Tag Archives: Product Design

Top 10 Innovative Stationery Designs You Need To Add To Your Desk In 2024

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What really makes a desk stand out to me is the collection of stationery items placed on top of it (and also the manner in which they are placed). The true value and efficiency of your desk lie in the smart assortment of designs you adorn it with – these are after all the objects that are gonna help you get through your workday, and directly or indirectly affect your productivity. It’s imperative to have a collection that really lets you work easily, efficiently, and effectively. And, we’ve curated a collection of innovative and nifty stationery designs that you must own! From an everlasting all-metal pencil to an eerie desk pen holder – these are the modern stationery designs you need to meet your modern stationery needs.

1. The Note

Dubbed the Note, this compact desk whiteboard enables you to take down notes with complete efficiency. The Note isn’t your everyday ordinary note taker, but it also has a few exciting tricks up its sleeve!

Why is it noteworthy?

This “whiteboard” twists or flips over, giving you twice the space to write down your notes. One side features a dotted grid surface to help with diagrams, while the other side is plain, or they both can have the same designs as well. You can also place sticky notes on it.

What we like

  • Equipped with a multi-purpose vertical screen that you can use to view the time, calendar, and appointments

What we dislike

  • The screen doesn’t support and show videos, a function that may be important in some people’s fields of work

2. Everlasting Metal Pencil

Dubbed the Everlasting Metal Pencil, this Wacom-like style has a tip that doesn’t need any replacing or sharpening. The innovative pencil allows you to focus on the creative process entirely.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.95

Why is it noteworthy?

The octagonal shaft is made of aluminum and houses a special alloy core. Knowing that, you might think that all it will do is leave heavy grooves on your paper, but your mind might be blown away when it draws like a real pencil without seeing the tip wear down even after dozens of marks.

What we like

  • It has a metal core instead of clay or charcoal, so it wears down slowly, and may actually outlive you

What we dislike

  • The pencil doesn’t smudge or smear like normal graphite, which could be a disadvantage for those who use smudging techniques

3. Grovemade’s Hardwood Cups and Planters

Grovemade’s collection of cups, planters, and dishes is crafted from solid maple or walnut. The containers are functional and efficient while also being extremely good-looking. The containers are made the hard old school way in Grovemade’s Portland OR factory.

Why is it noteworthy?

The attractive and functional pieces are hand-sanded and finished using a clear vegetable-based oil which accentuates the natural warmth, and sheer beauty of the elegant wood. The entire collection includes cups, dishes, and planters in a bunch of different wood. The tall containers are excellent for storing your pencils, pens, scissors, and markers.

What we like

  • Available in various metal and material options so that you can pick and choose

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics are a bit unassuming and boring and could have been worked upon more

4. UFO Desk Pen Holder

Dubbed the UFO Desk Pen Holder, this unique pen holder is designed to hold your pen while suspending it in mid-air, giving the feeling that aliens are going to kidnap your pen! The pen stands completely straight and upright in the holder.

Why is it noteworthy?

The top of the pen holder looks exactly like your stereotypical alien spaceship in the shape of a flying saucer. You could place the USS Enterprise or a Star Destroyer, but the irregular shape would break apart the illusion, and take away from the eerier atmosphere of the design.

What we like

  • Adds a fun + functional element to your workdesk
  • The saucer also provides light, proving to be multifunctional

What we dislike

  • As a single pen holder, it takes up a lot of precious real estate on your desk

5. The KNOB.

Called the KNOB., this minimal and unique pen tray features soft rounded edges that provide your work desk with some personality and character. The tray is designed by Changho Lee and offers your desk a simple yet refreshing twist.

Why is it noteworthy?

The KNOB. pen tray is quite innovative as it is inspired by the knobs you find on a gas burner. The designer was influenced by the language of gas burner knobs, and replicated it in his tray, building a piece of stationery with interesting-looking knobs.

What we like

  • The knobs or multiport radar allow you to adjust the internal space of the pen tray, helping you store and place different kinds of stationery

What we dislike

  • Does not have a chance to accommodate unusually shaped objects, and isn’t a very large tray

6. The Gravity Pen

Dubbed the Gravity Pen, this unique pen puts the center of gravity closer to your fingers, making the pen quite easy to hold, and make agile strokes with. The pen ensures this by having a larger grip than the barrel, providing more area for a super comfy hold.

Why is it noteworthy?

The faceted form of that grip also makes it easier to grip the pen, allowing for a more stable grip as well. It’s the ultimate ergonomic pen design, thanks to a smart application of physics and minimalist design principles.

What we like

  • Ergonomic design that is easy to hold and use
  • Durable and lightweight body

What we dislike

  • Not available in different color options, hence there is a limited choice

7. Grovemade Note-Taking Kit

Called the Grovemade Note-Taking Kit, this product is designed to effortlessly and efficiently capture, process, and store your notes, creating a note-taking process that feels simple, free-flowing, and enjoyable.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Note-Taking Kit essentially consists of a refillable notepad with dot grid paper and a solid metal base, with a display rail to hold and accommodate your notes and devices, creating a vertical organizer that stores your notes until you need them and are ready to use them.

