Flatpak to the future

When we talk about sustainability, we tend to focus on materials. But if an object’s design means enhanced portability, streamlined living, and reduced waste and shipping, doesn’t it score eco-friendly points, too? After looking at the spacesaving, über-modular flatpak phenomenon, we say yes. 

 

If you’ve ever helped a friend move, you know that “stuff” is the enemy. German design team Marcel Krings and Sebastian Mühlhäuser of Casula have devised the ultimate solution: a complete apartment’s worth of furniture—armoire, desk, chair, two stools, bookcase and bed with mattress — in one 31-by-47-inch box. No cardboard or bubble wrap required. Though it’s still in prototype, a clip of the box being unpacked has become a hit on YouTube. mein-casulo.de

 

As thin as an origami bird, yet with a heart of powder-coated steel, Blu Dot’s spindle-legged but sturdy chair with laser-cut “wings” ships completely flat—to be easily unfolded on receipt. It comes in aqua, red, ivory, and black. $129.

 

At first glance, Tiny Living’s double-jointed California birch Case Coffee Table does not reveal its dual identity. But discreet, spring-loaded locking devices allow it to fold up into itself and serve as a carrying case that can handle loads of up to 100 pounds. $179.

 

In the late 1970s, Japanese architects introduced the capsule hotel, with tiny pod-like spaces for businessmen to sleep (or sober up) in. Applying a similar space-saving concept to the work station, the Japanese firm Caina replaces the oft-reviled cubicle with a natty, classic trunk, made of maple with a melamine laminate, that harbors a fold-down desk, shelving units and storage. When your freelance day is done, just fold it up, roll it out of sight and mix up a well-deserved cocktail. About $1,900, caina.jp

 

Stool and Table Is it a seat? A table? A tray? A sculpture? A container for all your cables and power cords? The answer is all of the above. This Yves Béhar multifunctional stool/table, made of wood with a neoprene and metal top, is rumored to be part of a larger system being conceived by West Coast design deity Béhar. $800.

 

Story by Heather Wagner. This article originally appeared in Plenty in October 2008.

 

Copyright Environ Press 2008