Top 10 Minimal Gift Ideas For Your Partner With High Value To Uplift Your Everyday Life

If you’re looking for some gift recommendations for your loved ones then they’ve reached the right spot. If you’re searching for something minimal, functional, simple and yet brimming with high utility, then you’re truly in luck, because we’ve curated the ultimate gift guide for you. We’ve put together ten subtle yet high-value products that are designed to elevate everyday life. They offer immense value without drawing excessive attention or occupying too much space. From a portable CD cover player to a pretty Japanese Lantern Candle – these minimal designs are the perfect gifts for the loved ones in your life!

1. Japanese Lantern Candle

This stunning Japanese lantern candle is inspired by a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern. It features a pretty and unique shape and is a welcome addition to your bedroom and bathroom, especially for those days when you need some much-needed me-time and pampering.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59 $69 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, Valentine’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

This lantern candle offers a unique and modern take on an iconic Japanese design. It has a minimal design that lets it artfully merge with any contemporary living space, while also emitting a soft and relaxing glow. It is handcrafted by artisans in Kurashiki, Japan, and is an example of excellent craftsmanship.

What we like

  • The wax is non-melting which offers a beautiful clarity on the candle

What we dislike

  • The lantern is a fire hazard, so must be used and placed around children and pets with care

2. Portable CD Cover Player

Say hello to the Portable CD Cover Player – a minimalist CD player with an attractive retro design that perfectly combines a distinctive listening experience with the impact and beauty of visual art. When you use the Portable CD Cover Player, you don’t need to put your CD jacket or sleeve aside, you can slip it into the specially-designed pocket.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199

Why is it noteworthy?

This unique CD player equates to displaying digital album art, but you also get to display the fact that you own the physical original CD. You get to showcase your physical CD minimally and elegantly, without pulling excessive attention.

What we like

  • Features a portable design with a 40mm full-range speaker and woofer unit
  • Provides 7-8 hours of powerful audio experience

What we dislike

  • It does not support syncing music or playlists with any digital medium

3. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser

The battery-free aroma diffusers let you take a relaxing breath to unwind without causing any harm to the environment. Using this battery-free diffuser you can harness the power of a single candle by utilizing simple science and physics

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser doesn’t need batteries or external power sources to operate. It relies on the heat of a single candle to spread calming aromatic scents. It uses sustainable materials, featuring a minimalist and eco-friendly ethos.

What we like

  • Crafted from recyclable materials
  • Works perfectly with all kinds of essential oils

What we dislike

  • Since the diffuser lacks electric controls, it is tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma, which can be quite inconvenient

4. Aroma Fragrance Pin

Perfumes have been a standard gift for all classes and across all the years for a reason – there is something about a good-smelling person that instantly attracts and creates some chemistry with your partner. The problem is, aerosols fade away and we have an alternative that is unique and innovative as compared to re-spraying yourself with a bottle throughout the day – meet the Aroma Fragrance Pin! Each pin is a tiny holder that can hold a bit of cotton dabbed with your favourite essential oil. The result – a strong yet subtle fragrance that envelops you as you go through the day.

Click Here to Buy Now: $41 $49 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, Valentine’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The pin forms your individual fragrance bubble that follows you and is easily topped up. This is especially useful for those with sensitive noses that get affected/are distressed with the aerosol particles in a traditional perfume application style. The aluminum build gives a well-crafted look to the design, which will make it stand out as you choose your fashion style.

What we like

  • Easy to disguise the pin as a fashionable button-like accessory – with a variety of colours allowing you to mix and match with your today’s style
  • Since refilling only needs an aroma oil, it requires lesser cargo space in your purse/grooming kit.

What we dislike

  • The staying power of the aroma depends on the quality of your aromatic oil, which would require some trial and error as you set up a routine.

5. ASMR Zen Ball

This little ball is called the ASMR Zen Ball, and it fuses natural and engineered elements to create a nifty product that offers a calming, relaxing, and sensory experience to its users.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The ball is built from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy, which allows it to double up as a fidget toy, providing an interactive experience, where users can connect and engage with the natural energy of the earth.

What we like

  • Doubles up as a fidget toy, while also offering utility for sensory stimulation and aromatherapy when paired up with essential oils

What we dislike

  • Besides sensory benefits, the Zen Ball has no practical application on a desk

6. Iron Frying Plate

Dubbed the Iron Frying Plate, this one-of-a-kind kitchen design can be used to serve your food or as a frying pan with a removable handle. You can cook up a delicious storm on it, and then serve the food in it.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Iron Frying Plate is a unique and super cool design that combines both a frying pan and a serving plate. The plate is made using durable materials, and it serves as a functional yet elegant solution for both cooking and serving. It also supports direct-from-the-pan serving.

What we like

  • The plate is a dual-functional product, as the wooden handle can be attached and detached as needed

What we dislike

  • As the frying pan is made from iron, it is heavier than traditional frying pans and can be difficult to store and handle in smaller kitchens

7. Cut & Slice Scissors

Dubbed the Cut & Slice Scissors, this smart and sleek writing accessory features a sliding mechanism that pushes one of the blades ahead, creating a box cutter and giving you that easy edge and smooth cutting experience. No more struggling or using 2 different equipments to open just one package that you receive. Whether you’re gifting yourself, your partner, or having a galentine, this gift is the gift that will be a part of all their future gift-opening experiences!

Click Here to Buy Now: $25 $29 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, Valentine’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The easy-to-use sliding mechanism makes the cutter functionality useful and safe to store when not needed. Also, using the scissors handle as a blade handle gives it a unique ergonomic twist that makes this piece stand apart in the crowd.

