I’ve long been a fan of the idea of the so-called Cabinet of Wonder, a magical, other-worldly surprise kept inside an ordinary piece of furniture. Imagine a Joseph Cornell diorama but with a lid on it; Peer inside and who knows what kind of curiosities you’ll find. This Accordion Cabinet, designed by Elisa Strozyk in collaboration with artist Sebastian Neeb, immediately calls to mind that idea – maybe because it opens from the middle like you’re unwrapping a gift.

The accordion part is combination of mixed wood and fabric that peels back like a skin to reveal shelves inside. The only flaw I can find in what I think is a really unique object is the legs. They seem so arbitrary and out of place on this piece, as if the designers thought, well we’re making a cabinet so it has to have legs. I would do away with them entirely and continue the accordion shape to the floor, making a taller cabinet that stands on its own. Then it would really be an object of wonder in itself, no Cornell-esque inspired contents necessary.

designer: elisa strozyk


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