In major cities worldwide, the ever-increasing cost of living and space crunch have become common challenges. Toronto, one of Canada’s prominent cities, is no exception. To address this issue, it’s crucial to optimize every available space. In the contemporary era of interior design, the focus has shifted towards planning and adapting to small spaces, mobile housing, multi-use spaces and furniture. As more people yearn to experience city life, it’s imperative to make even the smallest spaces comfortable. The Symington Laneway Suite, situated in Toronto’s Junction neighborhood, is a quintessential example of innovative space utilization and modern interior design.

Designer: Lanescape Architecture

In the heart of Toronto’s Junction neighborhood, on a narrow 17-foot wide lot, stands a beacon of modern living: the Symington Laneway Suite. This 1,000 square foot (92sqm), 2-storey home is a testament to ingenuity, offering a 1-bedroom, 1.5 bathroom residence conveniently close to parks, transit, and community amenities. The exterior is built using black corrugated metal, while horizontal planks add texture to the ground floor, making it feasible to construct.

Don’t be fooled by its size, this suite is packed with features. As you approach, the bright yellow entry door immediately catches the eye. Behind it lies a den/study, complete with a desk, a cozy sitting area, and a built-in shelving niche – perfect for work-from-home needs or simply completing tasks during the day.

Moving through the space, towards the rear of the laneway house, you’ll find the dining area and kitchen. The dining area boasts banquette seating, while the kitchen is adorned with under-cabinet lighting, adding to its ambiance. A sliding door seamlessly extends this open-plan space to a small patio, offering a delightful outdoor escape.

Step onto the patio and take in the ingenious architectural design. The second floor of the laneway house cantilevers outward, providing an additional 3 feet of livable space inside. Stairs between the den and the dining area/kitchen lead to the upper level of the home. Here, a glass partition and railing allow natural light to travel throughout the interior. Upstairs, the small living room, featuring a fireplace, overlooks the laneway with a more private view towards West Toronto. The bedroom and bathroom are located at the rear of the house, facing the yard. Both rooms boast a neutral color palette with added interest in the form of artwork and wallpaper.

The secret to the spacious feel lies in the open floor plan, with not many walls, and large windows that allow light to flow through the space, making it seem open and airy, rather than claustrophobic. The use of a light color palette also makes the space look bigger and airy, making it feel larger than it is. Moreover, the addition of plants brings life to the space, enhancing its overall ambiance.

The post This Tiny Home In A 17-Foot Wide Lot In Toronto Is Redefining Urban Living first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

The post This absolutely genius floor mirror flips over into an ironing board to save space first appeared on Yanko Design.

Born from discarded seafood shells, SEAD merges tradition with innovation, offering eco-friendly pods for heirloom seeds. It’s a journey of reimagined agriculture, where waste transforms into a resource and every seed sown signifies sustainability. SEAD’s design mirrors ecological harmony and agricultural resilience, promising a greener future. Join the movement where innovation blossoms and sustainability flourishes, one seed, one pod at a time.

Designer: Mara Zimmerman

SEAD represents more than just packaging; it embodies a sustainable ethos by repurposing waste material into a valuable resource. Its inception showcases the potential of replacing virgin materials with recycled alternatives, contributing to a circular economy and reducing environmental impact.

At the heart of SEAD lies the preservation of heirloom seeds, varieties passed down through generations, each carrying a rich history and cultural significance. Heirloom seeds, with their diverse traits and adaptability, play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and ensuring food security in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

The use of chitin (pronounced kai-tun) in SEAD packaging not only offers a sustainable alternative to traditional materials but also brings agricultural benefits. Chitin, and its derivatives, act as bio-stimulants, enhancing seed germination, and promoting crop growth. Its natural properties boost plant defenses against pests and diseases while improving water retention in adverse conditions.

Crafted through a meticulous three-step pressing process, SEAD packaging demonstrates the remarkable self-binding ability of chitin, eliminating the need for additional agents. Laser-engraved labeling ensures traceability without the use of inks or dyes, aligning with SEAD’s commitment to sustainability.

Inspired by nature’s design, SEAD packaging mimics the structure of fruits and vegetables, providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution. The innovative design features creases that allow for easy tearing, enabling users to plant seeds conveniently while keeping the rest of the packaging intact.

