Plywood desk concepts use waves to create easy-access storage spaces

Just because a design is minimalist doesn’t mean it has to be featureless. Part of the challenge of this design style is to deliver the same functionality that more complicated products offer in simpler ways. A desk, for example, would normally have drawers and shelves to put things in, but drawers often introduce mechanisms that wear down over time, and they often block their contents from view, forcing the person to remember what’s inside or waste time going through each drawer in search for an item. Aalto, which means “wave” in Finnish, removes the blinders and designs an open storage system that uses no extra parts, just the table’s body itself.

Designer: Liam de la Bedoyere

Common desk drawers use a sliding mechanism to move a box in and out of the table. Regardless of the design of the slider, it will eventually fall victim to wear and tear, making it less useful and more stressful. Desks with “open” shelves instead of drawers do remove that variable but doesn’t make it easy to see what’s inside unless everything is at the front or you stoop to take a peek inside.

The Aalto design concept uses a series of undulating forms that create nooks that can become storage spaces. Thanks to the glass (or any transparent material) tabletop, you can immediately see what’s inside, ready to be taken out when you need it. Conversely, you can also easily see which compartments are still unoccupied in case you need an empty space.

The waves can come in different sizes, which makes room for different kinds of stationery and tools as well, like a laptop in the larger space or pens for the smaller ones. What makes the design even more interesting is that it doesn’t use any extra pieces other than the tabletop. It’s a single unbroken form, though sheets of plywood are indeed joined together to create the semblance of a flowing shape. Regardless, there are no moving parts that will break down or extra parts that can get lost. It is minimalism at its finest.

Another version of the Aalto design uses shorter and more uniform waves to address concerns about the troughs hitting people’s knees and legs. That said, it also reduces the flexibility of those spaces to hold objects of any size, but that also becomes a sort of enforced organization system to keep the desk tidy. In exchange, this Aalto variant has a small shelf off to the side, for holding smaller items like books or even a vase. It does have to switch to a polycarbonate material for the tabletop in order to support that bending shape.

The post Plywood desk concepts use waves to create easy-access storage spaces first appeared on Yanko Design.

Motorola Edge 50 Neo leak shows off Pantone colors and minimalist design

Smartphone brands have thankfully become more conscious of the design of their phones, or at the very least are now talking more about that aspect of the product. Not everyone gets it right, of course, especially if you look at some of the ginormous camera designs on phones these days. Once in a while, though, you come across a design that still delivers the promise of powerful cameras without being as in your face as their other kin. This year, Motorola’s Edge 50 series seems to have hit the target with a smooth and elegant minimalist design, as shown by leaked images of the upcoming Motorola Edge 50 Neo. Strangely enough, it calls to mind a design that we actually liked and wished stuck around longer.

Designer: Motorola (via Evan Blass/evleaks)

In 2022, we reviewed the OPPO Find X5 Pro which seemed to defy convention with a rear design that ditched the usual metal island that surrounded smartphone cameras. Instead, it used a gentler, curving slope that looked distinctive, less noisy, and more elegant, but it sadly didn’t last more than that year’s OPPO flagship. Whether by coincidence or by design (pardon the pun), it’s like that aesthetic has suddenly resurfaced where we least expect it.

A serving of official-looking renders reveals the design of the Motorola Edge 50 Neo or at least its back, and we can’t help but get a sense of deja vu. Not that we’re complaining, since it’s quite a striking and unusual appearance, and it’s not even limited to this particular model. All members of the 2024 Edge 50 family bear this same design language, including the Motorola Edge 50 Fusion with only two cameras on its back.

Also like its other siblings, the Edge 50 Neo is Pantone-certified, a mark it bears proudly as well. This particular model will come in four color options: Grisaille (Gray), Nautical Blue, Poinciana (Red), and Latte (Beige). The images also suggest that the phones will bear the same textured material on their back, which not only gives them a luxurious feel but also improves their grip.

Other than these visual details, however, not much is known about the Motorola Edge 50 Neo just yet. It will have three cameras, and it might follow in the footsteps of the base Edge 50 model with a 50MP main camera, a 10MP 3x optical zoom telephoto camera, and a 13MP ultra-wide shooter. But as beautiful as this phone looks, consumers might end up a little bit confused as there will be not only two, not even three but four Motorola Edge 50 models to choose from when the “Neo” finally launches.

