Author Archives: Srishti Mitra

Top 10 Must-Have Kitchen Tools Every Aspiring Chef Will Love as Gifts

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If you’ve been dipping your toes into the culinary world, and are on a mission to become an accomplished chef who can whip up delicious meals, then you’ve reached the right place. The key to preparing amazing dishes is having a streamlined and efficient cooking process, which can be achieved with the help of the right kitchen appliances and tools. With the perfect kitchen accessories, you can create fantastic meals within no time, and with minimum hassles. And, we’ve curated a collection of unique, innovative, and functional kitchen tools for you. From sheet pan that helps you prepare culinary masterpieces, to a pair of sleek kitchen shears – these are the useful tools you need in your kitchen with you!

1. Cheat Sheets

The Cheat Sheets are ingeniously designed to revolutionize oven cooking. These silicone dividers transform a single baking tray into a versatile multi-compartment cooking surface, enabling the preparation of various dishes simultaneously while maintaining their distinct flavors and cooking requirements.

Click Here to Buy Now: $31

Why is it noteworthy?

These oven-safe, non-stick silicone dividers transform a single sheet pan into a multi-portion culinary canvas, accommodating up to six small or three large portions. Ideal for family meals or weekly meal planning, multiple sets of these dividers offer unparalleled control and efficiency in the kitchen.

What we like

  • Allows cooking multiple dishes simultaneously on one tray
  • Accommodates various portion sizes, suitable for individual or family meals
  • High-quality, food-safe silicone material ensures safety and durability

What we dislike

  • Silicone material tends to attract dust and grease, leading to a sticky surface if not used frequently

2. Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors

The Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors are sleek and innovative kitchen shears that let you cut through food in an easy and efficient manner. These scissors make cutting meat and different kinds of food extremely effortless and smooth.

Click Here to Buy Now: $84 $99 (15% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

The stunning scissors are black in color, and hold an image of power and style, allowing them to occupy an intimidating and impressive position in your kitchen or dining table. You can cut through your steak, veggies, pizza, and more with finesse and functionality.

What we like

  • Equipped with a specially designed curved serrated blade that ensures cutting meat is effortless and safe
  • A multifunctional tool that ensures precise cutting, which is essential for intricate food prep

What we dislike

  • There are no different color options, it is only available in black, which could be boring for some users

3. Iron Frying Plate

Called the Iron Frying Plate, this innovative kitchen design can be used to serve your food or a frying pan with a removable handle. It is a refreshing new way to combine cooking and eating!

Click Here to Buy Now: $62 $69 (10% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

What makes the Iron Frying Plate super cool is that it combines both a frying pan and a serving plate. It is built using durable materials and offers a functional and sophisticated solution to cooking and serving. It introduces a novel and ingenious cooking method, that supports direct-from-the-pan serving, which could allow aspiring chefs to experiment with different cooking techniques and presentation styles.

What we like

  • The wooden handle can be attached and detached as and when needed

What we dislike

  • The frying plate is made from iron, which makes it heavier than traditional frying pans, which can be tough to handle and store in small kitchens

4. Playful Palm Grater

Dubbed the Playful Palm Grater, this whimsical and playful product is created to add some fun and functionality to your kitchen and dining life. It is designed to fit perfectly into the palm of your hand.

Click Here to Buy Now: $22.50 $25 (10% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

The Playful Palm Grater is a charming and functional product that resembles a curled piece of paper. It is made from a single aluminum alloy plate and is available in different color options.

What we like

  • Features a unique and minimal form that provides a strong and firm grip
  • Makes a simple act like grating fun and playful, as well as convenient and efficient

What we dislike

  • Since it is quite small in size, it isn’t the best option to grate large amounts of food

5. Kurenai

The stunning Kurenai kitchen knife is the result of storied tradition, craftsmanship, and sleek modern aesthetics. It is a class apart from the typical kitchen knives we find, which can be attributed to the captivating flame pattern along its sharpened edge.

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique flame pattern is a tribute to the knife’s flame-forged origin, as well as the fiery passion and precision that was channeled to create it. The Kurenai features a distinctive octagonal-shaped wooden handle that fits perfectly in the user’s hand, regardless of the size.

What we like

  • Perfectly merges aesthetics, functionality, and craftsmanship

What we dislike

  • It doesn’t have a ribbed knife option to support multiple cutting styles

6. The Russell Hobs Satisfry Air & Grill Multi-Cooker

Dubbed the Russell Hobs Satisfry Air & Grill Multi-Cooker, this innovative kitchen appliance provides seven cooking settings and is a must-have for aspiring chefs. It helps them create delicious and healthy food quickly and efficiently!

Why is it noteworthy?

This multifunctional appliance offers a myriad range of cooking options – ranging from air frying to roasting, and even slow cooking to searing. It can crisp, brown, and bake with the use of little or even no oil.

What we like

  • It works 76% faster as compared to a conventional oven
  • Supports more uniform cooking, so no part of your food is undercooked or overcooked

What we dislike

  • A bulky appliance that will occupy substantial real estate in your kitchen

7. Elizabat

Named the Elizabat, this adorable little bat scissor by OTOTO is designed to add some fun and flavor to your kitchen. The scissor is quite easy to grip on the inside, as well as the outside.

