Tag Archives: materials

Why is Mycelium Nature’s Sustainable Hero in Building Materials?

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Mycelium, an intricate mesh of fungal filamentous cells known as hyphae, is formed by fungi across a broad spectrum of organic substrates. Mycelium, known for durability and eco-friendliness, is ideal for creating daily-use products, offering resilience and sustainability for designers aiming to craft durable, environmentally responsible items with minimal ecological impact.

Designer: Interesting Times Gang and OBOS

What are the advantages of using Mycelium?

Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, is gaining attention in product design for several reasons:

• Sustainable Material

Mycelium is an eco-friendly material and an alternative to plastic or foam. It’s important to note that mycelium-based products are renewable, biodegradable, and can be combined with agricultural waste products to create composite materials.

Designer: FirstBuild

Mella is an automated chamber designed for effortless cultivation of various crops at home. Utilizing smart technology, Mella regulates environmental conditions to ensure optimal growth and harvest. With features like a refillable water basin, LED lights, and WiFi compatibility, Mella simplifies the cultivation process for all types of crops, making home gardening convenient and accessible.

• Flexible

Mycelium is a flexible material that can be grown and molded into various shapes and forms. It can be used to create numerous products, ranging from furniture to packaging.

Designers: Diego Mata and NOS Design

The Grow It Yourself Helmet is a sustainable DIY helmet crafted from mushrooms that actually grows on its own! Created by NOS Design, this innovative helmet is made from mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi. It’s 100% compostable, breathable, and impact-resistant, reducing the need for plastics. Partnering with Polybion, the helmet utilizes Fungicel, a mycelium-based material that provides cushioning upon impact. This biodegradable, low-cost alternative promotes sustainability and engages users in a meaningful DIY activity, offering a practical and eco-friendly solution.

• Highly Durable

Mycelium products are strong and durable, their strength and durability depend on their conditions of growth and processing techniques.

• Thermal and Acoustic Insulation

Mycelium has excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties and finds its application in the construction and packaging industry, where insulation is essential.

Designer: Mogu

The Foresta System by Mogu is a groundbreaking collection of sustainable modular acoustic panels. Crafted from a unique blend of mycelium and upcycled textile materials, these panels offer organic yet durable noise-reduction solutions for spaces like offices and restaurants. Recognized for its eco-conscious design, Foresta integrates mycelium into its build. With a 100% circular design ethos and advanced wood processing technologies, Foresta combines elegance with innovation, setting a new standard in acoustic panel design.

Designer: Jonas Edvard

Jonas Edvard’s Myx Sail / Floor is a groundbreaking sound-absorbing panel, merging mushroom mycelium, hemp, and willow in a 1m x 1m design. Collaborating with nature, he explores mycelium’s flexibility and rigidity within a modular mold, envisioning its seamless integration into living spaces. With a focus on sound absorption, Edvard’s research highlights the viability of mycelium in reducing environmental impact while inspiring a harmonious relationship between design and nature.

• Biodegradable

Mycelium is a biodegradable material that breaks down naturally at the end of its lifecycle thus reducing its environmental pollution.

• Low Carbon Footprint

Growing mycelium demands fewer resources, it does not release a lot of greenhouse gases which makes it better for the environment.

• Material and Product Innovation

Another advantage is that mycelium can be combined with other natural materials like hemp or straw to create stronger composite materials with enhanced properties.

Designer: Emilie Burfeind

Sneature is a biodegradable shoe crafted with waste materials and 3D knitting technology. Designed by Burfeind, this sustainable sneaker offers an eco-conscious alternative to traditional footwear. Featuring a protein-based 3D knit membrane made from dog hair and a mushroom mycelium sole composed of local vegetable waste, Sneature prioritizes sustainability and customization. With water-repellent properties and a second-skin feel, Sneature combines style with environmental responsibility.

Designer: Stephanie Singer

MYC is a sustainable disposable grill made from mycelium and was created by industrial design student Stephanie Singer, MYC offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional aluminum grills. After use, MYC can be left to biodegrade and enrich the soil. With a grate made of bamboo sticks and dried corn cobs as fuel, MYC promotes sustainability without compromising convenience.

• Organic Aesthetic

Mycelium-based materials can offer a unique, organic aesthetic with a natural look, making them attractive to product designers.

Designer: Sebastian Cox with Ninela Ivanova

Sebastian Cox’s Mycelium pendant lamps redefine production by growing rather than being manufactured. Partnering with researcher Ninela Ivanova, Cox utilizes mycelium, the vegetative part of mushrooms, and scrap willow wood to create these uniquely rustic lamps. Each lamp takes 4-12 weeks to grow and is entirely compostable, showcasing the fusion of natural elements in sustainable design.

What are the disadvantages of using Mycelium?

Although mycelium is a sustainable material, it faces some challenges

• No Standardization

As mycelium is a natural product, its growth is influenced by temperature and humidity, making it difficult to achieve a standardized and consistent product. Note that mycelium growth takes longer and is not suitable for mass production or time-sensitive projects.

Designers: Myceen

‘B-Wise’ by Myceen is a sustainable lampshade crafted entirely from mycelium. This innovative design grows into its unique shape in just 5 weeks, using organic waste materials. With a rugged appearance reminiscent of leather, mycelium offers eco-friendly properties and versatile applications, even extending to architecture and space exploration.

• Moisture Sensitivity

Mycelium-based materials are susceptible to moisture, which can impact their structural strength and lifespan, potentially leading to product degradation if not stored correctly.

• Limited Applications

Mycelium-based products have limited applications and may not be suitable for items exposed to high temperatures or humidity. Furthermore, mycelium is yet to gain widespread market acceptance.

Designer: RMIT University

Fungi could become a game-changer in fireproofing homes. Researchers at a Melbourne university have developed fire-retardant mycelium sheets that offer insulation and can be applied over flammable surfaces. These bioengineered sheets, derived from fungi, are both sustainable and environmentally friendly, emitting natural water and carbon dioxide. The aim is to enhance fire safety in buildings while minimizing environmental impact.

• Costly Material

The costs associated with research and development contribute to the expense of producing mycelium-based products, making them economically unfeasible for certain applications.

Why is Mycelium becoming a popular construction material?

Mycelium-based building materials are crafted via myco-composite manufacturing which blends mycelium with agricultural waste such as straw, sawdust, or hemp. This mixture is poured into molds and left to settle for several days. During this time, the mycelium digests the agricultural waste, bonding with it to create a sturdy, cohesive material. Once fully grown and solidified, the material is removed from the molds, and ready for construction use.

