At Milan Design Week, we got to witness a range of intriguing flat-pack furniture by researchers from the Swiss design school ÉCAL. The interesting collection needs to be immersed in water to reach its final finished form. Dubbed Under Pressure Solutions or UPS, the furniture is crafted from thin and compressed sheets of cellulose sponge, which enables the products to be packed into flat parcels. In fact, some of the objects are compact enough to be pushed through a letterbox, facilitating more efficient shipping.
Once you receive the products you need to soak them in the bath or shower, which allows them to blow up to around 10 times their original size in a few seconds. You then wrung out the sponge, and leave it to dry, hardening it, and forming a sturdy, durable, and self-supporting form of furniture that can support the weight of a person. The furniture collection is way better than conventional plastic foam when it comes to durability.
“Cellulose is a part of nature so, like a tree, it can be flexible and strong at the same time,” said ÉCAL researcher and industrial designer Christophe Guberan. The sponge is extracted from wood offcuts, and it is equipped with strength due to the same cellulose fibers that is utilized by a tree to reinforce its trunk and branches.
To create the sponge, the cellulose was derived from woodcuts. The cellulose was then chemically dissolved and regenerated to create sheets utilizing the same process that produces viscose and other cellulose textiles. Glauber’s salt is then added into those concoction, providing the sponge with its pores, and strengthening the cellulose’s ability to absorb water. This material is sold as standardized sheets that are then compressed and dehydrated to support smooth and easy transportation.
By adding small amounts of water, the various furniture pieces can become flexible once again, and they can be repaired by smoothing out any dents. And once the lifecycle of the furniture has been completed, it can be recycled or composted in the backyard.
Most of our modern infrastructure and architecture is bad on concrete, and the production of cement used in concrete is one of the biggest causes of worldwide carbon dioxide emissions. This constitutes a serious issue that must be addressed, especially with the current state of our Planet Earth. In this effort, Nendo displays a specimen of a greener and cleaner way to construct and build with its Block-Wall House. The Block-Wall House is partially built using a new concrete that captures carbon dioxide instead of emitting it!
Tucked away in Japan’s Nagano Prefecture, the Block-Wall House is located next to a rural road. The house features a lot of glazing, to offer privacy against pedestrians and passing vehicles. The home is equipped with an angled screen which lets residents look out but makes it quite difficult for a passerby to glance inside. This screen is made using 2000 blocks which have been arranged in parallel rows to form five walls, with a length of 360 feet. This screen is made from the aforementioned sustainable and novel concrete!
This newly developed concrete is made by the Kajima Corporation in collaboration with the Chugoku Electric Power Co, Denka, and Landes Co. The concrete is named CO2-SUICOM, and for its production, a special cement mixture is placed in a curing chamber, and carbon dioxide is pumped into the chamber for absorption. This absorbed CO2 gets stuck inside the concrete and is not released. It is as strong as regular concrete!
“Generally, concrete hardens through a chemical reaction between cement and water,” explains Kajima Corporation. “But with CO2-SUICOM, over half the cement is replaced with a material we call γ-C2S. Instead of reacting with water, γ-C2S reacts with the CO2 in the air to harden. After mixing the materials needed to create CO2-SUICOM, the concrete can be placed in a location with high CO2 levels so it can capture the CO2 and harden, trapping the gas inside. For example, a thermal power plant or other facility that produces carbon-heavy exhaust gases can redirect the gases into a carbon sequestration chamber, where concrete products made with CO2-SUICOM can be placed to capture the CO2 in the gases.”
Currently, the price of producing CO2-SIUCOM concrete is about three times higher than usual concrete in Japan. Hence, work is being done to bring down the price, and Kajima Corporation believes that the concrete will become more economical in the future.
Sustainable furniture is taking the design industry by storm, they’re a step towards making our homes and our daily lives more eco-friendly and sustainable. They’re an attempt to cast aside toxic materials, and instead, add furniture designs to our home that won’t rot away on Earth for years once we’re done with them. And one such intriguing and thoughtfully designed sustainable furniture design I recently came across is the Kelp Chair by Interesting Times Gang.
Designed by the Swedish design studio Interesting Times Gang, the Kelp Chair has a new and improved version. The new 3D-printed version of the Kelp chair is built from seaweed instead of recycled plastic! The original Kelp chair was designed in 2022 by Interesting Times Gang and it was made using recycled fishing nets and wood pulp. The chair was named because of the unique lines of its form, which were heavily inspired by ocean vegetation.