SEAD offers a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture, combining ecological principles with practical innovation. By seamlessly integrating packaging with planting, SEAD promotes zero-waste practices and fosters a deeper connection between consumers and the environment.

Just in four simple steps: Break pods along perforated lines, gently crush for better seed exposure, plant enriched seeds, and store remaining bars conveniently. These actions seamlessly integrate eco-friendly practices into gardening routines, fostering a deeper connection with the environment. Each step contributes to a greener future, promoting sustainability and preserving heirloom seeds. With SEAD, every seed sown signifies a commitment to ecological harmony and agricultural resilience, paving the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.

SEAD’s innovative seed packaging, crafted from discarded seafood shells, faces cultural barriers in regions like India and Mexico, where pure vegetarianism is prevalent. Mixing seafood with vegetables may encounter resistance due to dietary preferences. Convincing individuals adhering to strict vegetarian or vegan diets of SEAD’s ecological benefits requires careful communication. Despite these challenges, SEAD offers a sustainable option for open-minded consumers committed to environmental conservation. It’s crucial to acknowledge cultural sensitivities and cater to diverse preferences.

The post Eco-friendly seed-pods made from plant and seafood waste could revolutionize bio-packaging first appeared on Yanko Design.

Imagine wandering through the Earth’s diverse landscapes, where lively ecosystems thrive with plants and animals perfectly suited to their surroundings. Each place has unique life forms, from dense forests to icy plains. Inspired by this rich diversity, the BIOMES lighting series brings a new idea to light. It doesn’t just brighten rooms; it adds a touch of nature’s magic. Like a beautiful song, Biomes blends usefulness and beauty, turning ordinary spaces into lively habitats full of potential. With each light, it invites you to explore nature’s wonders, where light and life dance together in a wonderful show of balance and creativity.

Designers: LFD Official – Dongho Shin, INGYEONG HWANG, and Jaehwan Kim

In a world where lighting has become universal yet often uninspired, the Biomes lighting series redefines the role of illumination by merging it with the principles of ecological diversity. Rather than simply being functional fixtures, these lights adapt and integrate with the surrounding environment, much like living organisms coexisting within a biome. Unlike conventional lighting options that prioritize functionality over environmental harmony, Biomes lighting takes a holistic approach. By considering the unique characteristics of each space, these fixtures offer not only illumination but also a seamless blend of creativity and functionality.

Biomes lighting embraces diversity in design and functionality. Each fixture is meticulously crafted to suit different environments, ensuring that every space receives the perfect lighting solution tailored to its specific needs. In a rapidly changing world, adaptability is key. This lighting series is designed to evolve alongside its users and their environments, ensuring longevity and relevance amidst shifting trends and preferences. Recognizing that one size does not fit all, Biomes Lighting offers a diverse range of fixtures optimized for various environments. From living rooms to kitchens to studies, each fixture is uniquely tailored to enhance its surroundings.

Fluffy:

Introducing Fluffy, the unique light that acts like a living organism in your home. It’s soft and coiled, blending seamlessly into your living room. When it’s curled up, it gives off a gentle glow, perfect for a cozy atmosphere. But Fluffy can also stretch out, just like a snake, to light up specific spots when you need it to. When it’s tucked away under a table, it shines a soft light on whatever’s on top. But when you pull it out, it adjusts its brightness to suit whatever you’re doing, almost like it’s alive and reacting to you. Fluffy isn’t just a light – it’s a clever mix of nature-inspired design and modern technology, making your home feel more alive and inviting.

EcoTeapot:

EcoTeapot is a smart lighting solution designed for kitchens that combines style and usefulness. It’s made to fit seamlessly with shelves or cabinets, making your kitchen look great while adding practicality. With its magnetic attachments, it stays firmly in place but is also easy to remove when needed. You can adjust it easily to suit your kitchen setup. Plus, it comes with a handy tray attachment perfect for keeping your teapot or cups nearby – that’s why it’s called EcoTeapot! It’s a simple yet clever way to light up your kitchen and keep your essentials organized, all in one neat package.

