Author Archives: Srishti Mitra

Japanese-Inspired Tiny Home Redefines Spaciousness and Light-Filled Living in Micro-Housing

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When it comes to tiny homes, Escape has established its dominance and expertise, and it tends to recreate various variations of its popular and most-loved models. Recently, it created the eONE XL – a rejuvenated take on its One and One XL model. The eONE XL is designed to be a more spacious, free-flowing, and light-filled home in comparison to its predecessors. Based on a double-axle trailer, the eONE XL has a distinguished Japanese-style charred wood exterior, which helps to protect the wood from decay and bugs. It features a length of 30 feet and a width of 8.6 feet, the same as the One XL. But there are a lot of other differences, ensuring that the eONE XL offers an upgraded micr0-living experience.

Designer: Escape

The eONE XL consists of large windows, which allow natural light to stream in freely throughout the day. This creates an interior that is quite light-filled and warm. As the ‘e’ in its name signifies, the home includes all-electric appliances. Besides these additional benefits, the home also offers more storage space and floor space. As you enter the home, you are welcomed by a spacious and well-designed kitchen. It is quite well-equipped for a tiny home. It contains a pantry storage area, fridge/freezer, microwave, an induction cooktop, electric oven, and sink. The kitchen also includes generous cabinetry and a washer/dryer.

The living room is located next to the kitchen, and it seems to be quite spacious. The images don’t show any furniture in the living room though. The bathroom is placed on the opposite end of the home, and it features a flushing toilet, a sink with storage space, as well as a shower and a bathtub – which is something we never get to see in tiny homes. How cool!

The eONE XL tiny home includes two bedrooms, both of which are placed upstairs, and are quite spacious. You can access the master bedroom via a storage-integrated staircase. The staircase is equipped with large windows, offering views as you climb up to the bedrooms. You can enter the second bedroom via a gangway, although this room could also be utilized as a home office.

The post Japanese-Inspired Tiny Home Redefines Spaciousness and Light-Filled Living in Micro-Housing first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 MagSafe-Compatible Accessories to Upgrade Your iPhone Experience

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There’s just something about a MagSafe-compatible product that hits the mark for me! There is a great sense of satisfaction, in my opinion, to have things just stick to your phone. Be it a pair of earphones (maybe that’ll be the next generation of AirPods) or have your phone just conveniently stick to a charging pad – it’s almost like magic. The reintroduction of the MagSafe led to a whole new world of accessories being unleashed. Designers and creatives were racing to create a whole range of products for the repurposed MagSafe. And we’ve been loving every bit of it! From a MagSafe power bank that cools your phone to a Cyberpunk-themed charging station – there’s a MagSafe accessory out there for your every need. And, we’ve curated many products that we truly believe are worth buying and investing in. This army of accessories will truly amp up your Apple experience!

1.The Aulumu M01 4-in-1 Wireless Charging Station

 The Aulumu M01 4-in-1 Wireless Charging Station has a unique cyberpunk-like aesthetic which truly sets this charger aside. It doesn’t feature a straightforward row of circles, instead it alternates their arrangement to create a visually appealing composition that instantly grabs attention. The colors alternate as well, as the white Apple Watch pad is surrounded by black circles for the iPhone and AirPods case. The charging station features the conventional text, lines, and visible screws you’d find in such a tech-centric design language.

2. UPRO Ostand Case

Dubbed the UPRO Ostand case, this innovative device is a winner of the iF Design Award. It upgrades your iPhone’s MagSafe by offering it a whole new bunch of awesome upgrades. You can make your phone stand, hang, or stay safely in your hands as you click pictures, or scroll through Instagram during your work break. At first glance, the Ostand case may not look too impressive, it looks like an ordinary iPhone case, but it features the all too familiar magnetic ring, giving it a noteworthy upgrade.

3. (Re)Classic

If you’re missing Apple’s MagSafe Power Bank, then you may want to get your hands on the (Re)Classic from Native Union. The little device measures .086cm thick, essentially as thick as your iPhone. You can swiftly attach it to your iPhone or any smartphone with the MagSafe sticker. This super cool power bank lets you easily and wirelessly charge your iPhone on the go! It has a slim and compact design, allowing to to seamlessly merge with your iPhone sleek’s profile. You don’t need to waste time handling heavy and uncomfortable power banks.

4. TORRAS MiniMag

Meet the TORRAS MiniMag – a compact MagSafe power bank that you can snap onto the back of your phone, giving it an instant and much-needed battery boost. The power bank is the size of a credit card, and it features a thickness of 0.3 inches. The MiniMag’s compact size and MagSafe compatibility allow it to seamlessly attach to your iPhone, powering it with an extra 5000mAh battery, allowing you to go about your day without the stress of your phone dying down any second.

5. The Elago WS M5 Charging Stand

Say hello to Elago’s WS M5 Charging Stand! This little design serves as a fun and whimsical MagSafe charger, and it resembles the Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP. This charger functions as a stable stand to charge and hold your iPhone. It has a fixed 30-degree angle which is excellent for watching videos or movies, or to utilize the IOS Standby Mode at night. The charging stand also includes a helpful support on the back, so that the charger doesn’t fall down, because of the phone’s weight.

6. Oakywood’s MagSafe iPhone Stand/Charger

Oakywood’s MagSafe iPhone Stand/Charger is truly a thing of beauty. It features a simple form factor, and a dual-shade wood construction, making it an aesthetic product with a design language similar to that found in Japanese and Scandinavian homes. Oakywood’s MagSafe Charger has a Japandi-like aesthetic, featuring an ethos focused on cleanliness and minimalism, without any clutter and materialism. This classy product adds a sense of rustic beauty to your workdesk, using natural materials like Oak and Walnut wood.

