From fruit crate to design icon: Hay levels up the storage box scene
4.11.2025
Translation: Elicia Payne
Pictures: Pia Seidel
Hay’s reinterpreted its popular storage box «Colour Crate», so of course I had to try it out ASAP.
Hay’s Colour Crate has long since become a design icon. Inspired by classic, rectangular fruit crates from supermarkets and warehouses, the Danish brand reworked the concept years ago. Instead of bright colours, they focus on soft pastel shades that fit perfectly into modern living spaces.
With the Colour Crate Cube series, Hay’s introducing a new square shape that promises even more flexibility. Of course I had to test them. As a fan of stylish storage solutions, I put the boxes in my study and living room for five weeks to store everything from craft materials to desk clutter. My goal was to find out how versatile they are and if they really are suitable for everyday use.
Size, colour and folding mechanism
I tested the large version (29.5 × 29.5 × 29.5 cm) and opted for three shades: Light yellow, Powder and Bordeaux red. I wanted muted tones to bring warmth and style to the room.
For those who prefer smaller boxes, there’s also a flatter version, measuring 29.5 × 29.5 × 15 cm. The material (recycled plastic), the choice of colours and the typical grid-like design are the same across all sizes. Every version also has two spaces where you can insert a label.
When I assembled the boxes, I had to make sure that the sides clicked into place properly. It took a bit of pressure, but then they were super secure from then on.
First impression: far from fruit crates
It’s clear Hay can turn a simple folding box into an interior eye-catcher. When assembled, I really like both the colour palette and the shape. Perhaps because the square shape makes it even less reminiscent of fruit crates. The other possible reason is that, of all geometric shapes, a cube is probably the most visually calming thanks to its symmetry. Even more so when it’s complemented by the matching lid.
Wheels and lids for endless possibilities
You can also get wheels for the Cubes. Installing them is super easy; simply attach it to the bottom box and you’ll add a little height to your crate. Not only does this open the space visually, the Cubes become even more practical. Now they cruise across my parquet floor and even on the carpet when I give them a little more momentum.
An alternative to my classic desk storage?
Whether as a book box, toy storage or side table, the square frame can do almost anything. The emphasis being on almost. I initially thought it’d be perfect for my desk. However, I need something with drawers that can be pulled out easily – especially for pens, notes or little things. Otherwise I have to open the lid and rummage around every time I want to get to the bottom.
The Hay container is particularly suitable for me to store things that I don’t need every day. It’s also a good solution for creative corners where everything should be within reach but not constantly in the way. That’s why I prefer to use it for craft materials, paper or tools. I can quickly move it to my table when I need it, and just as quickly out of the way again because it fits behind doors or in alcoves.
The wheels make the whole thing even more versatile: they can be fitted in seconds and removed just as easily if you want to attach them to another folding box or leave them off completely. Then you can also pop them on a shelf or in the cupboard.
In a nutshell
Hay does it better
After a few weeks, I’m impressed. The Colour Crate Cube offers tons of storage space, is sturdy and makes organisation stylish. You can stack the folding box, equip it with lids and wheels and simply fold it flat when not in use. The price is higher than for simple folding boxes, but the investment is worth it in my opinion. Once collapsed, the boxes are more robust than cheap versions.
If you’re looking for a practical, adaptable storage system that also looks good, this piece is just the thing. I’m already thinking about the next colour I want to move in with me.
Pro
- Looks chic and blends harmoniously into living spaces
- Versatile (book box, toy storage, side table, you name it)
- Lid and wheels provide more options
- Sturdy and spacious
- Stackable and foldable
Contra
- More expensive compared to simple folding boxes
Header image: Pia Seidel
Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
These articles might also interest you
20 comments
later