10 Best Compact + Space-Saving Gear For An Organized Work Desk

It doesn’t matter where you’re working, whether at home or in a commercial life, both these scenarios involve a desk! A desk is probably one of the most important pieces of furniture in our modern lives, only because we spend the majority of our day on it. You may be typing away to glory, munching away on a snack, or simply fidgeting with a random object – you do end up spending hours on your desk. And hence, your desk must be neat, tidy, and uncluttered. Not only will this improve your work routine and productivity, but it will also help you maintain a clearer and more streamlined mindset. And, I’ve discovered that adding limited, quality, and innovative products to my desk setup can help me in achieving these goals! And we’ve curated a collection of smart and well-designed desk gear to help you achieve peak productivity. Happy working!

1. POD

This little minimalist timer is designed to help you enjoy the benefits of a Pomodoro timer, without having to depend on a clunky analog timer, especially one that will end up looking like an awkward little tomato on your desk. It has a simple and compact form that will occupy minimum space on your desk.

Why is it noteworthy?

Called POD, this innovative tool merges the feeling of an analog timer with the convenience and utility of an electronic device in a minimalist, simple, and appealing form. You can start the countdown by pushing the puck down like a button.

What we like

  • It is minimally distracting and uses only flashing lights rather than vibrations or sounds to get your attention

What we dislike

  • You need to replace the battery which can seem a bit annoying and tedious
  • Quite tiny, so you can easily misplace it

2. Pen Fan

Named the Pen Fan, this unique stationery design is a must-have for your desk. It is intended to be a cross between a Pantone shade card, and a stationery set. It holds 8 different flat-head sketch pens in a set that is compact, neat, and easy-to-carry along everywhere with you.

Why is it noteworthy?

The various pens of the Pen Fan are interconnected, which forms an adorable Japanese-fan-style layout that beautifully showcases all 8 colors, allowing you to pick and choose from them. The pens are detachable, so you can quite easily snap them on and off, building a palette that caters to you.

What we like

Easy-to-carry and portable set

Eliminates the risk of misplacing the pens

What we dislike

  • There are only 8 colors to pick from, which can be limiting. There could have been more color options

3. Serenity Pen Stand

Dubbed the Serenity Pen Stand, this minimalist design features a metallic hint that is designed to hold your pen upright, keeping it ready for you to use. And since pens are quite easy to use, this pen stand makes sure you never lose track of your prized pen, and that it is always in your sight.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39

Why is it noteworthy?

The Serenity Pen Stand makes sure that you will always have easy access to your pen, protecting it, and ensuring you never lose it. It is made using aluminum and copper and makes for a well-balanced cylinder, that will add a burst of color and personality to your work desk.

What we like

  • Has a heavy copper bottom, that will lower the center of gravity, providing it with a stable form
  • Has a sleek minimal design that is easy to set up and carry

What we dislike

  • It is quite small in size and can be easily misplaced
  • Not a lot of color options to pick from

4. World Clock

If you often find yourself lagging, and unable to complete tasks in the required time, then you may want to consider this unique clock design to keep a check on the time. Called the World Clock, this isn’t your typical desk clock, and it features a dodecagonal shape, with only one hand and a minimalist face.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

Why is it noteworthy?

The World Clock has an innovative design and form, as it not only gives you the correct info about your country but also some fun extra details on the time in other parts of the world. With one glance, you can tell the hour, while a closer look will tell you which quarter of the hour it is.

What we like

  • Features 12 sides that have individual markings for a city that represent a particular timezone

What we dislike

  • The  World Clock has only 12 set time zones, so you may miss out on some other time zones

5. Planet Pins

Called the Planet Pins, this colorful and quirky little creation is hand-painted planet pins that look like the solar system. It includes eight extraterrestrial shapes, each one hand-painted and stored in a compact polished acrylic display case. The pins were hand-painted in Tokyo.

Why is it noteworthy?

The pins include Mercury in metallic silver, Venus in metallic gold, Earth in painted blue and green, Jupiter in yellow, dark orange, and translucent orange, Mars in red, Saturn in yellow with a metallic silver ring, Uranus in a metallic blue with a metallic silver ring, and Neptune in blue and a lovely white.

What we like

  • Delivered in serial-numbered display cases, so when not in use, you can store them in the boxes and display them

What we dislike

  • The pins are quite tiny, so you can easily misplace them if they’re not handled with care

6. Precision Sakura Metal Puzzle

Named the Precision Metal Sakura Puzzle, this little puzzle will give your brain the satisfying yet challenging game it needs. It is shaped after Japan’s most iconic flowers, and the pieces look so similar, that you’ll be wondering where to put them and how to place them together!

Click Here to Buy Now: $299

Why is it noteworthy?

As you assemble the metal puzzle, it will take on the shape of Japan’s iconic sakura flowers. The little puzzle is made from mirror-finish stainless steel with tiny pieces that seamlessly and perfectly fit together, challenging your mind, and putting your brain to the test.

What we like

  • Compact, no-frills design that you can carry anywhere with you

What we dislike

  • It can be challenging to put together, so it is not the best option for users who want a relaxing puzzle-making experience

7. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter

Called the Effortless Standing Letter Cutter, this little tool is one of the essentials you need on your work desk. It is a simple tool that can boost your daily productivity, and help you maintain an organized desk, as it doubles up as a paperweight as well!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Effortless Standing Letter Cutter reimagines a standard office cool, and cuts through your paper efficiently and effectively, while also doubling up as a chick paperweight, that ensures your desk is neat, clean, and tidy. It is the ultimate solution for boosting productivity!

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

What we like

  • Cuts precisely leaving no messy scraps behind
  • Functions as a paperweight as well, ensuring less clutter on your desk

What we dislike

  • Not versatile enough to deal with bulkier packages or intricate mail

8. Blocco Calculator

The Blocco Calculator is a functional and aesthetic calculator, unlike other ordinary calculators on the market. The calculator perfectly merges precision and beauty in a sincere and minimalist form, functioning as a visually attractive addition to your desk. It occupies minimum space on your desk while doing its job.

Why is it noteworthy?

The calculator features an ergonomic and universal design which is great for both left-handed and right-handed users. It has an angular chamfered surface that ensures effortless and quick typing while elevating the calculator’s visual appeal.

What we like

  • The calculator projects calculations onto the paper
  • Aesthetic and good-looking design

What we dislike

  • The usage is limited, as the calculator needs a flat surface to project the equations out clearly

9. Everlasting All Metal Pencil

The Everlasting All-Metal Pencil is a much-needed addition to your desk! It lets you bid farewell to the eternal cycle of pencil sharpening and dealing with mechanical leads. It allows you to harness your creative ideas, and let them flow freely without any hindrance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $20

Why is it noteworthy?

The special pencil has been crafted with a special alloy core and features an aluminum body that doesn’t need any sharpening. It leaves marks without wearing down the core, making it quite a practical and durable writing instrument.

What we like

  • Easily erased by regular erasers
  • Provides a smooth and seamless writing experience

What we dislike

  • The pencil doesn’t provide the same grip and comfort as traditional wooden pencils

10. ForeverPen

Named the ForeverPen, this unique pen is made from Ti + Ag, and it sits neatly on your desk! It is said to be the world’s smallest inkless pen and doesn’t need refilling ever. You can even write underwater with it, or open boxes – it isn’t an ordinary everyday pen.

Why is it noteworthy?

The ForeverPen is made from a specialist Silver composite, and you can combine it with the material of your choice. It measures only one inch in length and can jot down all your notes, while also letting you slide open packages and boxes.

What we like

  • Easy-to-carry and portable design
  • Functions as much more than just a simple pen

What we dislike

  • It is not the best option for users with big hands, as they may find it tough to hold
  • Quite tiny, and you can easily lose it

The post 10 Best Compact + Space-Saving Gear For An Organized Work Desk first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Travel Accessories & Gadgets For Your 2024 Vacation Plans

Everywhere you look whether on Instagram, YouTube or Facebook, people are jet-setting about freely. My travel bucket is currently brimming with places I need to visit. But as any experienced traveler will definitely tell you, before you set off on your next adventure, you need to put together a collection of handy, reliable, and well-designed travel accessories. Great travel accessories are essential, they have your back in the most sudden and spontaneous of situations, providing you with aid and relief when you least expect it. And, we’ve put together a bunch of innovative and functional travel-friendly products that you need to pack in your suitcase for your next trip! From a sushi-themed suitcase to a wireless speaker/power bank– these products are the must-haves you need for your next holiday.

