Children’s Furniture by Rafaschieri Design Studio

Phew! I just got through reading the rather long and involved concept statement behind Rafaschieri Design Studio's new kid’s furniture line - and here I just thought it was good looking. Having reread it a couple times, I'm pretty sure that this is the skinny: children of all ages will squirm and worm around in their environment - it is in fact crucial to their development. So why do we: 1) put them at greater risk of suffering injurious falls by bringing them up to our adult level via high changing tables and high chairs? And 2), why do we buy kid's furniture that doesn't safely grow with them? In answer to these questions, Frank & Stanimira Rafaschieri have devised a rather ingenious furniture line, which at this point consists of a chair and table combo as well as a changing table.

What you'll immediately notice (well if you're me, you'll say, “Whoa! Great form, cool orange/red colors!" But after that you'll see...) that each piece adapts to at least two different functions. Indeed, the chair/table set has 8 distinct configurations - allowing you to utilize the system from age 6 months to 6 years! You'll also notice that the center of gravity is very low, to reduce the risk of injurious falls. With the changing table, parent sit to change babe, who rests at a more secure height off the ground. As a hugely pregnant woman who struggles to heft the toddler onto the table, I can fully appreciate the genius of this design. Of course there's no place for supplies, but I guess you could rig something nearby. And then when babe's all grown, turn the cushion over, and voila, nifty bench. I can't wait to see these designs in person, and when the sales person comes over to give me the pitch, I'll just wave her off and say, "No need, I'm quite familiar with the concept!"

Via Moco Loco.