The post Motorola Edge 50 Neo leak shows off Pantone colors and minimalist design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Concrete house lets you live in the middle of the forest

Having lived in a city all my life, I’m used to waking up in the morning, looking out the window, and seeing nothing but buildings. So of course it’s my dream that one day, I’d be able to live in a place where I am surrounded by nature but still have the conveniences of “civilization”. We’re seeing a lot of house concepts right now where all you need to do is step out of your front door or sometimes even just look out your window and you’re one with nature.

Designer: Pérez Palacios Arquitectos Asociados

One such house is Copas, a contemporary and minimalist concrete house located in the forests of Valle de Brava in Mexico so you get the best view of nature from your window and especially from the rooftop terrace, where you feel like you’re part of the forest. The colors of the house are similar to the tree trunks and rock formations that surround it. The overall design of the house gives you the impression like you’re climbing a mountain.

The private bedrooms on the lower level has glazing that frames the forest while the kitchen, dining room, and the lounge space also give a beautiful view of the surrounding woodlands. The terrace on the roof extends towards the trees while the swimming pool on the higher volume is the perfect way to cap off a relaxing day in your abode.

The two-volume house is integrated into the slope so there’s not much excavation that will disturb the surroundings. The house has also different finishes to complement the concrete look, including wood furniture, natural rugs and fabrics so you get an even cozier feeling. This is such an interesting house to live in especially if you’re sick and tired of the concrete jungle.

The post Concrete house lets you live in the middle of the forest first appeared on Yanko Design.

Modular office furniture brings the freedom and flexibility of LEGO to the workplace

Gone are the days of uniform-looking office cubicles that feel designed to suck the soul out of employees. Although they have their own downsides, the so-called “open floor plans” bring a bit of customization to office spaces, letting people’s and companies’ characters shine. Of course, office space is never infinite, and workers have to make do with the sometimes cramped horizontal allowance they have. Maximizing every inch of that space requires not only being creative but also furniture that delivers the functionality that you need while being space-efficient as well. This office furniture collection offers exactly that with a modular system that you can mix and match to your needs, taking inspiration from one of the most popular modular designs in modern history: LEGO blocks.

Designer: Form Us With Love for String Furniture

OK, they might not connect to each other like LEGO bricks, which would be impractical and tedious to use anyway, but the way you can combine different “block” sizes in almost endless ways is reminiscent of the creative toy. There are six different sizes of components, ranging from cube storage to rectangular shelves, and you can arrange them in any way you see fit, as long as you have horizontal and vertical clearance. You can put them side by side like a long shelf, stack them on top of each other like a cabinet, in a straight line, or in an L-shaped corner configuration. Your creativity and space are the limits.

The pieces almost look like LEGO blocks, at least metal LEGO blocks. They are made from thin with a perforated grid pattern that is meant to give them an industrial aesthetic. Of course, these holes can serve functional purposes as well, allowing you to hang hooks, screw in handles, and maybe even decorate the surfaces with your personal photos and mementos. Presuming you or your company purchases different colored sets, you might even be able to mix up colors to add even more personality to your office space.

The concept of modular furniture is nothing new, but most of these designs tend to have a fixed appearance or mode of operation, allowing owners to only remove or add parts that are specifically designed for the system. With a minimalist design that adopts the simplest shapes of squares and rectangles, Center Center allows for maximum flexibility and, more importantly, encourages creativity and individuality that are easily lost in many work environments these days.

The post Modular office furniture brings the freedom and flexibility of LEGO to the workplace first appeared on Yanko Design.

Bent wooden stool requires no screws or hinges to assemble from flat packaging

Flat-packed furniture has become quite the sensation, satisfying both the need for easy-to-assemble mass-produced products as well as a craving for the trendy minimalist design. There are, however, certain limits to those designs, especially because of the need to be flat and tightly packed. Putting them together also sometimes requires a bit of patience and know-how, particularly when small parts and screws are involved. This stool concept design challenges those conventions, however, by using mechanisms that require no extra parts, no screws, and even no glue, yet still delivers a multifunctional piece of furniture that looks unique and distinctive, unlike most mass-produced flat-packed products.

Designer: Joao Teixeira

The easiest method to join two separate pieces after they have left the factory would be to either screw or glue them together. The former entails more complicated parts while the other often employs chemicals harmful to the environment. There are, however, techniques that simply use shapes and the force of physics, particularly gravity, to keep two parts together. The dovetail joint, which looks like two puzzle pieces getting wedged together, is one such mechanism, and it is the technique employed by this Flat Stool design.