7. Ice Speed Freezemat Magsafe Wireless Charger

Dubbed the “Ice Speed Freezemat MagSafe Wireless Charger”, this little Apple accessory utilizes an intriguing method to dissipate heat, keeping the insides of your smartphone cool and at an optimum temperature during gaming or fast charging rituals. The charger is made from an aviation-grade cooling material, and it has a rather interesting cooling mechanism that draws inspiration from the way the human body sweats to dissipate heat.

8. Apple MagSafe Origami Grip Stand

If you’re looking for a unique MagSafe stand, then you need to get your hands on the Apple MagSafe Grip Stand! Inspired by the Japanese art of paper folding, you can fold this stand flat, and vice versa, without the hassle of assembling and disassembling it. This one-of-a-kind accessory is thin and lightweight, and sized like a credit card, making it easy to attach to your phone, and store it in your pocket, without it looking super weird or awkward!

Click Here to Buy Now: $45.00

9. Snapods

Designed by Scendo, the Snapods are an innovative pair of TWS Earbuds that come in a flat case that you can snap onto the back of your iPhone! The earbuds play on the MagSafe feature, letting you carry your earphones wherever you go. You simply need to snap them to the back of your phone, and you have a pair of easy-to-carry and easy-to-store earbuds that you surely won’t lose again. The case has a slim and flat wedge-shaped profile which makes it easy to place in your pocket, it doesn’t look bumpy or awkward. The case doesn’t simply store your earphones, it also charges them!

10. Shin & Han’s MagSafe Accessory

Are you someone who’s constantly on their phone, your face glued to the screen, and you have a hard time pulling away from it? Well, then you may want to get your hands on this unique MagSafe-compatible accessory. This innovative accessory is created to get over your digital addiction, ensuring you spend less time on your phone. You can easily attach the accessory to the back of your phone, and it features a real clock with a single-hour hand to ensure you are aware of the passing time. This little feature prevents you from spending too much time on your phone. You can also use it to hold your cards and quick cash!

The post Top 10 MagSafe-Compatible Accessories to Upgrade Your iPhone Experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sustainable Seating: 10 Best Eco-Friendly Chairs & Stools To Enhance Your Home Aesthetics

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We’ve spent the past 4 years redeeming our careless mistakes of the past and living more consciously and sustainably. We cannot ignore the needs of our planet anymore, we need to consider the environment, and what better way to start doing that than from our own homes? Sustainable chairs and stools are taking the design industry by storm, they’re a step towards making our homes and our daily lives more eco-friendly and sustainable. They’re an attempt to cast aside toxic materials, and instead, add furniture designs to our home that won’t rot away on Earth for years once we’re done with them. We’ve curated a collection of furniture products created from cork, 3D printing, and even coffee-based waste! The options are endless, and the end result is the same – a greener, healthier, and happier Mother Earth!

1. Tie Stool

Called the Tie Stool, this lovely minimalist stool is crafted from three bent pieces of plywood that lock into one another effortlessly. It forms a unique tripod form, which is comfortable to sit on. The stool is quite simple and well-designed, crafted using minimal materials which makes the stool stand out.

Why is it noteworthy?

The stool consists of three plywood strips which are split into six parts. These six parts serve as individual parts that are built using high pressure, making the plywood bend and retain its shape. The parts interlock into one another creating a unique and captivating design.

What we like

  • Has a convenient stackable form
  • Can be flat-packed and shipped to customers with ease

What we dislike

  • Since it features a compressed design, it requires a tabletop to add more space to the stool

2. Tejo

Dubbed Tejo, this modular seating system by Paul Crofts is designed for the furniture brand Isomi. The seating collection is “reconfigurable, recyclable, and renewable” and it can be utilized as a bench, a single sofa, or even a double back-to-back sofa. Its modular nature makes it a great fit for modern homes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Tejo collection is upholstered with natural wool, hemp, or flax – making it an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fabrics. The base is made using recycled cork which was salvaged from the production process of wine stoppers – making it a wholly sustainable furniture design.

What we like

  • The cork used to build Tejo is sustainably grown
  • Works well in different commercial spaces

What we dislike

  • It is a space-consuming design, not well-suited for smaller spaces

3. Drum Stool

Called the Drum Stool, this minimal and sustainable stool resembles a little wine cork when you first look at it. But as you dive in deeper, you realize the stool has quite a bit to offer. Made using cork and wood, the stool is pretty sturdy and also eco-friendly.

Why is it noteworthy?

Cork and wood were selected to build the wood, rating it pretty high on sustainability. The seat was built using cork, while wood was used to build the legs, creating a sustainable and eco-friendly seating solution, that will integrate well with modern contemporary homes.

What we like

  • Features a round trimmed surface which gives it a playful shape
  • Serves as a cohesive and sturdy furniture piece

What we dislike

  • The cork seat is trimmed and compact and doesn’t seem very comfortable to sit on for long hours

4. Hemp & Eelgrass Chair

These plant-based chairs by Norman Copenhagen and Foersom & Hiort-Lorenzen were launched at Stockholm Design Week. This collection consists of two unique chairs – one is built from hemp, and one is built from a combination of hemp and eelgrass.

Why is it noteworthy?

Hemp is a kind of cannabis plant, and eelgrass resembles seaweed. The materials make for great alternatives to injection-molded plastic, and it results in the formation of a shell chair accentuated by powder-coated steel legs.

