Tag Archives: YD Design Storm

10 Best Innovative Designs To Boost Your Mental Health & Relaxation

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Life can get hectic nd work can be super exhausting, which can be brutal for our mental health. Taking care of our mental well-being has never been more essential, considering how chaotic life can get. As much as we tend to pay attention to our physical well-being, it’s time to do the same for our mental health. Meditation can really help you unwind, release stress, and create an overall tranquil mindset. Although if you’re anything like me, sitting still without a single thought in your head can seem damn near impossible! Hence we’ve curated a collection of innovative gadgets to help you master the art of meditation, or simply take care of your mental well-being.

1. Japanese Lantern Candle

Called the Japanese lantern candle, this unique little candle is inspired by the Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern and is amped with an intriguing pillowy shape. The lantern is a must-have for your bedroom, helping you unwind after a long day at work, and letting you relax.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The lantern candle offers a contemporary and lovely take on an iconic Japanese design, and it features a minimalist design that allows it to effortlessly merge with any modern living space. It radiates a relaxing glow, which helps you feel at ease, and enter a meditative state.

What we like

  • The wax is non-melting, it forms a lovely clarity on the candle

What we dislike

  • The candle is a fire hazard, so you need to use it carefully around kids and pets

2. Decima

Called Decima – this timer has been designed specifically for meditation. Much like any timer, you need to set the duration of the time, and the interval of the reminders. And unlike typical analog timers, you can set the bell tones, volume, and brightness of the display. It even has a guided mode to show you how to do things.

Why is it noteworthy?

This timer provides various functions through easy-to-use buttons on the sides and the top of the device. It also includes an LDC display on the front which shows the time, and other useful info like the current mode or setting you are in. The LED lighting shines through the front grille.

What we like

  • The device looks quite visually interesting
  • You don’t need to use your smartphone for a timer

What we dislike

  • It is a concept, so the final product may differ

3. ASMR Zen Ball

Called the ASMR Zen Ball, it merges natural and engineered elements to form a space-inspired design that offers a calming and relaxing experience to its users. The tiny product features a meteorite-inspired porous surface which serves as a great absorbent surface for your aroma oils.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The Zen Ball is made from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy, which lets it double up as a fidget toy, creating an interactive experience, where users can connect with the natural energy of the earth.

What we like

  • Functions as a fidget toy, which offers sensory stimulation

What we dislike

  • The ball could get rolling due to accidental bumps when not attached to its base

4. Stress-Free Aroma Diffuser

Called the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser, this little diffuser lets you sit back and relax while breathing in an excellent mix of aromatic blends. It can soothe your mind, and help you meditate and unwind after a long day at work. You can play some calming music, and relax with the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

Why is it noteworthy?

It lets out a gentle breeze, which disperses the aroma evenly and lets you relax. The diffuser is equipped with a porcelain filter which absorbs the oils to offer a long-lasting experience.

What we like

  • The base is polished and provides an interesting contrast to the organic-looking porcelain disc, letting it function as an elegant decoration piece

What we dislike

  • Looks easily breakable and fragile, so it must be handled with care

5. Mendi

Called Mendi, this product is designed to be gym equipment for your brain. It trains your brain and also measures your progress along the way for you. It helps you be mindful, manage stress better, and also elevates your mental and physical performance at work, or while playing some sport.

Why is it noteworthy?

Mendi is designed to sit on your head, looking like a slim and nifty headband. It is equipped with a bunch of sensors under the sleek exterior, and it can be used to measure brain activity, oxygenation, and blood flow as well. You can pair it with an app, to help you go through various brain exercises.

What we like

  • Tracks your brain’s activity, and helps you use your mind by engaging in focus-building games

What we dislike

6. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Called the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this diffuser recreates the lovely experience of a pretty outdoor fire. It captures the various scents, and smells of a memorable outdoor fire, but within the comfort of your own home. You can enjoy a fire without using a massive outdoor fire.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The wood for the diffuser is collected from branches that were initially meant to be thrown away. It provides a distinct warm smoky smell, creating a calm and relaxing environment for users.

What we like

  • The diffuser can be used as a heating or cooking stool

What we dislike

  • Needs small pieces of wood, can’t be used with larger pieces of wood

7. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser

If you feel like meditating or unwinding, then you need to get your hands on the battery-free aroma diffuser. With this diffuser, you can take a deep and relaxing breath without actually harming the environment. As you use this battery-free aroma diffuser, you can harness the power of a single candle.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser doesn’t need any batteries or external power source to operate. You can use the heat of a single candle to spread the lovely scents. It is made from sustainable materials, and features a minimal and eco-friendly design philosophy.

What we like

  • Made from recyclable materials
  • Compatible with all kinds of essential oils

What we dislike

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

8. Rin Harmony Incense Holder

Called the Rin Harmony Incense Holder, this incense holder lets you enjoy the smoky aroma of your favorite incense stick. It helps you calm down, irrespective of where you are. It is made from natural walnut wood, and also functions as a storage space for the incense sticks.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199

Why is it noteworthy?

It serves as a safe space to hold the lit stick, and even has a matching cover that lets you snuff out the flame, while ensuring the ashes don’t fly around.

What we like

  • Serves as a dual-functional design with a minimal form
  • Excellent companion for your calming exercises and meditation

What we dislike

  • Only one incense to be lit at a time, so the reach of the aroma is limited

9. Hsu’s Lamp

lamp

This innovative lamp was designed to be more than just a source of illumination. It was designed to be an appliance that helps you establish and maintain a healthy sleeping pattern. It includes recommended light levels for varied pre-bedtime activities such as watching TV, meditating, or even reading.

Why is it noteworthy?

You can adjust the lightness/darkness through the lamp, helping you wind down easily after a long day at work. You can also set up a timer for when you want the light to go off.

What we like

  • The lamp is flexible – it can be used during the day as a desk lamp as well

What we dislike

  • It is a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

10. VOL.

Called VOL., you can wear this smart high-neck color anywhere and everywhere when you need some privacy and personal space in a public setting. You can wear the collar every day, or as and when needed. You can also wear it as a simple collar or cowl, and it is described as “comfortable, stylish, and easy to use” and based on the photo renders, it seems to be that.

Why is it noteworthy?

When you need some privacy in a public space, or if you need to evaluate your current mental health status, you can instantly zip up the collar, and get a temporary break from the chaotic outside world.

What we like

  • Equipped with a microphone to help you communicate with someone at the moment

What we dislike

  • Users may feel conscious wearing it in public, but it will take some time to get used to it

The post 10 Best Innovative Designs To Boost Your Mental Health & Relaxation first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Durable & Stylish Metallic Furniture Designs For Clean Contemporary Living

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There’s something about metallic furniture that is completely undeniable. Although metallic furniture wasn’t always considered the ideal fit for residences and homes. The first piece of metal furniture dates back to 1820, and it was a round three-legged table designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel of Berlin. With time this genre of furniture took over industrial buildings, outdoors/streets, and the kitchens of restaurants. However, it broke through its industrial and utilitarian stereotypes and eventually found a place in interior design by the 1950s. Today metallic furniture can be found in many homes and offices, since it is durable, strong, and functional, and can be finished in multiple ways. And, we’ve collected some excellent metallic furniture designs for you – from a coffee table inspired by the simple shape of a safety pin to a unique shelf that attempts to preserve your work-life balance.

