At the last Euroluce show in Milan, the Liiu lamp by Vantot, edited by Luceplan, captured attention for its striking design. Liiu is a suspended structure with thin conductive wires that support small LED lamps. These lamps are held in place by springs that adjust their height, giving the entire piece a clean, minimalist appearance. It has since been recognized as an iconic piece, praised for its distinctive and innovative design.
Creating an iconic lamp is no small feat in the saturated market, and Liiu has managed to achieve this status by balancing aesthetics with functionality. Its design is both decorative and functional, drawing interest with its unique form and construction. The lamp’s instantly recognizable structure, coupled with its innovative use of conductive materials, sets it apart from more traditional lighting designs.
Vantot, known for its boundary-pushing approach to lighting design, avoids conventional methods in favor of more experimental techniques. The studio’s portfolio reflects this innovative spirit, with each lamp designed around the way light behaves and interacts with its environment, rather than merely focusing on creating a beautiful lampshade. The complexity of lighting design goes beyond what is typically considered in other design objects, requiring careful attention to both the construction and the behavior of light.
Two of Vantot’s other notable designs, the V-V-V and O-O-O lamps, exemplify the studio’s approach. The V-V-V lamp features a thin metal structure suspended by wires that also conduct electricity. This eliminates the need for traditional power cords, creating a sleek and modern design that serves both decorative and functional purposes. Its fishbone-shaped metal frame holds three LED lights, which diffuse light horizontally, making it an art piece as much as a lighting fixture.
On the other hand, the O-O-O lamp provides a different kind of lighting experience. While it uses similar conductive materials, its design is intended to provide subtle, ambient lighting. The glass lampshade directs light vertically, diffusing it gently throughout the room. The modular construction allows for customization in both the size and frequency of the lighting elements, making it adaptable to various spaces and user preferences.
Both lamps, along with Liiu, illustrate how Vantot explores new possibilities in lighting design, leveraging contemporary LED technology. LEDs operate at much lower voltages than traditional lighting, allowing for more creative flexibility in how electricity is conducted through the structure. This opens up new ways of integrating lighting into interior spaces safely, without the need for bulky or dangerous power cords.
The Liiu lamp, in particular, stands out for its elegant simplicity, combining function and form in a seamless design. Vantot’s attention to detail ensures that every element of the lamp, from its height-adjusting springs to the conductive wires, is carefully considered and tested. The studio’s approach to research and development means that each product undergoes extensive testing and refinement before reaching the market, ensuring that both aesthetics and performance are optimized.
In addition to their individual products, Vantot also creates large-scale lighting installations that showcase the full potential of their designs. These installations are often sculptural in nature, blending art with functional lighting in a way that enhances the surrounding environment. The Liiu lamp itself originated as one such installation before being adapted for commercial production.
Vantot’s work highlights the importance of innovation in lighting design, focusing on how light is emitted and managed rather than simply how the lamp looks. With Liiu, V-V-V, O-O-O, and other designs, the studio demonstrates that lighting can be more than just a source of illumination—it can be an emotional and immersive experience, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in contemporary design.
The vinyl record player, once an iconic symbol of music’s golden age, has evolved into a nostalgic artifact. Yet, in a world where retro trends keep resurfacing, bringing back the record player in an exciting new way would be a perfect blend of past and present. Enter the Hauf Vertical Record Player, a modern twist on this timeless piece of technology that reimagines how we experience both music and design.
At first glance, the Hauf Vertical Record Player captures attention with its unique vertical orientation. Gone are the days of flat, table-top turntables. Hauf redefines the way we interact with vinyl records by turning this traditional medium into a visual experience. Watching the record spin vertically becomes an engaging spectacle, adding a new dynamic to how we connect with our music. For any audiophile or design enthusiast, it’s a captivating way to merge sound and sight, transforming the act of listening into something both audible and aesthetic.
The design of the Hauf Vertical Record Player is a celebration of vintage charm married with modern minimalism. Its sleek, space-saving form doesn’t just sit in the corner of the room unnoticed. Rather, it becomes a focal point, a piece of functional art. By elevating the record player vertically, Hauf not only maximizes space but also enhances the appeal of vinyl collections, putting them on display like gallery pieces.
A key element of the player’s design is the clever use of materials that blend strength with elegance. The juxtaposition of industrial steel arms and smooth, white textured plastic creates a striking contrast. The steel arms provide an edgy, robust quality that speaks to durability, while the soft, white textured plastic adds a contemporary, clean look. Together, these materials form a balanced composition that complements modern interiors without sacrificing the vintage charm of vinyl culture.
Hauf’s Vertical Record Player reimagines what a record player can be, offering not only a nod to the past but also a futuristic approach to home audio systems. It embodies a fusion of function and form, a perfect centerpiece for music lovers and design aficionados alike. As vinyl continues to make its resurgence in today’s digital age, the Hauf Vertical Record Player stands as a bold reminder that some things never go out of style, they just evolve.
As if constantly checking the time wasn’t distracting enough, having a clock that encourages you to look at it all the time spells trouble for your productivity. Riding the retro wave, this clock brings the popular pixel graphics design of yesteryears to your living space. Waiting for the clock hands to “turn” almost becomes a tense waiting game, and you probably end up losing more time just by watching it.
Klapklok, however, is more than just a quirky-looking clock. It’s also a unique audiovisual experience that brings delight to the senses at the turning of the hour. It makes time feel more dynamic and palpable, perhaps creating a stronger relationship to the concept of time compared to just passively looking at a regular clock, no matter how beautiful that might be.
The split-flap mechanism used by old clocks and scoreboards is itself a blast from the past, but this clock employs it in a way that combines it with another retro design convention. Using 69 elements, the Klapklok creates what is practically a giant pixelated rounded square, where each “pixel” flips from white to black and vice-versa. Of course, the movement is anything but random, and the hands of the clock “move” every 2.5 minutes to tell the time.
The movement of the flaps is subtle but not altogether silent. It’s more like a gentle whisper than a rigid clank. Every hour, all 69 flaps quickly change to display the time as a number, creating a peaceful rustle like the flapping of butterfly wings. Despite the mechanical visual of flipping surfaces, the overall effect is more calming, almost mesmerizing.
