Lighting designs are no longer boring and typically designed objects that do nothing but add light to a living space. A well-designed lighting fixture should not only have the ability to illuminate any living space but also add that extra oomph factor! I mean, of course, we need them to see in the dark, but as highly functional as they should be, a lighting fixture also needs to be aesthetically pleasing, adding an attractive and visually soothing element to your home or office space. And, a lighting fixture that we feel would make an excellent addition to your living space is the Meter Lamp by Pholc.
Swedish design brand Pholc teamed up with Danish design duo Maria Bruun and Anne Dorthe Vester to create a pair of lamps that are inspired by Japanese rice paper lanterns. Named One Meter and Half Meter inspired by their taller and shorter heights, the lamps have a statuesque and architectural quality.
The lamps have a unique solid base which is crafted from aluminum, and it perfectly contrasts with the translucent ribbed paper shade above, which emits a soft warm light. “We wanted to create a new interpretation of the classic rice paper lamp,” said Bruun. “A design sharing its lightness and softness but with a solid sculptural base. We explored contrasting materials to create a unique presence and sculptural reference.”
“The designers were given a directive to produce a floor lamp with a height of around one meter that emits a gentle and uniform ambient light,” said Maja Norburg, Pholc’s creative director. “The lamp should also serve as a captivating sculptural piece that sparks curiosity.” One Meter is designed to be used as a floor lamp owing to its height, while Half Meter is ideal to be used as a table lamp. Both lamps are stylish and exquisite, designed to be used as magnificent lighting designs for your home, that add some spark and character to your living space.
Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and if you’re in the mood to cook up a delicious and romantic dinner spread for your better half, then you’ve reached the right place. The key to preparing an amazing dinner is having a streamlined and efficient cooking process, which can be achieved with the help of the right kitchen appliances and tools. With the perfect kitchen accessories, you can create fantastic meals within no time, and with minimum hassles. And, we’ve curated a collection of unique, innovative, and functional kitchen tools for you. From a sheet pan that helps you prepare culinary masterpieces, to a pair of sleek kitchen shears – these are the useful tools you need in your kitchen with you!
1. Cheat Sheets
Called the Cheat Sheets, these oven-safe, non-stick silicone dividers are designed to transform oven cooking completely. They convert a single baking tray into a multi-compartment cooking surface, that allows you to prepare various dishes in one go while retaining their unique flavors and meeting their cooking requirements.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Cheat Sheets segregate a single sheet pain into a multi-portion culinary canvas, holding up to six small or three large portions. They’re excellent for family meals or weekly meal planning; if you own multiple sets of these, you can have real control and efficiency in the kitchen. They’re also great to prepare a versatile and luxurious Valentine’s Day meal for your partner!
What we like
Supports cooking multiple dishes simultaneously on one tray
Accommodates various portion sizes, suitable for individual or family meals, so you can have a truly efficient and well-structured kitchen
What we dislike
Made using silicone which tends to attract dust and grease, leading to a sticky surface if not used regularly
2. Iron Frying Plate
Named the Iron Frying Plate, this unique kitchen design can be utilized to serve your food or as a frying pan with a removable handle. You can cook a delicious dish on it and then serve the food in it as well for a wonderful Valentine’s Day dinner with your loved one!
The Iron Frying Plate is an innovative and super cool design as it merges both a frying pan and a serving plate. It is made using durable materials and provides a functional yet elegant solution for cooking and serving. It supports direct-from-the-pan serving and is a novel and ingenious way of cooking.
What we like
The wooden handle can be attached and detached when needed, creating a unique dual-functional product
What we dislike
Since the frying pan is made from iron, it is heavier than traditional frying pans and can be difficult to store and handle in smaller kitchens
3. Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors
Called the Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors, these sleek, black innovative kitchen shears cut through your food in a quick, easy, and efficient manner. They’re perfect to cut up some steak for your romantic Valentine’s Day dinner!
The scissors are black and possess an image of power and style, which lets them occupy an intimidating and impressive position in your kitchen space. The scissors can cut through veggies, pizza, steak, and more with finesse and style.
What we like
Features a specially designed curved serrated blade that ensures the meat is cut safely and effortlessly
The scissors are a multifunctional tool that supports precise cutting, which is integral for food prep
What we dislike
There are no different color options, so not an excellent option for users who want diverse varieties of color
4. Volt 12
Called the Volt 12, this compact, kitchen-and-outdoor-friendly oven lets you make authentic New York and Neapolitan-style pizza pies for your special Valentine’s Day meal with your partner. It is the electric version of Ooni’s super successful pizza ovens!
Why is it noteworthy?
The Volt 12 eliminates the need for a massive brick oven, it even reaches temperatures of up to 850°F, letting you bake the perfect pizza pie in 90 seconds, much like your favorite pizzeria!
What we like
Doesn’t need firewood or gas to heat up
What we dislike
Has a small door opening and a cooking surface
Loses heat pretty quickly
5. Seer Perfecta Grill
This unique AI-powered grill uses an AI system called NeuralFire to identify up to 50 types of food items, allowing it to adjust the time, temperature, and other settings, with respect to the particular item.
