Tag Archives: mirror

Power bank concept is not only ergonomic but even comes with a mirror

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If you’re staying outside your house or office for a certain period of time, it’s almost always required that you need to bring a power bank. Well, unless you’re one of those people who can live without looking at their smartphone (or your device has a lot of juice). But for the rest of us that need our smartphones almost always, a power bank is attached to our bag as well as our devices. We don’t really think about the design of our power banks but some product designers do.

Designer: Anil Ramesh, Arun Kumar, Joel D’silva (Analogy Design Studio)

The folks over at Analog thought about adding a bit more functionality to the power bank and make it easier for users to carry it around. They focused on “usability, portability, and aesthetics”, the latter of which we don’t really think about as long as it gets the job done. But since we probably hold the power banks alongside our phone, it makes sentse to make it look better and also make it ergonomic.

The power bank has an elongated design rather than the normal brick version that most of them have. It actually looks like a cosmetic case and since that’s the look they’re going for, they added a beauty aspect to it. There’s a mirror inside of the power bank so you get another function for it aside from juicing up your device.

The power banks come in various pastel colors and because of the added mirror function, it might appeal more to women or at least those who need mirror on the go and like the color scheme. The ergonomic function will also be useful for those who may have some grip or muscle issues from holding phones for a long time.

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Mirrored tabletop accessories create illusions that have you questioning your sanity

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We put a lot of things on top of our desks, dining tables, and shelves, whether for functionality or decoration. Over time, we get so used to their presence that they become almost invisible, at least until something changes that shocks us awake to reality. Being mindful of the things around us isn’t so bad a thing, especially when it causes you to stop and think, even for a brief moment. Things that give us pause don’t have to be outlandish, loud, or unsettling. They just have to be unusual enough for our minds to be puzzled and stomped. This tabletop collection does that effectively not with sophisticated mechanisms or intricate designs but my simple shapes and materials create an illusion of something that isn’t what it seems at first glance.

Designer: Bo Zhang

Optical illusions work by making our eyes and our brains disagree with each other. Something that isn’t logical but clearly looks that way could send our heads in a loop. Most of these illusions use diagrams and illustrations on flat paper, but there are times when they can also be made with solid, three-dimensional objects. You just need some creative thinking and a devious use of forms, colors, and mirrors.

The Zig/Zag collection is a pair of table accessories, namely a vase and a tray, that sport the eponymous shape. That alone is enough to call attention to them because of their uncommon design, but that novelty doesn’t last really long. A properly placed mirror on the edge of these objects, however, reveals a whole new dimension you might have not seen before, almost literally. The wave that you see reflected on those discs doesn’t seem to be the same one standing before you, definitely not the same color, at least.

Imagine seeing a reflection that is the same yet slightly different. The shape of the vase or tray is exactly the same, and so are the objects that they hold. Everything’s mirrored perfectly as you would expect, except for the color of the tray. Orange is yellow, black is hot pink, and green is pale peach. It’s almost as if you’re peering into an alternate reality instead of looking at a mirror, but in truth, the design is just messing with your head. The secret is actually simple: The “zig” side in front is painted with a different color from the “zag” behind it. Unless you’re looking at the objects from a specific angle, you wouldn’t even know that they have two different colors. Only that mirror reveals this duality in a way that seems mysterious and magical.

Mirrors are often seen as functional objects, but the Zig/Zag tabletop collection design transforms it into an art object. The vase and the tray don’t lose nor gain any functionality, but they do gain new value as aesthetic pieces that straddle the line between form and function. It’s a simple gimmick that urges you to take another look, perhaps to solve the mystery that you never knew existed. It makes your mind zig-zag between reality and fantasy, making you pause and simply enjoy the moment of being there.

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Modular and multi-functional shelf and mirror is an aesthetic addition to your space

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Normally, the shelves that I look for or I actually get have one purpose only: to hold and store my books. And I have a lot, and I mean a lot, of books. But there are times when I want to be able to get something that is also decorative or can be a conversation piece (although that still hasn’t happened yet since I still need for it to just be functional). A lot of designers now are creating ideas, concepts, and sometimes actual products, that can be multi-functional and modular and shelves are no exceptions.