What we like

  • The material used is recyclable and is an innovative mix of two plants

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically the chair isn’t very pleasing and could be an eyesore in homes if not paired properly with the decor

5. Vis-à-vis and Rendez-vous

If you’re looking for sustainable seating solutions – why must you restrict that choice to your living room and bedroom only? Designed by Italian bathroom brand Agape, this seating collection for your bathroom is made from recycled cork. The pieces are comfy and also quite visually pleasing.

Why is it noteworthy?

The first seating design is called Vis-à-vis, and it is essentially a light and sturdy stool that functions as a tiny side table. The second seating solution is Rendez-vous and it is a bench that is intended to be an extensive seating option for bathroom users.

What we like

  • Built from recycled cork
  • Both pieces are quite sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing

What we dislike

  • They’re not great seating options for bathrooms with a smaller footprint

6. Ringos Chair

Called the Ringos Chair, this portable and transportable design is the perfect mix of functionality, convenience, and sustainability. The chair is made using recycled plastic. The designer transformed recycled plastic into a minimal and portable chair design, which is an excellent culmination of modern aesthetics and ergonomics.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Ringos Chair stores a foldable companion chair within its lightweight and compact form. You can pull out the removable chair, and you have another stable and sturdy seating option. There is a hidden locking system tucked away at the junction of the seats and legs.

What we like

  • Portable furniture design that can be easily moved around
  • An excellent option for digital nomads

What we dislike

  • It is currently a conceptual design, so we are unsure how well it will translate into a tangible product

7. OTO Chair

Dubbed the OTO Chair, this unique chair is designed to be a “manifesto for circular design”. Created by Alessandro Stabile and Martinelli Venezia, it is a recycled plastic chair which is focused on full sustainability, in both material choices and the supple chain, as a complete whole.

Why is it noteworthy?

The OTO chair features a minimal and clean form, and it is available in a bunch of fun colors – onyx, fog, mustard, coral, forest, and eucalyptus. You can pick the color the perfectly suits your personality and interior decor style.

What we like

  • The production of each OTO chair removes almost 500 grams of plastic from the sea

What we dislike

  • Its hard, flat surfaces look a little too rigid for comfort, doesn’t seem comfy for long periods of sitting

8. Bend Chair

The Bend Chair is designed by the Thai design brand Waste is More. Crafted using coffee-based waste, recycled plastic, and wood, the Bend Chair looks like it is made from chocolate! The chair is minimalist and simple and made using More’s signature PlasCoff materials.

Why is it noteworthy?

The material is created by merging recycled plastic with waste from coffee bean processing. It is a sustainable design, and what makes it even more unique is that the deeper the shade is, the higher the content of coffee waste in the chair.

What we like

  • Constructed using a locally sourced rubber tree timber and coffee-based waste
  • It is the ultimate mix of ergonomics, sustainability, functionality and good looks

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics are a bit unassuming and simple but could have been worked upon

9. Stump Recycled Stool

Designed by Derlot, the Stump Recycled stool is made from 80% recycled post-industrial plastic LPDE. Visually the stool is quite colorful and exciting it looks at, and the fact that it is sustainable, simply adds more brownie points. It maintains the same structure as the original Stump stool.

Why is it noteworthy?

The new and revamped version of the recycled Stump stool has a terrazzo-like design which imparts the furniture piece with a colored and cool look. It has a kaleidoscope-like finish, which shows us how recycled materials can be used in new and refreshing ways.

What we like

  • Offers a new and fresh take on how recycled materials can be utilized

What we dislike

  • The stool is quite small and doesn’t look too comfy to sit on for long

10. Fuld

Dubbed Fuld, this nesting chair by Herman Miller is a unique furniture design with a sustainable personality. It is designed to reconfigure your workspace in an efficient manner, without reducing the focus on sleekness, style, and minimalism – traits that are typical to all Herman Miller designs.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Fuld has a revolutionary one-piece construction defined by an inverted Y shape, which ensures that water wastage is reduced during the production process. The back is elastic, allowing you to sit comfortably for hours on end.

What we like

  • Crafted from 50 percent post-consumer recycled content

What we dislike

  • There isn’t much head support if you’re quite tall, so not a very inclusive design

The post Sustainable Seating: 10 Best Eco-Friendly Chairs & Stools To Enhance Your Home Aesthetics first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Orb At Google’s Charleston East Campus Offers A Moment Of ‘Productive Distraction’

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Dubbed the Orb, this fascinating structure was designed by the computational design experts of New York’s The Very Many. Located in Google’s Charleston East Campus, and perched at the entrance of Google’s Mountain View complex in California, the structure is designed to be a truly captivating junction, where you witness a convergence of public and private spaces. The Orb has a height of 10 meters, and it features an impressive curved shape that instantly grabs your attention. It is built using a lightweight aluminum shell, with an elegant white shade. The structure features sophisticated folds and intricate perforations which create a mesmerizing play of light and shadows.

Designer: The Very Many

The Orb was constructed during the pandemic, and there were several issues that needed to be dealt with. The ‘puzzle structure’ is made up of delicate pieces which were laser cut and powder coated in Europe, and then shipped to California. Even though there were certain logistical issues, the Orb was built perfectly according to the vision the team had in mind. The Orb was placed in the open plaza, and it intends to offer a moment of ” productive distraction”.

The Orb serves as a place of rest from the fast-paced hectic world we live in. It allows visitors to slow down, and relax for a minute, putting aside their devices and gadgets. The interior of the orb features interesting surfaces and a non-linear environment which distract the visitors from their phones and encourage them to gaze at the detailed work.

