One key aspect is that they don't start from a preconceived idea or grand design, but are improvised by senior artisans and designers. The petit h workshop gives life and meaning to the unique, hybrid objects whose aesthetics and function are faithful to Hermes' spirit of ingenuity and high-quality materials. Consequently, many creations are as surprising as they are fun.

The workshop in Beijing is designed by Chinese architect company CATS. Its two designers unveil the new creations in a setting of reeds and terracotta. A shelf sheathed in leather and silk, adorned with porcelain and crystal. A bear wearing a leather coat and denim, also takes the form of a shelf, accompanied by two stools. The porcelain onion, cabbage and carrot also turn into bento boxes.