Why is it noteworthy?
The user-friendly onboard display keeps you informed about the cooking progress, so you can kick back and relax while the magic happens.
What we like
Utilizes electricity and propane to power the infrared burners on the left and right
What we dislike
Currently, in the development phase, we will have to see how the final product turns out
6. Kurenai Kitchen Knife
This beautiful Kurenai kitchen knife is the result of storied tradition, craftsmanship, and sharp modern aesthetics. It is truly a far cry from the boring old kitchen knives you find on the market, owing to its mesmerizing flame pattern along its sharpened edge.
Why is it noteworthy?
The knife features a unique flame pattern which is a lovely tribute to the knife’s flame-forged origin, as well as the fiery passion and precision that were used to create it. The knife features a distinctive octagonal-shaped wooden handle that fits snugly into the user’s hand, irrespective of the size.
What we like
The knife perfectly combines functionality, craftsmanship, and aesthetics
What we dislike
It doesn’t have a ribbed knife option to support multiple cutting styles
7. Plate Grater
This revolutionary little design perfectly combines a plate’s functionality with a grater’s practicality. It is ideal for your Valentine’s Day dinner, as it lets you grate fresh ingredients onto your partner’s plate, adding a fresh touch to your V-Day meal.
This grater/plate design stands out for its dual functionality, as it functions both as a stylish plate and an efficient grater. Its design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical for grating fresh ingredients right at the table, adding a gourmet touch to your meals.
What we like
Allows you to grate fresh garnishes directly onto dishes
Elevates your dining experience by adding a gourmet touch
What we dislike
Users may not be used to its dual purpose, so it may require a period of adjustment
8. Good Grips Salad Dressing Shaker
If you’re in the mood to prepare a delicious and healthy salad for your romantic V-Day dinner, then you may want to consider this shaker and pourer by OXO. It is an exceptional modern solution for creating some yummy dressing without making an absolute mess in your kitchen.
What we like
The shaker is equipped with a wide top that can be unscrewed to add and mix a variety of ingredients like oil, vinegar, garlic, onions, and mayonnaise. The cup has measurements in ounces and milliliters to facilitate easy measuring.
What we like
Has a leakproof design, making it easy to use
Can be used to mix, serve, and prepare sauces and marinades
What we dislike
Seems a bit fragile and easily breakable, so needs to be handled with care
9. xBloom
And of course, the perfect way to wrap up a delicious V-Day meal is with a hot cup of joe! And if you’re looking to make the perfect cup of coffee, then look no further, all you need is the Tesla of Coffee Machines – the xBloom. It has a unique Autopilot feature that assists you in the art of making coffee.
Why is it noteworthy?
The xBloom is designed by ex-Apple employees, and it identifies, grinds, dispenses, brews, and pours your coffee for you. It utilizes the finest beans sourced from the top roasters worldwide, offering you and your partner the finest cup of coffee ever.
What we like
Feels as if a professional barista has made you a cup of coffee
Amped with NFC technology
What we dislike
The xBloom does not accommodate instant coffee, which is inconvenient for instant coffee drinkers
10. Playful Palm Grater
Coined the Playful Palm Grater, this playful little product was designed to add some functional fun to your kitchen space, and dining experience. It fits snugly into the palm of your hand.
It is a charming and functional product that resembles a curled piece of paper. Made from a single aluminum alloy plate, it is available in different color options, so you can pick the one that suits your dining/kitchen space.
What we like
Features a unique and minimal form that provides a firm grip
Makes a simple act like grating fun and playful, as well as convenient and efficient
What we dislike
Since it is quite small in size, it isn’t the best option to grate large amounts of food
The beauty, magic, and sheer genuis of tiny homes took us by storm a couple of years ago, and it was a discovery that took the architecture world by storm. Since then, tiny homes have gained immense popularity, and been experimented with to create even better, more beautiful, and functional designs. Tiny homes are space-saving and eco-friendly, and they reduce the load on Mother Earth, while managing to look super cute. And, an excellent tiny home that I recently came across is the Paddock Paradise.
Designed by Acorn Tiny Homes, the Paddock paradise is a towable dwelling that features a spacious interior layout that’s equipped with storage space, and loads of amazing home comforts, including a couple for the owner’s cat. It is founded on a triple-axle gooseneck trailer, and finished in metal siding and faux stone. The trailer has a length of 38 feet, and it is quite big for a tiny home. It features a width of 10 ft, and it does require a permit to be towed on a public road in North America, but this also makes it a spacious dwelling, with a very house-esque style and layout.
There are two entrances into the Paddock Paradise. Accessing the home through the main entrance, visitors find a well-proportioned living room. This is taken up by an L-shaped sofa, plus a fireplace, TV, and shelving. In a neat touch, the fireplace mantelpiece is actually an operable drawer.
