The cradle of creativity — 25 years of sustainable product design
It is iconic design projects like this that yellow design counts among its sustainable classics:
With the unmistakable Pelikan paint box for preschool children, yellow design conceived and designed an innovative didactic product 25 years ago that still enjoys great popularity on the market today due to its timeless and functional design. After its launch in 1998, the paint box was awarded the “Roter Punkt” for its outstanding design innovation by one of the most renowned design institutions in Europe—the Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen (later the red dot design award).
During the development and design of the paint box, the yellow team focused on the methodological-didactic dimension. Sociological research and ergonomic studies were used to develop a child-friendly design language that incorporates and promotes the creative development of children in their playful handling of colour. A decisive point of the design concept was the sphere as a form: Based on the small child’s hand that grasps and grasps, the ball is the design element that determines the form and function of the paint box.
The round paint bowls, which can be purchased and exchanged individually as replacement colours, can be removed from the paint box and at the same time have a “stand-up function” with a secure base. This means that the colours can stand freely on the table—without tipping over—and can be used by several children for painting. The large supply of paint and a high rim of the bowls make it easier to mix the colours and to wipe off the brush, which is also designed to be child-friendly.
The transparent lid can be completely detached from the tin thanks to an intelligent no-glue concept with two easy-open clips and formally takes up the round shape of the paint pots. Turned upside down, this lid serves as a water reservoir and large mixing palette for the little artists.
Learn more about this project here.