I’ve spent much time in the beautiful beach town of Goa, India, which truly has a special place in my heart. Coconut trees, salty air, restless waves, and red sandy paths adorn the region. The architecture is a mix of old and new, with traces of the Portuguese influence interwoven with modern Indian-influenced structures. Nestled in the vibrant and lush tropical area of North Goa is a beautiful new restaurant dubbed Como Agua. It provides patrons with stunning views across the Vagator cliffs, allowing them to admire the mesmerizing sea from an impressive elevated location.
Designer: Otherworlds
Designed by the architects at Otherworlds, Como Agua is tucked away on an elevated perch, offering the restaurant a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding landscape and sea. The bar is adorned with two large nests at the top, making it a truly unique and innovative structure. The oversized nests give the restaurant an Amazonian vibe, offering the impression that you’ve walked into the tropics.
It occupies 3750 square meters, and is a vivacious open-air design built from bamboo and Lantana camera – an invasive flowering shrub that torments the local flora and fauna. The founder of Otherworlds, Arko Saha said that the plant “has invaded over 40 percent of the Western Ghats, a total of 13 million hectares of Indian landscape. Arriving in India as an ornamental plant in the early 1800s, lantana has escaped from gardens and taken over entire ecosystems.”
It’s quite interesting to see how they’ve utilized a shrub species that was wreaking havoc on the floral fauna and transformed it into a harmonious and integral element of the building. The architectural team wrapped the Lantana camera around the metal railings, bar, partitions, and canopies to build unique interlaced structures that look as if they’ve been built by weaverbirds!
The team says that – “The weavers are social birds, usually nesting and feeding in colonies. They collect all sorts of natural materials like twigs, fibers, and leaves to weave a membrane that acts as their nest, usually hanging from the branch of a tree. Materials used for building nests include fine leaf fibers, grass, and twigs. Many species weave very fine nests using thin strands of leaf fiber, though some, like the buffalo-weavers, form massive untidy stick nests in their colonies, which may have spherical woven nests within.”
Winter is by far my favorite season of the year, as the temperature drops, my excitement rises! Chilly nights followed by frosty mornings, cozy naps in bed with blankets wrapped around me, and cups of hot cocoa – it all sounds like heaven to me. As blissful and beautiful as winter can be, it can also be harsh on our bodies and our lifestyles, if we don’t equip ourselves for it. So, we’ve curated a bunch of super interesting and functional tech designs to get you through this winter season…in style! These innovative designs are the ultimate winter essentials for you.
1. Tornado
NextNova has designed something pretty awesome – a terracotta heater with a unique airflow pattern that creates an impressive tower of fire that heats your home, while also having the option to distribute a fragrance of your choice.
Why is it noteworthy?
Dubbed the Tornado, this terracotta-based heater merges the charm of a fireplace with the safety of a scented candle. It works based on airflow and the thermal properties of baked clay to produce radiating heat for the outdoors and the indoors. It burns bioethanol utilizing ceramic wool as a substrate.
What we like
Outputs 7000 BTU (British Thermal Units) of heat
Mimics the effect of a fireplace without the danger and hazards of smoke or a disaster
What we dislike
There is open space on the top, and on one side, so it could be dangerous for kids and pets when placed indoors
2. Bio Heater
Called the Bio Heater, this innovative appliance provides an ingenious and novel way to make excellent and judicious use of cooking oil that would otherwise be wasted after use. Designed by Unichest for their client Flint Lab, the Bio Heater is a unique solution that employs cooking oil as fuel.
Why is it noteworthy?
It uses cooking oil to produce an eco-friendly fuel for the Bio Heater. It is equipped with a combustion technology under its belly which transfers heat energy, which is then further radiated in the room.
What we like
Features a minimal and clean design that perfectly merges with modern homes
The rounded top can be used to hold items when not in use
What we dislike
Bulky and space-consuming design, not intended for smaller homes
3. Hotdog Hand Warmer
The Hotdog Hand Warmer is designed to warm your hand with the appearance of a cute dog’s face. Although it’s not easy to catch the resemblance easily, once you do, you really can’t unsee it. It is the kind of design that will be appreciated by people of all ages, including kids who have no idea about different breeds.
Why is it noteworthy?
The hand warmer isn’t just a “hot dog”, it is an easy-to-use hand warmer, that can be charged via USB from a power bank or even a smartphone, making the device pretty portable and usable almost anywhere. It features a simple slider to switch between off and two heat settings to suit your needs and comfort levels.
What we like
Delivers warmth while also providing an emotional and adorable experience
What we dislike
The dog’s ear or nose doesn’t function as buttons
It isn’t exactly a revolutionary design
4. Thermaphones
The Thermaphones are an innovative pair of cans created to alter the temperature to nullify the effect of both a super hot day or a super chilly winter. They’re designed by Kevin Chiam.
Why is it noteworthy?
The headphones have a unique hybrid design, and the temperature-changing earbuds offer unique thermal comfort. The earcups on the headphones are super cozy and comfy.
What we like
Eradicates any chances of vertigo induced by the extreme variation in temperature
It provides you comfort during the winter and summer
What we dislike
It’s a concept, so we don’t know how the final tangible product will turn out to be, and how effective it will be
5. POCO
Called POCO: Portable Capsule Coffee Machine, this compact and lightweight device can be slid easily into your backpack or bag along with coffee pods, making it a great coffee maker on the go for the winter.
Why is it noteworthy?
You can recharge POCO via a USB-C, charging it on the go using your laptop or a portable charger, making it an excellent device for those who are always on the move.
What we like
Features a built-in thermal insulation function
Allows you to enjoy a cup of coffee anytime anywhere
What we dislike
Since it’s a concept we don’t know how functional and credible it will be as an actual product
6. Breeze Desktop Hand Warmer
Named the Breez desktop hand warmer, this little device makes texting in the cold super easy and efficient. The desktop hand warmer makes using your keyboard a breeze!
Why is it noteworthy?
Designed to keep your fingers warm and toasty, the Breez desktop hand warmer lets you clack away on your keyboard without feeling cold. It features a horizontal form that uniformly warms your hand as you type.