What we like

  • Provides a neat workdesk, that helps you complete the important tasks at hand

What we dislike

  • Occupies a substantial amount of real estate on your desk

8. Wipe

Called Wipe, this innovative whiteboard notebook is a pretty unique one, since it is equipped with its own erase allowing you to write erase and write over things again, and again.

Why is it noteworthy?

Wipe features a personal size that’s a bit smaller than A4 paper. It is a portable size, and you can write on it, take a photo that you could save or send to the cloud, erase it, and write again. It is a fast and simple product that doesn’t need any preparation.

What we like

  • Features a newly developed Mag Force system that merges magnets and rubber bands creating a handle that also functions as a pen holder

What we dislike

  • You will need to utilize a dry-erase or whiteboard pen instead of a permanent marker

9. ONEBOX

This woodworking wonder is called the ONEBOX, and it combines multiple different tools into an intriguing interlocking Jenga-like structure, using the same traditional mortise and tenon jointing technique seen for centuries in large-scale buildings in ancient times.

Why is it noteworthy?

When assembled, the ONEBOX looks just like any ordinary wooden box. Pull the pieces apart and you discover that each piece is, in fact, a stationery tool or fidget toy.

What we like

  • It is meticulously crafted from solid wood, with flawless mortise and tenon joints and built-in magnets

What we dislike

  • The aesthetics are a bit unassuming and boring

10. The Oakywood Wooden Cubic Pot

Designed to be a stylish and elegant addition to your workdesk, the Oakywood Wooden Cubic Pot can easily and efficiently store your stationery, or be used to pot some greenery. It features a cup holder to pot a mini-plant!

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique dual-purpose design of the pot makes it a functional and excellent addition to your desk space. It features a stainless-steel insert to protect the wood from moisture and dirt. The surface of the pot has been coated with eco-wax oil, making it smooth to the touch.

What we like

  • Sustainable + fashionable design
  • Minimal product with maximum functionality

What we dislike

  • The aesthetics are a bit simple and unassuming

The post Top 10 Innovative Stationery Designs You Need To Add To Your Desk In 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

A Furniture Subscription Model That Leads To A Path Toward Convenience And Sustainability

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In a world where the environmental impact of consumer choices is becoming increasingly critical, innovative solutions are emerging to address the challenges of over-consumption and waste. One such solution is the Koru WFH Furniture Subscription, a pioneering concept in the realm of home-office furniture that not only meets the needs of modern remote work but also champions the principles of a circular economy.

Designer: Studio Elk

As of 2020, the Environmental Protection Agency reported a staggering increase in the amount of furniture and furnishings being discarded, reaching a whopping 12 million tons. This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for sustainable alternatives in the furniture industry. Koru is a visionary response to the environmental challenges posed by the disposal of office furniture.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a monumental shift in work culture, giving rise to the widespread adoption of remote work. In this context, Studio Elk seized the opportunity to introduce a circular economy concept for home-office furniture through its subscription service. By leasing modular furniture to businesses instead of selling it outright, the studio has developed a sustainable approach to furnishing home offices.

Koru furniture isn’t just functional; it’s a harmonious blend of professional utility and aesthetic sensitivity to the home environment. Employees subscribing to the services gain the flexibility to configure their home office setups according to their unique needs, spatial constraints, and personal style. This design characteristic ensures that the furniture seamlessly integrates into the home while meeting the demands of a professional workspace.

https://www.behance.net/gallery/184030027/Koru-WFH-Furniture-Subscription/modules/1042109815This subscription model empowers businesses to choose from a variety of flexible monthly plans that can adapt to the evolving size and requirements of their teams. The service encompasses installation, repair, upgrades, and efficient collection when the furniture is no longer needed. This holistic approach eliminates the time and cost burdens typically associated with managing, moving, and storing furniture assets.

The durability of the Koru furniture is a key factor in its sustainability. Crafted from hard-wearing materials and finishes, the furniture is designed for longevity. Moreover, its easy disassembly and reassembly enable a closed-loop system, promoting reuse and enhancing repairability.

Koru’s innovative subscription concept facilitates a continuous revenue stream throughout the entire lifespan of its products. Operating on a Product-as-a-Service model, the company aligns profitability with product longevity. The longer the furniture remains in use, the more sustainable and profitable the model becomes.

Koru’s subscription concept and circular supply chain model provide a blueprint for furniture brands seeking to diversify and future-proof their business. By integrating environmental responsibility with business goals, Koru offers a pathway for brands to thrive while minimizing their environmental footprint. In essence, the Koru WFH Furniture Subscription is not just a service; it’s a sustainable business model that envisions a greener and more responsible future for the furniture industry.