1. Morph Chair

Named the Morph Chair, this metallic furniture piece was designed by Jiung Yun and Minji Kim for some quiet contemplation, since our everyday lives can become quite chaotic and busy. The subtle Morph Chair is designed for those moments where you really just need to take a break and relax for a bit.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is created for moments of peace, allowing you to take a break, and rest on it. The chair serves as a space of calmness, enabling users to organize their chaotic worries and thoughts, taking down their stress a notch or two.

What we like

  • Features an integrated storage section beneath the seat, which can be used to store books and other miscellaneous items

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics can be dull and stark for some people

2. Foundation Bar Stool

The Foundation bar stool is a stunning stool designed by the American brand Bestcase to be a beautiful celebration of the rawness of aluminum, and the simple manufacturing techniques used to construct it. It is part of a collection that was made entirely from aluminum sheet material.

Why is it noteworthy?

The stool is equipped with scaled-up sheets bent through a technique traditionally used to add structure and solidity to thinner materials. This quality showcases aluminum’s structural and decorative traits, displaying how durable and strong it can be.

What we like

  • Celebrates the exceptional material properties of aluminum

What we dislike

  • It is only available in aluminum, no other option in material

3. Camber

Camber is an innovative collection of seats that are created by cutting and bending a single sheet of stainless steel. The design involves making two angular cuts where the folds would happen if you would just bend the two ends to form legs.

Why is it noteworthy?

Camber is simple, almost brutalist in its appearance, but its appeal goes beyond looks, offering a design that isn’t only efficient but also, in some odd way, charming in its own right.

What we like

  • The two angular cuts give the chair and stool some stability
  • Simple, functional, and efficient design

What we dislike

  • Stainless steel is not the most environment-friendly metal

4. Tablecloth Side Table

Designed by Deniz Aktay, the Tablecloth side table is designed to create contrasting images of stability and fluidity. The Tablecloth has only three legs instead of four, which truly makes it stand out. It features a metallic surface which offers it a rather rigid appearance, while the curved edges create an illusion of movement.

Why is it noteworthy?

The shape of the legs is unique as well, they taper sharply to the feet, creating an image of dynamism of even imbalance in our heads. The table is shaped like a tablecloth, but it seems to be in motion rather than rest, truly creating an innovative image in front of our eyes.

What we like

  • Resembles the waves and undulating surfaces of a piece of cloth that looks like it’s falling to the ground

What we dislike

  • It is a conceptual design, so unsure how well it will translate into a tangible product

5. The Tila Chair

Named the Tila Chair, this innovative and unique chair design by Shepherd Studio is made using hundreds of shiny spheres and is intended to be an exploration of density. It features a one-of-a-kind form that instantly grabs attention and makes it a conversation starter.

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique-looking chair is partially inspired by the traditional game of marbles (also called Tila), and truly the chair is built using 210 stainless steel spheres that are supported by a tubular frame.

What we like

  • Has an attractive chrome finish that reflects the chair’s surroundings
  • Creates a visually intriguing interplay of light and shadow

What we dislike

  • The tiny spheres seem tough to clean and maintain

6. Criteria Bookshelf

Named the Criterion bookshelf, this unique metallic shelf is designed to act as a figurative and literal separation between work and rest. The bookshelf merges two different parts of shelves for different parts of the day, serving as an innovative and super functional furniture design.

Why is it noteworthy?

One shelf is a typical shelf that stores books, stationery, and desk accessories, while the opposite end has limited space, as well as lighting that will be quite useful at night.

What we like

  • It is a multifunctional furniture design
  • Great at helping you maintain a work-life balance

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, unsure how well it will translate into a physical product
  • The shelf has a quirky form and shape, so it could be difficult to place/fit it in your room

7. Whisk Coffee Table

Named the Whisk Coffee Table, this furniture design by Deniz Aktay is made of an artfully shaped and twisted metal tube which serves as the major body of the design, making it an immediate and major eye-catcher, and conversation starter.

Why is it noteworthy?

The metallic form of the coffee table is simple yet twisted, reminding you of a whisk, which is probably why Aktay named it the same. If you look closely at it, it also looks like a contorted safety pin!

What we like

  • Built of interesting geometric elements that perfectly complement each other
  • Fine specimen of sharp form and metallic excellence

What we dislike

  • The actual product could differ after manufacturing since currently, it is only a concept

8. Non-Square

Called Non-Square, this metallic furniture piece has a minimal and stainless steel aesthetic, which makes it look like an ordinary side table dressed up as a cube. As you look closely at the side table, you realize it has a deeper purpose.

Why is it noteworthy?

Designed by Hyunjun Yu, Soojin Jung, and Kyoungseo Paek, the Non-Square is a conceptual furniture design which perfectly merges side tables and stools in the form of a stainless steel hexahedron structure.

What we like

  • Hidden storage compartments
  • Modular design

What we dislike

  • Bulky & space-consuming design

9. Strap Furniture Collection

Named the Strap furniture collection, this outdoor furniture collection is inspired by the 1970s poolside furniture. Called the Strap furniture collection, it involves 11 seating designs such as benches, stools, armchairs, loungers, and stackable chairs. They bring the 1970s charm to your backyard.

Why is it noteworthy?

The metallic chairs are made from aluminum straps, which seem to be quite tightly wound around simple tubular frames. The furniture pieces draw inspiration from the designer’s childhood memories of sun loungers around the local pool.

What we like

  • Takes you on a trip down memory lane, evoking childhood nostalgia
  • Not only limited to your backyard, can be used even in university campuses, shopping districts, and other urban spaces

What we dislike

  • The aesthetics  definitely need some work and innovation, as they are a bit dry and boring

10. 4-AL Stool

Designed by Vienna-based Paul Matteo Wesser, the 4-AL stool is designed to be a fine specimen of eco-friendly furniture. Not only does it showcase eco-friendly practices, but it also redefines how we perceive and utilize repurposed materials. It shows us how sustainable furniture can be made from repurposed elements.

Why is it noteworthy?

Wesser repurposed metal balcony cladding elements and converted them into the stool’s main structure. An aluminum profile was selected for the frame, which showcases a devotion to stability durability, and water resistance.

What we like

  • Inspired by coastal architecture
  • Showcases the potential of repurposed elements in modern design

What we dislike

  • It is currently only a prototype, not a final product

The post 10 Best Durable & Stylish Metallic Furniture Designs For Clean Contemporary Living first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Medical Designs Innovating & Upping The Healthcare Industry

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When it comes to taking care of our health, proactive action and a mindset of preparedness are always necessary. By taking the right precaution, and being prepared always, we can handle a medical emergency to the best of our ability. And the medical industry has been coming up with ingenious innovations, that are completely transforming the healthcare game. Designers have been coming up with new and improved, life-saving medical designs that not only boost medical care but also relieve some of the pressure from our tireless medical force. From an award-winning inflatable stretcher design to a prosthetic foot that achieves human-level flexibility – these innovations are upping the medical arena.

1. Cast21 Cast

Chicago-based startup Cast21 created a unique sleeve that fits over any hand! The cast takes the perfect shape around your hand, once filled with a patented gel which then hardens. A sleeve size is selected depending on if the patient is a child or an adult. The sleeve is then slipped on, and filled with a patented mixture of resins which form a malleable gel after a certain point in time. The doctor can also adjust the gel to ensure it perfectly fits the limb. You can even choose different gel colors, giving the cast a less serious look.

2. Pinsoft

Named Pinsoft, this James Dyson National Award-winning design is essentially an injection attachment that helps people who are afraid of needles or Trypanophobia. It is placed around an injection and is equipped with multiple round-tipped prongs that confuse the skin as needles prick through it. This creates a gentle stimulation that distracts the mind, so you are unable to differentiate between the touch of the prongs and the needle.