What we like
The hand warmer covers the entire keyboard making sure there are no cold zones or spots
What we dislike
There aren’t any color options, besides pastel blue, so not a lot of variety
7. Fire Safe
The Fire Safe is an envelope-sized, portable fire and cooking companion that lets you create a warm and comfy fire wherever and whenever you like. It creates communal campfires and cooking experiences with friends and family.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Fire Safe builds quaint campfire and cooking experiences while minimizing the environmental footprints left behind by typical campfires. It features a hinged collapsible design.
What we like
Lightweight and slim design
Portable and easy-to-carry design
What we dislike
It is built from stainless steel, which cause a unique patina to form over time, which may not be preferred by all users and their myriad tastes
8. Hearth
Dubbed Hearth, this stylish but normal table with a black tabletop is designed to be a stunning centerpiece in its dormant state, but also as an electric fireplace in its activated state. It has a tapered and shuttered base to evoke images of a burning fire.
Why is it noteworthy?
The glow that comes from within the heater provides a warm and soft light that feels like an alluring and open invitation for families and friends to huddle together and spend some quality time together, much like what people did in ancient times.
What we like
Multifunctional design that works as a fireplace and a coffee table
What we dislike
It’s a concept so we don’t know how well it’ll translate into an actual product
9. UZE Heated Jacket
Called the UZE Heated Jacket, this unique and innovative jacket totally changes the jacket game, by letting you wear it in all four seasons, while also giving you the power to decide how warm you wanna get.
Why is it noteworthy?
It features four graphene heat zones and three heat settings of 120°F, 140°F, and 160°F, so you don’t have to search for the right jacket when it gets colder or warmer. By simply pressing a button, you can select the level of warmth that will make you feel comfy.
What we like
Can keep you warm for up to 10 hours and charges in 45 minutes
What we dislike
Aesthetics are quite dull, they could be worked upon
10. BioLite Firepit
Called the BioLite Firepit, this smoke-less wood burner lets users have a little glance into whatever is going on inside the fire. The pit doesn’t need any chemical fuel or gas to build a great fire.
Why is it noteworthy?
The firepit utilizes standard wood mixed with some clever engineering, which basically involves air being injected through 51 air jets, which maintains a uniform temperature throughout the firepit, providing improved combustion.
What we like
It is equipped with a fan that controls the fire’s intensity
What we dislike
You need to have access to chopped wood at all times to use it, otherwise it is useless
Electronic bikes have taken the automobile industry by storm! Living a more sustainable and conscious life has become imperative, with life on Earth getting more and more difficult. Curbing fuel consumption, and reducing automotive emissions has become critical, and e-bikes are an environment-friendly option, encouraging these practices. With the e-bike craze gaining momentum, designers have been coming up with innovative and super cool e-bike designs, and we’ve collected a few for you. Dive in!
1. Diode
Designed by Tien Hung, this e-bike concept is called the Diode, and it features a neo-minimalistic design that pays tribute to the future of the electric power train. The form of the bike is practically invisible, except for one singular horizontal pillar that smoothly runs from the dashboard to the taillight and a massive battery module that is nestled underneath it. It also features a powerful rear-wheel drivetrain and a comfy set.
2. MOQBA
Dubbed the MOQBA, this concept design is an e-scooter/bike that can climb stairs! It is designed to be a next-generation mobility ride for those who often face difficulty in mobility. It is not intended to be a two-wheel wonder, rather it rides on four independent legs with wheel extensions. It can be categorized as an innovative mini mecha for the future! Although at the moment, it does seem a bit far-fetched, it could have valuable utility in the future.
3. Mimic E-bike
The MIMIC e-bike is a powerful electric power that looks like a crouching jungle cat of a bike and was designed by Roman Dolzhenko. It is outfitted with a body that looks more like armor and comes with a rounded Tron Light Cycle-inspired form that is outfitted with rounded elements, and an overall absence of straight lines or sharp edges.
4. Pro.Zui
The Pro.Zui is something between a scooter, a moped, and an e-bike. Designed to be a daily commuter, it features a sleek design aesthetic amped up by cutting-edge technology, providing users with an incredible riding experience. It can cover a range of 120 kilometers on a single charge from an advanced electric battery. It utilizes state-of-the-art battery technology, supporting a reliable and long-lasting journey.
5. Porsche 619 Concept
Designed by Jackson Zhang, the Porsche 619 electric concept is an exciting response to Porsche’s plans to go electric by 2030. The 619 is the first proper electric motorcycle we’ve seen, and it features a unique design, putting Porsche’s automotive DNA in the backseat, while also creating something minimalist, geometry-driven, and iconic! It features a segmented LED matrix headlight like the one seen in the Taycan, while the seat features the word “Porsche” on the outer cover.
6. The Project M³ Concept Motorbike
Called the Project M³ concept motorbike, this automotive is designed by Richard Huang and features an ingrained biomimicry for motorheads. It has a head inspired by the dolphin, and the electric motor onboard is charged using a blowhole-like nose, imparting a lifelike presence to it. The dolphin is mirrored on the toothed wheel rims, and the front headlights section too.
7. The Mantis
Named the Mantis, and called a MiniBike, this compact little two-wheeler is an urban commuting dream. It seats one person and lets the rider easily and swiftly cover distances. It features a unique, horizontal frame with a seat and handlebars at the same level, and it also features a detachable and replaceable battery that can be packed right underneath the seat.
8. BMW G7 Scrambler
Coined the BMW G7 Scrambler, this electric bike with a Z-shaped frame, a bottom-heavy design, a cantilever seat, and a stunning headlight, is truly the words “if looks could kill” come to life! It is a unique-looking concept that comes with a choice between a fuel-based and electric powertrain, although both variants look identical on the outside.
9. Colibri M22
Petre Georgescu designed an electric bike that can reach the farthest on a single charge! Called the Colibri M22, this foldable electric moped can get you as far as 200km without having to recharge. Once you’re done commuting, you can easily fold and store the e-bike somewhere, for example under stairways, or in a storage area as it features compact mechanisms that can be neatly folded away.
10. 2029 E-Bike
Inspired by the revolutionary design of the 1929 Majestic built by George Roy, this 2029 e-bike combines art-deco and automotive design to build an innovative design that features clean-cut geometric shapes that are created by sheet-metal fabrication, alongside bone-inspired generative-design details that have been 3D printed in metal.
