Sardine Collector’s Cabinet by Michael Marriot

Design Classic – Influential and important design

Sardine Collector’s Cabinet

• Designer: Michael Marriot
• Material: MDF, sardine tins, wing nuts
• Manufacturer: Space UK, London England

The Sardine Collector’s Cabinet, designed by Michael Marriot, is a testament to innovative and sustainable design. Introduced in 1996, this piece was a highlight of the Crafts Council’s “Recycling: Forms for The Next Century” exhibition held in London. The exhibition emphasized the burgeoning interest in alternative design practices, material reuse, and environmentally conscious design philosophies.

Michael Marriot: An Influential Designer

Michael Marriot, an alumnus of the Royal College of Art’s furniture department, is renowned for his whimsical and thought-provoking creations. His work often reflects a deep engagement with sustainability principles and the inventive use of found materials. The Sardine Collector’s Cabinet is no exception, showcasing his unique ability to blend humour, simplicity, and elegance in a functional piece of furniture.

The Design and Materials

The Sardine Collector’s Cabinet is constructed from medium-density fibreboard (MDF), a versatile and widely used material in furniture design. However, what sets this cabinet apart is its drawers, which are ingeniously made from sardine tins. These tins, secured with wing nuts, add a distinctive and playful element to the piece, challenging traditional notions of what materials are appropriate in high design.

Recycling and Environmental Consciousness

The exhibition in which the Sardine Collector’s Cabinet was featured focused on the rising trend of recycling and the use of alternative materials in design. This movement was part of a broader push towards reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability in the arts and design sectors. Marriot’s work echoes the sentiments of Victor Papanek and the Whole Earth Catalogue from the 1960s, which advocated for environmentally responsible design.

Found Objects and Material Innovation

Marriot’s approach to design often involves using found objects, which he recontextualizes to create new and meaningful pieces. By utilizing readily available but often overlooked materials, he not only produces visually intriguing works but also fosters a sense of familiarity and nostalgia. This method of working with discovered items aligns with a growing appreciation for upcycling and the creative reuse of materials.

Some notable examples of Marriot’s innovative use of found materials include:

• A table made from an old oil drum, castors, and a chipboard top.
• A wall light fashioned from a classic glass lemon squeezer, plywood, and shelf brackets.

These pieces exemplify Marriot’s skill in transforming everyday objects into functional art, thereby questioning and expanding the boundaries of conventional design.

The Legacy of the Sardine Collector’s Cabinet

The Sardine Collector’s Cabinet remains a significant work in modern design. It challenges us to reconsider the materials we use and the way we think about sustainability and functionality in design. Marriot’s playful yet purposeful approach inspires future generations of designers who seek to innovate while remaining mindful of their environmental impact.

Sources

McDermott, C. (2011). Modern design: Classics of our time. Carlton Books.

More interesting ‘Design Classics’