That in itself is already impressive, but the stool’s real claim to fame is how its sides can curve and bend despite being flat-packed. You’d usually have to resort to tricks like hinges, which you have to screw, to change a wooden plank’s direction, but the Flat Stool uses a rather unconventional design to do the same. Specifically, it uses kerf bending on those bent areas to create a gentle curve that makes it look like the piece was shipped that way right from the start.

The effect is a stool whose sides bend down and inward, attaching to the middle of the slanted legs that also have a kerf bend to them. This creates a loop on both sides, an empty space that can serve as a holding space for books, phones, or other objects that don’t need a flat, horizontal surface to lie on. As a bonus, the kerfs and ribs of the stool are exposed and visible for everyone to see, creating visual accents that make the stool look more interesting.

Admittedly, some might have concerns about how long the dovetail joints will hold over time as the wooden contacts between the joints wear down. The kerfs might also look a bit worrying, especially on the legs, given the decrease in the mass of the wooden boards. Nevertheless, it’s an interesting concept that tries to think outside the flat-packed box to provide a design that isn’t as flat, literally and figuratively.

The post Bent wooden stool requires no screws or hinges to assemble from flat packaging first appeared on Yanko Design.

Library Lamp puts a sleek modern spin on a classic lighting fixture

It might be a foreign concept to those born in the age of the Internet and smartphones, but libraries were once the only place where you could get voluminous amounts of correct information. Of course, these institutions still do exist, especially in schools and universities, but the image of a quiet room with shelf after shelf of books might seem odd and even eerie to some. There are aspects of this imagery that have almost become iconic over the decades, such as the archetypal metal-encased lamp used not just in libraries but even in banks. Those lamps would naturally look antiquated on modern desks, so this design reinterprets that classic concept into something that pays homage to the past while also embracing the aesthetics of the present.

Designers: Ben Kicic, Emilio Halperin

The Library Lamp or Banker’s Lamp had a singular purpose: to illuminate the reading material or papers in front of the user without disturbing or distracting others nearby. As such, it often has a softer, less glaring glow than most desk lamps would have today, while still offering enough brightness, especially at night. Of course, these lamps reflected the design trends of that period, which were often more ornate than practical. It would make for a good decorative desk piece, but would still look out of place in today’s workplaces.

This redesign takes the spirit of the library lamp and inserts it in a form that embodies more modern industrial aesthetics, particularly the use of simple shapes and curves as well as unpainted milled aluminum. Instead of a single elaborate stand, the trapezoidal lamp shade is held aloft by two slim arms that also serve to hide the lamp’s internal wiring from plain sight. These parts stand on a horizontal block of metal that has a subtly concave surface that serves not only to diffuse the light but also to hold small objects like keys, pens, and other knickknacks.

In addition to its sleek modern appearance, the Library Lamp also incorporates modern technological conveniences. In particular, the base, arms, and even the lampshade itself are touch-sensitive, providing physical controls without the need for disruptive buttons and switches. Just like its forebear, the lamp gets the job done with minimal fuss and confusion. It also looks quite striking as a representative of the dominant design trend of its period, adding a touch of beautiful minimalism and industrial design to any desk, workspace, or shelf.

The post Library Lamp puts a sleek modern spin on a classic lighting fixture first appeared on Yanko Design.

Library Lamp puts a sleek modern spin on a classic lighting fixture

It might be a foreign concept to those born in the age of the Internet and smartphones, but libraries were once the only place where you could get voluminous amounts of correct information. Of course, these institutions still do exist, especially in schools and universities, but the image of a quiet room with shelf after shelf of books might seem odd and even eerie to some. There are aspects of this imagery that have almost become iconic over the decades, such as the archetypal metal-encased lamp used not just in libraries but even in banks. Those lamps would naturally look antiquated on modern desks, so this design reinterprets that classic concept into something that pays homage to the past while also embracing the aesthetics of the present.

Designers: Ben Kicic, Emilio Halperin

The Library Lamp or Banker’s Lamp had a singular purpose: to illuminate the reading material or papers in front of the user without disturbing or distracting others nearby. As such, it often has a softer, less glaring glow than most desk lamps would have today, while still offering enough brightness, especially at night. Of course, these lamps reflected the design trends of that period, which were often more ornate than practical. It would make for a good decorative desk piece, but would still look out of place in today’s workplaces.

