Iron Baby, Kids' and Children's Products Design · 2025
3 Khan Multifunctional Kids Product
by Nastaran Akbari and Davood Manafi
- A' Design Award 2025 Iron Winner in Baby, Kids' and Children's Products Design
- Awarded April 15, 2025
- CLIENT: Madstudio
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 27,189
- Verification code E4962DD7FB · Verify this award
About 3 Khan Multifunctional Kids Product
The 3 Khan is an innovative product for children aged 1 to 7, designed to enhance creativity and developmental skills through assembly. It transforms into three configurations: Single Table, Double Table, and Cottage, all packaged in The Box of 3 Khan (The Truck). The product promotes practical skills via mechanical connections and tools while encouraging imaginative play. Featuring hand-painted illustrations inspired by The Book of Kings; an epic work of Persian literature, fosters family interaction and storytelling, making it a valuable product for both learning and cultural connection.
Nastaran Akbari's 3 Khan Multifunctional Kids Product engages longstanding traditions of child-centered design that honor young users through appropriately scaled furniture offering both functional utility and imaginative possibility, this trio of Baltic birch plywood forms demonstrates sophisticated understanding of how children's environments can support development through thoughtfully conceived objects that balance practical needs with creative play, the design seemingly draws upon Scandinavian pedagogical furniture traditions extending from early modernist experiments in educational settings through contemporary sustainable design movements emphasizing natural materials and honest construction, each of the three configurations shares consistent material vocabulary and joinery methodology while offering distinct spatial possibilities, the leftmost compact table form provides stable elevated surface for creative activities or dining at child-appropriate height, the central elongated bench extends seating or display possibilities through horizontal emphasis, while the rightmost peaked-roof variation transforms utilitarian platform into symbolic architectural shelter that invites imaginative appropriation as house, cave, stage, or whatever narrative framework a young user might project upon it, the visible black metal corner brackets articulating each piece serve both structural necessity and pedagogical function, making assembly logic legible and suggesting how components connect, this transparency of construction potentially fostering early spatial reasoning and mechanical understanding, the natural plywood finish exhibits warm honey tones and subtle grain patterns that bring organic warmth to children's spaces while avoiding overstimulating color or applied decoration, this material restraint reflects design philosophy privileging timeless aesthetic over trend-driven styling, the forms' clean geometric vocabulary and precise manufacturing suggest quality construction intended for durability across multiple childhood stages or even generational use, the modular nature and transformable possibilities address practical considerations of space efficiency particularly relevant in contemporary living environments where adaptable furniture maximizes functional flexibility, the progressive house-form evolution from simple table through extended bench to sheltered enclosure suggests narrative sequence that might spark imaginative play scenarios, children potentially arranging the pieces to create village, neighborhood, or other spatial configurations, the design's minimalist restraint paradoxically enables maximum creative projection, providing structured framework without prescriptive theming that might limit interpretive possibility, comparisons might be drawn to pedagogical furniture traditions from Froebel's kindergarten gifts through Montessori prepared environments to contemporary Reggio Emilia-inspired spaces, all emphasizing how thoughtfully designed objects can scaffold learning and creative development, the elevated photography angle and pristine white studio context present the pieces with museum-quality dignity, suggesting these transcend mere utilitarian children's products to claim status as considered design objects worthy of aesthetic appreciation, this presentation invites adult specifiers, parents, educators, and design enthusiasts to recognize how furniture for children can embody design excellence while serving developmental needs, the work prompts contemplation of how we construct childhood environments and what values we communicate through the objects we provide young users, whether prioritizing disposable novelty or investing in durable well-designed pieces that respect children's capacity for sophisticated aesthetic experience and creative engagement with their material world.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- The 3 Khan is designed for children aged one to seven, offering versatile functionality as detailed below: 1. Single Table 2. Double Table 3. Cottage And a Truck (The Box of 3 Khan)
- Dimensions & Packaging
- The 3 Khan pack includes:
- Single Table: 600 mm, 500 mm, 560 mm
- Double Table: 1200 mm, 500 mm, 560 mm
- Cottage: 884 mm, 500 mm, 902 mm
- Child's Chair for Ages 1 to 3: 280 mm, 300 mm/260mm, 420 mm
- Child's Chair for Ages 3 to 7: 280 mm, 300 mm, 420 mm
- Four metal connectors for attaching the single table's top to its legs
- Two metal connectors for the double table
- Two metal connectors for the cottage
- Truck for The Box of 3 Khan: 670 mm, 530 mm, 320 mm - Tags
- Kids, Children, Furniture, Table, Cottage, Family, Toy, Education, Entertainment
- Production Technology
- With the rising popularity of multi-user products, this item is designed to meet the diverse needs of children. Its main structure is made of plywood, with hand-painted images from the Shahnameh(The Book of Kings; an epic work of Persian literature). The aluminum connections feature a sliding design, allowing for three different configurations, thereby enhancing its versatility.
