Pens, regardless of design, are almost always associated with productivity and creativity, in other words, activity. While you can use the writing instrument to clear your head and achieve a state of calm, that’s only after you’ve actively used it. Rarely does a pen by its mere appearance actually take you to that state, but that is exactly what this unique-looking pen tries to accomplish. Using not only visuals but also texture, this Japanese-made pen aims to help you become mindful of the present, even if only for a moment, taking inspiration from the easily distinguishable composition of a Zen garden, sand and stone and all.
It’s almost miraculous how a dry landscape and a meticulous arrangement of stone in gravel or sand can nudge the mind into a meditative state. That, however, is the magic and science that Zen Buddhist monks have discovered and developed over centuries, combining contrasting elements, minimalist arrangements, and natural elements to design a space meant to inspire calm and maybe clear a few cobwebs inside the brain. The stillness of the rock standing amid the thin lines of movement drawn on gravel around it, the smoothness of the pebbles contrasting with the coarseness of the sand, and the presence of living trees or shrubs standing defiant on lifeless ground, all these elements work in harmony to take the mind for a peaceful journey.
These rock gardens have become so popular that a few people have miniature Zen gardens on shelves or even their desks, but they can neither take these with them wherever they go nor always have them available when they need to. The Zen Pen tries to bring that same experience to an even smaller scale by recreating the key elements of a Zen garden in a way that you can see and feel in your hand. A part of that is clearly seen in the 3D-printed grooves that snake around the barrel and the cap, easily reminiscent of the thin lines and circles drawn on a rock garden.
It doesn’t stop there, however. The clip, which is often regarded as a utilitarian element, also contributes to the composition. Its smooth, oval shape is like one of those rocks or pebbles lying on the gravel, and you can see the typical circles radiating from its position. That position is actually off-center, doubling down on the contrasting themes of balance and asymmetry associated with Zen gardens.
The Zen Pen isn’t just a visual treat but also a tactile one, thanks to the handiwork of skilled Japanese craftsmen utilizing modern technologies like 3D printing and milling. While the grip near the nib is smooth and plain in order to be comfortable to hold, the rest of the barrel and the cap feature this textured surface that delights the fingertips. And as many variations of fidget toys have proven, mindlessly stimulating those fingers, even just by gliding over those grooves, can also help stimulate the mind.
The Moto G Stylus 5G has made a remarkable entrance into the smartphone market, offering a unique blend of productivity-enhancing features and creative tools. This device is not merely a phone but a versatile instrument that caters to the needs of professionals, artists, and everyday users alike. The built-in stylus, a hallmark feature of the […]
Using multiple desktops on Windows can significantly enhance your productivity by allowing you to organize open applications and documents into separate virtual workspaces. This feature is especially useful for managing different tasks or projects simultaneously without cluttering a single desktop. Here’s how you can start using multiple desktops on Windows: How to create multiple desktops […]
In the era of smartphone cameras and powerful mobile editing apps like CapCut, creating captivating iPhone videos has become more accessible than ever. By leveraging a combination of in-camera techniques and digital transitions, you can take your video storytelling to new heights, engaging your audience with professional-looking content. This guide will walk you through the […]
The difference between a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) primarily lies in their design and functionality. CPUs are designed to handle a wide range of computing tasks, whereas GPUs are specialized for processing large blocks of visual data and complex algorithms simultaneously. Here are the main points of distinction: Key […]
The EasySMX M05 is a prime example of a mobile gaming controller that aims to transform the way we play games on our phones. With its adjustable design, the M05 can securely hold a wide variety of smartphones, ensuring compatibility across different models and brands. The controller’s ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip during extended […]
Prefabricated construction involves manufacturing building components in a controlled factory environment and then transporting them to the site for assembly and finishing. Innovations in manufacturing, coupled with a growing emphasis on sustainability, have empowered companies to develop prefabricated solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial structures worldwide. Explore the benefits of prefabricated construction.
Prefabrication materials, such as precast concrete panels and light-gauge steel frames, are renowned for their exceptional durability, specifically engineered for extended transport to the site. Notably, they eliminate issues commonly associated with traditional materials like efflorescence on bricks.