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This Bizarre $5000 device gives ChatGPT a face that you can physically talk to

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Ever felt weird chatting with Siri or Google Assistant because you know for a fact that they don’t exist? Or even ChatGPT for that matter. The folks at Wehead have a solution. It isn’t a fairly remarkable one, or an affordable one either… but it aims to help humans anthropomorphize AI assistants, because there’s nothing Silicon Valley won’t try solving.

Designed to look like a cyborg bust that sits on your table, the Wehead is a GPT-powered AI assistant that has a face (or something that passes off as one). Multiple displays come together to create the Wehead’s face, which offers a variety of different avatars that you can chat with. The cameras built into the device help the AI ‘see’ you as it makes conversation, and the head moves too, tilting sideways, nodding up and down, and being able to look around. Despite all that advancement, the Wehead feels less like a head and more like a tech-driven caricature. The attempt to humanize AI almost feels like a parody as it exists miles away from the uncanny valley, even though it’s technically impressive on paper. Oh, and it also costs a whopping $5,000 of your American dollars. If you’re scared of a future where AI replaces humans, don’t worry… this one surely won’t.

Designer: Wehead

The Weahad takes a stab at technology’s age-old pursuit of creating ‘companionship’ through AI. It’s designed with an objective of being a friend you can talk to, and who can provide sage advice… although the idea of taking a split-screen body-less oracle head’s advice seriously feels equal parts dystopian and hilarious.

“Wehead GPT is embodied LLM that helps you with brainstorming, decision making and self-reflection. For thinking out loud. At home or office. Any time you need it. On any topic,” says the company behind the device. However, as noble (and honestly remarkable) as that problem statement is, the Wehead’s appearance is what holds it back. Besides, the use of the word ’embodied’ feels rich. You’re constantly reminded that you’re talking to a bunch of oddly angled screens that mimic the shape of a human head. Maybe Wehead should reach out to the folks behind Google’s Project Starline…

The announcement of the WeHead GPT Edition brought to mind the unforgettable moment when Tesla unveiled its humanoid robot. Except instead of a sleek, futuristic robot, we got a person in a spandex suit doing the robot dance. It was a masterstroke of trolling, reminding us all that sometimes, the future isn’t as polished as we imagine it to be.

Despite its dystopian vibe, you have to admit there’s something endearingly humorous about the WeHead. It’s like having a pet that doesn’t need feeding or walking, just a good, old-fashioned power outlet and perhaps an existential conversation about its purpose every now and then. It won’t judge you for wearing the same pajamas three days in a row or for talking to a head because, well, it’s a head.

And let’s face it, in a world where we’re increasingly glued to our screens, having a physical head to talk to might just be the quirky solution we didn’t know we needed… although might I remind you that you’ll still be glued to screens with the WeHead. It’s an attempt to bring back the art of conversation, albeit with a partner that’s more circuit board than flesh and blood. The WeHead doesn’t pretend to be your friend; it’s a reminder of the slightly off-kilter future we’re stepping into, one awkward interaction at a time.

So, if you’re longing for a taste of tomorrow, today, and you’ve got a sense of humor about the whole ‘AI taking over the world’ thing, the WeHead GPT Edition might just be for you. Just remember, it’s more than a conversation piece; it’s a conversational piece. Available soon to anyone looking to spice up their chats with a touch of the future’s peculiar flavor, and with 5 grand to spare. Besides, who knows, in a world gone mad, talking to a head might just be the sanest thing you do.

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Save Your Kitchen Space With The All-In-One Kitchen Aid That Replaces Other Kitchen Appliances

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In the ever-evolving world of kitchen appliances, the demand for efficiency, versatility, and compactness has led to the creation of innovative solutions. The Hybrid Kitchen Aid emerges as a groundbreaking product that not only boasts multiutility but excels in adaptability, storage efficiency, and economical use.

Designer: Rishikesh Sonawane

This kitchen aid redefines the concept of kitchen appliances by seamlessly integrating the functions of multiple devices into one compact and adaptable machine. Inspired by the classic French press, its design allows it to execute tasks equivalent to blending, grinding, and kneading, making it an all-in-one solution for various kitchen needs.

One of its distinguishing features is the inversion of the motor placement, a deviation from traditional food processors. This unique design contributes to the adaptability of the appliance. The sliding switch empowers the user to cut direct power, enhancing safety and control during use.

The telescopic arm, a key design element, controls the lid level and ensures the attachment reaches the bottom of any vessel placed. A lock mechanism secures the telescoping arm and lid at the desired level, providing stability and ease of use. The user-friendly design allows for easy adjustment by lifting the arm head to unlock its position.

Lack of storage is a very common concern, the Hybrid Kitchen Aid addresses this by presenting a minimal and robust design where every element serves multiple functions. The ability to disassemble and adjust the appliance not only aids in storage but also contributes to its economic viability.