We’ve been seeing a torrential and exciting downpour of automotive designs at Yanko Design for the past few months. Each automotive was innovative, bringing to us something we had never seen nor experienced before. From killer speed to dashing good looks, to impenetrable safety standards, every automotive we featured at YD broke some design barrier for us, and hopefully, they did the same for you as well. Hence, we’ve curated a collection of automotive designs that we feel were the best of the lot. From a bicycle with square wheels to an eVTOL aircraft that doesn’t need a pilot’s license– each of these drool-worthy automobiles is mercilessly pushing the boundaries of the automotive industry. Automotive enthusiasts will be itching to get their hands on them, and take them for a spin on the streets!
1. Ford Mini Bronco
Designed by Mexico-based Kobayashi, the Ford Mini Bronco gives us a thrilling glance into the year 2030 – the year which this unique and mindblowing car has been designed for. The Mini Bronco is equipped with modern elements, amped by a compact, two-door configuration, which brings to mind the Suzuki Jimny. The automotive is designed to redefine the off-road segment, by offering it with a refreshing and rather unique perspective.
2. Palladio
Dubbed Palladio, this concept for a hybrid yacht is designed to be ultra-light and can speed up to 55 knots maximum. It looks straight out of a sci-fi movie set in water and features a futuristic, mouth-shaped, avant-garde design that gives the impression that a pod is cruising through the waters. The yacht is made from carbon fiber propelled via twin Castoldi jets, and powered by two FTP engines.
3. Vanderer Citroën 2CV Electric Mini Camper Van
Vanderer is a niche automotive design firm that recently designed a beautiful electric mini camper van inspired by the iconic Citroën 2CV. The classic 2CV was given a futuristic transformation, harmoniously merging the charm of the past with the sustainability of the present. It features an integrated electric powertrain and provides a clean and eco-friendly driving experience.
4. Gordieiev’s Bicycle with Square Wheels
Say hello to the bicycle with square wheels. Designed by Sergii Gordieiev, this innovative bicycle is like a war tank moving on its metal tracks without any wheels! The wheels on the bicycle don’t roll, but instead, the rubber on the conveyor belt-like platform rotates as soon as you hit your foot on the pedal. It is completely usable in a city, and you can take turns on it.
5. Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL Flying Car
Called the Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL Flying Car, this eVTOL flying car is designed and developed by AeroHT electric aviation wing of the Chinese auto company XPeng. Unlike most of the traditional ideas found on the market, this modular flying car has a unique and different approach, it features a two-part design – one part car, and the other an eVTOL, allowing it to seamlessly switch between land and aerial modes.
6. Helix
Dubbed Helix, this lightweight electric VTROL aircraft is designed by a Palo Alto, California-based company Pivotal, and it has been in the works for about a decade. It doesn’t need a runway or pilot’s license to go airborne! It features fixed rotors and tandem wings, and is a single-seat aircraft that can be flown without an FAA pilot certification!
7. Electric Mobility Bicycle
This Cake bike-inspired electric bicycle takes the hybrid nature of personal commuters to a whole another level. The commuter has a modular nature that makes it ideal for different kinds of users. The bicycle takes inspiration from everyday gadgets, featuring a sleek form without compromising on the bike’s robust aesthetic at all. Although the saddle does have an awkward shape, that may not be comfy for the rider for long durations.
8. Renault 5 E-Tech
The French carmaker Renault debated its iconic sports car in a retro-modern avatar called the Renault 5 E-Tech. The modernized and cute version carries the same fun and styling in an eco-friendly version. It has more rugged wheel arches, as well as a boxier body frame and a flowing soft-top roof. The original bonnet air intake has been morphed into a charging port.
9. Mitsubishi DX Concept
Dubbed the Mitsubishi DX Concept, this compact and versatile lifestyle van is designed to perfectly portray the company’s commitment to boosting the arena of adventure travel. It is called the “tiny adventure van”, and has a rather futuristic and innovative design. It was presented at the Japanese Mobility Show, a show that focuses on awakening the “adventurous spirit within”.
10. Adventure Electric Unicycle
The Adventure electric unicycle was truly designed to push the boundaries of exploration! It features a beefy 4000 W motor capable of producing 200 Nm (147.5 lb. ft) of torque and 850 N traction force. This converts it into a powerful commuter that is ready to conquer steep inclines and uneven terrain with the utmost ease and efficiency! It accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and goes at a top speed of 110 km/h.
There’s something about an A-frame cabin that instantly puts you at ease and makes you feel at home. I personally love cabin getaways and spending the weekend, nestled away in the woods, in a quintessential and humble A-frame cabin, is my idea of the perfect stress buster! Away from the hustle-bustle of the city, and surrounded by the warm sun, lush trees, and gentle wind. What could be better than that? So, we’ve curated a collection of super cozy and welcoming A-frame cabins that promise to help you relax, rejuvenate, and connect with nature. Add these cabins to your must-visit bucket list and get planning!
1. A-Frame Club
Designed by Skylab Architecture, and dubbed the A-frame Club, these 31 A-frame cabins are arranged in a hexagonal arrangement and are an upgraded and better version of traditional ski chalets. They are prefabricated cabins and are located in Winter Park, Colorado.
Why is it noteworthy?
With a contemporary twist, the compact and adorable cabins form a snowflake pattern across the three-acre lot. Occupying 23,450 feet, the project “takes design cues from 1970s American ski culture and the iconic A-frame cabins of that era,” said the studio.
What we like
Retain the essence of traditional ski chalets, while upgrading them
What we dislike
The loft bed is accessible via a ship’s ladder, which can be inconvenient to use and isn’t very inclusive
2. Cabins in Farouche Tremblant
A series of A-frame buildings populate the Devil River’s Valley with the Mont-Tremblant National Park in the background. The Farouche Tremblant agrotourism site includes four rental micro-cabins, a cafe, and a farm.
Why is it noteworthy?
Designed by the Canadian architecture studio Atelier l’Abri, the buildings are meant to “recede in the landscape”. The studio designed that function as a basecamp for visitors who want to visit Devil’s River and Valley.
