I absolutely loved building detailed and intricate LEGO structures as a child. I could spend hours sitting and creating the little builds, and I still hold those memories dear to my heart. I’m sure most of us have nostalgic and heartwarming memories associated with LEGO blocks from our childhood, as well as the not-so-heartwarming ones of stepping on them with our feet and feeling an insane amount of pain shoot up our legs. But nowadays LEGO is no longer considered child’s play. Master builders and LEGO enthusiasts all over the world have been creating impressive LEGO builds, and we’ve curated a few of our favorites for you!
1. LEGO Popcorn Machine
This charming LEGO Popcorn Machine is built by Dimexart, and created entirely using LEGO blocks! The build brings to mind the image of the iconic popcorn machines you typically see in movie theaters. The machine features a glorious retro-style theme and is built using 955 pieces. Interestingly, even the popcorn is made from LEGO blocks!
2. LEGO A-frame Cabin
The iconic A-frame cabin is one of the most appealing and visually memorable home styles since its inception in the 1950s. And LEGO user Norton74 beautifully captured the essence of the A-frame cabin with this adorable LEGO build. The LEGO cabin feels amazingly real, and features immaculately detailed insides, with every corner revealing something new.
3. The LEGO Ideas Tabletop Air Hockey
The LEGO Ideas Tabletop Air Hockey kit perfectly captures the fun and joy of slinging a puck from the left to right, as you attempt to score a goal while protecting your own post. There is no air involved in this build, and it is fan-made by LordFamousTulip100 and has garnered nearly 1000 votes on the global LEGO forum.
4. LEGO Miller’s Planet Scene
This iconic Miller’s Planet scene from the Interstellar movie was recreated by LEGO builder Minibrick Productions, and it features the ranger aircraft, astronauts Cooper and Brad, and the shapeshifting robots TARS and Case. Both McConaughey and Hathaway come outfitted in their space suits, while the robots have repositionable arms that let them walk like humans.
5. The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull
The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull (76964) is designed to be the first Jurassic World set intended for museum-like display. The 577-piece set consists of a T. Rex skull with an opening jaw, and a stand to display it. The unique build also comes along with an info plaque, an amber piece at the back, and a fossilized footprint.
If you’re a pet parent like me, then you know how important it is to keep our pet babies happy and content. For most of us, our pets aren’t simply pets! They’re our children and babies we consider our own blood. We take care of them the way we would take care of our own kids, and leave no stone unturned to ensure they are happy, healthy, and safe. If you’re looking for a new and improved way to take better care of your pet then you may want to look into the ProbaPaws collection by Alex Proba.
Designed by Alex Proba of ProbaHome, and her dog Sam in their studio in Portland, Oregon, ProbaPaws is a collection of wearables and accessories that feature Proba’s quintessential design style, while ensuring the products are still fun and functional. Proba partnered up with other creators such as Blink, Sophie Lou Jacobsen, and Marrow Fine to add to the collection. Some of the products in the collection can be used by you and your doggo!
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.
Sophie Lou Jacobson has designed a bowl with her popular wavy glass effect, creating fun bowls for your pet’s food and water. Since the bowls are quite aesthetic and versatile, they can be used by you as well. So you can get a matching set allowing you and your pet to eat your meals together, and spend some quality time. The bowl is available in three pretty color options – amber, teal, and lavender. Blink also added to the collection by designing two dog tags: Ear and Paw. Both are crafted from hand-casted glass in Japan and can be created with your pet’s number and your phone number. You can also wear the tags as charms!
Designed by Antony Gibbon, the Tapered House is an innovative and elaborate new addition to his Inhabit series. The home is another vivid creation by Gibbon, which follows his design philosophy that centers around pushing the boundaries of architecture and laying down a harmonious and serene connection with nature. The other homes in the series include the Repitilia House and Loch Eight, and the Tapered House continues the unique design language seen in the other structures.
