Paddo: A Fairytale-Inspired Parasol

Designers Lieven Musschoot and Mathias Hennebel Bring Childhood Fantasies to Life

With its unique design properties, the Paddo parasol stands out in the world of outdoor furniture. Its creators sought to bring the magic and wonder of childhood into the realm of adults, resulting in a design that blurs the line between reality and fantasy. The Paddo's mirrored surface reflects the world around it, while its underbelly, adorned with mysterious tracks, dances in the breeze, adding to its enchanting appeal.

The Paddo parasol is crafted from 100% acrylic, with a pole made of stainless steel and ribs of powder-coated steel. Its technical specifications include three different diameters, catering to various outdoor spaces. The design is both playful and practical, offering shade and a touch of whimsy.

The Paddo parasol is operated manually, opening almost automatically with a gentle push. Its interaction with the user is part of its charm, with the closing and reopening process creating beautiful wrinkles in the fabric that mimic the natural world.

The design process for the Paddo parasol began in January 2010 in Bruges and concluded in August of the same year. It was then exhibited at Maison and Object in Paris in September 2010. The designers faced the challenge of joining two different types of fabric without creating wrinkles on the outside, a feat they successfully achieved.

The Paddo parasol is a testament to the power of imagination and the beauty of design. It was awarded the Golden A' Street and City Furniture Design Award in 2017, a prestigious accolade that recognizes outstanding and trendsetting creations. The Paddo parasol is not just a functional piece of furniture; it's a piece of art that brings a touch of magic to any outdoor space.