Since the chair was originally released, the studio wanted to recreate a new version made with its namesake algae! By using kelp, they were using an organism that has significant value in the steady conversion to bio-based materials. “Macroalgae play a vital role in capturing carbon and produce at least 50 percent of Earth’s oxygen,” said Interesting Times Gang. “Scaling up the cultivation and utilization of kelp has a pivotal role when it comes to mitigating the effects of climate change.”
The Kelp Chair is constructed from a kind of kelp called the Nordic sugar kelp. The Nordic sugar kelp is a brown seaweed that grows in the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans. This seaweed is then converted into a bioplastic, and then 3D printed. The Sugar Kelp cair also includes a cushion which is made from a material from an identical source. The unique upholstery is crafted from Keel Labs’ seaweed-based Kelsun fiber, while the foam filler is made from a kelp biofoam which is produced by the Norwegian start-up Agoprene. This innovative chair is supposed to be biodegradable till the end of its life cycle.
Something we often tend to do is ignore the importance of a great office chair. When in reality we really shouldn’t. We spend the majority of our day sitting on chairs, whether we’re working in our home office or a corporate one. Hence, this piece of furniture needs to be not only comfortable but ergonomic, and aesthetic as well. And we’ve curated a collection of chair designs that meet all these criteria! From a task chair that is made using 70% recycled materials to a fortune cookie-inspired wooden work pod – these innovative chair designs are not only a boon to your back, and help you maintain a healthy posture, but are also super comfy to sink into, and will perfectly match the interiors of your modern office. Enjoy.
1. Coffin Chair
This intriguing-looking office chair is shaped like a coffin, and it perfectly encapsulates the emotions you may feel regarding your dead-end corporate job. This innovative and unique chair is created for those who are fed up with their jobs, but cant really leave, and need to process their emotions in a healthy manner.
Why is it noteworthy?
The conceptual chair design perfectly encapsulates all the dreaded emotions employees usually experience throughout their workday. It captures the sense of boredom, and mundaneness one experiences as they sit through a pointless meeting that could have very easily been an email.
What we like
The chair is inspired by Rene Magritte’s painting titled The Balcony (1950)
It perfectly represents the emotions of having a dead-end job
What we dislike
There’s no cozy cushioning to get comfy in, it could be uncomfortable to sit on for long periods of time
2. Typo Chair
Called the Typo Chair, this minimal yet powerful office chair by AMDL Circle for the furniture brand Mara deserves a spot in your office. What sets this rather ordinary-looking chair apart is its playfully bent form, which serves as a unique and uncommon element.
Why is it noteworthy?
The ergonomic office chair features a light timber base and backrest, and it has a gentle curve in its form. This shape sets the chair apart from typical chair designs, and it functions as the ‘focal point’ of the entire design.
What we like
The colored metal structure contrasts the subtle wood creating a vibrant silhouette
Features an intentional detail that adds personality to an otherwise basic chair
What we dislike
There seems to be no option for customization
3. Vitra ACX
The Vitra ACX is designed as a collaboration between Vitra and Antonio Citterio. It is an excellent fit for your corporate or home office, and it is designed to have a “long service life with the smallest possible carbon footprint”.
Why is it noteworthy?
This chair is deemed to be ACX’s most sustainable task chair available, and it has a 100% recyclable construction, which is truly commendable. The chair is made using a limited number of components, and this ensures that maintenance is quite easy and efficient.
What we like
Made up of 100% recyclable materials
Features a mechanism that automatically adjusts to different kinds of users
What we dislike
Aesthetics are a bit dull and unassuming
4. Sphere Office Chair
Dubbed the Sphere office chair, this good-looking and well-designed chair by the Japanese furniture brand Okamura is built using recycled fishing nets that were saved from the ocean. The unique chair features a “3D physical fit shell” with a kinematic structure that adapts to the contours of your body.
Why is it noteworthy?
Since the chair features a unique kinematic structure, it quite accurately adjusts to the user’s body, creating a comfy shell where users can sit for long periods of time, without feeling any kind of discomfort or fatigue.
What we like
Easily adapts to the contours of the user’s body, serving as a comfy space to sit in
What we dislike
The aesthetics of the chair are quite similar to other office chairs on the market
5. Catifa Carta
Meet the Catifa Carta – a beautiful minimalist sustainable chair that is made from dozens of sheets of paper. The chair isn’t literally made from paper, as that would be too soft, it is made from PaperShell – a unique material that transforms paper which comes from wood into a wood-like material.
Why is it noteworthy?
This excellent wood-like material provides rigidity, stability, and beauty. It utilizes wood-by products like chips and sawdust, and waste wood too like fallen branches in forests to form a new paper-like material that can replace wood, plastic, or fiber composites.