The Tapered House is settled along the shores of a lake and is surrounded by calming woods. The house is designed to be versatile and perfectly merges with its surrounding natural environment. Since it features raised stilts, you can place the house on the edge of a lake, river, pond, or any sloped terrain. This subtle elevation enables the Tapered House to effortlessly merge with the various contours and curves of the land while ensuring that is it well-settled on the ground. It is a prime specimen of form meets functionality.
The Tapered House is a spacious home while covering a footprint of 110 square meters. It includes two bedrooms. The ground floor of the house occupies eighty-one square meters, and it features a reception area, lounge, kitchen, one of the bedrooms, and a shower/washroom. The home also includes outdoor terraces that are located at the front and the rear of the property. The second floor, on the other hand, occupies twenty-nine square meters and holds a large double bedroom, office, and a built-in storage space.
The exterior of the home is clad in panels of various timber finishes. The timber finishes add a sense of warmth and zen to the structure while allowing the project to have an element of customization, which enables it to be adapted to different locations. All in all, the Tapered House is a modern and chic home amped with well-designed amenities, and customization options, allowing it to be adapted to the personal needs and requirements of various users.
While working in an office space, focusing on the right office supplies is crucial. Adorning your desk with the right items can significantly impact your day. The right products can not only enhance your work routine and productivity but also help maintain a clear and streamlined mindset. We’ve curated an excellent collection of office supplies that perfectly blend form, functionality, minimalism, and simplicity. From an everlasting all-metal pencil to a hanging desk organizer, these are the ingenious products that you need on your desk. Let’s explore these innovative and practical tools to transform your work experience.
1. Levitating Pen 3.0
Called the Levitating Pen, this good-looking writing accessory is a sleek pen with a Schmidt ballpoint cartridge which makes it easy and sturdy to hold, creating a smooth writing experience.
The Levitating Pen can be positioned in its holder which is magnetized and can be kept floating in that position. You need to give the pen a simple twist, which makes it spin for a good 20 seconds, allowing you to interact with it.
What we like
The pen is easy and sturdy to hold
The act of spinning the pen can be a fun stress-buster
What we dislike
The pen can easily roll off when placed on a curved surface
2. Rolling World Clock
If you’re someone who works globally and needs to deal with clients in different timezones, then the minimal, one-hand Rolling World Clock is the product you need.
With the Rolling World Clock, you can easily get the timezone you need with a simple one-handed movement. You can turn the clock till the city whose time you need to check turns up, allowing the watch hand to adjust to the correct timezone automatically.
What we like
You don’t need a screen to check on multiple timezones
Keeps the time-telling a minimal and simple affair
What we dislike
The clock only features 12 set cities, so you will still need to calculate the time zones outside the clock’s interface
3. Everlasting All-Metal Pencil
Dubbed the Everlasting Metal Pencil, this Wacom stylus features a tip that never needs to be replaced or sharpened. The unique pencil allows you to focus entirely on your creative process instead of the lead.
The pencil’s octagonal shaft is built using aluminum, and it features a special alloy core. Instead of leaving heavy grooves on the paper, it draws like a pencil, without the tip wearing down even after dozens of marks.
What we like
Features a metal core instead of clay or charcoal, so the pencil wears down very slowly
What we dislike
Isn’t the best option for those who use smudging techniques, as it doesn’t smudge or smear the way normal graphite does
4. Japanese Drawing Pad
Japanese paper has always been loved and preferred by designers, artists, and stationery lovers for its high quality. And, if you’re someone who wants to try out this paper, then you may want to get your hands on the Japanese Drawing Pad.
The Japanese Drawing Pad is a premium-quality pad that allows you to unveil your thoughts and passions without the worry of accidentally damaging the durable paper fibers.
