Rediscovering Joe Colombo's Playful Spirit with "Bob"
There’s something magical about the way the 1970s approached design—playful, bold, and unafraid to bend the rules. And if there’s one designer who captured that spirit perfectly, it’s Joe Colombo. One of his lesser-known yet utterly brilliant pieces, Bob, is a reminder of how everyday objects can be both functional and full of personality.
Made from flexible polyurethane gel and infused with the colorful, cheeky energy of the 1960s pop art movement, Bob isn’t just an organizer. It’s a conversation starter. It invites you to rethink how we interact with the small objects in our daily lives—with a wink and a sense of fun.
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A Closer Look at the Design
At first glance, Bob feels almost sculptural. Its organic, flowing shape feels alive—stretching, curving, inviting you to touch and use it. There’s something both casual and ironic about its form, perfectly echoing the era that inspired it. Look closer and you’ll find that the clever design offers multiple compartments, from single-pen holes to wider trays, each designed to catch the miscellanea of daily life with effortless style.
And for those who love the details (because Colombo certainly did): Bob measures about 8 cm high, 55 cm long, and 12.5 cm deep. In inches, that’s roughly 3.15" tall, 21.65" long, and 4.92" deep. Just the right size to slide onto a shelf, a kitchen counter, or a bedside table without ever feeling out of place.
Where Bob Belongs
One of the most delightful things about Bob is its versatility. It feels equally at home perched on a modern bookshelf, bringing a burst of color to a minimal kitchen, or adding a playful note to a sleek office. Its flexible personality means it doesn’t just fit in; it elevates whatever space it inhabits.
And speaking of color—Bob is available in five beautifully curated shades:
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Dust
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Mustard
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Terracotta
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Ocean
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Ice (Studio Temp Edition)
Each one feels like a little nod to the adventurous palettes of the past, yet still looks fresh today.
Colombo’s Enduring Influence
Joe Colombo had a rare gift: he saw the future without letting go of the joy of the present. His work, including Bob, reminds us that design can be both deeply practical and wildly imaginative. Even decades later, Colombo’s creations still feel daring, optimistic, and full of life—a true testament to his vision.