Although this eco-friendly solution is still under study for its strength and durability compared to conventional options like bricks, mycelium finds applications in insulation, soundproofing, and lightweight construction blocks.

Designer: The Living

“Alive” is a groundbreaking architectural prototype by The Living. This innovative structure utilizes probiotic materials, showcasing the future of sustainable architecture. Crafted from mycelium, the vegetative part of mushrooms, it offers a glimpse into a new era of eco-friendly design. Its organic, porous construction provides a habitat for various microbes while facilitating interaction between humans and microorganisms. Made from renewable luffa fibers, this prototype embodies sustainability and adaptability. “Alive” is not just a concept for the future – it’s a practical solution for creating healthier, more environmentally friendly spaces today.

Designer: Pierre Oskam and Max Latour

Urban Reef is a 3D-printed mycelium-based structure designed to enhance biodiversity in cities. Developed by a Netherlands-based company, this innovative project aims to stimulate water circularity and support diverse ecosystems within urban environments. Utilizing porous materials like ceramics and mycelium composites, Urban Reef creates an ideal habitat for fungi and vegetation to thrive, promoting sustainable urban ecosystems without human intervention.

The post Why is Mycelium Nature’s Sustainable Hero in Building Materials? first appeared on Yanko Design.

ASUS Zenbook S 14 Ceraluminum Laptop Review: Elegance You Can Feel, Power You Can Touch

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PROS:


  • Gorgeous Ceraluminum design with a unique tactile experience

  • Ultra-thin and lightweight chassis for effortless portability

  • Lush and vibrant 14-inch 3K 120Hz OLED display

  • Impressive performance, including light gaming

CONS:


  • Port selection is a bit constrained

  • RAM is integrated into System-on-Chip


RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Packing incredible performance in a compact and beautiful design, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 redefines what ultraportable laptops are capable of and demonstrates how to deliver a design that you can feel.
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For the longest time, Apple MacBooks have set themselves apart from the rest of the laptop crowd with their stylish designs, while laptop manufacturers preferred to focus on the performance and technical aspects of their products. Consumer tastes have shifted, however, and brands have started their search for thinner and lighter designs, though they always get stumped by the laws of physics and the limits of technologies and materials. Always in Search of Incredible, ASUS decided to look to other places for inspiration, both from other industries and Mother Nature herself. The result is a new “meta-material” Ceraluminum, which debuted on the ASUS Zenbook S 14, a rather striking laptop that promises the best of all worlds. Naturally, we couldn’t resist getting our hands on it and taking it for a test run to see whether its beauty runs deep.

Designer: ASUS

Aesthetics

Laptop lids are often made from metal like aluminum or plastic, both of which offer different strengths but also weaknesses. Lately, titanium has become the hot new material for electronics because of its durable and lightweight properties, but it is far from the end-all and be-all of metallic products. Taking a page from the aerospace and luxury watch industries, ASUS developed a new oxidation or “ceramization” to produce a sort of hybrid or meta-material, if you would, that combines not only the lightness of aluminum and the hardness of ceramic but also creates a new visual and tactile experience never before seen on a laptop.

“Ceraluminum” is the marketing term for what ASUS previously called Plasma Ceramic Aluminum, and our very own Vincent Nguyen describes the material in better detail. The end result is a laptop cover that looks nothing less than a piece of art, especially with the lines that cross its surface to create geometric patterns. Not only is the laptop great to look at, but it also feels great to touch. There’s a certain degree of roughness to its surface, almost like paper. Considering its paper-light weight and thinness, it almost feels like you’re simply carrying a stack of white or gray paper.

And yes, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 is unbelievably thin and lightweight, only 1.1cm (0.47 inches) thin and 1.2 kg (2.65 lbs) light. It gives the laptop a rather striking profile that grabs attention from any angle. And with its tactile design and lightweight body, you might find yourself wanting to carry the laptop in your arms often, truly a design that you can feel.

Fortunately, the laptop’s beauty doesn’t disappear when you lift up the lid. The very thin bezels almost disappear completely, giving way to the bright and colorful ASUS Lumina OLED display. The clean and modest design of the keyboard and the touchpad pad perfectly complement the minimalism of the laptop’s lids. Even the rather unique ventilation grid lying between the keyboard and the display hinge brings functional aesthetics into the picture. No matter which way you look at and hold the Zenbook S 14, you are greeted by a strikingly elegant display that you touch with your eyes as well as with your fingers.

Ergonomics

With such a thin and light design, there is really no argument about the portability of this laptop. You can easily carry it anywhere by hand or slip it inside a bag, and use it anywhere as well, including on your laptop. This makes the Zenbook S 14 ideal for people who find themselves always on the move, sometimes even at a moment’s notice. Best of all, they aren’t losing out on power and performance, as we’ll see later, so there are almost no downsides to its design.

That said, if you’re a bit picky about your typing experience, you might have some issues with the ASUS Zenbook S 14’s keyboard. With a profile as thin as this, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the keyboard actually has a bit of a shallow travel distance, just around 1.1mm. Mind you, that’s not exactly a deal breaker and we found it to still be quite comfortable and enjoyable to type on. In fact, considering that same thin profile, it’s a miracle that this keyboard could actually feel this good. Again, your mileage might vary, but keyboard connoisseurs might want to take note of this detail.

Another minor matter that may or may not ruin your experience is the very bright keyboard backlight. Although adjustable, even its dimmest setting might feel a little blinding to more sensitive eyes, especially in a dark room. On the bright side (no pun intended), the light and the keys are also very visible even in bright surroundings. Again, not a huge flaw but something you’ll want to consider based on your personal preferences.

Performance

You might be wondering what the catch is since thin laptops have traditionally been underpowered to the point of being unusable for anything but the most basic computing tasks. There are a small number of gotchas, indeed, but not in the ways you might expect and definitely not damning enough to ruin mar the Zenbook S 14’s prestige. In fact, it’s pretty mind-blowing that this ultra-thin laptop is able to perform this well, offering a no-compromise mobile computing experience.

Part of that is thanks to the new Intel Lunar Lake processor, specifically the Core Ultra 7 258V. It uses a system-on-chip design that integrates a CPU, a dedicated NPU (Neural Processing Unit), an Intel Arc Xe GPU, and 32GB of RAM. Yes, that memory is built into the processor, which does have an important implication we’ll get to later. Regardless, this compact silicon design is what allowed Intel and ASUS to maximize internal space, allowing them to cram more or bigger components, like a 72Wh battery.