1. Audio 1

Braun is known for its functional, durable, and timeless products that never seem to fall short. And this wireless speaker power bank concept called the Audio 1, takes inspiration from Braun’s evergreen legacy, borrowing the brand’s principles and presenting them in a beautiful fusion of modern technology and retro design.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Audio 1 has two sides – one dedicated to the speaker functionality, and the other one for the integrated power bank and controls. This elevates the user’s experience, while also signifying Braun’s design theme of limiting clutter, and creating a clean, neat, and organized appearance.

What we like

  • Ensures a hassle-free experience and eliminates the need for multiple cables

What we dislike

  • No LCD display to show critical battery information

2. Nothing Power Bank

Called the Nothing power bank, this little gadget is the perfect companion for your travel adventures. It has transparent aesthetics that beautifully showcase the innards’ glory and beauty. The interior elements are illuminated by small warm-toned LEDS, which give the little accessory a Cyberpunkish look inside and out.

Why is it noteworthy?

This power bank is a perfect match for Nothing as it is quite functional, and has a no-frills nature. Although there are many options in the market, this transparent power bank would be an excellent addition to Nothing’s ever-growing ecosystem of product lines.

What we like

  • The power bank complements the Nothing Phone (2)
  • Features sleek transparent aesthetics

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we’re not sure how well it would translate into a tangible product

3. DOTS

Named DOTS, this portable coffee machine is a perfect fit for an automated vehicle, but it can be utilized for other on-the-go scenarios as well. The DOTS can be used for those long and tiring car journeys, where you need to get somewhere fast, but cannot stop for a quick coffee break.

Why is it noteworthy?

The coffee machine has a removable button, so you can adapt it however you want, depending on your need for it. It uses coffee capsules instead of the usual brewing method, making the coffee machine easier to use.

What we like

  • Features a control or lever that lets you adjust the intensity of the extraction method

What we dislike

  • It has a lid to place a straw on it, but sipping hot coffee with a straw seems weird and uncomfortable

4. Aroma Fragrance Pin

When you’re traveling around, you’re bound to get hot and sweaty, and if you want to maintain a lovely aroma around you at all times, then you may want to get your hands on the Aroma Fragrance pin. This tiny pin is a little holder that can hold cotton dabbed with your essential oil of choice. This allows a strong yet subtle fragrance to envelope you throughout the day.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

Why is it noteworthy?

The Aroma Fragrance pin forms an individual fragrance bubble for you, which follows you around everywhere. You can top it up, once the smell begins to fade away, and is an excellent option for those with sensitive noses who may get affected by the aerosol particles in typical perfumes.

What we like

  • The pin looks like a fashionable button-style accessory and has color options to choose from

What we dislike

  • The aroma will last depending on the quality of the aromatic oil, so you will need to partake in some trial and error till you find a long-lasting fit

5. Monos Luggage

Monos’ luggage collection is designed to be whimsical, fun, and yet super functional. They have a diverse and fun range of suitcases including the Monos x Magnolia Bakery collaboration with the iconic NYC-based Magnolia Bakery. They also have a sophisticated Terrazzo which is a limited edition and involves a hard shell luggage option that looks very much like Terrazzo.

Why is it noteworthy?

The carry-on and check-in bags have aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shells that feature 360° spinner wheels. The inside of every case is lined with an anti-microbial lining made from 100% recycled polyester, which is further adorned with ultra-microfiber vegan leather detailing.

What we like

  • Equipped with TSA-approved combination locks, dual Y-shaped compression straps, and dividers, accentuated with YKK reverse coil zippers, and a flexible telescopic handle

What we dislike

  • A bit on the pricey side

6. AirPods/AirPods Pro Neck Strap

This AirPods/AirPods Pro Neck Strap is great for listening to tunes on your next journey. It features a woven necklace that is designed for globetrotters who own AirPods. You can forget about the days you spend rummaging through your backpack or the panic of misplacing an earbud in busy airports.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39.

Why is it noteworthy?

The chic and functional accessory keeps your AirPods safely around your neck at all times, perfectly merging fashion with practicality. It has a patented One-Click Magnetic Lock that keeps your earbuds secure and safe, whether you’re boarding a flight, or roaming around a new city.

What we like

  • Eliminates the chance of losing your AirPods
  • Keeps your AirPods within reach and easily accessible

What we dislike

  • It could expose your AirPods to damage, dirt, and the weather elements

7. Sushi Suitcases

These adorable suitcases are inspired by sushi! They were created keeping in mind the dual tones of nigiri, with an element of ‘white rice’ topped up by a colorful ingrediant. Merging luggage with sushi doesn’t seem so odd, when you imagine these containers on airport conveyor belts and how similar they look to sushi on food conveyor belts in Japan!

Why is it noteworthy?

The luggage come in three popular types of sushi – yellow egg “tamago” design, brown eel “unagi”, and orange salmon “sake”, giving you the choice between three adorable, functional and whimsical suitcase designs.

What we like

  • Features a strap with an area for writing your information

What we dislike

  • Isnt a groundbreaking new design, and is more focused on aesthetics than functionality

8. G5 Clothes Steamer

Designed by Nesugar, the G5 clothes steamer is much like the G2 and G3. It packs the reliable and durable functions of the predecessors, while also merging new functions that are functional and innovative. It is ultra portable, and the perfect companion for your travel adventures.

Why is it noteworthy?

The clothes steamer doesn’t need any water addition for a week or so, and doesn’t compromise the daily ironing needs. This is because it has larger panels, and three-layer heating bodies which support an efficient vaporization and better steam volume.

What we like

  • Equipped with a new feature to prevent high-temperature water splashes

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

9. Carry On Shampoo

The Carry On is a ingenious yet super simple solution that lets you carry a dedicated travel mini-bottle, and it comes along with your existing at-home shampoo bottle! It has a compact design that comes conveniently packaged with your regular bottle of shampoo. You can carry the mini bottle with you on your travels, and refill it when you’re running low!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Carry On is an economy-sized 1 liter, and it comes with its own handle built into the bottle’s design. But when you buy it off the shelf, the handle has a carry bottle that perfectly fits into it like a jigsaw puzzle. The smaller one is 50ml, and can get you through a week-long holiday.

What we like

  • Lets you use your favorite shampoo, instead of the substandard ones you get in hotel

What we dislike

  • The carry on bottle is quite small, so there is a chance of easily losing or misplacing it

10. Taco Device

This little taco device is inspired by the metaphor or pun “Let’s taco ’bout it”, and slowly evolved into something that is inspired by the shape of a taco, and is designed to help you connect with people from different countries and regions. It looks like a taco and can be used by both the speaker and listener!

Why is it noteworthy?

Looking like a little taco, the device can be utilized by both the speaker and listener. It is like those two-way cup devices you may have used when you were younger, but this time it is equipped with digital technology!

What we like

  • Makes communicating more fun and functional

What we dislike

  • The shape is good for holding and gripping, but not great at catching sound correctly

The post 10 Best Travel Accessories & Gadgets For Your 2024 Vacation Plans first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Kitchen Appliances To Prepare Healthy Meals & Achieve Your Fitness Goals In 2024

I honestly don’t approve of the word ‘health freak’ because it seems like a negative term used for those who genuinely and wholeheartedly want to focus on their holistic health and dedicate time and energy to bettering it. Of course, there are always a few people who take dedication to a whole other unhealthy level, but I do believe most of us have good intentions and balanced mindsets when it comes to taking care of our diet and health. I prefer the term ‘health nerd’ for this crowd, and if you’re a health nerd who has decided to not only consume but cook your healthy everyday meals, then you’ve reached the right spot. In an attempt to support your cooking plan and help you eat better, we’ve curated a collection of kitchen appliances that make healthy cooking easy and simple.

1. The Cheat Sheets

These oven-safe, non-stick silicone dividers are called the Cheat Sheets, and they are created to transform and elevate oven cooking. They convert a single baking tray into a multi-compartment cooking surface, which lets you prepare multiple dishes in one go while retaining their distinctive flavor.

Why is it noteworthy?