The Orb was also described as a “visual wandering” by the studio. It is a fascinating challenge that encourages the viewer to understand and dive into an unfamiliar yet super interesting world. As visitors revisit the Orb, they notice newer details and refreshing perspectives, which builds a sense of wonder in them. The mesmerizing building shows how art and design can be utilized to inspire onlookers, captivating them, and helping them disconnect from technology. Placed in Google’s Charleston East Campus, the Orb elevates the space by adding elegance, a creative touch, and intricate beauty to it.

The post The Orb At Google’s Charleston East Campus Offers A Moment Of ‘Productive Distraction’ first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Electric Motorbikes That Accelerate Your Eco-Friendly Adventure

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Electric motorbikes get the heart of almost every automotive lover thumping – because they’re menacing and yet sustainable beasts. They’re powerful, super-fast, and not to mention environment-friendly as well. The last point is a huge bonus in today’s world, as living a more sustainable and conscious life has become imperative. Curbing fuel consumption, and reducing automotive emissions has become critical, and e-motorbikes are an environment-friendly option, encouraging these practices. So, we’ve curated a collection of jaw-dropping e-motorbikes that not only take good care of Mother Earth but also satisfy your need for speed with their menacing designs!

1. Baxley Moto

Called the Baxley Moto, this ultra-futuristic electric motorbike by Shane Baxley has a street-legal aesthetic amped by spokeless wheels. It features a hunched-forward riding position, a suspended tail section, treaded wires, and protruding slides, creating a menacing ride for the daredevils who love adventures on the dirt trails. The automotive has a certain balance to it, it doesn’t have a very edgy or contoured look. It features a measured vibe, while also radiating strength.

2. Unitrack Electric All-Terrain Vehicle

Dubbed the Unitrack electric all-terrain vehicle, this menacing ride by Oruga SIA is essentially a three-wheeled motorbike accentuated by three ballooned wheels which are made using the company’s proprietary patent-pending monotrack tech. The design is created to handle “diverse challenging terrains, from hot sand and muddy forests to rocky climbs and snowy landscapes.” The motorbike isn’t still out on the roads, but it is prepping for a release in mid-2025.

3. Arsenale’s Ultrabike

The Aresanale reincarnated their 2×2 Ultrabike in a new and refreshing manner since the previous one failed to be a success. It is designed to be a cross-country off-road adventure bike. It featured balloon tires, and it maintains its electric powertrain DNA using a low-power hybrid gas/electric format. This powers the 2WD system. It features an ultra-long range of more than 200 miles, making it more lightweight now.

4. Porsche 619

The Porsche 619 by Jackson Zhang is designed to be the automotive giant’s first proper electric motorcycle. It features a unique design, drawing inspiration from Porsche’s DNA while also focusing on a fresh start. The goal was to design something minimal, geometry-driven, and yet quite iconic. It is an eclectic beast with a bold and blockish form factor that is quite comfy to sit on and ride around in.

5. Ayra

Dubbed Ayra, this exciting electric bike has the fascinating DNA of a city bike and a performance racer on steroids. It is designed to be a mean lethal legal machine, featuring an aerodynamically tuned build with a dynamic mono-shock swingarm setup at the back. The front of the bike supports the structural integrity of the bike. It has a lowered stance for a sturdier, more reliable, and durable ride setup.

6. Hydra

Say hello to Hydra – an e-bike designed to make a difference. Hydra uses hydrogen fuel cells, putting forward an alternate and experimental solution in comparison to the lithium-ion battery. The fuel cells don’t have any harmful emissions, and they eliminate toxic battery acids which can harm the environment if they’re not thrown away properly. The only by-products are heat and water, making this bike a zero-emission and sustainable bike.

7. WAYRA EV

Meet the WAYRA EV-03 electric cruiser motorcycle which is intended to be a 100 percent no-gimmick concept that will please many riders – whether you’re a cruiser enthusiast, performance lover or an off-roading fanatic. The bike rates high on personality, while respecting the lovely heritage of fat-bikes and cruiser-length bikes. But at the same time, the bike also maintains a minimal and visually attractive modern touch.

8. GYMO-FIT

Dubbed the GYMO-FIT, this conceptual motorbike maintains the typical urban commuter vibes, while also functioning as a sturdy exercise bike. This bike functions as a two-wheeler, and it isn’t designed to sit in a corner in your home. It is the perfect combination of an electric bike with aerobic and anaerobic fitness equipment. The GYMO-FIT features three different modes to select from, and use.

9. MIMIC E-bike

Called the MIMIC e-bike, this menacing electric bike has a powerful look! It looks like a crouching jungle cat, and it was designed by Roman Dolzhenko. The e-bike features a body that looks like armor, and it features a rounded Tron Light Cycle-inspired form, accompanied by rounded elements, and an overall absence of sharp edges or straight lines.

10. Model M

Dubbed the Model M, this conceptual motorcycle by Jan Slapins features an intriguing bad-boy aesthetic. The bike is a vibrant red color, and it is powered by a 204 PS electric motor. The rider can pick between four different driving modes – Race, Cruise, Standard and Eco. The motor is powered by Tesla’s lithium-ion batteries, and they have been positioned on the lower section of the frame. The bike has no transmission and lightweight carbon fiber wheels, and a mono-shock back.

The post Top 10 Electric Motorbikes That Accelerate Your Eco-Friendly Adventure first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Modular Seating Solution Is Made From Recycled Cork Salvaged From Wine Stoppers

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Designed by Paul Crofts, this modular seating system is called Tejo. Crofts designed the Tejo seating collection for the furniture brand Isomi. It is intended to be a “reconfigurable, recyclable, and renewable” modular seating collection that serves as a bench, a single sofa, or even a double back-to-back sofa.