The Zenbook S 14’s raw benchmark performance is nothing short of impressive, easily matching other 28W laptops. Considering ultra-thin 14-inch laptops often operate at a much lower 15W TDP to avoid overheating, this is quite a remarkable feat. Perhaps the most telling achievement is how this slim laptop can deftly handle gaming loads with medium graphics settings instead of the typical low settings. Although it’s not marketed as a content creation or gaming laptop, it can definitely fit the bill with some performance tweaking and adjustments.

What’s a bit more interesting, however, is how the laptop’s performance seems to lean more towards unplugged use. Of course, this is perhaps one of the most important considerations for a laptop, since wouldn’t want to have it always plugged in, defeating the purpose of its portability. Long story short, the Zenbook S 14 seems to perform best when on battery, providing a good balance of power and efficiency to meet any computing need anywhere, anytime. And with mixed use, you can get a little under 20 hours of battery life on a single charge. That’s well under ASUS’s advertised 27 hours of non-stop video playback, but the realistic numbers are still quite good.

This makes the ASUS Zenbook S 14 a great all-around laptop, and that includes multimedia and, as mentioned, even games. The 14-inch 3K OLED screen is just breathtaking with its brightness and colors, and being part of the ASUS Lumina line, it is also PANTONE-validated, making it an excellent tool for creators, and the monitor’s 120Hz is actually a must-have for gamers. Four high-quality speakers give a punchy treatment to videos and music, making this laptop a multimedia powerhouse despite its modest and business-minded looks.

One area where the Zenbook S 14 might come up short for some people is the number of ports available. Remember that time when Apple got chided for replacing all the ports on MacBook Pros with just four C-Type Thunderbolt 4 ports? It’s not as bad here, but there will definitely be some who will find the selection far too modest. There are only two of those USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, both of which can be used for charging, data, and video out. There’s also one full-sized USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, one HDMI 2.1 port, and a headphone/mic combo jack. That’s pretty much it. There isn’t even an SD card reader, which will probably disappoint photographers. Both USB-C ports are located on the same side, which forces you to have the charger and dongles competing for space. The lack of other ports might not be that big of a problem when you dock the laptop at home or in the office, but if your office tends to change locations, you’ll have to bring a hub with you as well.

Sustainability

ASUS has been working hard to step up to the challenge of making the world a greener place for future generations, and its most ambitious attempt yet can be seen in its most ambitious material design as well. Ceraluminum isn’t just a fancy new material with a beautiful aesthetic and satisfying texture; it is also a more sustainable alternative to the usual metal anodizing techniques used by manufacturers. Instead of corrosive acids that release harmful toxins into the air, ASUS’ ceramization process uses water and super-high voltage electricity to produce an even better oxide layer, creating this blend of lightweight durability your fingers will love.

The ASUS Zenbook S 14 is also made to last, thanks to that Ceraluminum material that’s not only scratch-resistant but also smudge-resistant. And despite its luxurious aesthetic, this laptop actually boasts military-grade MIL-STD-810H compliance, ensuring that it can survive accidental bumps, high-frequency vibrations, and extreme temperatures. One aspect that takes a point from its longevity is the fact that you can only upgrade the M.2 NVMe SSD, and only up to 1TB capacity. The 32GB of RAM is, as mentioned, fixed and soldered. Yes, that might be enough for most use cases, but only today. Who knows how demanding apps and services will be just a few years from now.

Value

Most people marvel at ultra-thin laptops but pass them over because those slim profiles barely have enough power to meet their needs. Finding the right balance between portability, power, and price is like a hunting game, but you don’t need to go any further than what ASUS is now offering on the table. With a beautiful 14-inch screen, only 1.1cm thick, and weighing only 2.65 lbs, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 delivers a versatile machine that doesn’t compromise on performance, at least not in significant ways.

Best of all, it’s an absolute beauty to behold and to hold! Ceraluminum might sound like a buzzword, but its aesthetic value and tactile experience are the real deal. The $1,499.99 price tag for the 32GB RAM model is indeed nothing to scoff at either, but when you realize all the value that you’re getting, it’s almost a steal.

Verdict

We have finally reached a point where laptops no longer need to be hulking blocks of metal just to catch up with their desktop counterparts. While they still lose out on raw performance and customization, today’s laptops can be slimmer than ever and, more importantly, offer a design experience that desktop towers can only dream of. Of course, it takes no small amount of creative thinking, bold decision-making, and the courage to go beyond the boundaries of convention to create an amazing experience that will satiate consumer’s thirst for better-designed products. ASUS has definitely proven that it isn’t averse to taking that big leap, and the Zenbook S 14 is a shining testament to that daring spirit to create designs that you can see and feel.

The post ASUS Zenbook S 14 Ceraluminum Laptop Review: Elegance You Can Feel, Power You Can Touch first appeared on Yanko Design.

Motorskins’ SELK Technology Is Bringing Textiles To Life For A Smarter Future

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MotorSkins is revolutionizing the way we interact with technology with their cutting-edge SELK technology. This innovative system exemplifies the powerful fusion of ambient computing and programmable matter, promising to profoundly transform our relationship with both the digital and physical worlds.

Designer: Motorskins

SELK technology is the flagship innovation from MotorSkins. It integrates soft robotics, fluid logic, and software/API into a cohesive and intelligent system. This sophisticated multilayered textile structure, known as programmable matter, has the ability to sense, react, and adapt to its surroundings. This makes SELK not just a piece of technology, but a dynamic and interactive material.

In today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape, ambient computing is emerging as a visionary concept for the future. It imagines a world where technology is seamlessly integrated into our environment, working effortlessly and becoming an inherent part of our daily lives. Complementing this vision is the field of programmable matter, which involves engineering materials to dynamically change their properties, such as shape or function, in response to user input or environmental changes.

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MotorSkins’ SELK technology sits at the intersection of ambient computing and programmable matter. This technology transcends traditional interfaces, offering a tactile, responsive medium that not only coexists harmoniously with its environment but actively enhances it. By incorporating SELK’s smart textile actuators into everyday products, MotorSkins showcases a forward-thinking approach to material science. These actuators transform static objects into interactive, adaptable interfaces, allowing materials to respond intuitively to user inputs and environmental changes.

The company is applying SELK technology to create dynamic orthoses in the healthcare sector. These orthoses, made from SELK’s versatile material, combine simplicity in design with enhanced functionality and performance. This wearable interface adapts to the user’s movements, providing support and flexibility where needed.

In the automotive industry, SELK technology is set to revolutionize car interiors. Imagine a car cabin that adjusts to your needs, with buttons, comfort features, and haptic feedback appearing only when required. This leads to safer and more intuitive interactions between drivers and their vehicles.

MotorSkins is also exploring how SELK can improve human-machine interfaces, creating more ergonomic workspaces and interactive, responsive environments. By merging programmable matter with the principles of ambient computing, MotorSkins is not just developing advanced tech interfaces; they are fundamentally reshaping the way we interact with technology.

