Industrial designer Adam Miklosi has developed an innovative modular coat rack system that transforms leftover aluminum extrusions into functional art pieces with distinctive character. The project emerged from Miklosi's self-directed work creating primitive car sculptures from aluminum extrusions, when he sought a practical application for the remaining materials. His entry into DesignWanted's Rethink the Coat Rack competition showcases how industrial waste can be reimagined into customizable home accessories that balance structural integrity with playful aesthetics.
The design process began with early ideation rounds that explored various configurations and attachment mechanisms for the extrusions. Miklosi produced several 3D-printed prototypes to test proportions, attachment logic, and the character of the hooks on actual aluminum profiles before developing detailed render visualizations. This hands-on approach allowed him to refine the balance between industrial structure and customizable elements, ensuring the final concept would be both functional and visually engaging. The designer expressed genuine satisfaction with the early-stage results, noting that the rough prototypes already demonstrated the potential for a product that could appeal to design-conscious consumers.
What sets Miklosi's coat rack apart is its modular nature, which allows users to create personalized configurations that suit their specific spatial and aesthetic needs. The system reflects a broader trend in contemporary industrial design toward adaptable, user-customizable products that evolve with changing lifestyles. By arranging the aluminum elements into different compositions, owners can transform the piece from a minimalist wall-mounted rack to a more elaborate sculptural installation. This flexibility echoes design philosophies popularized by innovative furniture brands in the 1990s, particularly the playful yet functional approach that made companies like Alessi household names among design enthusiasts.
The coat rack's aesthetic draws comparisons to the iconic work of Alessi during that decade, when design prioritized joy, experimentation, and accessibility without sacrificing quality or functionality. Miklosi's creation captures that spirit through its combination of industrial materials and whimsical arrangement possibilities. The aluminum extrusions provide a clean, modern foundation while the customizable hook placement and composition options inject personality and fun into what might otherwise be a mundane household object. This balance positions the product as both a practical storage solution and a conversation piece.
Beyond the competition entry, industry observers suggest Miklosi could easily develop a commercial side hustle around the design. The market for well-designed, affordable home accessories continues to grow, particularly among younger consumers who value both sustainability and aesthetic appeal. The use of recycled or leftover materials also addresses increasing environmental concerns in manufacturing, potentially giving the product an additional marketing advantage. The coat rack's relatively simple production requirements could make it feasible for small-batch manufacturing or even customizable orders.
The project highlights the vibrant industrial design community documented by platforms like Core77, which connects designers with resources and audiences. Miklosi's work stands alongside innovations from established design consultancies such as Y Studios in San Francisco, Hatch Duo with its award-winning team, and DCA Design International, one of the world's leading multidisciplinary firms since 1960. This context demonstrates how independent designers can create compelling work that holds its own against established studios, particularly when combining sustainability, functionality, and playful design thinking in equal measure.