Designer: Paul Crofts for Isomi

The Tejo seat includes curving components that have been filled with natural latex instead of foam. The furniture design is upholstered with natural wool, hemp, or flax instead of synthetic fabrics. It is equipped with a base made from recycled cork which has been salvaged from the production process of wine stoppers. This unique base was created instead of a traditional plywood frame.

“Grown in responsibly managed forests in the Portuguese region of Alentejo – which gives the sofa its name – cork is ideal for use in seating as it is not only soft, tactile, and visually beautiful, but it also regenerates naturally,” said Isomi.

The cork utilized for the Tejo seating solution is sustainably grown, and also a sustainable material option in itself. It ventures into the utilization of cork as a material of choice, while creating a furniture design that has a complementing and soft aesthetic value to it. The Tejo modular furniture design is available in a wide range of colors, and it has been created to work well in different commercial spaces – ranging from retail settings to workplaces and even restaurants.

The Tejo seat can be integrated with different additional elements such as screen dividers, table units, planets, power outlets, and charging ports to create a personalized and customized furniture design. You can add the components that work well for you and your lifestyle, in turn creating a seating system that meets your multiple needs – whether they’re home-oriented or for work. The elegant and refined aesthetics of the seating design allow it to artfully merge with most spaces, giving it a much-appreciated versatility.

The post This Modular Seating Solution Is Made From Recycled Cork Salvaged From Wine Stoppers first appeared on Yanko Design.

Master the Art of Tea-Making: Top 10 Essential Products

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What’s the first thing you need when you wake up in the morning? Is it a cup of tea?! Me too! It’s the boost of energy, dose of motivation, and rush of serotonin that I need every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. We all need our cup of tea. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know is the result of your hard work, something precariously prepared with your personal touch to it. And if you’re someone who’s chasing that feeling, then a unique, innovative, and interactive tea brewer is all you need, and ninety-five percent of the battle is won (the other five percent is you setting aside your laziness and operating the machine)! And this collection of kitchen tools and appliances is designed to make your tea-making and drinking experience effortless and fun!

1. Smart Tea Pot

Calling all tea lovers! You guys need to get your hands on the Smart Tea Pot. This unique connected teapot gives you a chance to brew and prepare your own cup of tea using technology. It prepares a relaxing brew on the basis of the tea you prefer to drink, creating your own choice of brew.

Click Here to Buy Now: $349

Why is it noteworthy?

It has advanced brewing adjustments which you can customize according to the tea you wish to drink. It features a “Golden Drop” rotating infuser which perfectly captures the beauty of Japanese minimalism.

What we like

  • It has a compact size and minimal aesthetics

What we dislike

  • The teapot uses technology for brewing, which can be complicated for some people to use

2. U Soo

Called U Soo, this conceptual tea maker lets you chill and relax. When the tea is being prepared, you can actually smell the tea as it steeps, so it also functions as an aroma diffuser. The machine resembles a coffee machine, or something eccentric straight out of a laboratory.

Why is it noteworthy?

You can witness the entire process – ranging from boiling the water to the steeping of the tea when you pour it into your cup. This whole transparency adds a rather therapeutic and interactive element of the tea machine.

What we like

  • Has an element of transparency which makes the tea maker interactive and interesting

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

3. Ceramic Mug

Called the Ceramic Mug, this elegant little mug is well-crafted and the ideal example of earth meets wood. It combines a symphony of textures to create a lovely treat for your fingers and lips. As you slowly drink from the mug, you experience an enriching sensory stimulation.

Click Here to Buy Now: $60

Why is it noteworthy?

When you drink your tea from the mug, you come into contact with the surface, and this sets a soothing mood for your entire tea-drinking experience. It serves as an engaging design with intriguing contrasts.

What we like

  • The mug is made from quality Japanese ceramics

What we dislike

  • The mug cannot be placed in a microwave, which is quite inconvenient

4. Earth-friendly Stacking Cup

Called the Earth-friendly stacking cup, this refined and minimal cup is designed to save the environment. It is crafted from eco-friendly synthetic materials, which offers the cup a pretty unique texture. This ensures that you have a sensory experience when you drink your tea.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The cup has a lovely texture which makes you think of wood and ceramic. It offers a unique sensory experience in your lips and mouth, while also featuring minimal aesthetics and an eco-friendly practice.

What we like

  • Made from plant-derived biodegradable resin

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically quite common to other cups on the market, nothing to set it apart

5. OTOTO’s Tea Trap

Look at this adorable little tea trap by OTOTO! OTOTO’s Tea Trap puts a whimsical and amusing twist on the art of tea brewing. It’s a refreshing change from the typical metal infusers, and instead, it resembles a carnivorous plant – one that eats tea leaves for breakfast!

Why is it noteworthy?

You fill the Tea Trap’s stomach or mouth with leaves and dunk it in a cup of hot water. The tea infuses through the perforations on the infuser. The Tea Trap also includes an elongated handle which you can use to stir until your tea achieves the perfect color. Once you’re done preparing your tea, the trap spits out the leaves into the bin.

What we like

  • Adds a fun twist to an ordinary design

What we dislike

  • The holes in the trap seem to be too big for loose tea, it can slip out

6. DADO

Called DADO, this minimalist capsule teach machine is a unique conceptual design that looks unlike a typical tea maker. It has a modern twist to it. The kettle portion is inspired by a traditional tea maker, and the entire design has a minimalist ethos which brings a sense of calm to your tea-preparing experience.

Why is it noteworthy?

DADO features a kettle and two cups placed on top of a heating pad, which resembles an induction stovetop. You can fill water in the kettle using the bucket section located at the back. You can preheat the cups that are next to the kettle by simply pressing a button.

