Tojo ‘Hochstapler’ shelving system. This ‘Hochstapler’ (high-stacker) by Dirk Frömchen for Tojo Möbel certainly lives up to its rather bold name, as this shelving unit is, in its ingeniously simple design, a (nearly) infinitely expandable system for storing books, files and items worth displaying. The modules, which are available individually, can be combined as lowboards, sideboards or highboards – either open or closed – but can also be used as a room-spanning bookcase or a staircase-style shelving unit for a loft conversion. For vertical stacking, extension elements – two side panels with a single shelf – are primarily used. The top is formed by the rectangular base unit with a base and a smooth-edged top. The strikingly milled sides give the shelving unit a distinctive look, but their primary purpose is to ensure a stable connection between the individual modules stacked loosely on top of one another. The base of each element is secured in such a way that it prevents the element placed on top from sliding out to the side. Several shelving columns are connected using a separately available metal clip inserted into the side grip slots. Nevertheless, the German manufacturer recommends that, once the height reaches five modules, the unit should no longer be used as a freestanding room divider; stabilising wall mounting is required. Base unit. Unlike usual, this open module serves as the crowning finish to the shelving system, thus forming the ‘roof’ with a smooth top panel that provides additional storage space. Awards: Interior Innovation Award 2012 from IMM Cologne