Designer: João Teixeira

Wave is a conceptual design for a shelf that also doubles as a mirror. Even better, it is modular so you can arrange it into different layouts, depending on your need, your preference, or your mood. Just don’t expect a full mirror of course since the shelf part and the shape of the entire thing can be a bit obtrusive. But if you’re just looking for a surface that can hold your books, decorations, and other knick knacks that happens to have a mirror attached to it, then this is something you will be interested in.

Since the concept is named Wave, the shape of the mirror and the shelves is wavy and reminiscient of the letter S. It is modular yes but no matter where you place the different parts, you’ll still get the wave. The renders show that there are around 4-5 parts that you can assemble and play around with, depending on where you want to place the shelves part or if you want it to be horizontal or vertical in orientation.

If what you really want is to look fully in a mirror, you may be annoyed with the way this is designed. But if this gets made into an actual product, those who will buy it will probably just see the mirror as part of the whole design of the multi-functional shelf. You can also probably only just place a few objects on it (most likely not part of my book collection) but again, this is more for the added aesthetics rather than a fully functional piece of furniture.

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This absolutely genius floor mirror flips over into an ironing board to save space

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You don’t need a tiny home to invest in some clever multi-functional furniture. Sure, it helps save money and space when you’ve got a product that serves different purposes, but then again, owning such cleverly designed products is cool too! In collaboration with the esteemed Taiwanese design brand, Unipapa, Medium2 Studio introduces the Flip Dual-Function Ironing Board Mirror, an ingenious solution that seamlessly integrates the functionality of a full-length mirror with that of an ironing board. This innovative fusion addresses the perennial household dilemma of storing bulky ironing boards while adding a touch of elegance to interior spaces.

Designer: Ping-Lun Chung, Fang-Yu Chen, and Yen-Ting Lin

While the concept of a dual-function ironing board mirror isn’t entirely novel, the journey from concept to commercialization for the Flip involved extensive research and innovation, ensuring its practicality for everyday use. The crux of its design lies in what they term the “adjustable span transition.” Balancing the requirements of an ironing board, which demands a broad span for stability, with those of a full-length mirror, which necessitates a compact span to minimize space usage, presented a unique challenge.

To tackle this challenge, they engineered a structure with an adjustable span mechanism. This ingenious feature allows the Flip Dual-Function Ironing Board Mirror to seamlessly transition between its two functions with ease. Whether you’re preparing for a crisp attire with the ironing board or checking your reflection in the mirror, the interconnected structure simplifies the operation, enhancing overall convenience.

One of the most notable aspects of the Flip is its simplicity and practicality. Storing an ironing board is no longer a bulky task but simply a matter of placing it back in its designated spot. This effortless integration of two household essentials into one sleek design epitomizes the ethos of practicality meeting elegance.

Designed for individuals who embrace a minimalist lifestyle and appreciate multifunctional, space-saving objects, the Flip Dual-Function Ironing Board Mirror is a game-changer. Its sleek aesthetic seamlessly blends into any interior decor while offering unparalleled functionality. Whether you reside in a compact apartment or a spacious home, the Flip adds a touch of sophistication while optimizing space usage.

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Top 10 Bathroom Challenges Solved With Smart Solutions

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Designing a bathroom can be challenging due to the need to cater to various functions and utilities such as bathing, plumbing, maintaining a proper slope to prevent water stagnation, storage, and accommodating grooming activities. Here are solutions to some common issues that will help you to solve the bathroom design challenges that you face daily.

Designer: Lusso

Problem 1: Compact Bathroom

Image courtesy of: photocreo

Some bathrooms are so small that making space for a WC, sink, and shower can be challenging. In such an instance you can create a sense of spaciousness by freeing up the floor space and choosing wall-mounted sinks and toilets that are fixed above the ground. This is one of the best ways to give your washroom an open and airy ambiance and it also allows space for versatile storage below the sink.