What we like
The natural imperfections of the PaperShell give each chair a unique characteristic
What we dislike
Not sure how effective the ergonomics of the chair are for sitting for longer durations of time
6. Liberty Ocean Chair
Designed by Humanscale, the Liberty Ocean Chair is as its name signifies built using one kilogram of abandoned fishing nets found in the ocean. This unique chair is quite a sustainable option since it utilizes recycled fishing nets. It aims to provide a solution to the issue of ocean plastic!
Why is it noteworthy?
The Liberty Ocean chair range claims to be “first task chairs made from recycled fishing nets”, and is a valiant effort on Humanscale’s behalf to tackle the evergrowing and consistent issue of ocean plastic.
What we like
Ergonomic and minimal form
First task chair to be crafted from recycled fishing nets
What we dislike
The aesthetics of the chair are quite similar to other office chairs on the market
7. NEWTRAL MagicH
Meet the NEWTRAL MagicH – this is an ergonomic and intelligent chair design that features an auto-following backrest, as well as an auto-following and adjusting headrest. This chair is a great fit for those who spend long hours in their office, and find it difficult to take breaks and move around.
Why is it noteworthy?
The spring-loaded components of the chair contract when you’re reclining or sitting, and they offer support to your back and neck if you lean forward. The chair offers ample support to your body, no matter which position you’re sitting in. This chair provides the ultimate working experience.
What we like
The chair offers support to your body and prevents any injuries
What we dislike
The armrests, while highly adjustable, are not removable
8. The 5° Chair
Dubbed the 5° Chair, this unique office chair can rotate at 36-degree angles. It can learn back and forth, and even tilt side to side! This chair was created by the Seoul-based design firm 250 Design, and it is an excellent and ergonomically designed chair for your home.
Why is it noteworthy?
The seat plate of the chair hugs your hips and provides support from the bottom. The chair even features added cushion for more comfort. The legs have been reinforced with angled wave springs allowing them to tilt in any direction, creating a chair that can easily adjust to your body’s movement.
What we like
The chair adjusts and works according to your body’s natural movement
The chair features stationery mobility
What we dislike
Doesnt include wheels, so the chair isn’t a portable design
9. Fortune Chair
Meet the Fortune Chair! It is a unique chair which is an interesting mix between a chair, pod, and a bean bag. The chair also looks like a fortune cookie, which explains its unique but pretty adorable name. The chair is inspired by a fortune cookie!
Why is it noteworthy?
Just like you crack a fortune cookie, the Fortune Chair captures the same experience and sentiment of cracking open a fortune cookie. The experience may be old-school, but it is still a fun and amusing thing to come across. The designers wanted to represent those same sentiments in this chair!
What we like
Features a fortune cookie-inspired wooden outer wall, which serves as a covering frame that surrounds the user
Functions as a comfy and cozy private space
What we dislike
The chair has a unique aesthetic that may not complement the aesthetic of modern contemporary offices
10. uuma
Dubbed uuma, this portable chair and table combo is truly a unique one! It is made from fiberglass, and it offers a little unit with some impressive portability and durability. The chair functions as a customizable furniture unit, which is made up of 4 modular parts.
Why is it noteworthy?
uuma functions as a comfortable seat that can be raised or lowered on demand, and you can clip it to open to unveil a height-adjustable table, which is quite efficient to use as well. uuma lets you work wherever you like and whenever you like.
What we like
uuma can be utilized in multiple settings both outdoors and indoors
Has a highly portable and durable design
What we dislike
The design may not be very ergonomic or comfortable to work on for long hours
This stunning structure is called the Marche Vision Market, and it is located in Taki town, Mie prefecture, Japan. Designed by Tomoya Akasaka, this exquisite market is unlike the typical, crowded, chaotic, and often haphazardly designed markets you may have come across. The key elements of the market are the rather expansive and impressive roofs which were designed after drawing inspiration from the water cycle, since rain and sunshine are essentials for the growth of crops. The unique roofs represent the absorption of energy via the curved surface extending over the ground. The repetitive torii gates at the Akone Yashiro Shine, located within the Ise Grand Shrine were sources of inspiration for the structures supporting the roof. The torii gates represent the prayers for abundant harvest, plentiful fishing yields, and successful businesses, forming a beautiful connection and symbolism, since the market promotes and sells local produce.
Designer: Tomoya Akasaka
The Marche Vision isn’t simply a market, it focuses on and attempts to foster regional collaboration through food. It takes the age-old and successful concept of the farmers’ market and elevates it by promoting dining events, to stimulate and support regional innovation and growth. The impressive roof is meant to represent the serene connection between heaven and earth, and it shelters a space that functions as an engaging landscape, where fresh ingredients and produce are encouraged, and business is conducted at a dynamic and productive pace.
