In may part of the world, the ground is covered in snow, but I look forward to Spring when I can picnic in the park. To debut at the IMM Cologne design fair on January 18, Vial’s new Fido folding mat is sure to capture the interest of many urbanites eager for lightweight portable seating they can enjoy in public or in their privacy of their own gardens.

When folded, the Fido is easy to transport. Once opened, it becomes a multifunctional piece: either a flat blanket or, by folding back and fastening together two corners of one side, an upright triangle serves as a backrest.

Deigned by Patrick Frey (also the designer of the Nook stool) the mat is filled with polyethylene foam and covered in Cordura, a durable outdoor fabric that renders the mat resistant to tears, scuffs and abrasions. It even has a pocket for stashing your favorite magazine or e-reader. Picnic anyone?