Architect Bjarke Ingels approached the concept of his new bookcase for Driade as he would a building, developing a freestanding structure of stacked volumes. Called Totem, the shelving unit makes a distinctly architectural impression, enhanced by its pleasing geometry and kinetic energy.

Each of the individual solid oak boxes are sized differently and placed askew, giving Totem a curious sense of movement. The open containers are then split diagonally into quarters with an X-shaped spacer to create small frames or dioramas in which to display personal objects. The self-supporting structure is set on a revolving floor system that allows it to be rotated and easily accessed. Considered by Ingels a “magical, open place to collect one’s perpetual obsessions and daily habits,” Totem from Driade can be transformed into an intimately personal cabinet of curiosities.