- Design Challenge
- The product's bodies are positioned using easily assembled joints that require no mechanical tools. A key challenge was ensuring these joints were strong enough to hold the structures. Various designs were tested, but most were rejected due to looseness. Ultimately, sliding joints of suitable lengths and widths were achieved through trial and error.
- Project Duration
- The project started in October 2023 in Tehran and finished in November 2024 in Tehran.
- Operation Flow
- We modeled the three states that the product can transform into and examined the connections between them, ensuring they are secure and strong. One design goal was to connect the parts like a puzzle, so we chose aluminum for the connections due to its suitability for extrusion. We used plywood for the main parts to create grooves that guide assembly, making it easy to put together. We optimized the lengths to enhance strength while incorporating a measure of flexibility.
- Research
- This product, designed for children aged one to seven, was developed through research on children's needs and parental insights. It features versatile dimensions that allow for conversion between a single table, a double table, and a cottage, considering budget constraints and limited home space. Key goals include enhancing parent-child relationships, encouraging discussions about stories, and fostering children's skills through assembly activities.
- Inspiration
- As children grow and their needs change at each developmental stage, they encounter various challenges that require adaptability from their families. The rise of technology has also impacted the quality of interactions between parents and children. This product is designed to meet these evolving needs, empowering families to navigate these transitions successfully and foster stronger connections.
- Image Credits
- Photographer : deedstudio
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Colors of 3 Khan Multifunctional Kids Product
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Design Interview about 3 Khan Multifunctional Kids Product
The 3 Khan is a multifunctional product designed to transform into three different configurations—a single table, a double table, and a wooden cottage. Children, with the guidance of parents or educators, can actively participate in assembling and transforming the product, enhancing their engagement and curiosity.
Whether playing with a friend or sitting with an adult, the child can enjoy group activities such as drawing, storytelling, playtime, or shared meals. The puzzle-like assembly keeps the child’s mind curious and engaged. This hands-on interaction strengthens both cognitive and practical skills while introducing children to basic mechanical concepts through safe and playful work with tools and connectors.
Whether playing with a friend or sitting with an adult, the child can enjoy group activities such as drawing, storytelling, playtime, or shared meals. The puzzle-like assembly keeps the child’s mind curious and engaged. This hands-on interaction strengthens both cognitive and practical skills while introducing children to basic mechanical concepts through safe and playful work with tools and connectors.
Our Core Purpose
Our main goal is to foster meaningful interaction between children and their parents while introducing young minds to ancient cultural heritage. This is achieved through the hand-painted illustrations on the product, inspired by epic stories from the Shahnameh—The Book of Kings, an epic work of Persian literature. These visual narratives naturally spark curiosity in children and encourage parents to share the stories behind them, deepening emotional bonds and communication within the family.
In today’s world, where children’s technical and hands-on abilities are in decline, this design intentionally focuses on reviving those skills. With the help of parents or educators, children are encouraged to explore and utilize the product in its various configurations.
Our main goal is to foster meaningful interaction between children and their parents while introducing young minds to ancient cultural heritage. This is achieved through the hand-painted illustrations on the product, inspired by epic stories from the Shahnameh—The Book of Kings, an epic work of Persian literature. These visual narratives naturally spark curiosity in children and encourage parents to share the stories behind them, deepening emotional bonds and communication within the family.