What we like
Features outdoor decking and a glazed gable end which enables visitors to truly make the most of the vistas of the surrounding natural landscape
What we dislike
The aesthetics of the cabins are a bit old-school
3. Dune Dormer
Dubbed the Dune Dormer, this rustic A-frame cabin was built by RTA Studio on the stunning Great Barrier Island in New Zealand. The cabin is inspired by the traditional Pacific huts, which is quite evident in its gable roof hut.
Why is it noteworthy?
Mimicking the traditional Maori huts, the Dune Dormer’s silhouette reminds you of a harbor standing upright on a dune, helping seafaring owners reach home. It creates a minimal impact on its surrounding landscape.
What we like
Inspired by traditional Maori huts
Has a spacious feel to it unlike traditional A-frame cabins
What we dislike
The aesthetics of the cabin may be too old school for some
5. Slope House
Called the Slope House, this untraditional A-frame cabin is truly one-of-a-kind, and it uses a biophilic design inside and out. It is an angular timber cabin that is tucked away on top of an idyllic hillside somewhere in the lush rainforests of Brazil.
Why is it noteworthy?
It features a signature triangular frame that is an interesting and thoughtful twist on the conventional A-frame cabin. It is made up of two modules, and one internal volume that hosts the cabin’s bedroom, while the other accommodates the home’s main living spaces.
What we like
A biophilic design style has been integrated into the cabin’s interior spaces
Natural plants have been added inside the house as a small garden
What we dislike
The theme and form of the home may be a bit too eccentric for some
6. Kiani’s Lakehouse
Soheil Kiani designed this lakehouse that is formed by two symmetrical A-frame cabins connected by a glass sky bridge. This stunning home is envisioned in the foothills of Gisoom forest near the city of Talesh, Iran.
Why is it noteworthy?
The lakehouse is nestled near the forest’s beginnings, and it is designed to provide guests and residents with an immersive experience in nature, where they get to enjoy all the beauty the natural forest has to offer.
What we like
Made up of north and south-facing facades that are built entirely from glass
What we dislike
It’s a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a real tangible product
7. UHU
Called UHU, this tiny A-frame-esque cabin is raised on stilts and located in the heart of Charlevoix, Canada. The name translates to ‘owl’ in the Innu language, and it nested 12 meters in the air, with access to lovely views of the Saint-Laurence River.
Why is it noteworthy?
The triangular cabin features a glazed facade which allows for generous views of the surrounding forest and green landscape. You can enter the cabin via an enclosed spiral staircase, and a 6-meter bridge. Although compact in size, the UHU cabin is equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable and cozy stay.
What we like
Offers an immersive experience amidst the treetops
It is elevated 12 meters above the ground
What we dislike
It can only accommodate two people
8. Nolla
Called Nolla, meaning ‘zero’ in Finnish, this cabin functions entirely on renewable energy and is located on the Vallisaari island, near Helsinki. It is built using sustainable materials such as local plywood and pine and is designed to support a ‘zero waste lifestyle’.
Why is it noteworthy?
Every element has been designed with the hope of not leaving behind any carbon footprint. Covered by mirrors and supported by wooden stilts, it excludes modern commodities.
What we like
Powered by emission-free solar panels and a Wallas stove that runs on Nestle’s MY renewable diesel
What we dislike
Can not accommodate too many people, so it’s not the best option for families
9. Bivvi
The Bivvi is a modular and transportable A-frame cabin that is designed to bring people closer to the outdoors. It can be attached to your car for road trips, or to a foundation for permanent placement.
Why is it noteworthy?
Mobility was their main source of inspiration, and each Bivvi Cabin can be swiftly attached to a trailer hitch and tow, allowing it to be transported almost anywhere. The Bivvi Cabin is even outfitted with off-grid capabilities like three 600W AC outlets, and a 100W solar panel.
What we like
Can be transported anywhere, supporting spontaneous trips to nature
What we dislike
The cabin can only really accommodate a desk and bed in terms of furniture
10. Iwi Cabin
Dubbed the Iwi Cabin, this innovative and unique design isn’t like ordinary A-frame cabins. It features a space-maximizing design that can be compressed and expanded as and when needed. It is like an accordion-shaped shed, that lets city dwellers expand space in their apartments.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Iwi Cabin is super easy to operate since owners can push and pull the shed, owing to the wheel system that allows it to be swiftly and efficiently handled and stored away.
What we like
The cabin is resistant to rain, wind, and sunshine
The interiors are outfitted using cork and sheep’s wool which provides insulation to the cold
What we dislike
The cabin features only one door/window, hence it is the only source of ventilation in the cabin
It doesn’t matter where you’re working, whether at home or in a commercial life, both these scenarios involve a desk! A desk is probably one of the most important pieces of furniture in our modern lives, only because we spend the majority of our day on it. 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! And we’ve curated a collection of smart and well-designed desk gear to help you achieve peak productivity. Happy working!
1. POD
This minimalist timer lets you enjoy the simple benefits of a Pomodoro timer without relying on a clunky analog timer, especially one that looks like an awkward little tomato on your desk.
Why is it noteworthy?
Dubbed POD, this unique tool combines the feeling of an analog timer with the convenience and utility of an electronic device in a simple, minimalist, and appealing form. The only control it has is pushing the puck down like a button, which then starts the countdown.
What we like
Minimally distracting, utilizing only flashing lights to get your attention rather than sounds or vibrations
What we dislike
Replacing the battery seems a bit tedious and annoying
It is quite tiny, so can be easily misplaced
2. Grovemade Note-Taking Kit
Named the Grovemade Note-Taking Kit, this innovative kit helps you effortlessly and efficiently capture down, process, and store notes, hence boosting your daily productivity, and ensuring your process feels simple and free-flowing.
Why is it noteworthy?
The kit includes a refillable notepad with dot grid paper and a solid metallic base, alongside a display rail to hold and store your notes and devices, while also offering a vertical organizer that stores your notes until you need to use them.