What we like
The paper is microperforated allowing for easy and effortless tearing
Available in various sizes and colors, so you can pick the kind that meets your stationery needs
What we dislike
At first glance, it seems like an ordinary pad with nothing special to offer. Looks can be deceiving
5. All-in-One Screwdriver
The All-in-One Screwdriver stands out for its innovative design and multifunctionality. It is not just a tool for driving screws but also a piece of engineering that brings playfulness into work.
The screwdriver features an innovative ball bearing for smooth operation and a spinner wheel that tackles bigger screwing challenges with ease. When more power is needed, its hexagon bit holder can be used with an electric screwdriver, making it a versatile addition to any office toolkit.
What we like
Smooth swivel action that requires only finger strength
Detachable spinner wheel for increased torque and faster rotation
What we dislike
Some might find the additional features to be overkill for simple screwdriving tasks
6. ASMR Zen Ball
The ASMR Zen Ball is a unique fusion of natural and engineered elements, designed to provide a calming and sensory experience.
Crafted from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy, this device doubles as a fidget toy, offering an interactive way to engage with the natural energy of the earth. This lava ball also offers an aromatic experience when used with essential oils, making it a multifaceted tool for relaxation.
What we like
Can be used for sensory stimulation, as a fidget toy, or for aromatherapy
Made from genuine volcanic stone, offering a distinct tactile experience
What we dislike
While it offers sensory benefits, its practical application in an office environment is limited
7. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter
The ordinary letter cutter provides a makeover in the form of the Effortless Standing Letter Cutter. The standard office tool is reimagined with this product.
The letter cutter not only efficiently slices paper, but it also functions as a chic paperweight which basically means less clutter and more style and elegance for your workspace.
What we like
No messy pieces and straps are created, making cleanup simple
It doubles up as a paperweight
What we dislike
While fantastic for standard envelopes, it is not versatile enough for those bulkier packages or intricate mail
8. Quick-Access Organizer
This organizer is an exciting storage solution that ensures your essentials are always accessible, and easily reachable. It marries form and functionality to create a unique 21st-century product.
It is a simple and minimalist product that stands apart in a world where smart gadgets and daily reminders reign supreme. It is the perfect combination of form, functionality, and aesthetics.
What we like
It is a lid and a tray and features dual functionality
The rotating mechanism takes the guesswork out of storage
What we dislike
Cannot accommodate a large array of items
9. Hanging Desk Organizer
In today’s ever-evolving workspaces, redefining how we utilize space is essential. This edge-hanging organizer doesn’t just challenge the norms; it entirely disrupts them.
Leveraging often overlooked spaces, it offers a solution that’s as innovative as it is effective, allowing users to reclaim their desktop real estate for productivity while ensuring essentials are always within arm’s reach.
What we like
It hangs off the edge, utilizing an otherwise frequently wasted space
It features a modular magnetic system which puts the control in your hand
What we dislike
Not sure how much weight it can handle before it becomes unstable
10. The Scissors w/ Base
The Scissors w/Base features a magnetic base that makes the design a pretty cutting-edge one, allowing you to reshape your workspace organization.
The magnet base is a game-changer, giving these shears a permanent VIP spot on your desk—no more lost-in-the-abyss moments. Crafted with lustrous Japanese steel, they’re not just tools but desk decor that screams ‘next-gen chic’.
What we like
That magnetic base is genius—ensuring your scissors have a dedicated spot
In the world of multifunctional gadgets, having a built-in box cutter is the kind of forward-thinking detail we appreciate
What we dislike
As much as they’re aesthetically pleasing, they will not replace the heavy-duty scissors you need for tougher tasks
One of the most important pieces of furniture in an office is an office chair. We spend the majority of our day sitting on chairs, whether we’re working in our home office or a corporate one. Hence, this piece of furniture needs to be not only comfortable but ergonomic, and aesthetic as well. It needs to be back to support our backs and butts through a long day of dealing with tasks and completing important assignments. And, an exceptional office chair that would make a great addition to your office is the Vitra ACX.
