Homes are becoming smart–which means they’re increasingly dependent on electricity. But what if furniture could act as its own energy source?
A new furniture line called Patch by Brooklyn-based studio UM Project proposes exactly that: three cabinets, with built-in lighting, sound, and device charging stations, along with a mirror and a curtain, connect to an outdoor bench with a solar panel overhang that can power them all for up to 24 hours.
The collection, which is on display at this year’s Milan furniture fair, transforms a small space into a microgrid. The batteries spread out within each piece of furniture, allowing the group of furniture to functions as the space’s energy source.
The microgrid’s solar energy lasts for 24 hours and takes eight hours to recharge. UM Project says the system is enough to power a micro-apartment (though the question remains, where would you put the solar panels if you live in such a tiny space?).
Patch will be on display at Salone del Mobile’s Ventura Future show until April 22. The concept is a one-off and is for sale, with price upon request.