10 iconic design objects for young and old: where functionality, style, and play come together in one decor
Inspiring creativity in young children through design is a timeless lesson from the great masters. It's never too early to cultivate a passion for beauty. Today, more than ever, brands are offering furniture and accessories specifically designed for children. These aren't mere miniatures, but fully functional objects that blend aesthetics, practicality, and safety — all while fitting seamlessly into every room of the home.
Designed in 1953 by Charles and Ray Eames, the Hang It All coat rack by Vitra is a playful yet practical design icon. Its colorful wooden spheres encourage children to hang up jackets and accessories, while the steel wire frame provides both strength and lightness. Ideal for the kid's room but equally at home in other rooms, this piece adds a lively, cheerful touch to any space.
Uno, La Mela screenprint by Enzo Mari for Danese Milano is a timeless icon of design and graphic art. Its bold colors and minimalist form make it a captivating decorative element for adults and children alike. With its simple yet archetypal shape, the apple becomes a symbol of imagination and reflection, making it a perfect fit for both living rooms and children's bedrooms.
Soft, colorful, and playful, the Tatino pouf by Baleri Italia blends design and comfort. Made from flexible polyurethane with a removable cover, it features an oval shape and vibrant color options. This versatility stimulates children's creativity while adding a playful and original accent to home decor.
The Spun armchair by Magis is an irresistible spinning-top-shaped chair that rotates 360°. Made from durable polyethylene, it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Its whimsical design invites movement and play, turning a simple chair into an interactive experience. Suitable for both children and adults, Spun is perfect for versatile, unconventional spaces.
Brokis' Memory lamps evoke the classic image of inflated balloons. Available in wall or ceiling versions and offered in a range of colors and sizes, these lamps create a dreamy, magical atmosphere. The dangling cord, which doubles as a switch, enhances the playful aesthetic, making it a charming addition to children’s rooms or playful shared spaces.
Achille Castiglioni’s Lampadina by Flos is a masterclass in simplicity and functionality. This compact table lamp, with its anodized aluminum base and a partially sandblasted globolux bulb, emits a soft, diffused glow. Perfect for desks or bedside tables, its timeless design makes it a versatile companion that grows with children and never goes out of style.
Paul Smith’s reinterpretation of Gufram’s famous Cactus turns it into Sunrise Cactus®, symbolizing the dawn of a new day. With a gradient of yellow, orange, and blue hues, it brings a fresh twist to the iconic design. More than a simple coat rack, it’s a playful, artistic sculpture that enlivens any space — even children's bedrooms — with a sense of fun and sophistication.
Brionvega’s legendary Radio.cubo is a design icon that spans generations. Created by Zanuso and Sapper, its compact, colorful form makes it a fascinating object for children accustomed to hyper-technological devices. With its retro charm and updated internal technology, the Radio.cubo 50° combines nostalgia and innovation, bringing timeless design into modern homes.
The Carlton bookcase by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis is a celebration of irreverent design and creative freedom. Its colorful, asymmetrical structure defies conventional notions of furniture design. More than just a bookcase, it can also function as a room divider, infusing any space with vibrant personality. Its playful geometry encourages imagination in both children and adults alike.
The Joe armchair by Poltronova, designed as a tribute to baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, takes the shape of a giant baseball glove. This oversized Pop Art piece is both welcoming and playful, making it a perfect fit for informal spaces and children's rooms. Its whimsical form invites kids and adults to sit back, relax, and feel embraced by its soft, oversized design.
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