Author Archives: Srishti Mitra

10 of the Best Products To Treat & Pamper Your Beloved Pets With

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As much as I love spending time with my own cats, I’m honestly running out of ways to keep them entertained and prevent them from knocking down an item or two in my home, out of sheer boredom. If you’re pretty much in the same precarious situation as me and are always looking for new ways to keep your pet entertained, productive, and happy, then this collection of pet products promises to come to your rescue! From a modular pet-friendly sofa to a pet-friendly console – these product designs will take good care of your pet, and keep them active and content. You can take a little breather, while they wrestle around with these newfound fun products! These are the pet products you need in your home.

1. Quarter Sofa

Dubbed the Quarter Sofa, this modular and pet-friendly sofa is built using wood and fabrics and includes various modules in circular and square shapes. These multiple modules can be assembled and disassembled and moved around to build different configurations.

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique configurations that you can make using the modules serve as a playground for cats! They can move and jump around them, even allowing them to play together, if you have multiple cats.

What we like

  • The modules can be arranged to accommodate different numbers of people
  • The hollow spaces can be utilized to store and display items such as magazines, books, and other tidbits

What we dislike

  • If your cat poops or pees in the hollow spaces, it could be difficult to clean them up

2. ProbaPaws

ProbaPaws is a unique collection of wearables and accessories that were designed by Alex Proba of ProbaHome, and her dog Sam in their studio in Portland, Oregon. The wearables feature Proba’s quintessential design style, while also ensuring that the products are fun and functional!

Why is it noteworthy?

Some of Alex’s signature textiles were used to create the two dog bed styles, three rugs, two blankets, eight bandanas, and a toy in the collection. The products are colorful and quirky, with a whimsical air of fun to them. They are handmade from sustainable materials, so you can be sure that the accessories provided to your pets are of excellent quality.

What we like

  • Some of the products can be used by you and your doggo

What we dislike

3. Tesla Cybertruck Corrugated Cat House

The $13 Tesla Cybertruck Corrugated Cat House went up for sale on the Chinese version of the Tesla website, and it took the internet by storm, as everyone was wondering when Tesla decided to step into the pet product industry.!

Why is it noteworthy?

Measuring 56x41x25cm, the cat tray is inspired by the angular shape of the Tesla’s electric pickup truck. It is said to have a futuristic shape and is embedded with thick corrugated paper.

What we like

  • Can be used as a multifunctional space for your cat
  • It can support up to 15kgs, so can house cats of various breeds and sizes

What we dislike

  • It’s a simple cardboard box, there’s nothing really cyber about it
  • The real functionality and utility of the tray are still unknown, people are confused about whether it’s a cat bed or a litter box

4. The Maeve Pet Protection System

Designed by Tavo, the Maeve Pet Protection System is a system that allows you to seamlessly take your pet from your home to the car, and, finally to the desired location whether it’s a vet appointment or some adventure. It includes a carrier and a vehicle base for the carrier.

Why is it noteworthy?

Tavo utilizes the latest United Nations ECE child restraint standards to provide the highest degree of safety and protection. You can travel peacefully with your pet knowing they are safe and secure.

What we like

  • Provides your pet with the ultimate safety and comfort while traveling

What we dislike

  • We’re not sure how easy to clean the system would be

5. Wooffy Dog House

If you’re in the mood to gift your pet something truly cute and cozy, then you may want to consider the Wooffy Dog House. This luxurious and cozy dog house not only acts as a comfy haven for your pets but also functions as a well-designed piece of home decor for your home.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Wooffy Dog House is built from top-tier plywood and features transparent acrylic doors. Besides providing a resting place for your doggo, it’s an excellent piece of furniture that perfectly merges with the rest of your home decor.

What we like

  • Contemporary design that makes a statement without being too overbearing and loud
  • Caters to a large range of popular breeds

What we dislike

  • Space-consuming design that seems a little difficult to move around

6. The Triangle Toy

Dubbed the Triangle Toy, this unique pet toy entertains your furry friends, while also doubling up as a work of art. This one-of-a-kind pet toy isn’t just about play, it’s also about providing a visual experience that is inspired by the beauty of nature.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Triangle Toy shows how pet products can be made super creative. It functions as a canvas for the motifs of clouds, the sun, and the mountains. The huge mountains are represented by the triangular structure, while the gentle flow of the clouds is shown by the rolling ball.

What we like

  • Seems more like an objet d’art that seamlessly integrates into any space, than a pet toy

What we dislike

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

7. Kanto x Kvadrat Dog Beds

Designed by Finland-based studio Kanto in collaboration with Kvadrat, whose fabrics are found in the world’s most famous and iconic institutions (the MoMA and Guggenheim), these dog beds are truly stylish and elegant.

Why is it noteworthy?

These beds are designed to promote canine well-being, providing them with comfort, without clashing with the surrounding interior design of the home.

What we like

  • The fabrics used to build the bed are soothing and durable
  • The color options complement different interior spaces

What we dislike

  • The beds look like they can easily get dirty or stained

8. Choo Choo Console

Dubbed the “Choo Choo”, this console is a unique creation in the category of pet-friendly furniture. It is a dedicated space crafted from natural materials like wood and cane webbing, which tries to create a solid connection between cats and their human companions.

Why is it noteworthy?

The console brings to mind the image of a bullet train, and it has a contemporary feel to it that also represents a sense of speed and efficiency. It embodies the concept of high-speed transportation with the functionality of a pet-friendly design.