What we like

  • The scissor has a mesmerising form, with drop-shaped handles coated in a beautiful transparent resin.
  • The blades are coated with fluorine to keep the sticky residue from building up that we see with prolonged usage.
  • Crafted in the swordsmith town of Seki in Japan, the scissor carries the same attention to detail and expertise these designers bring to their knives

What we dislike

  • There is no easy replacement of the blade that would be useful in case of a fall/bluntness to the scissor tip.

8. The Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Called the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this relaxation-inducing design recreates the smell and experience of a memorable and mesmerizing outdoor fire.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The mini hardwood for the set is collected from branches that were meant to be thrown away, and they emit a comforting smoky smell when burnt on the little stainless steel oven. All you need to do is add a few drops of the essential oils extracted from Mt. Hakusan trees, and you have a wonderful authentic outdoor scent.

What we like

  • By adding a piece of solid wood, the diffuser can double up as a cooking or heating stool

What we dislike

  • The tiny wood pieces can do the most minimal of all cooking

9. Rin Harmony Incense Holder

You can now enjoy the smoky and relaxing aroma of your favorite incense sticks anywhere you go with this pretty little wood and metal holder! It is crafted from natural walnut wood, and functions as a storage space for your incense sticks, as well as a base for burning incense.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199

Why is it noteworthy?

The brass plate functions as a safe space to store the lit stick, while a matching cover allows you to snuff out the flame, while preventing the ashes from flying around.

What we like

  • Simple, minimalist, and dual-functional design
  • A perfect companion for meditation and calming exercises

What we dislike

  • There is only space for one incense at a time, no way to automatically restart or have more incense sticks burning for a longer experience.

10. 0.25 oz Aero Spork

This lightweight metal spork weighs only 0.25oz, and it is intricately and meticulously crafted to ensure that your hands are relatively weight-free during lunch break. The spork is so light, that you can hardly feel it, and your hand won’t feel strained at all.

Click Here to Buy Now: $20

Why is it noteworthy?

But you shouldn’t assume that the spork is fragile, simply because it is lightweight. It features a special anodized aluminum exoskeleton, and it is tough as nails while letting you scoop up and pierce through food. It is strong and durable while maintaining a simple, minimal, and portable frame.

What we like

  • Ergonomic design that lets your fingers rest comfortably
  • The perfect blend of unique and practical design, and minimal aesthetics

What we dislike

  • The spork’s unique design and aesthetics may not appeal to everyone and can be considered odd

The post Top 10 Minimal Gift Ideas For Your Partner With High Value To Uplift Your Everyday Life first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Minimalist Design Gifts to Simplify and Beautify Your Daily Life

I love products that have been designed with minimalism in mind, as they almost always turn out to be simple, functional, and sophisticated. They carry an air of elegance around them while packing a punch with their functionality. They may not have many bells and tassels to boast, but what they lack in extravagance, they make up in utility and authenticity. They provide immense value, without drawing excessive attention, while also managing to capture eyes. And, we’ve curated a bunch of minimal + functional products that we believe will improve the quality of your everyday life, while letting you enjoy simple pleasures. From a portable battery-free iPhone speaker to a portable CD cover player – these minimalistic designs are all you need to add a touch of pure minimalism to your life.

1. Pocket Everlasting Metal Pencil

This Wacom-like stylus is called the Pocket Everlasting Metal Pencil, and it features a tip that doesn’t require any replacing or sharpening. It is a unique and innovative stationery that enables you to focus completely on the creative process, without having to worry about the lead.

Click Here to Buy Now: $17 $20 (15% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

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

What we like

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

What we dislike

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

2. Portable CD Cover Player

Meet the Portable CD Cover Player – this minimalist CD player features an appealing retro design that perfectly merges a unique and distinctive listening experience with the impact of visual art. With this CD player, you don’t need to put your CD jacket or sleeve aside, you can easily slip it into the specially-designed pocket, enabling you to showcase it.

Click Here to Buy Now: $179 $199 (10% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

This CD player is the physical equivalent of displaying digital album art, but with the perk that you also get to showcase the fact that you own the physical original CD. You get to boast your physical CD in a minimal and sophisticated manner, without drawing unnecessary attention.

What we like

  • An incredibly portable design with a 40mm full-range speaker and woofer unit, allowing you to listen to your room irrespective of where it is placed
  • Delivers 7-8 hours of powerful audio experience wherever you go owing to its 1,800mAh battery

What we dislike

  • It is a completely analog style of listening to music and does not support syncing music or playlists with any digital medium

3. Aroma-Fragrance Pin

Meet the Aroma-Fragrance Pin – a simple, compact, and elegant solution designed to let you enjoy the fragrance of your favorite aromatic oils without moving a muscle. These little pins are tiny containers that store a pinch of cotton, onto which you can drop some of the oil.

Click Here to Buy Now: $44 $49 (10% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

Once the oil is dropped in, this effectively diffuses the scent and spreads it around the button automatically; no need to put a container down or hold it in your hand. It’s like your own personal bubble of fragrance that follows you everywhere. The ALMA aroma pin allows you to carry around your favorite scent simply and minimally, without the hassle of bulky perfume containers!

What we like

  • Look like thick buttons, so it is easy to pin them onto your clothes, bags, hats, and more

What we dislike

  • Some might find the pin too discreet, preferring a more noticeable accessory

4. EDC Utility Knife

This simple and sophisticated knife is called the EDC Utility Knife, and it packs a whole bunch of functional details into a minimalist body. It is inspired by the everyday paper cutter and features a stunning all-metal body, amped with a textured knob that allows you to deploy and lock the blade.