The product’s unique design allows it to adapt to a variety of kitchenware, reducing the need for multiple appliances. This adaptability not only enhances productivity but also minimizes the cleaning time between tasks. The suction cups secure the product onto the kitchen counter, adding to its stability during operation.

Cleanability is a critical aspect of any kitchen appliance, I always have my mom complaining about certain products that are difficult to clean and how she despises them, the Hybrid Kitchen Aid excels in this regard. The dismantleable attachments are specifically designed for thorough cleaning, addressing concerns about food particles accumulating in hard-to-reach spaces. The yellow ring and blade module, with a ceramic bearing, ensure easy disassembly and efficient cleaning.

The user interface of the Hybrid Kitchen Aid is both intuitive and aesthetically pleasing. A user flow diagram guides the user through a start-to-finish process, employing color and brightness levels to highlight errors or selections. The regulator dial, also serving as an On/Off button, allows for easy control of RPM.

In addition to its functionality, the Hybrid Kitchen Aid stands out as a statement piece in the kitchen. Its elegant design and adaptability make it not only a powerful tool but also a visually appealing addition to any culinary space.

The Hybrid Kitchen Aid transcends the boundaries of conventional kitchen appliances. With its multiutility, adaptability, storage efficiency, and cleanability, it emerges as a revolutionary solution for individuals seeking a versatile and economical kitchen aid that performs optimally in day-to-day cooking tasks.

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Bauhutte’s special cabinet for storing game consoles, controllers, and titles will get the gamers highly organized

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Japanese gaming furniture brand, Bauhutte, basically functions out of there bases: comfort, comfort and comfort. What did I miss? Comfort, allowing gamers to add days and more days to their regular gaming routines. Then whether it’s the Electric Gaming Bed or the Gaming Sofa, everything out of this company’s warehouse is designed to make the gamers addicted and lazier for their liking.

While that’s that. There ought to be a solution that is less about comfort and more about convenience and organizing. Two aspects that are as far from gamers as life outside their consoles. So, Bauhutte has taken some time out from creating ultra-addictive furniture to make us languid, to launch a specially designed cabinet to store game consoles, title, and other items in one place.

Designer: Bauhutte

The table with open shelves looks to have been made using MDF board and is pretty similar to other stationary game console cabinets on the market. Two distinguishing factors: Bauhette’s dark color scheme and the open rack design. The primary layout without a backboard or door considers heat dissipation and ensures your valuable console is well-ventilated at all times.

Although it has a simple design that will never look out of place even if it’s installed in the living room, it is highly functional. Giving an open space for the game console to rest, the specially conceived cabinet for the gamers’ den, has a drawer to stack your titles, controllers, and other accessories that have grown through the years.

The cabinet organizes the gaming equipment neatly which would otherwise pile up on the side of your rig. A side hook has been installed on the cabinet for hanging headsets, etc. This keeps the headies in easy reach, so you can quickly pick them up whenever you want to use and then store it neatly after playing. But what really had the storage cabinet win my heart was its hidden cable box on the back and the ability to team up with an open rack for placing more than one game console. There is no word on the price or the global ability of the cabinet yet, but we are hopeful its coming soon!

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Discover Your Poetic Journey Through Time With Calen-bar

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In a world characterized by the ceaseless march of technology, the Calen-Bar emerges as a distinctive and poetic tribute to time, seamlessly blending aesthetics, mindfulness, and sustainability. This perpetual calendar transcends the conventional, inviting users into a realm where the manual meets the meaningful, where every little act becomes a marker of eternal days.

Designer: Yukimasa Hirota

Crafted with precision and an eye for detail, the Calen-Bar is more than a tool; it is an experience. The inclusion of a metal weight introduces a tactile elegance, grounding the calendar in substance and texture. As fingers delicately adjust the rubber band to align with the current date, a connection is forged with the tangible passage of time. This manual engagement elevates the daily routine of checking dates into a ritual of reflection, ensuring that each day is not just observed but remembered, retrospectively embraced, and seized.

Positioned thoughtfully at the right end of the material rotation, the day of the week becomes a subtle but integral part of Calen-Bar’s design. As the material gracefully turns, it serves as a visual reminder that time, like the calendar itself, is in perpetual motion. This dynamic element adds a layer of continuity, urging users to appreciate the cyclical nature of days and the interconnected dance of weeks and months.

In a society racing against the clock, the Calen-Bar offers a respite from the relentless pace of technology. It is not a mere tool for making remarks or planning; rather, it is a sanctuary of poetic and aesthetic value. By embracing the manual nature of this calendar, users are prompted to engage in the deliberate act of adjusting dates, fostering a connection with time that transcends the digital coldness of screens and alarms.