It might all look simple, but this wonder clock is carefully handcrafted using premium materials. The base is milled out of high-performance bio polyurethane, while flaps are made from a paper-like yet durable composite material. The hinges are completely transparent to disappear from view and a metal USB-C cable for power perfectly complements the design, even if it’s always visible.
While its primary purpose is to tell time, Klapklok can also be used as a pixel art display. A smartphone app lets owners draw on that rounded square canvas, utilizing those 69 elements to show an icon or letters. It’s a fun and engaging feature that makes the clock useful even after you’ve grown tired of being distracted by its tempting design.
Today mobility is an important cornerstone of both work and leisure, and the modern road warrior whether he is a digital nomad, business traveler, or adventure seeker, needs to always be well-equipped with the right tools and accessories to ensure he stays productive, comfortable, and connected on the go. By traveling light, you don’t simply reduce your physical luggage, but you elevate your travel experience, and ensure you make the most of your journey. And, we’ve curated 10 portable essentials we feel every road warrior should pack.
Incorporating these handy and portable designs is a must, as they will help you deal with the demands of life on the road. Each product is designed to provide convenience, comfort, and efficiency. By traveling light and carrying the necessities you create space to focus on what is important – making the most of your journey and embracing new experiences easily and with excitement.
1. Portable Headphones To Shut Out The World
While traveling finding moments of peace can be downright impossible. This is where you need some high-quality headphones. These headphones will create your sanctuary of sound, ensuring you can focus, relax, or simply listen to your favorite songs without any disruption. If you can find headphones equipped with advanced noise cancellation technology, then all the better, as they will block out any ambient sounds that disturb you.
Comfortable over-ear designs with plush ear pads are also great for long flights or extended work sessions. Additionally, consider models with long battery life and quick charging capabilities to ensure you stay powered up throughout your travels.
Nothing x AIAIAI Headphones
An excellent headphone design that I love is the Nothing x AIAIAI Headphones. These headphones combine both the company’s visions to build one beautiful and functional product. The headphones are amped with individual features as witnessed in the AirPods Max, but they also boast the transparent beauty of Nothing.
The headphones are made up of modular parts that can be replaced and swapped out on the fly. This makes them ideal for a life on the road, as you don’t need to worry about them coming apart and not working the way you need them to. They are equipped with some lovely transparent housing on the cans, ear stems, and ear cushions as well. This transparent cushioning on the headrest truly makes the headphones stand out.
What we like
Features slide-out cans, removable ear-cups, and detachable aux cable
An aesthetic and modular design that perfectly captures Nothing’s design language
What we dislike
The color options are limited – black and white. It would have been fun if they’d experimented with different colors since it is a concept
2. Laptop Stands To Help You Work Better Anywhere
For digital nomads and business travelers, maintaining ergonomic comfort while working remotely is crucial. A portable laptop stand can help prevent neck and back strain, ensuring you stay productive without compromising on health. Opt for a lightweight and collapsible stand that elevates your laptop screen to eye level, promoting better posture. Adjustable stands allow you to customize the height to your preference. Compact designs that fit easily into your backpack or carry-on are ideal for those who frequently work on the go.
Working on the road isn’t the easiest task, but having a great laptop stand by your side ensures that you can get your work done with ease, and be your most productive self. So, it doesn’t matter where the road takes you, you can set up your handy laptop stand, and get to work no matter where you are.
Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk
Meet the Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk – a revolutionary portable workstation that is a must-have for those who are always on the move. This nifty product is a lifesaver, helping you maintain productivity on the go. It has a clever design that mimics a fabric-covered notebook, making it a subtle and stylish addition to your luggage. When you open it, it converts into a full-fledged ergonomic setup, including a laptop stand, wireless keyboard, and touchpad.
The Casa Pop-Up Desk elevates your laptop to eye level, helping you maintain a healthy posture, and reducing neck strain. It includes multiple compartments for cables, pens, and other essentials. It features a compact and easy-to-carry form, ensuring it fits your backpack or briefcase with ease.
What we like
Features a stylish, notebook-like design that merges well with other personal items
Offers a quick setup within minutes
What we dislike
The desk may not hold larger laptops or additional peripherals well
It is best used on flat surfaces, so it may be difficult to use in some situations
3. Innovative Travel Bags To Lessen Your Load
Of course, while traveling one of the most important belongings you can have is the right travel bag. Picking the right travel bag helps you organize your belongings, and carry them with ease and style. You need to select options that are durable, versatile, and equipped with plenty of storage without being cumbersome or heavy. You could always go for travel backpacks that are carry-on compliant and amped with spacious main compartments, or you could also opt for modular travel systems that redefine the way you pack.
The right travel bag is the difference between a good on-the-road experience and an uncomfortable or bad one. Picking an option that best meets your needs and requirements, ensures you don’t need to keep packing, repacking, and organizing, to keep your things in order and easily accessible. If you’re looking for a nifty and modular travel system, then we may have the perfect one for you!
The Trilogy Set
Named Trilogy, this innovative travel system is Onli Travel’s latest design. The modular travel system includes three distinct parts – a spinner (trolley bag), a tote, and a daypack. These components can be utilized independently as regular pieces of luggage, or paired and mixed and matched with each other to create unique combinations based on your personal needs and requirements. You could also join them together life a club-sadnwich, so all your personal belongings are packed in one cohesive unit.
Modularity is truly the solution to pack well and travel light. The three bags are all different and unique, tailored to handle different scenarios, but when the need arises they can all be paired together to create something truly functional and useful. You can attach the bags, allowing you to wheel them as one unit.
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What we like
Each component is a complete bag in itself and can be used alone
Available in three color options to choose from – Black, Blue-Wing Teal, and a Rust-like Zinfandel
What we dislike
4. Portable Kitchen Tools To Simplify Chores
If you’re gonna spend time on the road, then you need to learn to cook on the go. Cooking on the go isn’t as difficult as it may sound, as long as you have the right tools with you. Portable kitchen tools are often a lifesaver, they are compact and functional, helping you prepare delicious meals with ease, no matter where you are. They often feature a flexible and foldable design, which makes them easy to pack up once you’re done using them.
Of course, you will pack the necessities – the pots, pans, and mugs, but what about when you’re done using these utensils? You can’t carry dirty kitchenware with you when you’re on the go. This is where you may want to consider a shrinking dish rack – a unique kitchen tool that will make a world of difference to your after-cooking process.
