Design for Download Droog Salone del Mobile

Droog has done it again – bucking tradition, following a trend, but adding a twist, they are poised to present a collaborative collection of home furnishings (at Salone del Mobile in Milan, 2011) that can be 3D-printed or CNC-cut and assembled by anyone.

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Design for Download Furniture Droog shapes

The selection is set to include everything from tables, desks, shelves, couches and cupboards to electrical outlet covers, faux flowers and other decorative odds and ends.

Tools and programs required to make the blueprints compatible with ordinary computers will also be provided, as well as a versatile selection of material variations and the means for users to make key decision decisions for each piece.

Design for Download Furniture Droog cabinet

This is not an end unto itself so much as a means to facilitate further interaction (and breaking down barriers) between designers, manufacturers and consumers, blending customization and mass-production techniques in new ways.

Design for Download Droog table

Via Droog:

“At this occasion Droog presented the outcome of its Design for download investigation, announcing the coming of the first platform for downloadable design, which will feature curated and open content, easy-to-use parametric design tools and a network of local low- and high-tech manufacturers. The launch of this platform, featuring various brands and institutions alongside Droog, will occur later this year. The platform will not only include products, but also architecture, home accessories, fashion, food, wearables, inventions and more.”

“At this occasion Droog presented the outcome of its Design for download investigation, announcing the coming of the first platform for downloadable design, which will feature curated and open content, easy-to-use parametric design tools and a network of local low- and high-tech manufacturers. The launch of this platform, featuring various brands and institutions alongside Droog, will occur later this year. The platform will not only include products, but also architecture, home accessories, fashion, food, wearables, inventions and more.”

Design for Download Furniture Droog

“Taking design to the digital realm opens many possibilities. Not only does it have consequence on transport and storage efficiencies, it also calls for new design approaches, innovative digital design tools and online shopping experiences, and innovative business models for all actors along the distribution chain,” says co-founder and director of Droog, Renny Ramakers. “With the opening up of the design industry to consumers now empowered with easy-to-access and low-cost design and production tools, the role of curation becomes ever more important.”