Click Here to Buy Now: $67 $79 (15% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

The metal handle is weighted and grippy enough for a comfortable, accident-free cutting experience, and also hides within it a slick metal scale that you can detach and use independently to either cut/draw straight lines or measure linear distances. The knife packs a punch, providing you with utmost utility, in the form of a simple and minimalist design that can fit deftly anywhere.

What we like

  • Features a CNC-machined metal body that’s 8mm thick, and long enough to hold your standard OLFA blade

What we dislike

  • Could have been equipped with a nice lanyard hole or a leather carrying strap, to make it easy to carry around

5. Battery-free Amplifying iSpeakers

This portable battery-free iPhone speaker is an innovative and exciting version of the typical no-power smartphone speaker. Unlike other speakers on the market, it is made using metal, providing you with a product with enhanced functionality and value, setting it a class apart.

Click Here to Buy Now: $143 $179 (20% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

It uses Duralumin, a type of aluminum alloy that’s used in the aviation and aerospace industries because of its vibration-resistant properties and durability. Thanks to this, all you need to do is insert your smartphone into the speaker and feel the sound envelope you from all sides. The choice of material gives the speaker a minimalist and retro style, that adds character to any surface and space, in a simple and classy style.

What we like

  • Electricity-free speaker that doesn’t need any power to use
  • A minimalist and unique aesthetic that is captivating to look at

What we dislike

  • Will not fit with bulky smartphone cases

6. Earth-friendly Tumbler

Have you ever heard of PAPLUS? It is a new kind of thermoplastic resin that mixes biodegradable paper to add durability, heat resistance, and moldability that normal PLA doesn’t have. And this earth-friendly tumbler is built using this innovative material!

Click Here to Buy Now: $21 $25 (15% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

Unlike the artificial smoothness of plastic, the PAPLUS Tumbler’s use of this environment-friendly material creates a unique texture that can be compared to ceramic or wooden cups. Each sip brings not only a wonderful flavor to your tongue but also an engaging sensation to your lips. It has a minimalistic appearance that allows it a subtle and simple appearance on your dining table, kitchen, or even work desk if you like sipping water throughout your workday.

What we like

  • Uplifts the simple act of drinking water to a whole new sensory experience
  • Has a heat resistance of 120°, allowing you to enjoy piping hot as well as ice-cold drinks

What we dislike

  • The natural color does become uneven and fade from use, which may not be liked by everyone

7. Levitating Pen 3.0

Called the Levitating Pen, this good-looking writing accessory is a sleek pen with a Schmidt ballpoint cartridge which makes it easy and sturdy to hold, creating a smooth writing experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $116 $129 (10% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

The Levitating Pen can be positioned in its holder which is magnetized and can be kept floating in that position. You need to give the pen a simple twist, which makes it spin for a good 20 seconds, allowing you to interact with it. The levitating pen functions as an innovative stationery with enhanced utility that occupies minimal space on your desk with a minimal aesthetic.

What we like

  • The pen is easy and sturdy to hold
  • The act of spinning the pen can be a fun stress-buster

What we dislike

  • The pen can easily roll off when placed on a curved surface

8. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser

This battery-free aroma diffuser is one of a kind, as it lets you take in a deep and relaxing breath to unwind without causing any kind of harm to the environment. By using this diffuser, you can harness the power of a single candle, by utilizing the basics of simple science and physics.

Click Here to Buy Now: $211 $249 (15% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser doesn’t need batteries or external power sources to operate. It relies on the heat of a single candle to spread calming aromatic scents. It is made using sustainable materials, hence featuring a minimalist and eco-friendly ethos, allowing it to make a valuable addition to your home.

What we like

  • The diffuser is built from recyclable materials
  • Suitable with all kinds of essential oils

What we dislike

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

9. Japanese Lantern Candle

This beautiful Japanese lantern candle looks much like a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern. It has a unique pillar shape and is essential for your bedroom or bathroom on the days you need some me-time and pampering.

Click Here to Buy Now: $62 $69 (10% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

It offers a modern take on an iconic Japanese design. Besides offering a relaxing glow, it also features a minimal design which allows it to merge with any modern living space perfectly. It is handcrafted by artisans in Kurashiki, Japan, and displays meticulous craftsmanship.

What we like

  • The wax is non-melting which creates a stunning clarity on the candle

What we dislike

  • You need to be careful while using it around children and pets, as it is a fire hazard

10. 0.25 oz Aero Spork

Weighing only 0.25oz, this lightweight metal spork is meticulously and intricately crafted to keep your hands relatively weight-free during your lunch break. It is so light, that you can hardly feel it, so your hand won’t feel strained at all, allowing you to truly enjoy your meal with ease.

Click Here to Buy Now: $17 $20 (15% off at checkout).

Why is it noteworthy?

Being lightweight, however, doesn’t mean it’s fragile. With a special anodized aluminum exoskeleton, it remains tough as nails and ready to scoop up or pierce through food. It packs strength and durability in a minimal and simple design, allowing you to carry it everywhere with you, without straining your hand while you eat.

What we like

  • Created for ergonomics, allowing your finger to rest more comfortably inside the curve
  • Unique and practical design with minimal and beautiful aesthetic

What we dislike

  • The spork’s design and aesthetics may be considered odd by some, and won’t appeal to everyone

The post Top 10 Minimalist Design Gifts to Simplify and Beautify Your Daily Life first appeared on Yanko Design.

McDonald’s uses iconic brown paper bag for order in campaign

Most restaurants would probably have campaigns encouraging you to go and visit their establishment and have a meal inside. But probably for fast food places, they would not like people to linger at their store and take up space. In Norway, McDonald’s customers usually eat their meals at the store or in their cars. So the fast-food chain started a campaign to encourage people to eat their favorite McDonald’s meals in the comfort of their own homes.

