Limitations give rise to pain points within the production process but ultimately breed bigger and better outcomes, even improving operations in a more comprehensive way had the challenges never come to pass. The critically acclaimed Boxed Collection by SCP is a powerful example of this premise and its effect on contemporary design. The original 2009 launch was born from a proposed solution that has come to save countless packing materials from landfills: compel designers to create smaller-scale furnishings to fit within DHL’s standard international shipping box, which measures 19 x 16 x 15 inches, rather than impose other creative restrictions.
A seemingly simple shift in strategy, coupled with simplified transit, meant brands could offer customers more thoughtful design objects that could be easily carried out of the store or shipped via e-commerce. In essence, this has also launched current conversations around shipping methods as the brand revisits their timeless concept today.
Norton Side Table by Elliot Payne
For 2025, SCP invited a mix of established and emerging voices in design to participate once again in tackling this challenge. The brief driving today’s showcase contains a mix of material freedom and shipping size restriction – arguably the intersection where good design resides.
The 12 makers, which include Elliot Payne, Andu Masebo, Matthew Hilton, Oscar Coakley, Nathalie Du Pasquier, Jasper Morrison, Barber Osgerby, Ted Synnott, Michael Marriott, Jonah Takagi, George Sowden, and Donna Wilson, illustrate the many ways in which Boxed Collection was ahead of it’s time. And it proves that we can truly create magic out of limitation in a natural and uniquely humane pursuit of good design.
Norton Side Table by Elliot Payne
The Norton Side Table by Elliot Payne blends traditional woodwork with modern form in its gently extruded, three-legged design. Each protrude from a base of the similar width, like roots of a tree, tendrils abruptly set yet firmly planted. Sitting ever so lightly, the legs remain expressive and playful.
Work Trestles by Matthew Hilton
Work trestles are an ancient invention, one we would do well to have more of in modern times. Strong, simple, and impeccably made, Work Trestles by Matthew Hilton are built from thick pieces of wood, chamfered on both edges and equal on both sides. A bisecting bar in the middle holds the three legs upright resulting in a stunning moment of visual tension. Seemingly too tall to be balanced, trestles are actually extremely secure, ready to create a desk or table, or to hold backpacks, jackets, or even laundry bags in a pinch.
No.5 Series Tables by Jasper Morrison
The No.5 Series Tables by Jasper Morrison utilize expert joinery methods, evoking a simplicity that is hard to define. Regularized slats meet in a high table, low table, and long table, celebrating a humble materiality and form.
Henk Side Table by Michael Marriott
Similarly inspired by the beauty and strength of trestles, the Henk Side Table by Michael Marriott pulls on these quite ancient forms elegantly. A rectangular top descends into four splayed legs, offering superior resistance to an errant shoe scuff or pet tail.
Cove Side Table by Jonah Takagi
The Cove Side Table by Jonah Takagi delineates it’s final shape with ease – three circles are held aloft by two vertical boards. The devil is in the details, the curves of the solid wood uprights bending gracefully to accommodate the veneer circles.
Resort Side Table by Ted Synnott
The Resort Side Table by Ted Synnott offers sleek storage, wrought out of planes of metal to create a sense of solidity. The relatively simple side table has a square top, perfect for keeping drinks dry by the pool, but also offers a smaller platform underneath, keeping your phone out of the sun – saving your phone’s battery and your vacation photos in the process.
Topside Stool by Andu Masebo
Almost toy-like, the Topside Stool by Andu Masebo sits firmly in its identity, thick planks of rounded wood sitting atop another, supporting a common goal that blends utility with fun. In exploring what can exist from using one section of timber, this stool balances weight, proportion, and softness in service of its user.
Troy Side Table by Oscar Coakley
The Troy Side Table by Oscar Coakley started off heavy, a nod to the precious-metal measurement system of the same name, popular in the Middle Ages. Yet the brief requires lightness, so this little side table does both – offer a solid, secure foundation, with a portability and size that surprises in contrast.
Pluto Coat Hooks by Barber Osgerby
These Pluto Coat Hooks by Barber Osgerby offer a much-needed rest for the items you take with you every day, like a tote, hat, or jacket, elegant and organic in form. Use one side for one item, one for the other, or create a gentle place to rest a sweater – no more stretched out necklines.
Ernest Pouffe in Bundle by Donna Wilson
The Ernest Pouffe by Donna Wilson, shown here in colorway Bundle, fuses machine knitting and abstract art to offer a flourish of color for the home. Available in a multitude of different styles, it is crafted out of 100% Scottish highland wool which can be dyed brilliant hues, creating a fantastic depth of color.
To learn more about the Boxed Collection for SCP, visit scp.co.uk.
Photography courtesy of SCP.
