Torafu Architects of Tokyo, Japan have designed a paper container that can be stretched into a vase, plate or bowl.

Called Air Vase, the product comes as a flat disc with perforations that allow the user to pull up each side into the preferred shape.

The paper is a different colour on each side so the vases appear to change colour when viewed from various angles.

Watch a movie about the project here.

More about Torafu Architects on Dezeen:

Pappa TARAHUMARA Punk Don Quixote
Nissan Y150 Dream Front pavilion (June 2009)
House in Kohoku (September 2008)
Kiriko Bottles (November 2007)
Nike Air Force 1 Store (November 2007)
Boolean interior (November 2007)
House in Yokohama (November 2007)

Photographs are by  Satomi Tomita.

Here is some more information from the designers:

Air vase

This is a paper bowl that enfolds air. You can freely change its shape by molding it into a dish, a small bowl or a vase according to the intended usage.

The thin and lightweight paper gives strength and resistance to the bowl and allows it to be folded compactly when not in use.

This intriguing bowl will catch your eye as the colors on each side of the paper create a different impression every time you look at it.

Caution: Refrain from pulling too hard on paper to avoid deformation and/or tearing. Keep away from water, dampness or moisture.

Instructions: Holding the center in place with one hand, gradually lift rim all around.

Stretch wall further while holding vessel from the bottom to make a bowl or adjust to desired shape.

Principal use: Paper product
Manufacture: Kami no Kousakujo
Design Period: 2009.10-2009.12
Construction Period: 2009.12-2010.01

Duration: 2010.01.29-2010.02.21
Designed by  Torafu Architects
Manufactured by Kami No Kousakujo

Dimensions - Package Size: 200 x 200mm / Bowl Diameter: 193mm
Materials - Core: IllumiColor / Package: PP / Cardboard: HSK Ivory
Color: Yellow, Blue