What we like

  • Perfectly merges traditional and minimal aesthetics
  • It has different flavors for the tea capsules

What we dislike

  • Disposable capsules with a substantial carbon footprint

7. Bota

Meet Bota – an all-in-one smart tea bottle that lets you brew a cup of hot tea, letting you enjoy your favorite flavors. It has everything you could need to make tea in a single bottle. It holds and boils your water for you at the specific temperature needed for brewing. It also includes a steeping chamber to hold the leaves separately.

Why is it noteworthy?

Bota is extremely easy to clean and ensures a hassle-free cleaning experience. It also keeps your tea hot for about 12 hours. You can drink some hot tea anytime or anywhere, letting you brew a fresh batch whenever you like.

What we like

  • Features a sleek and portable form
  • No complicated buttons, easy-to-use

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically similar to other portable brewers on the market

8. ECLIPSE

Called the ECLIPSE, this portable tea brewing station is an innovative design, completely different from the boring old tea bag. The design features a travel thermos and a French-press-style brewing system and is designed to be easy to use and easy to carry. You can brew two cups or one large of tea.

Why is it noteworthy?

ECLIPSE completely modernizes the tea-making process. It offers the same steps you’d see in a regular tea brewing process but in a new format and form. It is a multi-part travel press that features a measuring cup, brewing teapot, plunger, and a drinking vessel.

What we like

  • Features an easy-to-carry and portable design
  • Equipped with a ceramic coating to pay tribute to the traditional tea-brewing practices

What we dislike

  • There aren’t different color or size options

9. USM-Inspired Kettle

If you’re someone who loves the work of the Swiss modular furniture brand, then you need to check out this USM-inspired kettle. This kettle uses the original aesthetics of the brand, creating a kettle that is circular in design, while the handle is rectangular. The spout has a unique triangle shape.

Why is it noteworthy?

The renders of the kettle display it in various colors, which are also the basic colors of the USM Haller line. There are kettles available in blue, orange, red, yellow, and white, creating a kitchen appliance that is fun, and whimsical while also being wholly functional.

What we like

  • Minimal and clean aesthetics
  • Available in various USM-inspired colors

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

10. TEO Smart Tea Maker

Dubbed the TEO Smart Tea Maker, this sleek and unique design has a coffeemaker feel to it. It features a monochromatic design which allows you to pay focus to the tea extract, by making that portion transparent. The tea maker comprises of three main parts – the water tank, the brewing section, and the glass container.

Why is it noteworthy?

The glass container is transparent and gives the teak maker a really appealing and sleek look. You pour the brewed tea into that section. The tea maker also has a fourth component – which is basically the base and it looks like an induction stove, although it does include lesser buttons.

What we like

  • Brings a peaceful and zen-like sensation to the tea-making process
  • Sleek monochromatic design that will blend well with modern kitchens

What we dislike

  • It is a concept, so we don’t know how well it will work in reality

The post Master the Art of Tea-Making: Top 10 Essential Products first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Accessories Designed To Make Your MacBook More Efficient & Productive

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My MacBook is one of my most beloved belongings. I honestly cannot do without my MacBook, probably because it is one of my most prized possessions! It contains basically everything I hold important in my life – from work documents to memorable pictures from even ten years ago. And not to mention, I do end up spending most of my day, typing away and working on my MacBook. Since it is such an integral part of my daily and work routine, I’m always looking for ways to elevate my MacBook. I love innovative and nifty gadgets that function as the perfect sidekick to my MacBook, helping me boost my daily productivity and efficiency. Here, we’ve curated a few of our favorite MacBook accessories that’ll promise to level up your already awesome and beloved MacBook. From an ingenious wrap to handle your MacBook cables to a Satechi Triple 4K docking station – these are must-have accompaniments to your MacBook, and the best investments of 2024 for Apple lovers!

1. Magic Bar

Named the Magic Bar, this portable Touch Bar can be teamed up with, and used with essentially any Apple peripheral. It is a sleek, seamless, and portable toolbar that is quite similar to the Touch Bar in terms of features and functionality. It also has a pretty recognizable design that aligns horizontally with your keyboard. You can pair up the Magic Bar with your iPhone, to create and use multiple smart home shortcuts.

2. TAIM

Meet TAIM – a cable management solution that can be attached perfectly around a MacBook charger, offering a way to let you wrap the cable around the block, and secure the cable so that it doesn’t get loose, and you can access it whenever you need it. It saves time, ensuring you don’t waste unnecessary minutes managing the cable. You can focus on actually getting tasks at hand done. TAIM helps not only save time but also reduces the frustration experienced when untangling cables.

3. Woolnut’s Sleeves

Woolnut’s beautiful sleeves for the MacBook are made by combining fine vegetable-tanned full-grain Nappa leather with pure natural wool felt. The sleeves are beautiful and bespoke, and offer expansive protection to your expensive equipment, ensuring no irreversible physical damage is caused. The sleeves follow the highest Scandinavian design standards, and the intricately designed sleeves fit the MacBook like a glove.

4. Belkin’s Continuity Camera

Designed by Belkin, and called the Continuity Camera accessory, this all-white circular peripheral can be easily attached to the back of your iPhone using MagSafe. The accessory is made from soft silicone, and you can easily mount it onto your Mac, leaving behind no scratches. Once the accessory is attached to where the webcam is located, the Continuity Camera instantly activates, allowing the iPhone to be used as a webcam. How cool is that?

5. Bluebonnet

Bluebonnet is a leather housing for your MacBook! It provides protection against accidental bumps and scuffs, while also serving as a neat place to store your notebook, papers, and pen. The case frees your hands while holding everything you may need for a meeting or to work in a coffee shop. The svelte sleeve has a leather construction which provides your MacBook with an elegant and professional-looking upgrade. It is also available in multiple colors.