Biomy:

Biomy is a versatile light designed for places like desks and libraries. It’s not just about lighting – it’s about blending in with nature and our spaces. Biomy looks like it’s part of your desk, and it’s handy for hanging things like headphones. It lights up both the top and bottom of the desk, so you can find things easily if they fall. But remember, it’s more for creating a nice atmosphere than for focused work lighting. With Biomy, you get a cozy glow that makes your space feel calm and productive. It’s a simple way to bring a bit of nature indoors while making your workspace more functional and inviting.

As the world continues to evolve, the Biomes lighting series stands as a testament to the power of innovation inspired by nature. By embracing diversity and adaptability, these fixtures not only illuminate our spaces but also enrich them, creating dynamic ecosystems of light and life. Illuminate your world with Biomes lighting and experience the transformative power of ecological design.

The post Lighting That Believes In Coexistence and Is Inspired By Nature first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Pagoda Lamp taps into the rich symbolism of Buddhist pagodas to create an unparalleled lighting experience. Pagodas, renowned for their tower-like stature, multi-story design, and construction from stone, brick, or wood, are typically associated with Buddhist temple complexes and are a common sight in East and Southeast Asia. Inspired by the deep significance imbued within these iconic structures – embodiments of enlightenment and spiritual wisdom – the visionaries behind the Pagoda Lamp set out to translate these age-old concepts into a contemporary masterpiece. In their pursuit, they seamlessly weave tradition into the fabric of modern design, breathing new life into ancient symbolism.

Designer: Zongming Liu and Xingchen Pan

At the heart of this lamp’s design philosophy lies the ambition to reimagine traditional symbols uniquely and refreshingly. Departing from conventional lamp designs, this luminary masterpiece boasts a distinctive feature – a seamless integration of form and function, reminiscent of the artful rotations of a pagoda. Its appearance alone speaks volumes, with the bulbs housed within the graceful contours of the pagoda’s shape, exuding an aura of elegance and mystique.

What truly sets this lamp apart is its innovative approach to user interaction. Eschewing the need for external switches, the lamp ingeniously incorporates its controls into the very essence of its design. With a simple touch and gentle rotation atop the pagoda, users can effortlessly illuminate their space, adjusting brightness levels to suit their preferences. This intuitive functionality not only enhances the user experience but also adds a touch of magic to everyday lighting routines.

Crafted with precision and attention to detail, the Pagoda Lamp is as much a feat of engineering as it is a work of art. The shell, meticulously fashioned from teak wood, offers not only aesthetic appeal but also durability and stability. Designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, the lamp’s construction ensures minimal deformation, while the natural heat conduction of wood imbues a sense of warmth and comfort to any space it illuminates.

With dimensions of 10cm x 10cm x 20cm, the Lamp is perfectly suited for a variety of settings, from cozy reading nooks to elegant study spaces. Moreover, its affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide audience, catering to the diverse needs of modern households. In a market saturated with mundane lamp designs, the Pagoda Lamp stands out as a testament to the transformative power of innovative design, elevating the humble desk lamp into a true work of art. However, behind its exquisite exterior lies a testament to ingenuity and craftsmanship. The complex internal structure of this lamp posed significant challenges during the manufacturing process, requiring meticulous attention to detail and precision machining techniques to achieve the desired outcome. Yet, it is precisely this commitment to excellence that sets this lamp apart, ensuring a product of unparalleled quality and sophistication.

The post This Pagoda Lamp Is A Fusion Of Buddhist Architecture and Innovation first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nestled amidst the lush woods of Bali, a symmetrical haven awaits those seeking solace and elegance. At first glance, it’s apparent that this villa is not just another architectural marvel; it’s a seamless blend of Japanese inspiration with a touch of Balinese flair, creating an atmosphere of understated grace and natural harmony. I find a lot of overlap between the two architectural styles.

Designer: Thilina Liyanage

The villa’s design draws inspiration from traditional Japanese architecture, evident in its distinctive Yosemune roofs. These exaggerated curves immediately capture the eye and evoke the essence of Japanese design principles overlapping with the Balinese. But what truly sets this villa apart is its ingenious incorporation of these elements into the tranquil landscape of Bali.

Wood is the cornerstone of Japanese architecture, chosen for its resilience in the face of earthquakes. Similarly, this villa embraces the warmth and versatility of wood, creating a space that not only withstands the test of time but also invites inhabitants to coexist harmoniously with nature. Every corner of the villa exudes a sense of tranquility, with natural materials seamlessly blending into the surrounding environment.