Image courtesy of: pro_creator

To make the bathroom look more spacious, install wall-to-wall mirrors to bounce light and visually double the space. Also, opt for paint colors such as light shades of blue, pastels, and white in semi- or high-gloss finishes to reflect light and give the impression of a larger bathroom.

Problem 2: No Window

Image courtesy of: LesiaScotch

If your bathroom does not have a window, the space tends to look and feel dim. In such an instance it is important to enhance the lighting design to maximize illumination. Make it a point to integrate both overhead light fixtures and those around the mirror to distribute light throughout the bathroom.

Problem 3: Bad Ventilation

Image courtesy of: dit26978

Ventilation issues are common in older bathrooms despite having windows. Consider installing a shower exhaust fan with a built-in light. This promotes air circulation, dries the bathroom after each shower, and reduces the growth of mold and mildew. As a result, the bathroom stays fresh with minimal mold growth on the shower door. Additionally, make sure to keep the bathroom dry after each shower.

Problem 4: Insufficient Storage

Image courtesy of: Mint_Images

Since small and mid-size bathrooms tend to be cluttered, the most cost-effective and practical bathroom storage solution is to upgrade standard mirrors to cabinet mirrors or medicine cabinets. The best part about these storage cabinets is that they are available in a variety of styles that not only enhance the bathroom décor but the items are not within reach of the children. It is highly recommended to upgrade to a vanity with drawers and cabinets with doors and add shelves over the toilet. This quick and easy conversion makes provision for extra storage for storing toiletries, razors, towels, etc without the hassle of a major renovation of storage.

Explore your storage preferences, from a single drawer to various compartments or open shelves for efficient storage. Extend cabinets vertically if needed and introduce unconventional solutions like baskets, wall shelves, freestanding cabinets, or a ladder for towels.

Problem 5: Underutilized Bathtub

Image courtesy of: pro_creator

Using the bathtub can be difficult, especially for the elderly, so consider removing the bathtub and going for a walk-in shower instead for maximum accessibility. This addition increases floor space, creating a wider drainage area below the rainfall head. For a more refined look, you can bring in body steam for a spa-like addition, and replace the wall panels around the bathtub, without touching the rest of the bathroom tiles.

Problem 6: Insufficient Lighting

Image courtesy of: statuslapa

A dim bathroom can be very uncomfortable, especially without a window. One of the best ways is to brighten the space with a layered approach. Note that the light fixtures ensure adequate lighting for different purposes. Here are examples of each type of layered lighting scheme.

• Ambient lighting illuminates the entire bathroom and some examples of ambient lighting include ceiling fixtures, pendant lighting, and recessed lighting.
• Task lighting creates additional light in specific areas, such as over the vanity or in the shower. Wall lamps or lamps can brighten up specific areas. This light is designed for specific tasks such as shaving, makeup, combing, and hair styling. Light fixtures include mirrors with lights, wall lights, or pendant lights.
• Accent lighting emphasizes a special feature, such as highlighting a particular design or simply placing a chandelier over a soaking tub.

Choose energy-efficient LED downlights in bathrooms, ensure safe lighting in wet areas, and efficient lighting on basins. Enhance the overall atmosphere by placing bathroom wall lights on both sides of the mirror in windowless areas

Problem 7: Humidity and Dampness

Image courtesy of: pro_creator

Fight damp bathrooms to prevent mold and health issues. When showering, leave the windows slightly open for fresh air that replaces the warm and cool air from the indoors. Make sure to clean HVAC ductwork and change filters regularly. Upgrade with air with high CFM-rated exhaust fans or choose a fan/UV light combination for better humidity control. If the bathroom doesn’t have a window, consider adding one for natural light and fresh air. Check your roof periodically for leaks that might be causing condensation within the bathroom.

Problem 8: No Wet and Dry Area

Image courtesy of: pro_creator

If the bathroom does not have a designated wet and dry area, the bathroom can get messy. Note that the wet area has a shower area, while the dry area has a WC and sink. This demarcation can be created with a glass divider that enhances the aesthetic and functional aspects of the bathroom, contributing to a better overall experience. In addition, the frameless screen ensures no visual obstruction and provides a clean, uncluttered view of the bathroom. A temporary and cost-effective way to create a dry bathroom is by using shower curtains.