Designer: Julie Wilkinson from Makerie Studio

For this campaign that has a very simple tagline “Order in.”, they used something that’s very familiar to those who are ordering food to go: the takeout (or takeaway) bag. The outdoor camapaign features the omnipresent brown bag but hand-cut to show the traditional apartment buildings found in Norway with square and arched windows plus an arched doorway. They wanted to make sure that there was a balance between the iconic look of the bag and an instantly recognizable building.

The hand-cut image was then captured on camera by photographer Catharina Caprino for the campaign and there were no digital touch-ups for this. Everything was done in-camera, including the window light turned on in one of the windows. The minimalist design of the imagery that will be used for the campaign adds to the pretty simple message that they want to convey. The paper bag is already pretty simple so they just needed a couple of elements to complete it.

McDonald’s ad agency in Norway, Nord DDB Oslo, will be populating the country’s major cities with this imagery with the aforementioned tagline. They will be doing it in a pretty appropriate season which is winter. It will be too cold to go out or even eat in the car so they want customers to enjoy their ordered meals in the comfort of their heated homes.

The post McDonald’s uses iconic brown paper bag for order in campaign first appeared on Yanko Design.

Minimalist & Warm Column Kitchen Is A Refreshing Change From The Typical Industrial Kitchen Units

Kitchen units today can be pretty industrial and stark, they tend to be quite unfeeling and aren’t a great option for those who like their homes to be warm and comforting. If you’re someone who is tired of the same old kitchen units and is looking for a breath of fresh air in your home, then you’ve reached the right spot. Meet the Column Kitchen by French designer Inga Sempé.  A minimal and good-looking kitchen unit, the Column Kitchen is designed to be “warm and different”. The Column Kitchen was designed by Sempé for the Danish brand Reform.

Designer: Inga Sempé for Reform

Designed for the Danish brand Reform, the Column Kitchen is a unique and subtle kitchen unit that features rounded-edged surfaces, sides, and handles. The various components of the unit come together to form a column that stretches harmoniously from the top to the bottom of each door. As you look closely at the kitchen unit, you’ll realize that the columns feature a mushroom-shaped profile when it is viewed from the top! This provides the unit with a form that is easily and efficiently gripp-able, while also adding a strong and defined visual identity.

“Industrial kitchens often look the same as home kitchens these days,” said Sempé. “Like a sum of cubes. We are obliged to live surrounded by these cubes, and I’m fed up with it. I just wanted to do something warm and different. Beautiful and rich, but not antipathetic.”

Reform has described the Column Kitchen as “elegant and eclectic”, “chunky yet refined” and “a break with the conventions of the kitchen”, making it an exceptional addition to modern homes. The Column Kitchen unit is available in natural oak, white ash, or four colors of spray-painted ash veneer – Fresh Cream, Pistachio, Concrete, or Dark Umbra. The door and handles of the Column Kitchen can be selected in a monochrome look or mix and matched version, helping you customize and create the kitchen unit that perfectly caters to your personal taste and preference while providing your mundane old kitchen with a new and exciting look!

The post Minimalist & Warm Column Kitchen Is A Refreshing Change From The Typical Industrial Kitchen Units first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 minimal homes for lovers of all things minimalistic

There’s something about Minimalism that simply never goes out of style. And, minimal homes occupy a soft spot in my heart! Minimal architectural designs will always leave you with a warm feeling in your heart, an intense admiration for the attention to detail, and the delicate touches each structure consists of. They’re simple but smartly designed spaces that radiate an aura of warmth and calmness. And we’ve curated some of our favorite minimal homes for you! From a minimal white home with flower petal-inspired walls to a minimalist home on the beach – these exquisite minimal architectural designs make for perfect living spaces that’ll put your mind, heart, and soul at ease!

1. The Vagabundo Flex

The Vagabundo Flex is quite a special and unique tiny home, since it extends over two levels, owing to an ingenious automated lifting system, that improves the comfort and functionality of the dwelling. The tiny home was built using timber framing, wood fiber insulation, double-glazed wood aluminum windows that have been laminated with safety glass, and three-layer fir wood for the interior paneling.

Why is it noteworthy?
The Vagabundo Flex’s innovative and unique design supports the roof in rising to an impressive height of 20.3 ft, in turn creating a spacious interior that occupies 300 square feet. Vagabundo’s ingenious solution is designed to ensure that bulky elements do not disrupt the aesthetics and beauty of the home.

What we like

  • The bulky elements have been smartly concealed in the corners and tucked away in cupboards
  • The tiny home has been amped with all the essential amenities, as well as massive panoramic windows and timber furnishings

What we dislike

  • Heavily priced

2. The Casa Pátios de Pétalas

Created by Portuguese studio Sandra Micaela Casinha Atelier, the Casa Pátios de Pétalas is a clean white and minimal home with an organic shape that is inspired by flowers.

Why is it noteworthy?

The home is marked by curved white walls and was designed for a family with a young daughter. Nestled in the Gondomar neighborhood in the east of Porto, the home is informed by mother nature and utilizes a limited material palette.

What we like

  • The upper story features fluid white rendered walls that bring to mind the image of petals
  • The interiors of the home feature curved walls, that create physical and visual links between the various living spaces

What we dislike

  • There is no option for customization of materials

3. The Strandhouse

Designed by Los Angeles-based architecture studio XTEN, and called the Strandhouse, this Hermosa Beach house is the epitome of minimalist architecture and truly celebrates the beauty of its seaside location.

Why is it noteworthy?