Two entrances lead you to Paddock Paradise. You can enter the home via the main entrance, wherein you are welcomed by a well-sized and designed living room. It holds a L-shaped sofa, TV, shelving, and fireplace. The fireplace mantelpiece is also an operable drawer, making it an innovative multifunctional design. The kitchen also holds the second entrance, which connects to a patio area. It features an oven with a three-burner propane-powered stove, as well as a pull-out pantry and a cat flap that offers easy access to a litter tray neatly concealed in the kitchen unit. The home also includes a series of walkways and tunnels through the upper section of the home, forming a cozy and playful living space for cats.
If you’ve recently done up your home, or are simply looking to rejuvenate your current interior decor, then you may want to consider adding a few bespoke and uplifting lighting designs. A beautifully designed lighting fixture can completely uplift and elevate a living space! A well-designed lighting fixture should not only be able to efficiently illuminate any living space but also add that extra oomph factor! I mean, of course, we need them to see in the dark, but as highly functional as they should be, a lighting fixture also needs to be aesthetically pleasing, adding an attractive and visually soothing element to your home or office space. And, a lighting design that would make a fitting addition to your home is the Flamingo Mini lighting by Antoni Arola for Vibia.
Designed by Barcelona-based designer Antoni Arola for Vibia, the Flamingo Mini light is a deconstructed pendant light that utilizes polycarbonate diffusers to cast an ethereal and customizable glow. It was designed by Arola to capture and portray the poise, elegance, and grace of the bird after which it is named.
The Flamingo Mini light is made using a cylindrical LED light, which artfully hangs on stainless steel rods, and emits light through subtle layers of translucent polycarbonate diffusers. “Flamingo Mini’s delicate, deconstructed silhouette expresses a sense of extreme lightness,” said Vibia. “By separating the light source from the diffusers, light is projected onto each shade rather than surrounding the source, resulting in an ethereal, weightless effect.”
The polycarbonate diffusers are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, and they can be arranged to suit the proportions of the space they are placed in. The light source can be directed in an upward direction to create an ambient flow, or it can be pointed downwards to produce an intimate illumination – for example over a dining table. Flamingo Mini is a smaller version of the brand’s Flamingo product, and it is designed for smaller rooms with lower ceilings.
If you’re a creative person, then you’re bound to spend a substantial amount of your time at the desk. You either type away to glory or even have your meals on there. Hence, it’s important to have a unique and innovative desk design that perfectly meets your creative thinking needs and working styles. The perfect desk can put you in the right mindset, helping your creative juices flow seamlessly, while also pushing you to achieve your daily productivity goals and complete your tasks. And, we’ve put together a collection of innovative, well-designed, and highly functional desk designs that will make a great fit for your office. Have a look!
1. The Time Table
This desk is truly unique and one-of-a-kind as it makes the passing of time visible and tangible, allowing you to maintain and build a personal relationship with the time you invest in activities, projects, and other work.
Why is it noteworthy?
It features a sub-table, which moves up and down, changing its elevation as time passes before returning to its base state at the lowest point. Think of it as a time, like a reverse hourglass, that slowly demonstrates the movement of time visually.
What we like
It enables you to log and measure time and be aware of how much time you’re spending there, allowing creative people to take a much-needed break from their work
What we dislike
The desk could also become a bit distracting for those who have issues with focusing
2. DEN Desk
Called the DEN Desk, this unique and innovative desk is a perfect fit for creative thinkers, as it lets them build their desk just the way they like it! With the Den Desk, it feels like you’re playing with LEGO!
Why is it noteworthy?
You can start with the most basic setup and then grow your desk by adding other parts or accessories, from monitor mounts to even a cabinet on the side. You can slot in a desktop at an angle, and build a corner desk if you like!
What we like
You can assemble and disassemble the various pieces with relative ease, allowing you to build a desk that caters to your needs and requirements
What we dislike
Bulky, space-consuming design that is not an ideal fit for homes with space constraints
3. Buddyhub Desk
Creative thinkers and workers often need their own space to think and come up with fresh ideas, they need the chance to detach from the rest of the world. Dubbed the Buddyhub Desk, this cozy-looking, round-edged desk is great for giving you some private space. It features a sound-absorbing fabric panel that is wrapped around the outer edge.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Buddyhub Desk works as a private cocoon, allowing you to work without being disturbed by other employees. The innovative sound-absorbing fabric panel is available in a range of soft and pastel colors, creating a colorful and cute desk.
What we like
Can be customized with a wide range of optional accessories
What we dislike
There are similar designs in the market, nothing to make it really stand out
4. Linea Desk
The Italian furniture brand Porro created the Linea collection that was designed by late postmodernist architect and designer Medini a couple of years ago. The collection includes a quirky and colorful writing desk that is ideal for those who need to indulge in some creative writing.
Why is it noteworthy?
Mendini created the designs by defining them with stunning cellulose acetate surfaces that feature inlays in primary colors. The writing desk is an excellent space to write and get your creative juices flowing.