What we like

  • A discreet compartment subtly conceals a litter box for your cat
  • Fuses aesthetics with functionality and practicality

What we dislike

  • Space-consuming design that will occupy a substantial amount of space in your home

9. Evolv Dog Crate

The Evolv Dog Crate is a far cry from the typical dog crates you see, which tend to be quite ugly and utilitarian. However, the Evolv Dog Crate by Diggs is a sleek and good-looking crate that you’ll never want to put away!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Evolv Dog Crate is Diggs’ newest and slimmest dog crate, which also has a super interesting “playpen mode”. The crate features a modular design and is a safe and cozy crate-playpen hybrid that evolves with your doggo as he grows from a puppy to a full-grown dog.

What we like

  • It is highly customizable and can be tailored to add four dual lock doors, and by removing the ceiling hatch to transform it into a playpen

What we dislike

  • Space-consuming + bulky design

10. TAIPEI

Dubbed TAIPEI, this minimal and chique-looking pet collection consists of a diverse range of furniture and accessories that aim to upgrade and improve the everyday lives of pets and their owners, while offering the utmost comfort to your doggos.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Pet Collection includes a diverse range of three furniture pieces and five accessories specifically created for dogs and cats. The furniture piece features modulated beds at the bottom, creating a cozy space for your pets to rest and relax in.

What we like

  • Clever integration not only maximizes available space but also allows pets to feel secure and close to their owners

What we dislike

  • Space-consuming and bulky design, not suitable for smaller homes

The post 10 of the Best Products To Treat & Pamper Your Beloved Pets With first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Electric Bicycles To Adopt Green Urban Commuting In 2024

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Our typical fossil-fuel-consuming means of transportation need to be replaced by greener and more environment-friendly alternatives, and Electric Bicycles are an appealing option! Not only do they curb fuel consumption and reduce automotive emissions, but they’re also a healthy source of exercise for us! I mean, not only do we get to save the Earth from air pollution, but we can also get some intense cardio done. And they’re becoming an increasingly popular option day by day. It’s estimated that the total number of electric bicycles in circulation around the world will be 300 million soon, which is an exponential increase, from 200 million back in 2019. It looks like everyone is slowly and steadily hopping onto the e-bicycle bandwagon! And, we’ve curated a whole range of innovative designs for you that caught our attention!

1. Popup Scooter

Meet the Popup Scooter – a two-wheeled electric bicycle that can be transformed into a kick scooter, or the other way round! The transformative design allows the rider to pick a configuration that suits his or her riding needs. The cycle is equipped with a hydraulic cylinder that allows it to move smoothly and swiftly. The mechanism can lift an adult person, so lifting and lowering the rider’s body shouldn’t be an issue at all.

2. Electric Mobility Bicycle

This Cake bike-inspired electric bicycle takes the hybrid nature of personal commuters to a whole another level. The commuter has a modular nature that makes it ideal for different kinds of users. The bicycle takes inspiration from everyday gadgets, featuring a sleek form without compromising on the bike’s robust aesthetic at all. Although the saddle does have an awkward shape, that may not be comfy for the rider for long durations.

3. Electric Fixie

Designed by Andrey Avgust, the Electric Fixie is a fixed-gear bike with the same working principle of the genre, as well as the added and boosted capability of an electric drive, making riding on inclined roads as easy and simple as riding on level ones. The bike is equipped with traction control and regenerative braking for battery recuperation, and the latter can be controlled via the bike’s handlebar.

4. The ONEBOT-S7

The ONEBOT-S7 features an innovative three-fold structure, unlike the two-step folding design we are all accustomed to. This e-bike is ultra-compact once it is folded, making it super easy to fit into the boot of a car or slide under your workstation. The bicycle can be compressed into the smallest single unit possible, and when folded it only measures 60 cm in height and length, as well as 35 cm in width.

5. The VanMoof Bike

Dubbed the VanMoof bike, this minimal yet robust-looking bike features an amazing red and black colorway. This bike seems to be a custom version of the e-bike company’s Red Dot Award-winning S3 model, and the colorway is designed by Dao-Yi Chow, a New York-born-and-raised designer who co-created the street-savy fashion brand Public School in 2008.

6. IEDEX

Dubbed IEDEX, this electric bicycle is an exploration cycle with a generous amount of storage space to store your camping essentials without being a complete eyesore. The electric bicycle features ad-hoc space to store luggage bugs in the frame itself. The bicycle eliminates the down tube courtesy of the unibody design, unlike conventional bicycle designs.

7. Nireeka Mega eBike

The Nireeka Mega eBike is powered by the 1500W Bafang Ultra mid-drive with a peak torque of 200nm. The impressive vehicle can take you on speeds of up to 38mph and features a removable 840Wh extended battery that can easily help you reach a range of 51 miles on a single charge. It features a full-suspension geometry with 140mm travel on both ends which absorbs bumps.

8. The ENGWE X26 All-Terrain E-Bike

The ENGWE X26 all-terrain e-bike is the e-bike you need to conquer any road and distance! It features a powerful 1000W motor that can push your speed to 31 mph max. That is the maximum power, the e-bike can push out, and it also has a steady and sturdy delivery of 750W output that is greater than the average e-bike’s 500W motors.

9. PXID-A1

Called the PXID-A1, this compact electric bicycle can be folded down to the size of a small suitcase which makes it super easy to carry around. You can easily transport it in the boot, or even carry it to the office floor if your boss allows. The cycle rides on 14-inch tires, while the rear tires derive their power from the onboard electric battery for assistive riding on ascends.

10. Pendler Bike

Named the Pendler bike, this unique e-bike is a nod to the country’s deep cycling culture. It features a U-shaped frame which is essentially a thick structural element. This allows the two-wheeler to have an identifiable silhouette which caters perfectly to your urban riding needs.

