Design for Play

212box, a multi-disciplinary design firm, seamlessly integrates various creative fields including architecture, interiors, product and graphic design. Their approach involves thinking abstractly and holistically, with a distinctive focus on manifesting the power of play in their designs - a philosophy that can be seen in their product collection.

One example is the LightBox, offering a tactile exploration experience composed of detachable magnetic puzzle platelets, serving as a conductor of light and a source of inspiration. By taking apart the layers of platelets, one can reveal different light patterns or shuffle them to experiment with sources of light and darkness. Whether labeled as a puzzle, toy, or brain teaser, the LightBox serves as a means to an end, encouraging users to explore and build their own light to reignite open-ended curiosity. Once its hidden capacities are uncovered, the warm glow becomes a testament to one's creative endeavor. Now, the challenge lies in turning it off—defying darkness and embracing its playful essence.

Continuing the theme of designing for play, another 212box project, the Kumiko chair, involves an intricate technique of assembling wooden pieces without the use of nails to craft a delicate masterpiece. Thinly slit wooden pieces undergo a meticulous process of grooving, punching, mortising, and are then assembled and joined one by one using a variety of tools. Throughout this process, fine adjustments are made to ensure precision and perfection.

The product adheres to the principle of 'form follows function,' as it takes on a unique approach where function is derived from both form and detail simultaneously. The chair's form is intricately linked to the Kumiko pattern, resembling an artistically crafted throne. Each panel follows the rules of equilateral triangles, resulting in a geometrical wonder draped in perfect mathematical formulas that provide both relaxation and coziness. Conceived by Eric Clough, designed by Yoshiaki Ito, and assembled by acclaimed furniture maker Hida Sangyo, the Kumiko chair is delivered as part of the Hearth Home Collection by 212box.

And finally, in 212box’s more recent work, the firm partnered with Maison Jean Rousseau - a renowned French leather house - on a collaborative project involving an array of artisans and artisanal brands within a penthouse residence overlooking the Houston, Texas cityscape. To add a layer of refinement to dinners served in the penthouse apartment, while still maintaining a playful nature, 212box and Maison Jean Rousseau worked together to craft custom placemats for the table.

The bespoke mats have serious manners, as they feature fun contrast stitching outlining exactly where each table item should be placed - from knives, forks and spoons. The project created the perfect blend, from a fun and innovative concept by 212box to the traditional execution by artisan manufacturer with a passion for beautiful materials, Maison Jean Rousseau.

https://212box.com