Called the Vank Cube, this modular furniture system was developed by the Polish brand Vank. The furniture system includes intriguing “building blocks” which are made from flax and hemp fibers. Designed by Vank’s creative director Anna Vonhausen, the Vank Cube can be combined and merged to fulfill a bunch of purposes, such as functioning as storage, space dividers, or even as base tables and desks. It is the kind of innovative and modern furniture solution we need in our homes, one which is sustainable, and has versatile functionality.
The various blocks feature a natural color palette, which is because they’ve been crafted from flax and hemp fibers. Vank says that the material choices are perfect for clients who want a minimalist or Japandi aesthetic, something that is subtle and clean, and yet functional. The aesthetic and appeal of the collection allow it to artfully merge with any space, it has a neutral vibe that seamlessly complements different rooms. This system is designed for interior spaces that need a lot of adaptability and versatility, such as cafes, schools, event venues, and offices.
The Vank Cube system utilizes reversible connectors and fasteners which allows for easy modification in “only a few moments”, according to the company. This allows users to customize and change the furniture system as and when needed, enabling them to create a space that perfectly suits their needs and requirements.
The system also includes certain optional add-on elements which support customization. These elements include an upholstered seat cushion, side panels built from biomaterial, and lightweight tops crafted from plywood. These can be finished in oak veneer or with different color coatings. If you’re seeking a well-designed and sustainable furniture solution, then the Vank Cube is the one for you. It is a flexible and modular furniture system that is designed to meet your modern-day requirements, whether they’re in an office, venue, or even your own home.
Named Cargo, and designed by the Portuguese studio Madeiguincho, this tiny home was initially an old shipping container but is now an attractive house. The humble metal box was customized and modified to feature a rooftop terrace and a space-saving interior that slowly opens up to the outside. It is based on a standard shipping container and measures 6 x 2.5 meters. The home is finished in wood, and the rooftop terrace features a big overhang. Insulation and operable windows also mark the home, which helps maintain a cool temperature throughout the house.
The rooftop terrace can be accessed via a ladder and one of the exterior walls of the container is uncovered, so that the home can be opened up when the weather allows. The tiny home is also adorned with a deck and massive double glass doors, which were protected by wooden slats. The interior has wooden decor, which is similar to Madeiguincho’s previous works. The studio isn’t too fussy or formal with the layout, since the available space is quite limited. The home features a large room in the center with a raised bed, with some storage space underneath. There is also a L-shaped seating area, with a porthole-style window.
The Cargo also features a simple and compact kitchen with a sink, storage, and basic cooking facilities like an oven and a stove. The home also includes a small bathroom which includes a toilet and shower. The Cargo tiny home is nestled in Portugal’s stunning Algarve region and is intended to be a short-term rental, which does seem to be a better option than a full-time home.
Cargo’s wooden and minimalist appeal lends it a calming and subtle personality. It is a wonderful specimen of how shipping containers can be converted into modern and well-designed homes with comfortable amenities, and all the essentials you could need for a simple and cozy life.
Lighting designs today are truly innovative and unique, I mean you find all kinds of cool lighting designs out there! Today designers are creating unique, functional, and powerful pieces that not only light up a living space but also add an extra oomph factor! These lighting designs not only help you see in the dark, but they also function as an attractive and visually appealing piece. And, one such lighting design is Sora Light by Fung + Bedford for Frandsen.
Designed by UK-based design duo Fung + Bedford, this statement light for the Danish brand Frandsen is inspired by the Japanese art of origami. As you look at it, you can see how widely and generously it has drawn on art the of origami. Called the Sora pendant light, it features a horizontal form and is artfully suspended between two cords, and flanked by wing-like intrusions, which gives the impression that it is floating in mid-air.
An LED strip light is embedded inside the bottom of the fixture, which allows it to radiate a soft and warm light. The subtle glow seems to spread across the lamp’s structure, which is crafted from tyvek – a paper-like and synthetic material produced from compressed fibers. Tyvek has been utilized since it is waterproof and features tear-proof characteristics. It is also a 100 percent recyclable material, according to the designers.
