# Cargo Ship-Inspired Mantles The Flow I Shelf by Le Mouton Noir & Co. is Subtly Nautical By Meghan Young | Published 2012-03-27 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flow-i-shelf References: [bookofjoe](http://www.bookofjoe.com/2012/03/flow-i-wall-mounted-shelf.html) & [lemoutonnoirandco](http://www.lemoutonnoirandco.com/default.html) The Flow I shelf is inspired by a cargo ship. Although it has an overall [minimalist design](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/balolo-setup-cockpit), it has been sculpted in such a way as to give it a sea-worthy appeal. It has a subtly rounded bottom and a flat top with a long notch. Nevertheless, it is only when it has objects stored on it that it looks like a proper cargo ship. Created by le mouton noir & co., a design studio based in New York City, the Flow I shelf would make a great addition to any home. Simple and subtle, it would bring a touch of nautical whimsy to modern living spaces. The Flow I shelf is made out of [wood](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/loop-furnitures). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.4/10 - Popularity: 22% | Activity: 12% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Nautical-inspired Furniture:** There is an opportunity for designers to create furniture pieces inspired by sea-faring vessels. - **Minimalist Design with Whimsical Accents:** Business professionals can consider creating products that are simple in design but feature subtle details that add a touch of character. - **Function Meets Aesthetic:** There is a growing trend in creating practical items that also serve as unique decorative elements. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Furniture Manufacturing:** Furniture makers can explore incorporating subtle nautical designs into their product lines for a unique twist on minimalist decor. - **Home Decor Retail:** Home decor retailers can offer customers a range of products that combine functionality with a touch of whimsy. - **Product Design:** Product designers can take inspiration from unexpected sources, like cargo ships, to create innovative and visually appealing products. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [L-Shaped Stacked Shelving](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/loft-shelf.md) - [Versatile Modern Shelves](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/utility-shelf.md) - [Dynamic Storage-Display Shelves](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shelf-life.md) - [Abstract Jigsaw-Like Shelving](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spectator-shelf.md) - [Japanese Woodwork-Inspired Shelving Units](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/altitude-shelving.md) - [Sculptural Wall Desks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sculptural-wall-desk.md) - [Curvaceous Shelf-Paired Mirrors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wave-mirror.md) - [Handle-Equipped Planter Shelves](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minimalist-plant-shelf.md) - [Customizable Style-Conscious Shelving](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ledoux-modular-shelf-system.md)