Slim Fold Dish Rack
Dubbed the Slim Fold Dish Rack, this easy-to-carry dish rack is portable, and is designed to accompany you on all your outdoor trips, and adventures on the road. It features a patent-pending spring mechanism which allows it to be adjusted with ease. You can set up the handy little dish rack as and when needed, it is easy to deploy and set up.
The dish rack features a sturdy and minimal form, and it provides plenty of abundant ventilation. It has more than enough space to hold utensils, plates, and cookware. It is an excellent product for your kitchen, whether you’re cooking indoors or outdoors because you always need some place to dry your utensils.
Features convenient flexible collapsible form that makes it quite portable
What we dislike
It can only hold light utensils, not the best option for heavier utensils
5. Versatile & Travel-Friendly Clothing With Multiple Features
If you’re spending a life on the road, then you need to select the correct clothing for yourself. You need a selection of versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched helping you reduce luggage weight. It is important to pick items that are suitable for various climates, helping you adapt to different environments without excessively packing. Your choice of clothing shouldn’t simply be aesthetic, but also practical, functional, and comfortable.
Travel-friendly clothing designs are often innovative with multiple pockets and a bunch of handy features. These apparels are designed to help you deal with different situations, weather conditions, and scenarios where you don’t have much time to get ready. Pick the right clothing to help support your life on the road!
Baubax 2.0 Travel Jacket
When you’re traveling, you need to feel comfortable, especially during long flights to tedious road trips. The Baubax 2.0 Travel Jacket focuses heavily on comfort and convenience. The jacket integrates a whole bunch of travel essentials into one single stylish garment. The jacket is designed for the modern road warrior, and it features a built-in neck pillow, eye mask, gloves, blanket, and footrest, ensuring you always travel with comfort.
The jacket features twelve utility pockets, providing more than enough space to store your passport, snacks, phone, and other travel necessities, ensuring everything is always within reach. The Baubax 2.0 is an excellent pick for those who want to streamline their travel experience, it merges multiple accessories into one convenient package.
What we like
Merges multiple travel accessories into one convenient garment
It features a built-in pillow and blanket to offer added comfort during travel
What we dislike
The jacket may not suit all body types or fashion preferences
6. Flexible Fire Pits To Keep You Warm
If you prefer spending time in the outdoors, basking in the beauty of mother nature, then a portable fire pit is a necessity. It is designed to bring warmth and ambiance to any setting. A flexibly-designed and portable fire pit lets you truly enjoy a campfire experience, without leaving behind much of a mess, they usually adhere to a Leave No Trace principle and aren’t a hassle to set up.
It is best to pick up models that are quite easy to assemble and disassemble, so you don’t need to spend hours setting up or cleaning up your fire. A multifunctional pit that keeps you warm, and lets you cook on it is an added bonus since you don’t need to carry a separate portable stove to help you with cooking.
Portable Fire Pit Stand
When you’re out and about, whether camping in the outdoors or road-tripping through the country, you need a fire pit by your side. This Portable Fire Pit Stand is something you need to check out. It features a unique puzzle-like assembly, which makes it stand out from the typical fire pits on the market. It offers you warmth, while also serving as a cooking station, making it essential for the winter season.
The Portable Fire Pit Stand is made from special sheet metal technology, and it can’t be warped or distorted due to the heat, ensuring longevity and safety. The stand features a compact size, and is pretty easy to assemble, making it perfect for different outdoor settings – whether it is someone’s backyard or a camping trip.
Equipped with a convenient puzzle-like design that allows for a quick and straightforward setup
Features a sleek, industrial look that enhances your outdoor gear collection
What we dislike
Not suitable for larger groups due to its compact size
7. Portable Furniture For Some On-The-Go Rest
Finding a cozy space to sit down and rest in can be tough when you’re traveling. Sometimes you will need to create a makeshift functional living space that doesn’t sacrifice comfort too much. Portable furniture options need to be considered, they tend to be lightweight and easy to set up, offering comfort without the bulk. You can consider compact camping chairs that provide great support and comfort. They are often equipped with durable frames and breathable fabric.
Portable chair designs today can often be packed into your suitcase, or backpack making them pretty easy to transport. They’re great for sitting by the campfire, or on the beach, just make sure they have sturdy frames that can support you without fear of breaking.
Campster 2
Dubbed the Campster 2 Foldable Camping Chair, this handy chair should be a part of the reliable gear you carry to enhance your travel experience. The chair doesn’t weigh you down, instead, it serves as a portable and comfy seating solution for life on the road, whether you’re camping or conducting any other outdoor activity. It features lightweight construction and is pretty easy to set up.
It features a compact design that can be folded down to the size of a 1.5-liter bottle, making it an ideal choice for easy transport and storage. The chair is durable and designed to handle the rigors of outdoor use while ensuring you sit comfortably. It is an excellent choice for adventurers who want something portable, comfortable, and durable.
What we like
Straightforward assembly and disassembly that doesn’t take too much time
Lightweight design that is easy to carry over long distances
What we dislike
It may not be able to support heavier individuals, limiting its usability
8. Portable Coffee Makers For A Perfect Cup Of Joe On The Go
If you’re like me, then you need to start your day with a great cup of coffee. If you’re on the move it can be hard to get some good coffee, you may have to make do with subpar hotel or café options. And that’s why purchasing a portable coffee maker isn’t a bad option at all. There are plenty of coffee makers on the market that brew smooth and delicious coffee through unique immersion or pressure brewing techniques.
Go for compact designs that are easy to carry. Compact and portable models are usually quite easy to clean and use, and they don’t require any electricity. They can be operated using physical pressure, making them great for camping and road trips.
Leverpresso
If you’re a coffee aficionado who refuses to gulp down bad coffee, then you need to get your hands on the Leverpresso Portable Espresso Maker. This compact device is a game changer, letting you brew rich and delicious espresso wherever you are, without needing electricity. It requires manual operation, which offers complete control over the brewing process – ranging from pressure to extraction.
The espresso maker provides a personalized coffee experience, and it is compact enough to fit in your backpack or suitcase. It is created for those who need their perfect cup of joe while they’re on the go. It works well whether you’re camping in the wilderness, or staying at a hotel.