The roofs shelter an open-air space, where visitors are allowed to connect with the outdoors, nature, and changing seasons, something which is not often seen in modern retail and shopping centers. This thoughtful touch reduces energy consumption, in turn addressing and offering a unique solution to environmental issues. The eaves form a surface for raindrops to descend regularly, in turn creating a ‘rain curtain’. The side facing the expressway has been integrated with local wooden louvers, adding a touch of warmth, minimalism, and harmony to the marketplace. These simple touches not only protect the region’s natural beauty but also encourage sustainable preservation.
The Marche Vision is designed to offer a lavish lineup of fresh food. It is a convenient and easy-to-access market for local growers, providing an interactive and expansive space for the promotion and sale of locally-grown produce. Fresh vegetables, delicacies from the land and sea, and even seasonal seafood such as Ise spiny lobster and abalone straight from Ise-Shima are available at the Marche Vision market.
I love a well-designed and functional lighting design with some aesthetic value. But besides these three holy grails, it also helps if the light is portable, and can be carried around with you wherever you go. Besides that, a well-designed lighting fixture should not only have the ability to illuminate any living space but also add that extra oomph factor! I mean, of course, we need them to see in the dark, but as highly functional as they should be, a lighting fixture also needs to be aesthetically pleasing, adding an attractive and visually soothing element to any space it is placed in. And an excellent lighting design that we feel ticks all the checkboxes is the Grasp Portable Lamp by Thomas Albertsen for Frandsen.
Designed for the TV show Denmark’s Next Classic, the Grasp portable lamp by Danish brand Frandsen features an innovative and unique rechargeable bulb. After it debuted on the reality TV competition, where it was one of the best lighting designs, Frandsen picked up the lighting piece.
Frandsen was impressed by the ‘exceptional potential’ of the design, and hence decided to pick it up. The lamp features a refined metal form that comprises two cones – one for the base, and one for the lampshade. The two cones are connected via a thin and curving road that also makes up the body and the handle of the lamp. The portable lamp has a clean and minimalist visual appeal, while also serving as a functional and highly practical design with a water resistance rating, which makes it a great fit for both the indoors and the outdoors. It also features a base that sits well on both smooth and not-so-smooth surfaces.
“I wanted to make a portable lamp capable of illuminating a table where people gather, enveloping the surroundings in a warm, intimate ambiance, casting a magical aura in the otherwise dark spaces,” said Albertsen.
The lamp’s bulb which is called the Frandsen One functions as a source of light and power unit for the lighting design. So you don’t need to recharge the whole lamp, you can simply remove the bulb, and replace it with a fully charged spare bulb.
If you’re someone who needs a break from the hectic and fast pace of life and needs to indulge in some much-needed me time, then you’re well aware that you need an assortment of accessories to help you achieve this feat. Pampering yourself, and allowing yourself to relax and unwind isn’t a task we can accomplish simply by ourselves. And this is where grooming products, self-care items, and little meditative designs come to the rescue! All you need is an array of thoughtful and well-designed products to give you some amazing me-time, enabling you to truly relax after a long hard day at work. From a zen-like Japanese lantern candle to a battery-free aroma diffuser – we’ve curated a collection of designs that are all you need to treat yourself and take better care of yourself.
1. Rotating Nail Clipper
Called the Rotating Nail Clipper, this unique and one-of-a-kind product protects your wrist from twisting and getting hurt if you ever sit down to trim your nails. It helps you cut your nails efficiently, and you don’t need to unnecessarily twist or bend your wrist to achieve the perfect angle.
This unique nail clipper features a rather practical design that protects you from having to unnecessarily bend your twist while cutting your nails. It is an ergonomic tool made from high-carbon stainless steel and anodized aluminum alloy and has a rather minimalist and clean design ethos.
What we like
The sleek and clean design is quite easy to use
You have a variety of colors to pick from
What we dislike
The price tag is higher as compared to ordinary nail clippers
2. Japanese Lantern Candle
This pretty Japanese lantern resembles the traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, and it features an adorable pillar shape. This candle is a must-have for some self-care sessions when you simply wanna unwind, and let the stresses of the day fade away.
This quaint candle provides a contemporary take on an age-old iconic Japanese design. It offers a rather relaxing glow and has a minimal design ethos, which allows it to perfectly merge with any living space. The lantern is created by handcrafted artisans in Kurashiki, Japan.
What we like
Since the wax is non-melting, it produces a pretty clarity on the candle
What we dislike
You need to be careful while using it around children and pets, as it is a fire hazard
3. Legacy Precision Nail File
Designed by Yoshida Yasuri, the Legacy Precision Nail File is made in Japan using meticulous craftsmanship. The file is manufactured through an intricate three-stage sharpening process, making sure it is not dull, but nor does it have sharp edges like typical factory-made nail files.
