This beautiful modular line is the creation of Netherlands based studio Pastoe. Simply called Boxes, the collection is comprised of individual open elements that vary in size and color. Fully combinable, these units can form multiple configurations depending on your space preferences and nature of the items you are trying to store. The openness and subtle hue combinations make this storage look almost ethereal. However, closed elements are also available, if you so choose. The separators and rear panels can be selected in a different color. Because there is not a single reason in the world for having boring storage…
Boxinbox is a storage cabinet by Keiji Ashizawa. The beauty of this design is in the shape of the boxes that fit into each other (hence the name). The metal frame is also easy to disassemble for compact storage. The whole construction, even though it looks rather etherial and fragile, is actually sturdy enough for the boxes to slide, letting you a fast glance over the contents. And when you are done storing stuff (if only!), you can store the piece itself after turning it flat. Thus, Boxinbox creates extra space while taking almost none for itself. I really like that!
Vista by Albed is a clever wall system allowing you to build partitions of various size, transparency and configuration. This unusual arrangement is based on floor and ceiling railing structures, that hold mobile dividing components in place. And as far as these dividers are concerned – you have a vast variety to choose from. Glass partitions, shelves, mirrors, closet units, media cabinets, kitchen appliances holders, – the list is endless… My favorite part is the ability to build completely autonomous spaces within a room that are already enhanced with customizable storage. Smart stuff!
My Writing Desk is a project by Vilnius based design studio etc.etc. The concept of this piece is quite simple – to push all storage away from the tabletop and free the surface for work. For this purpose the wings were added to three sides of the desk, providing easy and visible storage for papers, devices, books, and other work-related items. This way the desktop can be used right up to the edges without worrying that things might fall down, and any unnecessary objects can simply be pushed to the storage sides. The wings are divided for simple construction leaving a path for the wires. There are also two traditional drawers big enough for a laptop. Simple, elegant design of the item allows it to float in the room.
How delightful is this? Swedish company Matroshka Furniture AB managed to squeeze living room, dining room, bedroom and study in just 15m2 (about 160 square feet). This was achieved by inventing a piece of furniture that is able to transform into all of the above spaces. Matroshka system was inspired by Russian nesting dolls. Here too pieces fit into each other and save space.
Designers elaborate:
‘When the basic idea was being conceived, the focus was on seeing the room as a volume instead of an area, and on creating plenty of storage while also keeping the furniture comfortable and appealing. The L-shaped desk is fantastically spacious, with a standard height and depth. You may be living in a small space, but that’s no reason to use small furniture. A common problem in small residences is having guests round and finding somewhere for them to sit. With Matroshka, the solution is easy as the living room set-up has space for up to 12 people around the table.’
The entertainment area is built around a clever dining/coffee table hybrid, that can be moved up and down hydraulically. And when the party pieces are tucked in, they serve as a base for a double bed. Thus, all living systems are represented in one all-including piece of Matreshka furniture. It is pleasing that our humble Russian trinket propelled such an inspiring work.
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.
Here is another cool idea for bike storage – Pedal Pod by Tamasine Osher. The piece is a perfect urban combo – a bookshelf and a bike rack in one. Made from walnut, this clever little unit can accomodate a few books and small items while proudly displaying your two-wheeled transport. It also allows storing the bike vertically, freeing precious square footage. Great piece for a small city apartment.
Some of you might remember the Bedpack by Eveline Borgermans I featured a few months back. Well, the similar product is now available in a store near you. The ubiquitous nature of IKEA strikes again. The bedside sleeve, called FLÖRT, allows storing books, iPads, remotes, glasses and all other nightstand paraphernalia. The item is made from durable polyester.
(via Lifehacker)
This clever modular coat hanger by Veronika Wildgruber (in collaboration with Susanne Stofer) is made of series of Y-shaped hooks, mounted on polyamide rope that is typically used for mountain climbing. Called Wardrope (witty!), the piece is suspended from the ceiling via included ceiling hook. It holds up to 30 pounds of coats, bags, or whatever it is you wish to hang. You can adjust the hooks to the hight you need by simply sliding them along the rope. There is a weight at the end of the rope, which keeps it under tension. Sold here.
The Insekt kids desk by the Dutch designer label Buisjes En Beugels +++ is a smaller version of the grownup item by the same name. Both pieces are made from MPLX birch, contain lots of storage space, and come in a variety of tender age appropriate colors. And, as the era of technology dictates, Insekt is equipped with cable storage as well (which nowadays is relevant for all users, even the little ones). The desk is flat packed and can be easily assembled at home.