What we like
Characterized by bold and bright colors, with playful contrasts between light and dark colors
What we dislike
The aesthetics may be considered too quirky by some people, and not preferred by everyone, as it may not suit all interior styles
5. The eFloat Go 2.0
Called the eFloat Go 2.0 is the perfect adjustable standup desk built for those creative thinkers and workers who spend hours on their desks without really moving. The desk is simple and precise, and equipped with advanced anti-collision sensors.
Why is it noteworthy?
The eFloat Go 2.0 consists of a height-adjustable table base equipped with updated sit/stand technology. Anti-collision sensors and quiet motors were added to the desk to ensure smooth and hassle-free transitions between both modes.
What we like
The desk is easy and efficient to install while also having a wide range of work surfaces and depths
What we dislike
The desk has metallic and sharp edges, so not advisable to be placed around children
6. Pill Writing Desk
The Pill Writing Desk is a unique and innovative desk design with an unusual shape that’s quite eye-catching when closed, and super functional when open. It works as a furniture design, while also looking like minimalist art.
Why is it noteworthy?
It has a unique circular form that comes firmly wall-mounted, which makes it quite comparable to a wall-hung painting rather than a 4-legged floor-resting desk.
What we like
Features an upper semicircle that functions as a writing space with enough storage for your belongings
What we dislike
Because of its unique shape, the desk looks difficult to clean and maintain
7. Intermodality Desk
The Intermodality desk is inspired by the prominent and impressive role and place of grand pianos in homes. It features a design that follows the cues of the large instrument, the shape and size is much like that of a piano.
Why is it noteworthy?
Crafted from antiqued plywood, the desk has a creative and unique design, making it an excellent fit for creative employees, who need a dose of inspiration whenever they enter their office.
What we like
Features copper trimmings that add a touch of finesse to the desk
What we dislike
The desk is quite big and bulky and isn’t well-suited for smaller homes
8. Axis
This desk is another excellent option for the creative workers out there! Dubbed Axis, this mechanical standing desk concept enables you to enjoy the perks of a healthy working lifestyle without breaking the bank. It doubles up as a temporary bookshelf for those who love reading to support a creative line of thinking.
Why is it noteworthy?
It makes use of a simple axis mechanism, which allows the larger desk surface to move up or down as needed. A part of the desk also remains in position and is a great place to store supplies, books, and organizers.
What we like
Doubles up as a temporary bookshelf
Replacement parts are easy and cheap to purchase
What we dislike
There is the risk of objects falling/rolling off the desk when we transform the desk
9. Nice Chair
This unique-looking chair is intended to be a disassembled chair and it is called the Nice Chair! The Nice Chair is designed to occupy minimum space and can be easily assembled and disassembled, and it features a desk surface, allowing it to function as a workspace as well.
Why is it noteworthy?
What makes the Nice Chair unique and innovative is that it can function as a rocker, or as an ordinary chair to sit on, or as a workspace. You can also slide a tabletop between the ridges on the arms of the chair, to convert it into a workspace, that can hold and store your work accessories.
What we like
Multifunctional furniture design that can switch between two different modes
What we dislike
There is no way to stop the chair from rocking while working it seems, which can be annoying and distracting
10. Sui Desk Chair
If you’re a creative person, you probably prefer creative and out-of-the-box designs, and the Sui Desk Chair is one such design. It can transform into a working desk from a casual chair, allowing you to either work on it or sip some coffee and read your favorite book.
Why is it noteworthy?
It has a hybrid and multi-purpose structure, and it allows you to have freedom of movement, even though it is a desk design. It provides you with private and semi-public spaces, depending on how you want it to swivel.
What we like
Made using wood that is “grown with respect for the land” and metal parts that are built from 99% recyclable steel, making it an eco-friendly furniture option
What we dislike
Could make your sedentary lifestyle more sedentary if you already have one, making it tough to move around
Japanese culture and history have always been a source of inspiration for the entire design world. We see Japan-inspired designs in almost every aspect of our lives, so why not in the world of LEGO?! Japanese culture has managed to inspire many talented LEGO builders around the world, resulting in beautiful creations that perfectly capture the essence and spirit of Japan. From a bowl of steaming hot ramen to the traditional Shogun Armour, LEGO master builders have managed to capture them all in the form of exquisite and intricately built LEGO constructions. Dive in!
1. LEGO Ramen Bowl
Micdud’s LEGO Ramen Bowl is made using LEGO bricks and it looks super realistic! “The model was designed, as a fully customizable construction, thanks to a wide selection of ingredients,” says LEGO builder Micdud. The ramen bowl includes a “bamboo” roll-out pad, a stunning “ceramic” bowl made with intricate details, as well as chopsticks that are hidden in a decorated “paper” wrapping. It also includes a special chirirenge spoon!
2. LEGO Cherry Blossom
These lovely LEGO Cherry Blossoms are designed to get you ready for Spring! The LEGO build features two buildable cherry blossom twigs that can you mix and match to create some pretty white and pink blooms. You need to build the flowers with the 438 pieces that come with the set, to build two twigs that measure up to 14 inches.