Beyond its aesthetic charm, the Calen-Bar boasts a commendable sustainable aspect in its design. In a world inundated with disposable calendars, this perpetual masterpiece breaks the cycle. By omitting the mention of the year, it becomes a timeless companion, allowing users to reuse it year after year. The absence of a predefined year, while potentially leaving room for miscalculations, is a deliberate compromise in the pursuit of sustainability. In an age where ecological considerations are paramount, the Calen-Bar offers a meaningful alternative, prompting users to embrace the beauty of imperfection and intentional living.

While the manual adjustment may invite occasional errors, the Calen-Bar gracefully acknowledges the digital age, leaving room for users to cross-verify dates with their devices. This harmonious integration of analog charm and digital precision ensures that the Calen-Bar is not just a relic of the past but a versatile companion for the present and future.

In essence, the Calen-Bar is a testament to the enduring allure of simplicity, mindfulness, and sustainability. As we navigate the fast-paced currents of modern life, this perpetual calendar stands as a reminder to savor the little moments, to mark the eternal days not just in our lives but in the products that accompany us on this journey. It is a celebration of time, a fusion of elegance and purpose that invites us to comprehend the lost moments, appreciate the present, and embrace the time that is yet to come.

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A Unique Pet Toy Inspired By Nature To Keep Your Pets Engaged

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Pet toys come in various shapes and sizes, but The Triangle Toy stands out as a unique creation that not only entertains your furry friends but also doubles as a work of art. This innovative pet toy is not just about play; it’s a visual experience inspired by the beauty of nature.

Designers: Second White, Ethan J Choi, Jihun Yoo, DK (Dukkeun An), Junha Kam, Ikhyeon Kim<, Maini Kwon yanko design images to size – Triangle_pet_toy_02

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Triangle’s design is a testament to the creativity that can be infused into pet products. The triangular shape serves as a canvas for the motifs of clouds, mountains, and the sun. The towering mountains are represented by the overall triangular structure, while the rolling ball symbolizes the gentle flow of clouds. The transparent ball, a central element of the toy, represents the shining sun. Together, these elements create a harmonious scene reminiscent of a sunrise or sunset over a cloud-covered mountain.

The design language of Triangle is a careful blend of curved and angular lines. This combination imparts a sense of softness and brilliance to the toy, making it visually appealing. Crafted from high-quality materials and featuring a seamless harmony between its components, Triangle transcends the typical notion of a pet toy, resembling more of an objet d’art that seamlessly integrates into any space.

What sets Triangle apart is its interactive nature. The toy is designed to maintain your pet’s continuous interest through an ingenious treat-dispensing mechanism. By placing treats inside the transparent ball, your pet is enticed to engage with the toy. When the cloud-shaped plate is touched, the ball rolls along rails, dispensing treats as it moves. This not only provides mental stimulation but also turns playtime into a rewarding experience for your furry companion.

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Adding to its innovative features, Triangle allows for difficulty adjustment. The three holes in the transparent ball can be resized by turning its top part. This feature enables pet owners to customize the level of challenge, ensuring that the toy remains engaging for pets of varying activity levels. It’s a thoughtful addition that caters to the diverse needs of pets, keeping them entertained and mentally stimulated.

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Practicality meets design in Triangle, as it is not only an engaging toy but also easy to maintain. All parts, including the transparent ball, are detachable, allowing for convenient cleaning. This feature ensures that Triangle remains a hygienic and safe plaything for your pet. The ease of disassembly and reassembly makes the cleaning process a breeze, enhancing the overall user experience.

At its core, Triangle is a simple yet ingenious mechanism toy that harnesses the beauty of nature. The ball within the toy moves by tilting around a central axis based on the principles of gravity. This design, inspired by the natural world, incorporates inclined surfaces and curved shapes. By subtly tilting the toy, users can manipulate the ball, creating an interactive and enjoyable experience for both pets and their owners.

In conclusion, Triangle is more than just a pet toy; it’s a thoughtful creation that brings together design, functionality, and the essence of nature. Its ability to engage pets, adjustable difficulty levels, and easy maintenance make it a standout product in the world of pet accessories. Triangle not only adds joy to your pet’s playtime but also elevates your living space with its aesthetic appeal—a true testament to the potential for creativity in the world of pet products.

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A Plant Companion That Moves With The Sun Fitting Perfectly Into The Korean Culture

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In a world where the sun plays a significant role in shaping preferences for living spaces, a unique product has emerged to bridge the gap between lifestyle and the desire for a sun-soaked environment. The innovative SPOT, a pet plant inspired by the beloved Toy Story, brings a touch of whimsy and practicality to the lives of those who are away from home during the day.

Designer: Dami Seo

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Koreans have a cultural inclination towards south-facing directions for their homes, favoring abundant sunlight throughout the day. However, modern lifestyles often lead people away from home during peak daylight hours, creating a paradox between their preference for sunlit spaces and their absence during the sunniest times.

Drawing inspiration from Toy Story, SPOT takes on a personality of its own when the owner is away. Just like Woody and his adventures, SPOT enjoys the warm sunlight in the south-facing direction, making the most of the daylight hours that the owner might miss.