These efforts predict a future where technology seamlessly integrates into our daily lives, enhancing our experiences in natural and unobtrusive ways. Motorskins’ innovative work demonstrates how design and technology can synergistically improve human life, making our interactions with the world more intuitive and connected.

The post Motorskins’ SELK Technology Is Bringing Textiles To Life For A Smarter Future first appeared on Yanko Design.

Reviving Rattan: A Contemporary Take on Classic Style

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As interior design trends evolve, rattan is staging a remarkable comeback after almost 30 years, infusing any space with tropical-inspired vibes. Rattan has a rich history of gracing homes and outdoor spaces globally for decades, infusing any space with tropical-inspired vibes. Embraced for its durability and versatility, this natural material, derived from climbing vine-like palm plants, effortlessly lends itself to various shapes and patterns. From lighting to furniture, rattan finds its place in home decor, particularly enhancing bohemian, nautical, and traditional styles with its charming, airy appeal.

Designer: Aureole x Tanoti

Rattan’s revival is fueled by its craftsmanship and the increasing preference for natural materials in modern decor. Additionally, the best part about integrating rattan into home decor is that it possesses the capacity to infuse warmth and a relaxed ambiance into any environment, imparting a sense of casual ease to the space.

Is rattan sustainable?

Rattan, a tropical vine that is native to tropical areas in Asia, Australia, and Africa and it possesses the flexibility to be molded into numerous intricate forms. Crafted by skilled artisans with basic manufacturing processes, it requires minimal facilities. Its rapid growth, at 2cm per day, allows for harvest within 2-3 years, faster than traditional wood. Known for durability, well-made rattan furniture can last over a decade, making it an eco-friendly alternative akin to solid wood.

Image courtesy of: colnihko

What is the difference between rattan and wicker?

Rattan and wicker are often confused, but they have distinct meanings. Rattan refers to the natural material from the rattan palm tree, while wicker encompasses woven materials like natural fibers and plastics including rattan.

Image courtesy of: FollowTheFlowStudio

What are the advantages of using rattan in home decor?

Adds Texture

Rattan, with its rich and organic feel, can create a cozy atmosphere while contrasting nicely with smooth surfaces like metal, glass, or marble, adding visual interest and complementing various decor styles.

Image courtesy of: varyapigu

Natural Material

Opting for rattan instead of synthetic or non-renewable materials enables one to lessen the environmental footprint while backing local communities engaged in rattan production.

Lightweight

Rattan furniture’s lightweight nature facilitates easy rearrangement between rooms and indoor-outdoor versatility, offering convenience and flexibility in home decor.

Affordable

Image courtesy of: FollowTheFlowStudio

Rattan furniture, known for its affordability, low maintenance, and durability, serves as a practical choice for home decor, with the option to extend its lifespan through protective coatings against moisture and UV rays.

How to incorporate Rattan into your home décor?

Rattan products, provide an exciting addition to any decor, offering an incredible texture that seamlessly integrates into various styles. Rattan pieces extend beyond outdoor settings, seamlessly blending into existing indoor decor with their natural textures.

1. Furniture

Designer: Anne Brandhøj

Eclipse is a revolutionary chair crafted from flexible rattan wood, defying convention with its minimalist yet captivating design. Featuring an open box seat wrapped in sleek rattan strips, it creates an airy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for contemplation and relaxation. The iconic vertical arches frame the seated individual, drawing attention to the vast open sky above. Lightweight and visually striking, Eclipse serves as a focal point in any space, effortlessly blending modern aesthetics with natural charm.

Designers: Ching Cheng Chang and Xu Da Zzan

The Mua Lau Lounge Chair is a modern marvel that seamlessly combines rattan with bent metal piping for a unique visual aesthetic. Unlike traditional designs, this chair reimagines rattan’s role, using it as a replacement for foam and cotton for a comfortable yet springy seating experience. Inspired by the beloved Taiwanese treat, the Mua Lau Chair offers a multi-layered sitting sensation, akin to sinking into a delicious snack. With its eye-catching design and surprising comfort, it’s a perfect blend of style and functionality for any space.

Designer: Cuong Nguyen

RU is a nostalgic yet modern lounge chair designed by Cuong Nguyen, inspired by childhood memories. Blending rattan with contemporary comfort, RU offers a cozy retreat in any living space. With its webbed rattan arms and back, paired with a versatile ottoman, RU brings a touch of warmth and nostalgia to your home. Combining plush cushions with timeless materials, it’s a stylish addition that beckons relaxation and evokes sweet memories of days gone by.

These refined pieces of rattan furniture combine the timeless charm of rattan with a sleek Nordic-inspired design. Its sturdy build and minimalist style provide both elegance and functionality to any home decor. It offers a light and airy look to the overall décor.

2. Lighting Design

Designer: Servomuto

Drawing inspiration from ceramics and the organic shapes formed during pottery wheel throwing, the Cement lamp boasts a unique silhouette. Crafted using cement molded in a silicon cast from a vintage porcelain electrical insulator, it exudes a rustic charm. The concrete surface is treated with a wax finish, imparting a silky touch. Complementing this sturdy base are copper light bulb fixtures and a visible stem. Topping it off, the lampshade is available in pure linen or rattan that adds a touch of elegance, creating a harmonious blend with the cement base

Designer: TESU

These rattan pendant lights are versatile and can elevate any space like a bedroom, child’s room, living area, or covered patio. It exudes a bohemian charm and can be seamlessly integrated into various ceiling heights and home decor styles, from coastal to boho and rustic.

3. Multifunctional Design

Designer: Ben Hansen

The rattan side table is a stylish fusion of function and flair that doubles as a dog house, designed by Ben Hansen. This innovative piece cleverly repurposes excess plant water to fill your pet’s bowl, all while adding a touch of charm to your home decor. With its minimalist design and sturdy construction, it’s the perfect solution for modern pet owners looking to seamlessly integrate their furry friends into their living spaces.

4. Room Divider

Designer: Sarunphon Boonto

Bilid is a meticulously crafted rattan room divider that seamlessly merges traditional craftsmanship with modern design. This double-sided divider features contrasting straight and wavy lines, symbolizing unity amidst diversity. Each panel is thoughtfully woven with locally sourced rattan, offering a harmonious blend of warmth and coolness to your space. With its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, Bilid adds both style and functionality to any room, creating a tranquil atmosphere while making a bold design statement.

5. Planters

Designer: Mason Home

Experience nature year-round with this versatile planter that is crafted from rattan and iron, it features a border, vase, and stand, making it the perfect addition to modern decor while ensuring easy maintenance.

