Platinum Pet Care, Toys, Supplies and Products for Animals Design · 2020
Catzz Cat Bed
- A' Design Award 2020 Platinum Winner in Pet Care, Toys, Supplies and Products for Animals Design
- Awarded April 15, 2020
- CLIENT: Mirko Vujicic
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 1,939,112
- Verification code 4978DC94D8 · Verify this award
About Catzz Cat Bed
When designing Catzz cat bed, the inspiration was drawn from needs of cats and owners alike, and need to unite function, simplicity and beauty. While observing cats, their unique geometrical features inspired the clean and recognizable form. Some characteristic behavioral patterns (e.g. ear movement) became incorporated into cat's user experience. Also, bearing owners in mind, the aim was to create a piece of furniture they could customize and proudly display. Moreover, it was important to ensure easy maintenance. All of which the sleek, geometrical design and modular structure enable.
Mirko Vujicic's Catzz Cat Bed exemplifies the contemporary convergence of industrial design innovation with the expanding cultural recognition of companion animals as integral members of the domestic sphere. Emerging from traditions of Scandinavian design philosophy that prioritize clean geometric forms, honest materiality, and the elevation of everyday objects into aesthetic experiences, this work transforms the conventional notion of pet furniture into sculptural presence worthy of design-conscious interiors. The geometric complexity of the icosahedral form demonstrates sophisticated understanding of three-dimensional construction, each triangular felt panel precisely engineered to create structural integrity while maintaining the softness and warmth essential to feline comfort. The designer's material selection reveals thoughtful consideration of both aesthetic and functional requirements, as the heathered charcoal felt provides visual sophistication alongside acoustic dampening, thermal insulation, and the tactile appeal that invites feline habitation. Contrasting burgundy stitching introduces subtle chromatic variation while celebrating rather than concealing the joinery that enables the complex form, an approach resonant with Arts and Crafts movement principles of honest construction. The anthropomorphic suggestion of the uppermost triangular projections as abstracted cat ears creates visual wit that bridges the gap between object and occupant, inviting recognition of the form's purpose while maintaining sculptural ambiguity. This design participates in broader contemporary discourse surrounding the humanization of pet care and the integration of animal-oriented products into curated interior environments. The work may invite viewers to contemplate the evolving relationship between humans and companion animals, and the role of thoughtful design in honoring these bonds through objects that serve both practical function and aesthetic aspiration within the shared domestic landscape.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Catzz cat bed relies on clean and contemporary design, which is the result of careful thinking and research in order to make a perfect combination of functionality, content and form. The modularity of the product enables personalization, reconfiguration, easy maintenance and conveniently flat packaging.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- Product dimensions:
Width: 570 mm
Depth: 580 mm
Height: 610 mm
Triangular module (equilateral triangle) specifications:
Edge dimension: 288 mm
Thickness: 11 mm - Tags
- cat bed, pet furniture, pet supplies, cat toys
- Production Technology
- Triangular modules are made from felt pieces and plastic plates, all cut by a laser. Two felt pieces are glued to a plastic plate in the middle, and the hems of felt pieces are sewn. Each module corner has a snap fastener stud attached. Assembly connectors, made from metal by cutting and bending, have snap fastener sockets attached. Modules used for "ears" do not have a plastic plate, but only two pieces of felt sewn together, and have fabric connectors because the "ears" need flexibility.
- Design Challenge
- After the research, a clear need for a cat bed that assembles and disassembles easily, but is sturdy at the same time, arose. The challenge was not to use any screws and to avoid using tools. I needed something simple. Therefore, I opted for snap fasteners to connect the triangular modules reliably and plastic plates to strengthen them within, making modules thin and sturdy. As a result, those modules can fit into a flat packaging which is simple to transport.
- Project Duration
- The idea was born in Belgrade, in the beginning of 2019. It was followed by numerous sketches and mock-up models, and searches for different kinds of materials. In September 2019, after having finalized the design, I made the prototype. The prototype enabled an insight into the product's minor flaws, which were dealt with. Afterwards, technical specifications and production technology were defined in January 2020.
- Operation Flow
- Catzz cat bed can be easily disassembled if needed to be washed, transported or reconfigured. It comes in different colors so that it can match the cat color or complement the space. Also, it can be transformed in three variants to fit the cat personality and needs (e.g. more or less privacy or warmth). It comes with a cat toy tied to Catzz cat bed ear by an elastic string, which makes the ear move when the cat plays with the toy, and if there is more than one cat, they can join the play.
- Research
- The purpose of the research was to gain insight into cat owners' needs and wishes regarding cat furniture and toys. First, a survey was conducted in March, 2019. The total of 250 participants completed the survey anonymously. The results showed that most participants valued these characteristics most (in decreasing order): ease of cleaning, ability to personalize it, contemporary design, and reasonable price. Secondly, using prototypes, the functionality and ergonomics were tested.
- Inspiration
- I was inspired by my own cat in terms of both form and function. Distinct geometry in my cat facial features guided the form of design, whereas her movement and behavior inspired the interactive aspect. The material was chosen to fit the cat needs for a warm and snugly environment, which felt provides. Knowing that cats are always on the lookout for the perfect hiding and resting spot and that their preferences vary, it was important for me to provide the possibility for adaptation.