3. The Great Wave of Kanagawa
The Great Wave of Kanagawa is one of the most iconic paintings in the art world. It is a lovely and significant hallmark of Japan’s Ukioy-e art movement, and LEGO Art’s interpretation of it includes plastic blocks and a brick count of 1810 pieces. The build also includes a special brick that holds artist Hokusai’s signature! It makes use of multiple dot-shaped bricks that give the painting a pointillism effect.
4. LEGO Sushi Board
If you’re a sushi lover, then this LEGO Sushi Board is a dream come true for you! Made using 1348 pieces, this sushi board is accompanied by matching chopsticks, 6 types of sushi, ginger, wasabi, as well as a matching bowl of soy sauce. The objects aren’t attached to the board, and they can be moved around and arranged, creating an interactive and adorable sushi experience. The sushi includes – one regular and one vegetarian maki roll, a regular uramaki roll, a shrimp nigiri, a salmon nigiri, and an egg nigiri!
5. LEGO Toyota GR Supra
To celebrate the iconic Toyota GR Supra’s 35th anniversary a few years ago, LEGO Japan, LEGOLAND Japan, and Toyota Gazoo Racing created a life-size replica of the sports car. The LEGO version was wider than the original automotive and weighed more as well – almost 4156 pounds. The car was almost entirely made of LEGO bricks, which was truly a commendable and impressive sight, whether you’re a LEGO fan or not!
6. LEGO Girls In Kimonos
Inspired by a summer trip to Japan, LEGO builder The DriXx built two girls in kimonos and traditional Japanese accessories using LEGO bricks! One of the kimonos was embossed with cherry blossoms, while the other one was inspired by cranes and flowers. He wanted to capture the sight of people wearing yukatas or summer kimonos during the summer festival, with everyone walking around cheerfully. He used flower pieces and rounded tiles for the intricate and beautiful patterning of the kimonos.
7. LEGO Eventide
This 2486-piece LEGO mosaic signifies eventide- 宵 (you), which is a Kanji character symbolic of the hours of the evening until midnight. The character also represents the eve of an event, particularly festivals. The LEGO build was created to celebrate the many flower festivals that are held in Japan, and the beautiful flower motif blossoming from the setting sun is meant to signify the growing excitement and merriment on the eve of festivals.
8. LEGO Japanese Koi Fish Pond
LEGO builder ToboPro created a LEGO koi fish pond with koi that swims around if you rotate the handle. Koi fish have a lot of significant value and meaning in Japanese culture. They represent perseverance, luck, love, and prosperity, and ToboPro wanted to translate these meaningful concepts into a tangible build made using 1970 pieces. The pond is decorated with bamboo and other greenery.
9. LEGO Shogun Armour
This beautiful ornate shogun design by Mohamed Marei artfully uses a balance of LEGO Technic and System parts. Each LEGO piece has been chosen to beautifully replicate the plated nature of the ancient Japanese armor, creating a design that is divine looking. Mohamed used all types of gold 1×1 round plates in this build. Tread pieces were also used around the arms above the elbow and at the base of the warrior’s kusazuri.
10. LEGO Soba Noodle Bowl
Build by LEGO builder John Snyder this bowl of soba noodles looks so yummy and appealing, it almost looks real! John wanted to build radish slices, and slowly and steadily he created a whole bowl of noodles. He inserted bicycle wheels into inverted radar dishes to create the radish slices. The chopsticks are made from LEGO as well, and the color balancing is perfect, really making the entire dish stand out.
I’ve spent much time in the beautiful beach town of Goa, India, which truly has a special place in my heart. Coconut trees, salty air, restless waves, and red sandy paths adorn the region. The architecture is a mix of old and new, with traces of the Portuguese influence interwoven with modern Indian-influenced structures. Nestled in the vibrant and lush tropical area of North Goa is a beautiful new restaurant dubbed Como Agua. It provides patrons with stunning views across the Vagator cliffs, allowing them to admire the mesmerizing sea from an impressive elevated location.
Designer: Otherworlds
Designed by the architects at Otherworlds, Como Agua is tucked away on an elevated perch, offering the restaurant a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding landscape and sea. The bar is adorned with two large nests at the top, making it a truly unique and innovative structure. The oversized nests give the restaurant an Amazonian vibe, offering the impression that you’ve walked into the tropics.
It occupies 3750 square meters, and is a vivacious open-air design built from bamboo and Lantana camera – an invasive flowering shrub that torments the local flora and fauna. The founder of Otherworlds, Arko Saha said that the plant “has invaded over 40 percent of the Western Ghats, a total of 13 million hectares of Indian landscape. Arriving in India as an ornamental plant in the early 1800s, lantana has escaped from gardens and taken over entire ecosystems.”
It’s quite interesting to see how they’ve utilized a shrub species that was wreaking havoc on the floral fauna and transformed it into a harmonious and integral element of the building. The architectural team wrapped the Lantana camera around the metal railings, bar, partitions, and canopies to build unique interlaced structures that look as if they’ve been built by weaverbirds!