6. Travel Bags

Designer: Zidi Chen of Shantou University

The Regression travel bags are a fusion of modern design and ancient Chinese basket-weaving techniques. Crafted from durable rattan, these eye-catching pieces offer both beauty and practicality. With breathable, shock-absorbent qualities and a flexible Lycra interior, they effortlessly adapt to your needs. Perfect for those seeking style and functionality in their luggage, they’re ideal for frequent travelers. However, their pristine beauty may make some hesitant to subject them to everyday wear and tear.

7. Trays

Designer: Fabinidia

Elevate your serving experience with the addition of rattan trays, infusing a touch of natural charm to your tabletop presentation.

8. Innovative Product Design

Designer: Wiktoria Szawiel

This visually intriguing rattan stool challenges perceptions. Crafted from eco-friendly rattan, it showcases the material’s versatility in furniture design. Comfortable and undeniably cool, it’s a testament to creativity and sustainability. As the world embraces a more eco-conscious future, this stool leads the way in innovative design.

The post Reviving Rattan: A Contemporary Take on Classic Style first appeared on Yanko Design.

IWC’s Ceralume and the Future of Glowing Watch Technology

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Imagine strapping a stylish mini flashlight to your wrist. That’s the magic of Ceralume, IWC Schaffhausen’s innovative luminous ceramic technology. Developed by the tech experts at IWC’s XPL division, Ceralume combines ceramic powders with high-grade Super-LumiNova pigments. These pigments absorb light and emit it, ensuring your watch glows brightly for over 24 hours in the dark. Whether navigating a dark trail or trying to find your keys at night, your watch has got you covered.

Designer: IWC Schaffhausen

Revolutionary Material and Engineering

Ceralume is a cut above the rest when it comes to ceramics. Traditional ceramics are already lightweight, incredibly hard, and highly resistant to scratches. However, IWC has taken things further by incorporating Super-LumiNova pigments, enhancing durability and luminescence. Achieving a perfect blend of these materials posed a significant challenge. Think about trying to mix the finest flour with sparkly glitter—it’s not easy. IWC’s engineers developed a custom ball milling process to ensure a perfect mix.

Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 with Ceralume Case

Once the mix’s perfected, the ceramic gets heated in a kiln through sintering to turn it into a solid block. This step has to be precise to retain the luminescent properties without compromising the ceramic’s strength. The final stage involved grinding the ceramic to achieve the desired finish, ensuring it was both tough and brilliantly luminous. This meticulous process highlights IWC’s commitment to innovation and quality in watchmaking.

Enhanced Functionality and Aesthetics

Super-LumiNova pigments are incredibly effective. They absorb light from any source—sunlight, indoor lighting, you name it—and then emit it as a bright, blueish glow in the dark. These pigments can keep glowing indefinitely without degrading. As long as your Ceralume watch is exposed to light, it will continue to shine.

Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 with Ceralume Case

The luminous effect adds practicality and enhances the watch’s aesthetic appeal. Your watch will be highly visible and easily read in low-light conditions. Whether you’re at a dimly lit restaurant or on a night hike, the bright blueish glow makes a striking impression. The luminous properties add a unique visual effect that sets these watches apart from traditional ceramics, blending advanced technology with elegant design. It’s a testament to IWC’s innovative approach to combining functionality with style.

Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 with Ceralume Case

Future Implications and Developments

Ceralume represents a significant milestone for IWC Schaffhausen, paving the way for future innovations in luxury watchmaking. This patent-pending technology will be the foundation for new models, allowing IWC to continue its legacy of pioneering advancements in watch materials. The ability to produce fully luminous ceramic watch cases opens up exciting possibilities for design and functionality, providing watch enthusiasts with practical and visually stunning timepieces.

Ceralume Case

IWC’s first fully luminous ceramic concept watch, the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41, showcases the potential of Ceralume. It perfectly blends functionality and style with a glowing ceramic case, a white luminescent dial, and a rubber strap enriched with Super-LumiNova pigments. This watch makes a bold statement and signals IWC’s commitment to innovation and trend-setting in the watchmaking industry.

Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 with Ceralume Case

Looking ahead, IWC’s continued research and development in luminescent ceramics promise even more breakthroughs. Combining advanced materials with innovative manufacturing processes, IWC remains at the forefront of luxury watchmaking. They are setting new standards for durability, functionality, and design. As IWC continues to explore the potential of Ceralume, watch enthusiasts can expect more exciting developments and exceptional timepieces that reflect the brand’s commitment to excellence. So, next time you’re considering a new watch, think about one that lights up your world.

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What is Jesmonite and Why is it Gaining Popularity in Contemporary Product Design?

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Jesmonite, a flexible substance crafted from a fusion of gypsum sourced from sedimentary rock and water-based acrylic resin, is gaining popularity among artists, eco-conscious enterprises, and DIY enthusiasts. This material emerged in the UK in 1984 and is credited to Peter Hawkins. Jesmonite is known for its durability, flame resistance, and impact resistance, is ideal for crafting objects of all sizes, readily accepting colored pigments and metal powders when mixed. Additionally, it is a preferred option over alternatives like fiberglass, plaster, polyester, or resin because of its safety, eco-friendliness, and user-friendliness.

Designer: Pepper Please Studio

How is Jesmonite made?

Jesmonite, derived from the natural mineral Gypsum is ground into a fine powder and is then blended with a water-based resin. Resembling stone when fully cured, Jesmonite has a rapid setting time of as little as 30 minutes. However, it gradually cures over 24 hours.

What are the benefits of using Jesmonite?

The top benefits of using jesmonite include:

• Versatile Material:

Jesmonite, a versatile material, can replicate any texture and can be pigmented to achieve any color. It is adaptable to various shapes and sizes, effortlessly mimicking the appearance and surface finish of numerous materials such as wood, stone, metal, and even leather.

• Flexible:

Jesmonite can be molded into various shapes and can be used to create both simple and complex designs.

Female sculptor working in pottery studio workshop sculpting human head.

Image courtesy of: zoranzeremski

• Lightweight:

Although Jesmonite can give the appearance of stone, concrete, or metal it is light in weight which makes it user-friendly and easy to handle. Due to its lightweight nature, Jesmonite is favored in other fields where casting and molding are prevalent, particularly in architectural stone and plasterwork applications that demand reduced weight.

• Highly Durable:

Jesmonite is renowned for its durability, withstanding cracking, chipping, and damage while remaining waterproof when sealed. It also resists staining, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, effortlessly handling everyday wear and tear.