What we like
Easy to transport and use in different settings
It doesn’t need electricity, so great for remote locations and power outages
What we dislike
There will be a learning curve, users may take some time to perfect the brewing technique
It only prepares one cup at a time, not well-suited for groups
9. Compact Travel Pillow & Blanket To Keep You Cozy
When you’re on the road, you never know when the temperature could dip or rise. Predicting weather conditions is an impossible task, hence it is better to be well-prepared for different scenarios. You need a blanket to keep you warm and help lull you to sleep. You also need an ergonomic and comfortable pillow that lets you nod off on your long journeys, without causing immense strain to your neck.
Sleeping in a vehicle is often simply torture, hence you need a convenient and comfortable travel pillow and blanket combination to help you rest in peace. You need products that provide the correct support to your body while ensuring you’re warm and comfortable. There are plenty of options on the market, but we’ve found a good one for you.
Nod Travel Pillow & Blanket
The Nod Travel Pillow is a lifesaver in itself. It features a patent-pending “Over the Top” design that prevents your head from falling forward, as well as left or right. This keeps your head in a comfortable position, ensuring your neck doesn’t get strained, and you don’t wake up with crummy neck pain. It is equipped with a super comfortable memory foam interior which offers a soft and relaxed sleeping experience, helping you catch a quick nap or a good night’s rest.
The travel pillow pairs up perfectly with the Nod Travel Blanket. It is designed for travelers who often end up in chilly environments. It offers warmth and comfort, without the bulk and weight of traditional blankets. It features an open-back design which lets it securely stay in place, allowing you to sleep, without constantly adjusting and handling it. It is made from wind and waterproof materials, providing extra protection against chilly drafts.
What we like
The pillow and blanket can be easily stored away since the blanket folds itself into a bag
The blanket includes a hood for extra warmth
What we dislike
The blanket may not provide enough warmth in extremely cold conditions
Users may find the action of resting their chin on a pillow uncomfortable
10. Modular Water Bottle To Meet Your Hydration Needs
When you’re on the go, you may ignore your hydration, but worry not, because a modular water bottle is what you need. A modular and compact water bottle can adapt to different environments and is equipped with customizable components that let you tailor it to your specific needs. If you’re setting off on a hiking adventure, or taking a long flight somewhere, a modular water bottle will keep you hydrated while suiting your lifestyle.
Modular water bottles usually feature different lids, little storage compartments, and filters, blessing you with a versatile and convenient hydration system. Besides helping you stay hydrated, these water bottles are excellent at offering a personalized and eco-friendly solution.
TMB
Named the TMB or the Modular Bottle, this innovative bottle will store your water or drink of choice as you move around. It is designed to meet various drinking requirements, ensuring you don’t neglect your hydration while traveling or working. It will offer you with a refreshing beverage.
The interiors of the bottle are built from durable borosilicate glass, which maintains your drink’s flavor, even if you use the bottle many times. It is easy to clean, and equipped with a translucent mid-section, so you can always see how much liquid is left inside the bottle. TMB makes for a great sidekick as you spend your life on the road, ensuring you always have some water or a delicious drink to sip on.
What we like
Equipped with an Infusion Module Add-On for tea and fruits
It features a secret compartment to store snacks
What we dislike
It is a glass bottle, so must be handled with care
In our hyper-digital age, the humble business card might seem like a relic. But the Memento Business Card Log is here to remind us that sometimes, old-school is the way to go. This isn’t just another organizer—it’s a beautifully crafted piece from Re+g that captures the essence of every connection you make.
Design & Functionality: Where Minimalism Meets Utility
At first glance, the Memento Business Card Log is all about those clean lines and a minimalist vibe. It’s the kind of accessory that wouldn’t look out of place next to the latest tech gadgets. But it’s not just about looks. The binding system is smart—letting you shuffle your cards around like a playlist. No more rigid order. And the two-point slit? It’s like the perfect grip for your cards, paired with paper that just feels good to touch.
Beyond just holding cards, this log gives you space to scribble down those little details—like the witty joke someone cracked or the project you brainstormed over coffee. It’s these personal touches that elevate it from a mere organizer to a memory keeper.
Craftsmanship: A Nod to Japanese Design
Re+g, a brand known for its creative flair and functionality, nails it with the Memento Business Card Log. The paper’s smooth, the cover’s durable yet light—making it easy to slip into your bag without adding heft. And the elastic band? A practical touch that keeps everything secure while adding a dash of style.
Whether you’re a designer, consultant, or exec, this log feels more like a part of your professional kit. Each card you add isn’t just a contact; it’s part of your story.
A Refreshing Take on Networking
In a world where LinkedIn requests fly faster than paper planes, the Memento Business Card Log offers a refreshing pause. With dedicated note space beside each card, it transforms the act of organizing into something reflective. You’re not just filing contacts; you’re documenting stories.
Imagine ending your day by logging each card, capturing what made the interaction special. This turns the Memento Log into a keepsake, bridging you to lasting professional relationships.
What We Like:
Thoughtful Design: The unique binding system and two-point slit design keep business cards securely in place, while allowing for easy rearrangement.
Personal Touch: The space for handwritten notes transforms this log from a simple organizer into a tool for capturing memories.
Craftsmanship: High-quality materials and a tactile paper finish elevate both the aesthetic and the functionality of the log.
Portability: Compact and lightweight, making it the perfect companion for professionals on the go.
What We Dislike:
Limited Capacity: Holding up to 120 cards is enough for most users, but heavy networkers may find themselves needing more space.
Paper Durability: While the paper feels premium, those seeking extreme durability might prefer a more reinforced cover.
Final Verdict
For those who value both organization and meaningful connections, the Memento Business Card Log is a must-have. Whether you’re at a conference or just meeting clients, this log helps you capture not just who you met but why it mattered. It’s more than a business card holder—it’s a part of your career journey.
In a world of fleeting digital connections, the Memento Log offers a tangible way to cherish and preserve professional relationships, ensuring every interaction is remembered for both the contact and the moment.