The innovative Cheat Sheets divide a single sheet pan into a multi-portion culinary canvas, which can hold six small or three large portions. The Cheat Sheets are a great option for preparing family meals or for your weekly meal planning. In fact, if you have multiple Cheat Sheets, you can prepare healthy baked meals with real efficiency and control.

What we like

  • Lets you cook multiple dishes in one tray simultaneously
  • It can prepare various portion sizes, which is great for family or individual meals

What we dislike

  • The sheets are made from silicone which can easily get covered with dust and grease, creating a sticky surface if not used regularly

2. Cookmate

This innovative and handy kitchen appliance is called the Cookmate, and it is designed to be all-in-one. You can use the Cookmate for prep, cooking, and serving. It has a modular design with stackable pieces that let it function as a crock pot, pan, or steam – supporting various healthy cooking techniques.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Cookmate is an induction cooktop that focuses on every aspect of the cooking process. It sees the cooking process as something that progresses from ingredient to table. This allows Cookmate to be universally applicable, allowing you to save energy, effort, and space with other vessels.

What we like

  • Equipped with an integrated weighing scale
  • It can be split into 6 parts

What we dislike

  • It is a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

3. Good Grips Salad Dressing Shaker

If you’re trying to eat healthy, then one of the best and easiest dishes you can prepare is a salad! And if you’re ready to chop up a delicious salad, then you may want to consider this shaker and pourer by OXO. It is a smart modern solution that helps you churn up some yummy dressing without making a major mess in your kitchen.

What we like

The shaker features a wide top that you can unscrew to add and mix up ingredients like vinegar, oil, onions, garlic, and mayonnaise to prepare a delicious dressing. The cup has measurements in milliliters and ounces to support easy and efficient measuring.

What we like

  • It is a leakproof design, ensuring there are no spills
  • Besides dressing, you can use it to prepare and serve sauces and marinades

What we dislike

  • The shaker seems to be a bit fragile and easily breakable, so needs to be handled with care

4. Plate Grater

This extraordinary little grate perfectly merges a plate’s functionality with a grater’s practicality. It is shaped like a round little plate and is designed to be set on the table, rather than being used up in the air. The Plate Grater is excellent for grating fresh garnishing for your meals, or some wasabi for your sushi.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

Why is it noteworthy?

The grater/plate design is known for its dual functionality, as it serves as both an effective grater and a stylish plate. It is not only aesthetically pleasing but is also excellent for grating fresh ingredients at the table, adding a refined gourmet touch to your food.

What we like

  • You can grate fresh garnishing onto your meals
  • Adds a gourmet touch to your meals

What we dislike

  • Users may not be accustomed to its dual purpose, so it may require a period of adjustment

5. 4T7 Smart Chopping Board

Called the 4T7 Smart Chopping Board, this innovative kitchen appliance is designed to simplify every stage of meal prep and help beyond it as well. It is made up of different parts, which come together to form a creative and united product that can help you in your quest for healthy eating.

Why is it noteworthy?

The chopping board is equipped with 4 distinct parts, one of which is a built-in weight scale. The 4T7 also has an accompanying smartphone app that counts calories as you weigh your ingredients. Once the prep work has been completed, the digital display can also function as a kitchen timer.

What we like

  • The board’s different components are designed to be functional and independent elements as well
  • Works great for fruits, veggies, and meats

What we dislike

  • Count calories precisely, which can get users unhealthily addicted to counting calories at all times

6. Playful Palm Grater

Dubbed the Playful Palm Grater, this playful and amusing little product is created to add some functional fun to your kitchen and dining experience. It will fit snugly into the palm of your hand, grating some fresh garnishings into your food, and adding a gourmet touch to your everyday meals.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The Playful Palm Grater is a charming little product that resembles a curled piece of paper. It is made from a single aluminum alloy plate and is available in vibrant color options, so you can pick the one that best suits your kitchen/dining space.

What we like

  • Has a unique and minimal form that offers a firm grip
  • Transforms the simple act of grating into something convenient, fun, and playful

What we dislike

  • It has a pretty small size, so you can’t use it to grate large amounts of food

7. Electric Chopsticks

Electric Chopsticks Design

These electric chopsticks are an interesting project by Kirin Holdings and the Miyashita Laboratory (Meiji University Dr. Homei Miyashita Laboratory of the Department of Frontier Media Science, School of Interdisciplinary Mathematical Sciences). It includes a chopstick device that is equipped with an electrical stimulation waveform that can customize and adjust the taste of low-sodium food.

Why is it noteworthy?

These innovative chopsticks are designed to make low-sodium food tasty, you can enjoy food with low-sodium content, allowing you to take better care of your health. These chopsticks are an excellent option for those who need to go on a low-sodium diet.

What we like

  • Adds a sense of saltiness to low-sodium food
  • Uses a weak electrical current to transmit sodium ions from the food to your mouth

What we dislike

  • It’s still in the prototype stage, not an actual product yet, so we don’t know how it will turn out to be

8. Joseph Joseph Salad Bowl & Servers Set

We’ve found another great tool, if you’re trodding down the path of healthy eating, and want to prepare some quick and tasty salads. Joseph Joseph and Element Studio teamed up to create this minimal and smart salad bowl and servers set. It is a space-saving design, that seamlessly merges both products into one nifty product, creating a clever combination of functionality and form.

Why is it noteworthy?

The bowl and servers set are excellent for preparing some salad, while also occupying minimal space on your dining table or kitchen drawers. They offer an exciting take on an ordinary salad bowl, and a rather mundane servers set. They make preparing and serving salads an interesting and fun experience.

What we like

  • Ingeniously merges two products into one
  • Space-saving design that will occupy minimum space in your kitchen and dinner table

What we dislike

  • There seem to be no diverse options in colors and sizes, limited choice

9. Fresh Fridge

Meet the Fresh Fridge by Tati Feruccio. It is designed to help you eat more mindfully, and ditch the latest trendy diets, for something that is sustainable and manageable. The smart refrigerator analyzes the user’s eating and health habits to portion and plan out healthy meals from them throughout the day. It features a digital interface, right above the fridge.

Why is it noteworthy?

The innovative digital interface displays cooking recipes and interesting facts. It is like a personal cooking show for the multiple meals throughout the day! There is also a space for meal preparation that makes following recipes from the screen super easy and simple.

What we like

  • Supports and encourages mindful eating over following trendy and unsustainable fad diets
  • Features an integrated digital interface

What we dislike

  • We don’t know how precisely the fridge will analyze portions, and how well would they work for users

10. STEAMIE

Named STEAMIE, this kitchen appliance reintroduces steam into mainstream cooking! It can cook food without diluting or compromising on the flavor, providing you with healthy food, that is not only rich in nutrients but also pretty delicious. It is a tabletop appliance that will present you with food that is nutritious and delicious.

Why is it noteworthy?

STEAMIE is equipped with a built-in scale that lets you measure your food before you cook it. It also features a bamboo-wood lid that functions as a cutting board for food prep. You can watch your food being prepared via the frosted-acrylic food bowl, while an intuitive display lets you input and check prep times.

What we like

  •  Utilizes a unique turbo convection method to rapidly steam-cook the food

What we dislike

  • Bulky and heavy form that will occupy substantial space on your kitchen counter or dining table

The post Top 10 Kitchen Appliances To Prepare Healthy Meals & Achieve Your Fitness Goals In 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Meditation Tools To Help You Achieve A Zen Mental State

Look, I know life can get hectic and work can be super exhausting, which can be brutal for our mental health. Taking care of our mental well-being has never been more essential, considering how chaotic life can get. As much as we tend to pay attention to our physical well-being, it’s time to do the same for our mental health. Meditation can really help you unwind, release stress, and create an overall tranquil mindset. Although if you’re anything like me, sitting still without a single thought in your head can seem damn near impossible! Hence we’ve curated a collection of innovative gadgets to help you master the art of meditation. From a meditation headset designed by Layer to a battery-free aroma diffuser – these inventive product designs are all you need to inculcate meditation sessions into your daily routine! Start your day or end it on a peaceful and tranquil note. You can thank us later!