In today’s world, where children’s technical and hands-on abilities are in decline, this design intentionally focuses on reviving those skills. With the help of parents or educators, children are encouraged to explore and utilize the product in its various configurations.
Along with developing a personal brand, a key objective is to attract investors for the production and commercialization of the product.
A Smart Solution Born from Real Needs
Faced with a limited budget and a lack of space, a client requested practical furniture for children. After exploring existing options in the market and encountering challenges, an idea emerged: why not design a table that could transform into a cottage or tent, be easy to move, and adapt as the child grows up to age seven? The result was The 3 Khan—a single package that offers four unique functions in one compact and creative solution.
Faced with a limited budget and a lack of space, a client requested practical furniture for children. After exploring existing options in the market and encountering challenges, an idea emerged: why not design a table that could transform into a cottage or tent, be easy to move, and adapt as the child grows up to age seven? The result was The 3 Khan—a single package that offers four unique functions in one compact and creative solution.
Currently, we are developing this innovative product exclusively for Mad Studio. We plan to start mass production both within Iran and internationally. We are seeking enthusiastic investors.
During the design process and market research in Iran, we discovered that no product could fully address the essential needs of both children and their parents. Our goal was to create something that was not only functional but also engaging, ensuring it would never be boring.
3 Khan is a multifunctional product that transforms into three different configurations based on the child’s age and needs: a single table, a double table, and a wooden cottage. With just a few simple adjustments, children can explore and enjoy new setups, keeping the experience fresh and exciting.
Even the product box is part of the play. Designed as a wooden truck, it allows children to store their toys and books, pull it with a rope and wooden handle, and take it with them wherever they go — at home, in the garden, or during group activities.
We also wanted to convey the idea that heroic and historical tales don't belong only in books. The illustrated characters on the product spark curiosity and interest in storytelling, encouraging children to ask questions and delve into the narratives behind them.
3 Khan creates opportunities for play, group interaction, storytelling, and shared experiences — all while fostering a deeper connection between children and their parents.
3 Khan is a multifunctional product that transforms into three different configurations based on the child’s age and needs: a single table, a double table, and a wooden cottage. With just a few simple adjustments, children can explore and enjoy new setups, keeping the experience fresh and exciting.
Even the product box is part of the play. Designed as a wooden truck, it allows children to store their toys and books, pull it with a rope and wooden handle, and take it with them wherever they go — at home, in the garden, or during group activities.
We also wanted to convey the idea that heroic and historical tales don't belong only in books. The illustrated characters on the product spark curiosity and interest in storytelling, encouraging children to ask questions and delve into the narratives behind them.
3 Khan creates opportunities for play, group interaction, storytelling, and shared experiences — all while fostering a deeper connection between children and their parents.
Parents and educators of children aged one to seven years.
Several key aspects set this design apart from others:
- It promotes meaningful interaction between parents and children, encouraging shared activities and communication.
- It introduces children to historical and cultural stories, sparking their curiosity through visual storytelling inspired by epic literature.
- It helps develop children's hands-on, hardware-related skills at a time when society increasingly emphasizes digital and soft skills.
- It encourages the efficient and multifunctional use of materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and addressing concerns about environmental impact and material recycling.
- It promotes meaningful interaction between parents and children, encouraging shared activities and communication.
- It introduces children to historical and cultural stories, sparking their curiosity through visual storytelling inspired by epic literature.
- It helps develop children's hands-on, hardware-related skills at a time when society increasingly emphasizes digital and soft skills.
- It encourages the efficient and multifunctional use of materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and addressing concerns about environmental impact and material recycling.
"The 3 Khan" is inspired by the legendary Seven Labors of Rostam (Haft Khan-e Rostam), a celebrated episode from the Persian epic Shahnameh. Just as Rostam confronts a series of challenges on his journey, a child interacting with this product embarks on a journey of exploration, transformation, and discovery.
The product evolves through three stages, ultimately culminating in a wooden cottage—a symbolic home for the child. To enhance this cultural connection, hand-painted illustrations depicting scenes from the Haft Khan are applied directly to the wooden surfaces of the product. This transformation makes The 3 Khan more than just a toy; it becomes a unique fusion of play, storytelling, and cultural heritage.