• Multiple Finishing Options:

Jesmonite offers versatile finishing options, easily customizable from smooth and matte to rough and textured, making it ideal for crafting unique decor pieces. Unlike concrete and plaster, Jesmonite requires minimal effort to achieve desired finishes without the need for specialized tools or techniques.

• Eco-Friendly:

It is non-toxic, does not emit harmful VOCs, and can be combined with other recyclable materials, further helping to reduce environmental impact.

What are the applications of Jesmonite?

Jesmonite can be used for multiple purposes across various fields and is primarily employed in sculpting and crafting three-dimensional artworks, it also doubles as a suitable painting substrate when paired with other materials. Additionally, Jesmonite functions adeptly as a surface material in construction, offering an appealing alternative to resin-based options like polyester and fiberglass, and is utilized for casting and laminating tasks.

Designer: Pepper Please Studio

Note: Despite being low-hazard, with no need for harmful solvents during mixing and emitting no toxic fumes, caution is urged during mixing, requiring protective gear like rubber gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask in a well-ventilated area, while cleanup is easily done with water.

1. Furniture

Designer: Malgorzata Bany

The Contemporary Jesmonite Side Table – Acacia, designed by Malgorzata Bany, draws inspiration from daily cleansing rituals and natural decay. The ACACIA collection embodies an intuitive construction method, carving the material to create foam molds, ensuring each piece is unique as each mold is used only once. Additionally, the textured body of the acacia vessel recalls Japanese Tsukubai, ceremonial washbasins symbolizing purification for visitors at holy places.

Designer: Hilda Hellström

Crafted by Swedish designer Hilda Hellström, this artistic table is composed of a blend of plaster and jesmonite, and serves various functions as a centerpiece, game, or dining table. Showcasing remarkable artistic vision and practicality, it stands as a true testament to elegance and sophistication.

2. Wall Planters

Designer: Préssec Design

Flora combines a cork pinboard with hanging jesmonite planters, offering a stylish WFH wall accessory. As hybrid and remote work is becoming a popular norm, innovative designs for home office accessories have emerged, including multifunctional solutions integrating storage and organization features. Sydney-based Préssec Design created Flora during the lockdown, initially experimenting with concrete casting before transitioning to jesmonite for seamless integration with the corkboard. Customizable with colorful thumbtacks, Flora maintains crisp edges through meticulous prototyping, using silicone molds for jesmonite casting.

3. Sculpture

Designer: Manny Woodard

Manny Woodard’s sculptures, such as “The Flying Man,” embody contemporary figurative jesmonite sculpture. Woodard’s works prioritize the nuanced dynamics between individuals rather than superficially attractive subject matter, often portraying ordinary people regardless of conventional beauty standards, occasionally depicting individuals who are overweight.

4. Lamps

Designer: Emily Marlin

This lamp is meticulously crafted in Wales from jesmonite/terrazzo material and is perfect for adorning bedside tables or coffee tables next to any sofa. The lamp features a captivating blend of black, white, and copper fragments, exuding modern elegance. Complete with a 1.5m black fabric cable and switch, it offers both style and functionality to illuminate any space with sophistication.

Designer: Egg Designs

The Totem lamp collection draws inspiration from Brutalist forms and incorporates hand-applied details for an individual artisanal flair. Crafted with a terracotta base finished in textured black Jesmonite plaster, each lamp is paired with a shaped raffia shade and polished brass stem, ensuring versatility to complement various interior styles.

5. Stone Carving

Samar, created by British stone carver Zoë Wilson, pays homage to friendship through its intricately precise multidirectional ridges, forming a captivating geometric pattern. Crafted from Jesmonite with a Portland finish, Samar derives its title from the Arabic word meaning ‘to sit together in conversation at sunset.’ The stone craftsmanship embodies a strikingly modern yet timeless aesthetic, effortlessly blending into various environments.

Designer: Zoe Wilson

In Zoë Wilson’s stone carving “Breath,” crafted from Jesmonite with a Portland finish, delicate overlapping circles form a hypnotic pattern, symbolizing the tranquillity she finds in the creative process.

6. Eco-Friendly Products

Designer: Sarah Christensen

Sarah Christensen utilizes Jesmonite, a popular eco-friendly alternative to resin-based products, along with spent coffee grounds to craft everyday homeware. These materials are combined to create solid objects resembling terrazzo, with each product consisting of 40% coffee grounds and 60% Jesmonite. Christensen’s focus on plant pots, candle holders, and soap dishes encourages indoor gardening and mindfulness while repurposing coffee waste. Additionally, she aims to integrate her homeware into the circular economy by utilizing broken pieces for other purposes, showcasing how coffee can continue to benefit the world beyond its primary function of energizing individuals.

7. Homeware

Designer: Grace

Jesmonite lends itself well to molding into diverse shapes, making it an excellent option for crafting various decor pieces such as trays, cups, jars, and other homeware items. These decorative jesmonite trays blend artistry with functionality. Jesmonite products, composed of a reactive mineral base and water-based acrylic resin, are non-solvent and free of VOCs, making them eco-friendly and versatile for various uses at home.

Designer: Marta

The one-of-a-kind multi-colored terrazzo-style bowl, crafted entirely by me using Eco resin and Jesmonite materials and pastel hues.

8. Wall Relief

Designer: Theodóra Alfreðsdóttir

The ‘Wall Jesmonite Relief’ by Theodora Alfredsdottir is a captivating geometric artwork that seamlessly blends artistry, geometric shapes, and functionality, perfect for interior decor. Crafted from versatile jesmonite with a discreet keyhole for easy wall mounting, it looks stunning in various color options.

In conclusion, Jesmonite is highly versatile, durable, and lightweight, finding extensive use across construction, architecture, and art industries. Its ability to replicate natural materials, along with its strength and durability, makes it an ideal choice for diverse projects and design applications.

The post What is Jesmonite and Why is it Gaining Popularity in Contemporary Product Design? first appeared on Yanko Design.

Reviving Elegance in Design – The Porsche Pepita Edition by Vitra Blends Classic and Modern Mastery

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The Porsche Pepita Edition by Vitra represents a masterful integration of automotive heritage and contemporary design, where each piece fulfills a functional role and also carries a legacy of innovation and timeless design as it finds a place in homes and offices. Vitra’s limited release of iconic chairs, such as the ‘Eames Plastic Side Chair,’ ‘ID Trim L,’ and ‘Petit Repos,’ show the synergy between traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetics. This houndstooth pattern, a long-standing feature in Porsche interiors since 1965, symbolizes a tradition of exceptional craftsmanship and aesthetic finesse.

