These transforming boxes disguised as industrial crates unfold to reveal brilliantly crafted pieces of furniture. From dressers and beds to foosball tables and cabinets, Naihan Li's designs are simultaneously fun, industrial, and mobile, while also epitomizing minimalist living. In addition to unfurling to reveal unexpected contents, the 'crates' pack up as containers, neatly tucking everything away to maintain a sense of order amidst urban chaos.
Inspired while unpacking artwork from shipping crates in Milan, the Beijing-based artist began designing her furniture range to embody unusual forms, yet remain adaptable.
A graduate from London’s Bartlett School of Architecture, Li now lives on the outskirts of Beijing in an industrial studio space. In her press information she notes that she is highly influenced by the “state of urban development and simultaneous decay” of the city that surrounds her.
Images courtesy of Naihan Li