3. SoftFoot Pro

Designed by the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), the SoftFoot Pro is a prototype prosthetic foot designed to be a literal and metaphorical leap forward in the world of prosthetic design. The foot replicates the structure and movement of the human foot. Unlike the conventional prosthetics which often focus on sturdiness or provide minimal flexibility, the SoftFoot Pro is equipped with an ingenious design that offers human-like foot flexibility and agility without any motor, servo, circuit board, or battery.

4. The Wearable Mobility WIM Robot

Designed by WIRobotics, the WIM mobility assist wearable device is created for young consumers to walk and exercise better with a new age technique. The Wearable Mobility WIM robot is designed for those who suffer from issues with their legs, and have problems walking long distances. But the wearable is also great for those who work out for long hours in the gym, strengthening their lower body.

5. Inflatable Stretcher

Meet the Inflatable Stretcher – a truly innovative medical design. Designed by Yu-Hsin Wu, a student at Taiwan’s Shih Chien University, this stretcher is intended to be an incredible upgrade to the typical stretcher. The stretcher can be used to carry patients from the site of the accident to the hospital in a pretty safe manner. The stretcher cushions and protects the patient in the same manner as you would wrap someone in bubble wrap.

6. Samsung Galaxy Ring & Watch

Recently Samsung unveiled its latest wearables – the Galaxy Ring and the new Galaxy Watch lineup which includes the Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Galaxy Watch 7. Both have been jam-packed with amazing features to ensure you are always healthy and connected, irrespective if you’re into sports, or simply trying to improve your everyday wellness. A standout feature of the Ring is the Energy Score – which measures seven health metrics relating to sleep, heart rate, and activity. Wellness Tips are also provided based on your health data.

7. Augmented Limb

Called the Augmented Limb project, this innovative design offers astronauts an extra limb, helping them move around with ease in zero gravity. The limb is inspired by how animals like monkeys move around in 3-dimensional space, utilizing their tails as extra limbs, as well as the motion of reptiles like snakes, or even dinosaur tails when it comes to structural integrity and rigidity. The Augmented Limb is essentially a tail-like limb that can be attached through a backpack-like contraption.

8. MedEasy

Named MedEasy, this cleverly designed medicine box is intended for the elderly. It serves as a dependable everyday companion for the older generation, assisting them in keeping track of their medicines and managing them. A lot of the senior citizen will live, and deal with loneliness, and this product helps them to focus on their health and well-being, letting them take better care of themselves, and making sure they don’t miss any meds.

9. Transcutaenos Oxygen Sensor

This wearable medical device was designed by Deokhee Jeong, and it helps patients who are suffering from any kind of disease related to peripheral capillaries like peripheral arterial disease (PAD). When it comes to these diseases, it is quite important to take proactive action and to take good care once identified. This device keeps a check on the early signs by measuring skin oxygen levels. It is wearable and named the Transcutaneous Oxygen Sensor.

10. Wethm

Named Wethm, this compact device forms gentle vibrations of a train ride to slow down the thoughts in your head, and this is known as cardiovascular synchronization. The accessory is quite simple and effective, and it utilizes soft and gentle sounds to lull your mind and body to sleep. This device provides a peaceful and calm state of sleep. It uses soft buzzing to gently wake you up, helping you feel fresh and recharged.

The post 10 Best Medical Designs Innovating & Upping The Healthcare Industry first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Kitchen Tools You Need To Master The Meticulous & Delicious Art Of Japanese Cooking

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Are you someone who loves Japanese cuisine? Is a bowl of hot steaming ramen or some fresh sashimi your go-to meal?! Well, then you’ve reached the right spot. As delicious as Japanese food is, preparing it takes a lot of care, finesse, and attention to detail. And if you want to master Japanese cooking, or well at least be able to prepare a decent bowl of donburi, then you need the right kitchen tools to assist you. We’ve curated a collection of ingenious and well-designed kitchen tools that are essential if you’re preparing some Japanese meals. From a precision ceramic sashimi knife to a portable bento box-style rice cooker – these are the must-have kitchen products you need to cook up some delicious Japanese food!

1. Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife

Named the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife, this sleek and stunning kitchen tool defines Japanese craftsmanship and perfection. The knife was built with advanced technology and utmost care, forming an exceptional tool that enhances the culinary art of preparing sashimi.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299.00

Why is it noteworthy?

Using the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife, you can cut through delicate pieces of sashimi with complete ease, without causing any damage to the soft pieces of fish. The knife works with complete ease and precision, amped with a lightweight and sharp blade. Since it is made from ceramic, it doesn’t need sharpening consistently.

What we like

  • You can slice and prepare sashimi with the finesse of an expert Japanese swordsman
  • You can prepare delicate and aesthetically pleasing dishes

What we dislike

  • Fragile as compared to steel knives
  • It can be tough to sharpen if the need arises

2. Supreme Daikon Radish Grater

Meet the Supreme Daikon Radish Grater – a meticulously crafted grater created for those who appreciate fine kitchen tools. The grater is excellent for grating daikon, and it features a 1.5mm thick stainless steel grating surface that is durable and easy to maintain. The Daikon Radish Grater is equipped with traditional Hon-Meguri diagonal sharp blades and innovative Quattro blades.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Supreme Daikon Radish Grater offers an effortless and stress-free grating experience. Each grater is crafted by skilled Japanese artisans, and each one is a masterpiece of the traditional Hon-Meguri technique. It is a time-honored method that includes using a sharp chisel (tagane) to carve each blade into the thick metal plate.

What we like

  • Features exceptionally sharp and durable blades

What we dislike

  • Might not be efficient for other veggies

3. Mt. Fuji Cutlery Rests

This lovely cutlery set is inspired by Japan’s most iconic summit – Mt.Fuji. This cutlery set serves as a luxurious metal accessory to amp up your Japanese-style meals. They have a simple form with detailed and intricate engravings. They’re lavish tableware accents, created with fine craftsmanship.

Click Here to Buy Now: $219

Why is it noteworthy?

The cutlery isn’t just a flat block of metal, the pieces slope slightly upwards towards the middle, creating a flat stump at the peak, instantly reminding you of Mt.Fuji. The curves are also excellent for supporting knives, forks, spoons or chopsticks.

What we like

  • The pretty cutlery also captures Japan’s seasons of yielding cherry blossoms
  • Created as a tribute to Japanese craftsmanship

What we dislike

  • The cutlery set can only hold two utensils, a limited design

4. PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs

Meet the PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs – these innovative kitchen tools are shaped like chopsticks and are great for preparing Japanese meals with speed and efficiency. You can pick up small pieces of food with complete ease, while also allowing you to prepare small, well-balanced meals for multiple people.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Chopstick Tongs are a great option for creating bento boxes or even eating sushi, which are popular Japanese food items. The tongs are also pretty easy to hold and use.

What we like

  • Built from sustainable SUS821L1 stainless steel which is derived from scraps and offcuts

What we dislike

  • The tongs aren’t great for picking larger pieces and cuts of food

5. Ishiyaki Set

Named the Ishiyaki Set, this kitchen appliance allows you to create an authentic and surreal Japanese dining experience in your home. You can prepare food in true teppanyaki style! The set functions as a tabletop stone grill, and you can prepare the meat just the way you like it.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Ishiyaki Set recreates the Benihana experience in your home, and you can dry-sear your food before you eat it. It is equipped with a board with an additional porcelain tray to hold your food, as well as two bowls to hold your soy sauce and wasabi, creating the ultimate modern teppanyaki experience for you.