The home was created by the practice founder Monika Haefelfinger and partner Scott Utterstrom as an excellent specimen of beachside living for the coastal Southern California region in a minimalist and contemporary form.

What we like

  • The home is marked by large openings, minimalist aesthetics, clean geometries, and subtle decor work, resulting in a space that feels expansive and spacious

What we dislike

  • The exterior of the home could be considered too boxy for some

4. Mini

Designed by Bologna-based firm STUDIOFEM, this beautiful 484 square-foot home is called the Mini – a name that does it justice quite rightly in appearance, but not in character.

Why is it noteworthy?

The home features a rectangular structure that has been clad in dark brown vertical panels. The box-like form of the home is quite cute to look at it, and the wooden facade gives the home a rather rustic yet cozy look.

What we like

  • The floor-to-ceiling windows help sustain a connection between the interiors and landscape, giving the impression that the inside of the home is larger than it seems

What we dislike

  • Designed to be a rectangular structure, the house does not allow for any exterior space (like a terrace) for the user to have

5. Snowfall House

Located in the Helmos mountains in Kalavryta, Greece is the Snowfall House. Placed on 4000 square meters of land and near the Kalavryta ski center, the intriguing home was designed by Design Over The Norms.

Why is it noteworthy?

The home is blessed with stunning views of the forest, and natural light streams into it throughout the day. It consists of three volumes, with two of them functioning as the base.

What we like

  • Materials such as wood and stone were used in the construction of the home, to perfectly capture the natural rocky textures of the region

What we dislike

  • The home perfectly merges with its natural surroundings, and may not be visible to birds, causing them to crash into it

6. McGee’s Tiny Home

Nestled at the bottom of a rocky hillside, and surrounded by cypress trees and buchus is this lovely little home built by architect Alexander McGee. The tiny wooden cabin occupies 390-square-foot of space and overlooks Muizenberg, one of Cape Town’s best-known surfing spots.

Why is it noteworthy?

The stunning view can be enjoyed owing to the windows seat that has been added to the space. It was designed by architect Alexander McGee and is located next to his South African home.

What we like

  •  No gutters have been added to the roof, and this allows McGee and his family to watch the rainwater run off the roof from different angles

What we dislike

  • The home isn’t sufficient or big enough for larger families

7. Halfmoon Bay Cabin

Called the Halfmoon Bay Cabin, this angular black cabin was designed by Patrick Warren and his husband Kevin Kaufman. The adorable home is tucked away on the Sunshine Coast of British Colombia and is gracefully nestled between trees and merges into the landscape.

Why is it noteworthy?

The home is defined by a covered entry, spacious living space, a steeply sloping roof, and massive floor-to-ceiling windows that create a connection between the indoors and the outdoors.

What we like

  • The beautiful home is inspired by American coastal architecture of the 1970s, like those found on Fire Island in New York and Sea Ranch in Northern California

What we dislike

  • The sloping roof of the design makes it difficult to expand the house

8. Find Sanctuary

Designed by Charlie Hammon, the Find Sanctuary is designed to provide some peace of mind and a safe space for frazzled workers. The cozy and lovely home serves as an oasis for overworked employees who need some downtime, and space to unwind.

Why is it noteworthy?

Hammond then brought to life his idea, ‘Find Sanctuary’. Find Sanctuary is a renewed and revamped version of remote working. It includes a collection of 40 tiny cabins in Big Bear, California that can be rented, providing exhausted employees with an opportunity to work in a peaceful environment and regain some of their composure.

What we like

  • Amped with stunning views of the surrounding mountains

What we dislike

  • Designed to be a space away from work, we believe it should not support a working space

9. The Trakt Forest Hotel

Located in Småland, and designed by Swedish architecture studio Wingårdhs, the Trakt Forest Hotel is a collection of five idyllic suites that are supported by five metal stilts. These suites allow the visitors to feel as if they’re chilling amongst the tree canopies, and are designed to “put nature in focus”.

Why is it noteworthy?

While building the cabins, the studio wanted to create minimal disturbance to the surrounding landscape, and hence they positioned the suites on steel columns placed on concrete plinths. The cabins were constructed using locally-grown wood.

What we like

  • Let’s you chill amongst the tree canopy
  • Constructed using locally sourced wood

What we dislike

  • Deserves a gallery/balcony to improve the experience

10. BioHome3D

The world’s first 3D-printed home built entirely from bio-based materials such as wood flour or fine sawdust, mixed with a binder made from corn was created by the University of Maine Advanced Structures and Composite Center (ASCC). It is called the BioHome3D, and was specially designed to resolve labor supply chain issues that elevate the costs of homes and reduce the availability of affordable housing.

Why is it noteworthy?

The technology used to build the BioHome3D ensures that the home is primarily manufactured off-site using automation, which leads to less time for off-site3 building and setting up the home.

What we like

  • Tackles the issue of labor shortage and supply issue
  • 3D-printed

What we dislike

  • No roof space to allow for vertical growth

The post Top 10 minimal homes for lovers of all things minimalistic first appeared on Yanko Design.

Minimal white home in Portugal is adorned with flower petal-inspired walls

Created by Portuguese studio Sandra Micaela Casinha Atelier, the Casa Pátios de Pétalas is a clean white and minimal home with an organic shape that is inspired by flowers. The home is marked by curved white walls and was designed for a family with a young daughter. Nestled in the Gondomar neighborhood in the east of Porto, the home is informed by mother nature and utilizes a limited material palette.