The post Top 10 Electric Bicycles To Adopt Green Urban Commuting In 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Diamond ADU Is A Cedar-Clad Home Inspired By Farm Buildings

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Designed by American studio Schwartz and Architecture, this appealing cedar-clad ADU is part of a family estate in Sonoma, which is a historic town nestled in Northern California’s winemaking region. The home is intended to function as “a jumping-off point for a modern wine country design”. The entire property includes a main house, as well as multiple other buildings, each of them pulling in the attention of the onlookers. The ADU is designed to be demure from certain angles, and extremely lively from others.

Designer: Schwartz and Architecture

While designing the ADU, the architects were inspired by the farm structures found in Sonoma Valley, quite a few of which have a dilapidated appearance. “Their original, steeply sloped roofs are now drooping into low-slung structures, peeling apart, allowing in unexpected puddles of natural light, and revealing fragments of their interior framing to the outside elements,” said the team.

The inspiration from the farm structure led the architectural team to build a 1200-square-foot dwelling that includes two volumes consisting of a foyer and a sheltered patio. One of the volumes is shaped like a square, and it includes an open-plan communal space. While the other volume accommodates a bed and a bathroom. The exterior walls have been clad in an Alaskan yellow cedar with a unique weathered finish. The entire structure is built using mostly wood, with a couple of steel beams.

As you enter the ADU, you are welcomed by bright rooms, a neutral color palette, and warm earthly materials that make you feel at home. The flooring and kitchen cabinetry are built using European white oak, while the kitchen countertops are quartzite. The island is clad in the same cedar used in the exterior facades. A section of the roof has been sliced apart to create a linear skylight that spans the area between the public space to the bathroom.

“Neither an unconsidered ‘modern farmhouse’ nor the literal ruins of a de-constructing rural barn, we hope this modern country home feels alive – complete but always in process,” said the team.

The post The Diamond ADU Is A Cedar-Clad Home Inspired By Farm Buildings first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Innovative Stationery Designs You Need To Add To Your Desk In 2024

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What really makes a desk stand out to me is the collection of stationery items placed on top of it (and also the manner in which they are placed). The true value and efficiency of your desk lie in the smart assortment of designs you adorn it with – these are after all the objects that are gonna help you get through your workday, and directly or indirectly affect your productivity. It’s imperative to have a collection that really lets you work easily, efficiently, and effectively. And, we’ve curated a collection of innovative and nifty stationery designs that you must own! From an everlasting all-metal pencil to an eerie desk pen holder – these are the modern stationery designs you need to meet your modern stationery needs.

1. The Note

Dubbed the Note, this compact desk whiteboard enables you to take down notes with complete efficiency. The Note isn’t your everyday ordinary note taker, but it also has a few exciting tricks up its sleeve!

Why is it noteworthy?

This “whiteboard” twists or flips over, giving you twice the space to write down your notes. One side features a dotted grid surface to help with diagrams, while the other side is plain, or they both can have the same designs as well. You can also place sticky notes on it.

What we like

  • Equipped with a multi-purpose vertical screen that you can use to view the time, calendar, and appointments

What we dislike

  • The screen doesn’t support and show videos, a function that may be important in some people’s fields of work

2. Everlasting Metal Pencil

Dubbed the Everlasting Metal Pencil, this Wacom-like style has a tip that doesn’t need any replacing or sharpening. The innovative pencil allows you to focus on the creative process entirely.

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Why is it noteworthy?

The octagonal shaft is made of aluminum and houses a special alloy core. Knowing that, you might think that all it will do is leave heavy grooves on your paper, but your mind might be blown away when it draws like a real pencil without seeing the tip wear down even after dozens of marks.

What we like

  • It has a metal core instead of clay or charcoal, so it wears down slowly, and may actually outlive you

What we dislike

  • The pencil doesn’t smudge or smear like normal graphite, which could be a disadvantage for those who use smudging techniques

3. Grovemade’s Hardwood Cups and Planters

Grovemade’s collection of cups, planters, and dishes is crafted from solid maple or walnut. The containers are functional and efficient while also being extremely good-looking. The containers are made the hard old school way in Grovemade’s Portland OR factory.

Why is it noteworthy?

The attractive and functional pieces are hand-sanded and finished using a clear vegetable-based oil which accentuates the natural warmth, and sheer beauty of the elegant wood. The entire collection includes cups, dishes, and planters in a bunch of different wood. The tall containers are excellent for storing your pencils, pens, scissors, and markers.

What we like

  • Available in various metal and material options so that you can pick and choose

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics are a bit unassuming and boring and could have been worked upon more

4. UFO Desk Pen Holder

Dubbed the UFO Desk Pen Holder, this unique pen holder is designed to hold your pen while suspending it in mid-air, giving the feeling that aliens are going to kidnap your pen! The pen stands completely straight and upright in the holder.

Why is it noteworthy?

The top of the pen holder looks exactly like your stereotypical alien spaceship in the shape of a flying saucer. You could place the USS Enterprise or a Star Destroyer, but the irregular shape would break apart the illusion, and take away from the eerier atmosphere of the design.

What we like

  • Adds a fun + functional element to your workdesk
  • The saucer also provides light, proving to be multifunctional

What we dislike

  • As a single pen holder, it takes up a lot of precious real estate on your desk

5. The KNOB.

Called the KNOB., this minimal and unique pen tray features soft rounded edges that provide your work desk with some personality and character. The tray is designed by Changho Lee and offers your desk a simple yet refreshing twist.

Why is it noteworthy?

The KNOB. pen tray is quite innovative as it is inspired by the knobs you find on a gas burner. The designer was influenced by the language of gas burner knobs, and replicated it in his tray, building a piece of stationery with interesting-looking knobs.

