Still in the concept stage, the Dream shelf can be made from fiberglass or wood.
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.
Brazilian artist Marcela Casarotto created these cool colorful accent tables that can bring character to the room while serving as a book storage. The inspiration for the collection came from the colorful esthetic of the La Boca district (Argentina). Here is what the author says about the pieces: ‘The project proposed the creation of a set of residential auxiliary tables using the colorful district of La Boca (Argentina) as semantic reference, searching for meanings attributed to it and reflecting them on the product through its esthetic and symbolic functions… The product allows the consumer to assemble it at home and select the colors for the finishing, making it part of the environment it’s inserted in a pleasant and humorous way.’ The materials used to make the prototype are MDF, hardwood and PET finishing.
