Vitsœ | Case studies of the "606 Universal Shelving System"
Vitsœ
Design Concept: “Timeless”
A Collection of Real-Life Examples of the "606 Universal Shelving System," Loved for Over 50 Years
The "606 Universal Shelving System" from Vitsœ has been used worldwide for over 50 years since its inception, designed as "furniture to be cherished for a lifetime" that exists in harmony with its users, their families, and their spaces. Its modular design, composed of individual parts, allows for a multitude of configurations and additions, enabling users to create ample storage by utilizing an entire wall, divide spaces by incorporating wall irregularities, use cabinets as if they are floating in the air for interior decoration, or coordinate with wall colors. This flexibility is one of its key attractions.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
Dieter Rams' "Ten Principles for Good Design"
Since its founding over 50 years ago in 1959, Vitsœ has continued to produce furniture designed by Dieter Rams, renowned as one of the most influential figures in 20th-century industrial design, guided by the philosophy: "Less, but better." This philosophy emphasizes creating enduring pieces for a better life.
Dieter Rams served as the Chief Design Director for the Braun design team, a leading German electronics manufacturer, for approximately 40 years. In industrial design, he advocated for "functionalism." He introduced over 500 designs to the world, encompassing coffee makers, calculators, radios, audio-visual equipment, consumer electronics, and office equipment.
His "Ten Principles for Good Design" for industrial products are particularly famous and are often referred to as the "Ten Commandments" in the design world, defining good design.
① Good design is innovative
② Good design makes a product useful
③ Good design is aesthetic
④ Good design makes a product understandable
⑤ Good design is unobtrusive
⑥ Good design is honest
⑦ Good design is long-lasting
⑧ Good design is thorough down to the last details
⑨ Good design is environmentally-friendly
⑩ Good design is as little design as possible
Born from this philosophy is the "606 Universal Shelving System," a shelving system designed to be used and cherished for a lifetime.
More Than Furniture: A Tool to Enrich Your Life
The "606 Universal Shelving System" is a modular system designed by Dieter Rams in 1960 with the concept of "timelessness." It was created in alignment with the corporate spirit of Vitsœ Limited, a system furniture manufacturer founded in Germany in 1959 with the philosophy of providing "furniture to be cherished for a lifetime" with responsibility and sincerity, for customers pursuing an intelligent and rational lifestyle.
All components, including structures, shelves, and cabinets, are separate parts, allowing for installation anywhere as long as there is a wall (or ceiling and floor). Naturally, combinations and reconfigurations can be freely adapted to suit various needs.
Although over 50 years have passed since its design, details such as materials and finishes have been continuously improved and evolved. Crucially, the core mechanism and structure remain unchanged, and the system is never discontinued. This means that additions and expansions can always be made to systems purchased years ago, which is a significant advantage.
Vitsœ's products, including the "606 Universal Shelving System," are not only good design but also embody "sustainability." They are truly ideal "tools" that can beautifully organize one's life for a simpler way of living.
"606 Universal Shelving System"
Example Items and Prices (excluding shipping and consumption tax)
E Track | Body Price ¥2,500 - ¥9,600
Metal Shelf | Body Price ¥8,500 - ¥25,000
Wooden Shelf | Body Price ¥21,000 - ¥59,000
Cabinet | Body Price ¥85,000 - ¥125,000
Table | Body Price ¥70,000 - ¥118,000
Inquiries
Vitsœ
https://www.vitsoe.com/jp
tokyo@vitsoe.com
Note: Vitsœ Tokyo closed on December 14, 2014. After December 15, inquiries will be handled by a Japanese planner at the London headquarters.