What we like

  • The knobs or multiport radar allow you to adjust the internal space of the pen tray, helping you store and place different kinds of stationery

What we dislike

  • Does not have a chance to accommodate unusually shaped objects, and isn’t a very large tray

6. The Gravity Pen

Dubbed the Gravity Pen, this unique pen puts the center of gravity closer to your fingers, making the pen quite easy to hold, and make agile strokes with. The pen ensures this by having a larger grip than the barrel, providing more area for a super comfy hold.

Why is it noteworthy?

The faceted form of that grip also makes it easier to grip the pen, allowing for a more stable grip as well. It’s the ultimate ergonomic pen design, thanks to a smart application of physics and minimalist design principles.

What we like

  • Ergonomic design that is easy to hold and use
  • Durable and lightweight body

What we dislike

  • Not available in different color options, hence there is a limited choice

7. Grovemade Note-Taking Kit

Called the Grovemade Note-Taking Kit, this product is designed to effortlessly and efficiently capture, process, and store your notes, creating a note-taking process that feels simple, free-flowing, and enjoyable.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Note-Taking Kit essentially consists of a refillable notepad with dot grid paper and a solid metal base, with a display rail to hold and accommodate your notes and devices, creating a vertical organizer that stores your notes until you need them and are ready to use them.

What we like

  • Provides a neat workdesk, that helps you complete the important tasks at hand

What we dislike

  • Occupies a substantial amount of real estate on your desk

8. Wipe

Called Wipe, this innovative whiteboard notebook is a pretty unique one, since it is equipped with its own erase allowing you to write erase and write over things again, and again.

Why is it noteworthy?

Wipe features a personal size that’s a bit smaller than A4 paper. It is a portable size, and you can write on it, take a photo that you could save or send to the cloud, erase it, and write again. It is a fast and simple product that doesn’t need any preparation.

What we like

  • Features a newly developed Mag Force system that merges magnets and rubber bands creating a handle that also functions as a pen holder

What we dislike

  • You will need to utilize a dry-erase or whiteboard pen instead of a permanent marker

9. ONEBOX

This woodworking wonder is called the ONEBOX, and it combines multiple different tools into an intriguing interlocking Jenga-like structure, using the same traditional mortise and tenon jointing technique seen for centuries in large-scale buildings in ancient times.

Why is it noteworthy?

When assembled, the ONEBOX looks just like any ordinary wooden box. Pull the pieces apart and you discover that each piece is, in fact, a stationery tool or fidget toy.

What we like

  • It is meticulously crafted from solid wood, with flawless mortise and tenon joints and built-in magnets

What we dislike

  • The aesthetics are a bit unassuming and boring

10. The Oakywood Wooden Cubic Pot

Designed to be a stylish and elegant addition to your workdesk, the Oakywood Wooden Cubic Pot can easily and efficiently store your stationery, or be used to pot some greenery. It features a cup holder to pot a mini-plant!

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique dual-purpose design of the pot makes it a functional and excellent addition to your desk space. It features a stainless-steel insert to protect the wood from moisture and dirt. The surface of the pot has been coated with eco-wax oil, making it smooth to the touch.

What we like

  • Sustainable + fashionable design
  • Minimal product with maximum functionality

What we dislike

  • The aesthetics are a bit simple and unassuming

The post Top 10 Innovative Stationery Designs You Need To Add To Your Desk In 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Harudot Cafe Features A Curving Form With A Baobab Tree Growing Through It

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Dubbed the Harudot Cafe, this unique-looking structure in the beachside town of Chonburi, Thailand is designed by local studio IDIN Architects. The building is highlighted by gabled forms clad in blackened wood which are curved, and subtly pulled apart, to form a “dynamic and memorable” space for the cafe brand Nana Coffee Roasters, and the owner of the property. The curving form of the cafe was inspired by the owner’s “particular interest in unique plants”.

Designer: IDIN Architects

The Harudot consists of three interconnected buildings which hold a meeting room, kitchen, and toilets. The various rooms have been arranged in a rectilinear form to the north, while the seating area is situated to the south. The southern structures hold circular areas of planting, wherein the gable roofs pull open, allowing natural light to stream in from above. This unique roof opening also allows a large baobab tree to grow!

“The building is separated into smaller masses to make it more human-scale, which established different zones such as the bar, coffee drinking zone, a lounge, a meeting room, and restrooms. The giant gable roof form of each mass is pulled apart at certain parts, allowing the tree to penetrate through a void to the sky creating a semi-outdoor space underneath. It appears as if the seed of the baobab has been planted long before and grew out through the architecture as time passes,” said IDIN Architects.

You are welcomed into the two curving structures via large triangular entrances that accommodate full-height glazing incorporating doors that connect the various external seating areas to the interiors, forming a well-connected and free-flowing space. Although the three forms are distinct and separate on the outside, internally they are connected via large arched openings. The stone floor is marked with flowing lines and embedded text, which builds a serene sense of continuity.

Harudot’s exterior is quite appealing, as it is clad in vertical blackened timber planks that accentuate the cafe’s curving form, which contrasts with the pale timber and black furniture and fittings. The entire identity of the cafe is inspired by Japanese design, which IDIN Architects describes as “humble simplicity with attention to details”.

The post The Harudot Cafe Features A Curving Form With A Baobab Tree Growing Through It first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Most Innovative Designs of 2023: Cabins

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2024 is around the corner, and we’re having a look at some of the exceptional architectural designs we covered in 2023. If you’re searching for a cozy and quaint cabin to get away to and relax, then you’ve reached the right spot. Cabins are by far the best type of vacation I’ve come across. They’re a peaceful and tranquil option to abandon your urban life and woes, and simply unwind in nature. If you’re wondering where to head for your next cabin retreat, then you can refer to this collection of beautiful and super cozy cabins that we’ve gathered. They’re the perfect haven nestled amid nature, providing you a break from your everyday hectic life – and we’ve curated our best cabin designs from 2023 for you!