1. Japanese Lantern Candle

Designed to look like a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, this pretty Japanese lantern candle has an interesting pillar shape and is essential for your bedroom or bathroom on the days you decide to give yourself some much-needed me-time and pampering. The lantern has a soothing and aesthetic appearance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Japanese lantern candle provides a contemporary and modern take on an iconic Japanese design. It has a minimalist design that lets it seamlessly merge with any modern living space perfectly and emits a relaxing glow that will instantly make you feel at ease, and help you enter a meditative state.

What we like

  • Since the wax is non-melting, it creates a lovely clarity on the candle

What we dislike

  • The candle is a fire hazard, so you need to use it carefully around kids and pets

2. ASMR Zen Ball

This little compact ball is called the ASMR Zen Ball, and it perfectly fuses natural and engineered elements to create a space-inspired design that provides a calming and relaxing experience to its users. The nifty little product has a meteorite-inspired porous surface that functions as an excellent absorbent surface for your aroma oils, which helps create a meditative experience for you.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The Zen Ball is made from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy, which lets it double up as a fidget toy, creating an interactive experience, where users can connect with the natural energy of the earth.

What we like

  • The Zen Ball also doubles up as a fidget toy, which provides sensory stimulation

What we dislike

  • The ball could get rolling due to accidental bumps when not attached to its base

3. Rin Harmony Incense Holder

The Rin Harmony Incense Holder lets you enjoy the smoky and relaxing aroma of your favorite incense stick, letting you calm down, irrespective of where you are. The holder is built from natural walnut wood, and it serves as a storage space for the incense sticks, as well as a base for the burning incense.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199

Why is it noteworthy?

The brass plate functions as a safe space to hold the lit stick, and a matching cover lets you snuff out the flame, while also making sure that the ashes don’t fly around.

What we like

  • Dual-functional design with a minimal form
  • Great companion for your calming exercises and meditation

What we dislike

  • The holder only allows one incense to be lit at a time, so the reach of the aroma is limited

4. LightVision Meditation Headset

Designed by Layer Design, the LightVision meditation headset is an interesting innovation with an array of LED lights that create a layer of magic to the natural visual feed of the user. It transforms natural videos into a sequence of biomorphic patterns, which are visible to the closed eyes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The patterns are visible as an ever-changing kaleidoscope of sequences that trigger the brain’s “frequency-following response”.  This results in a distraction-free state of mind letting you meditate and unwind.

What we like

  • An ergonomic form that is comfortable on the face and eyes

What we dislike

  • Meditating with the help of screens may result in tired eyes if you’re using them for long periods of time

5. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser

If you’re in the mood to meditate, then this battery-free aroma diffuser is your perfect companion. It lets you take a deep and relaxing breath without causing any kind of harm to the environment. When you use the battery-free aroma diffuser, you harness the power of a single candle as it uses simple science and physics.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

As its name signifies, the diffuser doesn’t need any batteries or external power source to operate. It only uses the heat of a single candle to spread some amazing aromatic scents. Made from sustainable materials, the diffuser has a minimalist and eco-friendly design philosophy.

What we like

  • Built from recyclable materials
  • Compatible with all kinds of essential oils

What we dislike

  • Since the diffuser lacks electric controls, it is tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma

6. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Named the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this little design induces relaxation as it recreates the smell and lovely experience of a mesmerizing outdoor fire. It perfectly captures all the scents, smells, and memories of a memorable outdoor fire, but within the comfort of your own home, without the dangers of a large outdoor fire.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The wood collected for the diffuser is from branches that were meant to be thrown away. They give off a distinct warm smoky steel when they are burnt on the stainless steel mini oven, emitting a comforting and serene aroma.

What we like

  • You can use the diffuser as a heating or cooking stool by adding a piece of solid wood, making it a distinct multifunctional design

What we dislike

  • Requires small pieces of wood, can’t be used with larger pieces of wood

7. Stress-free Aroma Diffuser

Meet the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser which helps you sit back and relax while breathing in an excellent mix of aromatic blends, that have been specially selected to soothe your mind, and help you meditate and unwind. Play some calming music, and let yourself relax with the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

Why is it noteworthy?

The Stress-free Aroma Diffuser emits a gentle breeze, which disperses the aroma evenly wherever you are sitting. It features a porcelain filter that absorbs the oil to provide a long-lasting experience.

What we like

  • The base is polished and provides an interesting contrast to the organic-looking porcelain disc, letting it function as an elegant decoration piece

What we dislike

  • Looks easily breakable and fragile, so it must be handled with care

8. The SOUL

The SOUL is an ambient sound generator with a pure all-white minimalist form factor with 8 tactile slides on the top and ambient lighting at the base of the speaker. You don’t need to connect it to your Wi-Fi, and does it come with an app, nor does it have Bluetooth.

Why is it noteworthy?

The SOUL is designed to help you calm down, and not bog you down with features, and paid subscriptions. The sliders on the top resemble tactile spherical sliders, and they let you build out your soundscape, letting you choose between different sounds, and how loud you want them.

What we like

  • The 8 sliders allow you to customize your sound, helping you focus, destress, meditate, or even fall asleep

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual product, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

9. Focus

Dubbed Focus, this unique design merges an aroma diffuser and a mood lamp to form an object that will remind you of a scented candle. Focus is meant to touch your different senses, letting you unwind, and enter a soothing meditative state, where you can leave all your cumbersome worries behind.

Why is it noteworthy?

In its unlit mode, Focus resembles a small wireless speaker, but when turned on, it allows you to take a break and relax, while also encouraging you to be mindful, and helping you to focus at the task on hand.

What we like

  • Lets you take little breaks, and enjoy the present moment

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we are unsure how the actual product will turn out to be

10. Gingko Smart Diffuser Lamp

This is the Gingko Smart Diffuser Lamp – it is equipped with a monolithic form that holds a fragrance diffuser in its upper half, and a compact, well-designed desk lamp in its lower half, allowing it to function as a smart dual-functional product design, that you can place on your desk or bedside table.

Why is it noteworthy?

Made from a combination of wood, copper, and frosted acrylic glass, the diffuser has an earthy warm appearance that is typically seen in most of Gingko’s products, creating a product that is minimal, calming, and surreal.

What we like

  • A portable little device that you can carry around with ease

What we dislike

  • Some people may not prefer wood as their material of choice for diffusers

The post Top 10 Meditation Tools To Help You Achieve A Zen Mental State first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Apple MagSafe Accessories To Jazz Up Your iPhone 15

The reinvention and return of MagSafe were an instant hit! There is a great sense of satisfaction, in my opinion, to have things just stick to your phone. Be it a pair of earphones (maybe that’ll be the next generation of AirPods) or have your phone just conveniently stick to a charging pad – it’s almost like magic. The reintroduction of the MagSafe led to a whole new world of accessories being unleashed. Designers and creatives were racing to create a whole range of products for the repurposed MagSafe. And we’ve been loving every bit of it! From a MagSafe power bank that cools your phone to a handcrafted MagSafe charging stand – there’s a MagSafe accessory out there for your every need. And, we’ve curated many products that we truly believe are worth buying and investing in. This army of accessories will truly amp up your Apple experience!

1. UPRO Ostand Case

Called the UPRO Ostand case, this device is the winner of the iF Design Award, and it provides your iPhone’s MagSafe with a whole bunch of cool upgrades. It can make your phone stand, hang, or stay securely in your hands as you click a selfie or mindlessly scroll through Instagram. The Ostand case may look like your mundane and average iPhone case, but it is equipped with the familiar magnetic ring which gives it a nice upgrade!

2. 2-in-1 Wireless Charger Concept

This 15W MagSafe compatible iPhone 15 charger concept can be placed in a laid-down position or an alternate orientation, allowing the phone to be set up in portrait mode for productivity. The charger’s alternate pad can be utilized to charge your earbuds or Apple Watch in a laid-down position. Although currently, the charger is in the conceptual phase, it does seem interesting enough to be executed by major accessories providers.

3. Icemag

Designed by Sharge, the Icemag is the world’s first power bank with its unique turbo-cooling feature. The power bank keeps itself and your phone cool and breezy during charging. It is equipped with an ultra-silent fan that moves at a speed of 8000 RPM, which actively cools the battery pack inside, while the power bank wirelessly charges your phone, ensuring nothing gets heated up during the charging process.