The thick stainless steel plate is shaped in all directions six times, on both sides of the nail file, to ensure it is fine, durable, and smooth.
What we like
Guarantees lifelong durability
Come along with a handmade leather sheath
What we dislike
The sheath cap is quite easy to lose
4. Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser
Named the Battery-free aroma diffuser, this soothing little diffuser is what you need for some self-care. It lets you take in deep breaths while harnessing the power of a single candle by using simple physics and science.
This innovative diffuser doesn’t need batteries, nor does it need any external power sources! The diffuser uses the heat of a single candle to emit lovely aromatic scents. It is build using sustainable materials, and hence it advocates an eco-friendly ethos.
What we like
The diffuser is made from recyclable materials
Compatible with different kinds of essential oils
What we dislike
It doesn’t have electric controls, so it is difficult to adjust the intensity of the aroma
5. Japanese Cypress Vãs Wood Diffuser
Use the Japanese Cypress vãs wood diffuser to diffuse your favorite essential oils without any batteries, power, or electricity. You just need to add a few drops of oil, and the wood diffuser does its own natural magic!
Why is it noteworthy?
The design is inspired by the Latin word for a vessel which is vās, normally used to hold flowers. The vās itself is handcrafted from the Japanese hinoki cypress tree, giving you, not just a natural oil diffuser but also a decorative object to match your wooden theme if you have one.
What we like
The wood diffuser works as a natural oil diffuser, as well as an elegant home accent
What we dislike
You can only use 100% pure essential oils, as the diluted ones arent as aromatic and could damage the wood
6. Nike LED Mask
If you’re in the mood to indulge in some self-care and grooming, but don’t want to use the typical old masks from Sephora, then you may want to consider this Nike LED mask. This unique conceptual product lets people take care of their skin, without having to go to a facility to pamper their skin.
Why is it noteworthy?
The mask has a user-friendly CMF which allows users to get comfy with it, and handle it with ease. The mask features Nike’s sporty and fun image, which makes it quite relatable.
What we like
You don’t need to touch your face with your hands
Easy to use and accessible design
What we dislike
It’s a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product
7. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set
Called the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this little relaxation-inducing design is all you need to create the smell and lovely experience of having a memorable and enticing outdoor fire. It is the ideal design you need after a long day at work when you simply need to chill and unwind.
The mini hardwood is retrieved from branches that would otherwise have to be thrown away. They radiate a comforting smoky smell when it is burnt on the little stainless steel oven. Just add a few drops of essential oils from the Mt. Hakusan trees, and you have an amazing outdoor scent.
What we like
It can be used as a cooking or heating tool, by adding some wood
What we dislike
Requires small pieces of wood of specific sizes
8. LightVision Meditation Headset
Dubbed the LightVision meditation headset, this unique innovation by Layer Design is amped with LED lights that produce a layer of magic to the visual feed of the user. This creative headset converts natural videos into a sequence of biomorphic design, which is still visible to the closed eyes.
Why is it noteworthy?
The various patterns can be seen as a constantly-changing kaleidoscopes of sequences that activate the brain’s “frequency-following response”. This creates a distraction-free state of mind, helping you focus and meditate.
What we like
The headset has an ergonomic form which is comfy on the eyes and face
What we dislike
Meditating with the help of screens may result in tired eyes if you’re using them for long periods
9. Stress-Free Aroma Diffuser
Named the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser, this little diffuser lets you sit back and relax, while taking in a wonderful array of aromatic blends that are designed to soothe your frantic mind, and help you relax. If you’re in the mood for some self-care, or to spend some quality time with your partner, the diffuser is an amazing ambience setter.
The Stress-free Aroma Diffuser forms a gentle breeze, which lets the aroma softly and evenly disperse even if you’re sitting. It has a porcelain filter which soaks up all the oil to offer a long-lasting experience.
What we like
The polished base provides an intriguing contrast to the organic-looking porcelain disc, creating a sophisticated decoration piece
What we dislike
The diffuser seems quite fragile, so you need to handle it with care
10. Aroma Fragrance Pin
This little product is called the Aroma Fragrance Pin, and it is designed to be a tiny pin that maintains a pleasant aroma around you at all times, irrespective if you’re traveling or commuting around. It holds cotton with a lovely essential oil of your choice. It retains the strong fragrance around you.
The fragrance pin forms an individual fragrance bubble around you, and when the smell fades away, it can easily be topped up. It is a great product for those with sensitive noses who get bothered by the aerosol particles in usual perfumes.