2. Rapid Construction
Prefab homes, whether modular or panelized, have an off-site assembly, reducing on-site attachment time significantly compared to traditional stick-built homes. As a result, prefab homes are usually the quickest option for homeowners needing to adhere to tight construction timelines. Employing pre-assembled frames can cut construction time in half compared to traditional methods. Panels can be cast simultaneously with foundation work, and essential elements like insulation are already integrated, simplifying the process.
Brette Haus prefabricated cabins redefine “Home Delivery” by arriving directly on a trailer to the location. Within 3 hours, these cabins unfold and secure into livable spaces spanning 22 to 47 sq. ft. Crafted from carbon-neutral, weather-proof cross-laminated timber, each cabin takes 8 weeks to fabricate. With no need for a permanent foundation, they easily unfold on leveled ground and secure with screw piles. Featuring hinges enduring up to 100 folding cycles, these cabins offer exceptional portability. Optional add-ons like waste tanks and solar panels enable comfortable off-grid living.
3. Quality Control
Given the difficulty of controlling quantity at the construction site, the prefab manufacturing process facilitates individual quality checks for prefabricated components before dispatch. This ensures that essential standards such as fire resistance or heat insulation are met before construction begins.
The House in Chamois caters to outdoor enthusiasts, blending seamlessly with the alpine landscape while prioritizing environmental sustainability and robust security against extreme weather. Its modular design allows for versatile adaptation to various lifestyles, complemented by integrated furniture and warm interior details. With meticulous attention to detail, the house offers well-lit spaces conducive to personal expression and harmony with nature. Leap Factory’s innovative approach marks a significant shift towards zero-impact dwelling in the construction industry.
4. Affordable Construction
Prefabrication offers significant cost reduction potential. With standardized panel measurements, readily available off-the-shelf plans are common. Additionally, economies of scale from mass-produced and bulk-purchased prefabricated materials further contribute to savings.
Initially developed to address extreme homelessness in Los Angeles, ARCspace offers a diverse range of accommodation options ranging from 160 to 10,000 square feet. With the construction industry contributing to 28% of global emissions, ARCspace focuses on innovative designs and sustainable, cost-effective prefabricated homes. All ARCspace structures are prefabricated, resulting in efficient builds that minimize emissions and waste. Residents can personalize their homes with options for off-grid power and water, including Hydropanels and solar panels. ARCspace prioritizes energy efficiency and health-conscious features, utilizing eco-friendly materials and advanced technologies to create cleaner, more efficient, and equitable living environments.
5. Use of Sustainable Materials
Today’s prefabrication materials often use eco-friendly or recycled materials, like local timber or other sustainable options. They can switch materials as new techniques emerge to reduce harm to the environment and there is less waste from construction.
Minima is a 215-square-foot prefab module designed for versatility, serving as a tiny home or backyard addition. Constructed with sustainable CLT, it features a modern exterior with cypress battens and a steel roof. Inside, its Japandi-inspired layout maximizes space with integrated furniture and essential amenities. Compact yet stylish, Minima embodies sustainable, adaptable architecture.
6. Energy Efficient
Prefab homes prioritize energy efficiency by adhering to strict design guidelines, ensuring airtight seams that prevent leaks and airflow, resulting in long-term cost savings for homeowners. Additionally, as sustainability is gaining momentum among consumers, prefab home architects, designers, and contractors are integrating eco-friendly features like solar panels, wind turbines, and rainwater catchment systems into prefab home designs.
The Pi House, a shining example of prefab architecture, was assembled in just 45 days in Mexico City’s Bosques de las Lomas. This highly energy-efficient home features a customizable modular construction system with aluminum framing. Its innovative design allows for easy expansion and customization, while its double-glazed windows and thermal insulation ensure comfort and sustainability. The Pi House’s aluminum construction makes it easily recyclable, contributing to its eco-friendly profile. With international patents and plans for expansion, this affordable prefab home represents the future of accessible and sustainable homeownership.
7. No Wastage
Since prefab homes are built in a factory setting, there is virtually no on-site material waste. Within the factory, any leftover materials from the construction of one home can be efficiently reused in the assembly of another manufactured home.
