WS-51: The Stylish and Functional Slipper Stand

A Unique Design Inspired by Waves, Pebbles, and Islands

In many Asian cultures, it is customary to remove shoes when entering interior spaces. However, slippers are often stored in hidden spaces like slipper closets. In response to this, WS-51 was created to shift the focus from "storing slippers invisibly" to "slippers themselves becoming a design."

What sets WS-51 apart is its stylish design, inspired by waves, pebbles, and islands. The long rod, made of maple, adds an elegant touch and allows for easy arrangement of colorful slippers. The base, made of oxidized steel, not only provides a sturdy foundation but also resembles a pebble, adding a unique aesthetic to the design.

Functionally, WS-51 offers the easiest and tidiest way to store slippers. Extensive research was conducted to determine the most efficient method, and hanging slippers on the rods proved to be the fastest and most preferred option. The separable design of WS-51 allows for easy packing and storage, while also giving users the freedom to customize the arrangement of the maple rods and slippers.

With its wave-like design, WS-51 can be extended sideways to accommodate different slipper quantities or room sizes. This flexibility allows users to create their own unique design and adapt it to their specific needs.

The WS-51 slipper stand measures 1100mm in width, 200mm in depth, and 990mm in height. The slim depth ensures minimal disturbance to passers-by, while the streamlined base size of 350mm x 150mm x 90mm keeps it unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing.

WS-51 was created through a meticulous process that involved using maple for the rods due to its elasticity and beige color, which complements the colorful slippers. The anti-rotation design ensures that the slippers always face forward, enhancing the overall visual appeal.

Since its completion in June 2014, WS-51 has garnered recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2015. This prestigious award is a testament to the exceptional creativity, technical expertise, and artistic skill demonstrated by WS-51.

WS-51 is not just a slipper stand; it is a design statement that combines style, functionality, and personalization. By bringing slippers out of hiding and turning them into a design element, In-Hwan Hwang has created a unique and practical solution for storing and displaying slippers in any interior space.