This redesign takes the spirit of the library lamp and inserts it in a form that embodies more modern industrial aesthetics, particularly the use of simple shapes and curves as well as unpainted milled aluminum. Instead of a single elaborate stand, the trapezoidal lamp shade is held aloft by two slim arms that also serve to hide the lamp’s internal wiring from plain sight. These parts stand on a horizontal block of metal that has a subtly concave surface that serves not only to diffuse the light but also to hold small objects like keys, pens, and other knickknacks.

In addition to its sleek modern appearance, the Library Lamp also incorporates modern technological conveniences. In particular, the base, arms, and even the lampshade itself are touch-sensitive, providing physical controls without the need for disruptive buttons and switches. Just like its forebear, the lamp gets the job done with minimal fuss and confusion. It also looks quite striking as a representative of the dominant design trend of its period, adding a touch of beautiful minimalism and industrial design to any desk, workspace, or shelf.

The post Library Lamp puts a sleek modern spin on a classic lighting fixture first appeared on Yanko Design.

Downsizing 101: How to Declutter Your Life Before Moving Into a Tiny Home

Moving into a tiny home represents more than just a change in living space; it’s a lifestyle transformation. The idea of downsizing can be both thrilling and daunting. For design enthusiasts and those committed to creative living, this process provides a unique opportunity to curate a space that’s both functional and beautiful. Drawing from experience and expertise, this guide delves into practical, design-forward strategies to help you declutter effectively and thoughtfully.

01. Start with Intention

Downsizing requires a mindful approach, especially when transitioning to a tiny home. Begin by envisioning how you want your new space to function and feel. Prioritize elements that serve dual purposes and contribute to your desired ambiance. This step sets a clear direction and makes the decluttering process more manageable.

For instance, consider the role of each item in your home. Does it serve a functional purpose? Does it add aesthetic value? Items that meet both criteria should be prioritized. This intentionality helps in creating a space that’s not just smaller but more curated and harmonious. An intentional design mindset ensures that every piece in your tiny home adds to the overall quality of life, making your new living environment both efficient and inspiring.

02. Embrace Multi-Functional Furniture

In a tiny home, every piece of furniture must work hard. Multi-functional furniture is key to maximizing limited space without sacrificing comfort or style. Look for pieces that offer multiple uses, such as a sofa bed, a fold-out desk, or a dining table with built-in storage.

A great example is the use of a Murphy bed, which folds up against the wall when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space. Similarly, ottomans with hidden storage compartments can serve as seating, storage, and even a coffee table. These smart solutions allow you to maintain a clean, uncluttered space while still having all the functionality you need.

The beauty of multi-functional furniture lies in its ability to adapt to your needs. By investing in these versatile pieces, you create a dynamic living environment where each item plays a crucial role in enhancing your space’s usability and aesthetic appeal.

03. Incorporate Built-In Storage

Built-in storage solutions are a tiny home’s best friend. They help keep the space organized and clutter-free, ensuring that everything has its place. Custom built-ins can be integrated into walls, stairs, and even furniture, providing seamless storage options that don’t intrude on your living area.

Consider installing built-in shelves in nooks and crannies that would otherwise go unused. Staircases can double as drawers, and benches can hide compartments underneath their seats. These built-in solutions not only save space but also add a touch of custom craftsmanship to your home.

The key to effective built-in storage is customization. Tailor these solutions to fit your specific needs and the unique dimensions of your tiny home. This personalized approach ensures maximum efficiency and adds a bespoke element to your living space, making it uniquely yours.

04. Maximize Vertical Space

When floor space is limited, think vertically. Maximizing vertical space is essential in a tiny home, and it can be achieved through creative shelving, hanging storage, and lofted areas. This approach helps keep your belongings accessible while maintaining an open and airy feel.

Vertical storage can take many forms. Floating shelves, pegboards, and hanging baskets are excellent for storing kitchen utensils, tools, and even plants. Lofted areas can serve as additional sleeping quarters or cozy reading nooks. By utilizing the full height of your space, you expand your storage capacity without crowding your living area.

An often-overlooked aspect of vertical storage is the aesthetic element. Vertical arrangements draw the eye upward, creating the illusion of a taller, more spacious room. This visual trick can make your tiny home feel much larger than it is, enhancing both functionality and design.

05. Adopt a Minimalist Aesthetic

A minimalist aesthetic is perfectly suited for tiny homes. It focuses on simplicity, clean lines, and a restrained color palette, creating a serene and uncluttered environment. This design approach not only makes your space feel larger but also promotes a sense of calm and order.

Start by decluttering ruthlessly. Keep only the essentials and items that bring you joy. Choose furniture with sleek designs and avoid ornate details that can overwhelm a small space. Neutral colors and natural materials, such as wood and stone, enhance the minimalist look and add warmth to your home.

