When looking at options for furniture for their new or current house, people either look at the design and aesthetics while some prefer the more comfortable ones over the ones that would look good in their space. But of course there are those that can probably offer you both so wouldn’t you want to have something that looks good in your space and also is pretty comfortable that you’d want to use it for a long time?
Designer: Mudu Studios
SOLO is a concept for a furniture collection that could offer both comfort and design. The focal point of this collection is the plush upholstery that is seemingly placed on a pedestal because of the materials used. The collection includes an armchair, sofa, and a pouf, all of which feature a soft aesthetic, in contrast to the metal or natural veneer of the base which acts like a pedestal to showcase the luxuriously soft upholstery and textile. This contrast highlights the plushness of the seating while adding a touch of modern sophistication. Accent seams further enhance the visual appeal, adding subtle detailing and contributing to the overall character of the collection.
The collection’s expressive design language allows it to seamlessly integrate into a variety of interior styles, from contemporary minimalist spaces to more eclectic settings. The varied color palette offers a range of options to suit individual preferences and complement existing décor. A standout feature of the SOLO armchair is its innovative twist mechanism. This thoughtful addition enhances comfort and allows users to easily find their perfect lounging position, further emphasizing the collection’s focus on relaxation and well-being. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a harmonious balance between form and function. The elevated design not only adds visual interest but also contributes to the overall comfort by providing optimal support. The combination of soft textiles, a sturdy base, and thoughtful features like the twist mechanism in the armchair make SOLO a truly exceptional collection.
Alas, the SOLO collection is still a concept and they are currently looking for a manufacturer. But to have something that is visually attractive and seemingly comfortable should make it easy for them to eventually find someone that can make this design a reality. I am now currently dreaming of taking a nap on that sofa or reading a book for hours on that armchair or sitting on that pouf while chatting and drinking with friends.
Most chairs are designed for the everyday act of sitting – at a desk, relaxing, or enjoying a meal. But what about those who require a more dynamic and specialized seating experience? Painters, for example, often work on vertical canvases, require a chair that offers mobility, support, and freedom of movement. Industrial design student Teo Primo Frizzarin recognized this need and developed the “Leo” chair, a concept specifically designed for artists.
Frizzarin, studying at ECAL (University of Art and Design Lausanne), focused his efforts on creating a chair that caters to the unique demands of working with a vertical surface. The Leo chair aims to provide painters with enhanced mobility and crucial arm support, essential for the creation of their masterpieces. The name itself, “Leo,” likely evokes the legacy of Leonardo da Vinci, hinting at the chair’s artistic purpose. The Leo chair draws inspiration from the form and function of a horse saddle. This design provides a stable seat while simultaneously granting the user greater freedom of movement compared to a traditional chair.
You get a conventional looking backrest but it also appears to be an arm support, which is probably what’s needed more. This support is not only adjustable in height but also in position, accommodating the varied postures and angles painters adopt while working. This adaptability is key, as artists often shift their positions and reach across the canvas as their work progresses. The prototype of the Leo chair showcases its mobility-enhancing features, including integrated wheels. These wheels allow the artist to easily maneuver around their workspace, retrieving paints, brushes, solvents, or other materials without needing to stand up and disrupt their creative flow. This thoughtful detail addresses the practical needs of painters who often require quick access to a variety of tools and supplies.
Frizzarin’s innovative design earned him a “Très Bien” mention for his diploma project, suggesting a promising future for the Leo chair. This recognition underscores the potential market for specialized furniture that caters to the specific requirements of artists. Currently, painters often rely on standard chairs, rolling chairs, or swivel chairs, none of which are perfectly optimized for the demands of their craft. The Leo chair offers a compelling alternative, potentially revolutionizing the way artists interact with their workspace. While still a concept, the Leo chair represents a significant step towards a more ergonomic and artist-centric approach to furniture design. It raises the question: will the Leo chair become the new standard for artists’ seating, or will it inspire further innovation in this often-overlooked area of design?
Ever since I discovered the joys of bean bags, I automatically sit on one whenever I see one at a coffee shop, library, or at my friend’s house. There’s something really comfortable about sinking in almost to the floor on these mostly comfortable chair alternatives instead of sitting on a chair or couch. There are times when I can actually sleep in those things, although it’s not good for the back or neck afterwards. I sometimes want to take a peek inside though as to what are the materials there inside.