The team says that – “The weavers are social birds, usually nesting and feeding in colonies. They collect all sorts of natural materials like twigs, fibers, and leaves to weave a membrane that acts as their nest, usually hanging from the branch of a tree. Materials used for building nests include fine leaf fibers, grass, and twigs. Many species weave very fine nests using thin strands of leaf fiber, though some, like the buffalo-weavers, form massive untidy stick nests in their colonies, which may have spherical woven nests within.”
Winter is by far my favorite season of the year, as the temperature drops, my excitement rises! Chilly nights followed by frosty mornings, cozy naps in bed with blankets wrapped around me, and cups of hot cocoa – it all sounds like heaven to me. As blissful and beautiful as winter can be, it can also be harsh on our bodies and our lifestyles, if we don’t equip ourselves for it. So, we’ve curated a bunch of super interesting and functional tech designs to get you through this winter season…in style! These innovative designs are the ultimate winter essentials for you.
1. Tornado
NextNova has designed something pretty awesome – a terracotta heater with a unique airflow pattern that creates an impressive tower of fire that heats your home, while also having the option to distribute a fragrance of your choice.
Why is it noteworthy?
Dubbed the Tornado, this terracotta-based heater merges the charm of a fireplace with the safety of a scented candle. It works based on airflow and the thermal properties of baked clay to produce radiating heat for the outdoors and the indoors. It burns bioethanol utilizing ceramic wool as a substrate.
What we like
Outputs 7000 BTU (British Thermal Units) of heat
Mimics the effect of a fireplace without the danger and hazards of smoke or a disaster
What we dislike
There is open space on the top, and on one side, so it could be dangerous for kids and pets when placed indoors
2. Bio Heater
Called the Bio Heater, this innovative appliance provides an ingenious and novel way to make excellent and judicious use of cooking oil that would otherwise be wasted after use. Designed by Unichest for their client Flint Lab, the Bio Heater is a unique solution that employs cooking oil as fuel.
Why is it noteworthy?
It uses cooking oil to produce an eco-friendly fuel for the Bio Heater. It is equipped with a combustion technology under its belly which transfers heat energy, which is then further radiated in the room.
What we like
Features a minimal and clean design that perfectly merges with modern homes
The rounded top can be used to hold items when not in use
What we dislike
Bulky and space-consuming design, not intended for smaller homes
3. Hotdog Hand Warmer
The Hotdog Hand Warmer is designed to warm your hand with the appearance of a cute dog’s face. Although it’s not easy to catch the resemblance easily, once you do, you really can’t unsee it. It is the kind of design that will be appreciated by people of all ages, including kids who have no idea about different breeds.
Why is it noteworthy?
The hand warmer isn’t just a “hot dog”, it is an easy-to-use hand warmer, that can be charged via USB from a power bank or even a smartphone, making the device pretty portable and usable almost anywhere. It features a simple slider to switch between off and two heat settings to suit your needs and comfort levels.
What we like
Delivers warmth while also providing an emotional and adorable experience
What we dislike
The dog’s ear or nose doesn’t function as buttons
It isn’t exactly a revolutionary design
4. Thermaphones
The Thermaphones are an innovative pair of cans created to alter the temperature to nullify the effect of both a super hot day or a super chilly winter. They’re designed by Kevin Chiam.
Why is it noteworthy?
The headphones have a unique hybrid design, and the temperature-changing earbuds offer unique thermal comfort. The earcups on the headphones are super cozy and comfy.
What we like
Eradicates any chances of vertigo induced by the extreme variation in temperature
It provides you comfort during the winter and summer
What we dislike
It’s a concept, so we don’t know how the final tangible product will turn out to be, and how effective it will be
5. POCO
Called POCO: Portable Capsule Coffee Machine, this compact and lightweight device can be slid easily into your backpack or bag along with coffee pods, making it a great coffee maker on the go for the winter.
Why is it noteworthy?
You can recharge POCO via a USB-C, charging it on the go using your laptop or a portable charger, making it an excellent device for those who are always on the move.
What we like
Features a built-in thermal insulation function
Allows you to enjoy a cup of coffee anytime anywhere
What we dislike
Since it’s a concept we don’t know how functional and credible it will be as an actual product
6. Breeze Desktop Hand Warmer
Named the Breez desktop hand warmer, this little device makes texting in the cold super easy and efficient. The desktop hand warmer makes using your keyboard a breeze!
Why is it noteworthy?
Designed to keep your fingers warm and toasty, the Breez desktop hand warmer lets you clack away on your keyboard without feeling cold. It features a horizontal form that uniformly warms your hand as you type.
What we like
The hand warmer covers the entire keyboard making sure there are no cold zones or spots
What we dislike
There aren’t any color options, besides pastel blue, so not a lot of variety
7. Fire Safe
The Fire Safe is an envelope-sized, portable fire and cooking companion that lets you create a warm and comfy fire wherever and whenever you like. It creates communal campfires and cooking experiences with friends and family.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Fire Safe builds quaint campfire and cooking experiences while minimizing the environmental footprints left behind by typical campfires. It features a hinged collapsible design.