4. The MAG:3

Designed by Courant, the MAG:3 is a MagSafe wireless charging device that looks like a minimalist valet tray for your iPhone, AirPods, and other little items that you can place on it to make your side table and desk look more organized. The charging device is available in both leather and linen finishes and in several colors, so you can pick the one that perfectly suits your home and work aesthetics.

5. Shin & Han’s MagSafe Accessory

This unique MagSafe-compatible accessory is designed to help you get over digital addiction and spend less time on your phone. You can attach the accessory to the back of your smartphone. It is equipped with a real clock with a single-hour hand to keep you updated on the passing time, making sure that you don’t spend too much time on your phone. The accessory also functions as a holder for your cards and quick cash.

6. Belkin iPhone Mount

 The new Belkin iPhone Mount with MagSafe transforms your iPhone into a webcam for the Apple 4K TV! The versatile mount can be attached directly to your TV with a thickness of up to 40mm without wires or tools. It lets you use your iPhone’s rear camera for FaceTime or Zoom calls. You can also fold the iPhone stand in landscape or portrait mode on a table or wall through magnetic attachment.

7. 6-in-1 MagSafe Charger

This is the world’s first Apple-Certified 6-in-1 MagSafe Charger from ESR that is equipped with a GaN semiconductor, and it doesn’t just charge your small Apple devices, but it also delivers up to 100W of power to your MacBook, providing an all-in-one solution for all your modern day charging requirements. It has three dedicated slots for your iPhone, AirPods, and Watch, as well as three output ports for charging your laptop, tablet, and power bank.

8. Electric Trout Charging Docks

David Stychno’s Electric Trout charging docks are made from acrylic and are newly introduced accessories in the list of metallic and plasticky MagSafe accessories. They have a productive and sleek silhouette that is meant to redefine efficacy and convenience. It is designed for a large spectrum of users and is intended for one, two, or an entire range of Apple’s wearables and handhelds.

9. Side Note

Called the Side Note, this compact leather-bound notebook features an integrated pen and a MagSafe-compatible design that lets you snap it onto your iPhone or any magnetic surface. This little accessory provides you with an analog notepad by your side, letting you quickly and efficiently note down ideas and journal. You don’t need to reach out for a separate physical notepad, as you have a handy one attached to your phone.

10.The MAG.L MagSafe Powerbank

MAG.L MagSafe Powerbank 10000mAh Product Designer

MAG.L MagSafe Powerbank 10000mAh Product Design

The MAG.L MagSafe Powerbank has a 10000mAH capacity that is designed to improve the wireless charging and power bank experience for everyone. Designed by Neo Bie and Leigui Lui for Stylepiece and has four usual operation buttons: SELECT, START, A, B, and a d-pad (directional pad). The lower portion of the yellow power bank has a cover that slides to work as the stand of the power bank.

The post Top 10 Apple MagSafe Accessories To Jazz Up Your iPhone 15 first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Iconic & Influential Women Designers Of The Last Century

8th March is celebrated as International Women’s Day, and rightly so, although in all honesty, we deserve every day to be Women’s Day! Women’s Day is the result of the efforts of a lady called Clara Zetkin, the leader of the ‘Women’s Office’ for the Social Democratic Party in Germany. In 1910, she proposed that every country should have a celebration every year on the same day – a Women’s Day, a day when women could press for their demands. Cut to 2024, and Women’s Day is a 24-hour period where we widely celebrate the women all around us, and in every aspect of our lives. And we’re taking it upon ourselves to celebrate the iconic women in our design world! These women paved the path for women in the design and architecture industry, changing the perceived status of women in this arena, and making space for their successors to push boundaries liberally and without hindrances. Although even today there is a gender disparity in the design world, with women designers facing experiences of bias and prejudice, and with the product and industrial design world being primarily 78-95% male. But let’s take a moment to celebrate these iconic women designers, creators, and innovators and raise a toast to them!

1. Zaha Hadid

The late Zaha Hadid was the first woman to win the Pritzker Prize for Architecture in 2003, and also the first female star architect who managed to transform, and deeply influence the status of women in the design world. Known as the ‘Queen of the Curve’, her unique creative vision positively impacted and changed the design and architecture world, while also establishing that a woman can conquer these worlds in her unique way and style. Her feisty personality, intense determination, and desire to challenge the design status quo supported her in consistently pushing the limits of form and function. Her first major public building  – the Rosenthal Centre for Contemporary Art in Ohio opened in 2003 and marked an important turning point, where critics and the rest of the world accepted her as the force she truly was.

2. Ray Eames

Everyone’s heard of the Eames Lounge Chair. It was the centerpiece of any office in the 1960s and 1970s, and it has still maintained its relevance and value even today. You’ve probably heard of the mastermind behind it – Charles Eames, but you may not be aware of his wife Ray Eames, who played an equally important role in its birth and creation. The duo spent most of their time experimenting with plywood, which led to their first mass-manufactured product – a molded plywood leg splint that would be purchased in abundance by the US Navy. They played around with different materials, using fiberglass, aluminum, leather, and plywood to build furniture. Even after Charles died in 1978, Ray continued to spread their design philosophy and beliefs through her writing and numerous talks.

3. Hella Jongerious

The Dutch designer Hella Jongerious is considered a master of colors and texture in her profession of industrial design. The strong-headed and independent designer once said “Design is not about objects. Design is about relations”. She founded her studio called the Jongeriuslab studio in 1993, and since then has worked with major clients such as Maharam, Danskina, IKEA, and KLM. Through her work with textiles, ceramics, and furniture, she has highlighted the importance and magnitude of colors and surfaces in contemporary designs. She designed the Polder Sofa for the Swiss company Vitra, which is one of her most distinctive and popular pieces. It is inspired by her home country – the Netherlands and is a beautiful mixture of asymmetrical shapes and cushions in various colors and fabrics.

4. Neri Oxman

Israeli-American architect, designer, and professor Neri Oxman is the founder of the Mediated Matter Group at the MIT Media Lab. Her work is incredibly pioneering, and she had to coin the word “material ecosystem” to describe it. She combines technology, biology, and design to create astounding projects such as the Silk Pavilion and the Wanderers Wearable Skins, which pushed the boundaries of what fabrication and design could do. Her 3D-printed wearable skins are designed for interplanetary pilgrims, and they have been merged with synthetically engineered microorganisms to make the hostile habitable.

“Nature does not come together. “It expands,” she said at Design Indaba. “At this point, there is a collision between the worlds of civilization and nature.” It is a gradual process, but they are coming together.”

5. Kazuyo Sejima

Kazuyo Sejima is a Japanese architect, and also the second woman to win the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2010, following Zaha Hadid’s lead a few years later. Sejima claims, “Being an architect. I am just interested in making architecture.”, and this comes through in her clean, minimalist, and yet innovative design style. Her works are highlighted by a subtle and minimal character, and they often playfully blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. One such project is the Laview commuter train, which features massive windows, and a curved edge glass nose. The commuter train was designed to make the passengers feel like they’re at home, instead of on a train moving between Tokyo and Saitama. The carriages were created to make the passengers feel comfortable and at ease, mimicking the experience of sitting in your own house.

6. Florence Knoll Bassett

Florence Knoll Bassett was an American architect and furniture designer who completely revolutionized and transformed the design of workplaces, in turn shaping the mid-century modern design movement. She was trained by the three giants of European Modernism – Marcel Breuer, Walter Gropius, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, which helped her immensely as she began working for her husband’s furniture company, which was later named Knoll Associates. She created the concept of the modern open-plan office, truly reimagining workplace spaces. Her open-plan ‘Knoll look’ interior completely rejuvenated the office landscape of corporate America, and the impact still lingers on how offices are designed today. She took over Knoll Associates after her husband died in 1955, and the company continued to grow and flourish under her leadership.

7. Greta Magnusson-Grossman

Greta Magnusson Grossman, a Swedish designer, seamlessly merged Scandinavian sensibilities with the midcentury design movement in California in the 1940s. Grossman was not only renowned for her furniture designs but also for her architectural projects, particularly homes in the Los Angeles area, which embraced open floor plans and integrated with the surrounding landscape. Despite her success in architecture, Grossman is best known today for her lamp designs, notably the Grasshopper floor lamp and the Cobra table lamp, both of which have gained iconic status in the midcentury-modern design canon. Towards the end of her career, Grossman also taught furniture design at UCLA from 1957 to 1963.