The product evolves through three stages, ultimately culminating in a wooden cottage—a symbolic home for the child. To enhance this cultural connection, hand-painted illustrations depicting scenes from the Haft Khan are applied directly to the wooden surfaces of the product. This transformation makes The 3 Khan more than just a toy; it becomes a unique fusion of play, storytelling, and cultural heritage.
The product requires no mechanical tools such as screws to transform into its three different configurations.
One of the unique features of The 3 Khan is that it relies entirely on repositioning components at precise 90° or 135° angles—no screws, bolts, or additional hardware are needed. This intuitive design makes the transformation process simple and safe.
One of the unique features of The 3 Khan is that it relies entirely on repositioning components at precise 90° or 135° angles—no screws, bolts, or additional hardware are needed. This intuitive design makes the transformation process simple and safe.
After completing the initial design, I needed someone with expertise in mechanical connections and technical execution to help further develop the idea, as my background is in architecture. During this phase, I consulted several individuals, many of whom believed the concept was unrealistic—that a table transforming into multiple functional forms wasn’t feasible. Fortunately, I was introduced to Dr. Davood Manafi, a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering. Through a series of collaborative sessions, we realized that the concept could indeed be brought to life with the desired outcome.
Once we reached the prototype stage, I sought an artist who was passionate about Persian culture to help bring the illustrations from the Shahnameh to life in a way that would be both educational and captivating for children under seven. My mother, Mrs. Leila Sohbati, is a painter, and together we began reading and researching the Shahnameh to select suitable stories. We collaborated closely—from conceptual sketches to final colors and details—to hand-paint the chosen scenes directly onto the wooden surfaces of the product.
Once we reached the prototype stage, I sought an artist who was passionate about Persian culture to help bring the illustrations from the Shahnameh to life in a way that would be both educational and captivating for children under seven. My mother, Mrs. Leila Sohbati, is a painter, and together we began reading and researching the Shahnameh to select suitable stories. We collaborated closely—from conceptual sketches to final colors and details—to hand-paint the chosen scenes directly onto the wooden surfaces of the product.
I conducted research focused on children aged one to six, specifically within the context of Iranian society. To better understand their interests and developmental needs, I engaged in conversations with several parents about their practical expectations for products aimed at this age group. Additionally, I studied child psychology literature and spent meaningful time with children to gain a deeper insight into their world. These efforts were crucial in shaping a design that is both emotionally engaging and developmentally appropriate.
During the design process, we aimed to preserve the original connection structure between parts, but we anticipated that the product might face challenges in stability, particularly in the double table and cottage configurations.
We began prototyping, and our assumptions were confirmed: while the single table worked well, the double table setup did not hold the intended 90 degree angle and tended to collapse inward. The cottage configuration also failed to achieve the desired 135 degree angle due to insufficient support.
This led us to closely study the thickness and strength of the connector pieces to ensure they could reliably hold the wooden elements in place. After modifying the shape and structure of the connectors, the visual and technical outcomes improved significantly. We proceeded with a second round of testing, which showed great progress.
Eventually, by slightly increasing the thickness of the joints, we achieved the desired level of stability and performance. By the third prototype, the product was structurally sound, safe, and stable in all three configurations. Remarkably, in the double table configuration, it was even able to support the weight of an adult—something we hadn’t expected at first.
We began prototyping, and our assumptions were confirmed: while the single table worked well, the double table setup did not hold the intended 90 degree angle and tended to collapse inward. The cottage configuration also failed to achieve the desired 135 degree angle due to insufficient support.
This led us to closely study the thickness and strength of the connector pieces to ensure they could reliably hold the wooden elements in place. After modifying the shape and structure of the connectors, the visual and technical outcomes improved significantly. We proceeded with a second round of testing, which showed great progress.
Eventually, by slightly increasing the thickness of the joints, we achieved the desired level of stability and performance. By the third prototype, the product was structurally sound, safe, and stable in all three configurations. Remarkably, in the double table configuration, it was even able to support the weight of an adult—something we hadn’t expected at first.
Focusing on children has been a crucial aspect of this design process. Well-designed products can improve the experience, particularly during those precious moments shared during learning, play, and growth. Thoughtful design can strengthen the bond between parents and children.