What we like
Functions as a stylish button-style accessory with a lot of colors to pick from
What we dislike
You need to conduct some trial and error, to figure out how long the oil will last
Designed by Spaces Architects@KA, this tall and narrow home in the streets of New Delhi, India has a unique and mesmerizing element to it. The home includes a large wall mural. This beautiful mural is the focal point of the home, and it covers multiple floors. Spanning through various stories, the mural occupies a significant space in the house, letting the work of art be beautifully integrated with the living space, while also holding a powerful place of its own.
The colorful mural includes a tree with leaves, flowers, and birds. The home is adorned with interior walkways which offer unobstructed and clear views of the mural. Visitors can peacefully admire and gaze at the work of art. The delightful mural adds color and spark to an otherwise pretty neutral home, with a skylight offering natural lighting to the entire area. With the natural light falling artfully and gently on the mural, it creates an interesting effect, adding an other-worldly appeal to the home.
As you walk around the rest of the home, you are welcomed by a comfy space that is designed for a family of five. This spacious home has been tucked away inside a small and narrow site that measures 19 feet by 59 feet. The ground floor of the home can be used to host formal engagements as it includes a lounge, bar, and dining. The wall is lined by a sculptural wood bench, with the dining area softly transitioning into the lounge and bar space. The home also includes a formal living room.
The first floor of the home accommodates a bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, a kitchen, and a puja space for daily prayers and reflection. This floor was designed to meet the needs of the homeowner’s father. The bedroom is accentuated with gold accents, much like the bathroom. The bedroom also includes an artistic section of the wall. Patterned floor tiles and wallpaper mark the puja room. Cut-outs have been dispersed throughout the home to offer cross ventilation, which allows fresh air to breeze through the home quite naturally. The skylight besides offering access to sunlight, also cuts down the dependency on artificial lighting during the daytime.
The second floor of the home is designed for the two daughters. The bedrooms are a direct reflection of their personalities, aspirations, and requirements, paving the way for some individuality inside a collective family home. The third floor is for the homeowners, and this space includes a bedroom, an en-suite bathroom, and a study with a window seat.
With our hectic lives which pretty much involve us running around all day, the right footwear can make a world of difference. Shoes started off as functional designs meant to protect our feet, and yes we need to pick ones that do exactly that, BUT, they should also reflect our style statements and represent our personality and our personal fashion sense. After all, don’t they say that you can tell a lot about a man by the state of his shoes? Personally, I love a good pair of sturdy and stylish sneakers, ones that can get me through the day without giving me any shoe bites, and also match my outfits. However, I do know that this isn’t the case with everybody. People have high demands and expectations when it comes to their footwear, hence designers are unleashing all of their creative juices, leaving no stones unturned in making unique, innovative, and ergonomic shoes. From the world’s first net-zero carbon shoe to Marvel x Nike Football sneakers – these footwear designs are as futuristic, inventive, and fashionable as they can get!
1. Marvel x Nike Sneakers
Say hello to these stunning Marvel x Nike Football sneakers created by Paul Parsons using MidJourney’s AI. The unique and mind-blowing shoes perfectly capture the grandeur and power of MCU’s most iconic heroes and antiheroes. The sneaker series includes 9 different footwear models, which are inspired by the memorable and distinct characters from the Avengers movie, and Wolverine too!
2. Pringles x Crocs Collection
Meet the adorable Pringles x Crocs collection! This amusing collection is the first time Pringles has stepped into the footwear business. They’ve created three different Pringles-inspired footwear designs, and there is also a new limited-edition Crocs-inspired Pringles flavor: watermelon chili lime! How amazing, is that? There are also Pringles-themed Jibbitz charms for those who love to collect cute little chars.
3. Disassembly Lab Sneaker
The Disassembly Lab’s footwear features clever construction, and easy-to-disassemble parts, which makes this shoe quite easy and simple to repair or even recycle. The shoe has two distinctive halves – the upper body and the outsole with plugs, which allow you to wind a piece of rubber band around. This rubber band holds the two halves together, which forms a flexible design even during movement. The rubber band becomes an integral element of the shoe.
4. Laceless Poseidon
Meet the Laceless Poseidon – this unique sneaker design destroys the mold of how footwear is typically designed. It doesn’t have the usual or typical body of a shoe, and it looks as if it is covered by an alien substance! The outsole and body merge into one distinct structure, with unique-looking organic patterns that resemble footprints. These patterns add a rather innovative and mesmerizing touch to the shoe’s overall aesthetic.