Transparent Bean Bag is what its name says it is. The concept is to have a bean bag that you can see what’s inside since the outer part is of a transparent, plastic material. There are two ideas behind this design: to use recycled materials and also to take advantage of the raw aesthetic of said recycled materials. They used the excess foam from a furniture workshop to not just reduce the carbon footprint that a normal bean bag would have but also to reduce the production cost since you just re-use what is already been discarded.
The usual bean bag has an emphasis on the outer wrapping as the main design. But this time around, the volumetric material (mass) that’s inside the bean bag takes center stage. It’s like seeing a bunch of different colored popcorn squished inside the transparent bag when you sit on it. There are several advantages to having a transparent bean bag. For one, it can be more aesthetically pleasing. You can also customize the “content” inside to show more colorful elements and fillers, or even a more minimalist approach. They can also blend in better with different kinds of surroundings, especially if you are able to customize what’s inside.
Maintenance can also be better for this kind of bean bag since the transparent plastic material is often water-resistant and easy to wipe off. It would be nice also if the material inside can be replaced eventually, although that may defeat the idea of using more sustainable materials. This is a pretty interesting kind of item to have in my space and the Architecture Masterprize seems to think so too since they chose it as one of the best products last year.
The Sharp coffee table boldly defies the ordinary, emerging as a striking piece of modern art. It challenges traditional ideas about furniture, positioning itself as a daring statement. Crafted for those who embrace life beyond the conventional, this table is for individuals who set their own style standards and are unafraid to break societal norms, offering a fresh perspective on home decor.
Rooted in a desire to redefine the role of furniture, the Sharp collection stands as a testament to this vision. This table is a declaration in itself, merging industrial steel with a sleek black finish to create a captivating contrast. The result is an “uncomfortable beauty” that draws the eye and sparks conversation, offering a luxurious experience that proudly embraces its bold, unrefined essence.
Designers: Nikita Gorshkov, Alexandra Ivanets (Primitive Buro)
The allure of the Sharp table lies in its unique design, characterized by stark, deliberate geometry. Minimalistic in detail yet impactful in presence, its narrow lines and abrupt edges create an aura of tension and strength. The black color scheme transforms the table into a commanding visual centerpiece, dictating the ambiance of the room and asserting its presence rather than simply blending in.
Steel, chosen for its timeless and resilient qualities, serves as the perfect medium for the Sharp table. It embodies strength and durability, while the black finish enhances its monolithic presence, lending an air of intimidation and elegance. Each table is meticulously handcrafted, ensuring every piece is unique, with its own distinct personality and character, making it a truly one-of-a-kind addition to any space.
Most eye-catching are the jagged, teeth-like feet of the table, giving the piece of furniture an imposing presence bordering on frightening. It also boggles the mind, given those pointed ends, how the table can stand so stably, let alone support the weight of a person sitting on it. Yes, it can be used as an impromptu bench, though one would wonder who would be daring enough to tempt fate.
This is why the Sharp Coffee Table is crafted for those who are fearless in making bold statements with their interiors. It attracts those who find beauty in rawness and simplicity, and who embrace the freedom that comes with rejecting conventional stereotypes, making it a perfect fit for the daring and adventurous. For those who dare to defy convention and embrace their unique sense of style, the Sharp Table offers an unparalleled experience, inviting you to explore new horizons in interior design and self-expression.
Inspiration often emerges from unexpected sources. A walk in a forest can have you stumbling on fungi that become the inspiration for a new kind of sustainable material. Watching a crowded concert could give you an idea for the next big social media app. Those “aha!” moments often lead to interesting designs, even for the most mundane household items.
One such innovative fusion is the Grip Hanger, a clothes rack that draws its design from the unique forms found on sport climbing walls. These walls mimic the natural rock formations climbers encounter, yet they are crafted with intentional shapes to enhance grip practice and skill development. It’s almost a very loose and random association between two uses of the word “hang,” and yet it yields quite a stunning implementation that can add a bit of joy to your everyday life.
