Dezeen Magazine

Daniele Cristiano's Calibro sideboard references an old ammunition box

Italian designer Daniele Cristiano has created a multipurpose storage unit that is shaped to look like a vintage ammunition chest.

Calibro furniture chest by Daniele Cristiano for Formabilio

Cristiano has created the sideboard for furniture brand Formabilio.

Its name Calibro is derived from the word calibre, which refers to the internal diameter or bore of a gun barrel and is also used in Italian to describe a vernier caliper measuring instrument.

Calibro furniture chest by Daniele Cristiano for Formabilio

The long, low sideboard has spaces cut out from the centre and at each end for storage.

Three orange leather belt straps wrap around the ends of the chest, which are designed to look like the buckles found on old wooden ammunition trunks that were used in the first world war. It can be used as a sideboard, a TV stand or as a table.

Calibro furniture chest by Daniele Cristiano for Formabilio

"The decayed purpose of this furniture piece becomes modern and Calibro turns into media unit in the living room," said Cristiano.

"It can also be a storage bench at the entrance, where you can place books, ornaments, vases and various objects, or in the centre of the room as a coffee table."

Calibro furniture chest by Daniele Cristiano for Formabilio

The sideboard is made from solid spruce wood, which is hand coated with a natural oil finish.

Calibro furniture chest by Daniele Cristiano for Formabilio

"Calibro has simple lines and strong contrasts between materials," Cristiano said. "The overall effect is an original decor that combines functionality, modern design and a hint of retro style."

Calibro furniture chest by Daniele Cristiano for Formabilio

Other furniture created for Formabilio is the Ivetta rocking chair by Giancarlo Cutello, the Bloemi lamp by Mario Alessiani and a floor lamp by Yu Ito.