Perched on the slope of a mountain, the villa offers a journey of discovery from top to bottom. Upon entering from the top, guests are greeted by a central stairway leading to the heart of the villa. Here, an open kitchen and dining area await, seamlessly transitioning to a poolside oasis where one can indulge in a refreshing dip while savoring the beauty of the surroundings.

The bedrooms, situated on either side of the pool, offer a serene retreat with their cantilevered net seating—a Balinese interpretation of traditional balconies. Inside, wood and bamboo interiors create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, inviting guests to unwind and rejuvenate.

Throughout the villa, a variety of seating areas are available, each offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. From day beds to sunken seating areas, there’s a spot for every mood and occasion, ensuring that guests can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the woods at any time of day.

At the lowest level, an open bath awaits, allowing guests to shower amidst the serenity of the woods—a truly immersive experience that reconnects them with nature. A distinctive element of every property in Bali!

Perhaps most importantly, the villa’s design prioritizes privacy, ensuring that every room and corner offers a sanctuary away from the outside world. Whether lounging by the pool or enjoying a meal al fresco, guests can relish in the seclusion and tranquility of their surroundings.

The post The Enchanting Overlap of Japanese and Balinese Architecture in a Woodland Villa first appeared on Yanko Design.

Have you ever glanced at your closet and thought, “How can something as simple as a hanger be personal to me?”, since personalizing products in the fashion industry is anyway a trend for the elite. That’s precisely the question ‘HANG / WE’ seeks to answer. It seeks to challenge this notion by infusing individuality and storytelling into the very object that holds our garments. It delves deep into the essence of human connection and personal expression through a series of creatively designed clothes hangers.

Designers: Yun A Jang, Nahyun Kim, JongWon Kim, SEUNGMIN LEE, and HWANJONG CHOI,

The core philosophy of ‘HANG / WE’ revolves around the idea that traditional hangers contradict the emphasis on individuality in clothing. In response, the designers set out to encapsulate the stories of five distinct individuals through their respective hangers. Each hanger serves as a canvas, revealing the unique personalities of its users within the confines of established norms. This endeavor mirrors our society’s yearning for coexistence and the ideal of a harmonious community.

The name, ‘HANG / WE,’ carries profound symbolism. It juxtaposes ‘WE’ as the denominator against ‘HANG’ as the numerator, signifying the importance of collective identity and shared experiences. Through the act of hanging, the designers aim to express a fragment of our lives, highlighting the interconnectedness of humanity.

In their design process, the team at ‘HANG / WE’ resonates with the principle of “form follows function,” prioritizing the usefulness of their creations. But they also think it’s essential for their creations to make people feel something deeper. This reminds me of what design expert Hartmut Esslinger once said about how form should occasionally follow emotion too.

So, even though the stuff they make might not look like what you’d expect and don’t turn out to be conventionally ‘aesthetic’, it’s because they want you to have a special connection with it. These hangers, for example. They’re not like regular ones, but that quirky design makes them cool. Each hanger tells a story about the person who uses it, showing off their unique style. So, even though their things might seem a bit different, they’re all about making you feel something special when you use them. And that’s what makes them stand out.

These stories are more important than just looking nice. While looking good is common, things that have a story behind them are special. They’re like a way to tell stories and connect with others. The best designs happen when being useful also makes people feel something. That’s why the hangers from ‘HANG / WE’ are so cool. They’re not just for hanging clothes; they’re for making people feel something too. And that’s what makes them special.

In line with this ethos, each hanger in the ‘HANG / WE’ collection is meticulously crafted to elicit a specific emotional resonance.

No.1: Layered + Hang

Resonating with the design theory of “form follows function,” the ‘Layered + Hang’ hanger reflects a bold departure from conventionality. Its repetitive and overlapping form isn’t just about hanging clothes; it’s a visual representation of our habit of layering various items in our wardrobe.

It’s an intuitive way to dump clothes that your mom may call ‘messy’ but this hanger validates your convenience. Imagine your favorite sweater resting snugly over a crisp shirt, with a jacket thrown casually on top – that’s the essence of ‘Layered + Hang.’ It’s not just a hanger; it’s a reminder of the complexity and richness of our style.