“A sculptural statement piece which appears to levitate in its surroundings, Sora exudes a serene, radiant aura whilst transcending the boundaries of traditional lighting design,” said Frandsen. And Sora truly has an almost other-worldly and ethereal look to it. It seems to suspend from the air, giving it a charming and floating quality. It can add an extra oomph factor, and loads of muted elegance to a living space, or even a commercial office space if you’re feeling experimenting.
Meet the adorable Chicorée tiny home by Baluchon! It is another spectacular and cozy home by the French firm. It measures only 20 feet in length, and it features a flexible interior layout, which also includes sleeping space for around five people, as well as two separate work areas. The lovely Chicorée is founded on a double-axle trailer, and it has a cedar finish accentuated by an aluminum roof. The home includes a spruce frame, and a mixture of linen, cotton, and hemp insulation, while the interior has a subtle spruce finish.
Designer: Baluchon
The power of the tiny home comes from standard RV-style hookup. As visitors enter the living room, they are welcomed by an airy and light-filled space, which is created due to the generous glazing. The majority of this room is occupied by a large sofa bed which can be used as a comfy sleeping area for guests. This room also includes an electric radiator nearby as well as some shelving.
The kitchen is adjacent to this main room. The kitchen doesn’t include a fridge or a proper oven, since the owners didn’t want them, which does seem a bit inconvenient, but this creates loads of free space which is taken up by a large table/desk area. This table area has a view of the kitchen windows and can be used for eating meals and working from home.
The kitchen also includes multiple storage nooks, as well as some cabinetry, a sink, and a three-burner propane-powered stove. The kitchen is also connected to the bathroom which includes a shower, toilet, and additional storage. The upstairs area of the Chicorée can be accessed via an open staircase which is made from oak and steel, instead of the usual ubiquitous storage-interested staircase we see in typical tiny homes these days. The entire upper storey features a low ceiling and has a main sleeping area which hosts a double bed, as well as a smaller sleeping space and play area for a child. The upper storey also accommodates a second home working area which includes a small oak desk that is placed over the living area. This little feature enables the users to sit with their legs dangling down, which seems like a comfier position than crossing your legs for hours on end.
When we’re doing up our home, we always focus on the furniture we place in it or on the interior decor style we prefer, but focusing on home decor accents is equally important. These little decorative items can truly uplift the aesthetic appeal of a space, adding a personalized touch that will resonate with you and your visitors. A well-selected set of home decor accents can truly set the perfect tone for your home, and if they’re minimal and super-functional, well they tick all the boxes then! We’ve put together a collection of functional, nifty and visually pleasing home decor accents that you need to check out!
1. Pop-Up Book Vase
This enchanting pop-up book vase holds and presents your flowers in a manner that is truly fairy tale-ish! You can open the cover to reveal a 3D cutout of the vase, which is designed to showcase the colorful beauty of your precious floral arrangement. You can flip a page to unveil another graceful vase design, allowing you to have a fresh presentation when you feel like it.
You can even turn the book upside down, to get another pretty view from a different perspective. This pop-up book vase is a simple yet creative way to make your flowers stand out, and truly pop. You can start your flowery adventure with this clever pop-up book vase.
What we like
It features three unique and graceful pop-up vase designs
Crafted from 100% natural pulp with water-resistant coating
What we dislike
Looks a bit difficult to clean and maintain, no clear instructions on how to do so
2. Battery-free aroma Diffuser
Dubbed the battery-free aroma diffuser, this little product is an excellent option to bring some fragrant and fresh air into your home. You can take deep breaths and relax without causing any harm to the environment. The diffuser harnesses the power of a single candle by using simple physics and science.
This unique diffuser is battery-free, and you don’t need any external power sources to operate. It only relies on the heat of a single candle, spreading relaxing and calming aromatic scents through your house. The diffuser is also made from sustainable materials, lending it an eco-friendly ethos.
What we like
The diffuser is crafted from recyclable materials
It is compatible with different kinds of essential oils
What we dislike
Since the diffuser doesn’t have electric controls, it can be tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma
3. CD Jacket Player
Relive your favorite musical moments with CDs, while also appreciating their accompanying album art no matter where you may be with this CD Jacket Player. The CD Jacket Player not only accommodates classic audio CDs but also uplifts their aesthetic appeal by merging with their jackets.