Designer: Sandra Micaela Casinha Atelier

The organic form of the home is really quite interesting. It houses two storeys, with the glazed lower storey amped with timber slots that provide shading. The upper storey features fluid white rendered walls that bring to mind the image of petals. “The flower petals embrace the entire upper floor,” studio founder Sandra Casinha. “To reinforce their presence, we limit the use to three materials: white [concrete], which draws the petals, aluminum, and glass. Thus, the petals gain more expression.”

The interiors of the home feature curved walls, that create physical and visual links between the various living spaces. As you enter the home, you are welcomed by an open staircase with timber treads that run through the first floor, marking the center of the open-plan living space. The lower storey is segregated by two sinuous curved walls which split the open plan into thirds. The kitchen and dining room occupy one-third of the space, while the living room occupies the central section of the plan. The living room and a curving timber deck are subtly connected via sliding glazed doors. The deck overlooks the lovely garden.

The upper floor of the home houses three ensuite bedrooms. Each bedroom has its own patio, which creates a serene connection to the outdoors. The interiors of the Casa Pátios de Pétalas are also inspired by nature. Earthy tones and textiles dominate the living and sleeping sections, while the walls of the ensuite bathrooms have been clad in jewel-toned red tiles.”In the decoration, you can feel the palette of pastel and raw colors used,” Casinha explained. “[We use] furniture that enhances the tranquility of the place, casual comfort, natural materials, [and] simplicity.”

The post Minimal white home in Portugal is adorned with flower petal-inspired walls first appeared on Yanko Design.

Snøhetta designed these stunning red cedar-clad cabins and placed them on a cliff edge in Norway

Norwegian studio Snøhetta designed four new wooden cabins called ‘Bolder Star Lodges’ on a cliff edge above Lysefjord, near Stavanger. The cabins have been equipped with a “front-row view”, and the panoramic windows placed in the cabins allow residents to enjoy the stunning view. The cabins are designed to be a unique and comfortable retreat for hikers to rest and relax in and truly enjoy their surrounding nature.

Designer: Snøhetta

The project was commissioned by local developer Tom Bjarte Norland. “Initially, [Norland’s] plan was to build a series of smaller hermit huts, but he realized that this natural plot deserved something better, something daring,” Vipp CEO Kasper Egelund. “We wanted to create something that would harmonize with the surrounding nature, playing on the natural shapes in the area and creating a sensation that the cabins are floating in the air, hanging over the edge of the mountain above the fjord,” added Snøhetta project lead Frank Denis Foray.  The four cabins are respectfully called Stylten, Myra, Stjerna, and Eldhuseteach. They have been clad in the same red cedar that is found in the surrounding landscape, allowing them to artfully blend with the nature around them. This also enables the cabins to grey with time, and merge even further with their rocky surroundings.

All the cabins feature an intriguing upside-down design and have been placed on massive concrete pillars, that delicately elevate them. This ensures that the cabins have a minimum impact on the land. They also have a compact footprint – each cabin ranging from 38 to 60 square meters. Wood and concrete were the materials of choice for building the cabins. However, the cabins are prefabricated, and they were moved and placed on the concrete pillars by helicopters to minimize the disturbance to the site.

All the cabins have been equipped with a double bedroom and bath, and an upper storey amped with a kitchen and dining area. The kitchen is quite well-equipped and high-tech. This was designed by Vipp, and in fact, they went for a rather “minimalistic design ethos”, which included the use of materials such as wood, marble, leather, and concrete.

The post Snøhetta designed these stunning red cedar-clad cabins and placed them on a cliff edge in Norway first appeared on Yanko Design.

This minimal IKEA-worthy kitchen with recyclable parts is designed to last a lifetime

Today, almost everything or everyone has gone green, whether it involves wearing clothes created from bio textiles or using gadgets powered by solar energy – sustainability is running high on everyone’s mind, and we’re always using/looking for an eco-friendly alternative to the mass-produced designs we’ve grown so accustomed to. So, why should kitchens be an exception? How about transforming our kitchens into sustainable spaces as well? Seems like Danish startup Stykka comes from the same school of thought since they designed their innovative ‘LoopKitchen’.

Designer: Stykka

“In order to transition to a more sustainable way of consumption we need to make products that are designed for circularity that can be repaired and hence prolong the lifespan of the products,” said Stykka. Crafted from birch plywood, LoopKitchen is a minimal and contemporary kitchen designed with recyclable parts, in an attempt to increase its lifespan. Although LoopKitchen is built primarily from birch plywood, the kitchen fronts can be finished in birch as well, or a Forbo linoleum which is available in 20 colors.

Now, how has Stykka managed to increase LoopKitchen’s lifespan? The solution is simple yet ingenious. Each physical manifestation of LoopKitchen has a digital twin! This is basically a visual representation of the product. Each digital twin is linked to the actual LoopKitchen and can be accessed via a QR code located beneath the sink. The owner has to simply scan the QR code, and since the digital twin is linked to Stykka’s online maintenance platform, Stykka is instantly informed which front or part of the kitchen needs to be replaced. Hence, owners can replace parts of LoopKitchen once they are worn out or damaged, and Stykka simply recycles or reuses the broken-down bits. In fact, you can also exchange the kitchen’s old parts for new colors, if you’re looking for a bit of a change! Stykka utilizes a digital manufacturing platform to manufacture the kitchens on a “print to order” basis, which basically means that kitchens are produced only once they are ordered, hence eliminating the risk of overproduction and excessive waste.

Another intriguing feature of LoopKitchen is that Stykka has only placed a single wall between cabinets, instead of having a double wall, as is seen in most kitchens. “With this simple move we saved more than 15.8 percent of materials,” said Stykka. In a world where excess is valued, and everyone’s always trying to go overboard and outdo each other with their possessions, the LoopKitchen is a refreshing furniture design that lays immense value on minimalism and recyclability. Designs like the LoopKitchen are the future of contemporary kitchens.