Designer: Porsche x Vitra Collab

First introduced in the interiors of Porsche vehicles in the 1960s, the Pepita fabric is a distinctive duotone checkered pattern that resembles abstract four-pointed shapes. It is often rendered in black and white, though it can be incorporated through a specific weaving process that interlaces two contrasting colors to create a visually striking and uniquely recognizable broken check pattern. Pepita fabric has become synonymous with high quality and sophisticated taste.

Initially featured as upholstery in the iconic Porsche 911 models, the rarity of Pepita fabric has increased as fewer manufacturers choose to undertake the labor-intensive production of true houndstooth weaves. This scarcity has made genuine Pepita a coveted element in both the automotive and interior design sectors. Vitra’s reintroduction of this fabric through limited edition pieces revives a classic style and maintains its exclusivity, making it highly treasured among collectors. The combination of its limited availability, storied heritage, and intricate aesthetics solidifies Pepita fabric’s status as a rare and distinctive feature across design and automotive history.

In the 1960s, the introduction of the iconic 911, launched in 1963, exemplified Porsche’s commitment to combining performance with sophisticated comfort. The interior design focused on functionality and luxury, resonating with discerning customers through the use of durable and tactile materials like leather and the stylish Pepita fabric for seat coverings. The clean and driver-oriented dashboard design emphasized ease of use and clear visibility of essential instruments, with the tachometer centrally positioned to align with Porsche’s performance-driven philosophy. Subdued color schemes of blacks, greys, and browns dominated, though brighter colors were also available, reflecting personal preferences and the vibrant styles of the 60s.

The unveiling at the ‘The Art of Dreams’ event in Milan highlights the seamless integration of innovation and design excellence between Vitra and Porsche. The collection prioritizes exclusivity, mirroring significant Porsche models and milestones, such as the ‘Eames Plastic Side Chair Pepita Edition’, limited to 1,963 pieces to commemorate the year Porsche introduced the Pepita option in its 911 model. These chairs are more than functional items; they are collector’s pieces that echo the narratives of their creators and pivotal moments in both design and automotive history, celebrating a rich heritage and the evolution of design.

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Odd sustainable stool concept prioritizes minimizing materials over recycling

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The majority of sustainable designs today focus on using responsibly sourced or biodegradable materials as well as the ability to recycle components at the end of the product’s life. While these are indeed a big leap compared to common production practices, it’s still from the ideal. Even sustainable materials like wood, metal, or bioplastics produce material waste that still gets discarded at the end of the production process. And depending on the materials involved, recycling can actually consume more energy and even result in more pollution, offsetting whatever benefits it should have brought. Another approach to sustainability is to actually reduce the materials used and, therefore, the materials that need to be recycled, as what this rather unconventional “two-piece” stool design tries to propose.

Designer: Kitae Pak

The less materials you use for a product, the more products you can make out of that material. If a single 1,220mm x 2,440mm sheet of plywood would normally yield 24 circular plates with a diameter of 310mm, you could potentially squeeze 219 plates with a diameter of 120mm. That’s the kind of increase in yield that the Dots stool concept is claiming, making more efficient use of a material without compromising on quality, at least in theory.

The concept accomplishes this by completely redesigning what a stool is expected to be. Yes, it’s still a piece of furniture for seating, but there’s no hard rule that the seat has to be one large and whole piece. Instead of a single big circle, the Dots stool utilizes two smaller discs to support the body at rest, hence the name. It delivers the same function but at a significantly lower material consumption right from the start.

With this minimalist design, which consists of two wooden rods for legs and recycled plastics to connect the pieces into a stable whole, you can make 4 times more Dots stools than a regular stool using the same materials. This kind of conservation means that the production process itself would use less materials and energy to produce the same number of stools, while recycling would also use less energy and water as well. And since it’s mostly made of wood, the stool can also be repurposed for other designs or returned to the Earth one way or another.

While the design does check all the right sustainability boxes, it does raise questions on conform and stability. It’s arguable that it does serve its function well, but neither its appearance nor its ergonomics inspire complete confidence. It’s not a complete loss, however, as the experiment proved that there’s still a lot of room for improvement even for already sustainable designs.

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10 Most Popular Kitchen Flooring Materials: Their Pros and Cons

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The primary purpose of kitchen flooring is to offer a flat, comfortable surface for walking and standing for extended periods, facilitating easy movement around the space. It’s crucial to choose durable materials that can withstand daily wear and tear, considering that kitchens often require frequent cleaning due to food spills. Here are the top flooring materials suitable for kitchens, emphasizing resistance to heat, moisture, staining, and impact damage to ensure longevity.

Designer: Konga

1. Ceramic Tile

Image courtesy of: dit26978

Pros:
Ceramic tile is crafted from clay and natural ingredients, shaped, glazed, and fired at high temperatures. Resistant to water and stains, it’s an ideal choice for kitchen flooring, also withstanding heat and breakage. While it can last indefinitely under optimal conditions, it may develop cracks and chipping if the top layer wears off. Ceramic tiles are resistant to water and heat.

Cons:
Ceramic tile, while exceptionally hard, may be uncomfortable to stand on for extended periods. Improper installation can lead to cracking and chipping, resulting in the top layer peeling off.

2. Porcelain tile

Designer: Horizon Italian Tile

Pros:
Porcelain tiles, made from baked natural clay at high temperatures and pressure, are exceptionally strong, durable, and long-lasting. Their non-porous surface makes them resistant to stains and scratches. Available in a variety of colors, textures, and patterns, including designs resembling natural stone and wood, they are easy to maintain.

Cons:
The biggest disadvantage of porcelain tiles is that they possess a dense and hard composition, resulting in considerable weight.

3. Concrete Flooring

Image courtesy of: Mint_Images

Pros:
Concrete floors are a highly cost-effective flooring option for industrial-themed kitchens. One of the best aspects of concrete is that it is versatile and can be stained, polished, or can be treated creatively into stylish works of art. Concrete floors are particularly suitable for modern kitchens. Concrete floors are resistant to impact and heat.

Cons:
Due to its porous nature, concrete requires periodic sealing to safeguard against staining and water damage. Additionally, it can feel hard and cold underfoot. Moreover, while concrete offers an urban or industrial aesthetic, its appearance may not be unique.

4. Natural Stone

Image courtesy of: pro_creator

Pros:
Natural stone is a popular choice for durable kitchen flooring, offering various options with distinct properties. Granite is sturdy and versatile, suitable for both tiles and countertops. Limestone adds aesthetic appeal but is softer and better suited for accents. Marble is elegant but prone to scratching and staining. Sandstone offers a soft, multicolored look ideal for kitchens. Slate is durable and sophisticated, lasting for decades with proper maintenance while travertine provides Old World style, though it’s less durable than other options. Overall, natural stone enhances the kitchen’s appearance while ensuring long-lasting functionality. Also, its natural vein patterns provide a unique look, and no two tiles or slabs look alike.