Grand Interview about 3 Khan Multifunctional Kids Product
We have always aimed for the 3 Khan product to be more than just an entertainment tool. In Iran, the education surrounding the Shahnameh has often been overlooked, despite it being one of the most important and influential works in Persian literature, composed over a thousand years ago in the 10th century AD. Beyond its crucial role in preserving the Persian language, the Shahnameh contains many moral and educational tales.In our product, we have selected age-appropriate stories for children, such as the birth of Rostam, the Seven Labors (Haft Khan) of Rostam, and the legendary Simorgh, who plays a key role in helping the hero. These stories are not only exciting and imaginative, but they are also rich in symbolic meaning: Rostam represents bravery and resilience, Simorgh embodies wisdom and nurturing care. As the protector and guide, she is illustrated larger to visually emphasize her central role in the child’s imaginary journey. and the Haft Khan symbolizes personal growth and the confrontation of challenges.To make these stories relatable to children, we consulted with professional writers and incorporated motifs from traditional Iranian art. We also used a color palette inspired by Persian miniature painting, which is bright, expressive, and emotionally engaging for children.Additionally, Iran has a traditional art form called Naqqali, in which a storyteller performs Shahnameh tales in a dramatic and engaging manner. In our design, the role of the storyteller is given to the child’s family, allowing parents or caregivers to narrate the engraved stories on the product, shaped by their own values and parenting styles. This cultural layering allows the product to function not only as a toy but also as a bridge between generations, heritage, and learning.
We prioritized both the manufacturing process and ease of assembly. We explored several connection concepts before arriving at our final solution. This idea was inspired by principles from fixture design in manufacturing engineering, which significantly influenced our approach. We selected aluminum as the primary material because it allows for efficient production through extrusion methods. To ensure stability, we carefully calculated and tested the engagement length between the wooden components and the connectors. Importantly, we also accounted for appropriate clearance in these calculations to guarantee a smooth and straightforward assembly process.
Since the child cannot assemble the product alone, they need their parents' assistance, which naturally encourages interaction between them. Furthermore, the assembly process is straightforward because it does not involve numerous screws, bolts, or complex components, making it neither time-consuming nor frustrating. As the child actively participates in assembling the 3 Khan product and sees results quickly, their enthusiasm and self-confidence increase. The ability to create different configurations depending on how the parts are assembled keeps the product fresh and engaging for the child, stimulating their mind.In terms of storytelling elements, the 3 Khan product features various illustrations with different designs and colors. This often sparks the child's curiosity, prompting questions such as: Who is this character? Why is she here? Why is her hair reaching down the tower walls? Such questions lead to meaningful conversations between the child and their parents. These interactions become gateways to storytelling, where parents recount the legendary tales behind the illustrations. In many cases, the child’s interest extends beyond the initial story, motivating them to ask about what happened before or after, thereby fostering a deeper connection to Persian literature, especially the Shahnameh.
During the design process and our review of existing market products, we observed that most children's items feature very simple designs. In contrast, our goal for the 3 Khan was to create a product that is not only functionally unique but also visually appealing to children. With this in mind, we chose the Shahnameh as our narrative theme, as it offers imagery that can be beautifully integrated into the design elements of the 3 Khan. Rather than using stickers, we decided to collaborate with artists, hoping this approach would ignite children's interest in handcrafted art in the future. Furthermore, each artist can infuse their unique style into the product, adding even more value and character.
To ensure that our product suits children aged 1 to 7, we began with ergonomic studies to determine appropriate dimensions for each age group. For example, the seat height needed to be adaptable to support comfort and functionality across a wide age range. As a result, we designed two seat sizes: one optimized for toddlers aged 1 to 3, and another for children aged 3 to 7. These seats can be paired with the desk in various configurations, making the desk comfortably usable for all children in the 1 to 7 age range. The modular design allows the entire product to evolve with the child’s developmental stage — from a playful cottage for toddlers to a functional study space for older kids — ensuring lasting relevance throughout early childhood.
