Additional handles, missing legs and exaggerated heights are some of features that make up Köppen‘s family of eight wooden objects. Developed for her thesis project at Design Academy Eindhoven, the collection pushes the absurdity envelope with objects that read as furniture but aren’t designed with just function in mind. Called Learn to Unlearn, the concept aims to disrupt our daily routine and re-wire us to look more closely at familiar items and how they work. They are set-up-for-failure designs but with a positive spin. Köppen says she’s optimistic about sparking new human experiences with her semi-functional pieces.

Köppen’s one-armed lamp switches on when lifted off its bristled base, revealing a dim glow. When placed back on its base, the light goes out.

The Tenuity container (left) is devised with no walls or base, relying on the user to determine what sort of object can be stored in it. The one-armed box (right) features walls but is bottomless, functioning as a beginner’s version of Tenuity.

Köppen’s circular object (left) functions mainly as a mode of transportation for goods, but when topped with glass, the piece morphs into a low side table. Meanwhile, what appears to be a two-armed broom (right) could very well be used as a toy.

The long hair broom (left) is the most archetypal piece of the series. The exaggerated lengths of blue bristles invite users to engage it like a dance partner responding to movements. The very tall shelf (right) expands to take up a substantial amount of space. It’s built with flexible components that allow users to slide the legs outward and lower the shelf for accessibility.

Her two-legged stool encourages (or forces, rather) focused concentration when sitting. Trust in balance is crucial to avoid messy meals and interrupted conversations.