Modular Vintage Storage: A Buyer’s Guide

Royal System - Paul Cadovius - 1948

Poul Cadovius (1911–2011) was coveted a Danish designer and manufacturer from the early 20th century. Although originally trained as a saddler and upholsterer, his interest in industrial design led to the establishment of manufacturing company Royal Systems in 1945. What followed was the revolutionary idea of designing a floating, modular shelving system – maximising floor space and ending a previous conformity in shelving which had been heavy, space-stealing traditional furniture, dominated rooms and occupied too much floor space.

The Royal system was light, elegant and moved shelving off the floor onto the walls, leaving more space within rooms. The system consisted of wood wall-mounted rails (in oak, black oak or walnut), shelves with hangers which could be brass or stainless steel and various different components like cabinets, drawers and desks, all which could be customised to meet individual requirements but also in different combinations. In fact, due to the pieces dynamic flexibility in design, the original system had 16 million combination possibilities. These could be a workspace, wall display showcasing precious objects, art and plants, components with drop down lids could transform into beautiful drinks cabinets.