The name says it all: Boffi’s On/Off kitchen, designed by Alberto Colonello, transforms from a solid paneled wall into a full-functioning, gourmet kitchen nearly instantaneously. Designed to look like a single mono block of steel when closed, the minimalist kitchen is marked by a smooth and unobtrusive exterior that conceals everything from the sink and stove to the wall oven. As with the notorious Polly Pocket (from the 1980s) the On/Off kitchen packs itself into a compact “case” when not in use.

On/Off. Designed by Alberto Colonello for Boffi.

The same idea applies: as the case is unfolded the parts are revealed. On/Off is the ideal solution for a small apartment or loft space, occupying only a single wall and camouflaging itself into a modern facade when”off.” All modules can be opened either manually or by use of electronic devices, providing for extreme ease of use. When not in use, the kitchen is “off,” meaning that it remains entirely closed and seemingly disappears into the space. When the kitchen is ‘on’ it is opened and operational. The fully-enclosed system creates a facade facing the interior of the room. Hinged and double-hinged (or bifold) doors open upwards or sideways to reveal the contents of a conventional kitchen. Counter space, a kitchen sink, storage and a stovetop are located behind a horizontal bifold door system that rises to reveal the contents. Vertical units contain additional elements such as an oven or refrigerator and further storage. Simple lines and barely visible metal handles create the mono-block aesthetic intended by the designer. The clean metal surface and lack of visible hardware or detailing is similar to that of Invitrum by Valcucine.

The On/Off kitchen designed by Alberto Colonello for Boffi is a truly innovative concept which aims to streamline the appearance of our cluttered kitchens. For those who can’t stand the site of dirty dishes (but lack the energy and motivation to wash them right away) On/Off provides a brilliant solution. When unexpected company drops by, simply turn the system “off.”  It epitomizes the concept of being there when you need it and gone when you don’t.

via Trendir