The creators of SPOT have ingeniously crafted its form based on Woody’s rhythmic hat line, adding an extra layer of charm and nostalgia for fans of the iconic movie series. This attention to detail enhances the emotional connection users may feel with their sun-loving companion.

SPOT’s design mimics a sunflower’s ability to move towards the sun. Equipped with sensors, SPOT can adjust its position to capture the optimal amount of sunlight, ensuring that users can enjoy the warmth without the need to move the plant manually. This dynamic feature aligns with the varying sunlight patterns throughout the day.

For users returning home, SPOT adds an element of surprise and delight. By detecting the SPOT’s location, users can playfully interact with their sun-loving companion, creating a unique and entertaining experience. The wheels at the bottom of the product enable SPOT to move towards the sunlight source, making it a dynamic and engaging addition to any home.

SPOT’s ability to move is not only entertaining but also practical. Equipped with sensors on both sides, SPOT can navigate around objects in the house, ensuring a seamless and safe journey towards the sunlight. The autonomy of movement enhances user convenience, aligning with the modern desire for smart and responsive home devices.

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To keep SPOT energized and ready for its sun-seeking adventures, a user-friendly charging unit is provided. SPOT can effortlessly navigate to the charging station, making the recharging process a hassle-free experience. Additionally, SPOT’s easy-to-clean and disassemble design ensures that maintenance is a breeze.

SPOT not only adds a touch of magic inspired by Toy Story to your home but also addresses the practical challenge of aligning sunlight preferences with a dynamic lifestyle. With its adaptability, autonomy, and entertaining features, SPOT is more than just a pet plant; it’s a delightful companion that brings joy and sunshine into the lives of its users.

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Best of Conceptual Design – Yanko Design Awards 2023

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At YD, we live by the fundamental belief that there’s nothing more powerful than an idea. Concepts have always enthralled us, because they represent what our future could look like, and that’s where designers come in with their unique skill – imagining this conceptual alternate reality on behalf of all of us. As we come to a grand close to 2023, we look back at some of the concepts that we (and you, surely) loved. These concepts represent some of the most intriguing ideas and visions of the year, like imagining what a proper PlayStation Portable in the modern age would look like, or even the Gen-2 CyberTruck for instance. We’re even crowning one of these concepts as our “Best Concept Design of 2023” for its sheer vision, attention to detail, and the fact that it just ever so slightly made us want to throw money at our screens. Want to know what it was? Want to also see the other concepts that made it to this ‘Best of’ list? Scroll down to find out!

1. MOI3D Gaming Console by Vadim Danilkov (Best Concept Design of 2023)

We loved this console for a few reasons. Aside from the fact that it’s detailed down to the last screw and capacitor (check the video), it’s also a tsunami of absolute nostalgia. The MOI3D is a handheld console concept that’s designed to run any PlayStation CD right back to the 1994 PS One. It comes with all the bells and whistles, starting from a screen on the front and a CD-reader on the bottom to action buttons (including L1/L2 and R1/R2), HDMI out, USB-C charging, a CD tray button, and front-firing speakers. Notably, it lacks a 3.5mm audio jack but more than makes up for it with backward compatibility with games from as long as 30 years ago when the PlayStation first debuted!

Why it’s noteworthy?

The Best Design title doesn’t come easy. We rate our designs on their brief, their output, the level of detail, their originality, and their overall appeal and the MOI3D smashed it out of the park on all levels. The amount of detail is dizzying, and the prospect of being able to play all your favorite PS games on one handheld console is even more exciting!

2. Tesla Cybertruck 2.0 by Dejan Hristov

As the Cybertruck FINALLY begins delivering to customers who first ordered it back in 2019 (if they were ready to pay that tear-jerking new price), we decided it was time to plan for the next big thing. Dejan Hristov’s Cybertruck 2.0 really caught our fancy for its unique design. It was eye-catching and iconic without being polarizing, and still somehow stuck to the Cybertruck’s design language without looking like it was made using origami. The gentle curves do a wonderful job of reflecting light and the world around it, creating the truck’s overall appeal, and if that rear truck bed wasn’t enough storage, this one also sports a frunk that opens like a drawer cabinet!

Why is it noteworthy?

Hristov’s design paints an arguably less polarizing picture of the Cybertruck but retains its overall soul. When Musk made a point that all pickup trucks looked the same, he wasn’t wrong. Hristov carries that torch but creates an EV that looks different without looking ugly.