6. Triple 4K Docking Station

Dubbed the Triple 4K Docking Station, this innovative accessory smartly expands the limitations of your MacBook. The dock makes for an excellent fit for the M1 which has a single monitor, or even the M2 which can be extended to two screens. The docking station can extend to three extra displays, and it offers a 4K HDMI port at 60Hz, a pair of HDMI slots or even the DisplayPort outputs, creating a complete system.

7. FLIKK Laptop Stand & Sleeve

FLIKK Laptop Stand by Jexter Lim

Meet the FLIKK laptop stand and sleeve which is designed to overcome the drawbacks of traditional laptop stands. Typical laptop stands don’t offer the needed elevation and viewing angles, and this is where the FLIKK laptop stand and sleeve swoops in. It provides you with the desired viewing angle to create a comfortable and supportive working regime anytime and anywhere. It also transforms into a laptop sleeve to store your laptop as you move around.

8. HybridDrive

Say hello to the HybridDrive – which is the perfect combination of an external hard drive and a USB hub. It is designed to be an all-powerful accessory for your MacBook. It features a two-piece design that can be plugged into each other, and it is compatible with most USB-C devices. It features a multiport on one end, an SSD on another, and a USB-C interface connecting both ends. It seamlessly connects your portable devices and your desktop.

9. iMac

Called the Slim Dock, this accessory by Satechi looks as if it would be released by Apple itself. The sleek design elevates your 24″ M1 iMac with extra ports and extended SSD storage. It features the same machine aluminum outer as the iMac and is also available to purchase in the default silver. You could also go for the anodized blue color to match your blue iMac, creating a complementary pair.

10. SuperTank

Dubbed the SuperTank, this 27,000 mAh portable charger can be powered in sixty minutes, and it is then ready for deployment. It features a dual USB-C PD (100W + 60W), and dual USB-A ports, which can quickly charge your MacBook pros and other devices as well. This is a boon to people who are always on the go since they don’t need to deal with excess wires, multiple power plugs, and compatible sockets – irrespective of where they are.

The post 10 Best Accessories Designed To Make Your MacBook More Efficient & Productive first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Urban Park Max Pushes The Boundaries Of Tiny Home Living, Offering An Apartment-Like Experience

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Designed by TruForm Tiny, and called the Urban Park Max, this tiny home is really not very tiny. It challenges the notion of a tiny home by featuring a length of 38 feet, playfully teetering on the boundary of a tiny home and a full-sized house. The tiny home seems a bit difficult to tow, but its spaciousness does offer a living experience that is very much apartment-esque but on wheels. It is founded on a quad-axle trailer and has a sense of styling that is both contemporary and elegant – inside and out.

Designer: TruForm Tiny

The Urban Park Max features an exterior dominated by metal, with some cedar accenting. Its noticeable size makes it one of the larger North American models out there, however, it certainly isn’t one of the largest. Tri-fold glass doors lead you to the home, and they also open up to the outdoors. Generous glazing allows natural light to stream into the home, creating a lovely light-filled space. You are welcomed into an open-plan living area equipped with a L-shaped sofa. Near the sofa is a dining table, as well as a kitchen equipped with a washer/dryer, oven with a propane-powered three-burner stove, a sink, fridge/freezer, cabinetry, and some shelving.

The bathroom isn’t extravagant, but it features a vanity sink with cabinetry, a flushing toilet, and a shower. The opposite end of the home houses the master bedroom. The bedroom contains a king-sized bed and loads of storage space. Since it is located on the lower level, there is sufficient space to stand upright and move around, without banging your head to the ceiling.

The tiny home also includes a secondary bedroom intended for guests. It is located on the upper floor, and you can access it via a storage-integrated staircase. This bedroom is a conventional loft-style bedroom as seen in tiny homes, marked by a low ceiling and a double bed. There is a separate section that could work well as a home office, reading nook, or even a storage are. The Urban Park Max’s price starts at around US$187,000.

The post The Urban Park Max Pushes The Boundaries Of Tiny Home Living, Offering An Apartment-Like Experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Kitchen Tools To Make Healthy Cooking & Eating An Achievable Goal

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If you’ve been slowly entering the culinary world, and are currently a novice chef 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. If you’re someone who likes quick and easy-to-fix meals, then we’ve curated the perfect collection of kitchen utensils for you. From an Iron Frying Plate that lets you cook and serve meals on it to a portable Japanese rice cooker – these top-notch kitchen products are for you.

1. Iron Frying Plate

Dubbed the Iron Frying Plate, this unique kitchen appliance is exactly what you need to prepare a quick, efficiently cooked and healthy meal. This kitchen tool not only prepares your meals for you, but it also serves it for you as well! This is all due to its handy removable handle.
Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Iron Frying Plate functions as a frying pan and a serving plate, forming a kitchen tool that is not only unique but wholly functional. It allows direct-from-the-pan serving, and it is made using durable materials, which provides a novel new way of cooking.

What we like

  • The handle can be removed, and you can use the plate as a serving platter too

What we dislike

  • Since it is crafted from iron, it is quite heavy and tough to store and operate. You need to handle and store with care

2. Cheat Sheets

Called the Cheat Sheets, these non-stick silicone dividers are called Cheat Sheets, and they’re here to make healthy eating an achievable goal. It is designed to elevate oven cooking, by transforming a single baking tray into a multi-compartment cooking surface. This tool lets you make multiple dishes in one go!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Cheat Sheets segregate a single sheet pan into a multi-portion culinary canvas. It can accommodate six small or three large portions. The sheets are an excellent design for making healthy family meals, or to support your weekly meal planning.