Why is it noteworthy?

This pair of culinary scissors helps you cut, chop, and slice away at veggies and herbs in the kitchen. It features a clever blade design which also serves as a bottle opener, while the gap between the handles serves as a nut-cracker.

What we like

  • Features an ergonomic profile that is quite comfortable to use

What we dislike

  • The scissor looks quite adorable and can be mistaken for a toy, so it needs to be kept away from children

8. The Fellow Tally Pro Studio Edition Coffee Scale

The Fellow Tally Pro Studio Edition coffee scale is an accurate scale to help you prepare the perfect cup of coffee every morning. It simplifies your morning coffee rep routine and transforms it into a seamless process.

Click Here to Buy Now: $148

Why is it noteworthy?

It is equipped with a brew assist mode wherein you just need to select your coffee-to-water ratio, and it guides you until you hit your goal. It is built from premium Studio Edition materials and features a glass-based, metal touchpoints, and an OLED screen.

What we like

  • Offers a weight mode that measures in grams, ounces, pounds, and milliliters of water, as well as a timer mode that shows timer and weight in grams

What we dislike

  • Only available in black color, there aren’t multiple color options

9. Jamonero

A Barcelona-based designer created a solution to accommodate ham stands in your kitchen. Dubbed Jamonero, the folding ham stand is designed to hold your ham while you slice it.

Why is it noteworthy?

When you don’t need Jamonero, you can fold and tuck it away into a drawer to make space for other kitchen accessories. It is an extremely useful kitchen product for when your dining table or kitchen isn’t large enough.

What we like

  • Has an anti-slip feature that keeps the holder and ham in place
  • Easy to clean and maintain

What we dislike

  • Some users may not be comfortable using wood to hold their meat, and there is no alternative material option for them

10. Reencle

This compact, odor-free, and quiet kitchen appliance is called the Reencle and it utilizes your food waste and puts it to good use. It effectively composts and breaks down food waste into a nutrient-rich fertilizer.

Click Here to Buy Now: $449

Why is it noteworthy?

Reencle is an at-home solution that effectively and efficiently breaks down food, and transforms it into a rich compost that benefits the planet instead of harming it. The compost can be utilized in gardens, indoor planters, and backyards, or can be disposed of as well.

What we like

  • Doesn’t require any setting up or plumbing
  • Features an odor-proof design that ensures bad aromas never enter your home

What we dislike

  • Hefty price tag

The post Top 10 Must-Have Kitchen Tools Every Aspiring Chef Will Love as Gifts first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Raven Is A Sleek All-Black Tiny Home That Supports a Full Off-Grid Flexible Lifestyle

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The Raven is a striking and impressive tiny home designed by Canada’s Rewild Homes. It features an eye-catching all-black finish while boasting off-grid flexibility amped with a solar panel and a generator setup. The interiors of the Raven are beautifully designed, flaunting a U-shaped kitchen, and a cozy loft-based home library. It measures 30 feet in length and is supported by a triple-axle trailer with a sleek metallic finish.

Designer: Rewild Homes

As you enter the tiny home, you are welcomed by the living room, which has a generous amount of space for a sofa, storage cabinet, and some shelving. The home is powered by Philips Hue’s smart lighting, which illuminates the space quite effectively. Adjacent to the living is a U-shaped kitchen which is planned around a central oven with a four-burner propane-powered stove. The kitchen contains a breakfast bar with stool seating, a fridge/freezer, and a sink, as well as a generous amount of cabinetry.

The other end of the home features the bathroom, which is quite large and spacious for a tiny home. The bathroom includes a composting toilet, shower, and sink. There is a washer/dryer as well as some cabinetry in there. The walls have been finished in a lovely Shou Sugi Ban-treated wood, which is the Japanese technique of charring wood to preserve it.

The Raven tiny home is equipped with two lofts, the master bedroom is located in one, and it can be accessed via a storage-integrated staircase. This kind of space is quite commonly seen in tiny homes, and are usually outfitted with a low ceiling, and space for a double bed. The second loft also features a low ceiling, and it can be utilized as a home library. You can access this space via a sliding ladder that can be stowed to one side.

The tiny home is powered via an EcoFlow solar panel array and a battery setup that were added by the owners. These are also accompanied by a dual-fuel generator by EcoFlow, which runs using propane or gasoline, allowing the lights to always be on irrespective of the weather.