This CD Jacket Player not only boasts the CD jacket art but can also be mounted on your wall functioning as a minimal and decorative element in your home. The jacket player lets you display your favorite album art, while also elevating the visual appeal of your living space.
What we like
The CD Jacket Player is designed to add some style and personality to your living space
What we dislike
Digital music streaming reigns supreme nowadays, so a CD player is a limiting product
4. Bookish Bookmark
Named the Bookish Bookmark, this little product lets you enjoy a hands-free reading session while letting you keep your book open without having to employ any awkward workarounds. You don’t need to put down the book with something ugly and heavy.
The Bookish Bookmark is great for those who want to showcase their favorite books as an element in their home. Equipped with a clean transparent design, it keeps your book open while adding a visually interesting element to your desk or bookshelf.
What we like
The Bookish Bookmark lets you display your favorite book in a neat and aesthetic manner
What we dislike
It might be too large for small books, and disliked by those who prefer discreet bookmarks
5. Moon Rock Clock
You can now bring your love of outer space and the Moon to your home with the Moon Rock Clock! This simple yet striking clock lets you live your space travel fantasies, within the comfort of your own home. It is made from specially polished stainless steel and features a circular shape while capturing the mystique of the moon with numbers that artfully float around the edges.
The numbers seem to wane and wax around just like the moon. As you take a glimpse of the clock, it gives you a subtle reminder to live life with a spirit of adventure, just like the rocket ship that makes its way around the moon. The minimalist clock with its moon travel-inspired ethos is a reminder to follow your dreams.
What we like
The printed numbers seem to float and vanish around the moon
What we dislike
It is a big and bulky design and will occupy substantial space on your desk or table
6. Invisible Shoehorn
Meet the Invisible Shoehorn, a nifty product designed to save your back and socks, as it will harmoniously disappear into the background when it isn’t being used. The Shoehorn features a long stainless steel body which prevents any kind of snags and tears in the stockings and shoes.
The Invisible Shoehorn is super unique as it artfully disappears into the background when it is not in use. It features a transparent stand and makes for an attractive and intriguing decorative element for your home. The shoehorn has a practical utility and decorative appeal.
What we like
Seamlessly merges with the background of your home when it isn’t being used
It is a functional product with aesthetic appeal as well
What we dislike
Not very economically priced
7. The Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set
This tiny relaxation-inducing product is called the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, and it lets you enjoy an outdoor fire within the comfort of your own home. This little set captures the various scents, smells and joy of a lovely outdoor fire, without any of the issues of a massive outdoor fire.
The mini hardwood used for the diffuser is collected from branches that were intended to be discarded away. They give off a warm smoky smell when burnt on the stainless steel mini oven, giving off a comforting aroma. You can add a few drops of the essential oils extracted from Mt.Hakusan trees, and an authentic outdoor scent will spread through your home.
What we like
The diffuser can be used as a cooking or heating stool as well, by adding a piece of solid wood, making it a multifunctional design
What we dislike
Requires small pieces of wood
8. Jewelvase Mirror Stand
Called the Jewelvase Mirror Stand, this lovely mirror is designed to also function as an accessory stand or vase. You can not only look at your face in it, but it also elevates anything that is placed on it. The simple and elegant design adds character to your dresser, while also providing essential functionality.
The Jewelvase Mirror Stand has dual functionality which allows it to function as a mirror and a vase/accessory stand. Made using bioplastic material, which includes rice husks, the mirror stand has an elegant decorative quality to it. It serves as a stylish yet functional home decor accent!
What we like
Uplifts any dresser, table, desk, or furniture piece it is positioned on
What we dislike
Since it is a dual-functional product, the effectiveness of either role could be hindered
9. Retro Candle Lamp
Dubbed the Retro Candle Lamp, this vintage-inspired lamp will make a lovely addition to your bedside table or desk. It emits a soft subtle light, while also holding your scented candles. The scented candles in the lamp help spread a relaxing and sweet scent in your room.
Why is it noteworthy?
The warmth of the lamp helps activate the fragrance molecules in the candle, which lets out a pleasant and lovely smell, without even lighting it. This cuts out the danger of having an open flame near our bed or on your desk.