In today’s world, where resources are limited, there’s no room for single-use packaging. That’s why we decided early in the design process that the 3 Khan product’s packaging should also be part of the play experience. Instead of a traditional box, 3 Khan is sold inside a wooden truck — a toy vehicle that not only stores all the components neatly but also serves as a functional part of the product itself.Designed with a wooden handle, the truck is easy for children to pull and move by themselves. This mobility makes it more than just packaging — it becomes a part of the play and learning experience.Our research showed that children love transporting things. So we designed this truck to double as a storage unit for toys or personal belongings — something both children and parents can use daily. When the 3 Khan product is used in its table or single-seat configuration, any unused parts can be neatly stored inside the truck. This eliminates the need for parents to find additional storage space and helps keep everything organized.What makes this packaging special is that it immediately sparks curiosity. During user testing, we saw that children were excited to discover how the wooden pieces and connectors emerged from inside the truck, transforming into something entirely new. The truck doesn’t just carry the product — it carries a story, a surprise, and a whole world of creative possibilities.
In designing and developing the multifunctional kids' product, The 3 Khan, our goal from the very beginning was to create a genuine balance between practical functionality and cultural-aesthetic identity. We aimed for it to be more than just a plaything; we wanted it to carry meaningful cultural and emotional value. We chose natural, child-safe materials to provide peace of mind for families. Additionally, we carefully shaped the forms and selected colors that would be engaging for children while resonating culturally with parents. The name 3 Khan and its tripartite structure symbolically reference traditional narratives, giving the product a deeper significance beyond its practical use. Our aim was to design an experience where children could play safely, express their creativity, and—perhaps without realizing it—connect with their cultural heritage. For us, The 3 Khan is more than just a product; it is a layered design experience that unites beauty, functionality, safety, and meaning.
One of our primary concerns from the beginning was to create a product that genuinely addresses the needs of today’s families. Before diving into the design process, we conducted extensive research on parent-child relationships, urban lifestyles, and the challenges of modern parenting. This research was instrumental in shaping our design direction. We aimed for The 3 Khan to be more than just another toy; our goal was to foster meaningful interactions between children and their parents. Recognizing the limited living spaces in urban environments, we focused on designing a product that is multifunctional and compact, while still serving various needs. It was also crucial for us that children take an active role in using the product, making decisions, experimenting, being creative, and developing a sense of independence. This philosophy informed every aspect of our design. Additionally, a personal goal for us was to subtly connect the product to our cultural identity. Inspired by symbolic elements like The 3 Khan and the stories from the Shahnameh, we aimed to create an environment where children could naturally engage with cultural and moral ideas as they play. Ultimately, the 3 Khan represents our effort to demonstrate that it’s possible to design a children’s product that is not only practical but also culturally meaningful, visually appealing, and thoughtfully crafted.
Winning the prestigious A' Design Award for The 3 Khan was a significant and memorable milestone in our design journey. This achievement represented more than just receiving an award; it confirmed that thoughtfully combining cultural depth with functional design can create a product that is both practical and meaningful, while also gaining recognition on a global level. This experience demonstrated that attention to detail, creativity, and staying true to cultural roots can create lasting value in design.
The 3 Khan Multifunctional Kids Product is designed to enhance both cognitive development and cultural learning in children. This is achieved through its modular design, transformable configurations, and creative assembly process. Here’s how these elements are integrated into the design: - For Cognitive Development:- Interactive Assembly: As children assemble different components, they strengthen their problem-solving abilities, logical thinking, and spatial awareness.- Experiential Learning: The act of assembling and transforming the configurations gives children opportunities for hands-on learning.- Motor Coordination and Focus: Working with various parts improves fine motor skills and enhances concentration.- For Cultural Learning:- Inspired by Cultural Symbols: The name 3 Khan is derived from the epic Shahnameh, subtly introducing children to its cultural and literary themes.- Storytelling During Play: Parents or educators can narrate the stories illustrated on the product, helping children engage with their cultural heritage in a fun and meaningful way.- Intergenerational Interaction: The assembly process and use of the product foster opportunities for shared experiences between parents and children, creating lasting memories and bonding moments.In summary, 3 Khan is more than just a children's product—it's a thoughtfully crafted tool that blends education, creativity, and cultural identity to support a child's overall development.