No. 2: Ribbon & Tie Styling

Ribbon & Tie Styling’ hanger is a true embodiment of the philosophy that form follows emotion. It’s not just a hanger; it’s a wearable piece of art. Inspired by the graceful draping of clothes over shoulders and the artful tying of knots, this hanger isn’t afraid to flaunt its personality. Just like how we express ourselves through our clothing choices, ‘Ribbon & Tie Styling’ expresses its personality through its sculptural design.

Hang your favorite dress or your go-to blazer on this hanger, and watch as it becomes a statement piece in your closet. It is ideal for retail stores catering to intricate clothing styles, ensuring each piece finds its perfect showcase.

No. 3: Concat _Ws

A hanger that is designed for those who crave organization and efficiency in their daily lives. Respecting the ethos of “form follows function,” this hanger goes beyond mere clothing storage. It’s a versatile solution that caters to your need to keep commonly used items in one accessible spot. It’s a more intricate form of a cloth hanger stand. Hang your scarves, belts, or even your favorite accessories alongside your clothes. With ‘Concat _Ws,’ everything has its place, making getting ready in the morning a breeze. It’s another piece that makes your messy habits ‘normal’

No. 4: Everything, Everywhere

Everything, Everywhere’ – the hanger that defies boundaries. True to its name, this hanger is designed to hold anything, anywhere. Respecting the principles of functionality and versatility, ‘Everything, Everywhere’ isn’t constrained by traditional notions of what a hanger should be. Its innovative design reveals both bending and hanging functions, showcasing its adaptability to various items beyond just clothes. From bags to hats to even household items, this hanger can handle it all.

No. 5: Plus – Minus

This hanger is all about adaptability and customization. Built on the idea of “adding and subtracting” from your lifestyle, this modular hanger empowers you to tailor it according to your evolving needs.

Whether you need extra hanging space for guests’ coats or want to showcase your latest fashion finds, ‘Plus – Minus’ has got you covered. Its modular design allows you to easily add or remove additional hanging rods, giving you the flexibility to create a personalized storage solution that grows with you.

In essence, these hangers go beyond the realm of traditional product design. It embodies a holistic approach to creation, where every detail serves to foster meaningful experiences and relationships. By marrying form and function with emotional resonance, it exemplifies the evolving landscape of design, where human-centricity reigns supreme. As the design industry continues to evolve, ‘HANG / WE’ stands as a testament to the transformative power of design in shaping not just products, but also the way we perceive and interact with the world around us. Through its innovative approach, the project invites us to reconsider the everyday objects that surround us, reminding us that even the simplest of tools can become vessels for self-expression and connection.

The post These Quirky Clothes Hangers That Add A Touch of Fun and Function To Your Wardrobe first appeared on Yanko Design.

Notice that cool abstract design on the chair? It’s not just some fabric, it’s real plants! 3 design students from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden changed the narrative of chairs for humans. Why do chairs always have to be used for us to come sit on them? We’re all taught that plants are living beings right? What if these living things could practically bring furniture to life? This chair is a unique piece of furniture that prioritizes plant life over human occupants by allowing them to grow on it.

Designers: Alice Hultqvist, Emelie Sjöberg and Linnea Nilsson

The Chia-Chair is different from regular chairs. Instead of cushions or upholstery, the chair has a seat and backrest that are composed of a knitted, knotted tube that doubles as a planting bed for chia seeds. The idea is to let the plants be the main users of the chair, and humans are just visitors. The designers emphasize that humans should approach it with respect, recognizing that it’s a living thing.

Hultqvist, Sjöberg, and Nilsson, all students in the MA Design program at HDK-Valand, the University of Gothenburg’s art and design academy, showcased their creations at the Making Transparency exhibition. This event, hosted in the student-focused Greenhouse section of the Stockholm Furniture Fair, explored posthumanist design principles.