Omega and Swatch have introduced the Mission to Earthphase, a watch that illustrates Earth and Moon phases on a single dial. This latest addition to the MoonSwatch series features an innovative Earth phase complication, marking a first in watchmaking history. Designed to simulate how Earth appears from the Moon, the Mission to Earthphase pays tribute to the beauty of our planet as seen from space.
Designers: Swatch x OMEGA
From the dial’s textured gray surface to its intricately crafted Earth and Moon indicators, this watch is filled with details inspired by celestial mechanics. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Mission to Earthphase features a quartz movement tailored to manage these dual complications. Here, we’ll explore the design, how it works, and the unique movement that powers this timepiece.
A Design that Brings Earth and Moon Together
The Mission to Earthphase’s dial design immediately captures attention. Unlike traditional moonphase watches, which depict the phases of the Moon as seen from Earth, the Mission to Earthphase shifts perspectives. Positioned at ten o’clock, the Earth phase complication displays Earth’s phases as they would be viewed from the Moon, offering a unique perspective of our planet.
Image: Swatch
In this Earth phase indicator, continents and oceans are depicted in vivid colors. Oceans are treated with UV-reactive ink, glowing under ultraviolet light, creating a soft blue glow reminiscent of how astronauts describe Earth—as a glowing blue marble against the vastness of space. This glow captures the beauty and mystery of our planet. Landmasses are rendered with fine detail, presenting a vibrant and precise representation of the Earth’s surface.
Across the dial at the two o’clock position, the Moon phase indicator sits across the dial. Omega and Swatch have ensured that the Moon is represented with signature attention to detail. Two large depictions of the Moon glow in the dark thanks to Super-LumiNova treatment. This soft white glow adds a touch of mystique without overpowering the rest of the dial, enhancing visual appeal and ensuring legibility in low-light settings.
The Movement: Precision and Innovation
The Mission to Earthphase is powered by a unique quartz movement specifically engineered to support both Earth and Moon phase complications. Traditional moonphase watches use a simple mechanism to track the Moon’s 29.5-day cycle. However, Omega and Swatch took a more complex approach to incorporate both Earth and Moon phases.
Image: Swatch
The Earth phase rotates in the opposite direction of the Moon phase, accurately depicting how the Earth’s phases appear to an observer on the Moon. This reverse rotation reflects the actual orientation of Earth and Moon phases relative to each other.
The gearing system behind the Earth phase complication was calibrated to ensure synchronization with the Moon phase while operating independently. This design required Omega and Swatch to rethink the mechanics of dual-phase displays, resulting in a sophisticated and reliable movement.
Textured Dial and Classic Bezel for a Space-Inspired Look
The dial surface of the Mission to Earthphase features a grainy gray texture that replicates the rugged landscape of the Moon. This surface provides a tactile quality, grounding the watch in its cosmic theme and echoing the Moon’s cratered terrain. It connects the wearer to the idea of standing on the Moon and looking back at Earth.
Image: Swatch
Surrounding the detailed dial is a black tachymeter bezel with light gray markers. This bezel contrasts with the textured dial, allowing the dial’s features to remain the focal point. The tachymeter scale adds a functional element, maintaining the chronograph heritage of Omega’s Speedmaster series while emphasizing the connection between space exploration and timekeeping.
Bioceramic Case and Space-Ready Strap
The Mission to Earthphase case is crafted from Bioceramic, a material that combines ceramic with bio sourced elements derived from castor oil. The 42-millimeter case has a light gray tone that harmonizes with the lunar-themed dial, adding a sense of cohesion. Bioceramic is lightweight and durable, making it ideal for a watch designed for comfortable wear while maintaining sophistication.
Image: Swatch
Swatch has equipped the Mission to Earthphase with a black Velcro strap stitched with light gray thread, providing comfort and adjustability for various wrist sizes. The strap draws from materials used in astronaut gear, adding an authentic touch of space-inspired practicality. The Omega and Swatch branding is visible on the strap, highlighting the partnership behind this watch.
The battery cover on the watch’s back is etched with an image of the Moon, complete with Neil Armstrong’s iconic footprint—a nod to the historic lunar landing.
The Mission to Earthphase runs on a quartz movement chosen for its precision and low maintenance requirements. While mechanical movements often carry a sense of tradition, the quartz option provides the accuracy needed to maintain Earth and Moon phase indicators. This aligns with Swatch’s approach of making accessible, high-quality designs without compromising performance.
Image: Swatch
Quartz technology ensures that the Earth and Moon phases stay in perfect sync with real-world cycles, reducing the need for manual adjustments. This makes the Mission to Earthphase practical for everyday wearers who appreciate innovation without the upkeep of a mechanical movement. The stability and durability of quartz movement provide peace of mind, keeping the watch accurate with minimal intervention.
A Unique Achievement in Dual-Phase Display
The Mission to Earthphase showcases the Earth and Moon phases in a unified, independent rotation. This dual-phase complication exemplifies Omega and Swatch’s innovative engineering, clearly depicting Earth-Moon dynamics.
Image: Swatch
The Mission to Earthphase brings the cosmos to the wrist through its crafted dial, unique movement, and detailed design. Omega and Swatch provide a distinctive experience of the Earth-Moon relationship, blending technical precision with artistic vision.
Stationery remains essential, adapting to global trends like sustainability, and minimalism, and bridging the gap between digital and analog domains. With technological advancements, stationery for school and office settings is progressing towards smarter, sustainable products, transforming traditional items into symbols of productivity and creativity. This transformation underscores a fusion of innovation and timeless design, enhancing how students approach their studies and how office workers manage their tasks efficiently.
Explore the transformative trends shaping the future landscape of stationery, traditional office supplies, and educational tools.
Wood is typically associated with brown, but different tree species produce various colors. In Japan, Forest Crayons uses pigments from recycled forest trees to create crayons, mixed with wood, rice wax, and rice oil. Each color, such as the magnolia’s light green or fungus-stained wood’s deep turquoise, reflects the tree species and growth conditions. The set includes ten colors: Bayberry, Bogwood, Cedar, Chinaberry, Cypress, Hazenoki, Katsura, Kaizuka, Magnolia, and Zelkova. This project, endorsed by the Japanese Forest Agency, promotes a renewed appreciation for Japan’s forests.