What we like

  • Creates the Benihana-style teppanyaki experience to your home
  • Ideal for dry-searing sashimi-style seafood like Tuna, Salmon, or Scallops, or meats like beef

What we dislike

  • Bulky, space-consuming design better suited for homes with loads of space

6. The Stacking Sake Drinkware

Drinking Sake is extremely common in Japanese culture, whether in social settings or at formal ceremonies. The Stacking Sake Drinkware is an unusual sake drinking cup made from authentic tin – serving as a unique and distinctive drinking cup set. Tin is a good material choice as it absorbs impurities and purifies water.

Click Here to Buy Now: $299.00

Why is it noteworthy?

Tin is truly the perfect material choice for cold sake, as it provides a soft and comfy texture for hands, allowing you to handle the glass with ease, while also making the sake taste smooth and mellow.

What we like

  • The bowl-shaped vessels can be stacked easily on top of each other
  • Elegant and pleasing aesthetics thanks to their smooth curves

What we dislike

  • Stacked pieces might topple easily

7. Rassen Chopsticks

Designed by Nendo for Hashikura Matsuskan, these unique chopsticks are called the Rassen (spiral) chopsticks, and they’re great for consuming Japanese food. The chopsticks are the perfect culmination of fun and functionality – the chopsticks form one single unit when combined, and they can also be pulled apart when needed.

Why is it noteworthy?

Bringing the chopsticks together and then separating them feels like you’re playing with a jigsaw puzzle. Using the chopsticks becomes a fun and interactive experience, bringing joy to your daily meal. And since you can easily combine the pair, you never have to live in fear of losing one!

What we like

  • The chopsticks are whimsical and functional
  • They’re handmade by artisans

What we dislike

  • Since the design is new and novel, it can take some time to get used to using them

8. Plate Grater

Named the Plate Grater, this small product looks like a tiny plate and can be used on the table. You can use the grater to grate fresh garnishes and ingredients into your meal. You can even use it to prepare some fresh wasabi to accompany your sushi. The product combines the functionality of a plate with a grater.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

Why is it noteworthy?

It is equipped with dual functionality and is quite an aesthetically pleasing design. You can elevate your basic meal with some fresh garnishes.

What we like

  • An excellent design grating fresh ingredients onto your meal, and adding a gourmet touch

What we dislike

  • It may take a while for users to adjust to it and use it

9. Hinoki Essence Cutting Board

Called the Hinoki Essence Cutting Board – this stunning wooden cutting board is great for a hassle-free food-cutting experience. The board is made from the hinoki cypress, and it has a medium hardness which offers resistance without damaging knives. The cutting board has a minimal and appealing appearance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The cutting board has a simple yet lovely look, and since it is made using cypress wood, it pairs up perfectly with the Precision Ceramic Sashimi Knife.

What we like

  • Made from Hinoki Cypress Wood which isn’t very harsh on knives
  • Features a water-resistant silicone coating which prevents damage

What we dislike

  • You need special care to maintain it, which can be tedious

10. Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker

Named the Thanko Electric Bento Rice Cooker, this portable cooker prepares a bowl of warm rice for you whenever you need it. It features a compact and portable size, and cooks single-serve rice in a short amount of time. Once your rice is ready, the light glows.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cooker is excellent for those who like to travel often and need a fresh bowl of rice for dinner. You can prepare six ounces of rice in one go, and it has a measuring cup for convenience.

What we like

  • Features a portable and easy-to-carry design
  • The rice can be eaten straight from the container

What we dislike

  • Lacks a variety of choices in sizes and colors

The post Top 10 Kitchen Tools You Need To Master The Meticulous & Delicious Art Of Japanese Cooking first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Cutting-Edge Earbuds Alternatives To The AirPods

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I love a good pair of earbuds! In fact, I really can’t function without my personal earbuds. Once my earbuds are in, the rest of the world is out. I deep dive into the world of my favorite tunes, away from real-world problems, happy in my own little audio bubble. Hence, owning a pair of innovative and perfect earbuds is an absolute necessity for me, and I’m sure that’s the case for most music lovers out there as well. Quite a few of us are Team AirPods all the way. Let’s remember that great earbuds go beyond Apple as well. This nifty list includes all of them. This collection of exciting designs has a pair of earbuds for everyone. These earbuds provide unique design solutions and are a must-have for audiophiles.

1.BD-1

Say hello to BD-1 – a pair of conceptual TWS earbuds that have been modeled on Teenage Engineering’s OP-1 synthesizer. The OP-1 synth became quite popular when it was used in the Swedish House Mafia’s first music video. The BD-1 mimics the same design cues, and it is quite boxy and white, with colorful ear tips that match the colors of the OP-1 synth. The earbuds come in a case with a small AMOLED display like the one found on the OP-1.

2. Flex Open Earbuds

JLab has created an open clip style earbuds design quite similar to the Bose Ultra Open earbuds seen at CES 2024. The new earbuds design at CES had a price tag of $300, and they attracted a lot of attention. JLab’s version is called the Flex Open Earbuds and they provide the same features as the high-end earbuds, but they’re much more economical! Priced at $50, the open-ear accessory is a must-try for anyone who loves experimenting with new audio accessories.

3. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds3 Pro

Samsung recently introduced its latest audio devices called the Galaxy Buds3 and the Buds3 Pro. The new earbuds have been created to uplift and enhance your everyday audio listening experience, irrespective if you’re home, working out, or simply on the go. It is amped with nifty and handy features, and it also showcases a refined design, which has something unique and appealing for almost everyone.

4. Immortal 121 Earbuds

Designed by boAT Lifestyle, these TWS earbuds have been shaped like Deadpool’s mask. The Immortal 121 earbuds are equipped with cutting-edge features, packed in an incredible package that costs only USD 20.35. The Deadpool earbuds offer 40 hours of playback, 40 milliseconds of latency, Bluetooth 5.3, adjustable EQ, IPx4 water resistance, and a game-changing 10-minute charging time so you’re never out of energy!

5. Gravastar Sirius P5 Buds

Named the Gravastar Sirius P5 buds, these super cool earbuds have charging cases inspired by the futuristic genre. They have names like Defense Armor, Defense Mecha, and Defense Crystal. The earbuds are made from either zinc alloy or a“ LEGO-like material prized for strength and rigidity”. The cases have a pretty distinct character and are quite appealing to fans of particular subsets of the sci-fi genre.

6. The Cell Buds

Designed by Minwoo Kim, the Cell Buds are an incredible evolution of the earbuds into a wearable that helps the blind navigate through crowded spaces, or be aware of what’s going on around them with the help of sound cus. The buds are amped with nano camera units that keep track of important information. This removes the need for transparency mode to keep an eye on your surroundings, or in situations where strong ANC is needed.

7. The Logitech G Fits

The Logitech G Fits are quite similar to the Ultimate Ears’ UE Fits earbuds which are equipped with the Lightform feature. The features make the custom molded fit possible. The G series earbuds have a feature list that is great for gamers and power users. The pill-shaped earbuds when inserted into the ear canals urge the user to push a button so that the gel tips harden with flashing LEDs, occupying the ear’s canal shape in a 60-second setup.

8. Bored Buds

Called the Bored Buds, these earbuds concept are intuitively designed and also meant to be multi-functional. The earbuds also form part of a Bluetooth speaker. When you’re not listening to music using earbuds, they are tucked away in the speakers through the protective case, and they function as control buttons. The speaker does not have any interface or displays, so the earbuds function as your on/off, pause/play, and volume up/down buttons.