The post The Raven Is A Sleek All-Black Tiny Home That Supports a Full Off-Grid Flexible Lifestyle first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 of the Best IKEA-Worthy Desks To Add To Your Work From Home Office

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I spend a substantial amount of my day on my desk, typing away to glory. Most of the time I also end up eating my meals on it! And binge-watching on Netflix as well. And I’m sure that’s the case with most of us, since working from home became the new norm, and our home offices became our new hang-out spots. But having a great desk is important! Simply a ‘good’ desk won’t do either. A great desk helps us work comfortably and effectively. It puts us in the right mindset, helping us achieve our daily productivity goals and checkmark all the tasks on our to-do list! Not only should our desks be clean, but they should also sport an ergonomic and functional design! And good looks are a bonus. And finding a desk that does all of the above can be a Herculean task. But worry not! We’ve curated a collection of innovative, highly functional, and aesthetically pleasing desk designs, that will end your hunt for a great desk once and for all! From a desk chair that swivels around to a modular table that pivots from a work desk to a dining table  – there’s a perfect desk in here for everyone.

1. The Time Table

This unique desk makes the passing of time pretty visible and tangible, as it allows people to have and maintain a personal relationship with the time they invest in projects, activities, and other work.

Why is it noteworthy?

It features a sub-table, and this sub-table moves up and down, changing its elevation as time passes before returning to its base state at the lowest point. Think of it as a time, like a reverse hourglass, that slowly demonstrates the movement of time in a very visual manner.

What we like

  • Allows users to measure, log, and be aware of how much time they’re spending there

What we dislike

  • The desk could also become a bit distracting

2. Float Mini Desk

Office furniture brand Humanscale unveiled the Float Mini desk, which as its name implies is a compact sit-stand desk that can effortlessly fit into any room in your home!

Why is it noteworthy?

Designed to be a miniature version of HumanScale’s Float desk, it is equipped with a small cantilevered work surface, and a single-leg frame that doesn’t occupy much space at all.

What we like

  • Equipped with optional casters and easy-to-move
  • Doesn’t require to be plugged into a power source, hence it can be taken outdoors

What we dislike

  • The desk surface could be small for those who need more space to work

3. The Den Desk

The Den Desk provides you with the building blocks to build your desk just the way you like it! It feels like you’re playing with LEGO.

Why is it noteworthy?

You can start with the most basic setup and then grow your desk by adding other parts or accessories, from monitor mounts to even a cabinet on the side. You can slot in a desktop at an angle, and build a corner desk if you like!

What we like

You can assemble and disassemble the various pieces with relative ease

What we dislike

4. The Hit Desk

Designed by Nahtrang, the Hit desk is a functional and flexible furniture piece that will add an elegant and contemporary touch to your living space. The desk can be used as a workspace, vanity table, or however else its horizontal surface can assist.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Hit desk is inspired by Mediterranean architecture, and its wavy front creates an intriguing play of light and shadow, making it a beautifully designed contemporary desk that would make an excellent addition to your work-from-home office.

What we like

  • Can be customized according to your personal needs

What we dislike

  • Could have been equipped with more storage space

5. The Pallas-Executive Work Station

The Pallas-Executive Work Station is designed to be a replacement for executive workspaces with a utilitarian setup and is designed to be a masterpiece that perfectly merges personal expression and shared values.

Why is it noteworthy?

The exterior of the desk is much like any other ordinary desk, however, the interactive exhibition hall within is the main star attraction. It is a canvas that boasts the essence of the occupant’s personality, aspirations, and interests while maintaining a sense of privacy and exclusivity on the other side.

What we like

  • Features a unique dual-layered design

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we don’t know how well it would translate into an actual product
  • The desk is quite massive and suited for larger offices

6. Sui Desk Chair

Dubbed the Sui Desk Chair, this intriguing chair can transform from a working desk into a casual chair where you can enjoy your favorite book, or sip on a cup of coffee with a little swivel.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s built to be a hybrid and multi-purpose structure. Even when it’s a desk, you still get some freedom of movement (at least in the physical sense) as the design brings you wide and generous angles, letting you have both private and semi-public spaces, depending on which way you want to swivel.

What we like

  • Made using wood that is “grown with respect for the land” and the metal parts that are built from 99% recylable steel

What we dislike

  • Could make your sedentary lifestyle more sedentary if you already have one

7. FTP Desk

This unique table design concept functions as a multi-purpose setup that can transform into something like a puzzle game, wherein different pieces can be fit into different places, depending on what is the needed functionality for the furniture design.

Why is it noteworthy?

Features an orange circle that can be moved around and away from the rest of the table. Moving this shape around and changing its position becomes both a symbol and a ritual that can help your mind shift to a different kind of activity, whichever one you decide to associate with its position.

What we like

  • Modular and shape-changing design that can be used for multiple functionalities

What we dislike

  • Shifting the various modules can be annoying for those who prefer one steady furniture piece

8. Eto Desk

Designed by Australian designer Tom Fereday for the furniture brand King, the Eto desk features minimal angles and integrated smart accessories.

Why is it noteworthy?

The desk is quite sleek and minimal and includes an aluminum frame and a timber veneer top that is available in three finishes – Smoked Oak, American Walnut, and Congo.

What we like

  • Equipped with a slim desk built into the design that provides discreet and easily accessible storage for stationery

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics are a bit simple and unassuming

9. Refold

Refold is a foldable desk built using cardboard. Using a few pieces that can fold down into a relatively thin rectangle, you can have a standing or sitting desk to use.

Why is it noteworthy?

