2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture

Wenhan Zhang

Interview about 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture, winner of the A' Furniture Design Award 2019

About the Project

The 2 in 1 chair features ergonomic details, whether a person needs to sit for a few minutes or a few hours, the design considerations make sitting a joy. Storage and power options are close at hand and the surface provides flexibility for the task at hand. When privacy or focus becomes a priority the 2 in 1 accommodates. The chair’s high wood arms form a visual boundary that helps eliminate distractions and prying eyes.

Design Details
  • Designer:
    Wenhan Zhang
  • Design Name:
    2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture
  • Designed For:
    Jiangxi Sanyou Furniture Co.,LTD
  • Award Category:
    A' Furniture Design Award
  • Award Year:
    2019
  • Last Updated:
    November 22, 2024
Learn More About This Design

View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.

View Design Details
Your Silver A' Design Award-winning 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture beautifully merges storage and seating - could you walk us through the journey of how this innovative concept evolved from initial inspiration to final realization?

I noticed that many urban spaces are limited in size, making it challenging to meet people’s diverse needs. This inspired me to create a piece of furniture that could deliver multiple functions within a compact area, catering to the lifestyle of modern urban dwellers. In the early deign phase, I focused on integrating “hidden storage” and “seating.” These two functions not only save space but also provide practical convenience for users in their daily lives. Later, in order to make it more connivence, I inserted plug, it make the furniture still like one piece.

The high wooden arms of the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture create an intriguing visual boundary for privacy - what inspired this distinctive architectural element, and how does it enhance the user experience beyond its aesthetic appeal?

When I designed this piece, I considered what type of space would suit it best. My intent was to create it for hospitality and workplace settings, which is why I incorporated boundaries for privacy.

How did your background in fine arts and interior architecture influence the ergonomic considerations and material choices in the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture, particularly regarding the integration of solid oak and recycled materials?

When designing the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture, I aimed to create a piece that not only has a warm, natural aesthetic but also provides comfort and ergonomics in use. I chose solid oak for its durability, tactile quality, and natural grain, while incorporating recycled materials to reinforce the sustainability aspect of the design. This material combination balances both beauty and eco-friendliness, aligning with my overall vision for the space and furniture, allowing users to feel comfortable and at ease.

The 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture features thoughtful power integration with USB ports - what research insights led you to incorporate this technological element, and how does it reflect changing workplace behaviors?

Some design firms have integrated free-addressing seating methods in their offices, providing a variety of seating options. The reason I incorporated power integration is that I considered how people often need to take breaks from work, and this lounge-like seating allows for that flexibility and convenience.

Could you elaborate on the specific challenges you encountered while ensuring the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture would accommodate people of various sizes and uses, while maintaining its sophisticated aesthetic?

One key issue was balancing ergonomics with design. I had to ensure that the piece provided comfort for people of different body types, which involved careful consideration of seating depth, height, and back support. At the same time, I didn't want to compromise the sleek, minimalist design. I solved this by integrating adjustable elements and thoughtful proportions, allowing the piece to adapt to different users without losing its visual elegance.

The sustainable aspects of the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture, including FSC Certified wood and recycled materials, are impressive - how did these environmental considerations shape your design decisions throughout the development process?

When designing the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture, environmental considerations were central to my decision-making. Choosing FSC-certified wood and recycled materials was not only about enhancing sustainability but also about aligning with my vision for material quality and natural aesthetics.

What unexpected discoveries or insights emerged during the development of the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture that have influenced your approach to subsequent design projects?

Multifunctionality is the key element that influenced my design approach. Furniture should not only serve basic functions but also resonate emotionally with users. This perspective has led me to prioritize user experience in subsequent projects, with the goal of creating designs that offer people a greater sense of comfort and satisfaction in their spaces.

How does the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture reflect your understanding of the cultural and emotional connections people form with furniture in their daily lives?

The multifunctional nature of the piece allows it to adapt to various situations, whether it's used for work, relaxation, or as a social spot, aligning with the flexibility modern lifestyles require. By creating a piece that users can integrate into different moments of their daily routines, I aim to foster a lasting emotional connection.

Looking at the market response since winning the Silver A' Design Award, how has the recognition influenced the evolution and future development plans for the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture?

Winning the Silver A' Design Award has significantly influenced both the market response and the future development of the 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture. The recognition has increased visibility and credibility, allowing the design to reach a broader audience and attract interest from both consumers and industry professionals.

The 2 in 1 Multifunctional Furniture seems to anticipate future workplace needs - what emerging trends in furniture design do you see shaping the next generation of multifunctional pieces?

First, flexibility and adaptability will be increasingly important, especially in multifunctional furniture. As work environments continue to evolve with the rise of hybrid and remote work models, furniture designs will need to offer greater adjustability to meet a variety of needs.Second, integration of technology will have a profound impact on future furniture design. As smart devices become more integrated into daily life, furniture will evolve from static objects to smart platforms that connect with the user’s digital world. Circular design will focus on material sustainability and reuse. With growing environmental awareness, consumers are increasingly opting for products made from recyclable or renewable materials.

Explore Our Special Features

Dive into a world of design excellence with our curated highlights. Each feature showcases outstanding creativity, innovation, and impact from the design world. Discover inspiration and learn more about these incredible achievements.