9. The Nothing Ear (Stick)

The Nothing Ear (Stick) is a new case design for the Ear (1) buds, but unlike the old design which is square-shaped, this one has the same shape and size as lipstick, or if you’re looking for a more mundane term then a nebulizer. However, we are unsure if the earbuds within the Ear (Stick) are the same old earbuds or new ones. However, this new SKU will receive a new revamping in the form of a spec upgrade.

10. Quite Comfort Earbuds II

Called the Quite Comfort Earbuds II, these earbuds by Bose take Apple head-on. They’re claimed to be the “world’s best noise cancellation”, and they are quite notice-worthy. The earbuds are one-third the size of their predecessors, and are equipped with better ergonomic comfort and fit. They call it the Fit Kit. They come with the Custom Tune sound calibration that were seen earlier in the SoundControl hearing aids.

The post Top 10 Cutting-Edge Earbuds Alternatives To The AirPods first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Plant-Friendly Designs For Gardening & Plant Enthusiasts

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Gardening is an extremely therapeutic activity, and though I may not engage in it all the time, the few times that I have, I found it delightful and soothing. Growing, tending to, and being surrounded by plants is intensely satisfying. All your worries slowly fade away, and you are simply enthralled by nature. Indoor gardening has become one of the major trends these days! Plants can truly transform a living space with their gentle presence. They add a touch of green and nature and create a serene and zen atmosphere. But tending to them is not always the easiest task! You must pay special attention to your beloved plants and give them the best care to ensure they grow well. And, we’ve curated a whole collection of product designs to help you with that! From a wearable that lets your plants communicate with you to LG’s latest indoor gardening appliance – these products are all, you need to create a nurturing environment for your plants and ensure they grow beautifully!

1. LG tiiun

Called the LG tiiun, this unique home appliance allows you to grow your own herbs and veggies. It is an indoor gardening appliance that is sized like a dorm refrigerator and is 3 feet tall. It is equipped with two shelves, which can store up to 6 all-in-one seed packages, and various seed kits. It keeps your veggies super fresh!

Why is it noteworthy?

The LG tiiun is designed to be an all-in-one self-sufficient garden. It creates the perfect microclimate and conditions for your plants to grow successfully. It even replicates light cycles, allowing you to keep the tiiun anywhere in a room without having to stress about whether it has access to sunlight.

What we like

  • You can grow veggies and herbs in the comfort of your home
  • Simple and fun experience even if you haven’t gardened before

What we dislike

  • The form is a bit too bulky for homes with space constraints

2. Grovemade Hardwood Planters

Designed by Grovemade, these cups, planters, and dishes are created the old-school way and have been carved from solid maple or walnut. The planters are pretty functional, adding a touch of green to your work desk, while also being quite aesthetically pleasing. The planters score high on looks and utility.

Why is it noteworthy?

The various pieces are hand-sanded and finished with a clear vegetable-based oil that highlights the natural warmth, elegance, and beauty of the wood. The collection includes cups, dishes, and planters in a variety of different woods

What we like

  • The planters are available in a wide range of metal and material options

What we dislike

  • The aesthetics are a bit mundane and boring

3. Green Hideaway Chair

Named the Green Hideaway Chair, this DIY living plant chair is designed by Stockholm-based studio Front/ in collaboration with European DIY chain HORNBACH and its creative agency HeimatTBWA. This lovely chair lets you connect with nature, adding some green to your home, without actually leaving your house.

Why is it noteworthy?

DIYers of all skill levels can build this simple chair, as it is accompanied by illustrated, step-by-step instructions, a template, and a whole list of tools and materials needed. Everything is simply spelled out for you.

What we like

  • Makes nature accessible to you in your own home

What we dislike

  • A bulky and space-consuming design, so you need to make sure you have sufficient space to add it to your home

4. ACQUAIR

Meet the ACQUAIR design – a smart humidifier and air purifier which merges technology and nature in an aesthetic and good-looking design. ACQUAIR is essentially two products in one – it is a smart humidifier and a pot for a single-stem plant. Both the parts share the same water tank that nourishes the plant, and sprays moisturized mist.

Why is it noteworthy?

The spray is determined through sensors, and by adjusting the mist depending on the temperature and the amount of humidity. Human intervention isn’t needed except to refill the tank every once in a while.

What we like

  • The humidifier also has aesthetic value, it serves as a simple yet elegant pot

What we dislike

  • The concept isn’t detailed enough to show us how the device’s features keep the plants alive beyond just water

5. Ocean Sun Plant Light

Called the Ocean Sun Plant Light, this design is more than just your ordinary USB-powered work light. As the name suggests, it is equipped with a calibrated set of LEDs that radiate a light similar to the light from the sun. It is created for indoor plants which don’t get a lot of natural light.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Ocean Sun Plant Light offers your plants the right spectrum of light to facilitate photosynthesis and foster growth. But unlike the sun, it features a compact size, and can fit into the palm of your hand! It has a sleek and small form with a precisely machined aluminum outer shell.

What we like

  • Features high-end flicker-free LEDs
  • Compact, easy-to-carry form

What we dislike

  • We are unsure how well plants would grow in this light

6. Planpet

Meet Planpet – a smart plant pot concept that builds a personal connection between humans and plants. The design offers the plant a face and changes the way we see it. It features a glass cube on one end, with an actual hole for the plant. The cube isn’t some excessive feature, but it is a holographic display.

Why is it noteworthy?

The holographic display features a miniature 3D representation of the plant, and it actually has an expressive face. The user can pick a virtual character, which perfectly resembles the type of plant being put in the pot. The virtual plant can also change facial expressions based on real-time soil, and environment analysis.

What we like

  • The plant reacts when you give it light or water, or if you forget to look after it

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we are unsure how well it will translate into a tangible product

7. Paradise

Named Paradise, this automated plant cultivator and compost bin is designed to reduce domestic waste. It is equipped with integrated technology, prompting users when the plants need to be looked after. It looks like a rolling cart and includes modular pieces that work well together to offer optimal conditions for growing plants.

Why is it noteworthy?

Paradise was designed by Robin Akira, and it is intended to be a household plant cultivator with integrated compost bins and an odor-sealing lid to reduce the domestic waste produced in our homes.

What we like

  • Integrates greenery into our interior spaces
  • An odor-sealing lid

What we dislike

  • Could be messy to have such a product in our indoor living space

8. Kosumi’s Wall Organizer and Mess-Free Planter

Kosumi’s Wall Organizer and Mess-Free Planter can be assembled like LEGO building blocks. It features base grids that can be attached to the walls with 3M strips, which need hardware or tools in the process. You form the basic grid on the chosen vertical surface, and then you can stock it with over 20 different modules.

Why is it noteworthy?

The multi-functional and organizational WFH design helps you create your own wall organizer and planter, allowing you to build a magnetic and modular garden that can be mounted on any vertical surface.

What we like

  • Impressive storage space
  • Entirely recyclable

What we dislike

  • We’re not too sure how long the plants would last in such an ecosystem

9. Jungle

Named Jungle, this intriguing planter is designed by Poland-based KABO and PYDO design studio. You can hang the planter from the ceiling, allowing it to function as a semi-flush mount light fixture. This good-looking indoor garden is inspired by the form of biophilic design.

Why is it noteworthy?

Jungle is made up of a few parts, and its true beauty lies in its simplicity. Jungle features a bulbous, capsule-shaped centerpiece, and it is designed to be a half-planter and half-light fixture. It is capsule-shaped and radiates a warm golden light which is diffused with an opaque body.