Serves as a more sustainable option for those who do find themselves trying to set up a desk outdoors. That said, it can also be used indoors as well, either to provide a unique aesthetic or to have a space-saving desk that you can assemble and disassemble in just minutes.

What we like

  • Sustainable and flexible design

What we dislike

  • Will be difficult to carry a large canvas with you everywhere, and you may get funny looks from people

10. Buddyhub Desk

Designed by Busetti Garuti Redaelli for Pedrali, the Buddyhub Desk is a cozy-looking round-edged desk equipped with a sound-absorbing fabric panel that is wrapped around the outer edge of the desk.

Why is it noteworthy?

It functions as a private cocoon for employees to work in without being disturbed by other employees. The sound-absorbing fabric panel is available in a range of soft and pastel colors which team up with the rounded and cushy form of the desk to create a furniture design that is soothing, fun, and playful.

What we like

  • Can be customized with a wide range of optional accessories

What we dislike

  • There are similar designs in the market

The post 10 of the Best IKEA-Worthy Desks To Add To Your Work From Home Office first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 De-Stress Gifts for a Calmer Everyday Life and Mindfulness

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Look, I know life can get hectic and work can be super exhausting. Our schedules are quite taxing, and it can take a veritable toll on us, especially on our mental health. Taking care of our well-being has never been more essential, considering how troubling life can get. As much as we tend to pay attention to our physical well-being, it’s time to do the same for our mental health. However, it can be a task to remove some time from your day to actually focus on your well-being, hence having a couple of products to help you seal the deal is always a boon! These are the essentials you need to achieve a mindful and relaxed lifestyle. From a stress-free aroma diffuser to a night lamp that improves your circadian cycle, these are the products you need to relax and unwind.

1. Buda Ball

The Buda Ball is a uniquely designed stress-relief tool that levitates and rotates using magnetic levitation technology. It serves as a visual reminder to stay present and mindful.

Why is it noteworthy?

The ball’s horizontal and vertical levitation creates a soothing, hypnotic visual experience, aiming to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

What we like

  • Unique levitating design that’s visually captivating
  • Enhances relaxation and mindfulness with its hypnotic movement
  • Minimalistic and modern aesthetics suitable for various spaces

What we dislike

  • Requires a stable, uninterrupted power supply for levitation

2. Japanese Lantern Candle

Designed to resemble a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, this Japanese lantern candle features a unique pillar shape and is the perfect item to pamper yourself with on the days you need some de-stressing.

Click Here to Buy Now: $62 $69 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Holiday Sale ends in 24 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Japanese lantern candle provides a contemporary take on an otherwise iconic Japanese design. It features a minimal design, enabling it to merge with modern living spaces, and offers a tranquil and relaxing glow. The calming influence of candlelight and the tranquility of Japanese design merge to build a mindful ambiance.

What we like

  • Made using a patented non-melting wax which imparts the candle with a beautiful translucency
  • Created with detailed craftsmanship

What we dislike

  • There is a risk of fire hazard, considering it is a candle, so it should be used with caution around children and pets

3. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser

This battery-free aroma diffuser is designed to let you take a relaxing breath, without the environment being harmed in any manner. You can harness the power of a single candle with this minimal and serene aroma diffuser which makes use of simple physics and science.

Click Here to Buy Now: $212 $249 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, Holiday Sale ends in 24 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The battery-free aroma diffuser uses something as simple as scent to create a relaxing and peaceful environment. It showcases a smooth return to simplicity and natural elements in the mindfulness experience.

What we like

  • Has a compact and comfortable size that is easy to use
  • Encourages an eco-friendly ethos

4. MOTION ZERO

MOTION ZERO brings the zen-like tranquility and peace of Japanese gardens to your workdesk. It is designed to be a functional art piece that is compact and tiny enough to perfectly fit on your desk.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is built from metal and features a ripped base, three chrome ball bearings, and a shimmering chrome egg. MOTION ZERO tactfully engages your fingers, eyes, and mind, helping you to de-stress and calm down, while also enabling you to focus more and boost your productivity and memory.

What we like

  • Allows you to reach a meditative state without hyper-conventional techniques

What we dislike

  • Will not appeal to those who prefer a more hands-on or natural environment for their meditative activities

5. Harmony Fireplace

A bioethanol brass fireplace that combines modern aesthetics with eco-friendly functionality. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, it represents a chic and sustainable choice for those seeking the warmth of a real fire without the environmental impact.

Click Here to Buy Now: $203 $239 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, Holiday Sale ends in 24 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

Offers a clean, eco-conscious way to enjoy the charm of a real fire.

What we like

  • Contemporary brass design that complements modern interiors
  • Use of bioethanol, aligning with environmental sensibilities
  • Versatility for indoor and outdoor settings
  • The tranquil ambiance created by the flickering flame

What we dislike

  • Heat output is less robust compared to traditional fireplaces
  • Bioethanol, while eco-friendly, can be costly

6. Terrarium Incense Burners

The Terrarium collection revamps how an incense holder looks, and how it can also be used as a decorative item. The incense burners feature a unique sculpted design and are made of blackish concrete.