Pens usually signify productivity and creativity, but the Zen Pen, a unique Japanese-made writing instrument, aims to evoke calm through its design and texture. Inspired by Zen gardens, it features 3D-printed grooves and an off-center, smooth clip, mimicking the sand and stone elements. Crafted by skilled Japanese artisans using modern 3D printing and milling, the Zen Pen provides a soothing tactile experience, promoting mindfulness and tranquility. This makes it an ideal tool for students, helping them stay focused and calm while writing and studying in a school environment.
The 25° Ruler sets new standards in precision and durability, crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum and featuring laser-engraved markings for long-lasting accuracy. Available in sizes ranging from 6 to 20 inches and various vibrant colors, its ergonomic 25° angle enhances usability by placing measurements conveniently along the bottom edge. A teardrop design ensures safety and ease of use, while dual-sided markings cater to metric and imperial units, starting from zero to ensure precise measurements.
Royi Stationery offers innovative supplies that tell stories of honesty and introspection. Their transparent staplers and hard disks prompt reflection on deeper values, inspired by timeless narratives like the tale of the naked king. These products encourage a meaningful connection with stationery tools, inviting users to see beyond surface appearances and appreciate the wisdom embedded in everyday objects.
The Sidekick Notepad blends digital efficiency with analog charm, ideal for users who embrace a digital-analog hybrid workflow. Featuring 60 tear-away pages of Munken Lynx paper and a cover made from recycled coffee cups, it includes sections for notes, to-do lists with checkboxes, and a date section. Perfect for quick note-taking during meetings or daily tasks, it offers practicality and sustainability in one compact design.
The Nuwa Pen is an AI-powered ballpoint that bridges the gap between handwritten charm and digital efficiency. This innovative pen uses a TRIDENT imaging system and AI to effortlessly convert your scribbles on any paper into searchable digital notes. With 2GB of built-in memory, rapid charging, and compatibility with the Nuwa Pen App for cloud storage, it ensures your ideas are always accessible and organized. Ideal for those who value both the tactile joy of writing and the practicality of digital tools, the Nuwa Pen redefines note-taking versatility.
Introducing the stilform FLOW: an award-winning ballpoint pen that merges elegance with innovation. Its magnetic cap retracts the refill with a satisfying click, offering a unique fidget feature. Available in aluminum, brass, or titanium, each variant boasts a sleek, durable design ideal for a luxurious writing experience. The FLOW utilizes recycled materials and is refillable, ensuring longevity while reducing environmental impact. Perfect for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and functional beauty in their everyday writing tools.
Transform your workspace with nature-inspired accessory designs that merge functionality with aesthetic appeal. The Greenery Pencil Holder mimics bamboo stems with a curved plate for storing pens and pencils. The Greenery Clock features an abstract, leaf-shaped digital display and a flat surface for small items. The Greenery Tray offers horizontal “leaves” for storage and key rings, while the Greenery Cable Holder simplifies cable management with leaf-like circles. These designs bring a touch of greenery to your desk, enhancing both organization and visual appeal.
The Bloomstick pen concept is a symbolic tool for journaling dreams comprising of a silicone-covered button that blooms like a flower when pressed, it merges functionality with a decorative touch. Available in green, blue, and pink, this pen adds a whimsical flair to your writing experience. Ideal for collectors and stationery enthusiasts alike, it transforms from a conventional pen into a visually appealing piece that inspires creativity and captures the essence of dreaming.
The Star Lord Helmet by LEGO is a functional and visually stunning addition to their Infinity Saga series. Standing 7 inches tall with 602 pieces, it faithfully recreates the iconic headgear from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Ideal for ages 18 and up, it features intricate details like red-tinted eyepieces and lifelike breathing valves. Beyond its collectible appeal, this build serves as a practical stationery holder and pen stand, offering storage for essentials in its hollow interior.
These Seki Sound scissors are more than just tools—they’re a playful homage to iconic electric guitars. Inspired by precision craftsmanship from Seki, Japan, renowned for cutlery excellence, they feature authentic details like guitar strings and frets. Designed to cut through paper, vinyl, and tape effortlessly, they’re as sharp as they are stylish, with a protective cap that doubles as a guitar head. Perfect for adding a touch of creativity and functionality to your workspace, these scissors are a must-have for design enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
The sPINmemo lamp reimagines traditional lighting with its innovative design that combines practicality and personalization. Featuring a rotating cork body for pinning notes and photos, this lamp promotes creativity and organization while offering storage space on its ceramic head. Crafted for both functionality and aesthetic appeal, it ensures optimal illumination and blends seamlessly into any workspace or living area. Ideal for those who value minimalism and versatile home decor solutions, the sPINmemo lamp enhances both lighting and personal expression.
This innovative highlighter draws inspiration from East Asia’s train systems, featuring a modular design reminiscent of train cars. Each segment serves as a different color highlighter, allowing for easy interchangeability and reducing the need for multiple units. Its ergonomic shape and sustainable potential, including refillable cartridges, set it apart in stationery design. LINE’s creative approach not only enhances functionality but also offers a fresh and enjoyable user experience, bridging utility with a playful modular design inspired by transit systems.
The MEMORABLE picture frame integrates a sophisticated marble design with modular functionality, featuring a unique rail system. This allows users to attach various modules like a pen holder, small vase, or note holder, enhancing both organization and personalization in your workspace. Crafted for durability and aesthetic appeal, MEMORABLE blends timeless elegance with practical modular design, making it ideal for displaying cherished memories while doubling as versatile desk storage.
The stationery landscape is transforming into a vibrant blend of sustainability, innovation, and artistic expression, revolutionizing how we approach work, study, and creative assignments.
Given how people are now so aware of the air quality in their own homes, it’s no surprise that air purifiers are becoming a staple in living spaces. At first, these appliances looked the part they played, clinical and technical, sticking out like a sore thumb in your living room. Some designs now incorporate more interesting aesthetics, colors, and materials, but in exchange, they have also become a little bit more difficult to use because of their hidden interfaces.
Aeroview is a concept design that tries to blend these two worlds together. Although it does stand tall in the middle of a room, it has a certain visual that comes off as more than just an appliance. More importantly, it makes its operation so simple that you only need to take a look to see how dirty the air is, and a little tap to clean it up as well.