1. Space of Mind Cabin

Dubbed the Space of Mind cabin, this 100-square-foot prefab cabin was designed by the Finnish architecture studio Studio Puisto during the pandemic. It is an adaptable cabin that can be built almost anywhere and used as a garden office, or an off-grid holiday retreat.

Why is it noteworthy?

What makes the Space of Mind cabin unique is that it is modular, and can be used as a garden office or an off-grid holiday retreat as mentioned earlier. It is a flexible space designed to offer people a home away from home, making them feel comfy no matter what.

What we like

  • It features a modular structure that can be utilized for various functionalities

What we dislike

  • There isn’t any option or alternative to customize the interior of the cabin

2. Kjerringholmen Cabin

Called the Kjerringholmen Cabin, this unique cabin in the Hvaler archipelago occupies 63 square meters and has a cozy and spacious appeal that instantly makes you feel at ease. As you enter the cabin, you are welcomed by an airy and calming vibe that is rarely seen in homes.

Why is it noteworthy?

Kjerringholmen is proof “that large houses don’t necessarily mean more quality of life. In just 63 square meters, with smart planning, it still has plenty of usable space,” said the studio. Although it occupies only 63 square meters, it is a spacious home supported by steel pillars, while being surrounded by a dusky rocky landscape.

What we like

  • The cabin perfectly merges with the natural landscape, which offers a surreal ambiance
  • The cabin is designed to support a smart way of living

What we dislike

  • The home may go unnoticed by birds, and they could crash into it since it merges so well with its surroundings

3. The Romotow

Dubbed the Romotow, this one-of-a-kind trailer features a fixed chassis that supports the rotated closing living unit. The trailer can swivel around at a full 90 degrees to form a fully functioning cabin with an extra outdoor living space.

Why is it noteworthy?

During transit, the 30.5ft Romotow remains closed, however, when it is stationed for overnight camping, the main living unit with panoramic glass windows on both sides can be swiveled, creating two sections – a large deck, and a sleeping/living cabin.

What we like

  • Equipped with a 395W solar panel on the roof which supports an off-grid lifestyle

What we dislike

  • The trailer needs to rotate a complete 90 degrees, and that free space may not always be available, which can be inconvenient

4. Shiship Cabin

Dubbed Shiship, this stunning seasonal cabin is built from a repurposed shipping container. Designed by Repère Boréal, this cabin is located in Quebec, Canada, and the name translates to ‘duck’ in the indigenous Innu language.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cabin is a modern and contemporary version of a wilderness cabin, and it is equipped with space-saving custom-made furniture designs, and other smart features. It is 31 feet in length and 8 feet wide and is clad with durable cedar wood planks, which form a thick frame, and offer the space a natural and contemporary aesthetic.

What we like

  • The kitchen and bed are connected via a built-in wine rack, which also doubles up as a night table, uniting the two space

What we dislike

  • The cabin is a bit cramped, and not well-suited for bigger families

5. The Nest

Called the Nest, this stunning property in Hocking Hills, Ohio is designed to enjoy and experience the natural beauty of the hills. The cabin is quite comfortable and cozy, specifically the living room, which is excellent for movie nights with your family and close friends!

Why is it noteworthy?

The cabin features an outdoor patio with a DIY suspended bed which is made with a recycled trampoline, that is an excellent spot to lounge about in. The Nest features a unique layout that gives the impression that the space is bigger than it is. This makes the cabin stand apart from other tiny homes on the market.

What we like

  • Features a unique and innovative layout that makes it seem much more spacious and airy than it is

What we dislike

  • Not everyone may like the barn-style door since it is quite old-fashioned and doesn’t provide much privacy

6. Hideaway House

Called the Hideaway House, this lovely little home is tucked away amid nature, providing a surreal and secluded cabin that is ideal for a weekend getaway. You can only access the home through a tucked-away road at the base of the mountain, hence making it a bit difficult to reach.

Why is it noteworthy?

Nestled on a 52.7-acre private mountain, the Hideaway House is a blackened timber cabin that is surrounded by lush green ancient forests, creating a living space with a vibrant and enticing connection to nature, making it the perfect fit for a peaceful vacation.

What we like

  • The home has access to stunning views of British Colombia’s Gulf Islands
  • It has a lovely indoor-outdoor connection to nature

What we dislike

  • The home is quite difficult to get to since only a tucked-away road leads to it

7. White Rock Cottage

Dubbed the White Rock Cottage, this stunning elevated cabin is nestled on a forested hillside in Nova Scotia. It is a cozy cabin that is wrapped in corten steel and occupies almost 1500 square feet in a lush green five-acre property in Gaspereau River Valley.

Why is it noteworthy?

This surreal cottage is blessed with views of the valley as if it is neatly perched on a steep incline. You can enter the home via a tight driveway, and a grave footpath, but you may need to climb it slowly, and it can take quite some time to reach.

What we like

  • Functions as a serene space for residents to connect with nature

What we dislike

  • It is an elevated cabin, hence it might be inaccessible for some people with physical disabilities

8. Trakt Forest Hotel

The Trakt Forest Hotel in Småland is a collection of five lovely and cozy suites that are supported by five stilts, which gives the visitors the impression that they’re chilling amongst the tree canopy! It is designed to “put nature in focus”, and the cabin is accompanied by a restaurant and sauna in the complex.

Why is it noteworthy?

While building the cabins, the studio wanted to create minimal disturbance to the surrounding landscape, and hence they positioned the suites on steel columns placed on concrete plinths. The cabins were constructed using locally-grown wood.