What we like
Provides a neat workdesk, that helps you complete the important tasks at hand, and elevate productivity
What we dislike
Occupies a substantial amount of real estate on your desk, not well-suited for smaller desks
3. Quick-Access Organizer
Dubbed the Quick-Access Organizer, this minimal and compact organizer is designed to ensure you never lose all your essentials. It is a well-designed organizer that helps you perfectly organize your essentials so you’re never in fear of losing them, allowing you to have a tidy desk that boosts productivity.
Why is it noteworthy?
This smart organizer isn’t simply a storage solution, it revolutionizes your desk, using magnetic wizardry to keep your essentials organized and easily available. It perfectly combines form and functionality, offering an excellent 21st-century design philosophy.
Equipped with a rotating mechanism that will take all the annoying guesswork out of storage
It is a lid and tray, making it a dual-functional product
What we dislike
Those who possess a larger array of items will find this organizer limiting and may need a bigger one
It can be concerning having magnets around certain electronic devices or cards, hence you need to be selective about what you store
4. Nemonic Gen 2
Dubbed the Nemonic Gen 2, this inkless, thermal, and wireless printer lets you effectively and efficiently print your notes and even images on Ultra Sticky Notes, and they won’t easily fall off!
Why is it noteworthy?
The tiny printer can be connected to your desktop and mobile devices allowing you to print out any notes that you may have written, drawn, or typed on the connected app. You can even integrate it with the Microsoft Office apps, and Slack and Zapier too, allowing you to maintain smooth productivity.
What we like
It lets you print out your notes directly and has a de-curl feature too
What we dislike
They don’t sell refills individually at this point, which is inconvenient if you run out of the notes
5. Fold
Designed by Ganti and Teixeira Design Studio, Fold is a 3D-printed lamp that casts its light downwards and upwards serving as a functional lamp, as well as a source of some good lighting. It’s a unique lamp that helps you work properly, while also letting you relax.
Why is it noteworthy?
The wall light doesn’t need to be turned on or off, nor do you need to adjust it, as the design itself brings two kinds of light together. It is a space-saving design as it can be mounted on the wall, or placed on a small desk or side table.
What we like
Offers both ambient light and direct light, helping you save up on owning multiple lamps
What we dislike
It looks a bit bulkier when used as a desk lamp, as compared to when it is wall-mounted
6. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter
Having an organized desk is quite important, as it helps you work efficiently while boosting your daily productivity. Having the right tool can help you create the ideal organized desk, and one such tool to add to your desk is this unique letter cutter.
Why is it noteworthy?
This innovative letter cutter reimagines a standard office tool, and efficiently slices through paper, while also doubling up as a chic paperweight ensuring there is no unnecessary clutter on your desk. A decluttered desk is the best solution for boosting productivity!
Has a precision cut that ensures that no messy scraps are left behind
Doubles up as a paperweight, ensuring there is less clutter on your desk, making it a dual-functional product
What we dislike
While fantastic for standard envelopes, it is not versatile enough for those bulkier packages or intricate mail, so you may need a separate letter cutter for those
7. The Note
Called the Note, this small desk whiteboard lets you take notes with the utmost efficiency. Except it’s no ordinary note taker, it has a few tricks up its sleeve and adds some fun and spice to your work.
Why is it noteworthy?
The unique whiteboard can twist or flip over, giving you twice the space to write your notes down effectively and efficiently. One side features a dotted grid surface, while the other side can be plain, or they could have the same design on both sides.
What we like
Features a multi-purpose vertical screen that allows you to view the time, calendar, and appointments synced with your phone
What we dislike
The screen doesn’t show videos, a function that some people may need for their work
8. SCROOM
Dubbed SCROOM, this portable keyboard looks like a wireless mechanical keyboard at first glance, however when you slide down the keyboard or slide up its bottom, it unveils a display that’s almost the same size as the keyboard.
Why is it noteworthy?
This unique display is a touch screen that’s filled with large-sized buttons, sliders, and other controls that can help you multitask on a tablet that has otherwise pretty limited space for multitasking.
What we like
Features a to-do list so that you don’t have to switch back and forth between apps
What we dislike
The sliding mechanism is a risk, especially for devices that get carried around a lot
9. Current Task Light
Called the Current Task Light, UK-based Jones and Partners designed this simple, minimalist, and highly functional lighting design that would make an excellent addition to your work desk. It occupies minimum space while helping you work better and more efficiently.
Why is it noteworthy?
The award-winning task lighting + charging concept is a multifunctional product to aid in your daily multitasking and is perfectly complementary to both residential and commercial spaces.
What we like
Allows coworkers to plug their devices across a large desk while working together
What we dislike
It’s a concept right now, so we don’t know how the final product will turn out
10. Wipe
Dubbed Wipe, this unique and innovative whiteboard notebook features an eraser allowing you to write, erase, and write things over and over again. This helps you note down all your precious ideas and thoughts, letting you work in a streamlined and efficient manner.
Why is it noteworthy?
Wipe has a comfortable personal size that is a tad bit smaller than A4 paper. It is portable, and you can write on it, take a photo that you could save or send to the cloud, erase all of it, and write again. You don’t need any preparation to use it, it is a fast and effective product!
What we like
Equipped with a newly developed Mag Force system that combines magnets and rubber brands, building a handle that also doubles up as a pen holder
What we dislike
You need to specifically use a dry-erase or whiteboard pen, and not a permanent marker
One of the most intimate and bonding experiences you can have is sharing a meal with someone. And, when it’s at your dinner table, the pressure to create an enjoyable and comfortable environment is higher than ever. A component that you can never truly ignore in a dining setup is tableware (the little things truly do count). Having excellent tableware is important. It has the potential to completely transform your dining experience, taking away attention even from the food! And if they happen to be sustainable then they’re a perfect match made in heaven. We’ve curated a collection of innovative and exciting tableware designs that are sure to be the highlight of your next dinner party!
1. Hida-Cedar Bowls
Designed by Higashi Shunkei, these stunning wood bowls were created using cedarwood sourced from the forest in Takayama. They’re sustainable, eco-friendly, and renewable, and not to mention drop-dead gorgeous! They would make a wonderful addition to your dinner table.
Why is it noteworthy?
Called, the Hida-Cedar bowls they are spun, finished, and lacquered within Higashi Shunkei’s workshop, and showcase a beautiful dark finish with light-colored bands, bringing to mind the image of a tiger’s striped skin.
