HUG BOAT — Therapeutic Tissue Box

HUG BOAT — A tiny harbor for tiny storms

Object that holds what falls from the soul.

• ABOUT

HUG BOAT is a tissue box designed as a comforting object for emotional spaces. It transforms a hidden, disposable item into a visible symbol of care. Inspired by children’s perception of safety, the boat shape suggests that every tear has a destination — a place to land.

• CONCEPT & AESTHETICS

The design uses soft pastel colors and friendly illustration to create emotional ease in environments such as pediatric clinics, therapy rooms, schools, and waiting areas.

The tissue paper forms the boat sail, becoming the central emotional gesture of the object. A small bear and a lighthouse reference protection, guidance, and calm navigation through feelings.

• DESIGN SOLUTION

Instead of treating packaging as waste, HUG BOAT separates a permanent outer shell from the inner disposable box. The outer boat remains as a long-lasting design object, while the inner pack can be replaced with any standard-sized tissue box.

This turns packaging into an interior item rather than trash.

• FUNCTIONALITY

HUG BOAT is fully compatible with common tissue sizes and is designed for easy refill insertion. It remains stable on the table due to an extended base and reinforced edges. It is playful, but never impractical — its function is as visible as its story.

• MATERIALS

Outer Boat — durable FSC certified cardboard or recyclable child-safe plastic, finished with matte eco inks. Inner Box — refill pack with minimal cloud motif (standard dimensions).

All surfaces are smooth to the touch, non-toxic, and resistant to repeated handling in public spaces.

• SAFETY DESIGN

No detachable small parts, no sharp edges, child-safe printing, and a low center of gravity to prevent tipping. Illustrations and colors were selected to reduce anxiety and encourage emotional openness in children.

“Tissues for tiny storms.”

Conceived & Designed at Grain of Design
by Martina Kunstovná