What we like
The handle on top lets you control and move around the lamp without touching any of the hot parts
What we dislike
Not a great option for those who like watching an open flame flickering
10. Key Holder Wakka
Always put your keys in the right place with the Key Holder Wakka! This nifty little product features a stylish key ring and a lovely wooden base which merge to form a functional and aesthetic home accent that stores your key efficiently and well.
The keyholder utilizes a powerful neodymium magnet that keeps the keyring in place, and a brisk tapping sound is created at separation. You can pick between iron, brass, or stainless steel in material choices with Silver/Maple and Silver/Walnut options which contribute to its decorative qualities.
What we like
Transforms the simple act of putting your key into something fun and interactive
What we dislike
It features a neodymium magnet which cannot hold heavy sets of keys well
Designed by Columbian architectural firm PAE, this beautiful open-air tiny house is called the Casa Caoba, and it is tucked away into the lush hillside of Anapoima, Columbia. The home is located in a pre-existing mango grove, and it beautifully merges with and accepts the lush natural setting. Featuring a minimalist design ethos, and perched 900 meters above sea level, the home is supported by a stone foundation that artfully follows the form of the steep terrain of the property.
Designer: PAE
The Casa Caoba includes five parallel walls that seem to extend outwards, creating four living spaces within the home. The home has a wonderful open-air element, wherein the open walls allow passive airflow throughout the entirety of the home. To implement this open-air concept, the floorplan of the home minimizes the layout of longitudinal walls and also integrates openings in the transversal walls.
Since the home seamlessly merges with the surrounding landscape, the Casa Caoba functions as a space that is truly one with nature and the environment. The open-air design also forms microclimates, wherein cold air from the mountainous side of the home is channeled into the house, offering natural cooling. The walls function as a thermal mass, regulating the temperature inside the home, which is integral since Colombia is known for having high temperatures all through the year.
The home is made using locally sourced stone, bamboo, and timber which are available in the region. The casa also features lovely bamboo ceiling slats and local craftsmen handled the pine wood and carpentry of the teak furniture. The design style and theme of the home are cohesive, with stone and concrete materials creating a contrasting impact, while the wood maintains a cozy feeling. The Casa Caoba is equipped with an open-air minimalist kitchen and dining area which also serves as the home’s entrance. The dining zones connect to the relaxation terrace, which also includes a plunge pool and outdoor lounge. This central space is a great spot to relax and unwind in nature. The home also features a master bedroom, which has a raised bed, providing a hidden storage space underneath. The bedroom is connected to an open-air bathroom.
Lighting designs are plenty and not at all lacking, but a lighting design that is the perfect mix of functionality, personality, and good looks isn’t always easy to come by. And I’m always looking for well-designed lighting pieces that not only do their job of illumination but are also interesting little designs that spark conversations and elevate mundane living spaces. And this collection of table and wall lamps truly hit the spot! Called the Port range, this collection is designed by an Australian designer Tom Fereday in collaboration with the lighting brand Rakumba.
The Port Collection celebrates “the refractive nature of crystal”. It is the lovechild of the creative efforts of Tom Fereday and Rakumba, and the collection includes two shapes – the circular Round design, and the lozenge-shaped Stadium design. They both are available in tabletop or wall-mounted interactions. Each variant includes a solid glass block supported by a metal base. The glass block features an interesting conical shape with an internal stepped form. This intriguing form allows a subtle play with the refraction of light when switched on.
Since the block isn’t directly connected to the base, this block can be flipped over and also reset into the base, altering the manner in which the light is cast. “Port celebrates the purity and refractive nature of crystal,” said designer Tom Fereday. “Reversing the crystal form entirely changes the way the light is perceived, revealing Port’s unique dual character.” The Port collection beautifully captures and showcases the purity and characteristics of crystal. It takes the beauty of the material to a whole new level, allowing the material to take center place and grab attention without the need for any excessive bells and tassels.
The metallic base of the lighting design is available in a wide range of metallic finishes, so you can pick and choose the finish that perfectly suits the interiors of your living or working space. The Port lighting designs are versatile pieces that can be used in a variety of interiors – ranging from residential spaces to restaurants, making it a lighting piece that can find utility almost anywhere.