The post This minimal IKEA-worthy kitchen with recyclable parts is designed to last a lifetime first appeared on Yanko Design.

Minimal furniture designs to add a calming + zen aura to your living space

A beautiful piece of furniture can complete a room. It can be the final piece that makes a space come full circle, building a comfortable and cohesive haven, rather than a random area. Furniture pieces make or break a home, they add on to the essence or soul of a home, hence one needs to be extremely picky while choosing a furniture design. The design should be a reflection of you, and what you want your home to be. When you place a piece of furniture in a room, it should instantly integrate with the space, creating a wholesome and organic environment. We’ve curated a collection of minimal furniture designs that we believe will do this! Each of these pieces is unique, well-crafted, and made with a whole lot of love, and the love really shines through in the fine detailing and workmanship. We hope you feel the love too!

1. The Diag Desk

The Diag Desk is a minimalist, modern desk built to optimize desk space while incorporating storage elements like removable leather compartments. When it comes to desks, the simpler the better. Desks that are rooted in simplicity, either through a minimalist approach or by embracing Scandinavian aesthetics, typically offer a lot of practicality while maintaining a stripped-down design.

Why is it noteworthy?

Considering its minimalist build, more space can be devoted to the desk’s tabletop, where most of the desk’s purpose is reserved. The Diag Desk from Polish designer Marek Błażucki is one kind of minimalist design that integrates storage systems into its build, ensuring that users have ample desk space while still keeping their necessary stationery within arm’s reach.

What we like

  • Integrates ample storage systems into its build
  • Ensures stationery doesn’t fall off

What we dislike

  • There are a lot of visually similar desks on the market

2. Acrobat

Acrobat is a multifunctional storage piece that combines the safekeeping components of an entryway table with the hanging function of a coatrack.

Why is it noteworthy?

As we continue to downsize our living spaces, the more multifunctional our furniture is, the better. Smaller spaces don’t necessarily have to mean less living space. Multifunctional furniture helps make more room for living while taking care of a lot of our household tasks. We usually have our own system of arranging EDC items like key rings, wallets, and phones. Entryway tables and coat racks usually take the brunt of those organizational needs, so finding multifunctionality in their design is key to keeping our homes decluttered. Acrobat, a multifunctional coat rack designed by João Teixeira, combines the storage components of an entryway table with those of a coat rack.

What we like

  • The metal tube tops can also be used to hang clothes or hats without the need for a hanger
  • The wooden hull that interlinks the beams offers a safe space to store EDC items like wallets, phones, and keyrings

What we dislike

  • Can occupy a substantial amount of space

3. Midea’s Smart Bedside Table

There is an attempt to put a mini-fridge in a position that doubles as a bedside table, but that’s mostly to conserve space, especially in hotels. Midea’s Smart Bedside Table admittedly doesn’t go that far, but it has thrown in everything else that it says is related to bedroom activities. Or at least the ones that will help you sleep more comfortably.

Why is it noteworthy?

The bedside table’s main functions are supposedly for air purification and humidification, something that’s not directly apparent when looking at the beautifully minimal piece of furniture. The “sub-functions,” however, are where things get a bit more out of hand. There’s a hidden wireless charging area on top of the table, but only near the front. The rear area of that surface actually flips open to reveal low-temperature storage with just enough room for a bottle or a few cans. The front area actually does open up to a UV sterilizing compartment for your gadgets or jewelry. There’s also a USB hub, aroma diffuser, and, thankfully, a bit of lighting.

What we like

  • Quite an attractive design with its wooden body and clean design
  • The front area op up to a UV sterilizing compartment for your gadgets or jewelry

What we dislike

No complaints!

4. Non Square

Introducing Non Square, the team of designers explains that, “It [pursues] the beauty of irregularity within, as opposed to regularity on the outside.” From the outside, Non Square sports a minimalist, stainless steel appearance that seems like a nondescript side table dressed as a cube. A closer look and Non Square’s larger purpose is revealed.

Why is it noteworthy?

Functionality typically stems from a product with a long shelf life and the ability to execute its primary purpose. Adding their design to the mix, Hyunjun Yu, Soojin Jung, Kyoungseo Park conceptualized Non Square, a furniture set that integrates side tables and stools within a stainless steel hexahedron structure.

What we like

  • Hidden storage compartments
  • Modular design

What we dislike

  • The product’s bulky + metallic aesthetics may complement only certain living spaces

5. Faucet Light

Faucet Light is a minimalist light fixture design that mimics the look of water droplets forming beneath a faucet’s spout.

Why is it noteworthy?

We’ve each suffered through the monotonous drip of a leaky faucet at some point. It’s like clockwork and we can’t do anything about it but stare and wait for the plumber. Industrial designer Jaewan Park must have found some inspiration during the waiting game as his new lamp design resembles a kitchen sink faucet and the bulbous water drop that forms beneath its spout. Aptly dubbed the Faucet Light, Park’s new light design finds practicality and an artful design through subtle details and joyful aesthetics.

What we like

  • Features a glossy base to emulate the look of ripples on a still pool of water
  • Faucet Light maintains a slim body to fit atop most tabletops, even crowded work desks

What we dislike

No complaints!

6. The Cloth Coffee Table

Characterized by its curved bookstand that works as the table’s centerpiece, the Cloth coffee table’s curvy personality is echoed throughout its build. The bookstand also finds a balance between boldness and elegance, offering a weighty centerpiece that helps ground the coffee table, without dominating the available tablespace. Featuring softly bold elements like an undulating table edge that mimics the look of a live edge, the Cloth coffee table keeps a dynamic profile without dominating the room.