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique design guides the smoke from the backflow incense cones, making it quite an unusual incense cone, where the plume moves downwards rather than upwards. It comes in three designs, inspired by mountains, trees, and volcanic lakes.

What we like

  • The incense burners feature miniature eco-systems within them, which are inspired by nature

What we dislike

  • They are larger than the typical incense burners and could be difficult to position in your home

7. ASMR Zen Ball

Dubbed the ASMR Zen Ball, this little product fuses natural and engineered elements to provide a calming and sensory experience to users.

Click Here to Buy Now: $89 $99 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Holiday Sale ends in 24 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The ASMR Zen Ball is made from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy, allowing the device to double up as a fidget toy while providing an interactive manner to engage and connect with the natural energy of the earth.

What we like

  • Functions as a fidget toy, while also providing utility for sensory stimulation and aromatherapy when used with essential oils
    Encourages relaxation and mental focus

What we dislike

  • Although it is intended to be placed on a work desk, besides sensory benefits, it has no practical application on a desk

8. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Dubbed the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this relaxation-inducing design not only recreates the smells but also the overall experience of a memorable and captivating outdoor fire.

Click Here to Buy Now: $89 $99 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Holiday Sale ends in 24 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The mini hardwood is collected from branches that would otherwise have been thrown away, and they give off a comforting smoky smell when they are burnt on the stainless steel miniature oven. You simply need to add a few drops of the essential oils extracted from Mt.Hakusan trees, and you’ve got an amazing and authentic outdoor scent,

What we like

  • By adding a piece of solid fuel, you can utilize the stove as a cooking or heating tool

What we dislike

  • Not as straightforward as conventional diffusers

9. BIOS SkyView Wellness Lamp

If you’re someone who doesn’t often get a good night’s sleep and finds themselves feeling sleepy and groggy through the day, then the BIOS SkyView wellness table lamp is the ultimate product for you!

Why is it noteworthy?

This minimal home accessory provides an array of health benefits such as increased alertness, and boosted mood. It promotes a good night’s sleep while strengthening your circadian rhythm and allowing you to feel energized.

What we like

  • Helps you wake up feeling refreshed and alter
  • Utilizes violet-blue light to create calmness to support deep sleep

What we dislike

  • Will occupy a substantial amount of real estate on your bedside table

10. Stress-free Aroma Diffuser

The pretty Stress-free Aroma Diffuser is all you need to sit back and relax, while you’re breathing in an amazing mix of aromatic blends selected to soothe your mind and bring you some peace.

Click Here to Buy Now: $127 $149 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, Holiday Sale ends in 24 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser creates its own gentle breeze, allowing the aroma to softly and evenly disperse wherever you’re sitting, with a porcelain filter soaking up the oil to provide 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
  • Handcrafted porcelain filter from Hida, Japan
  • Intuitive operation with a battery-powered fan

What we dislike

  • The size of the diffuser limits its effectiveness in very large rooms

The post Top 10 De-Stress Gifts for a Calmer Everyday Life and Mindfulness first appeared on Yanko Design.

Unique Wooden Retail Store On A Japanese Island Is Clad In Zinc Panels

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The Japanese architectural studio VUILD recently finished Shodoshima the Gate Lounge, which is intended to be a unique and innovative wooden retail store located on the Shodoshima Island in western Japan. The retail store is designed with the objective to challenge the conventional and typical designer-client relationship, and to create a retail experience that is unlike any other.

Designer: VUILD

The client for the project is involved in olive cultivation and their requirement was for a physical space that supports direct sales and allows them to interact and engage with customers. One of the major challenges faced by the architectural studio was that they needed to create a wooden structure on an island that didn’t have the appropriate drying and processing facilities. They also had to propose the conversion of a plastic greenhouse into a drying machine and needed to use a small CNC processing machine. These steps took some effort to meet fruition. The client was also involved in material procurement and construction, which minimized the carbon footprint within a 5.5 km radius.

The architectural team at VUILD and the contractor partnered up to advise the client on which stones and wood to source for the foundation and also provided guidance in the intricate and meticulous process of peeling, milling, and painting the wood. The entire structure is quite carefully placed around a 1000-year-old olive tree and is covered in a bent zinc panel cladding, with three varied layers of slits for lighting and ventilation. A sustainability engineer also created a three-way spreading form which was inspired by simulations. This form was created to encourage airflow. Precisely and intricately CNC-cut elements were utilized for the accurate assembly of the building and the walls, hence making room for environmental consciousness while using digital fabrication technology.

The interiors of the retail store are quite open and spacious. They are defined by large arch windows which provide access to stunning views of the ocean. The frame artfully exposes the structural beams which have been constructed from local wood, creating an interior that is raw yet sophisticated, with a character and persona of its own.