03. Apple iPhone Ultra by Jimmy Huynh

We all thought Apple would drop an iPhone Ultra this year, but the company delivered something just as good – an iPhone Pro series made from titanium, with USB-C, and an Action button. Sure, it doesn’t look as captivating as this particular concept by Jimmy Huynh, but we love it all the same. As far as this iPhone Ultra concept goes, Huynh retained the Watch Ultra’s aesthetic beautifully, with a gorgeous crown, orange action button, and that nude titanium finish that culminates in those speaker grills at the bottom. Sure, some might find that odd bump on the side unappealing, but we appreciate anything we can rest our fingers against as we hold this phone up.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s been a hot minute since Apple announced any new iPhone range. The Watch got an Ultra debut last year, but Apple’s stuck to the iPhone, SE, and Pro range for years now. Although some say there wouldn’t be much difference between the Pro and the Ultra, we disagree. The Ultra isn’t a creative-aligned iPhone. It’s an iPhone that’s built like a brick. Incredible sturdiness, game-changing resilience, and the kind of software security that would make it perfect for government officials (perhaps even the ones in the CCP)!

04. Nothing Power Bank by Subhav Menon Srivastava

Last year Nothing created waves with its first transparent-bodied smartphone, and while we got the Nothing Phone (2) this year, we were hoping for a few phone-adjacent accessories. A Nothing Power Bank, for example. This transparent portable charger from the mind of Subhav Menon Srivastava has us drooling because of how gorgeous it looks. While most power banks have nothing more than an Li-ion battery and a PCB, Srivastava makes things interesting with printed elements on the outer glass, and an LED display that shows the battery percentage of the power bank. You’ve also got a whopping 10,000 mAh battery on the inside, and a few LED lights that bring the power bank to life when plugged in.

Why is it noteworthy?

Our readers certainly loved the Nothing Power Bank, with 60,000 views on the concept. That pretty much affirms that there’s public demand for the Nothing Power Bank, so if Carl Pei is reading this…

05. Apple Mac Nano by Le KBM

Sometime in 2022 (or probably earlier) a patent surfaced for an Apple keyboard with its own Mac computer built into it. Given that Apple was developing its own silicone line, at the time this made absolute sense. Fit an entire Mac into a keyboard and you had yourself a makeshift Mac Mini with you! Plug a display in and you were ready to go (maybe you’d need a trackpad or mouse too, but you get my drift). Designer Le KBM decided to build out this vision, creating the Mac Nano concept. The concept features a rejuvenated Magic Keyboard with a touchbar on top and an M-series chip inside, giving it laptop-worthy computing power in the format of a keyboard. Hook an iPad or an iPhone to it and you have yourself a renegade Mac with a touchscreen. What’s not to love?!

Why is it noteworthy?

Conceptually, the Mac Nano seems somewhat strange but then again, the Mac Mini was an odd concept too. Why create a portable Mac when the MacBook Pro was already a thing? Well, the Mac Mini sort of found its own place in the Apple ecosystem, and for people looking for an ‘Air’ version of that, the Mac Nano is the perfect choice! Plus, we haven’t seen a ‘nano’ Apple product in a while!

06. PocketMan P1 Handheld Console by Grzegorz Rozwadowski (Twig Studio)

The PocketMan P1, inspired by Teenage Engineering’s raw, industrial design, boasts a sleek metal-first aesthetic with exposed screws. It features essential controls like a D-pad, action buttons, multiple joysticks, and four shoulder buttons. It also offers a USB-C port, a 3.5mm aux jack, and card readers on both sides for game loading. The black-and-white screen gives it a retro touch, possibly with an option for a color display. While currently a concept, the P1 showcases minimalist metallic design, rejecting the need for excessive ergonomics and RGB lighting in gaming hardware.

Why is it noteworthy?

Aside from that nostalgic handheld form factor, there’s a lot to be appreciated about how wonderfully cyberpunk the PocketManP1 looks. When your eyes aren’t immersed in the game, they’ll probably be admiring every inch of the P1’s metallic design while your hands familiarize themselves with every single button, trigger, and joystick.

07. Note Digital+Analog Desk Accessory by Harshit Sahu

Part digital clock/calendar, part whiteboard, and part pinboard, this Note-taking desk accessory has the best of all worlds. It’s essentially a compact whiteboard that can flip over, doubling your writing space. One side features a dotted grid for diagrams, while the other can be plain or carry the same design. Sticky notes can also find their place on this versatile board. What sets Note apart is the addition of a multi-purpose vertical screen on the left side, displaying the time, calendar, and synced appointments from your phone. It even offers functions like a timer, world clock, and music player.

Why is it noteworthy?

“Paper can be simple, and apps can be quick, but not everyone needs all the commitment that these two different note-taking methods sometimes require,” says our Co-Editor-in-Chief JC Torres. This piece of digital stationery may not be a revolutionary device, but its creative integration of analog and digital concepts makes it a focused and efficient tool for specific needs. It simplifies your workflow without overwhelming you with unnecessary features, ensuring that your productivity remains the top priority.