What we like

  • It features a simple form which allows the beauty of the plants to shine through
  • Radiates a soft and soothing light

What we dislike

  • You need to stand on a stool or small ladder to water the plants

10. BioCollar

Called the BioCollar, this wearable is designed by students at the Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design. It helps build empathy between the wearer and the connected plant. Once the wearable is connected to a piece of hardware that goes into the planter, it helps you understand the plant’s needs better through some real-time feedback.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is designed to be a component of a larger system called the BioPermit – which is a service that utilizes the collar to test if prospective plant buyers are good caregivers. It is a speculative system, and it is designed to convert plant needs into real-time haptic feedback.

What we like

  • Lets the plant easily communicate its needs to you

What we dislike

  • The wearable doesn’t look very comfy to wear

The post 10 Best Plant-Friendly Designs For Gardening & Plant Enthusiasts first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Car-Based LEGO Builds For Automotive Lovers

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Building LEGOs was something I loved as a child. I could spend hours putting together intricate and mesmerizing LEGO builds, that did have the potential to fall apart in mere seconds. However, LEGO is no longer simply considered child’s play. Masterbuilders and creators spend days and weeks building precise and astounding LEGO creations that will truly blow your mind away. And, this collection of LEGO designs is dedicated to cars! We’ve put together a collection of exquisite and finely detailed LEGO builds inspired by cars. These creations will have motorcar aficionados drooling at the mouth!

 1. LEGO Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 Performance Set

Meet the LEGO Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 Performance Set – one of the latest additions to LEGO Technic’s collection of motorsports replicas. The build is a 1/8 scale model that you can build piece by piece using 1642 individual LEGO bricks. The LEGO model is 13 cm tall, 63 cm long, and 26 cm wide. It features a stark black color, leaving the carbon parts unpainted, which cuts down on some weight.

2. LEGO McLaren P1 Hybrid Super Car

 

LEGO Technic just built a 1:8 scale model of the McLaren P1 hybrid supercar, amped with loads of details inside out. It features a 3893-piece format, and it has a price tag of $449. The detailed 3.8-liter V-8 piston engine is paired with a seven-speed transmission with 2 shifter paddles, adjustable rear spoiler, functional suspension, and working dihedral doors. The LEGO build was created in association with McLaren Automotive to mimic even the smallest of details to perfection.

3. LEGO Batmobile

Designed by TaeYang Lee, this LEGO Batmobile draws inspiration from the movie’s fascinating rollercoaster plot. He used Mecabricks, a LEGO modeling tool to build this amazing build. The creation is much like the on-screen Batmobile, and it is based in a dark and gloomy world, with a sinister environment. The Batmobile has a matte black color, with toughened wheel rims, and a reinforced bumper build for the kill.

4. LEGO Bentley Blower

The Bentley Blower is one of the icons of pre-war racing elegance and power, and LEGO is paying tribute to its 100th anniversary and infamous design. The LEGO Ideas Bentley Blower is designed by LEGO builder ‘N.ik.Le.go.’, and it perfectly captures the old-world charm of its powerful predecessor in a scaled-down and compact form. This LEGO MOC is made using 707 bricks, and is pretty uncomplicated compared to the other LEGO builds.

5. LEGO Peugeot 9X8

LEGO builder Brick-A-Brac celebrates Peugeot’s 9X8 and built his own LEGO build of the 9X8 supercar. Made using 1320 parts, the car measures 20 inches long. It is equipped with an extraordinary amount of detail and has all the branded graphics on its body. It has a sleek design, commendable size, and loads of attention to detail, making it a must-have gem for LEGO + car enthusiasts to have!

6. LEGO McLaren F1 Car

Meet the LEGO replica of the 2021 season Formula-1 car. It is really quite jaw-dropping and is nine times the size of the collectible LEGO version which was quite a hit. The 1:1 LEGO variant is at another level altogether and requires a lot of time and effort to be built. It took 1893 man-hours to put the 288,135 LEGO bricks together, creating a 5.7-meter-long, 2.4 meter-wide structure.

7. LEGO FedEx Iconic Truck

This LEGO FedEx iconic truck was made using LEGO bricks to celebrate FedEx’s 50th anniversary. The company has a workforce of around 500,000 employees, as well as a fleet of 700+ aircraft, and 200,000 vehicles. This incredible LEGO build pays tribute to the company. It is white in color with a FedEx logo on the front and the side. It also has a diamond-shaped DOT hazardous chemical flip sign on the front.

8. LEGO McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna

The LEGO form of the McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna was added to the LEGO Speed Champions and Technic lineup. It serves as a stunning tribute to Ayrton Senna – an undisputed legend of motor racing. The set includes 693 pieces and has a Senna Minifigure on the podium, with the winner’s trophy, and a plate engraved with the photo and quote. McLaren is next to him in power mode.

9. LEGO Back To The Future Time Machine

Meet the LEGO Back to the Future Time Machine! This one is better than ever and more detailed. It includes a Flux Capacitor light brick, gull-wing doors, and printed dashboard dates. You can add the different equipment from the different parts of the movie – including the lightning rod from the first film, and the hood-mounted circuit from Part III.

10. 10321 Corvette LEGO Icons Set

This adorable little 10321 Corvette LEGO Icons set pays tribute to the first-ever Vette which rolled out on June 30, 1953. It has a beautiful build accentuated with a bright red exterior, which perfectly displays the original key details of the real version. These little details include the hard or open-top configuration, opening hood, and the truck that accommodates the V8 engine replica with a spinning radiator fan.

The post Top 10 Car-Based LEGO Builds For Automotive Lovers first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Stationery Products To Assist You In Your Art & Design Projects

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

1. Pen Fan

Named the Pen Fan, this innovative stationery product is an intriguing cross between a Pantone shade card, and a stationery set. The Pen Fan features 8 different flat-head sketch pens and is packed in a compact, portable set that is easy to carry anywhere and everywhere.

Why is it noteworthy?

The various flat pens are interconnected, creating a cute little Japanese-fan-style layout that proudly showcases all 8 colors, letting you pick and choose from them. The pens are detachable, and you can easily snap on and off the pens, to create a palette that caters to you.

What we like

  • It is a portable set that you can carry anywhere with you
  • You don’t lose your pens very easily

What we dislike

  • There are only 8 color options, which can be a bit limiting

2. Royi Stationery

Called Royi Stationery, these stationery designs are unlike anything we’ve seen before. The designs all have stories to tell, and they aren’t just regular old staplers and hard disks, they’re see-through, showcasing what is inside them. The stationery set is based on the tale of the naked king, whose obsession with vanity, leads to his downfall.

Why is it noteworthy?

Royi Stationery intends to capture this thoughtful ideology in its designs. The collection includes an everyday stapler with an intriguing twist. It is see-through, allowing a glimpse into its inner workings. You can see the staple punching through the papers, which is quite cool.

What we like

  • The stationery designs are a reminder to be honest and open
  • Adds a thoughtful and intriguing twist to regular stationery products

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept so we are unsure how well it will translate into a tangible product

3. MagBoard Clipboard

Named the MagBoard Clipboard – this innovative stationery design is flexible and functional. It is a unique notepad/clipboard hybrid. The Clipboard makes use of a magnet and lever mechanism that holds your sheets safely in one spot. The notepad is excellent for writing down your thoughts and ideas.

Click Here to Buy Now: $45

Why is it noteworthy?