The inspiration behind the Chia-Chair arose from the designers’ contemplation of humanity’s negative impact on the planet. They acknowledged that throughout the last century, humans have prioritized their needs at the expense of nature and wildlife, leading to severe consequences. The Chia-Chair, therefore, serves as a symbolic gesture, aiming to redress the balance by placing the plant at the forefront and demanding reciprocity from its human users.

yanko design images to size – Chia_chair_furntiure_05

Constructed with an ash wood frame and a wool sock filled with polyester stuffing as the cushion, the Chia-Chair offers a distinctive aesthetic. The chia seeds, mixed with water, were planted in the knitted structure, and the designers diligently watered them twice daily. To maintain optimal growing conditions, a plastic cover was placed over the chair overnight to retain moisture.

While the Chia-Chair may be more of a statement piece than a functional item, the designers foresee a future where greenery becomes integral to our living spaces. In an era of increasing urbanization that disconnects people from nature, incorporating natural elements into furniture and homes is seen as a natural progression.

The Chia-Chair serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between humans and nature. By prioritizing plant life over human comfort, the designers challenge us to reconsider our impact on the environment and encourage a more harmonious coexistence with the natural world.

The post This Chair Allows Plants to Grow On it And Puts Nature Before Human Needs first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smart technology isn’t a very new concept anymore but with the promise of holistic well-being combined with technology, designer Yoojin Chung takes a satirical swipe at the Western interpretation of feng shui with her ingenious project, “Capturing Qi.” This trio of digital devices, born out of Chung’s critique of the commodification of ancient practices, offers a whimsical take on harnessing positive energy in the modern home.

Designer: Yoojin Chung

Drawing on her roots in South Korea, Chung’s project serves as a playful commentary on how feng shui, an ancient Chinese practice rooted in the flow of positive energy or qi, has been repackaged into consumer products promising health and fortune. With a keen eye for irony, Chung transforms three iconic feng shui objects – the crystal ball, the wind chime, and the water fountain – into dynamic smart-home devices, all controllable through a smartphone app.

This series of devices blurs the line between tradition and technology, reimagining familiar feng shui elements through a contemporary lens. Each device, whether it’s the spinning crystal, the swaying wind chimes, or the flowing water, creates a visual illusion of energy flow reminiscent of the traditional objects they imitate. Equipped with Arduino circuit boards, these devices seamlessly integrate into the smart home ecosystem, offering users the ability to manipulate their surroundings with just a few taps on their smartphones.

Yet, beneath the whimsy lies a deeper reflection on the human desire for control and success. Chung cleverly infuses her devices with a sense of agency, suggesting that the more one activates them, the greater their chances of success. It’s a nod to our innate yearning for control over our destinies, even as we seek solace in ancient practices like feng shui.

What sets these appliances apart is the thoughtful nod to scientific aesthetics, drawing inspiration from 18th-century scientific apparatus like vacuum chambers. By infusing the devices with the trappings of scientific equipment, it invites users to reconsider their relationship with feng shui in the context of modernity. The wind chime, suspended like a scientific instrument, prompts contemplation on the subtle nuances of object placement and their symbolic meanings in feng shui.

As a graduate of the MA Contextual Design program at Design Academy Eindhoven (DAE), Chung joins a cohort of designers pushing the boundaries of traditional design paradigms. Her work exemplifies the program’s ethos of challenging conventional norms and exploring the intersection of culture, technology, and design. In an era where ancient practices collide with cutting-edge technology, Yoojin Chung’s “Capturing Qi” serves as a poignant reminder of the ever-evolving nature of design and its role in shaping our lived experiences.

The post Ancient Chinese Tradition of Feng Shui Reimagined To Fit Into The Modern World Of Appliances first appeared on Yanko Design.

In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s expansive desert, a groundbreaking venture named Gidori is taking shape, offering a visionary escape for those seeking a blend of modern luxury, stunning landscapes, and outdoor recreation. Envisioned as a futuristic haven, Gidori stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the realm of architecture and leisure.

Designers: Ignacio Gomez and Lama Al Kharboush

Gidori’s masterminds, architects from Aedas, are orchestrating a visual spectacle in the desert. With plans for 200 villas and homes seamlessly integrated into the natural surroundings, Gidori embraces the desert landscape rather than competing with it. At the heart of this ambitious project is the Monolith, an awe-inspiring beachfront complex featuring 190 cantilevering apartments adorned with glass and metallic surfaces. Drawing inspiration from the rugged beauty of natural rock formations, the Monolith is a gravity-defying structure that combines futuristic aesthetics with organic grace. Inside its embrace, residents and visitors can explore dining havens, retail spaces, and lush gardens, creating an immersive experience that blurs the lines between nature and architecture.

