Even in this digital age of online social networks and resources, contemporary style conscious individuals today are still purchasing magazines; I know that I do. My favorites are Modernism, Metropolitan Home (will forever be a classic!), ElleDecor, Dwell, Living,etc, I.D., and Home and Architectural TRENDS. What’s more, I very rarely throw them out.
I think design magazines, in particular, are so popular because we always find ourselves in a state of creating; our homes are an eternal “work in progress.” Every new journey through a design magazine reveals new ideas — depending on which room or style is our current project or desire.
My magazine rack, affectionately called Mag-Stacker, was created to provide a stylish and decorative alternative to storing large quantities of magazines. The design aesthetic includes the popular industrial styling to fit right into contemporary and loft-style environments, where honesty of structure and materials is part of the beauty of the design.
The Mag-Stacker design has a whimsical twist and was influenced by the Post-Modern Memphis Design movement; each of the supports is a little different to create visual interest. I designed the rack to allow magazines to be stacked horizontally. I personally hate it when my magazines get all curled up in a vertical holder. The horizontal orientation solves that problem, allows for increased mag storage and allows you to read the spine of the magazine (which actually creates a cool design element with some magazines because some publishers are now adding color blocks to their spines!) The magazines stack very neatly against the vertical wooden surface at left. I have included vertical bars to act as a stop on the back surface and a single vertical bar acts as a containment device as well on the right surface. My favorite element is the adjustable perforated metal arm suspended between the back vertical bars as a decorative containment device.
The Mag-Stacker is still in the development phase. We hold a provisional patent and are currently sourcing manufacturers to license or produce the piece in a variety of finishes. This has been a popular and highly anticipated item, so future developments and availability will be updated right here!
I love the way that you do not sacrifice utility solely for aesthetic. So often we see products being designed that look wonderful, cool and modern…yet the very poduct does little to serve its purpose. In the design of your products you seem to be just as concerned with functionality as you are aesthetic, and you’ve got a WONDERFUL knack for both. I can’t wait to see what other lovely product designs you share with us. You’re doing a great job. Keep it up.