The MagBoard Clipboard is a one-of-a-kind accessory that revamps the ordinary notepad. It enables users to tailor and elevate their note-taking experience, without the usual hassles of a typical notebook.

What we like

  • Has a lightweight and compact form that makes it easy to carry around
  • The papers are held safely and securely by magnets and levers

What we dislike

  • Best used with specific sizes, which may not suit everyone’s needs

4. Aestus

Aestus is a limited edition signature pen that features a really unique form. The pen looks like a compact little lightsaber at first glance, but plenty of fountain pens look like they’re straight from Star Wars. The pen is built from high-grade stainless steel and features two geometric shapes that convert the hexagon profile into a circle.

Why is it noteworthy?

The pen is quite sophisticated and features a ceramic docking unit where the pen can be stored when not being used. A layer of cork is placed in the upper part and the base. The pen’s design and the docking unit offer a luxurious and regal vibe.

What we like

  • Gives a luxurious vibe to a stationery design

What we dislike

  • Isn’t yet available for commercial purposes
  • Will probably be pretty expensive

5. Gravity Pen

Named the Gravity Pen, this innovative pen is designed to be the ultimate sidekick to carry with you. It places the center of gravity closer to your fingers, forming a harmonious and seamless writing experience, making the pen quite easy to hold, and make strokes with. The pen has a pretty big grip, larger than the barrel.

Click Here to Buy Now: $45

Why is it noteworthy?

The grip has a faceted form, making the pen easy to hold, while providing a more stable grip. The Gravity Pen has a super ergonomic design since it was designed using the smart application of physics and minimalist design principles. It is a no-fuss and no-nonsense stationery design!

What we like

  • Features an ergonomic form making it quite easy to hold
  • Lightweight and durable body that is easy to carry around

What we dislike

  • There isn’t a variety of color options to choose from, limited choice of product

6. The OZ Stationery Collection

The OZ Stationery Collection is a creative effort to rejuvenate an overlooked market. The unique collection was designed after studying the stationery market to find a distinctive niche in an industry that is already quite populated and saturated. The OZ Stationery is designed to cater to the creative demographic.

Why is it noteworthy?

The intention behind the OZ Stationery is to form a collection of personal stationery products that are a representation of popular art movements and their philosophies. The audience is creatives who can relate to certain artistic feelings, movements, and artists. The products are intended to be a form of self-expression.

What we like

  • The stationery collection serves as a unique gifting option

What we dislike

  • The collection is conceptual so we are unsure how well it will translate into a tangible product

7. Serenity Pen Stand

Called the Serenity Pen Stand, this unique pen stand is an excellent object to hold your pen. Pens can be pretty easy to lose, and if you’re constantly trying to keep track of your pen, then you need to get your hands on the Serenity Pen Stand. It features a compact and minimal form with a metallic touch.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39

Why is it noteworthy?

The Serenity pen stand ensures you always have easy access to your pen, safeguarding it, and ensuring you never lose it. Made using aluminum and copper, it forms a well-balanced cylinder, that adds a pop of subtle color and character to your study desk.

What we like

  • Has a heavy copper bottom which provides it with a stable form
  • Sleek and minimal design

What we dislike

  • Pretty small in size, so can be misplaced easily

8. Bloomstick

Named the Bloomstick, this pretty-looking conceptual pen design allows you to write down your dreams as it is important to note them down and make them come true. The pen lets your dreams “bloom like flowers” when you write them on paper using it. The tagline of the pen is “Click to bloom your dream”.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Bloomstick is equipped with a silicone-covered platform which you can press, and it opens into a pretty flower-like shape, which you can use as a blooming instrument. It is available in different colors such as blue, pink, and green, but when closed it looks like a typical pen which you can still use.

What we like

  • Gives a playful and interesting twist to your everyday pen

What we dislike

  • The pen seems to be more aesthetic than functional

9. Japanese Paper Memo Block

Dubbed the Japanese Paper Memo Block, this minimal little notepad is designed to capture your every day exciting thoughts, making sure you never really miss out on them. Since we tend to have a fear of missing out on our thoughts, it is important to note them down in the nick of time.

Click Here to Buy Now: $20.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Memo Block lets you focus on what is important, allowing you to note down your significant thoughts, before you get distracted, and lose track of them. The pad is pretty small, and you can easily place it wherever you like.

What we like

  • Features a pure black/white surface which lets you pull out new thoughts from your mind
  • The pad is made using high-quality Japanese paper

What we dislike

  • Looks like an ordinary memo pad with no real specialty

10. Funno

Named Funno, this unique pencil sharpener is unlike your typical pencil sharpener. It has the shape of a small cylinder, which makes it one-of-a-kind, unlike the conventional pencil sharpeners you tend to see in the market. If you’re looking to add something interesting and innovative to your stationery collection, then you need to get Funno.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Funno pencil sharpener has a lustrous sheen which makes it look like a luxurious desk decoration instead of a simple stationery design that cuts through hard, getting muddied and dirtied by black graphite.

What we like

  • Funno has a German-made Möebius+Ruppert inside to deal with dull pencils easily

What we dislike

  • Some people may prefer a typical and traditional sharpener. The design may be too radical for some

The post 10 Best Stationery Products To Assist You In Your Art & Design Projects first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Innovative Smartwatches That Are Excellent Alternatives To The Apple Watch

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An exceptional smartwatch can really transform your everyday life. Since we can honestly use them for everything – sometimes for everything except telling the time! They go beyond simply telling the time, these multifunctional timepieces can now keep a check on our health, update us on the weather, function as an alarm clock, give reminders, cater to the blind, and even function as a case for your AirPods?! Designers are coming up with smartwatches that not only provide perfect form and functionality but also manage to look super smart when we wear them. The options are endless, so to help you pick a smartwatch that works best for you, we’ve curated a collection of innovative and cutting-edge smartwatches that will cater to everyone’s unique time-telling needs and requirements, and also totally deserve to be on your wrists.

1. MSI Gaming Watch

Meet the MSI Gaming Watch – it works as a watch and a gaming PC! It is a conceptual design that pays tribute to the detailed and stunning innards of the most advanced gaming rigs. The watch features fans, graphic cards, and a motherboard – all scaled down to a compact and nifty size. If you look properly at the fans, you’ll notice tiny hands telling you the time. The innovative MSI Gaming Watch isn’t simply all show and no tell, it truly has a lot to offer. It is designed in the MSI dragon red theme.

2. Ksana

Ksana is a unique smartwatch with an electric display that is completely visible but can be shrunk down into a smaller circle that covers the middle section of the watch. The smartwatch uses E Ink display technology instead of the typical LCD or OLED screens on smartwatches. This makes the smartwatch more battery efficient, and it also displays essential information, without any of the unnecessary distractions created by animated graphics or colors.

3. Watch Pro 2

CMF by Nothing announced the Watch Pro 2 with a radical design change. The sophomore watch features a circular screen instead of the rectangular display seen last year. The choice is an interesting one since CMF will have to redo its complete UI and OS to complement the new display shape. However, the watch will now feature detachable bezels which gives the redesign a reason. The detachable bezels may play a role in the watch’s OS as well.

4. WearPods Smartwatch

WatchOut has designed its own version of a smartwatch with concealed earbuds on the sides. Dubbed the WearPods Smartwatch, this watch is designed for Gen-Z who want to try out new ideas and gadgets to cater to an upbeat lifestyle. The smartwatch charges the earbuds inside, and they’re quite compact which ensures the form factor of the squarish watch is also pretty compact. It features a 48.5 mm dial with symmetrical chopped edges.