Designer: Antonio Citterio and Vitra
Designed as a collaboration between Antonio Citterio and Vitra, the Vitra ACX is the tenth task chair created by the collaborators. The Vitra ACX is an evolution and culmination of the long-lasting partnership, and it is a neat fit for your home office or corporate office. The goal of the chair is to have a “long service life with the smallest possible carbon footprint”.
Vitra is dubbed as ACX’s most sustainable task chair available, and this claim is backed up by the fact that the chair has a 100% recyclable construction. It is built with a limited number of components to ensure that service and maintenance are simple and efficient. Citterio explains, “The use of up to 100% recyclable materials was the single most important factor in the design process.”
The Vitra ACX features a three-dimensional form-fitted knit that covers the backrest pretty minimally, without causing any intrusions of the seam. The fabric has a tactile imprint design which provides supportive softness. The mesh fabric design is quite airy, and an excellent option for those who want a lightweight fabric rather than a heavily padded traditional support. Also, the Vitra ACX doesn’t feature too many controls. Physical controls have been eliminated resulting in reduced weight, and the eradication of any confusion or doubt when it comes to operating the chair. Instead, ACX is equipped with a mechanism that automatically adjusts itself to the different kinds of users and their body weights. The seat’s height is still manually adjustable though.
If you’re looking for a stunning little cabin in the woods to get away to and simply relax, then you’ve reached the right place. 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 safe haven nestled in the midst of nature, providing you a break from your everyday hectic life. From the ultimate contemporary cabin to an elevated cabin in Nova Scotia – these mesmerizing and surreal cabins are the ultimate retreat, you’ve been searching for. Plan your next vacation in one of them!
1. Space of Mind Cabin
The Space of Mind cabin is a 100-square-foot prefab cabin designed by the Finnish architecture studio Studio Puisto during the pandemic. It is an adaptable cabin that can be built anywhere.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Space of Mind cabin can be utilized as a garden office or even an off-grid holiday retreat. The cabin is modular in nature, making it a flexible space that provides people with a home away from home.
What we like
Modular structure that can be used for various functionalities
What we dislike
There isn’t any option to customize the interior of the cabin
2. Kjerringholmen Cabin
Dubbed the Kjerringholmen Cabin, this unique cabin is located on the Hvaler archipelago, and it occupies 63 square meters with a spacious and airy vibe.
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. Occupying 63 square meters, the cabin is supported by steel pillars and surrounded by a dusky rocky landscape.
What we like
Blends perfectly with the natural landscape, creating a surreal ambiance
Designed extremely efficiently and consciously to support a smart way of living
What we dislike
Birds may not notice the home and could crash into it since it merges so perfectly with its surroundings
3. The 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 well-suited for those who prefer more amenities
4. The Hideaway House
Dubbed the Hideaway House, this quaint little home is nestled in the midst of nature, and can only be accessed via a tucked-away road at the base of the mountain.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Hideaway House is a blackened timber cabin, and it is nestled on a 52.7-acre private mountain while being completely surrounded by lush ancient forests.
What we like
Has access to picturesque views of British Colombia’s Gulf Islands
Facilitates a lovely indoor-outdoor connection
What we dislike
The home is quite difficult to get to since only a tucked-away road leads to it
5. White Rock Cottage
Called the White Rock Cottage, this pretty elevated cabin is located on a forested hillside in Nova Scotia. The cozy cabin has been wrapped in Corten steel, and it occupies 1500 square feet in a five-acre property in the Gaspereau River Valley.
Why is it noteworthy?
The enchanting cottage is gifted with views of the valley since it is deftly perched on a steep incline. It can be accessed via a tight driveway, and a gravel footpath, although you need to climb it slowly, and it can take a while to reach.
What we like
Allows its residents to reconnect and rejuvenate
What we dislike
Elevated cabin might be inaccessible for some people with physical disabilities.