What we like

  • Allows you to chill amongst the tree canopy
  • Built using locally sourced wood

What we dislike

  • Deserves a gallery/balcony to improve the experience

9. Casa Monoculo

This stunning contemporary home is called the Casa Monoculo and was designed by Alan Chu. It is nestled above a densely forested area of Eldorado and is elevated above the ground, providing a unique and innovative twist to the concept of treetop living.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is not simply an ordinary treehouse, it is spacious and modern, no different than any of the finely done villas you see today. It provides expansive views of the beautiful surroundings while creating a luxurious living experience.

What we like

  • Provides a luxurious and cozy treetop living experience with a unique twist

What we dislike

  • It doesn’t seem like the house can accommodate a large number of guests, better suited for smaller parties

10. NKN-18 Cabin

Nokken recently introduced the NKN-18 – a cutting-edge and revolutionary 18 sqm that provides versatility in the form of customizable options and accessories.

Why is it noteworthy?

The NKN-18 Cabin by Nokken is created for various configurations and features co-branded bespoke designs. The cabin is designed to be a plug-and-play solution that can meet the diverse needs and requirements of people.

What we like

  • The exterior can survive harsh climatic conditions
  • Robust and durable design

What we dislike

  • A minimal and simple cabin, so not very well-suited for those who prefer more amenities

The post 10 Most Innovative Designs of 2023: Cabins first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Aroma Diffusers & Candles To Treat Yourself To Some Aromatherapy After A Long Day At Work

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If you’re someone who needs a break from the hectic and fast pace of life and needs to indulge in some much-needed me time, then you’re well aware that you need an assortment of accessories to help you achieve this feat. Pampering yourself, and allowing yourself to relax and unwind isn’t a task we can accomplish simply by ourselves. And this is where products like candles and aroma diffusers come into action! All you need is an array of serene candles and calming diffusers to give you some amazing aromatherapy, enabling you to truly relax after a long hard day at work. From a zen-like Japanese lantern candle to a battery-free aroma diffuser – we’ve curated a collection of designs that are all you need to treat yourself to some aromatherapy.

1. Japanese Lantern Candle

This beautiful Japanese lantern candle looks much like a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern. It has a unique pillar shape and is essential for your bedroom or bathroom on the days you need some me-time and pampering.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

It offers a modern take on an iconic Japanese design. Besides offering a relaxing glow, it also features a minimal design which allows it to merge with any modern living space perfectly. It is handcrafted by artisans in Kurashiki, Japan, and displays meticulous craftsmanship.

What we like

  • The wax is non-melting which creates a stunning clarity on the candle

What we dislike

  • You need to be careful while using it around children and pets, as it is a fire hazard

2. Silver Lining Warmer

Meet the Silver Lining Warmer by SUMSEI. This is a unique candle warmer with the added bonus of halogen light to ensure that your room is comfy and calming.

Why is it noteworthy?

The main purpose of the warmer is to diffuse the scent of the paraffin candles as they’re melting from the halogen lamp. But the Silver Lining Warmer also has a halogen lamp that would flicker as you use it to give you a spa-like atmosphere as you enjoy the scents.

What we like

  • Creates a calming spa-like environment in the comfort of your own home

What we dislike

  • It is only available in black and white variants, it would be more fun if they had colorful options to choose from

3. Battery-free aroma diffuser

The battery-free aroma diffusers let you take a relaxing breath to unwind without causing any harm to the environment. Using this battery-free diffuser you can harness the power of a single candle by utilizing simple science and physics

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser doesn’t need batteries or external power sources to operate. It relies on the heat of a single candle to spread calming aromatic scents. It is made using sustainable materials, hence featuring a minimalist and eco-friendly ethos.

What we like

  • Made from recyclable materials
  • Suitable with all kinds of essential oils

What we dislike

  • Since the diffuser lacks electric controls, it is tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma

4. Japanese Cypress Vãs Wood Diffuser

This Japanese Cypress vãs wood diffuser can diffuse your favorite essential oils without any power, batteries, or electricity. You simply need to add in a few drops, and let it work its natural magic!

Why is it noteworthy?

The design is inspired by the Latin word for a vessel which is vās, normally used to hold flowers. The vās itself is handcrafted from the Japanese hinoki cypress tree, giving you, not just a natural oil diffuser but also a decorative object to match your wooden theme if you have one.

What we like

  • Functions as a natural oil diffuser and as a decorative home accent

What we dislike

  • You need to use 100% pure essential oils only, as diluted ones won’t be as aromatic and may damage the wood
  • If you’re gonna use different scents, you need to wait 72 hours for the previous scent to dissipate

5. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

This relaxation-inducing design is called the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, and it recreates the smell, as well as the entire experience of a memorable and mesmerizing outdoor fire.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

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

  • The diffuser can be used as a cooking or heating stool as well, by adding a piece of solid wood

What we dislike

6. Vitruvi Stone Diffuser

The Vitruvi Stone Diffuser is a unique aromatherapy gadget that blends seamlessly with the interiors of your living space. It looks more like a piece of pottery than a home appliance!

Why is it noteworthy?

This pretty aromatherapy diffuser features a high-quality matte ceramic cover which gives it a stunning pottery-like aesthetic. It is available in multiple beautiful colors, so you can pick the one that perfectly matches your home.

What we like

  • Offers 2 modes – 4 hours of continuous diffusion and an 8-hour intermittent setting

What we dislike

  • You have to keep it plugged in the entire time you use it

7. Stress-free Aroma Diffuser

Say hello to the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser which is all you need to sit back and relax while breathing in an excellent mix of aromatic blends that have been selected to soothe your mind and help you unwind.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser creates its 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

What we dislike

  • Looks easily breakable and fragile, so it must be handled with care

8. Gingko Smart Diffuser Lamp

The Gingko Smart Diffuser Lamp features a monolithic form that holds a fragrance diffuser in its upper half, and a nifty and well-designed desk in its lower half.