The post Unique Wooden Retail Store On A Japanese Island Is Clad In Zinc Panels first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 5 Must-Have Wooden Furniture Designs That Deserve To Be In Your Home

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Wood is one of the most preferred materials of choice for furniture designers for ages galore. Wood is a sturdy, functional, and minimal material that adds a sense of zen and style to any living space. It instantly elevates a space, while adding some warm to it. It’s a minimal material that holds a strong personality without any additional frills and tassels. I truly believe a well-crafted piece of wooden furniture can add a magical touch to even the simplest of living spaces. Minimal, clean, and almost always soothing, beautifully designed wooden furniture helps add the ultimate finishing touch to a room, and we’ve curated a few of our favorites for you!

1. Tokyo

Dubbed Tokyo, this ingenious multifunctional design doubles up as a shoe rack and a bench. It combines two furniture pieces into one individual furniture design.

Why is it noteworthy?

What makes Tokyo unique and special is its side leg, which gently and seamlessly curves, subtly embracing the cushion to create a top tray for daily essentials. This functions as a neat spot to store your souvenirs and other knick knacks.

What we like

  • Features a bottom shelf which also serves as a nifty storage space
  • Multifunctional furniture design

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we’re not sure how functional it will be in reality

2. Snowhouse Sofa

Named the Snowhouse Sofa, this intriguing furniture design is for pets and humans alike, and it is what a wooden sofa would look like if it experienced some snowfall, and was coated with it.

Why is it noteworthy?

The wood is covered with cushy white cushions to give the idyllic impression of fallen snow. The edges are rounded, adding a depth of softness to the furniture piece. The ends of the sofa are hollow, with nifty little spaces to store books, magazines, and other miscellaneous items.

What we like

  • The area on top serves as a passage for your cats
  • Integrated with smart storage space

What we dislike

  • The Snowhouse Sofa is currently a concept, so we don’t know how the actual product will turn out to be

3. The Soul Sculpture Bench

Designed by Madrid-based designer Verónica Mar for Les Ateliers Courbet, the Soul Sculpture Bench is a minimalist bench that has a spiritual sensitivity, and is designed to balance and ground the energy of the space it is placed into.

Why is it noteworthy?

Inspired by the recurring spiral patterns that are often seen and found in the universe, in the various galaxies, in the intricate DNA chains, and in the dynamic water currents.

What we like

  • Creates a cohesive connection between nature and design

What we dislike

  • Bulky and space-consuming design

4. Kainchee

Named Kainchee, this innovative chair design looks like a pair of scissors and does full justice to its name.

Why is it noteworthy?

The chair does look like two pairs of scissors, from the bottom half at least. The star feature of the chair is its intertwining and geometrically intriguing form. A band of walnut wood forms the seat of the chair, while subtly interlocking with the ash wood to form the legs of the chair.

What we like

  • It has a unique form and design philosophy which allows it to stand apart from other furniture pieces

What we dislike

  • There are no options for customization

5. The Rook Stool

Named the Rook Stool, this interesting stool design is inspired by pieces of chess and has a lot of similarities to them as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

The designer drew references from the shapes of decorative wooden chess pieces for the Rook Stool. The stool utilizes simple elements that have been placed at unusual but intriguing angles and intersections to create a sculptural appeal.

What we like

  • Inspired and influenced by chess pieces
  • Available in three types of solid wood

What we dislike

  • It doesn’t seem like a comfortable seating option to sit for hours on end

The post Top 5 Must-Have Wooden Furniture Designs That Deserve To Be In Your Home first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Electric Bikes That Fuse Killer Speed & Dashing Good Looks Without Harming The Planet

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There is no automotive lover out there whose heart doesn’t start beating like crazy when they catch sight of a menacing and jaw-dropping bike! Now, make that bike electric, and you have the best of both worlds. They’re powerful, super-fast and not to mention a boon to the environment. And we’ve curated a collection of innovative electric bike designs that will blow your minds. From killer speed to dashing good looks to impenetrable safety standards – every bike in this collection has something fantastic to offer. From a cyberpunk-worthy electric bike to a shape-shifting electric bike – there is something in here for everyone. Enjoy!

1. Ayra

Dubbed the Ayra, this electric bike infuses the DNA of a city bike and a performance racer on steroids, to function as a lethal road legal machine. It features an aerodynamically tuned build with a robust mono-shock swingarm setup on the rear, while the front maintains the structural integrity of the bike while managing to lower the stance for a more sturdy and reliable ride setup.

2. ATHENA

Called the ATHENA, this shape-shifting electric bike features a translucent material that conveys the strength of the outer contour when seen from a distance. ATHENA’s shape-shifting ability is its focal point, as it allows you to raise or lower the whole saddle section. The whole module can be swapped with another one as well!

3. eZpin

This eZpin concept is designed as a retrofuturistic reinterpretation of this aerodynamic custom bike from Bandit9. It is quite similar to the teardrop-shaped 125cc rider but also has a few new traits to boast – an electric powertrain, a retro-inspired body featuring riveted sheet-metal panels, and an ultramodern set of hubless wheels.

4. BMW Motorrad x Nvidia Electric Bike

Meet a BMW Motorrad electric bike powered by NVIDIA guts! The designer has created an NVIDIA-powered architecture for electric motorcycles of the future, where old motorbike parts can be swapped with new ones. Although it does sound quite adventurous, if hypothetically everything does go to plan, we could have an automotive whose scope for modularity, personalization, and upgradability is incomparable to any other.

