Dezeen Magazine

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

Want to work on those biceps at home but embarrassed to have the dumbbells lying around? Like the idea of carrying a cane but feel less self-conscious with an umbrella? Think a pocket mirror would be handy but not sure it will go with your suit?

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

Swedish designer Tove Thambert's collection of Objects in Disguise includes dumbbells disguised as candlesticks, a cane with the profile of an umbrella and a mirror on a pocket watch chain.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

The series also includes a stirling silver card-holder to sit in place of a handkerchief in the top pocket, a tasselled brooch resembling a pen and a bracelet that could be mistaken for a watch.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

Thambert presented the series at the Swedish Ambassador's Residence during the London Design Festival as part of an exhibition entitled Hemma: Swedish Design Goes London.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

See all our stories about the London Design Festival in our special event category.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

Here are some more details from Tove Thambert:


Objects in disguise

A collection of objects designed on the theme of camouflage: a cane masquerading as an umbrella becomes an elegant accessory.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

What first appears to be a couple of candlesticks is in fact a set of dumbbells, designed to blend in with the home environment.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

Silver jewellery and accessories are disguised to be discrete enough for the man in suit.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

In this collection I have explored the concept of camouflage within the design context.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

These objects are my interpretations of a new kind of functionality and are also questioning preconceptions about gender and design traditions.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

The collection features:

  • Dumbbells "Light&Heavy". Cast iron. Three different weight levels
  • Walking cane "Walk Me" Lackered wood, aluminum and leather details
Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert
  • Card holder "Double Fold". Sterling silver
  • Pocket mirror "Watch Me". Sterling silver, metal
Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert
  • Brooch "Got a pen?". Polished aluminum, sterling silver
  • Bracelet "Half Time". Sterling silver, crystals.
Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

All objects - prices on request. Some of the objects will be in production soon, others will be made by order.

Objects in Disguise by Tove Thambert

Tove Thambert

Educated at Konstfack in Stockholm (industrial design) and Parsons in New York (fashion studies). Holds an MFA in industrial design. Lives in Stockholm. Works with product design as well as her own jewellery design and strategy/trend analysis.