Beyond its architectural marvels, Gidori promises a luxurious escape with a carefully curated set of amenities. The boutique hotel, boasting 80 rooms, becomes a sanctuary of comfort and sophistication. Guests can relish the culinary delights of the hotel’s restaurants and unwind in the cozy lounges, ensuring a memorable stay. For golf enthusiasts, Gidori’s 18-hole championship golf course weaves through the low hills and rocky outcrops, challenging players with innovative design, breathtaking coastal views, and cutting-edge technology. The clubhouse mirrors this elegance, offering a refined space for hospitality, while the golf academy caters to traditional and e-sports aficionados alike, ushering in a new era of recreational engagement.

Gidori’s charm extends beyond its architectural grandeur and luxurious accommodations. The project embraces the natural beauty of the surroundings, emphasizing outdoor activities and lush landscaping. Trails for hiking wind through the terrain, offering both relaxed and challenging routes for nature enthusiasts. Cyclists, whether sticking to the road or venturing off the beaten path, will find Gidori a haven for exploration. Along the beach, a tranquil club invites guests to enjoy water sports and unwind in a serene atmosphere. As the sun sets, Gidori unveils observation platforms that provide unparalleled views of the night sky, creating an enchanting space for stargazers.

Gidori’s announcement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious vision for development, as evidenced by the progress of the 170-km-long Line project and plans for a towering 2-km skyscraper. Together, these ventures showcase the nation’s forward-thinking approach, pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation and sustainable luxury on a global stage.

The post Saudi Arabia’s New Luxurious Vacation Spot For Golf Enthusiasts first appeared on Yanko Design.

In a world where time is of the essence, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee is a daily necessity, Brewster emerges as the ultimate solution for coffee enthusiasts on the go. This battery-powered coffee machine of the future takes your random coffee cravings to a new level of convenience and precision, allowing you to enjoy a perfect cup of coffee anytime, anywhere.

Designer: Jeremiah Shaw

Brewster is not just a coffee machine; it’s a lifestyle innovation designed for the future. No more worrying about being late for work and sacrificing your morning ritual. It empowers you to take charge of your coffee experience by allowing you to source your favorite coffee beans and water, while it handles the rest with unparalleled efficiency.

One of Brewster’s standout features is its compact design, making it easy to carry around and use whenever and wherever you desire. This portable coffee companion not only satisfies your caffeine cravings but also saves valuable space in your kitchen. The days of sacrificing precious countertop real estate for a coffee machine are over.

Say goodbye to being tethered to a power outlet. This coffee machine’s battery-powered nature liberates you from the constraints of plug points, enabling you to brew your coffee in any location. Whether you’re in a rush, camping, or simply want to enjoy coffee in a different room, Brewster is ready to serve.

Brewster’s intuitive design ensures a hassle-free coffee-making experience. With just one button, the entire grinding, heating, tamping, and pouring process is at your fingertips. The simplicity of operation eliminates confusion, making it user-friendly for both seasoned coffee connoisseurs and beginners alike.

The thoughtful design of this coffee machine extends to its ergonomics. Protrusions on the top of the base make it easy to open the appliance like a bottle, allowing you to pour out steaming, flavorful coffee with ease. The user-centric design ensures that every step of the coffee-making process is as enjoyable as the first sip.

Brewster goes beyond basic functionality with its smart interface. It guides users through the entire process, providing notifications for ingredient requirements and real-time water temperature updates. This level of interaction ensures that you are always in control of your coffee experience, tailoring it to your preferences.

The coffee machine not only caters to your coffee needs but also adds a touch of style to your routine. With five vibrant colors and sizes to choose from, you can match it to your personal taste and elevate your coffee-making ritual to a visually pleasing experience.

Brewster is more than just a coffee machine; it’s a testament to the fusion of technology, convenience, and style. As a battery-powered, portable, and user-friendly device, it is set to redefine the way we approach our daily coffee rituals. Embrace the future of coffee convenience with Brewster – your perfect shot of precision in a portable package.

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