Inna Alesina is a designer who takes sustainability and functionality into account when designing her products. Graduating with a degree from Parsons School of Design in New York, her mission is "to improve people's conditions through good design." A Ukraine native and Baltimore suburb resident, Alesina transforms ordinary items that are often discarded into practical household objects...

Laser-cut paperboard mailing tubes become colorful wall shelves; Recycled egg cartons get new life as a rocking stool or ottoman. The price for the shelf ranges from $30 to $42. The stool/ottoman's are $95 to $225. To purchase or view more of her products, visit Alesina Design.

(Images: Baker Artist Awards)