Prism Sideboard: Where Functional Art Meets Modern Elegance

Vintage inspiration and gem-like brilliance define Maan Sydney’s award-winning design.

The Prism sideboard stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of functional art. Drawing inspiration from vintage cabinets across multiple eras, Maan Sydney Design Studio sought to create a piece that honors the elaborate craftsmanship of the past while introducing a distinctly modern edge. The result is a sideboard that captures the eye much like a finely cut gem, reflecting both light and its surroundings with a striking metallic top.

Central to Prism’s uniqueness is its duality: romantic yet sharp, timeless yet innovative. The sideboard’s mirroring metallic surface is designed not only for aesthetic appeal but also to serve as a creative canvas. This reflective top can mirror the beauty of a ceiling, the greenery outside a window, or even a cherished object placed atop it, inviting users to interact with their environment in new ways. Maan Sydney Design Studio describes this approach as ‘functional art,’ aiming to inspire creativity and personal expression in everyday living spaces.

Sustainability is woven into the very fabric of Prism. The cabinet body utilizes offcuts from other projects, minimizing waste and maximizing resourcefulness. The dark wood version features PEFC-certified Tasmanian oak and a Rimex stainless steel mirror crafted from at least 50% recycled steel, while the light wood variant uses Scandinavian birch plywood with a gold-toned steel mirror. Both versions employ eco-friendly, recyclable glass beads for etching, underscoring the studio’s commitment to environmentally conscious design.

Technical precision defines the construction of Prism. Measuring 1080 mm in width, 470 mm in depth, and 830 mm in height, the sideboard features two doors with a central front opening and an internal shelf for versatile storage. The design process, led by Anna Magnusson and Mac Nordman, involved meticulous attention to the angles and proportions of each panel, balancing rounded and sharp elements to achieve visual harmony.

Prism’s innovative approach and craftsmanship have not gone unnoticed. The sideboard was awarded Bronze in the 2025 A' Furniture Design Award, a recognition reserved for designs that excel in creativity, technical skill, and positive impact on quality of life. This accolade highlights Prism’s role in bridging art, science, and technology within the realm of contemporary furniture.

As a piece that reflects both its environment and the evolving values of design, Prism by Maan Sydney Design Studio invites users to experience furniture as both a functional necessity and a source of inspiration. Its blend of artistry, sustainability, and modernity sets a new standard for what a sideboard can be in today’s living spaces.