I’m a sucker for things that have dual purposes or multiple functions, probably because I don’t have much space for stuff but at the same time, I’m a certified hoarder. It’s also fascinating to have things around that look like one thing but can also be another thing. Browsing through various online shopping apps and you’ll come across things like these but not always of the best quality. Still, the creativity that comes into creating products that can serve several purposes at the same time is always something to be admired.
Designer: Dami Seo
Soom is a concept for a series of products that are hiding in plain sight. The designer’s tagline is “take it out and hide it”, referring to the fact that these items can be part of your space’s interior decoration while also hiding things that you want to not be so visible. The products in the concept include a lamp that’s also a hidey hole for small things, a clock that can also keep your remote controls, and a hanger that can also turn into cleaning materials. The basic idea is to be able to maximize the value of your space and your interiors through “hiding”.
The Soom Lamp not only provides you with illumination but can also keep the things that you want to hide in the dark. This bright orange sculpture-like lamp structure has space underneath it to keep small items like keys, glasses, earphones, etc. Just place it in the space around the bulb and it will be “sucked in” and hidden from plain sight. Meanwhile, the Soom Clock is actually a container for your remote controls (and you probably own more than one) but they’re placed at the back of the watch face. The yellow device tells you the time and also hides your RCs so you won’t panic when you can’t find it on your couch. Lastly, the Soom Hanger lets you, well, hang clothes, hats, or bags on it. But when you need some cleaning, just separate the rod and you get yourself a mop.
Ultimately, Dami Seo’s Soom concept highlights a crucial aspect of modern living: the need for adaptable and efficient design. In a world where space is often a premium, and the desire for both functionality and aesthetic appeal is paramount, Soom offers a clever solution. It’s more than just a collection of multi-purpose objects; it’s a philosophy that encourages us to rethink how we interact with our belongings and our spaces. By seamlessly blending utility and disguise, Soom transforms everyday items into subtle, yet indispensable, components of our homes. It reminds us that even the most mundane objects can be imbued with ingenuity, turning the act of organizing and decluttering into a delightful discovery. Soom isn’t just about hiding things; it’s about revealing the hidden potential within the objects that surround us, proving that true design brilliance lies in the ability to maximize both form and function.