8. Suzanne Vanderbilt

Suzanne Vanderbilt, a trailblazing auto designer at GM, began her career as one of the original Damsels of Design. Vanderbilt joined GM after graduating from Pratt Institute in 1955 and worked on automotive interior design for Chevrolet and Cadillac. Her innovative work included patents for ergonomic automobile seats and safety switches, although these were never produced. Despite facing setbacks and sexism, she persevered, rising to become chief designer of Chevrolet’s Interior Studio by 1972. Vanderbilt’s career was marked by a pursuit of perfection and creativity, reflected in her dedication to automotive design. Her pursuits in the male-dominated automotive industry helped pave the way for other women designers like Diane Allen and Michelle Christensen.

9. Diane Allen

Diane Allen is a senior designer manager at Nissan Design America in San Diego, and she also manages the design programs for the Nissan brand assigned to NDA by the Nissan Global Design Center in Japan. She designed the 2016 Nissan Titan, which is a heavy-duty pick-up truck made from pure gearhead muscle, and capable of hauling everything from boats to horse trailers! She manages the design process of the TITAN family of trucks – overseeing the design concept and sketch development to the production sheet metal, and designing and prototyping of all the different parts, accessories, and wheels! She also managed the Nissan 350Z and 370Z sports coupes, the Rogue crossover SUV, and the Infinity QX56 SUV.

10. Michelle Christensen

Michelle Christensen made history by becoming the auto industry’s first female to lead the development of a supercar when she headed the 2017 remodel of the iconic Acura NSX. It is a second-gen hybrid supercar that was named “Performance Car of the Year” by Road & Track. The launch of the automotive was highly awaited, as it was being re-released 25 years after its original debut. She graduated in transport design from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, and went on to work for Honda, General Motors, and then Acura – the luxury division of Honda.

The post 10 Iconic & Influential Women Designers Of The Last Century first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Automotives That Rate High On Speed, Looks, & Safety Standards

The automotive designs that have been pouring in at Yanko Design have truly blown our minds! Each automotive design was cutthroat and innovative, bringing in something that we don’t usually see in the market. 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.  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. The Diode

Called the Diode, this e-bike concept was designed by Tien Hung, and it has a neo-minimalistic design that pays tribute to the future of the electric power train. The bike is almost invisible, excluding one singular horizontal pillar that runs from the dashboard to the taillight, with a large battery module placed underneath it. The bike also has a powerful rear-wheel drivetrain, and a cushy seat.

2. Mayla Yacht

This 44-foot GT super boat by Mayla Yacht is designed to surpass the current designs in the market – in terms of both aesthetics and visual presence. It also comes with an option of gas, diesel, electric, and hybrid powertrains delivering 3000 HP. The monster engines are capable of pushing the speedboat to a top speed of 100 knots.

3. Ford Mini Bronco

The Ford Mini Bronco was designed by Mexico-based Kobayashi, and they gave us a sneak peek into the year 2030. This exceptional car has been designed for the year 2030, and it features modern elements, with a compact two-door configuration, that will remind you of the Suzuki Jimny. It is created to redefine and rejuvenate the off-road segment, by giving it a new perspective.

4. Gocycle CXI Family Cargo Bicycle

 

Gocycle recently unveiled the lightweight Gocycle CXI Family Cargo Bicycle that carries with it the properties of lightweight and portability for people who can’t deal with cumbersome cargo bikes. The lineup includes two e-bikes – the CXi and the CX+ which are quite similar, except the latter one has the new FloFit Handlebar. It permits adjustments for reach height, multiple hand positioning, fingertip controls, and grip angle to toggle the upright or forward stance.

5. 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.

6. MOQBA

This unique conceptual design is a mix of an e-scooter and a bike, and it can climb stairs! Called the MOQBA, it is designed to be the next-gen mobility ride for those who face difficulty in mobility. It is not designed to be a two-wheel automotive, in fact, it rides on four independent legs with wheel extensions. It is designed to be an extraordinary and innovative mini mecha for the future!

7. Model-A

Alef Aeronautics is a California-based sustainable electric transportation company, and it received government certification to fly its Model-A flying car over certain parts of the state, including Silicon Valley. The car is supposed to be the first of its kind and can function as a real car would on the road, but it is also able to vertically take off and fly in the skies. It is truly a step forward to having more vehicles in the sky, besides just planes and helicopters.

8. Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL Flying Car

 

Named the Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL Flying Car, this flying car was designed and developed by the AeroHT electric aviation wing of the Chinese auto company XPeng. The eVTOL flying car is a far cry from the conventional designs found on the market, it is a modular car with a unique and refreshing approach. It has a two-part design – one part car, and the other part is eVTOL, letting the vehicle seamlessly switch between aerial and land modes.

9. BMW Motorrad CH4 Superbike

This stunning café racer is designed by Sabino Leerentveld and it brings the image of Tony Stark taking on the bad guys in an uber-cool style. It features an aerodynamic geometric shape, and big fat wheels designed to provide a high-speed adrenaline rush. The BMW Motorrad CH4 superbike has a total Tony Stark influence and would look exceptional snaking through crowded city streets in hot pursuit of the villains.

10. MIMIC E-Bike

Meet the – MIMIC e-bike! The MIMIC e-bike resembles a crouching jungle cat, and it is a powerful electric bike designed by Roman Dolzhenko. It is equipped with a body that looks more like armor than a bike and features a rounded Tron Light Cycle-inspired form that is outfitted with rounded elements, and a complete absence of sharp edges or straight lines.

The post 10 Best Automotives That Rate High On Speed, Looks, & Safety Standards first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Storage-Centered Desk Designs For Home & Commercial Offices

Desks are the most integral part of any office – whether corporate or modern. And I do spend most of my day on it! Either I’m working away, or watching some Netflix in my free time. Hence, having a great desk is essential! Simply a ‘good’ desk won’t do either. A great desk helps us work comfortably and effectively. It puts us in the right mindset, helping us achieve our daily productivity goals and checkmark all the tasks on our to-do list! Not only should our desks be clean, but they should also sport an ergonomic and functional design! And if a desk has some storage space as well, it checks all the boxes for us. And, we’ve curated a collection of innovative, highly functional, and aesthetically pleasing desk designs, that will end your hunt for a great desk once and for all!

1. Diag Desk

Named the Diag Desk, this modern minimalist desk is designed to optimize desk space while integrating storage elements like removable leather compartments. The Diag Desk is an example of how a simple desk can provide a lot of practicality while maintaining a subtle and stripped-down design.

Why is it noteworthy?

Since the desk is minimalist, a lot of space is given to the desk’s tabletop, and it integrates storage systems that ensure the users have a lot of desk space while keeping the essential stationery designs within reach.

What we like

  • Makes sure your stationery doesn’t fall off
  • Minimalist build that will perfectly complement any living space

What we dislike

  • Not much to differentiate the desk from other desks on the market in terms of aesthetics

2. Hideaway Swing Desk

Called the Hideaway Swing Desk, this desk doubles up as a sleek and sophisticated sideboard. You can transform it from a desk to sideboard, using its different forms for when different needs arise, all you need to do it place it at a different angle. In both states, it is better suited for smaller homes.

Why is it noteworthy?

In its original state, the Hideaway Swing Desk functions as an excellent sideboard that is perfect for smaller homes. But when you move the furniture piece at a 90-degree angle, it transforms into a functional and sturdy workspace.

What we like

  • Intended to be a flexible storage solution that meets various needs in modern homes

What we dislike

  • There seems to be no option for customization

3. Three-Six Desk

Designed by Deniz Aktay, this conceptual desk is is both functional and appealing. It is made from walnut desk, but has an intriguing oragne metal inlay surrounding it. But the inlay isn’t only for aesthetic purposes, it lets you place stuff around your desk without them taking up any place on your desk.

Why is it noteworthy?

The front inlay is an element of the drawers, and they are used to open them. The angular sides can accommodate office accessories like scissors, staplers, and pens. The desk can also store your mobile phone, tablet, and other media devices allowing you to easily reach them.

What we like

  • Can hold a variety of items such as office accessories, devices, books, plants, pen holders and etc

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

4. DEN Desk

Named the DEN Desk, this innovative desk design is truly one-of-a-kind. You can build your desk just the way you like it, but playing around with it, and creating the desk design that perfectly meets your needs. The unique design makes you feel as if you’re playing with LEGO, but you’re building a furniture piece!