Problem 9: Stagnant Water

Image courtesy of: pro_creator

When water drains slowly in the shower area, one remedy is to pour a large bowl of hot water into the drain. For a clogged drain, introduce a mixture of one cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar, allowing it to sit for 30 minutes. This chemical reaction effectively reduces scum and completes the process by rinsing the drain with boiling water. Fix slow-draining showers quickly with a drain cleaner that clears clogs from hair, soap, and grime. Use enzyme-based options for a gentler solution, but follow instructions and use safety gear.

Alternately, if your showerhead has low water pressure, it may result from limescale buildup. Tie a packet of equal parts water and vinegar around the showerhead, submerging it for at least an hour, and use a soft brush to rinse the showerhead afterward.

Problem 10: Bathroom Odor

Image courtesy of: puhimec

Blocked drains, wet towels, and accumulated dirt in showers can cause unpleasant bathroom odors. Ensure proper ventilation to eliminate all odors, remove trash regularly, and have a thorough weekly cleaning schedule. Use air purifiers and essential oil diffusers to freshen up the space and make the atmosphere pleasant.

Another DIY method of removing toilet odors is to mix lemon juice with baking soda to make a paste and scrub the surrounding areas with vinegar to soak the toilet in while they are being sprayed on areas with suspicious odors. After 15 minutes, flush the toilet and use a brush dipped in vinegar to scrub off the residue. Flush again, and you’re left with a fresh-smelling bath.

These tips will turn your bathroom into an awesome place. With a little planning and smart choices, you can create a comfortable and functional bathroom with these effective solutions.

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Smart mirror concept encourages you to reflect whenever you look at yourself

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There are many things that we do out of habit in our lives, especially daily activities that we’ve gotten so used to that we could perform them with our eyes closed, at least figuratively speaking. Moving on autopilot is an important survival skill for modern-day humans, but it isn’t always a good strategy to apply to all things all the time, especially for our mental health. The idea of mindfulness or being present in the moment sounds almost so alien that people presume it requires some rigorous training or mental fortitude to do when all you really need is to pause from time to time and simply be aware of where you are and what you’re doing. That’s the kind of practice that this smart mirror product design tries to develop, motivating you to look inside yourself each time you look at your reflection.

Designer: Nahyun Kwon, Dayeong Kim, Mingyeong Chio

We look at a mirror several times a day but only a few of those times are we consciously checking ourselves for more than a split second. Whether we’re brushing our teeth, washing our faces, or even applying makeup, chances are we are thinking of other things while doing those actions. We don’t see or even recognize ourselves or our states, even when it’s directly staring at us.

MIO is a mirror that encourages you to take a good hard look at yourself whenever you use it. Rather than nagging you multiple times a day to pause and exercise mindfulness, it simply associates the action with an activity you already do regularly until it becomes second nature. And it doesn’t do so using intrusive reminders or heavy-handed features but with gestures and controls that are integral to using the mirror in the first place.

https://mir-s3-cdn-cf.behance.net/project_modules/1400_opt_1/03592c187380207.658d8872c64b8.gif

A lever on the side, for example, is needed to turn on the LED lights inside the frame for better illumination. The action and the control’s form are akin to a “thumbs up” gesture, reminding you to give yourself a pat on the back once in a while. There’s a “smile button” on the lower edge of the mirror that you can slide up to start a 1-minute recording of yourself, inviting you to smile your biggest smile or, at the very least, be truthful to the emotions you’re feeling at the moment. That button also acts as a timer for that recording as it slowly slides back down to its original position.

There is a separate circular display near the top and off to the side that shows the time, the weather, or other information you might need while preparing yourself and your face. Cycling through these screens of information requires touching the display, almost like giving it a high-five that, as silly as it might sound doing it by yourself, always generates good feelings. Whichever of MIO’s functions you use, it becomes a gentle reminder to take stock of your current emotional and mental state, at least long enough to see your true self before you rush off and lose yourself in the busyness of life.

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