Dezeen Magazine

Z Step by Michael Schoner

Z Step by Michael Schoner at Depot Basel

This shop display system by German designer Michael Schoner consists of stackable sheet-metal steps that allow a wide variety of configurations.

Z Step by Michael Schoner

Top: Graphic design on the Z-step. Books by Adriaan MellegersKalle Mattsson and Julia Born Record Sleeves by Kalle Mattsson
Above: Accessories on the Z-step. All shoes by Rosa Roozen. Scarf “Sparkle” from “Patched” Collection by And Beyond. Glasses and bag stylist’s own.

Two or more Z Step units can be combined any way up and accessorised with magnetic bars, knobs and hangers made of beech.

Z Step by Michael Schoner

Above: Objects on the Z-step left to right all by Michael Schoner - Mother and Skull (3d Print), Z Step paper model, Sunrise Lamp, Cedar Donkey, Chop Carafe (Working Model), Double Pyramid Tower (3d Print)

The project is on show as part of an exhibition called Craft and Scenography at Depot Basel in Switzerland until 11 July.

Z Step by Michael Schoner

Above: Fashion on the Z-step left to right - And Beyond: Scarf “Denim Patch” from “Patched” Collection. Femke Agema: from “Nigliktok” Collection (A/W 2012): Cape Blouse in black, Embroided top in mintgreen, Frozen dress in blue. From “Drijf” Collection (S/S 2011): Waves shorts in black, Glasses: stylist own

Check out Schoner's paper animal masks in our earlier story here and his movie of amotorised coat-hanger mobile here.

Z Step by Michael Schoner

See more design for retail on Dezeen »

Z Step by Michael Schoner

Photographs are by Michael Schoner with assistance and styling by Selina Parr.

Z Step by Michael Schoner

Here's some more information from Schoner:


Z Step is a display system made from sheet metal based on steps of 33 x 33 x 33 cm. Two of these steps can be stacked and assembled in different ways. They form different spacial configurations.

Z Step by Michael Schoner

There are magnetic bars, knobs and coat-hangers carved from beech wood to fix items on the Z Step. In this way it becomes easy and versatile to show any kind of item like books, magazines, shoes, clothes, accessories, or other kind of products.

Z Step by Michael Schoner

Craft and Scenography 08

There is nothing more thrilling than a good conversation between different disciplines. We bring together a range of contemporary cultures to create an impressive set of references around craft and scenography – some of them are visually pleasing, some of them are collectable.

Z Step by Michael Schoner