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

  • It is a bulky, space-consuming design not well-suited for smaller homes

5. Nice Chair

I love the Nice Chair, because it is not simply a chair, it is also a desk that you can rock back and forth! It is designed to occupy minimum space, and it can be easily assembled and disassembled, it also rocks you back and forth, giving a smooth and enjoyable motion to break the lull of a boring workday.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Nice Chair can function as an ordinary chair to sit on, or as a rocker that moves back and forth. The rounded bottom edges of the chair enable it to rock back and forth, creating a mesmerizing lull that can guide anyone to sleep. 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, which can be quite uncomfortable

6. Buddyhub Desk

Offices can be quite overwhelming and stressful, and sometimes you just need to take a break from the office chaos. Called the Buddyhub Desk, this cute-looking desk features rounded edges and gives you some private space in the hectic environment of offices. It is equipped with a sound-absorbing fabric panel that lines its outer edges.

Why is it noteworthy?

Designed to be a private cocoon, it lets you work without being disturbed by your co-workers and other external factors. It features a sound-absorbing fabric panel that is available in a range of colors, creating a colorful and cute desk, that brightens up any space it is placed in.

What we like

  • Can be customized with a wide range of optional accessories

What we dislike

  • There are similar designs in the market, there is nothing to make it really stand out

7. 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

8. Kabinett

Named Kabinett, this sturdy cabinet works not only as a cabinet but also as a work desk. It was designed by Stockholm-based designer Alexander Lervik and is intended for modern home offices, where its dual functionality lets it serve as an excellent furniture piece for homes and offices.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Kabinett is designed to be an ergonomic set-up for home offices, and it functions as an efficient work table, but also as an elegant and sophisticated dresser. It serves as a stylish and elegant dresser, and you can use it to store your various knick-knacks, books, and etc.

What we like

  • Multifunctional + ergonomic design
  • Its minimal aesthetics are a plus point since this allows the furniture to seamlessly merge with all kinds of home offices

What we dislike

  • Bulky + space-consuming design, not ideal for small homes, or small rooms

9. Pill Writing Desk

Called the Pill Writing Desk, this unique and rather unusual-looking desk has a spherical shape that you don’t really see in desks. When closed it is quite eye-catching, and when open it is quite functional. It functions as a furniture design that also looks like a minimalist piece of art.

Why is it noteworthy?

The desk has an innovative circular form that can be wall-mounted, which makes it look like a wall-hung painting rather than a four-legged floor-resting desk. It stands apart from other desks and has a clean contemporary look that can make any room stand out.

What we like

  • The upper semicircle functions as a writing space with sufficient storage for your belongings

What we dislike

  • Because of its unique shape, the desk looks difficult to clean and maintain

10. Eleven Desk

Eleven Desk Details

Concept Eleven Desk

If you hear Eleven you either think of the number or the popular fictional character from a TV series, and now Eleven is also a special desk that makes your work-from-home routine more fun and productive. It is a unique desk that amps your productivity and makes storage also a breeze.

Why is it noteworthy?

The desk has ample space for everything you need for work. It can hold your laptop, monitor, mouse, and keyboard. There is lots of space for your books, documents, pens, and a mug. There are also hooks beneath the table to hang your bag, headphones, and an additional level for other stuff.

What we like

  • The desk is an excellent option for those who own a lot of stuff, and need them organized and neat
  • It is buildable, and you can quickly assemble it

What we dislike

  • The Eleven Desk is still a prototype, so we are unsure how the final product will be

The post Top 10 Storage-Centered Desk Designs For Home & Commercial Offices first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Sleek & Minimal Multitools For Those Who Are Sick Of Bulky & Hefty Designs

EDCs truly bring the sentence “big things come in small packages” to life. They’re the nifty little tools that are great to have in your backpack or tool kit. But if you’re the kind of person who doesn’t like those bulky and fat multitools that seem to occupy just a bit too much space in your toolbox – then you’ve hit the perfect listicle! We’ve curated minimal sleek multitools that get the work done, without looking too bulky or hefty.  These little superheroes can make a world of difference while completing tasks – whether big or small. And, we’ve curated the best EDC designs we’ve seen in a while! From 8-in-1 EDC scissors to a modular multitool that you can custom-build – these are the EDC designs you definitely need by your side.

1. Windeler

Meet the Windeler, an innovative little design that lets you build and create your own EDC multitool based on your needs and requirements. The sleek Windeler lets you plug in and plug out modules, allowing you to swap out a pocket knife for a flathead screwdriver, or a small pair of scissors.

Why is it noteworthy?

You don’t need always to leave the house with your same old tools, with Windeler you can build, customize, and rebuild your EDC, letting you carry the stuff you truly need, and leave behind the stuff you don’t. It is a nifty multitool that lets you customize your toolbox daily.

What we like

  • Functions as a sleek monolithic multitool that you can just slip into your bag

What we dislike

  • Although it is similar in size to most multitools, it doesn’t feature as many tools as other designs on the market

2. Craftmaster EDC Utility Knife

The Utility Knife is styled like an everyday paper cutter, and it features a stunning all-metal body, with a textured knob that allows you to deploy and lock the blade. The handle is quite weighted and grippy, offering a comfortable and accident-free cutting experience. It also conceals a slick metal scale that you can detach and use independently.

Click Here to Buy Now: $79.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The knife is a simple and sophisticated EDC that cleverly conceals its functionality in its minimalist and sleek design. It features a CNC-machined handle and an enclosed blade that is machined to perfection. This allows the blade to slide through with complete smoothness and zero difficulty.

What we like

  •  Features a 45° slant that lets you open boxes easily and efficiently
  • Features a metal scale, allowing it to double up as a multifunctional design

What we dislike

  • Magnetic back might attract small metal parts in bags or boxes

3. HexFlex Multitool

Called the HexFlex multitool, this little design fits 14 useful tools into its small frame and is equipped with a keyring attachment, allowing you to always keep it with you. It is made from stainless steel and is a season-appropriate multitool with a clever snowflake-shaped design.

Why is it noteworthy?

It comes with two Phillips screwdrivers, a flathead screwdriver, three hex drivers, a box-cutter, a bottle opener, and six different wrenches. Since it fastens to your keychain, you can carry it anywhere you go, allowing you to open stuff from bottles to boxes!

What we like

  • Available in a titanium variant as well
  • Comes equipped with 14 tools

What we dislike

4. M-20 Titanium Magnetic Screwdriver

This unique 9-in-1 magnetic screwdriver ensures that you always have the right tools in your pocket, allowing you to fix things and do your magic wherever your skills are needed! The M-20 doesn’t really look like a screwdriver, in fact, it resembles a carrying case for screwdriver bits.

Why is it noteworthy?

The uniquely shaped multitool features slots for up to nine bits, and it holds them in place with the help of very strong magnets. This ensures that they don’t get loose, and prevents them from getting lost.

What we like

  • Built from titanium, which makes it lightweight yet durable
  • Offers you a firm and precise grip making it easy to handle

What we dislike

  • The screwdriver features a flat design which makes it an ergonomically different experience for inexperienced users

5. 8-in-1 EDC Scissors

Say hello to the 8-in-1 EDC Scissor which is perfect for indoor and outdoor culinary adventures. You can pull the scissors apart to form a set of knives! In fact, it even has a built-in bottle opener, nut cracker, can opener, and fire starter, forming one handy package that will come to your rescue in all kinds of situations.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59

Why is it noteworthy?

This pair of innovative scissors separate into individual halves, offering you two knives, and a large variety of multiools on demand. Once you put them back together, the scissors can cut through hard materials like cured meats too, while the serrated mid-section can be used to crack through walnuts.

What we like

  • Ideal for the kitchen, but also for outdoor cooking on a camping trip
  • Clever practical tool that has a whole gamut of cool features

What we dislike

  • Not something you can carry in your pocket

6. Precision Sakura Metal Puzzle

Give your brain a satisfying and amusing challenge with this beautiful all-metal puzzle! Called the Precision Metal Sakura Puzzle, this puzzle has the shape of Japan’s most iconic flowers, with pieces that look so similar, that you’ll be scratching your head about where to put them.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299

Why is it noteworthy?