The Japanese design philosophy is appreciated and loved by everyone as it is efficient, detailed, and super organized. Each Japanese product features an exceptional eye for detail and showcases impressive design ethics. These products tend to be small and compact, yet power-packed with immense functionality, while providing excellent utility to the user. And, we’ve curated a collection of minimal and well-designed Japanese products for you. From a Japanese-lantern-inspired candle to a playful and whimsical grater – these clean, meticulous, and functional Japanese designs will surely win your heart!
1. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser
You can now take a relaxing breath with the battery-free aroma, and it won’t even harm the environment in any way. You can harness the power of a single candle with this minimalist aroma diffuser which utilizes simple physics and science.
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
Features a compact and comfortable size
Encourages an eco-friendly ethos
What we dislike
It is difficult to adjust the intensity of the aroma since there are no electric controls
2. Magboard Clipboard
If you’re someone who loves the smell of a new binder and loves using it, then you should check out the MagBaord Clipboard. It is designed to be a simple and effective solution that lets you easily attach any paper onto it, so you always have new fresh-smelling stationery at the tip of your fingers.
This minimal notepad/clipboard perfectly encapsulates Japanese minimalism. It features an innovative magnet and level mechanism to secure the paper, with a functional yet sleek aesthetic that makes it the perfect example of Japanese design. The MagBoard Clipboard is elegant, practical, and simple.
What we like
Features a magnetic design that enables you to attach the clipboard to any metal surface
Doesn’t have a ring, so you don’t need to tear the paper away when needed
What we dislike
Can only hold a maximum of 30 sheets at a time
The A4 size is not as portable or convenient for on-the-go as smaller and simpler clipboards
3. Smart Tea Pot
You can now harness the power of technology to make the perfect brew using this connected teapot. You can create the ultimate brew based on the type of tea you want, and your mood or energy level.
The Smart Tea Pot features advanced brewing adjustments that are based on the tea type, and the mood of the user. It exemplifies Japanese minimalism with its unique “Golden Drop” rotating infuser, and a design that perfectly merges technology with simplicity. The pot is made using ABS and glass, and it features a compact size.
What we like
Compact size and minimal aesthetics make it a great fit for any home
What we dislike
Since the design integrates technology for brewing customization, it can seem complex to those who prefer traditional and simple tea-making processes
4. Playful Palm Grater
Designed to fit perfectly into the palm of your hand, the Playful Palm Grater is just like a toy! It is a whimsical and playful product designed to add some fun to your kitchen and dining life.
The Playful Palm Grater resembles a curled piece of paper. It is charming and functional and can fit perfectly in the palm of your hand for easy grating. The grater is made from a single aluminum alloy plate and is available in a variety of colors. It is the perfect example of the Japanese approach to minimal design.
What we like
The unique form gives you a firm grip
It is playful, allowing you to use it like a game and have some fun
What we dislike
It has a compact size, which is not efficient for grating large quantities of food
5. Rotating Nail Clipper
You can now save your wrist from twisting and hurting whenever you cut your nails with the Rotating Nail Clipper. The rotating nail clipper is the perfect clip to cut your nails without forcing you to bend or twist your wrist to get the correct angle.
The rotating nail clipper features a practical design that eradicates the need to twist or bend your wrist while cutting your nails, in turn, functioning as an ergonomic and unique tool. The tool is built from high carbon stainless steel, and anodized aluminum alloy, with a minimalist design ethos that radiates functionality and simplicity.
What we like
Sleek design that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical
Available in maroon and silver color options
What we dislike
It is priced higher than typical clippers, so may not be preferred by everyone
6. Japanese Lantern Candle
This Japanese lantern candle is designed to look like a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern and features a pillar shape. It is great to pamper yourself on those days when you want some much-needed me-time.
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 perfectly merge with any modern living space. It is handcrafted by artisans in Kurashiki, Japan, and displays meticulous craftsmanship.