5. TRISO Electric Motorcycle

The TRISO Electric Motorcycle is an adaptable commuter that is targeted towards the younger crowd – those aged between 20-30. It is designed for them to showcase their passion for driving, while also being conscious and considerate of the planet. It has three riding modes – Eco, Road, and Explore – each one featuring a different shape and riding style.

6. Model-Z

Dubbed the Model-Z, this electric bike is designed for motorbike lovers who want to easily commute between cities without compromising on their riding experience. It is a lightweight bike designed for easy maneuvering in crowded cityscapes. The signature visual elements of the bike are inspired by BMW.

7. Polestar EV

The Polestar EV has an interesting geometric and edgy design. It features a high-riding position that is backed by a high-grade suspension system. The design ranks high in ergonomics and functionality, so the bike’s good looks aren’t simply for visual appeal, but also to provide a defined shape that is practical.

8. Hydra

Say hello to Hydra, an e-bike with a difference! Hydra utilizes an experimental solution – hydrogen fuel cells. The fuel cells eliminate toxic battery acids that can cause damage to the environment if not disposed of correctly. The only by-products of pure hydrogen are heat and water, ensuring that the technology is zero-emission and a sustainable power source.

9. NUPO

Dubbed the NUPO e-sports bike, this two-wheeled bike is edgy, cyberpunkish, and dominating. It is quite similar to the Cybertruck and has simple surfaces rather than complicated ones. It features a cold and calculating light-strip headlight, and silver paint job giving the bike a truly sleek and futuristic appeal.

10. DATbike

The DATbike is an electric conceptual dirt bike designed by Vietnam-based Carota Design. It features an incredibly lean frame, with a heavy battery at the base, and a hollow ‘fuel tank’ that makes for a super interesting silhouette! It comes with a simple yet edgy aesthetic, accentuated further by the use of matte and satin finishes, and the grey and orange colorway.

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Casa GE Is A Low-Energy Home In Spain With A Minimum Footprint But Maximum Functionality & Comfort

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Dubbed Casa GE, this newly built low-energy house in the town of Seva, nestled in the middle of Monstseny Natural Park, north of Barcelona was designed by Alventosa Morell Arquitectes. The home is located on a sloping triangular plot, tucked between two streets, and is designed to be a simple and minimal family home that has minimum energy requirements while maintaining a serene and solid connection to the garden. The home is quite modest and perfect for a close-knit family.

Designer: Alventosa Morell Arquitectes

The studio had a unique strategy for designing the home. They created a strategy with two approaches. At first, they surveyed the site and then selected the best spot to construct the home which was the highest and flattest point. This minimized earthworks and protected the pre-existing trees, while also maximizing the views. They also developed a brand-new construction system that can support a complete shift in the organization of the internal space, allowing it to transform from an open plan to a more intimate and conventionally designed space. It is a single-story home with a linear plan. The bedroom is connected to an office, and then a living room, kitchen-diner, and terrace.

The main rooms have a stunning view of the garden. They are amped with sliding glass walls which are teamed up with patterned brickwork. A large terrace opens up to the kitchen which is sheltered with an oversailing pitched roof. A simple porch features a solitary column and flat roof, which perfectly contrasts the terrace. The entire house is designed to be simple and low maintenance. The windows on the southern side offer solar heat in the winter while providing shade during the summer season. Skylights and sliding doors offer cross-ventilation during the hotter parts of the year, while excellent insulation enables the house to be heated via a single pellet-burning stove.

Casa GE is a prime example of excellent low-energy construction which is the specialty of the architects – Marc Alventosa and Xavier Morell. The architects make an effort to ensure that all their projects are “socially, economically and environmentally responsible”, and Casa GE is certainly no exception.

The post Casa GE Is A Low-Energy Home In Spain With A Minimum Footprint But Maximum Functionality & Comfort first appeared on Yanko Design.

Floating Bamboo House is designed to withstand rising sea levels in Vietnam

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Called the Floating Bamboo House, this architectural prototype by Vietnamese studio H&P Architects is exactly what it sounds like! The floating home is built from bamboo and is designed to withstand rising sea levels. It has been created with the intention to provide locals who are living in and around the Mekong Delta in Vietnam with a suitable model for climate-resilient housing.

Designer: H&P Architects

“Vietnam is one of the hardest-hit countries in the world by climate change,”  said H&P Architects founder Đoàn Thanh Hà. “Floating Bamboo House is believed to provide a useful alternative for millions of poor households to create a stable and safe accommodation themselves, and adapt to the worst scenario of responding to climate change,” he continued.  The Floating Bamboo House is designed to be a three-compartment home equipped with a square ground floor plan that occupies six by six meters. The home also has a first-floor story in its roof eaves.