Now camping isn’t the sort of activity that everyone enjoys, but once you get the taste of it, you do feel like dipping your toes into it time and again. I love dedicating my weekends to camping! Just a few days away from my hectic life, and this hectic world, in a bubble of my own, where all my worries are nowhere to be seen. Although camping does have a few downsides too – I mean, you have to get down and dirty, live life on the road, and tackle the moodiness of the elements. In such a scenario, having a set of trustworthy and handy camping products can make a world of difference! Having the right products by your side can make your life much easier during those crucial moments. From a puzzle-like firepit to a flashlight duo with multiple modes– we’ve curated some fun and functional camping designs for you, that promise to make your outdoor adventures smoother and easier.
1. Portable Fire Pit Stand
Called the Portable Fire Pit Stand, this innovative fire pit stand can be assembled like a puzzle. Unlike typical traditional fire pits, the portable fire put doesn’t only offer warmth, it also doubles up as a cooking station on your camping trips or cozy winter gatherings and picnics in your yard.
Crafted from special sheet metal technology, the Portable Fire Pit Stand doesn’t get warped or distorted from the heat, it provides safety and longevity. It has a compact size and can be easily assembled, making it an excellent option for outdoor settings such as camping trips.
What we like
Has a unique puzzle-like design that can be easily set up
Features industrial looks with clean sleek aesthetics
What we dislike
Since the fire stand has a compact size, it isn’t ideal for preparing meals for large groups
2. Tomori Lantern Kit
Named the Tomori Lantern Kit, this unique kit allows you to build your lantern! You can also put it aside once you’re done using it. The Tomori Lantern Kit doesn’t really function like a ready-made lantern, and once collapsed, it is quite compact, and doesn’t occupy too much space. You can also fit in a conventional flashlight inside the lantern!
The lantern kit includes a foldable cardboard piece which functions as the base of the kit, as a flashlight holder, and as an overall stable structure for the lamp. The lantern kit is equipped with a LED flashlight, that you can use when it is not inside the lantern. The cardboard base can also hold any other cylindrical flashlight which is less than 30mm in diameter, and 160mm in length.
What we like
The entire kit can be folded down into a flat A4-sized package which is great for stashing and packing away
What we dislike
The lantern kit cannot withstand rain
3. Sustainable Cutlery Set
Dubbed the Sustainable Cutlery Set, this little kit is perfect for your outdoor camping trips. Made from Glas Fiber-Reinforced Polymers or GFRP, the sustainable cutlery set consists of light and durable utensils that are showcased in reusable and recyclable packaging. The set is made to last a long time.
The Sustainable Cutlery Set has mechanical strength, so the knife and fork won’t easily break if your steak is really well done. The different components can be split in half, making them portable and easy to carry around. The parts can be easily screwed and unscrewed.
What we like
A durable set that is made to last
Easy-to-carry around and compact form
What we dislike
The handles of the cutlery may be too thin for large hands
4. All-in-One Grill
Named the All-in-One Grill, this compact grill is the perfect grilling companion for your outdoor camping adventures. The grill is designed to support all kinds of cooking – from frying to smoking, grilling, stewing, or simply keeping some wine warm. The grill doesn’t occupy too much space and does a great job in a small amount of space.
The All-in-One Grill is created by a small factory-owned factory, and it is designed to maximize the limited amount of space available. It has a wooden base, which protects the table from the grill’s hot bottom, while also functioning as a lid when the griller is kept away.
What we like
Supports seven different ways of cooking
Makes the cumbersome task of outdoor cooking simple and efficient
What we dislike
It features a simple portable design which won’t be preferred by hardcore grillers
5. AirTag Carabiners
These AirTag Carabiners are sleek and good-looking. They offer a refreshing makeover to your boring old metal carabiners. The metallic carabiners are precision-made, and feature a lightweight and non-bulky form which makes them easy to carry around, and even easier to use.
The AirTag Carabiners have been meticulously handcrafted to provide premium durability. They aren’t just ordinary melted metal casings, every piece is unique, as manufacturing conditions can alter and affect the final design.