What we like
Perfectly incorporates aesthetics and sustainability
Each bowl has a unique distorted pattern
What we dislike
There don’t seem to be a lot of options in color and size
2. Earth-Friendly Tumbler
PAPLUS is a new kind of thermoplastic resin that mixes biodegradable paper to add durability, heat resistance, and moldability which normal PLA lacks. This unique earth-friendly tumbler is made using this material
This earth-friendly tumbler uses an environment-friendly material to create a unique texture that is much like the surface of ceramic or wooden cups. Each sip from this tumbler brings forth a wonderful flavor to your tongue, while also creating an engaging sensation to your lips.
What we like
Uplifts the simple act of drinking water to a whole new sensory experience for your lips and tongue
Equipped with a heat resistance of 120°, allowing you to enjoy piping hot as well as ice-cold drinks
What we dislike
The natural color does become uneven and fade from use, which everyone may not like or prefer
3. Walnut Shell Tableware
If you mix walnut shells, pine resin, and Canauva Power you get NOS, which provides new CMFs with a wide range of colors, patterns, and light transmissions, since it involves grinding large volumes of walnut shells into different sizes.
Why is it noteworthy?
Pine resin is used to bind the NOS. Once the shell of the walnut is separated from the kernel, it is discarded as waste. This waste is being transformed into entire plates by designer SooA Choi! The plates are sustainable and eco-friendly!
What we like
A sustainable and excellent alternative to ceramics
What we dislike
Not the most aesthetically pleasing tableware, so won’t make a visually appealing addition to your dining table
4. Kreis Cup
Dubbed the Kreis Cup – this sustainable, durable, and eco-friendly coffee cup is designed to elevate and enhance your coffee-drinking experience. It is available in a cup and travel-mug style!
Why is it noteworthy?
The cup is heat-resistant and designed to keep your coffee hot for a longer time. It is a much better alternative to plastic mugs and breakable ceramic mugs, it is an excellent biodegradable option!
What we like
Made from spent coffee grounds
You can smell the faint unmistakable scent of coffee from it, making it a sensory experience for coffee lovers
What we dislike
There is currently no scope for personalization, which can be inconvenient for users who want their personal needs to be catered to
5. Wasteware Collection
Viennese designer Barbara Gollackner collaborated with Australian chef and restaurant owner Martin Kilga to create the ‘Wasteware’ collection, a range of tableware made using leftover food! The duo created a collection of bowls, plates, and cutlery using industrial and personal food waste.
Why is it noteworthy?
The tableware items were made using food waste such as pork skin and old bread, both acquired from personal and industrial waste. The waste was dried out and then blended into a smooth paste held together by mycelium.
What we like
Provides an effective solution to the issue of food wastage
Colorful and vibrant aesthetics, that will add a boost of color and life to your dining table
What we dislike
We’re unsure how durable the products are, and what is their lifespan
6. McDonald’s Reusable Tableware
French global design studio Elium Studio teamed up with McDonald’s France to build reusable tableware that can be used in the fast-food chain’s restaurants. The tableware collection is colorful and cute and made using Tritan – a plastic resin that is similar to glass and ceramic.
Why is it noteworthy?
The tableware was integrated with vents, graining, and striations to impart improved functionality and elevate the customer’s dining experience. The project has been in the works for almost two years, and it is truly commendable.
What we like
Retains McDonald’s original essence and design philosophy while being more eco-friendly
What we dislike
Plastic resin isn’t the most eco-friendly material out there, they could have picked a more sustainable alternative
7. Earth-Friendly Stacking Cup
You can now enjoy your favorite beverage in a stylish and minimal stacking cup that you know is saving the environment! It is made from eco-friendly synthetic materials and has a unique texture.
The unique texture of the cup is much like ceramic or wood, and it offers a sensory experience to your lips and mouth. It embodies minimal aesthetics and sustainable practice and produces a soul-enriching drinking experience that you’ll never forget.
What we like
Made from plant-derived biodegradable resin
The material biodegrades into water and carbon dioxide through natural microbial action
What we dislike
Aesthetically quite common to other cups on the market, nothing to set it apart
8. Smogware
The Smogware is an elegant minimal porcelain tableware collection that is really quite unique and innovative, and unlike any other tableware designs you may have seen.
Why is it noteworthy?
The designers harvested dust, notably air pollution from Rotterdam, Netherlands, and integrated it into utensils such as plates, cereal bowls, and coffee tables by harmoniously glazing the particles onto the items.
What we like
They harvest dust and incorporate it into the tableware, without it looking like dust
What we dislike
The backstory of the tableware may make one lose their appetite
9. Calzone
Calzone is a reusable folding plate, inspired by the Italian crescent-shaped turnovers that are a crowd favorite. The colorful and quirky product is perfect for picnics and hikes, because not only can it store food, but it also functions as a plate, making it a versatile multifunctional product.
Why is it noteworthy?
When folded, and closed in half, Calzone functions as a nifty little container, but when opened, it takes on a flat form and can be used as tableware to serve food. It’s the perfect replacement for one-time-use zipper bags and plates! Created from medical-grade silicone, Calzone is safe enough to be placed in the refrigerator, freezer, microwave, and oven.
What we like
Multifunctional product that serves as a plate and food container
What we dislike
10. Grass-Fed Bone China
Ceramist Gregg F Moore collaborated with Dan Barber, the chef and co-owner of Blue Hill restaurant to create a line of tableware that is essentially grass-fed bone china. This is china or ceramic created from the bones of grass-fed cows and the cows that Barber raises on his farms.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Blue Hill cows consume grass, instead of following the typical grain-based farm diet. Since they devour grass, they move and roam freely in search of greener pastures. This ensures that their bones are much stronger as compared to the cows found on other conventional farms, leading to stronger, creamier, and more durable ceramics.
What we like
The ceramics are stronger and more durable compared to the regular ones
Creating and building precise and intricate LEGO structures as a child was one of my favorite hobbies. I could spend hours sitting and creating the little builds, and I still hold those memories dear to my heart. I’m sure most of us have nostalgic and heartwarming memories associated with LEGO blocks from our childhood, as well as the not-so-heartwarming ones of stepping on them with our feet and feeling an insane amount of pain shoot up our legs. But nowadays LEGO is no longer considered child’s play. Master builders and LEGO enthusiasts all over the world have been creating impressive LEGO builds, and we’ve curated a few of our favorites for you!