Minimalism doesn’t mean your space has to be devoid of personality. Instead, it encourages you to be selective about what you include. Each piece should have a purpose and contribute to the overall aesthetic. This thoughtful curation creates a cohesive and inviting environment, making your tiny home a stylish sanctuary. Remember, minimalism isn’t for everyone. If you can find ways to creatively (and aesthetically) store your belongings, then maximalism may just be your style!

The Transformer Table seats anywhere from 2 to 12 people thanks to a clever expanding design

06. Select Timeless and Versatile Pieces

In a tiny home, every piece of furniture and decor must earn its place. Opt for timeless and versatile items that can adapt to various functions and styles. This approach ensures that your space remains relevant and functional as your needs and tastes evolve.

Consider investing in classic furniture designs that never go out of style. Pieces like a well-crafted wooden dining table or a sleek mid-century modern chair can anchor your space and provide long-term value. Versatile items, such as nesting tables or stackable chairs, offer flexibility and can be easily reconfigured to suit different occasions.

Choosing timeless and versatile pieces also reduces the need for frequent replacements, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle. This focus on quality over quantity aligns with the principles of minimalism and enhances the longevity of your space.

07. Implement Creative Storage Hacks

Innovative storage solutions are essential in a tiny home. Creative hacks can help you organize your belongings efficiently and keep your space clutter-free. These solutions often involve repurposing everyday items or thinking outside the box to find new uses for existing spaces.

Magnetic strips, for example, can be used to store metal kitchen utensils or tools, freeing up drawer space. Pegboards offer customizable storage options for everything from craft supplies to office equipment. Hidden compartments in furniture or behind walls provide discreet storage for valuables.

Another effective hack is the use of hooks and racks. Install them on doors, walls, or even the ceiling to hang items like bikes, bags, and coats. These small changes can significantly increase your storage capacity without compromising on style or space.

08. Use Natural Light to Your Advantage

Natural light is a powerful tool in making a small space feel larger and more inviting. Designing your tiny home to maximize natural light can transform your living environment, making it brighter and more cheerful.

Large windows, skylights, and glass doors are excellent ways to bring in more light. Reflective surfaces, such as mirrors and glossy finishes, can help bounce light around the room, enhancing its brightness. Light-colored walls and furnishings also contribute to a more open and airy feel.

To make the most of natural light, keep window treatments minimal. Sheer curtains or blinds that can be easily pulled back allow maximum light to enter while providing privacy when needed. This approach not only brightens your space but also connects the indoors with the outdoors, creating a sense of expansiveness.

09. Personalize with Art and Textiles

Even in a minimalist tiny home, there’s room for personal touches. Art and textiles are excellent ways to add warmth, color, and personality to your space without overwhelming it. Carefully selected pieces can reflect your unique style and make your home feel truly yours.

Opt for artwork that resonates with you and complements your overall design. A few well-chosen pieces can make a significant impact. Similarly, textiles like rugs, cushions, and throws add texture and comfort. Choose natural materials and patterns that enhance your minimalist aesthetic.

When selecting art and textiles, think about their placement and scale. In a small space, it’s crucial to strike a balance between adding interest and maintaining an open feel. Grouping smaller pieces together or opting for one large statement piece can create a cohesive look.

10. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Choices

Downsizing offers an excellent opportunity to adopt more eco-friendly and sustainable living practices. By choosing sustainable materials and products, you contribute to a healthier environment and create a more responsible living space.

Opt for furniture made from reclaimed wood or other sustainable materials. Incorporate energy-efficient appliances and fixtures to reduce your carbon footprint, rely on solar energy to help save costs while utilizing renewable energy. Efficient LED lighting, low-flow faucets, and energy-saving kitchen appliances are all excellent choices. Additionally, consider incorporating green elements like plants, which improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your home.


Moving into a tiny home requires thoughtful planning and intentional design choices. As you downsize, focus on quality over quantity that will enrich your life while allowing you to turn your home into an extension of your personality.

In the end, downsizing to a tiny home isn’t just about reducing your physical footprint—it’s about simplifying your life and creating a space that reflects your values and supports your lifestyle. With these tips and a little creativity, you can make your tiny home a haven of comfort, style, and efficiency.

Also Read: Ten Things They Don’t Tell You About Tiny Homes

The post Downsizing 101: How to Declutter Your Life Before Moving Into a Tiny Home first appeared on Yanko Design.

