Foster Shelving Unit

The Foster Shelving Unit is a modular storage system designed for 57st. design’s circular furniture service, Design Circulation. Each component of the Foster offers unique functionality (e.g., open shelving, file storage, general drawer storage) and each can be purchased piecemeal, allowing the user to mix-and-match to fit her needs. As part of Design Circulation, individual Foster components can be returned to 57st. design in exchange for store credit. These components are then restored to original condition and sold / circulated to another user. The design relies on traditional methods of craftsmanship as much as it does contemporary modes of commerce. Each component is constructed from solid hardwood and hand-finished, which allows it to be easily restored to original condition. Aided by the weight of the solid wood, components are locked in place with pegs and mortises rather than hardware. Dozens of configurations are available depending on desired utility, and components can be arranged in any order. Each component can be purchased individually, allowing users to add or subtract components as their needs change. Currently, the Foster can be purchased in any one of five unique components. Each component offers a different functionality– one is a large storage drawer, one is a pencil drawer, one can be used for media storage, one is a filing cabinet, and one is completely open. As such, the Foster is just as appropriate as a dresser as it is an office credenza, media center, or bookcase. And, when changing circumstance obviates the need for a particular component, that component can be given back to 57st. design in exchange for store credit, allowing the consumer to recapture some of the value that went into the original purchase, while simultaneously promoting a truly sustainable means of consumption through restoration and reuse. Credits: – 57st. design – COO – Pia Narula