Sharing: A Multifunctional Side Table for Small Apartments

Creating Social Spaces in Limited Living Areas

Living in small apartments has become a common choice for many young people due to rising rent prices and limited living areas. However, this often leads to a lack of socializing opportunities within the confines of these small spaces. Recognizing this issue, Xingjian Rong and Ziyue Zhuang set out to design a solution that would enable small apartment dwellers to socialize without compromising on space.

Sharing is a versatile piece of furniture that combines the functionality of a coffee table and a stool. Its compact design and easy storage make it ideal for small spaces. The main part of the table is made of pine plywood using CNC cutting, while the cushion is made of cotton and stitched for comfort.

What sets Sharing apart is its ability to adapt to different usage scenarios. By simply removing the mat and the tray on top, the coffee table can transform into a stool, providing additional seating when needed. This flexibility allows users to create social spaces within their small apartments, whether it's for hosting friends or enjoying a cup of coffee with a neighbor.

The design process for Sharing involved extensive research into the challenges faced by individuals living in small spaces. Xingjian Rong and Ziyue Zhuang aimed to address the isolation that often comes with limited living areas and provide opportunities for social interaction. The project started in August 2019 in Tianjin and was completed in December 2020 in London.

One of the main challenges in designing Sharing was finding the balance between the individual parts and the overall aesthetic. Through numerous tests and iterations, the designers were able to find the optimal solution that seamlessly integrates the different components while maintaining the functionality and visual appeal of the piece.

With its innovative design and focus on social interaction, Sharing has received recognition in the design community. The project was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2021. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate excellence in both practicality and innovation, meeting the highest professional and industrial standards.

Sharing is not just a piece of furniture; it is a solution that addresses the social needs of individuals living in small apartments. By providing a multifunctional and adaptable space, Xingjian Rong and Ziyue Zhuang have created a design that enhances the lifestyle of those who choose to live in limited living areas.