5. Weaver+ Shoes
We|aver+ or Weaver+ 3D prints a unique material that is similar to knitted fabric, except it utilizes elastic TPU. The 3D-printed shoe resembles a chainmail more than typical fabrics. The hollow-loose knitting structure offers the shoe the flexibility needed to support the growth of children, while also providing stable and sturdy support to ensure the heels do not lose their supplements.
6. Moonwalker X
Shift Robotics developed an improved version of the Moonwalker X, and unveiled it at CED 2024. The AI-powered shoes were developed to enhance productivity without compromising safety. It can be put to good use in your daily life, you can hurry to your office in the morning, or commute through the crowded city streets using these super cool shoes. They’re like rollerblades on steroids!
7. The Simpson Stan Smith Sneakers
Adidas has introduced The Simpsons into its iconic Stan Smith sneakers! These sneakers create a symbiotic fusion that transcends fashion trends. The tennis shoe is adorned with Marge’s lovable husband Homer. Adidas has integrated one of Homer’s popular scenes into the shoe – where he slowly backs into the bush. This scene is much loved by meme enthusiasts from all over the world!
8. NikeCraft General Purpose Shoe
Meet the NikeCraft General Purpose Shoe (GPS), which is one of the latest additions to the NikeCraft lineup. The shoe is designed to be an “Ordinary Shoe for Extraordinary People”, as it lets them do everything everywhere. The shoes are a beautiful celebration of the 10-year collaboration between Nike and Tom Sachs. The shoes are minimal and subtle, with a look that is both sporty and yet classy.
9. Rewild the Run Sneakers
A graduate of the London University Central Saint Martins, Kiki Grammatopoulos, created a rather unique running shoe that spreads plants and seeds throughout the cities. The outsoles of the shoes are inspired by bison hoofs, and they are designed to encourage people to get involved with rewilding. The shoes not only support you in your daily workout, but they also help spread seeds throughout the city.
10. The M0.0NSHOT
Designed by Allbirds, the Mo.oNSHOT is the world’s first net carbon shoe at the Global Fashion Summit in Copenhagen. The unique shoes are supposed to have a net carbon footprint of 0.0 kg CO2, and they feature a minimal and clean all-grey woolly sock-style trainer form with an upper that is crafted from regenerative wool and a bioplastic midsole. These shoes are one of the most sustainable mass-produced shoes we’ve seen till now!
If you’re a remote worker who works from home or often works on the go – you do need a desk to work on. Whether it is at home, or in your favorite cafe, employees always find a comfy desk to work on. You may be typing away to glory, munching away on a snack, or simply fidgeting with a random object – you do end up spending hours on your desk. And hence, your desk must be neat, tidy, and uncluttered. Not only will this improve your work routine and productivity, but it will also help you maintain a clearer and more streamlined mindset. And, I’ve discovered that adding limited, quality, and innovative products to my desk setup can help me in achieving these goals! The desk accessories you place on your desk are an integral part of your home/corporate office. And we’ve curated a collection of ingenious desk accessories for your desk!
Altar I Keyboard
The Altar I keyboard is made from sustainable materials such as post-consumer waste-derived plastic. It has a unibody aluminum framed peripheral with both U.K. and U.S. layouts with 78 and 77 key layouts. It is the first product made from eco-friendly materials by the electronics startup Electronic Materials Office.
Why is it noteworthy?
The keycaps are made from recycled polymers and hence aren’t a threat to Planet Earth. It is created for touch typing and can be used on two devices at the same time, which is an excellent option for those who switch between their laptop and tablet.
What we like
Features a minimalist and crisp font
Made using recyclable materials
What we dislike
Only available in black, no other color options
2. Serenity Pen Stand
Meet the Serenity Pen Stand – a nifty and minimal little product that stores your prized pen. Pens can be lost quite easily, and this pen stand with its minimalist design and metallic hint supports your pen, allowing it to stand upright, keeping it ready for you to pick up and use!
This pen stand offers quick and easy access to your pen at all times. It safeguards it and makes sure you never lose it. Crafted from aluminum and copper, the Serenity Pen Stand includes a well-balanced cylinder, which adds some charm to your desk.
What we like
Minimal and sleek design which is easy to carry around and set up
What we dislike
Features a small size, so you could lose the stand as well, if not handled well
3. Gravity Pen
The Gravity Pen is the perfect companion for the Serenity Pen Stand! It is a unique pen that places the center of gravity close to your fingers, ensuring that the pen is easy to hold and write with. It has a larger grip than the barrel, which facilitates a comfy and efficient hold.
The pen has a faceted form which makes it quite easy to grip, creating a stable and sturdy grip. It has an ergonomic form, owing to the clever application of minimalist design principles and physics.