Floating lamp illusion brings an air of mystery to your living space

Lamps come in all shapes and sizes, but the one thing they have in common is that most of them come in a single piece and are anchored to the ceiling, wall, or even the floor. While there’s definitely nothing wrong with that, there’s also room for improvement when it comes to simplifying not only the design but also their installation and maintenance. Many lamps involve complicated wiring or installing fixtures in places that can clutter the space, physically and visually. This intriguing lamp design solves that in a peculiar way that ends up making the lamp look like it’s floating in midair, creating an atmosphere of magic and mystery in any space it’s in.

Designer: Paul Cocksedge

The most critical part of a lamp is, of course, the light source, but many lamps also need a way to direct or diffuse the light to make it less blinding. While most designs have these pieces in a single form, there’s no rule they have to be on a single body. Shade, whose name might not reflect its mesmerizing appearance, deconstructs and separates the design of a lamp into its two most basic parts, creating what is probably the most minimalist lamp design of all.

When lit up, Shade looks like a white conical lampshade eerily floating in the air, almost like a stereotypical ghost. Of course, it’s not literally floating but suspended by “capillary-thin” wires that are practically invisible unless you see them up close. But that’s only half the magic because the lampshade itself doesn’t have a light source. Instead, that comes from a small, can-shaped directional spotlight shining upward into the lampshade, creating the illusion of a floating lamp.

In essence, Shade separates the lamp into the shade and the actual light source, and neither is physically connected to the other. More than just creating this bewildering sight, this design also simplifies the installation of the lamp. No need for complicated wiring since the lamp can be set anywhere on the floor where the shade can be hung. You can also place the lamp anywhere as well, though you might want to put it somewhere safe and hidden, just to heighten the sense of mystery.

The construction of Shade itself is pretty simple, with the lampshade made of soft yet durably Japanese paper. This material not only gives the shade an almost pure white surface but also gently diffuses the light to a soft glow. The crumpled paper also gives it a unique visual texture that creates a subtle play of light and shadows, enhancing the lamp’s distinctive appeal even when the lights are off.

The post Floating lamp illusion brings an air of mystery to your living space first appeared on Yanko Design.

Minimalist table is a charging hub that doesn’t need to plug itself in

Given how almost everyone has a smartphone these days, it’s not really surprising to see establishments and furniture adapting to the situation. Desks, tables, and even shelves have started to integrate charging solutions that make it convenient to top up a mobile device quickly without having to scramble for and fight over a power strip or wall socket. Unfortunately, many of these designs, particularly for tables, add some rather unsightly cables that can also be a safety hazard if not installed properly. This table, in contrast, lets you charge phones and tablets with ease while magically making those cables disappear to preserve the table’s minimalist beauty and avoid tripping people up when they have to move about.

Designer: Carl Magnusson

Tables with integrated charging solutions seem to fall into two extremes. On the one hand, you have regular tablets that have just been retrofitted with power strips and are often seen in public places like coffee shops or even libraries. On the opposite end of the spectrum, there is classier furniture that utilizes wireless charging technologies in order to make power sockets invisible, like the newer desks and shelves from the likes of IKEA. Both designs, however, require the table itself to still be plugged in regardless since it has to take all that power from somewhere.

In that regard, the MagPower Table is almost futuristic with its wireless functionality while still being completely rooted in present design trends with its extremely minimalist design. At first glance, it simply looks like a wooden table with a large circular top and wooden or aluminum legs, but closer inspection will reveal two USB-C slots and one full-sized USB-A slot for charging mobile devices. What makes this design almost mind-blowing is that there isn’t any cable snaking out from one of the table’s legs to connect to a nearby power outlet, making it seem like it’s using wireless charging technologies, at least for itself.

The secret behind this is the design of the table’s leg which can house a rechargeable battery that then powers connected devices. The battery can be removed at the end of the day and recharged separately before being reinstalled the next day. That said, the design also allows for a power brick to be plugged in directly, which has its own convenience, presuming you can live with the sight of that cable.

The MagPower Table’s minimalist aesthetic matches the goal of its design to offer a clutter-free space and enhance your productivity. Granted, it also raises questions about where a single battery is enough to charge several devices at the same time, but it’s certainly possible to expand the design and have all legs house a battery. This would help avoid competing for only three sockets, which will be the most likely scenario if these tables are used in office environments.

The post Minimalist table is a charging hub that doesn’t need to plug itself in first appeared on Yanko Design.