What we like
Lightweight and slim design
Portable and easy-to-carry design
What we dislike
It is built from stainless steel, which cause a unique patina to form over time, which may not be preferred by all users and their myriad tastes
8. Hearth
Dubbed Hearth, this stylish but normal table with a black tabletop is designed to be a stunning centerpiece in its dormant state, but also as an electric fireplace in its activated state. It has a tapered and shuttered base to evoke images of a burning fire.
Why is it noteworthy?
The glow that comes from within the heater provides a warm and soft light that feels like an alluring and open invitation for families and friends to huddle together and spend some quality time together, much like what people did in ancient times.
What we like
Multifunctional design that works as a fireplace and a coffee table
What we dislike
It’s a concept so we don’t know how well it’ll translate into an actual product
9. UZE Heated Jacket
Called the UZE Heated Jacket, this unique and innovative jacket totally changes the jacket game, by letting you wear it in all four seasons, while also giving you the power to decide how warm you wanna get.
Why is it noteworthy?
It features four graphene heat zones and three heat settings of 120°F, 140°F, and 160°F, so you don’t have to search for the right jacket when it gets colder or warmer. By simply pressing a button, you can select the level of warmth that will make you feel comfy.
What we like
Can keep you warm for up to 10 hours and charges in 45 minutes
What we dislike
Aesthetics are quite dull, they could be worked upon
10. BioLite Firepit
Called the BioLite Firepit, this smoke-less wood burner lets users have a little glance into whatever is going on inside the fire. The pit doesn’t need any chemical fuel or gas to build a great fire.
Why is it noteworthy?
The firepit utilizes standard wood mixed with some clever engineering, which basically involves air being injected through 51 air jets, which maintains a uniform temperature throughout the firepit, providing improved combustion.
What we like
It is equipped with 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, otherwise it is useless
Electronic bikes have taken the automobile industry by storm! Living a more sustainable and conscious life has become imperative, with life on Earth getting more and more difficult. Curbing fuel consumption, and reducing automotive emissions has become critical, and e-bikes are an environment-friendly option, encouraging these practices. With the e-bike craze gaining momentum, designers have been coming up with innovative and super cool e-bike designs, and we’ve collected a few for you. Dive in!
1. Diode
Designed by Tien Hung, this e-bike concept is called the Diode, and it features a neo-minimalistic design that pays tribute to the future of the electric power train. The form of the bike is practically invisible, except for one singular horizontal pillar that smoothly runs from the dashboard to the taillight and a massive battery module that is nestled underneath it. It also features a powerful rear-wheel drivetrain and a comfy set.
2. MOQBA
Dubbed the MOQBA, this concept design is an e-scooter/bike that can climb stairs! It is designed to be a next-generation mobility ride for those who often face difficulty in mobility. It is not intended to be a two-wheel wonder, rather it rides on four independent legs with wheel extensions. It can be categorized as an innovative mini mecha for the future! Although at the moment, it does seem a bit far-fetched, it could have valuable utility in the future.
3. Mimic E-bike
The MIMIC e-bike is a powerful electric power that looks like a crouching jungle cat of a bike and was designed by Roman Dolzhenko. It is outfitted with a body that looks more like armor and comes with a rounded Tron Light Cycle-inspired form that is outfitted with rounded elements, and an overall absence of straight lines or sharp edges.
4. Pro.Zui
The Pro.Zui is something between a scooter, a moped, and an e-bike. Designed to be a daily commuter, it features a sleek design aesthetic amped up by cutting-edge technology, providing users with an incredible riding experience. It can cover a range of 120 kilometers on a single charge from an advanced electric battery. It utilizes state-of-the-art battery technology, supporting a reliable and long-lasting journey.
5. Porsche 619 Concept
Designed by Jackson Zhang, the Porsche 619 electric concept is an exciting response to Porsche’s plans to go electric by 2030. The 619 is the first proper electric motorcycle we’ve seen, and it features a unique design, putting Porsche’s automotive DNA in the backseat, while also creating something minimalist, geometry-driven, and iconic! It features a segmented LED matrix headlight like the one seen in the Taycan, while the seat features the word “Porsche” on the outer cover.
6. The Project M³ Concept Motorbike
Called the Project M³ concept motorbike, this automotive is designed by Richard Huang and features an ingrained biomimicry for motorheads. It has a head inspired by the dolphin, and the electric motor onboard is charged using a blowhole-like nose, imparting a lifelike presence to it. The dolphin is mirrored on the toothed wheel rims, and the front headlights section too.
7. The Mantis
Named the Mantis, and called a MiniBike, this compact little two-wheeler is an urban commuting dream. It seats one person and lets the rider easily and swiftly cover distances. It features a unique, horizontal frame with a seat and handlebars at the same level, and it also features a detachable and replaceable battery that can be packed right underneath the seat.
