Developed in 1948 by Bernard Silver, a graduate student at the Drexel University of Technology, the humble barcode has become one of the most important inventions of our times. However, while most of us think of it as a bunch of lines, artists and designers, seem to think otherwise. Below are some cool creations inspired by these nondescript row of straight lines.

Barcode Chandelier

This amazing looking chandelier, made from transparent acrylic material, with the black barcode lines lasered on it, was manufactured by Sydney -based architecture and design firm Mobilet. It was so popular, that it sold out immediately!

Barcode Sofa

How about a sofa to go with that chandelier? Imaginatively named Barcode, the sofa designed by Jason Muscat of Demuzz Designs, is built from plywood. Each bar is then covered with black foam to make this rather austere-looking piece of furniture, a tiny bit comfortable.

Barcode Building

The Shtrih Kod: Barcode building is one of the most iconic addresses in St. Petersburg, Russia. Located in a residential area near the bank of the Neva River, the bright red building stands out among the drab gray housing blocks that surround it and, is home to a number of retail shops of course!

The Futuristic Barcode Watch

This black watch that looks like it belongs to the 22nd Century, also displays the time in a futuristic manner. The lights in the first two columns depict the hour, while the next two, use each lights to depict 10 minutes and 1 minute respectively. Made by Japanese Company, Tokyo Flash, the watch will set you back a mere $178 USD.

Barcode Hangers

Designer Lina Meier, has come up a whole collection of barcode inspired everyday items that she calls BARDECO - They include unique barcode hangers, lamps shades and bookshelves.

Barcode Purse

Made by Ecoist from recycled candy wrappers, soda bottles and food containers, the purse comes in three sizes. And if that isn't 'green' enough for you, the company will plant a tree for every purse that is sold.

Creative Barcodes

Do the barcodes have to be this boring? Not if you live in Japan . Design Barcode Inc. has redesigned the boring strips so that they resemble anything from aprons to skyscrapers to dogs - And yes they are stuck to actual items and do work!

sources: eikongraphia.com, geekblue.net. l-mdesign.co.uk, oddee.com