08. Sony Playstation XPERIA by Santosh Palaniappan

This one’s a classic case of “what could have been”. Designed by Santosh Palaniappan, the PlayStation XPERIA is the perfect hybrid between a smartphone and a gaming device, combining the company’s two successful product lines. Featuring a sliding display that reveals gaming controls underneath, along with a triple-camera setup, it offers versatility beyond gaming. Messaging, internet browsing, selfies, movie watching, and social media game streaming become seamless possibilities. The PlayStation Xperia strikes a balance between smartphone and gaming device aesthetics, combining the functionality of a smartphone with the visual appeal of the PS5. Its white and black design with textured grips and the iconic PlayStation symbol microtexture on the rear exudes elegance. Front-facing speakers enhance the media and gaming experience, and sliding the screen transforms it into a handheld console.

Why is it noteworthy?

With a focus on both gaming and smartphone capabilities, the PlayStation Xperia concept offers a promising vision for Sony’s future product lineup, blending the best of both worlds for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. It doesn’t compromise on anything a gamer would want in their phone or their handheld console, and let’s be absolutely honest, it looks positively drool-worthy!

09. Ford Mini Bronco by Naoto Kobayashi

Ever seen an off-roader coupe? Well, feast your eyes on the Ford Mini Bronco, a two-door off-roader that we absolutely wish was real. Crafted by designer Naoto Kobayashi, the Ford Mini Bronco boasts a unique design with distinctive pixel-inspired headlights in the front and dynamic taillights at the rear. It’s ideal for a group of two or three adventurers looking to hit the off-road and embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle. This compact EV offers SUV-like excitement without the fuel consumption of larger Ford vehicles. However, it’s important to note that the Ford Mini Bronco is currently just a concept, a vision of what the future of transportation could hold. We can only hope that one day, this remarkable concept will become a reality.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Mini Bronco is a small-format-large-ambitions car that really doesn’t compromise on space or features. The lack of two extra passenger seats means the Mini Bronco has a spacious rear, perfect for storing your outdoor gear. Its short wheelbase and minimal overhangs (on the front and rear) promise enhanced off-road capabilities, and Kobayashi even managed to fit a large-size tent on the top that people can sleep in!

10. Google G Spot Tracking Device by Obi Fidler

Google will help you search for a lot of things, but this is a first! Meet the G Spot, an audacious concept from the mind of Obi Fidler that doubles as Google’s first-ever tracking device. The G Spot is a sleek and compact GPS smart tracker that takes inspiration from Apple’s popular AirTag. This innovative device boasts a conveniently small form factor, making it a breeze to carry around discreetly. What sets it apart is its seamless integration with Google’s robust ecosystem, allowing you to effortlessly track its whereabouts through the Find My Device and Google Maps services… and obviously that name, which I will never tire of saying!

Why is it noteworthy?

This one makes the list just for how much of a belly laugh it gave us as we first saw it online. The entire project is an absolute riot, making fun of what could be Google’s tracking device. Hilariously named the G Spot, this tracking device comes equipped with a tensor chip and a whole lot of double entendres!

The post Best of Conceptual Design – Yanko Design Awards 2023 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Google Chrome’s T-Rex Offline Game gets immortalized in this adorable LEGO diorama

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Back when Google was still a fun company (when Android had easter eggs, and when the company cracked April Fools jokes ever year), users who browsed the web on Google Chrome noticed a nifty hidden gem within the browser’s error message. When the browser couldn’t connect to the internet, it would display a “You are offline” message with a pixelated dinosaur standing amidst desert terrain. Press a key and it would trigger Chrome’s hidden game – an infinite side-scrolling adventure where you would have to get the dinosaur to dodge obstacles by either jumping over them or ducking under them. The game almost instantly became a crowd favorite, allowing people to keep themselves entertained even when offline.

LEGO builder Brick Dangerous decided to give this game the respect it truly deserves by turning it into a LEGO brick set. Comprising 449 pieces (although you could just as easily extend the diorama), the LEGO Ideas submission features the grey dinosaur against its familiar white background, accompanied by a cloud and two cacti.

Designer: Brick Dangerous

The build is pretty straightforward, with a lot of scope for adjustment or even upgrading to extend the scene sideways. It relies on 449 bricks in its current avatar, with no fixed orientation. You can choose to have the T-Rex on land or jumping in air. Want to make a nice stop-motion, that works too!

“This game is very fun, millions of people play it every time there are connection problems, something simple, but addictive,” says the designer, Brick Dangerous. “Luckily this T-Rex did not become extinct with the meteorite!”

This isn’t Brick Dangerous’ first rodeo on the LEGO Ideas forum. The designer has submitted multiple projects on the forum, and two of our favorites, the vintage telephone and the LEGO hourglass, even reached the coveted 10,000 vote mark. However, for reasons undisclosed, LEGO’s internal review team didn’t convert them into retail sets. This T-Rex build looks promising, though… it’s crossed the 1,500 mark and has another 570 days before its deadline ends. Head to the LEGO Ideas forum to vote for this dino before it goes extinct!

The post Google Chrome’s T-Rex Offline Game gets immortalized in this adorable LEGO diorama first appeared on Yanko Design.