What we like
Has an ergonomic design that is easy to use and hold
Lightweight and sturdy body
What we dislike
Not available in different color options, hence there is a limited choice
4. Pen Fan
Meet the innovative Pen Fan – an innovative stationery design that is a cross between a stationery set and a Pantone shade card. The design features 8 different flat-headed sketch pens in a compact, efficient, and easy-to-carry, as well as an easy-to-use set.
Why is it noteworthy?
The various flat pens are interconnected, creating a cute little Japanese-fan-style layout that proudly showcases all 8 colors, letting you pick and choose from them. The pens are detachable, and you can easily snap on and off the pens, to create a palette that caters to you.
What we like
The set is portable and quite easy to carry
Ensures you don’t lose any of the pens
What we dislike
Only 8 colors to pick from. They could have added more color options
5. DESKRISK
Called DESKRISK, this collection of desk accessories is designed to protect us from the adverse effects of sitting on your desk all day long, straining our eyes and neck. This collection includes a desk clock, which reminds us to take a break from constantly staring at the screens.
Why is it noteworthy?
The second product is a lamp, which reminds you to move along with the light source, so you’re not constantly bowing down and looking at your desk. These products function as an intervention, urging you to take a much-needed break from your desk, and from working all day long.
What we like
Great collection for people who are at risk due to the nature of their work
What we dislike
The magazine rack is supposed to resemble carpal tunnel syndrome, and we’re unsure how it will help with wrist problems
6. Bookish Bookmark
Dubbed the Bookish Bookmark, this compact & convenient product is a must-have for book lovers. If you’re someone who enjoys reading a book or two on their workdesk, while completing other tasks, then you need to get your hands on this. The bookmark keeps your book open for you, and you don’t need to use something heavy to put it down.
The bookmark is an excellent option for those who want to read while multitasking. It has a clear transparent design, and it keeps your book wide open, adding an interesting and thoughtful element to your desk.
What we like
Lets you display your favorite book in a neat and convenient manner
Lets you read while multitasking
What we dislike
The bookmark seems to be too big for small books, and not the best option for those who prefer simple and discreet bookmarks
7. Anywhere-Use Lamp
This compact, minimal, and simple lamp design is called the Anywhere-Use Lamp, and it is a clever lighting solution in a space where glaring screens and bright lights reign supreme. The lamp has an adorable mushroom-shaped head, which emits a soft, relaxing, and ambient glow.
The lamp is powered by four AA batteries, and it features a modular design that offers atmospheric enhancement wherever it is placed. The lamp is equipped with six high-color rendering LEDs, and it creates an oasis of peace and relaxation in your home.
What we like
Features four brightness levels
You can easily disassemble the lamp, and take it anywhere with you
What we dislike
The lamp isn’t water-resistant, can be an issue if you carry it outdoors
8. Plant-Inspired Desk Accessories
These plant-inspired desk accessories try to inspire you to think about real greenery and try to create the same peaceful and calm experience you would have if an actual plant was standing on your desk. These accessories are designed to elicit emotions of tranquility and relaxation.
Why is it noteworthy?
The plant-inspired accessories are of course just excellent imitations, and not the real deal. The collection includes great products such as the Greenery Pencil Holder which includes a ‘leaf’ that functions as a container, or the Greenery Clock which is an abstract product that functions as a minimalist digital clock.
What we like
Lets you add some green hues to your desk
What we dislike
It’s a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product
9. Everlasting All-Metal Pencil
Called the Everlasting All-Metal Pencil, this unique pencil includes a tip that can’t be replaced and doesn’t need to be sharpened. The pencil lets you focus less on the lead, and pay more attention to your creative process! It is an excellent alternative to traditional graphite pencils which tend to wear down soon.
The Everlasting All-Metal has an octagonal shaft made from aluminum with a special alloy core. The pencil draws like a real pencil and doesn’t wear down even after many marks.
What we like
The pencil uses a metal core, so it wears down so slowly, that you may think it will outlive you
What we dislike
Not the best for people who use smudging techniques, since it doesn’t smudge
10. World Clock
If you need to keep an eye on the time always, or else you’ll end up lagging in your tasks, then you may as well purchase the World Clock. The World Clock isn’t your everyday typical desk clock, it features a unique dodecagonal shape and has only one hand on its minimalist and simple face.
The unique form of the World Clock is thoughtfully designed, as it offers the right information about your region, while also incorporating some fun details on the time in other parts of the world. You can tell the hour with one quick glance, while a longer look will tell you which quarter of the hour it is.
What we like
The clock features individual markings for a city that represent a specific timezone
What we dislike
The World Clock has only 12 set time zones, you miss out on the other time zones