The exterior of the Floating Bamboo House is inspired by the vernacular Rông House, which is a traditional and rural Vietnamese building typology amped with a tall and steep thatched roof. The house is built using locally sourced solid-cored bamboo pieces, which have a diameter of three to five centimeters and three or six meters long. The external facade is covered with lightweight bamboo screens, woven bamboo sheets, leaves, and corrugated iron. Plastic drums have been fixated to the underside of the house to allow it to float. A septic tank, water tank, and filter tank have also been attached here.

“Floating Bamboo Houses [could be] connected with each other by floating playing grounds, vegetable-growing rafts [and] fish-raising areas,” the studio said. The home was designed for adaptation. It features a door system that can be opened and closed, to offer shelter and protection from adverse and extreme weather situations. Also, the floor panels on the upper storey can be removed, allowing the structure to be used as a library, classroom, or communal meeting space. H&P Architects believe that in the future multiple floating homes can be built, and formed together to create floating villages.

The post Floating Bamboo House is designed to withstand rising sea levels in Vietnam first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 5 Underrated Smart Kitchen Accessories That Are A Must-Try For An Efficient Kitchen

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After a long and tiring day at work, I really don’t have the energy to deal with complicated and cumbersome kitchen appliances. I need appliances that are quick, efficient, or to be more accurate…Smart! Smart kitchen appliances are a boon in today’s day and age, they do most of the work for you. All you need to do is adjust a few settings on the touchscreen or swipe through a few options on your smartphone – and most of your kitchen chores are done for you. And, we’ve curated a few of our favorite smart kitchen accessories for you that we believe deserve a spot in your kitchen. These innovative accessories are the ingenious sidekicks you need on your cooking adventures!

1. Hoto Kitchen Scale

Designed by Lu Zheng, Hoto is a smart kitchen scale that integrates the perks of smart technology such as accompanied social media channels and interactive control panels.

Click Here to Buy Now: $35

Why is it noteworthy?

The smart kitchen scale is minimally designed and features stainless steel controls, and a polished reflective sheen. It doesn’t include a whole bunch of controls and buttons, and in fact, consolidates every control into one interactive knob.

What we like

  • Sleek and smart design with one knob operating it
  • Allows Hoto users to share recipes using the accompanying social media app

What we dislike

  • Since it allows users to keep track of how much they’re consuming, it could promote an unhealthy lifestyle if not used in a balanced manner

2. BORA x BO Flex Oven

The BORA x BO flex oven is intended to be the ultimate dream smart oven, that automates many parts of the cooking process for you, allowing you to pay more attention to preparing the dish.

Why is it noteworthy?

Cooking is a complicated and multi-step process that can take up a lot of your time, and can often feel overwhelming. The BORA x BO smart steam oven makes the cooking process easier, and more streamlined, taking care of many of the parts that you may have taken for granted.

What we like

  • Features an animated grid right on the screen
  • You can control all the operations via a bright 19-inch touch display on top

What we dislike

  • The BORA x BO flex oven is a massive kitchen appliance and will occupy a substantial amount of space in your kitchen

3. Suvie Kitchen Robot

Meet Suvie – a smart WiFi-enabled countertop multi-zone cooker and refrigerator that transforms four individual meal components – raw proteins, dry starches, fresh veggies, and chef-designed sauces into one delicious restaurant-quality meal.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299

Why is it noteworthy?

Suvie is designed for those people who want healthy meals made from fresh ingredients but don’t have the time to cook them. Suvie is combined with optional meal kits, providing fresh healthy meals for working parents and busy professionals.

What we like

  • Comes with a fully customizable Suvie Smart Meals delivery service
  • Requires minimal clean-up

What we dislike

  • Serves 2-4 adults, so not the best appliance to cater to a dinner party or provide meals for a larger family

4. Super Smart Fridge

The Super Smart Fridge by Rocco co-founders Alyse Borkan and Sam Naparstek is a compact and stylish refrigerator that looks more like a furniture piece than a modern kitchen appliance!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Super Smart Fridge is a mix between a small fridge and a dedicated wine fridge. The good-looking fridge features a modern and contemporary design, which includes a smart exterior paired with a fluted glass door.

What we like

  • Effortlessly merges with the rest of the home decor and furniture in the room, so you can place it in your living room as well

What we dislike

  • Looks more suited to hold wine bottles than food items or containers, so not the most versatile appliance

5. TOKIT Omni Cook

Dubbed the TOKIT Omni Cook, this all-in-one kitchen appliance is the ultimate kitchen assistant you’ve been looking for. It makes meal prep, faster and more efficient, and with an element of fun involved!

Why is it noteworthy?

It is equipped with innovative technology, an automated cooking process, and step-by-step digital recipes, which makes cooking up delicious dishes super easy and simple. It has 11+ built-in culinary modes and can function as 21 cooking appliances.

What we like

  • Features an integrated 7-inch touchscreen display, allowing you to customize and tweak your preferences
  • Compact design that occupies minimum space

What we dislike

  • The numerous culinary modes and functionalities can make the appliance a bit difficult to use and operate

The post Top 5 Underrated Smart Kitchen Accessories That Are A Must-Try For An Efficient Kitchen first appeared on Yanko Design.