Cons:
Stone installation is time-consuming, involving cutting and handling heavy materials. Its main drawback is its porous nature, making it susceptible to water and liquid stains, particularly in the kitchen. Applying a quality penetrating stone sealer annually can provide invisible protection, but reapplication is necessary at regular intervals.

5. Vitrified Tiles

Image courtesy of: dit26978

Pros:
Vitrified tiles are highly favored as a flooring choice for kitchens due to their numerous advantages. These tiles are renowned for their exceptional hardness, density, and strength, making them resistant to stains, scratches, and acids, which are common in kitchen environments. Available in a diverse array of colors, designs, and sizes, including glazed, full-body, and double-charged varieties, vitrified tiles offer versatility to suit different aesthetic preferences. Moreover, their ability to withstand heavy foot traffic ensures long-lasting durability, making them an ideal option for busy kitchen spaces.

Cons:
The biggest disadvantage is that vitrified tiles can become slippery when wet.

6. Bamboo Flooring

Image courtesy of: bialasiewicz

Pros:
A recent innovation is bamboo flooring which is becoming increasingly popular for kitchens due to its durability and enhanced moisture resistance from the manufacturing process. It offers the look of hardwood with greater durability. There are three types: strand woven, engineered, and solid bamboo, each offering varying levels of durability and cost.

Cons:
The drawback is that this flooring type can vary in appearance based on color, grain, and pattern. Solid bamboo may not be suitable for kitchens with moisture present.

7. Cork Flooring

Image courtesy of: traimakivan

Pros:
Cork flooring seeks to improve the comfort of the user with a soft construction that reduces fatigue and strain from walking and standing during food preparation. This material has a unique appearance that can add to the home’s aesthetic, and it is made from sustainable materials, harvested from the bark of cork oak trees.

Cons:
Cork offers a warm and soft underfoot experience, but it’s less durable than most flooring options and susceptible to scratches and moisture. To prevent staining and water damage, sealing the flooring every one to two years is recommended.

8. Laminate Flooring

Image courtesy of: pro_creator

Pros:
Laminate wood flooring presents an affordable option for flooring, offering a cost-effective means to elevate the aesthetic of a kitchen compared to hardwood. Its superior scratch resistance against regular foot traffic makes it an attractive choice. Additionally, laminate serves as a practical alternative to hardwood floors and is available in a variety of styles and finishes.

Cons:
Laminate flooring isn’t as well-suited for handling moisture, which can make maintenance more challenging when used in kitchens. If you choose to install laminate in this space, it’s essential to employ a proper moisture barrier. Additionally, laminate doesn’t offer the same longevity as hardwood, tile, and vinyl flooring options.

9. Vinyl Flooring

Image courtesy of: studio

Pros:
Vinyl flooring offers numerous benefits specifically tailored for kitchen environments. Its durability, with a lifespan ranging from 10 to 20 years, can be further extended through proper maintenance and careful use. With its water-resistant and anti-slip features, vinyl flooring is an ideal option for moisture-prone spaces like kitchens, offering easy maintenance and effective stain resistance. The softness underfoot, thanks to its foam or felt backing layer, ensures comfort during prolonged periods of standing while reducing fatigue. Moreover, vinyl flooring comes in a wide range of colors and designs, providing options that mimic the appearance of natural materials like stone and wood.

Cons:
Vinyl flooring emits high levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and may have a noticeable odor upon installation. Additionally, it is not resistant to strong chemicals, which can cause permanent discoloration and damage. Outdoor use is not recommended as prolonged sunlight exposure can lead to fading. Furthermore, an uneven subfloor can result in lumps and damage over time, while sharp objects can cause cuts and dents that are challenging to repair.

10. Hardwood Flooring

Image courtesy of: studio

Pros:
Hardwood flooring is known for its durability as it offers good longevity with proper care and maintenance. With a diverse array of styles available, it can suit any decor. It is easy to maintain as it requires only regular sweeping and vacuuming, although it’s essential to avoid wet-mopping and promptly clean up spills to prevent damage.

Cons:
While engineered hardwood is typically more affordable, solid hardwood remains costly. Both types are susceptible to moisture damage, with solid hardwood being especially vulnerable. Moreover, hardwood floors are susceptible to scratches, dents, and photosensitivity, prompting the need for more durable species or alternative materials like laminate or vinyl, especially in sunlit rooms.

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Computer mouse design has to be scratched and deteriorated to show its true self

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We see plenty of designs that try to address one of the computer mouse’s biggest problems, that of ergonomics. Truth be told, however, it’s unlikely that it will change en masse and for good, considering how the horizontal shape of this device has been so ingrained in our consciousness for decades. Of course, that doesn’t mean that there’s no room for experimentation, especially when it comes to adding some value to a traditional mouse design. That can be through its shape, its texture, or even its materials. The latter is something that this curious concept tries to play with, suggesting a computer mouse that you intentionally want to get scratched or quickly deteriorate just so that you can see the secret color or design hidden underneath its skin.

Designer: Liang Yao (苦 口)

Physical products age and deteriorate over time, but those that provide some utility tend to grow old and wear down faster. Not all materials, however, age as gracefully as leather or brass, materials develop unique patinas from their use. Wood can chip, metal gets scratched, and plastic fades or gets discolored. Normally, you wouldn’t want your stuff to even get dinged, let alone scratched, because it then loses its value, but this computer mouse concept is the complete opposite.

“Scratch-off” is a design that adds an extra layer on top of the mouse’s actual design that’s not meant to last forever. Just like those lottery scratchcards, the temporary material on top reveals a prize or a dud when you scratch it off. Of course, you won’t intentionally scratch this mouse’s surface, but it adds a bit of thrill and excitement as you slowly see the hidden design underneath.

This actually brings a lot of opportunities for branding and advertising, with logos or markings hidden underneath the outer layer of the mouse’s surface. Of course, it could be a long burn depending on the kind of material used. After all, it might take weeks or even months before the mouse’s outer cover gets scratched off or peeled completely. In some cases, however, there might even be a marketing gimmick where you intentionally damage the mouse’s surface to reveal some visual gem underneath, hopefully in a safe manner.

The concept, however, does raise the question of the material that should be used to implement this outer layer. It has to be easy to scratch or fade, but not too quickly like some plastic sheet that will defeat the entire purpose of anticipating the product’s deterioration. At the same time, however, it has to be a hygienic material that won’t leave flakes behind, considering how your hand will always be making contact with the mouse.

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