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser is crafted from a combination of wood, copper, and frosted acrylic glass, giving it an earthy, warm appearance that’s come to become a signature feature across all of Gingko’s products.

What we like

  • A portable little device that you can carry around with ease

What we dislike

  • Some people may not prefer wood as their material of choice for diffusers

9. Focus

Called Focus, this design combines an aroma diffuser and a mood lamp to create an object that reminds you of a scented candle. It is meant to touch your different senses!

Why is it noteworthy?

When Focus is in its unlit mode, it looks like a small wireless speaker, when it is turned on, it helps you focus on the task at hand, while also enabling you to take a break and relax while being mindful.

What we like

  • Allows people to take little breaks and enjoy the present moment

What we dislike

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

10. The Sfumato Candle

Sfumato Candle Details

Concept Sfumato Candle Design

The Sfumato Candle takes the everyday ordinary candle and transforms it into more than a simple object. It makes it beautiful and alluring, while still having the ability to help you destress and relax.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Sfumato Candle throws some architectural inspiration into the design. The results are interesting visual elements, as shown by this unique vessel for scents. The Sfumato Candle is made of cast concrete, so this can be one sturdy home decor. The concrete finish reflects the stone, which is often used in architecture.

What we like

  • Inspired by architecture, hence giving the simple candle a twist

What we dislike

  • Besides its aesthetic, it doesn’t seem to have any other unique value

The post Top 10 Aroma Diffusers & Candles To Treat Yourself To Some Aromatherapy After A Long Day At Work first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Most Innovative Designs Of 2023: Furniture

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The furniture of a home is what truly makes or breaks it. When you pick the right kind of furniture design, you build the essence and soul of a home. And it is essential that the soul of our home reflects our soul. Hence, you need to pick furniture designs that truly and authentically represent your personality, while bringing out the best in your home. And, we’ve curated a collection of innovative, functional, and sophisticated furniture designs that we feel will make an excellent addition to your home. These are our top furniture picks from 2023 – enjoy!

1. The Time Table

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

Why is it noteworthy?

The desk is equipped with a sub-table that moves up and down, and it changes its elevation as time passes, before simply returning to its base state at the lowest point. It is time as a reverse hourglass, in which the movement of time is displayed visually.

What we like

  • Enables 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, especially for those who have trouble concentrating

2. Flow Wall Desk

Dubbed the Flow Wall Desk, this excellent piece of office furniture is designed for offices with space constraints. It is functional and decorative, while also following a sustainable and simple design ideology. When propped against your wall, it looks like an exceptional piece of art, one that instantly catches your attention!

Why is it noteworthy?

When the Flow Wall Desk is stored and folded up it looks like an art piece on your wall owing to its minimalist and intriguing shape. However, when you unfold it, it transforms into a ‘spiraling caterpillar’ from a flat canvas, functioning as a desk where you work, read, and write.

What we like

  • Has a convenient flatpack form that is easy to store away
  • Multifunctional furniture design

What we dislike

  • Folding and unfolding the desk whenever you need to use it means we can’t have a constant, which could be inconvenient for some users

3. Tokyo

Called Tokyo, this ingenious multifunctional design functions as a shoe rack and a bench. It is the combination of two furniture pieces in the form of one individual furniture design.

Why is it noteworthy?

Tokyo is a unique and special furniture piece. It features a side leg that gently and seamlessly curves, softly embracing the cushion to build a top tray for daily essentials. It serves as a cozy and neat spot to store your souvenirs and knick-knacks.

What we like

  • Equipped with a bottom shelf that functions as a nifty storage space

What we dislike

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

4. Bookgroove

This unique furniture design is truly one-of-a-kind as it functions as a bookrack and a table. It has a seamless and well-crafted body that makes it an ideal fit for contemporary homes. Dubbed the Bookgroove, it is a conceptual design that deserves to be converted into a real one.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Bookgrove is circular at first glance, but as you look closer you see it has a J-shaped carving on one side that can accommodate multiple books. It is an unusual way to store books, as they follow the shape of the built-in shelf on the side table.

What we like

  • The top section can accommodate a cup of coffee or a glass of wine
  • It’s a fun + unique way to store your favorite books

What we dislike

  • The books placed at the bottom of the curve can get damaged over time because of the way they are placed
  • Difficult to access books when you want to read them

5. Snowhouse Sofa

Called the Snowhouse Sofa, this interesting furniture is designed for pets and humans alike. If a wooden sofa experienced some snow and was coated with it, it would look like the Snowhouse Sofa!

Why is it noteworthy?

The wooden sofa is covered with cushy white cushions that give it the picturesque impression of fallen snow. The edges of the sofa are rounded, which adds a depth of softness and elegance to the furniture piece. The ends of the sofa are hollow, and marked with little spaces to accommodate books, magazines, and other miscellaneous items.

What we like

  • The upper section functions as a passage for your cats
  • Features smart storage spaces

What we dislike

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

6. Plot Twist Bookshelf

PLOT TWIST Bookshelves

PLOT TWIST Bookshelf Concept

Designed by Deniz Aktay, the Plot Twist Bookshelf features four separate twisted wooden elements that are connected to one another, building a stable and innovative form. The unconventional and mesmerizing design truly captures whoever looks at it!

Why is it noteworthy?