8. BMW G7 Scrambler
Coined the BMW G7 Scrambler, this electric bike with a Z-shaped frame, a bottom-heavy design, a cantilever seat, and a stunning headlight, is truly the words “if looks could kill” come to life! It is a unique-looking concept that comes with a choice between a fuel-based and electric powertrain, although both variants look identical on the outside.
9. Colibri M22
Petre Georgescu designed an electric bike that can reach the farthest on a single charge! Called the Colibri M22, this foldable electric moped can get you as far as 200km without having to recharge. Once you’re done commuting, you can easily fold and store the e-bike somewhere, for example under stairways, or in a storage area as it features compact mechanisms that can be neatly folded away.
10. 2029 E-Bike
Inspired by the revolutionary design of the 1929 Majestic built by George Roy, this 2029 e-bike combines art-deco and automotive design to build an innovative design that features clean-cut geometric shapes that are created by sheet-metal fabrication, alongside bone-inspired generative-design details that have been 3D printed in metal.
We’ve been seeing a torrential and exciting downpour of automotive designs at Yanko Design for the past few months. Each automotive was innovative, bringing to us something we had never seen nor experienced before. From killer speed to dashing good looks, to impenetrable safety standards, every automotive we featured at YD broke some design barrier for us, and hopefully, they did the same for you as well. Hence, we’ve curated a collection of automotive designs that we feel were the best of the lot. From a bicycle with square wheels to an eVTOL aircraft that doesn’t need a pilot’s license– each of these drool-worthy automobiles is mercilessly pushing the boundaries of the automotive industry. Automotive enthusiasts will be itching to get their hands on them, and take them for a spin on the streets!
1. Ford Mini Bronco
Designed by Mexico-based Kobayashi, the Ford Mini Bronco gives us a thrilling glance into the year 2030 – the year which this unique and mindblowing car has been designed for. The Mini Bronco is equipped with modern elements, amped by a compact, two-door configuration, which brings to mind the Suzuki Jimny. The automotive is designed to redefine the off-road segment, by offering it with a refreshing and rather unique perspective.
2. Palladio
Dubbed Palladio, this concept for a hybrid yacht is designed to be ultra-light and can speed up to 55 knots maximum. It looks straight out of a sci-fi movie set in water and features a futuristic, mouth-shaped, avant-garde design that gives the impression that a pod is cruising through the waters. The yacht is made from carbon fiber propelled via twin Castoldi jets, and powered by two FTP engines.
3. Vanderer Citroën 2CV Electric Mini Camper Van
Vanderer is a niche automotive design firm that recently designed a beautiful electric mini camper van inspired by the iconic Citroën 2CV. The classic 2CV was given a futuristic transformation, harmoniously merging the charm of the past with the sustainability of the present. It features an integrated electric powertrain and provides a clean and eco-friendly driving experience.
4. Gordieiev’s Bicycle with Square Wheels
Say hello to the bicycle with square wheels. Designed by Sergii Gordieiev, this innovative bicycle is like a war tank moving on its metal tracks without any wheels! The wheels on the bicycle don’t roll, but instead, the rubber on the conveyor belt-like platform rotates as soon as you hit your foot on the pedal. It is completely usable in a city, and you can take turns on it.
5. Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL Flying Car
Called the Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL Flying Car, this eVTOL flying car is designed and developed by AeroHT electric aviation wing of the Chinese auto company XPeng. Unlike most of the traditional ideas found on the market, this modular flying car has a unique and different approach, it features a two-part design – one part car, and the other an eVTOL, allowing it to seamlessly switch between land and aerial modes.
6. Helix
Dubbed Helix, this lightweight electric VTROL aircraft is designed by a Palo Alto, California-based company Pivotal, and it has been in the works for about a decade. It doesn’t need a runway or pilot’s license to go airborne! It features fixed rotors and tandem wings, and is a single-seat aircraft that can be flown without an FAA pilot certification!
7. 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.
8. Renault 5 E-Tech
The French carmaker Renault debated its iconic sports car in a retro-modern avatar called the Renault 5 E-Tech. The modernized and cute version carries the same fun and styling in an eco-friendly version. It has more rugged wheel arches, as well as a boxier body frame and a flowing soft-top roof. The original bonnet air intake has been morphed into a charging port.
9. Mitsubishi DX Concept
Dubbed the Mitsubishi DX Concept, this compact and versatile lifestyle van is designed to perfectly portray the company’s commitment to boosting the arena of adventure travel. It is called the “tiny adventure van”, and has a rather futuristic and innovative design. It was presented at the Japanese Mobility Show, a show that focuses on awakening the “adventurous spirit within”.
10. Adventure Electric Unicycle
The Adventure electric unicycle was truly designed to push the boundaries of exploration! It features a beefy 4000 W motor capable of producing 200 Nm (147.5 lb. ft) of torque and 850 N traction force. This converts it into a powerful commuter that is ready to conquer steep inclines and uneven terrain with the utmost ease and efficiency! It accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and goes at a top speed of 110 km/h.
