Shelfium: The Art of Multifunctional Furniture Design

Stanislav Melis and Jozef Michalko's Ingenious Creation

Shelfium emerges from the necessity to craft storage solutions using readily available materials, unified by a singular element that breathes life into diverse furniture forms. This design marvel is not just for shelves or libraries; it morphs into coat racks, room dividers, and more, showcasing the power of imagination in functional design.

What sets Shelfium apart is its versatility. It's a canvas for the user's creativity, allowing for the integration of various materials, including recycled elements, to reflect personal style and environmental consciousness. The design's strength lies in its adaptability, enabling the creation of both upcycled and luxurious furniture pieces.

Shelfium's production relies on CNC milling of solid oak, finished with hard wax oil, and stainless steel bars that can be customized in length. The design's modularity extends to its components, including toughened glass and solid wood, offering a spectrum of possibilities for personalization.

Shelfium's interaction is user-centric, offering kits made from recyclable materials with the option for individual part replacement. Alternatively, users can source parts locally or through upcycling, aligning with the design's sustainable ethos. The choice of environmental and social impact rests in the hands of the user.

The journey of Shelfium began in 2018, with its development unfolding over three years in Bratislava, in collaboration with local artisans. The design process was a quest for a timelessly modular tool that could evolve without losing its core identity, emphasizing material efficiency and system openness.

Overcoming the challenge of simplifying the form while ensuring structural integrity was a testament to the designers' commitment to minimal material use and innovative joint combinations. Shelfium stands as a testament to the designers' ingenuity, offering a sustainable, customizable solution to modern furniture needs.

Shelfium's recognition as a Bronze winner in the A' Furniture Design Award 2024 underscores its excellence in design, functionality, and contribution to enhancing quality of life. This accolade celebrates Shelfium's role in pushing the boundaries of furniture design, merging art, technology, and sustainability.