What we like
Made from high-quality metal by hand
What we dislike
The process of attaching or detaching the AirTag isn’t very accessible and user-friendly
6. Compact Modular Grill Plate
Named the Compact Modular Grill Plate, this portable kitchen utensil can prepare a perfectly cooked steak or food for you using some heat conduction, heat uniformity, and plate thickness. The product can look deceiving, but once you get inside the plate, you get a glimpse into the magic of how it works.
The modular grill plate features a three-layer architecture with two steel layers covering aluminum. It has a lower Stainless Steel SUS439 which lets the grill function on an induction stove, while the upper Stainless Steel SUS304 features excellent corrosion resistance, allowing it to function as a portable, durable, and handy appliance.
What we like
The plate is crafted by experts from Tsubamesanjo in Japan
Features a compact and lightweight design to reduce efforts and save space
What we dislike
The plate cannot hold large portions
7. HOTO Flashlight DUO
Named the HOTO Flashlight DUO, this innovative flashlight is a great fit for all camping scenarios. It is incorporated and integrated with different modes and inclusions to expand and improve the flashlight’s functionality. It is the kind of practical and unique camping gear you need on your outdoor adventures.
Why is it noteworthy?
The HOTO Flashlight DUO features a retractable magnetic hook, magnetic base, and a strap to ensure it is functional in all situations. It provides users with the opportunity to go hands-free and focus on the various tasks at hand. You can place the flashlight on a hanging space, or you can magnetically hook it onto a metal object.
What we like
It features a simple interface that is honed by a knob and button which provides 13 light combinations
What we dislike
It has a hefty price tag which may not be appreciated by everyone
8. Anywhere Lamp
Called the Anywhere Lamp, this minimalist and simple lamp is designed to be the perfect combination of a portable and non-portable lamp. It is designed to be a lighting solution that you can easily carry anywhere with you to set the right mood and vibe, while it also manages to look pretty stylish.
The mushroom-shaped table lamp is quite minimalist. It doesn’t feature cords or any buttons on its clean and pristine surface. You simply need to press anywhere on the edge of the lamp’s top, and it switches on. The lamp cycles through its various brightness settings before it can be turned off again.
What we like
Each press of the Anywhere Lamp has a soft and comfy clicking feel to it, allowing you to enjoy the gesture
What we dislike
Compared to traditional camping light, the diffused light of this lamp may not be bright enough
9. BioLite Firepit
Named the BioLite Firepit, this smoke-less wood burner lets users glance into everything that is going on inside the fire. You don’t need any chemical fuel or gas to create a great fire, the BioLite Firepit only utilizes standard wood and some smart engineering.
Why is it noteworthy?
The innovative firepit utilizes standard wood mixed with some clever engineering, which involves air being injected through 51 air jets, which ensures that the temperature is uniform throughout the firepit, and it supports improved combustion.
What we like
Features a fan that controls the fire’s intensity
What we dislike
You need to have access to chopped wood at all times to use it
10. Mouro Lamp
Named the Mouro Lamp, this pretty minimalist little lamp is designed by Patricia Perez for Case Furniture. The lamp is defined by simple geometric shapes, and it is a playful and portable lighting edition that has ben named after a lighthouse in the designer’s hometown.
Why is it noteworthy?
This lamp is made using a disc-shaped LED light, and a rectangular frame that holds it, which also doubles up as a handle. The lamp features a simple yet unique structure and form which makes it quite easy to carry around and utilize.
What we like
The Mouro Lamp can be rotated at 360 degrees
It offers directional illumination
What we dislike
The lamp looks a little fragile and is easily breakable
Dragon Tiny Homes are known for their tiny homes that truly embody the micro-living movement. They bring back the small movement’s humble and modest roots with their tiny home called the Element. The Element features a compact frame and a simple yet well-equipped interior. The home is currently up for sale for an economical price tag of US$23,500. Let’s deep dive into the nitty gritties of the home!
The Element tiny home is quite similar to Dragon’s 16’TWOH With Loft but with a smaller price tag. The tiny home is founded on a double-axle trailer and features a length of 16 feet. In comparison to popular European tiny homes, like the ones from Baluchon, this one is truly quite compact. It is finished in smart siding-engineered wood and weighs around 7000 lb. Since the price point is quite comfy, it is a given that the home isn’t extremely spacious, and you won’t be hosting a lot of parties. And it does lack some of the pristine features you may find in larger tiny homes. The interior is compact and cozy, and clad in rough plywood.