8. Use of Simple Construction Methods
Due to the utilization of straightforward construction methods, the site may necessitate fewer managers and less specialized training compared to stone or brick masonry. Additionally, it allows smaller teams to accomplish more in safer indoor environments alongside improved planning and fewer delays.
9. Sustainable Construction
Modern prefabrication materials commonly utilize eco-friendly or recycled materials, including seasonal or locally sourced timber. Advancements in manufacturing techniques allow for material substitution, reducing the ecological footprint, and resulting in minimal construction waste. This is because the materials possessing a low ecological footprint are readily recyclable, providing economical and environmentally friendly choices for reuse when a building reaches the end of its life. Moreover, disassembly is straightforward, often involving merely reversing the construction steps.
VMD (Vivienda Minima de Descanso) by STUDIOROCA offers prefabricated tiny homes made from repurposed shipping containers in Mexico. These homes feature off-grid capabilities and modern luxuries. STUDIOROCA’s innovative design transforms containers into sleek living spaces with open layouts, eco-friendly materials, and smart home systems. Built with a minimal impact process, each home is customizable and includes preset elements like FSC-certified oak flooring and smart appliances. Available in one-, two-, or three-bedroom options, clients can add features like outdoor decks into the design.
10. Modular Extensions are Easy to Attach
The best aspect of prefab buildings is their adaptability. Adding a modular extension, using identical materials, is quicker and more cost-effective than relocating or acquiring additional land for future growth.
The Caterpillar, a pioneering modular residence crafted from Quonset hut structures, features compact cubes within each unit for essential services like bathrooms, showers, and kitchens. This innovative 9,000-square-foot sculpture in Detroit’s Core City neighborhood includes six residences and two live-and-work spaces, soaring 23-foot ceilings, and a contemporary design. Each unit integrates a central “Jetsons” style genesis chamber, fostering a communal living experience. With inspiration drawn from diverse sources, the Caterpillar embraces porch culture with 36 openings, flooding the space with natural light and creating a welcoming ambiance.
However, note that there are some drawbacks of Prefab homes. Firstly, there’s the issue of land costs, including expenses such as the price of land and ground leveling. Limited customization options compared to stick-built homes restrict choices to what the manufacturer offers. Additionally, planning for utilities and site-specific requirements can be challenging, although some prefab home companies offer assistance with these tasks.
As rumors foretold, Apple has revamped the iPad Pro with an M4 chip, tandem OLED screen and a thinner case. There's also a new Magic Keyboard that should deliver a more MacBook-like typing experience! In this week's episode, Cherlynn and Devindra discuss how Apple is shining a new light on tablets (which also includes the new iPad Air models) and reworking its vision of mobile computing. Does anyone really need the iPad Pro today? And could it be more compelling if iPadOS improves its multitasking capabilities? Also, we discuss the launch of Google's new mid-range phone, the Pixel 8a.
Listen below or subscribe on your podcast app of choice. If you've got suggestions or topics you'd like covered on the show, be sure to email us or drop a note in the comments! And be sure to check out our other podcast, Engadget News!
Topics
New iPad Pro with OLED and M4 processor, iPad Air and Apple Pencil announced at ‘Let Loose’ event – 1:04
Google announces Pixel 8a with 120Hz OLED screen and AI capability – 20:50
What the heck happed with Helldivers 2? – 28:31
Microsoft shuts down Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin – 34:10
Hades 2 early access is out now – 42:01
Around Engadget: Steve Dent reviews Fujifilm X100 VI – 45:39
OpenUI AI is an innovative project that makes building web pages using AI and web page front-ends easy for users, allowing them to simply describe what they want. This tool is open-source and can be integrated with local open-source models or used with provided APIs. This innovative software simplifies the development process, allowing both experienced […]
The gaming world is on the cusp of a significant leap forward as Sony gears up to introduce the PlayStation 5 Pro later this year. This next-generation console promises to deliver a range of enhancements over the standard PlayStation 5, including: Boosted processing power Enhanced graphics capabilities Expanded memory and storage Advanced features like improved […]
