The ABC Rack stands for Aurora Borealis Clothes rack and is a garderobe for public cloakrooms. It takes inspiration from the Finnish Design Classic Coat rack 109C designed by Alvar Aalto.

“Even the smallest daily chore can be humanised with the harmony of culture.” - Alvar Aalto

The ABC Rack is designed for public spaces. The semi transparent plexiglass opens up the space and people can see through rows of clothes rather than feel enclosed by it.

The yellow shadow mimics the warmth of the sun and creates an inviting, warm atmosphere. The plexiglass is bend along a diagonal line making it possible to access the clothes rack from both sides to maximise space for hanging clothes.

Depending on the time of day and season the user can watch a natural light show unfold. By hanging up clothes, putting down bags or changing shoes, the user also becomes part of the light show and can influence the effect.

The structure of the ABC Rack is simple and can easily be disassembled for transport. It consists only of four parts. Two wooden frames and two bended acrylic sheets. By interlocking the pieces the structure becomes rigid.

For the wooden frames I chose birch wood, a local material from Finland and widely used in Aalto’s works. The plexiglass elements are employed for the properties mentioned above.

Assembling all parts for the first time. I tried to paying attention to each detail of the 1:6 model and also considering the feasibility for industrial production.

Aalto takes many inspirations from nature. As an exchange student in Lapland, one of my favourite experience are the Northern Lights. During a trip to Inari, I was lucky enough to catch a cloudless night and watch the spectacle covering the entire sky. The shape of the ABC Rack is largely influenced by the flowing appearance of the Aurora Borealis.