The home is unfurnished, but it does contain a basic kitchen unit with a sink and cabinetry. The main room can also double up as the living area, and besides this space, the only other room downstairs is the bathroom. The bathroom is quite snug and compact too, and it features a toilet and a shower.
The Element features one loft bedroom which can be accessed via a ladder. The bedroom is like most bedrooms found in typical tiny homes, it is loft-style with a low ceiling and has sufficient space for a double bed. Although currently the Element is priced at US$23,500, it can be upgraded with better features and finishes at an additional cost. So if you’re in the mood to splurge a bit, you can elevate the basic Element and get something more to your taste and liking.
Irrespective if you’re working at home or in commercial life, both these scenarios involve a desk! A desk is probably one of the most important pieces of furniture in our modern lives, only because we spend the majority of our day on it. You may be typing away to glory, munching away on a snack, or simply fidgeting with a random object – you do end up spending hours on your desk. And hence, your desk must be neat, tidy, and uncluttered. Not only will this improve your work routine and productivity, but it will also help you maintain a clearer and more streamlined mindset. And, I’ve discovered that adding limited, quality, and innovative products to my desk setup can help me in achieving these goals! And if they’re Japanese products then rest assured they’re gonna be minimal, functional, and ergonomic. And we’ve curated a collection of smart and well-designed desk gear to help you achieve peak productivity. Happy working!
1. Levitating Pen 3.0
Dubbed the Levitating Pen, this sleek writing accessory features a Schmidt ballpoint cartridge, letting you hold it with ease, and write seamlessly and smoothly. The pen floats at a 60-degree angle when it is resting in its specially designed stand, which instantly reminds you of a spacecraft floating about in the galaxy!
This good-looking pen can be placed in its magnetized holder, which keeps it floating in position. You simply need to give the pen a little twist, and it will spin for 20 seconds, letting you have a playful experience with it.
What we like
Easy and sturdy to hold and use
Spinning the pen can be a fun stress-busting activity for you
What we dislike
When placed on a curved surface the pen can easily roll off, so you need to keep it aside with care
2. Bookish Bookmark
Have you ever found yourself browsing through your favorite book on your desk, and you want to leave it open while you quickly grab a snack or a drink, but you can’t find anything to mark your place with?! Well, this is where the Bookish Bookmark comes in. It is a unique acrylic bookmark that also looks like a book!
The second you look at the Bookish Bookmark, you know it is no ordinary bookmark. It is created to sit on your book, keeping it open for you as you sip some coffee, or chomp down on your favorite snacks. It lets you read while conducting other activities, but also ensures that the natural curved form of your book isn’t harmed.
What we like
Protects the natural curved form of your book, doesn’t damage its binding or ruin its shape
Lets you multitask while reading, you can sew or cook!
What we dislike
If you place the bookmark on your desk unused, it won’t lay completely flat
3. Serenity Pen Stand
Called the Serenity Pen Stand, this Japanese minimalist design exudes a metallic hint and is created to hold your pen upright, keeping it ready to use. This pen stand ensures that you never really lose your pen, since pens can be easy to misplace, it keeps your pen in sight always.
This minimal and sleek pen stand offers constant easy access to your pen, and making sure that you never lose it. Made using aluminum and copper, it functions as a well-balanced cylinder, that is designed to add a pop of personality and Japanese design ethos to your desk.
What we like
Features a sleek minimal design that is easy to set up, use, and carry
Equipped with a heavy copper bottom, offering a stable form
What we dislike
Since the pen stand is quite minimal and compact, it can be easily misplaced
There aren’t many color options to choose from
4. World Clock
If you’re someone who always ends up procrastinating, and often loses track of time, then the World Clock is what you need on your desk. It isn’t your everyday desk clock, and it has a unique dodecagonal shape with a single hand and a minimalist face. The innovative clock presents 12 time zones!