Why is it noteworthy?

Doing minimalism before it was cool, Japanese and Scandinavian share a lot of common design principles, including a focus on warmth, groundedness, and a subdued color scheme for an overall calming effect. With aim of merging these principles together to design Cloth, Teixeira hoped to find a “balance between boldness and elegance, depending on the angle.”

What we like

  • An artful blend of Japanese and Scandinavian design philosophies
  • The curved bookstand is a distinguishing feature

What we dislike

  • Weighty/bulky design

7. Hidden

Hidden is an unconventional litter box conceptualized to be inconspicuous by design and fit into any modern home. The hardest part of owning a cat has to be taking care of the litter box. Cats mostly fend for and take care of themselves, but we’re in charge of the litter. Litter boxes aren’t designed for aesthetics, so cat owners usually have to find inconspicuous spots to keep the litter box out of sight and out of mind.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s never a cute look to have a litter box in the bathroom or even the basement, but our cats gotta go when they gotta go. Designers with the studio YUPD took it upon themselves to conceptualize a litter box called Hidden that’s discreet by design, so it can be placed anywhere in the house.

What we like

  • Discreet design
  • Inspired by interior design elements

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept!

8. Storm Lamp

The beauty of the Storm Lamp by Julia Kononenko is that there isn’t any method to its mad design. The lamp comes with a variety of laser-cut wooden panels that can be arranged/oriented in any way you like because as its name suggests, the Storm Lamp is all about beauty in chaos. Looking almost like an abstract tornado, the lamp is entirely made from flat pieces of laser-cut plywood that are either left plain or painted black.

Why is it noteworthy?

When assembled together, they create a 3D form using the Gestalt visual law of continuity. Moreover, the jagged edges themselves illuminate to look like chaotic lightning strikes, reinforcing the product’s inspiration!

What we like

  • The lamps are available in both hanging and floor formats
  • The jagged edges themselves illuminate to look like chaotic lightning strikes

What we dislike

No complaints!

9. Solar

MyZoo, a cat goods company, designs modern cat furniture that caters to your cat’s every need, while not disrupting your interior design. Solar, one of their more recent designs, is a wall-mountable floating cat bed that mounts onto any vertical surface so cats rest midair in their own designated space.

Why is it noteworthy?

Shaped like the sun, Solar is a small, but sturdy floating cat bed that’s built from pinewood. In a similar fashion to their other pieces of cat furniture, MyZoo lined Solar with a slotted resting platform for safe jumping. Ideal for small spaces, Solar provides a resting spot and jumping platform for your cat and saves space in the meantime.

What we like

  • Solar doesn’t take up any ground space and easily mounts to any wall where there’s room
  • Easy to assemble

What we dislike

  • There’s no cushioning on the bed, which would make it comfier

10. The Tie Stool

The Tie Stool’s beauty lies in its sheer simplicity – not just design but also materials. The stool comprises three bent plywood strips that conveniently lock into each other, creating a tripod form that you can easily sit on. The design could easily expand to accommodate more strips to create a 4-legged (or even 5-legged) stool, but the dynamic nature of having a tripod format really gives the Tie Stool its appeal. I don’t know about you, but I can’t unsee the Google Drive logo in the stool’s design!

Why is it noteworthy?

Fabricating the Tie Stool would require a few simple steps. The three plywood strips can, in fact, be split into 6 total parts (you can see the parting lines). The individual parts are formed using high pressure and temperatures that cause the plywood to bend and retain its shape, and cutting/finishing processes are performed on the parts to make them interlock into one another.

What we like

  • The entire stool can potentially be flat-packed and shipped to customers
  • It’s stackable

What we dislike

No complaints!

The post Minimal furniture designs to add a calming + zen aura to your living space first appeared on Yanko Design.

This adjustable phone stand’s Memphis-inspired design even has space for storing a charging cable

The Memphis 2.0 design movement was all about visualizing designs through a geometric lens. Nothing was normal, everything was simple geometry that intersected or interacted with each other. Products were fun, graphics were vibrant, and everything was eye-catching until minimalism came and took over. Hold The Phone, however, holds onto the sheer beauty of Memphis 2.0 with its blockish design language.

Created by the folks at Boem, Hold The Phone is part phone stand, part statement piece. With its simple yet bold design, Hold The Phone does exactly what it says it does, while also hiding a trick up its sleeve. The phone stand is made up of 3 elements – the stand itself, a slab-shaped piece of plastic, with a small cylindrical lip at the bottom to hoist the phone up, and a large cylindrical element at the back that props the entire structure upwards at an angle. This large rear cylinder slides upwards and downwards, adjusting the angle at which your phone rests, giving you the ability to tilt your phone at virtually any angle you need. Moreover, that large cylinder is actually hollow on the inside, allowing you to use it to store items like cables, thumb drives, SD cards, and any other tiny items you’d otherwise end up losing!

Designer: Boem

The minimalist Memphis phone dock (which looks like a percentage % sign, btw) lets you set your phone at a wide range of angles, thanks to the sliding rear cylinder. The rear cylinder sits on a simple rail and notch system, allowing it to slide up and down in a step-less manner. A friction fit ensures your cylinder stays at the angle it’s been set at, so your phone’s weight doesn’t throw it off-kilter.

If you want your own Hold Your Phone, even though it isn’t available traditionally, you can buy the 3D file for 8.90 ($9.35) and print as many of your phone stands as you want! Feel like taking things further? How about editing the 3D file and integrating a wireless charger into the stand too?!

The post This adjustable phone stand’s Memphis-inspired design even has space for storing a charging cable first appeared on Yanko Design.