Guwahati: A research team of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has designed unique and innovative space-saving furniture to cater to the increasing demand for adaptable furniture in small living spaces.
Prof Supradip Das from the Department of Design, along with his former student Rijas MP, used a ‘Prototype-Driven Innovation approach to create a versatile piece of furniture that can be transformed into eight different configurations.
The design consists of two side panels, cylindrical bars, and round-headed bolts, allowing users to easily adjust its shape and purpose such as chair, table or storage unit.
Prof Das said, “Our primary objective was to design furniture that optimises the use of limited space by providing users with the flexibility to adjust it based on their specific requirements at any given time,”
This innovative design is perfect for compact living spaces, such as small houses. The shortage of space in urban dwellings has fuelled a surge in demand for multifunctional furniture that can adapt to various needs.
A National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) study revealed that 32% of urban homes are 258 sq. ft. or smaller, while 39% of rural homes measure 312 sq. ft. or less.
The IIT Guwahati’s new design offers a solution tailored to small living spaces.
“With homes and apartments becoming smaller, people increasingly need furniture that can serve multiple functions without taking up too much room,” he said.
To arrive at the final design, the team built and tested several prototypes before selecting the final design based on space-saving efficiency, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness.
The furniture has been designed with a variety of materials to make it affordable to cater to different income levels. The furniture is flat-packed and can be assembled by the users. A smaller version is also available for children, making it a versatile option for any household.
While the lab-scale prototype costs approximately Rs 35,000, mass production is expected to significantly reduce costs. The design accommodates various materials, from affordable particle boards to premium options like acrylic and toughened glass, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
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The team has secured a patent for their invention, which promises to be a game-changer for those living in compact spaces.