Once this metal puzzle has been assembled it takes on the shape of Japan’s iconic sakura flowers. The puzzle is built from mirror-finish stainless steel with pieces that fit completely and seamlessly together, this puts your brain to the test, allowing you to challenge yourself. And since it has a compact no-frills design, you can carry it anywhere with you, letting you play with your mind whenever you’re bored.

What we like

  • You can build a puzzle, enjoy a fun game, and carry it with you wherever you go, owing to its lightweight form

What we dislike

  • The puzzle could be difficult to put together, which may not be preferred by users who are seeking a relaxing experience

7. AirTag Carabiners

These innovative, sleek, and quite good-looking AirTag Carabiners give a refreshing makeover to your boring old metal carabiners. Say good to your standard carabiners and, meet these precision-made metallic carabiners! They have a lightweight, non-bulky form that makes them easy to carry, and even easier to use.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119

Why is it noteworthy?

They have been meticulously handcrafted to offer you premium durability. These unique carabiners aren’t just melted metal casings, in fact, each piece is unlike any other as manufacturing conditions can affect the final design.

What we like

  • The carabiners are crafted by hand from high-quality metal

What we dislike

  • Attaching or detaching the AirTag isn’t very user-friendly, or easily accessible, and can be inconvenient

8. M-stand

Dubbed the M-stand, this compact and lightweight tool is not only powerful but also pretty versatile. It quite smartly balances tactical and casual roles, as it works as a self-defense tool and a smartphone stand. It can convert from one to another within 10 seconds. It is a durable tool that will fit snugly in your pocket.

Why is it noteworthy?

The M-stand is made from durable titanium, and it doubles up as multiple tools such as a rope cutter, two wrenches, a bottle opener, a pry tool, a fire starter, and a tritium holder. All these handy tools have been fitted into a compact and sleek body.

What we like

  • The multitool features two-finger grips on either side letting you easily prop up your phone or tablet, providing you with a multitool that works well indoors and outdoors

What we dislike

  • The sharp edge of the design is always exposed and outside and could lead to accidental harm if you’re not careful

9. The Dango M1 Lite Cardholder Wallet

The Dango M1 Lite cardholder wallet is a sleek and minimalist wallet that keeps all your important essentials neat, tidy, organized, and easily accessible. The wallet has a barely-there form but a ton of capacity to store your necessary items.

Why is it noteworthy?

The wallet features CNC-machined aerospace 6061-grade aluminum and is quite lightweight and durable. It also features a Cerakote finish that provides it with an extra layer of protection.

What we like

  • Can carry 10-13 cards, equipped with a lot of storage
  • Features a Dango RFID Secrued Card, keeping your sensitive information safe and secure

What we dislike

  • Basic + unassuming aesthetics

10. AirTag Holder

Meet this innovative  AirTag Holder by Atech! It is crafted from solid stainless steel and is a nifty little multitool that gives you seven diverse features in its compact design. It can hold your keys, dock your smartphone, open bottles, and maneuver hex bolds.

Why is it noteworthy?

The multitool is shaped like a carabiner, and it has an enclosure that allows you to dock a single AirTag, allowing you to track your EDC using your Apple devices. It has a hope on the top, that lets you secure a keychain to your AirTag Holder, letting you open screws and bottles.

What we like

  • The tracking device is held in place by two ABS plastics, which doesn’t cause any interference in its signal

What we dislike

  • Doesn’t let you control what angle your phone will be placed at. It depends on how slim your smartphone is, and whether you use a case for it or not

The post Top 10 Sleek & Minimal Multitools For Those Who Are Sick Of Bulky & Hefty Designs first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Pop Culture-Inspired LEGO Builds For You To Try At Home

If you are a lover of pop culture, and your personal space is adorned with Pokémon, Star Wars, Marvel, or Mario-themed products and devices, then, well you’re at the right spot. Because we’re gonna take it up a notch for you and introduce you to some pop-culture-based LEGO builds. We’ve curated some of our favorite pop culture LEGO builds for you to try building by yourself! From a LEGO version of the Brooklyn 99 show to LEGO variant of Harry Potter’s Sorting Hat – these LEGO builds are complete collector’s items for pop culture lovers.

1. LEGO Brooklyn 99

Brooklyn 99 is one of my favorite TV shows ever, and LEGO creator Ben Fankfauser immortalized it with this adorable build which encapsulates the entire 99th precinct, including all the rooms and characters from the show. The detailed set includes almost everything, ranging from the bullpen to the captain’s office, and the printer room as well! Integral and precise aspects of the precinct’s floor were recreated, and some secret details like Holt’s pet corgi Cheddar were added to the mix as well.

2. LEGO Sorting Hat

Harry Potter fans should rejoice because the LEGO Group recently unveiled the Sorting Hat! The Sorting Hat has unveiled a dedicated LEGO version, with a hidden sound box that will emit out loud randomized phrases in English, which we all are familiar with. It is 9.5 inches tall, and 7.5 diameters in length, and it can adorned on a stand that features Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw house symbols.

3. LEGO Seven Dwarf’s Cottage

Meet this adorable LEGO version of the Seven Dwarf’s Cottage from the iconic Disney animation – the Snow White movie. This lavish build is made of 2228 pieces, and 10 mini figurines. It is intriguingly and precisely detailed to bring to mind all the interesting and memorable aspects of the tale. The build also comes along with Snow White’s glass coffin, the Evil Queen with the forbidden red apple, the Seven Dwarfs, and the Prince.

4. The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull

The LEGO® Jurassic World Dinosaur Fossils: T. rex Skull (76964) is one of the first Jurassic World sets intended for museum-like display. It is a 577-piece set that includes a T. Rex skull with an opening jaw, and a stand to proudly display it. The build also includes an info plaque, an amber piece at the back, and a fossilized footprint.

5. LEGO Miller’s Planet Scene

LEGO builder Minibrick Productions has recreated the iconic Miller’s Planet scene from the iconic Interstellar movie with this little LEGO-based build that features the ranger aircraft, astronauts Cooper and Brad, and the shapeshifting robots TARS and CASE. The two robots are equipped with repositionable arms that allow them to walk like humans, while Hathaway and McConaughey wear their space suits.

6. LEGO R2D2

To commemorate the 25th anniversary of Star Wars, LEGO has launched a 1050-brick version of R2D2. R2-D2 is the iconic droid in the multiple Star Wars adventures, who was loved by everyone! He is making a fascinating return in his brick-built form, in a compact and smaller form than the 2214-brick version 3 years ago. It is intended for younger galactic lovers aged 9 and above.

7. LEGO The Great British Bake Off

The Great British Bake Off is now available in a LEGO version! The LEGO Great British Bake Off is equipped with an impressive amount of detail. It recreates almost every aspect and element of the show, down to the tiniest and minute details. It features six decked-out participant islands littered with utensils, a sink, burners, a KitchenAid mixer, and an oven at the bottom. The backdrop is adorned with signature string lights, Union Jack flags, and a kitchen pantry.

8. LEGO Avengers Tower

This impressive LEGO set measures 35.5 inches tall, and it was created as a part of the 60th anniversary of the Avengers. It is supposed to be one of the tallest sets when put together! As you look at it, you’ll notice the Quinjet, Leviathan, and two Chitauri flyers from the 2012 Avengers Assemble. The interior of the set features scenes from the Infinity Sage, Age of Ultron party, and Endgame.

9. LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant

LEGO collabs with Mario in the form of this LEGO Super Mario Piranha Plant. The build is made up of 540 pieces, and when you put it together you get a sharp-toothed Piranha Plant! The build commemorates this little ‘villain’ from the game, and it is also camera-ready letting you show off that you’ve completed the masterpiece. It features the spiky leaves, the polka-dot head, and the green pipe from which it grows.

10. LEGO Quidditch Trunk

Meet the LEGO Quidditch Trunk! It may not be LEGO’s most complex or difficult Harry Potter build, but it is quite entertaining and interactive. It is a 599-brick build and is equipped with a comprehensive Quidditch setup that includes brooms, hoops, players, and a launcher that lets you shoot disc-shaped quaffles through the hoops.

The post Top 10 Pop Culture-Inspired LEGO Builds For You To Try At Home first appeared on Yanko Design.