Designers: Jihun Choi, Youngbin Yu, Jiseong Kim
Knowing how the level of indoor pollution, or rather the volume of particular matter (PM), isn’t just a matter of interest. It can help make an air purifier more efficient by only turning it on when it’s actually needed. Many devices show the information as numbers on a display, but that often requires you to waste your time walking to the air purifier, bending down, or squinting to see the numbers.
This air purifier design concept uses a more visible visual to convey the same information even from a distance. The tall tower of the appliance has transparent PDLC glass film on all four sides, and its opacity changes depending on the detected amount of fine dust and other particles in the air. It would be like watching a glass window get murky and opaque as dust starts to accumulate on its surface.
Using Aeroview is also just as easy. Simply press down on its domed top to activate the mechanism that lifts that cover and pushes the sides out, creating paths for dirty air to flow in from the side and purified air to blow from the top. The whole user experience revolves around simplicity without burying information behind multiple levels of menus, though the iconography used to convey that information does leave a bit of guesswork.
Aeroview is a fusion of stylish design and technological marvel, operating in a manner that brings some visual interest to your space. It doesn’t completely hide its identity as an air-purifying appliance, but it also uses that very same characteristic to make it look more at home in your home.
Modern life is full of hustle and bustle, and it can be difficult to find a moment of peace. In such a world, it is important to create a calming and serene atmosphere at home. Music is an excellent and powerful tool to soothe your mind and jazz up your mood. If you’re looking to enjoy some tranquil melodies at home or enhance your home’s ambiance, these five products are the solutions you need. They will enrich your daily routine and life with their gentle sounds, or your favorite tunes.
They will fill your living space with delightful tunes and soothing melodies, while also doubling up as stylish additions to your home decor, thanks to their artistic designs and unique features. Whether you’re revisiting the charm of CDs or welcoming guests with tranquil door chimes these products offer a harmonious blend of sound and style.
1. Portable CD Cover Player
Say hello to the Portable CD Cover Player! Imagine combining the nostalgia and beauty of retro design with a modern appreciation for visual art, and you have the Portable CD Cover Player. It is a minimalist and portable device designed to take you back to the golden age of CDs while keeping in touch with the present.
The Portable CD Cover Player doesn’t simply offer a satisfying auditory experience, but also a great visual one. It is amped with a sleek design, and thoughtful functionality, which converts the simple act of playing music into an artful and tasteful visual display, adding an element of functional elegance to your home.
The Portable CD Cover Player serves as a charming and alluring nod to the past. It provides a tangible connection to your favorite songs by allowing you to insert the CD jacket or sleeve into a specially designed pocket. This offers a physical counterpart to the digital album art, allowing you to showcase your prized music collection.
Besides delivering high-quality sound, the CD Cover Player also elevates your home with its classic and nostalgic aesthetic appeal, making it the center of attention in any room, and also a massive conversation starter. It is the perfect mix of the past and the present.
What we like
Equipped with a 40mm full-range speaker and woofer unit, which provides a rich and immersive audio experience
The powerful battery delivers 7-8 hours of uninterrupted playback, ensuring your music sessions are never cut short abruptly
What we dislike
It is limited to analog music, and cannot be synced with digital mediums
2. Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers
You can now step into the future of audio innovation with the Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers. It offers a novel and revolutionary take on the traditional smartphone speaker. It provides a unique blend of portability and sustainability, which reduces the need for a power source while offering an impressive auditory experience.
The speaker is made from a durable metal, which sets it apart not only for its functionality but also for its elegant and minimalist design. This makes the speaker a valuable and noteworthy addition to any tech-savvy household.
The Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers are made from Duralumin – a high-strength aluminum alloy that is known for its use in the aviation and aerospace industries. This material is pretty durable but also improves the speaker’s ability to resist vibration, which provides a pure and unaltered sound quality.
You need to simply place your smartphone into the speaker’s dock, and it fills the entire room with a sound that will completely envelop you. It creates an excellent immersive listening experience without the need for batteries or any electricity. It is also quite portable to carry around.
What we like
Eco-friendly and power-free design that reduces your carbon footprint
Features a sleek and streamlined aesthetic, which merges well with any decor
What we dislike
The speaker is compatible with most smartphones, but may not be compatible with devices encased in bulky covers or cases
3. Door Chime Tori
Called The Door Chime Tori, this little design isn’t your conventional and typical door accessory. Named after the Japanese word for ‘bird’, this nifty chime brings a touch of nature to your home owing to its cute bird-like shape and metallic tail feathers. The chime’s gentle movement creates tranquil and charming chirps, which will remind you of birds in their natural habitat.
This chime will make a delightful and amusing addition to your entryway, and it will allow some soothing and charming sounds to envelop your home. It helps to create an ambiance that is calm, melodic, and pleasant, allowing your home to feel like a haven.
The Door Chime Tori converts the ordinary door chime into a sensory and artful experience. It features a design that is minimal yet colorful, functioning as a charming and visually pleasing decor accent. At the same time, it creates soothing sounds to form a welcoming atmosphere.
The chime’s body is made from die-cast zinc which offers durability, and it features magnetic attachment which lets it easily get installed onto any ferrous metal surface. This isn’t the kind of door chime you hide away, but allow it to take centerplace on your door.
What we like
Produces soothing bird-like sounds
An elegant and colorful accent that elevates your door decor
What we dislike
It is limited to ferrous metal surfaces for mounting
4. CD Jacket Player
Meet the CD Jacket Player, another wonderful product that gives you a dose of nostalgia. This audio device merges nostalgia with contemporary design, transforming the traditional CD player into a minimal and classy piece of art. It features a boxy form, which will remind you of a picture frame or an oversized Polaroid photo.
The CD Jacket Player includes a transparent middle section that boasts the CD’s spinning bed. This unique design not only brings back the physical experience of album art but also serves as a sophisticated and tasteful decorative piece for your walls.
What makes the CD Jacket Player unique is that it combines the tactile and visual aspects of music listening and appreciation. It encourages users to manually insert cover jackets, which creates an interactive experience, and brings back the charm of physical albums in a digital age.
Its built-in rechargeable battery makes it pretty portable, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite CDs without the hassle of wires. The player supports both wired and wireless audio output, making it versatile for any listening preference.