What we like
Utilizes a patented non-melting wax which adds a beautiful translucency to the candle
What we dislike
Since it is a candle, there is a risk of fire hazard, which could be concerning around children and pets
7. Everlasting All Metal Pencil
Meet the everlasting all-metal pencil that lets you say goodbye to the eternal cycle of pencil sharpening and wrestling with weak mechanical leads. This pencil is the perfect tool to let your creative ideas flow freely without hindrance. It is a unique writing tool designed to keep pace with your thoughts.
It has been crafted with a special alloy core and an aluminum body which doesn’t need any sharpening. It perfectly embodies the minimalist principle of simplicity and longevity. It leaves marks without wearing down the core, making it a practical and durable writing instrument.
What we like
You can easily erase it with regular erasers
Offers a smooth and cohesive writing experience
What we dislike
Doesn’t offer the same comfort and grips as traditional wooden pencils
8. Iron Frying Plate
The Iron Frying Plate is a plate that you can use to serve your food or a frying pan with a removable handle. It is an ingenious new way to combine cooking and eating!
It features an innovative design that combines both a frying pan and a serving place. It is made using durable materials and provides a functional and elegant solution to cooking and serving.
What we like
You can detach and attach the wooden handle as and when needed
What we dislike
Since it is made from iron, it is heavier than traditional frying pans, which can make handling and storing in small kitchens difficult
9. Upside-Downside Cup
You can elevate your water intake with the unique upside-down cup. This stunning 2-in-1 drinkware can be utilized as a pair for tumblers to let you and your special someone enjoy your favorite beverages together!
This unique 2-in-1 drinkware functions as both a tumbler and a storage container, which functions as a minimalist and practical solution for beverage consumption and snack storage. It is made using durable and shatterproof Tritan copolyester which lends the drinkware a clear and glass-like aesthetic.
What we like
Multifunctional design with a sleek body and minimal aesthetic
What we dislike
It has limited thermal insulation as compared to double-walled and insulated cups
10. Stacking Sake Drinkware
You can now give your favorite Sake drink the love and attention it truly deserves with the exquisite Stacking Sake Drinkware. The drinkware is patterned after Japanese rice cakes and is built using high-quality tin. It makes your sake-drinking experience almost sacred and allows you to enjoy the classic part of Japanese culture.
The set perfectly represents the elegance and simplicity of Japanese craftsmanship. It not only serves the practical purpose of sake drinking but also functions as a stunning tablepiece. Since it is stackable, it is space-saving and focuses on space efficiency.
What we like
Versatile and minimal aesthetic
Features a clean design while occupying minimum space
What we dislike
It is designed to be utilized for sake and is not a versatile enough drinkware
Architects Ignacio de la Vega and Pilar Cano-Lasso created Tini Living around five years ago. Tini Living is a prefab company that’s come up with five models of ADUs in an effort to provide their customers with as much transparency as possible. “We wanted to create something simple and elegant, but we also wanted clients to know exactly what they were getting the cost, and the timing from the very first meeting,” said de la Vega. And, what makes their ADUs even more unique and fabulous is that they can be completed in 100 days!
Tini Living offers a range of ADUs to meet the diverse needs of their diverse customers. They provide an entire range of standalone, prefab modules and an extra small version called the Tini XS which starts at $38,000. The Tini XS is one of their popular models, and it is perfectly suited for two people. It includes a kitchen, bed frame, full bathroom, and a hot and cold air pump within 180 square feet.
They start off with a design phase, in which the clients can make their own personalized changes and small adaptations to the module of their choice. Once the plan is finalized, they aim to complete the construction of the ADU within 150 days, and delivery within 30 days. By keeping construction and delivery time to a minimum, Tini Living aims to offer its clients flexibility and provide reduced economic burdens as compared to traditional homes.
