Köllen Bookshelf: A Nordic-Inspired, Adaptable Design

Adrian Soldado Cid and Paula Terra Bosch's Award-Winning Multifunctional Shelf

The Köllen Bookshelf, designed by Adrian Soldado Cid and Paula Terra Bosch, is a testament to the power of thoughtful design. The shelf's unique properties lie in its adaptability. Each piece can be adjusted to accommodate the size and shape of the objects placed on it, allowing the user to create a variety of compositions with ease. This innovative approach introduces the concepts of dynamism and adaptability to furniture design, fostering a unique interaction between the product and its user.

The design team drew inspiration from the Nordic style, both in terms of the shelf's name, Köllen, which is Swedish for Alps, and the materials and shapes used. The light tones and natural materials, primarily Finn birch plywood, reflect the Nordic aesthetic, while the shapes mimic the mountains, paying homage to the region from which the design draws its inspiration.

The Köllen Bookshelf was realized using CNC cutting technology. The product measures 1000 x 350 x 150 mm, and can support a maximum load of 30 kg. The design team, which also includes Oriol Campillo Mestres and Nuria Jane Ballarin, faced the challenge of creating an interactive system for a furniture piece made of a rigid material, wood. Through extensive prototyping and testing, they were able to design a shelf with a dynamic structure that can be easily adjusted without the need for any tools.

The shelf's design process was rooted in research and observation. The team identified a need for new solutions in furniture design that could meet contemporary needs. They studied the evolving habits of society and the relationships between people and objects, leading to the creation of a design that is both functional and interactive. The shelf can be used as a storage space or a hanger, and its modular design allows for active home decoration.

The Köllen Bookshelf has been recognized for its innovative design, winning the Silver A' Furniture Design Award in 2018. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, and that inspire positive feelings, amazement, and wonder. The Köllen Bookshelf certainly fits this description, with its unique, adaptable design that brings a touch of the Nordic style to any space.