Inside Out: Playful Furniture Blurring Age Boundaries

Nao Fujimura’s toy-inspired design sparks creativity for all ages

Inside Out, a unique creation by designer Nao Fujimura, challenges traditional boundaries between toys and furniture. Drawing inspiration from the whimsical shapes of children’s playthings, this piece invites users of all ages to engage with its form and function. The design’s playful ambiguity—whether it is a child’s furniture set or a large toy for adults—encourages shared experiences and sparks curiosity, making it a standout in contemporary lifestyle design.

Functionality and flexibility define Inside Out. The set comprises a light green, three-legged stool and a white ash wood box, both designed to be used in multiple ways. Children can enjoy the set as a stool and mini table, while parents and children can use the stools together, fostering moments of connection. The stool’s ability to be inserted from any side of the box, much like a puzzle, allows users to experiment and discover new configurations, promoting imaginative play and intuitive interaction.

Material choice and craftsmanship play a crucial role in the product’s appeal. White ash wood, finished with vibrant car paint, creates a smooth, toy-like texture that is both visually striking and safe for young hands. Rounded corners and a polished surface eliminate sharp edges and wood grain, ensuring comfort and safety. The color scheme—simple white on the outside, bright green within—invites curiosity and encourages users to explore the piece further.

Inside Out’s design process emphasized inclusivity and open-ended engagement. Research focused on creating a product that transcends age and gender, offering a mysterious shape that does not immediately reveal its purpose. By deliberately avoiding a single prescribed use, the design encourages users to invent their own ways of interacting with the piece, echoing the open-ended nature of play. Ergonomic considerations ensured that the dimensions would suit both children and adults, without sacrificing the object’s charming, toy-like appearance.

The project, developed between June and September 2024, overcame significant challenges in balancing versatility, safety, and aesthetic appeal. The result is a product that not only serves practical needs but also stimulates imagination and delight. Recognized with a Bronze A' Design Award in 2025, Inside Out exemplifies how thoughtful design can enrich daily life and foster creativity across generations.

Inside Out stands as a testament to the power of design to unite functionality with playful wonder, inviting everyone to rediscover the joy of imagination in everyday objects.