In terms of pricing, Tini Living maintains a transparent attitude, where they offer the client as much information as possible before the process begins. They have created a unique customization tool, which allows them to alter and adapt their different models to the personal needs and requirements of their clients. The company also partners up with local architecture and engineering firms, to ease and smoothen up the entire process, and to provide a cohesive and coordinated process. They also work with a third party to ensure that all the local requirements and regulations are met and followed at the site.
Architecture has recently been making leaps and bounds, as conventional design rules have been broken and architects are on a mission to create innovative and ingenious dwellings that will transform modern housing. And recently, Nurgissa Architects unveiled their concept of the Modern Kazakh Yurt – a transformable dwelling that is heavily inspired by traditional nomadic homes and design. These modern yurts are intended to be small compact dwellings that are reminiscent of the quintessential yurts we may have come across.
Occupying a 25 sqm perimeter, the yurt has been designed with strategy and precision to create a layout that can house bedrooms and workspaces, as well as a centralized section for kitchen and toilet facilities. The compact yurt accommodates all the amenities you could need to live a comfortable life. The yurt heavily focuses on transformable furniture, such as beds and chairs, to ensure that the internal space is optimized and utilized efficiently.
The exterior of the yurt features plywood panel segments with a flexible polymer film that is equipped with organic semiconductors that generate electricity. A square meter of the polymer film creates 1kW/hour. Additional electricity is provided by telescopic components, which offer 5.3 kW. The generated electricity is stored away in batteries, which are in turn used to power household appliances. The telescopic elements give the home its classic yurt-like aesthetic, and can easily adjust to steppe areas, using segment extension and shifting. This allows for the creation of an open or enclosed living space, depending on the weather conditions.
An autonomous biological system is integrated to deal with wastewater treatment, which reduces the negative impact on the environment and supports environmental sustainability. Other eco-friendly measures were also taken by the design team, such as the integration of eco-friendly materials like glued plywood with a basalt fiber heat-protective layer for wall segments. This measure enables the modern yurt to harmoniously merge with its surrounding environment, creating an experience that is seamless and in tune with nature, while utilizing traditional nomadic ideologies to counter modern ecological issues. Currently, the Modern Kazakh Yurt is a conceptual design, but hopefully, we see it as a real tangible structure or a collection of real tangible structures soon.
If you’re someone who loves traveling and indulges in it as a full-fledged affair, then you know how important it is to have the right set of travel accessories with you. And the accessory decision that you need to pay the most attention to first and foremost is – the correct choice of suitcase. A suitcase forms the foundation of your travel gear, and you base everything else around it. And, the travel brand Mono is pretty great at designing excellent suitcases. The name Monos is inspired by the Japanese concept of ‘Mono no aware’, and it is centered around the feelings one has regarding the fleeting and delicate nature of a particular moment.
Monos’ luggage is designed to be fun, whimsical, and yet functional. They have a diverse range of suitcases including the Monos x Magnolia Bakery collaboration with the popular NYC-based Magnolia Bakery. The pieces in the collection are cupcake-inspired and with a colorful and whimsical aesthetic that instantly makes you want to grab them. They also have a sophisticated Terrazzo which is a limited edition and involves a hard shell luggage option that looks very much like Terrazzo. They have other limited edition pieces as well such as – Terracotta, Sage Green, Purple Icing, and Banana Pudding.
The Monos’ carry-on and check-in bags feature aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shells that are equipped with 360° spinner wheels. The inside of every case is lined with an anti-microbial lining which is built from 100% recycled polyester, and is further adorned with ultra-microfiber vegan leather detailings. The suitcases are amped with TSA-approved combination locks, dual Y-shaped compression straps, and dividers, accentuated with YKK reverse coil zippers, and a flexible telescopic handle with four different height settings.
And to make things even more interesting, Monos also has the Carry-On Pro, and Carry-On Pro Plus models which essentially upgraded hard cases with an additional built-in and fold-out compartment that is a great space to store your laptop. You can also use this space to accommodate a tablet, jacket, sweater, or travel shoes – while providing you with easy access to pull them out whenever needed.