5. Rabbit R1 AI Watch

Called the R1, a walkie-talkie-like device was displayed at CES 2024. It was designed by Rabbit in collaboration with Teenage Engineering. The AI-assisted smartphone inspired designer Alisher Ashimov to convert the design into a nifty AI watch. The watch was created to eliminate the need to carry an additional device in your pocket. It serves as a wearable with enhanced portability.

6. Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro

Called the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 5 Enduro, this smartwatch is really quite attractive, and a great choice for those who want a sports watch that can keep pace with their lifestyles. It features a dual display technology, amped with a regular AMOLED screen underneath a low-power display. You can switch to the duller screen on top, if you need to save battery, without cutting down on the tracking features. It also has a color-changing ability which can be used to represent your heart rate.

7. Polar Vantage V3

 

Designed by Polar, the latest Vantage V3 smartwatch is a classier and more sophisticated successor to its 2020 Vantage. V2. The novel smartwatch is created for athletes and amped with interesting features such as the Polar Elixir biosensing tech, and a large aluminum bezel that offers support for the 22mm wristbands. The Elixir biosensing suite features an improved OHR tracking sensor, skin temperature sensor, wrist-ECG, and an oxygen saturation monitor.

8. VOIXATCH

Named the VOIXATCH – meet the first smartwatch with its own built-in Bluetooth headset. The VOIXATCH is forming a universe where watches and earphones coexist in a close-knit ecosystem. Here one product serves and functions as your phone, eliminating the need to pull out your smartphone. It is equipped with LTE and GPS, its own SIM card slot, Google voice assistant, a battery life of 48 hours, a heartbeat sensor, and a gyroscope.

9. Withings Smartwatch

Called the Withings Smartwatch, this stunning watch features a luxurious sapphire-glass casing. The cover features an anti-reflection coating, and the rotating bezel is in stainless steel. Much like a real diver’s watch, the Withings smartwatch has a bezel with laser-engraved markings that display the standard codes of diving practice. The watch also has Lumoniva hollow watch hands, indicators, and indices.

10. The Nubia

Called the Nubia, this innovative smartwatch features an impressive 4-inch display that can be smoothly wrapped around the upper portion of your wrist. In comparison to other smartwatches, the Nubia has a relatively big display, and it has been created to present information in a manner that is easy to access and utilize, irrespective of the angle of the smartwatch.

The post Top 10 Innovative Smartwatches That Are Excellent Alternatives To The Apple Watch first appeared on Yanko Design.

The 10 Best & Innovative Automotive Designs Of Early 2024

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For the past six months, we’ve seen an incredible and exciting downpour at automotive designs Yanko Design. Each vehicle was innovative, bringing to us something we had never seen or experienced before. From killer speed to dashing good looks, to impenetrable safety standards, every automotive we featured at YD broke some design barrier for us, and hopefully, they did the same for you as well. Hence, we’ve curated a collection of automotive designs that we feel were the best of the lot. Each of these amazing automobiles is mercilessly pushing the boundaries of the automotive industry. Automotive enthusiasts will be itching to get their hands on them, and take them for a spin on the streets!

1. Garage 54’s SUV With Springs

YouTuber Garage54 played out an interesting experiment, creating a unique automotive design in the process. Instead of using rubber treads, he outfitted his car with wheels made of springs, hoping that the car would be able to travel on snowy roads and off-road trails pretty well, without any hassle. Sadly, the experiment failed almost instantly, because metal isn’t a great rubber substitute at all, and also because the springs were welded to the tires. However, the experiment does serve as an excellent starting point for an innovative and one-of-a-kind theory.

2. Baxley Moto

Dubbed the Baxley Moto, this futuristic electric motorbike is designed by Shane Baxley, and it features a menacing street-legal aesthetic, accentuated by spokeless wheels. The bike has a hunched-forward riding position, as well as a suspended tail section, protruding slides, and treaded wires, forming a jaw-dropping ride for adventure seekers who enjoy challenging rides on dirt trails. It also has a balance to it and doesn’t feature an edgy or contoured look.

3. Mercedes-Benz Harp

Named the Mercedes-Benz Harp, this car is inspired by the shapes of musical instruments, hence its unique name. The conceptual automotive also draws inspiration from the W196R Formula-1 racing car which was created for the 1954 and 1955 seasons. The front seam of the car has a modern vibe, perfectly partnered up with an asymmetric windshield panel to the rear. The front is contoured and complemented by a sharp rear. These features give the HARP a really impressive vibe, and a god-like figure in a beautiful costume.

4. Project OVAL

Called the Project OVAL, this vertical car concept includes two parts, both of which embrace the vertically oriented design. It features a vertical oval for the steering wheel, which also complements the vehicle’s overall shape while saving space within the cabin. The car focuses on the economy of space over everything else, and it also offers passengers a panoramic view of the outside world. There is also sufficient space behind the seats for baggage, and the vehicle is quite transparent except for the pillars, sides, and roof.

5. HAMMER Hot Wheels x Polestar

Meet the HAMMER Hot Wheels x Polestar – an automotive concept that lingers in the imaginative realm and features a futuristic aesthetic. The car is inspired by Thor’s majestic weapon – the Mjölnir. It is an electric muscle car imagined for Polestar and equipped with a booming performance platform that is also fit for a real-life muscle car. The design is a scaled-down version of a concept electric muscle fusion vehicle, and we would love to see it on the road someday!

6. DAB 1α

DAB 1α is designed by Bayonne design studio and is manufactured in the Beaulieu-Mandeure. It includes retro-gaming elements such as the blue Nitro button, which is inspired by the NFS franchise. This adds some spice and personality to the futuristic ride. It has a top speed of 130 km/h, which is because of its lightweight and well-designed 125 kg body. The gears and clutch are not included, so you need to simply press the throttle, and get rolling on the road. It can be charged using a normal socket or a Type 2 charging port.

7. Palladio

Named Palladio, this hybrid yacht is a conceptual design, and it is ultra-light and can speed up to 55 knots maximum. The yacht looks like it has jumped straight out of a sci-fi movie set in water, and has a unique mouth-shaped, avant-garde design that gives it a futuristic vibe. The yacht is built from carbon fiber propelled via twin Castoldi jets, and it is powered by two FTP engines.

8. Unitrack Electric All-Track Vehicle

Developed by Oruga SIA, a Mobility Tech startup in Latvia, this is the Unitrack electric all-terrain vehicle. It is a three-wheeled motorbike equipped with three ballooned wheels, and it utilizes the company’s proprietary patent-pending monotrack tech. This is designed to tackle the “diverse challenging terrains, from hot sand and muddy forests to rocky climbs and snowy landscapes.” Currently the automotive is only a prototype, and it will be launched in mid-2025 hopefully.

9. Vanderer Citroën 2CV Electric Mini Camper Van

The niche automotive design firm Vanderer designed a stunning electric mini camper van. The van is inspired by the iconic Citroën 2CV, but the classic 2CV was given a futuristic transformation, creating a surreal harmony of the charm of the past and the sustainability of the present. The car is equipped with an integrated electric powertrain, and it offers a clean and eco-friendly driving experience.

10. Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL Flying Car

Named the Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL Flying Car, this unique automotive design is an eVTOL flying car designed by the AeroHT electric aviation wing of the Chinese auto company XPeng. The modular flying car is unlike the conventional ideas seen today, and it adopts a rather unique approach. It is equipped with a two-part design – one part car, and the other is eVTOL, which enables it to smoothly switch between both land and aerial modes.

The post The 10 Best & Innovative Automotive Designs Of Early 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.