Multifunctionality is more than the ability of a vessel to contain different things, such as pencils or flowers.

There are simple objects that amaze us because of their ability to perform different and unrelated tasks. Their intriguing forms invite exploration, suggest possibilities, demand interpretation. Their function has not been clearly defined, or better yet, it has not been clearly restricted.

The Mano container, designed by Roberto Zanon, not only can hold pencils or flowers, but because of its weight it can simultaneously work as a bookend.



As if that were not enough, we can also turn the object upside down to organize computer disks, notepads or envelopes. Roberto's obsession with multifunctionality even goes as far as carving a small niche in the pinky finger, so, in yet another position, it can at least hold paperclips.



The Urchin container, designed by Roberto Zanon and Satomi Yoshida-Katz, is much more than just personable. As we open the lid and rest it on it's legs, we only begin discovering what this object can do. Each of the two parts can in fact be used either as a pronged holder or as a dish. This gives the Urchin a total of six possible functional arrangements, including ones in which the two parts are combined on top of each other.



Reinterpreting the object in different environments, we can use the Urchin container as jewelry box/ring stand, sponge holder/soap dish, paper clip dish/envelope holder ... but why should we limit you with these ideas!

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