What we like

  • Allows you to cook multiple dishes in one tray
  • You can prepare different portions according to your requirement

What we dislike

  • Since the sheets are made from silicone, they can easily get dirty

3. PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs

Called the PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs, these innovative tongs are shaped like chopsticks! You can utilize them to pick up small pieces of food, helping you with portion control, and ensuring you don’t overeat! You can turn them over on the pan with complete ease like a MasterChef!

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs can be used to prepare healthy lunch boxes or even to eat sushi which is a light and healthy meal. There is really no wrong way to hold and use the utensil.

What we like

  • The tongs are crafted from sustainable SUS821L1 stainless steel, which is procured from scraps and offcuts

What we dislike

  • Difficult to use for larger pieces and cuts, only ideal for smaller food items

4. Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker

Called the Thanko Electric Bento rice cooker, this portable cooker prepares a bowl of warm rice for you in no time. It makes rice an easily available and omnipresent food item irrespective of where you go. It prepares single-serve rice in a quick period of time.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Thanko Electric Bento rice cooker is great for those who travel or want fresh rice at the office instead of takeout or prepacked meals. The rice cooker can prepare 6 ounces of rice in one go. It even comes with a measuring cup for convenience!

What we like

  • Has a portable and easy-to-carry design
  • You can eat the rice from the container, don’t need a separate utensil for it

What we dislike

  • No variety of choices in terms of sizes and colors

5. Playful Palm Grater

Called the Playful Palm Grater, this tiny product will add some practical fun to your kitchen and dining experience. The grater neatly fits into the palm of your hand, and lets you grate fresh garnishes and ingredients into your food, adding a refreshing, clean and gourmet touch to your meals.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The little product resembles a curled piece of paper and is built from a single aluminum alloy play. The grater is available in a bunch of fun colors, and you can pick your favorite one.

What we like

  • Offers a firm grip, and is quite easy to use
  • Makes the act of grating fun and simple

What we dislike

  • Even though we adore its small and convenient size, this limits it from grating large amounts of food

6. SY10

This portable induction cooktop concept lets you prepare healthy meals almost anywhere! It helps you cook safely and smartly while featuring minimal, clean, and subtle aesthetics that remind you of the Braun brand. It is a sleek, lightweight, and portable cooking appliance, which is great for on-the-go situations.

Why is it noteworthy?

The SY10 features a built-in Smart Air Filter with carbon filters to not only eradicate harmful smoke but also odors. It ensures that the air indoors is clean, without making much noise. The filter is placed horizontally on the cooktop, and you can even rotate the filter to make it stand, in case you’re using a tall pot or cookware.

What we like

  • Features some good old-fashioned haptic feedback

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we are unsure how the final product will turn out to be

7. The Panasonic HomeCHEF 7-in-1 Compact Oven

Named the Panasonic HomeCHEF 7-in-1 Compact Oven, this kitchen appliance features Steam and Steam Convection, making it a boon for healthy cooking! These two cooking technique ensure healthier food, as the nutrients are preserved way more in comparison to other cooking methods.

Why is it noteworthy?

The HomeCHEF is an excellent appliance as it reduces the number of cooking appliances you need to prepare your meals. This helps users in preparing healthy meals and keeps them on the right track to a healthier and more conscious life. It isn’t as time-consuming, and is also more efficient!

What we like

  • The Steam and Steam Convection functions preserve more nutrients compared to other cooking methods

What we dislike

  • Larger in size than its siblings, so it is not a very compact design

8. Plate Grater

Named the Plate Grater, this tiny grater is essentially a little plate, and you need to set it on the table to use it. The grater combines the functionality of a plate with the utility of a grater. This allows you to add fresh ingredients and garnishes to your mail, preparing healthier and cleaner meals.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

Why is it noteworthy?

The product has dual-functionality since you can use it as a grater and plate. It is quite aesthetically pleasing, and allows you to add fresh garnishes to your meals.

What we like

  • You can grate fresh ingredients onto your meal, taking it to a gourmet level

What we dislike

  • Since it has dual functionality, it may take users a while to adjust to it and learn to use it

9. Chao

Say hello to Chao – an AI-powered social cooking platform which is created to reduce the hassle of meal planning, and the difficulties we encounter while cooking. Chao is designed to make your daily cooking experience more accessible, easy, and enjoyable as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

Chao uses intelligent machine vision to ensure that all the utensils are used correctly, which is great for new cooks. It also attempts to make cooking a joyful social collaboration, where users can prepare and enjoy meals together.

What we like

  • Allows users from all corners of the globe to create and prepare meals, forming a global culinary community

What we dislike

  • It is currently a concept, so we are unsure how functional and user-friendly it will be in reality

10. STEAMIE

Called STEAMIE, this modern kitchen appliance is designed to introduce steam into mainstream cooking. It helps you prepare healthy meals, which is not only rich in nutrients but also quite delicious. The appliance can be placed on the table, allowing you to prep food anywhere.

Why is it noteworthy?

STEAMIE is equipped with a built-in scale that lets you measure your food before you cook it. It also features a bamboo-wood lid that functions as a cutting board for food prep. You can watch your food being prepared via the frosted-acrylic food bowl, while an intuitive display lets you input and check prep times.

What we like

  • Uses an innovative turbo convection method to steam-cook food

What we dislike

  • It has a bulky form which will occupy precious real estate on your counter or dining table

The post Top 10 Kitchen Tools To Make Healthy Cooking & Eating An Achievable Goal first appeared on Yanko Design.