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Object Timeline

  • We acquired this object.

1960

  • Work on this object began.

2017

2018

2025

  • You found it!

Universal Shelving System, 606

This is a Universal Shelving System. It was designed by Dieter Rams and manufactured by Vitsoe. It is dated 1960. Its medium is extruded aluminum, powder-coated steel.

Designed for customization as well as longevity, Rams’s 606 Universal Shelving System operates with a simple, lightweight system of tracks and shelves that can accommodate the needs of any space and consumer. In addition to basic shelving, Rams designed a whole range of compatible and coordinating elements including cabinets with sliding doors, desk and table modules, and LP racks and holders for Braun stereo system components. By 1980 the Vitsœ catalogue listed more than 150 different configurations for the system.

This object was donated by Vitsoe. It is credited Courtesy of Vitsoe.

Our curators have highlighted 1 object that are related to this one.

  • ESU 400 Storage Unit
  • moulded birch plywood, lacquered masonite and wood, zinc-plated steel,....
  • Museum purchase from General Acquisitions Endowment Fund.
  • 2013-58-1-a/d

Its dimensions are

H x W x D: 55.9 × 67.3 × 24.8 cm (22 in. × 26 1/2 in. × 9 3/4 in.)

This object was previously on display as a part of the exhibition Bob Greenberg Selects.

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If you would like to cite this object in a Wikipedia article please use the following template:

<ref name=CH>{{cite web |url=https://www-4.collection.cooperhewitt.org/objects/1158794715/ |title=Universal Shelving System, 606 |author=Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum |accessdate=10 March 2025 |publisher=Smithsonian Institution}}</ref>