The bookshelf’s design can be accessed from every side. It is oddly satisfying and features curves that are seen in the designer’s other projects. Most of the furniture designs undergo bending and twisting like Aktay’s Wavelet, Tie Stool, and the Pet Table.

What we like

  • Similarly sized books can be easily arranged for a clutter-free look
  • Stable design that stands on its own

What we dislike

  • Space-consuming design, not well-suited for homes with space constraints

7. Alada Folding Desk

The Alada Folding Desk is a nifty and convenient space-saving desk that doubles up as an adorable decorative shelf. You can transform the desk into a display shelf in seconds, and it can hold your favorite souvenirs and potted plants.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Alada desk was designed to cater to the ever-growing need for smart and flexible desk designs for working at home. It is essential to have a transformative and space-saving workspace at home – one that can be stored away when the day ends!

What we like

  • Equipped with hidden storage spaces when folded up

What we dislike

  • Not the best option for people who prefer large and elaborate desks

8. Refold

Dubbed Refold, this foldable desk is made using cardboard. It uses a few pieces that can be folded down into a relatively thin rectangle that can be carried around with you and used as either a standing or sitting desk.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Refold is a sustainable and efficient option for those who want to set up a desk outdoors. It can be used indoors, to function as a space-saving desk that can be assembled and disassembled within a few minutes, or to offer a unique aesthetic.

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

9. 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 a major inconvenience for those who prefer one steady furniture piece

10. KNOT Stool

Called the KNOT Stool, this uniquely designed stool is flat all around and is made up of various layers of wood, which provides the stool with a raw and brutalist aesthetic.

Why is it noteworthy?

The three wooden pieces can be painted in the same or different colors. The decorative webbing strap that wraps around the top of the stool’s legs can also come in complementing or contrasting colors, not to mention being made of different materials.

What we like

  • Adds a whimsical + fun element to your interiors
  • Clean, minimal, and compact design

What we dislike

  • Seems to be designed more for viewing rather than sitting

The post 10 Most Innovative Designs Of 2023: Furniture first appeared on Yanko Design.

Futuristic-looking garden dome functions as an office space, yoga den, and nap spot to sleep under the stars

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A trend that grew ever so popular during the pandemic was “domes’. Sneakily enough, little garden domes started to rise in popularity during the pandemic, since a lot of people felt frustrated working and being cooped up in their homes all day long. Although offices, and the rest of the world, have started to open up now, somehow domes still manage to be a favorite amongst the people. We’re used to garden domes that function as cool home offices, but this garden dome by Hypedome is a home office…but also much more!

Designer: Hypedome

Designed by Hypedome, these garden domes are designed to function as office spaces, calm lounges to relax in, yoga dens, and even additional sleeping quarters if you like to sleep under the stars in the outdoors – without the fear of rain and snow. These geodesic domes were created to make indoor-outdoor living even more accessible, and to provide an indoor-outdoor space that lets you enjoy the beauty of nature without having to deal with its harsh side.

Made from solid polycarbonate panels, the hemispherical garden domes look like glass, but are in fact 200 times more durable and weather-resistant, and UV-protected as well. This provides protection to the furniture and other items placed within the domes. “Our goal was to create durable domes that would not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens but also provide a practical living space that can withstand various weather conditions,” said Hypedome.

The innovative garden domes can be used all year round since you can easily heat them during the winter. And of course, during summer they’ll be a plush little lounge spot to spend your days in, allowing you to soak up the sun, but not too much of it. The garden domes come in three different sizes, with a crystal clear finish as the standard finish. You can also pick mirror, grey, and translucent finish options – they also add a bit of privacy. Hypedome says that the garden domes have a life expectancy of fifteen years, and once they’ve died down, they can be fully recycled, which makes this design worthy of some extra brownie points!

The post Futuristic-looking garden dome functions as an office space, yoga den, and nap spot to sleep under the stars first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Pavilion-Style Pool House In Northern Spain Is Inspired By Japanese Design Philosophy

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This stunning pool house designed by Spanish studio Baldó Arquitectura is called the Godai Pavilion, and it is characterized by a generous use of bamboo and an impressive overhanging roof. The pool house was created for a home located in rural Cantabria, in northern Spain. The structure is heavily inspired by Japanese design and features many of its unique details.

Designer: Baldó Arquitectura

The Godai Pavilion was designed in accordance with the local climate, and to boast the natural materials used to build it. The pool house is built to the south of the site, in turn building an enclosed courtyard garden with other pre-existing buildings on the site. “The pavilion [creates] a dialogue between different architectures, with the pool as a central element and a link between the existing home and the new pavilion,” the studio said.

The name and design of the pool house are inspired by the Japanese philosophy of godai, which is based on the five fundamental elements – fire, earth, water, wind, and space. You can see the concept in the structure’s large roof, and the sheer transparency of the facades, which showcase the surrounding landscape. You can see that the facades of the structure make a slow shift from solid to void, and are covered with bamboo slats. The slats follow the Fibonacci sequence and are designed to offer privacy to the building and control the natural lighting. The pavilion was constructed using bamboo, which brings to mind the image of Japanese-style tatami rooms. The ceilings are also inspired by the art of origami.

The interior of the pavilion is marked by a triple-aspect living space, which leads to a timber deck, where steps take you to the pool. Besides bamboo other materials were also integrated into the pavilion such as cork, local pine, mineral rock wool insulation, and recycled oriented strand board panels.

Various passive design systems for solar and rain protection were also integrated into the structure, for example, a large roof that offers plenty of shade and reduces solar gain. “The local climate takes on a fundamental value, where strong winds, rain, and summer sun become protagonists,” explained the studio.

The post This Pavilion-Style Pool House In Northern Spain Is Inspired By Japanese Design Philosophy first appeared on Yanko Design.