Wall Mirror Set

As with the other Josh Owen products for Kontextur, one of the strategies in the design of the hanging mirrors was insuring the long life of the products. By conceiving the ‘holding’ component of both mirrors as a glove which stretches over the glass, the mirror element is both contained and protected. Because the molded silicone is incredibly strong and tear resistant, if the mirror portion is ever damaged or broken, it could be replaced by the consumer and re-fit into the proprietary design element. The wall mounting system allows for precise placement without the extra step of measuring and marking the wall in advance of hanging. Holding the mirror in place shows exactly where it will hang when the screw is inserted. Like all the other items in the Josh Owen line for Kontextur (with the exception of the hook) there are no extra parts trapped in the silicone making recycling very easy, should that ever happen. The Wall Mirror Set is included in the permanent collection of the Design Museum Brussels. Photos by Michael Wilson.

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WC Line

The WC Line for Kontextur consists of a plunger with a storage dish, a toilet brush with a storage vessel and a waste bin. The design for the WC Line uses functionality and performance as the primary measures which define beauty; inspired by universal languages which have stood the test of time. These products exude clarity by blending utility, usability, materiality and engineering with careful attention to the concerns of space limitations often accompanying their context in the bath. Based on circular footprints, these items relate to one another naturally in many configurations, never looking out of alignment in their setting. The wooden handles are sourced locally to their production location and the full silicone rubber construction and reduced parts avoids the damage which limits the life of similar products made from other materials. All items in the line are washable and made to last. Winner, 2012 Chicago Good Design Award. Included in the permanent collection of the Design Museum Brussels. Photos by Michael Wilson.

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Knockoff Lamp

The success of this project depends upon the associations we bring to object form-languages. In its standing state a bowling pin is waiting to be knocked over. When it is knocked over, it waits to be stood back up. Taking its cue from this iconic shape, when the Knock Off lamp is on its side, the light is off. When the pin stands tall, it glows. This action becomes the switch. Designed for Bozart, then Kikkerland, Inc. Photos by Clint Blowers.

XOX Coffee Table

This project is designed around efficiencies. The XOX Coffee table was intended to be both a classic and affordable piece of furniture. Relying on a simple manufacturing strategy, the coffee table is constructed from 3 pieces of cut and lacquered sheet fiberboard. There is little tooling or assembly involved. It packs flat, making its journey from the factory to the end-user a cost-effective one. Because it comes to the consumer ready to assemble, it can be installed in seconds and is portable, if necessary, making it a desirable item for a demographic with the potential to relocate. Designed for Horm/Casamania.