1. LEGO Popcorn Machine
Built by Dimexart, this charming and adorable LEGO Popcorn Machine is built using LEGO blocks! This build brings to mind the vision of the iconic popcorn machines you usually see in movie theaters. It features a glorious retro-style theme and is made using 955 pieces. Even the popcorn is made from LEGO blocks! How cool is that?
2. LEGO T-Rex Offline Game
There was a time when users who browsed the web on Google Chrome noticed that when they couldn’t connect to the internet, it would display a “You are offline” message with a pixelated dinosaur standing amidst the desert terrain. If you pressed a key, it would kickstart a hidden game – where you could get the dinosaur to dodge obstacles and keep yourself busy. LEGO builder Brick Dangerous transformed this iconic game into a LEGO brick set made using 449 pieces!
3. LEGO Ramen Bowl
Made using LEGO bricks, Micdud’s LEGO Ramen Bowl looks super realistic! “The model was designed, as a fully customizable construction, thanks to a wide selection of ingredients,” says LEGO builder Micdud. It includes all of the basics – a “bamboo” roll-out pad, a beautiful “ceramic” bowl made with subtle and intricate details, as well as chopsticks that are concealed in a decorated “paper” wrapping. It also includes a special chirirenge spoon!
4. LEGO Cherry Blossoms
These lovely LEGO Cherry Blossoms are designed to get you ready for Spring! The LEGO build features two buildable cherry blossom twigs that can you mix and match to create some pretty white and pink blooms. You need to build the flowers with the 438 pieces that come with the set, to build two twigs that measure up to 14 inches.
5. LEGO A-frame Cabin
The A-frame cabin is truly an icon in the architecture world and is one of the most appealing home styles since its inception in the 1950s. LEGO user Norton74 captured the beautiful essence of the A-frame cabin with this adorable and captivating LEGO build. It feels amazingly real and features precise detailing inside, with each corner revealing something new and exciting. P
6. LEGO Polaroid SX-70 Fold-Flat Instant Camera
Minibricks Productions converted the Polaroid SX-70 fold-flat instant camera from the 1970s into a LEGO build made using 516 bricks. It is partially functional, but you can’t click any real-time photographs with this camera. LEGO converted the submission into a legit brick set that was slated for release on January 1, 2024.
7. The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. Rex Skull
The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull (76964) is designed to be the first Jurassic World set intended for museum-like display. The 577-piece set consists of a T. Rex skull with an opening jaw, and a stand to display it. The unique build also comes along with an info plaque, an amber piece at the back, and a fossilized footprint.
8. LEGO PS One
Built by LEGO Builder GoofySwan099, this LEGO-based PS One is a tribute to Sony’s first-ever gaming console. We’re unsure how many bricks this build uses, but it features all the bells and whistles you could imagine, including a memory card and controller inputs on the front, an opening CD tray, and RCA ports on the back.
9. LEGO Mineral Display
The LEGO Mineral Display is truly an interesting build as it converts plastic bricks into precious gemstones. The display relies on the geometric nature to mimic the beauty of the crystals forming under the extreme pressure of the earth’s crust. The crystals are created in a myriad variety of shapes and styles and were created by LEGO builder Dario Del Frate.
10. LEGO Ideas Tabletop Air Hockey Kit
The LEGO Ideas Tabletop Air Hockey kit is designed to perfectly capture the fun and joy of slinging a puck from the left to right, as you try to score a goal while protecting your post! There is no air involved in this unique creation, and it is fan-made by LordFamousTulip100 and got almost 100 votes on the global LEGO forum.
Dubbed A Room Around a Tree, this unique residence in South London features an outbuilding designed by the British studio Tikari Works. The studio framed the outbuilding with a latticed timber roof structure and is designed to skillfully weave around a Lebanese cedar tree. The aesthetically pleasing home was created to have a minimal impact on the surrounding natural environment, while also possessing a versatile inner space with a lovely adjoining terrace for the family.
“The core concept of the design is to celebrate the mature cedar tree that is the focal point of the garden whilst creating a flexible space for our client’s growing family,” said Tikari Works director Ty Tikari. “The timber beams are extra deep and stained black to create a meditative internal atmosphere and bring the verdant greens of the garden to the foreground.”
The entire plan and intent behind the design was to build a serene dialogue with the landscape, with the edge of the building subtly wrapping around the tree branches. The edge was also partially bounded by transparent structural glazing which gives an ethereal and other-worldly appeal to the building “The curved form of the project allows the building to engage with the language of the garden as the building edge weaves between the natural features on the site. Internally, this creates a sense of compression and expansion that is used to organize the building functions without the need for physical boundaries,” said Tikari.
Quite interestingly, A Room Around A Tree was constructed using light-handed construction techniques that ensure the vegetation in the area is protected. These techniques included a low-impact “floating” ring beam, and a mini-pile foundation system. One of the motives was that a distance of two meters was to be maintained from the trees on the site, allowing the trees to be protected and undisturbed.
To support and encourage future flexibility, the studio incorporated elements such as integrated custom joinery, an oak kitchenette, a cast-concrete sink, and a mobile storage unit. Off-the-shelf materials such as corrugated cladding, clockwork, and stained timber were utilized to keep the project within budget.
A cluttered desk can really be the worst thing to start your day with! It hampers your productivity and completely bogs down your mind, making it difficult to complete even the simplest of tasks. This is where I find desk organizers and other storage solutions to be ideal. I’ve found that adding a desk organizer to my desk setup can amp up my productivity immensely! An organizer can transform your desk from an utter mess to a neat and tidy space that will essentially boost your productivity. And, we’ve collected a range of functional, practical, and aesthetically pleasing products that will organize your desk completely, while also storing away all your essentials efficiently.
1. Hanging Desk Organizer
Meet the modular and super innovative hanging desk organizer! Workspaces today tend to be ever-evolving, and quite hectic, hence it is important to utilize and organize our precious space in a correct and efficient manner, and this is where the Hanging Desk Organizer comes in!