With a unique design and form, the World Clock not only offers the correct information about your country, but also extra details on the time in other parts of the world. At first glance, you can tell the hour, but with a closer look, you can figure out which quarter of the hour it is.
What we like
Has 12 sides with individual markings for a city that represents a certain timezone
What we dislike
It features only 12 set time zones, so you will be missing out on some time zones
5. Mecricco Catch
Called the Mecricco Catch, these elastic page-turning aids are designed by Plus, and let you turn your paper products with ease. The aids feature an outer rib, which lets you hold the paper firmly, while the inner rib doesn’t let your fingers slip while you’re flipping through pages.
Why is it noteworthy?
These page-turning aids have a concave curve at the bottom, which lets you move your fingers around as you flip through pages. It has holes that offer ventilation, giving your fingers some room to breathe.
What we like
An excellent option for those who have fancy nail jobs, and need to protect their fingers as they flip through pages
What we dislike
Not a necessary item, if you’ve gone completely digital
6. The Scissors w/ Base
Dubbed the Scissors w/ Base, these unique scissors are equipped with a magnetic base which makes the design a cutting-edge one. This innovative design allows you to completely reshape and jazz up your workspace organization, making sure your scissors aren’t lying around creating clutter.
The scissors’ feature a magnet base which is a total game-changer, snagging a VIP spot on your desk. They are crafted from lustrous Japanese steel, and besides functioning as a pretty nifty tool, they also make a sleek and good-looking addition to your desk decor.
What we like
The magnetic base can be utilized as a dedicated spot for your scissors
Equipped with a built-in cutter, which is quite an innovative forward-thinking detail we appreciate
What we dislike
Cannot function as an alternative to the heavy-duty scissors you need for difficult tasks
7. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter
Dubbed the Effortless Standing Letter Cutter, this nifty tool is something you defo need on your work desk. This simple tool can totally elevate your daily productivity and ensure you have a clean and well-maintained desk. The letter cutter also doubles up as a paperweight!
The Effortless Standing Letter Cutter completely transforms an ordinary and standard office tool. You can cut through paper efficiently and effectively, while also functioning as a paperweight. It is an excellent solution for boosting productivity!
What we like
The letter cutter cuts precisely leaving no mess behind
Doubles up as a paperweight as well, maintaining an organized desk
What we dislike
The letter cutter is not versatile enough to deal with intricate mail or bulkier packages
8. Everlasting All-Metal Pencil
Called the Everlasting All-Metal Pencil, this little pencil is an essential addition to your work desk. You can now bid farewell to the mundane cycle of pencil sharpening and dealing with annoying mechanical leads. You can harness creative ideas, and let them flow freely without any hindrance.
This special pencil has been crafted with a special alloy core and has an aluminum body that doesn’t need to be sharpened. This pencil is a durable and practical writing instrument, and it leaves marks without causing any wear or tear to the core.
What we like
Can be easily erased with regular erases
Offers a seamless and smooth writing experience
What we dislike
Doesn’t offer the same grip and comfort as traditional wooden pencils
9. Japanese Drawing Pad
Japanese paper is known for its stunning and premium quality and is quite loved by designers and artists. If you want to add some beautiful Japanese paper to your workdesk, then you need to get your hands on the Japanese Drawing Pad!
This premium-quality pad allows you to jot down your thoughts and ideas without the fear of damaging the durable paper fibers. The pad builds an engaging, smooth, and relaxing writing experience.
What we like
The paper is micro-perforated, which makes the paper to tear
The pad is available in various colors and sizes, so you can pick the one that suits your drawing needs
What we dislike
Aesthetically it looks like an ordinary pad, but the high quality is an experience, nothing something that can be seen
10. ASMR Zen Ball
This cute-looking ball is called the ASMR Zen Ball, and it merges natural and engineered elements to build a space-inspired design that offers a calming experience to its users. It has a meteorite-inspired porous surface which can serve as an excellent absorbent surface for your aroma oils as well.
It is crafted from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy. It also doubles up as a fidget toy, which offers an interactive experience, allowing users to connect with the natural energy of the earth.
What we like
Functions as a fidget toy as well, which offers sensory stimulation
What we dislike
If the ball is not attached to the base, it can get rolling due to accidental bumps