The Boxed Collection by SCP Proves Good Design Needs Limits

"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. For 2025, SCP invited a mix of established and emerging voices in design to participate once again in tackling this challenge."

"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."

"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. 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."

"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. 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"

A seemingly simple shift in strategy and simplified transit enabled brands to offer thoughtfully designed objects that can be carried out of stores or shipped via e-commerce. For 2025, SCP invited established and emerging designers to address a brief combining material freedom with strict shipping-size limits, making limitation a catalyst for good design. Twelve makers including Jasper Morrison, Barber Osgerby, Oscar Coakley, Michael Marriott, and Donna Wilson reinterpreted the Boxed Collection concept. Jasper Morrison's No.5 Series uses expert joinery and regularized slats to celebrate humble materiality. Michael Marriott's Henk Side Table uses trestle-inspired splayed legs for strength. Oscar Coakley's Troy balances historic heft with surprising portability. Barber Osgerby's Pluto Coat Hooks offer elegant, organic utility for everyday items.

Read at Design Milk