Why is it noteworthy?
This unique edge-hanging organizer completely destroys the usual organizational norms. It provides a storage and organization solution that is both innovative and effective, allowing users to utilize their desktop real estate in an efficient and effective manner while ensuring all essentials are within arm’s reach.
Hangs off the edge, utilizing a frequently wasted space
Features a modular magnetic system that you can control by yourself
What we dislike
While sturdy, there is a cap to how much weight it can handle before becoming unstable, which could be a bummer
2. Grovemade’s Hardwood Cups and Planters
These cups, planters, and dishes are made the old-school way and are carved from solid maple or walnut. They are quite functional and utilitarian but aesthetically pleasing.
Why is it noteworthy?
The various pieces are hand-sanded and finished with a clear vegetable-based oil that highlights the natural warmth, elegance, and beauty of the wood. The collection includes cups, dishes and planters in a variety of different woods
What we like
Available in a variety of metal and material options, so you can pick and choose the one you want
What we dislike
Aesthetics are a bit unassuming and boring, and could have been worked upon a bit
3. The Hexcal Studio Desktop Organizer
Designed by British company Hexcal, the Hexcal Studio desktop organizer is created to be the ultimate desktop organizer and workspace accessory that you really need.
Why is it noteworthy?
It eliminates clutter, conceals wires, and offers shadowless lighting. It helps create a neat, tidy, and destressing workspace, where wires don’t create clutter, and where multiple screens can be installed to build a cohesive work environment.
What we like
Provides you with a wire-free desk
Equipped with an integrated shadowless light to reduce the strain caused on the eyes due to screen glare and direct lights
What we dislike
Bulky design that will occupy precious real estate on your desk
4. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter
When it comes to desk organization, every inch counts and it is essential to organize our desks in the most efficient and effective manner. And one important office tool in the arena of desk organization is a letter cutter, and we’ve found a cool letter cutter for you!
Why is it noteworthy?
This unique letter cutter reimagines a standard office tool. Not only does it efficiently slice through paper, but it also doubles up as a chic paperweight which ensures there is less clutter on your desk and more style. It elevates and declutters your desk aesthetic!
Precision cut ensures that no messy scraps are left behind
Doubles up as a paperweight, ensuring there is less clutter on your desk
What we dislike
While fantastic for standard envelopes, it is not versatile enough for those bulkier packages or intricate mail, which is inconvenient
5. Miklosi’s Organizer
This conceptual cable organizer is designed to untangle your cords and keep them organized something we deal with almost every day. The designer was inspired to create this product when he noticed that his cords usually get tangled up with lozenges! This inspired him to create a cable organizer that is similar to a pack of lozenges.
Why is it noteworthy?
Besides being inspired by lozenges, at first glance, the organizer looks more like LEGO pieces or bricks! You can place 2 cables on top of each other as if they’re placed in the same row, and there are 3 different types of organizers.
What we like
Three different versions so you can pick the one that suits your cable and space requirements
What we dislike
The organizer seems quite easy to lose and misplace
6. Quick-Access Organizer
In a world where we’re constantly running around, it is easy to lose your essentials, especially your keys. Called the Quick-Access Organizer, this minimal and well-designed organizer is created to perfectly organize all your essentials, without any fear of ever losing them.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Quick-Access Organizer isn’t simply a storage solution, it is a desk revolution. It utilizes magnetic wizardry to ensure that your essentials have an easily accessible space to be stored in. It merges form and functionality, creating an excellent 21st-century design philosophy. Click Here to Buy Now: $69
What we like
Features a rotating mechanism that takes all the guesswork out of storage
It is not just a lid, but also a tray, featuring a unique dual functionality
What we dislike
Those who possess a larger array of items will find this organizer limiting
It can be concerning having magnets around certain electronic devices or cards, hence you need to be selective about what you store
7. Forest Tidy
Dubbed the Forest Tidy, these minimal and solid containers are crafted from rosewood, and they bring a whole new level of organization and neatness to your desk.
Why is it noteworthy?
It segregates your workspace into different categories, hence giving you space for stationery, tech, EDC, cables, and even a dedicated stand for your monitor along with a stowaway space for your keyboard and mouse.
What we like
Available variety of shapes and sizes, tailor-made to your tabletop belongings
Equipped with a dedicated phone stand that lets you dock your phone either in portrait or landscape
What we dislike
Unfortunately, the phone stand doesn’t feature a channel for a cable pass-through, which means it won’t function as a charging stand
8. Cyl
Using the age-old stacking trick, Cyl is a unique desk organizer that frees up all the horizontal space on your desk and uses the vertical space that is often forgotten and ignored.
Why is it noteworthy?
The desk organizer is versatile, so you can place a variety of items within it. You can easily see what’s inside, and quickly retrieve them without having to unstack the ones above.
What we like
You can easily see what’s inside and quickly get them without unstacking
Organizers come in different sizes
What we dislike
No option to close the organizer when not in use
9. Grovemade Note-Taking Kit
Called the Grovemade Note-Taking Kit, this product is designed to help you effortlessly and efficiently capture, process, and store your notes, while ensuring that your notes are neatly placed and organized.
Why is it noteworthy?
This Note-Taking Kit includes a refillable notepad with dot grid paper and a solid metal base, supported by a display rail to hold and accommodate your notes and devices, creating an organized and well-designed working space.
What we like
Ensures that your workdesk is neat, helping you complete your important tasks first
What we dislike
Will consume a substantial amount of precious real estate on your desk
10. Smol Floppy Disk Organizer for Micro SD Cards
Independent artist Trevor Flowers has designed the “Smol Floppy Disk Organizer for Micro SD Cards”, and it is an adorable and quaint replica of the olden golden days. The little organizer can fit on any desk, owing to its near-microscopic size.
Why is it noteworthy?
This little design is perfect for old-school lovers, who collected a lot of floppy discs and kept their entire disc collection in beige old boxes. This is a fun trip down memory lanes for those who love a blast from the past!
What we like
Small compact design that can easily fit anywhere
What we dislike
Limited in supply, unsure whether we can get our hands on them
The small size may make the product super easy to misplace
