It’s no secret that camping requires a certain amount of know-how. For instance, knowing how to get fires going, knowing how to pitch a tent and conserve water, how to cook and make your way through a forest unscathed are skills that will help trips to the outdoors feel less stressful and a lot more comfortable. With so many people camping nowadays, designers at PDF Haus have conceptualized a minimal camp grill called Shelf, a portable gas grill with folding shelves and a table.
Developed in the design language of DHL, PDF Haus aimed to give Shelf a simple box silhouette with a freewheeling attitude, taking inspiration from the color scheme, materials and finishes often chosen by DHL for their vehicles and brand aesthetic. The grill even comes with DHL decals and tags that can be adhered to the metallic grill’s front case that turns into its table extension. While most gas stoves come with a separate carrying case, Shelf’s entire grill has been turned into one that can be consolidated and carried away. Shaped and carried like a slim briefcase, two metal clasps open and slide out to reveal the Shelf’s grill and supplementary table space. Just beneath the grill, Shelf includes two retractable shelves that create more space for whoever’s cooking to place their spices, utensils, or tools. Blooming from Shelf’s underside like an awning, the shelves, and the sliding tables nearly double Shelf’s overall area.
Comprising a total thickness of 50mm when laid flat, Shelf’s slim frame allows it to slip easily onto any camp packing list. Reaching 278mm in height and 400mm in width, the compact build of Shelf’s entire grill is only given more weight once propane gas containers are inserted into its underside to activate the grill and get to cooking. Battery operated, Shelf features a battery inlet underneath as well that gives power to the grill’s automatic ignition system.
Designer: Dahae Lee x PDF Haus
Shelf’s simple box frame is reminiscent of DHL’s stripped-down brand aesthetic.
The grill’s shelf awnings remain hidden, folded into Shelf’s underbelly.
Metal clasps unlock to allow Shelf’s table extension to slide and provide further storage options.
A rubber handle allows users to carry Shelf like a slim briefcase.
The grill features an intuitive, recognizable control panel that allows users to adjust temperature and flame settings.
Shelf also comes equipped with space for a detachable drip pan, battery inlet, and a fuel nozzle.
Conceptualized in an array of different colors, Shelf is the perfect camping companion.
Decals and extra tags from DHL can be attached to Shelf’s metallic surface.