What we like
The player supports both wired and Bluetooth audio output
It features a minimal and charming design that also doubles up as a home accent
What we dislike
It involves the manual insertion of cover jackets, which may not be convenient for all users
5. Door Chime Bo
Say hello to the Door Chime Bo – a Japanese-inspired chime, that is named after the Danish word for ‘live’ or ‘reside’. The door chime adopts an innovative approach to sound and style, forming a subtle yet unique experience. It is equipped with small metal bars that seem to float in front of your door, owing to its minimal base.
The sound created by the Door Chime Bo isn’t just pleasing to your ears, but also your mind. It can create a soothing environment. The chime has a streamlined and clean look, with no strings getting in the way, and no chime looking untidy or out of place.
Since the chime eliminates the clutter caused by strings and out-of-place chimes, it features an innovative design that is unlike most door chimes we see in the market. It features a strong neodymium magnet that supports easy installation onto any ferrous metal surface, ensuring it is compatible with various door types.
The sounds created by the chime are gentle and soothing, providing a pleasant auditory and sensory experience, that perfectly pairs up with the elegant and minimal aesthetics.
What we like
It delivers a subtle and pleasing sound
It features a strong neodymium magnet which makes it easy to install
What we dislike
The sound made by the chime may be too soft and subtle for some people
For long, AI tools have just been limited to graphical work, with not so much of it spilling into tangible industrial design. Sure, you could create logos and artwork for your products, but you still can’t “create” products using AI – something that xTool is hoping to change with its new software, AIMake. Simply put, AIMake is a GenAI tool that’s optimized for working with graphical output, but in a manner that’s fine-tuned for industrial design. With a prompt-based interface, AIMake allows you to create artwork that’s ready for 2D printing, laser-etching/engraving, and even embossing. AIMake offers as many as 70 different styles to apply to your prompt, generating everything from ready-to-print logos, to editable SVGs for screen-printing, and even low-relief 3D engraving. Alongside the AIMake feature, xTool’s also unveiling DesignFind – an asset marketplace for DIY enthusiasts and professional creators to access free and paid project files from users across the globe.
Generate Ready-To-Use Artwork for Laser Cutting and Screen Printing
Traditionally, preparing files for laser engraving or screen printing can be complex and technical, involving vector graphic software, high-res images, or detailed edits to achieve the clean lines and solid contrast needed for these processes. AIMake addresses this by letting users skip these steps; with it, designers can input descriptive prompts, such as “geometric fox engraving with high contrast,” and watch as the AI turns this concept into a polished, ready-to-engrave file.
This direct-to-laser capability is a shift for designers, providing an AI tool that reduces reliance on graphic software or tedious vector adjustments. Instead, AIMake generates crisp, high-contrast designs that integrate seamlessly with xTool’s laser engravers, ensuring that the visual quality aligns with what’s needed for physical production. Whether creating art for metal, wood, or glass, AIMake optimizes the image for the specific demands of laser engraving, relief carving, and screen printing.
From Vision to Reality with Prompt-Based Design
AIMake’s intuitive, prompt-based design system is key to its simplicity. Users enter a text description—anything from detailed portrait specs to broad aesthetic concepts—and the app’s AI engine generates a corresponding laser-compatible design. This means users can focus on creativity and concept rather than technical adjustments, using AIMake’s AI to refine the design automatically.
With this setup, designers of all backgrounds can produce intricate laser-cut images without needing advanced skills in vector graphics. For example, a prompt like “portrait of a lion, full mane, high detail, silhouette” can create a design with defined, laser-friendly lines and strong contrast, ready for immediate use in xTool’s compatible engravers. This system combines the efficiency of digital AI rendering with the tactile quality of handmade engraving, which helps streamline the creative workflow for designers and hobbyists alike.
Intuitive Controls make AI Creation easy for Beginners and Experts
xTool designed AIMake with both ease of use and versatility in mind, giving beginners and seasoned pros the tools they need for success. The platform allows new users to select from pre-set styles, such as vector templates or laser-friendly text effects, while offering advanced controls for adjusting details like line thickness and contrast.
Integration with xTool hardware, such as the D1 and M1 laser engravers, enables immediate testing and adjustments on physical materials, which saves time and minimizes material waste. For the designer seeking to perfect a project, these tools and settings remove the usual trial and error often required by other engraving software. This integration also lets users work on complex designs with the assurance that their final piece will match the original vision.
DesignFind: A Creative Hub for DIY and Professional Makers
DesignFind is a versatile platform for DIY enthusiasts and professional creators alike, offering a wide array of design assets for laser cutting, engraving, and more. With support for materials like wood and acrylic, users can explore diverse project categories, from home decor and jewelry to seasonal gifts for holidays and special occasions.
Key features include a library of free, shared templates—such as cutting boards and multi-layered designs—and premium assets like 3D models and detailed SVG files. Additionally, AIMake users can enhance their projects with DesignFind’s resources, making it easy to combine AI-generated designs with the platform’s extensive community assets. The “Featured Creators” section showcases work from top designers, inspiring new and seasoned creators with unique, ready-to-use projects.
Practical Applications Across Different Industries
AIMake’s functionality extends beyond personal design and has practical applications across various industries. Designers working with an array of fabrication devices (especially ones from xTool) can use AIMake to create logos, product designs, or custom merchandise. Small businesses can use it to create professional, engraving-ready designs without needing graphic design software, and crafters can generate unique pieces with ease.
In education, AIMake is a valuable asset, offering schools and makerspaces a chance to introduce students to digital design with hands-on projects. By using simple text inputs, students can quickly visualize and produce projects without needing prior experience in traditional graphic design tools. This flexibility gives learners and instructors alike more freedom to explore digital fabrication.
AIMake and the Future of Design Tools
AIMake sets a new standard for GenAI in tangible product design, showing how generative AI can seamlessly enhance the design process, making it more accessible, practical, and enjoyable. As AI technology continues to evolve, tools like AIMake represent a future where design creation is faster yet well within the control of creators.
For anyone working in creative design, AIMake offers an engaging blend of functionality and innovation, serving as both a creative assistant and a precision tool. Whether you’re producing intricate artwork, branding assets, or custom goods, AIMake’s versatile platform offers a little something for everyone. With AIMake, xTool is opening new pathways for artists and designers—one prompt at a time.