Unlike the randomness of natural rocks, the holds on climbing walls are meticulously designed to challenge and train climbers. The Grip Hanger cleverly incorporates this concept, with its “Hold” component mirroring the playful shapes of climbing holds. Their seemingly deformed shapes hide a deeper meaning to them, something you might not realize unless you take a closer look.
This whimsical design gives the hanger itself a distinctive personality, Its hook mimics the way climbers’ hands grasp these holds, with thin metal fingers trying to grip those stone-like holds. This subtle design adds a touch of sport climbing flair to any room, or at least makes you pause and wonder why a hanger would look that way.
Constructed from bent sheet metal, the clothes rack itself mirrors the angular, rugged aesthetic of artificial climbing walls. Its raw, brutalist design speaks to the architectural style often seen in urban landscapes, making it a bold statement piece. This edgy design goes beyond mere looks and provides sturdy support and a unique visual appeal that catches the eye.
The Grip Hanger stands out with its modular functionality, featuring perforations that allow for the attachment of detachable shelves. This adaptability makes it not only a stylish addition but also a practical solution for organizing clothes and accessories. The design invites users to think creatively, transforming a simple clothes rack into an engaging, interactive piece of home decor.
This innovative design challenges the conventional view of everyday objects, infusing them with creativity and fun. The Grip Hanger encourages us to look beyond traditional designs and embrace the unexpected, turning a mundane item into something extraordinary. Its playful yet functional approach serves as a reminder that inspiration can be found anywhere, even in the most unexpected places.
It also demonstrates how anything can be a source of inspiration and ideas, even the ones you least expect. Its blend of sport climbing elements and practical functionality makes it a standout piece, adding character and charm to any space. The Grip Hanger is a testament to the endless possibilities that arise when creativity meets everyday utility.
Levito redefines expectations for furniture design, presenting itself as much more than a chair, it’s a bold statement piece that bridges art and functionality. Designed for installations and exhibitions, Levito challenges perceptions, inviting viewers to engage with its dual-sensory experience. This innovative creation transforms a simple act, like sitting, into an exploration of balance and contrast.
At first glance, Levito’s design may seem unstable, even precarious. Its structure consists of two separate components connected by wires, giving the impression of fragility. This visual uncertainty is an intentional artistic choice, crafted to spark curiosity and encourage deeper engagement. Despite appearances, Levito is structurally sound, providing tactile comfort and stability. This intentional contrast, visual instability versus physical reliability, forms the heart of Levito’s identity.
Levito offers a two-stage experience that separates perception from interaction. Initially, viewers are drawn to its striking aesthetic, questioning its usability and marveling at its unconventional construction. This stage engages the mind, encouraging curiosity about its functionality. The second stage begins when one sits on Levito. Here, its true ingenuity shines: the interconnected parts allow for a subtle, fluid sway along its axis, evoking the sensation of floating on a cloud. This gentle motion surprises and delights, transforming skepticism into trust.
By emphasizing this interplay between appearance and experience, Levito elevates itself from furniture to an experiential design piece. It challenges users to reconsider traditional notions of function and aesthetics, offering a sensory journey that blurs the boundaries between art and utility. Levito’s unique form and functionality make it ideal for galleries, exhibitions, or modern living spaces, where it seamlessly integrates bold artistic expression with everyday practicality.
For those who value innovative design, Levito is more than an object; it’s an invitation to explore the relationship between comfort and curiosity. It embodies the idea that furniture can be more than utilitarian—it can provoke thought, inspire wonder, and deliver delight. By merging visual intrigue with tactile pleasure, Levito sets a new standard in furniture design, offering an experience that is as engaging as it is functional. Whether admired for its artistry or appreciated for its comfort, Levito transforms the way we interact with the objects in our lives.
There are chairs that look very pretty and artsy but are probably not the most comfortable place to sit on. I’m the kind of person that would care more about a chair’s functionality rather than its design, as long as it’s comfortable and would let me sit on it for a long time. But there are those that also can be both and this new one from furniture brand Heller seems like it is.
Designer: Hlynur Atlason
The Limbo Chair is something that you can use either indoor or outdoor. Its “swooping, sculptural form” makes it look like an art piece you can find at a museum but since it’s a chair foremost, it was also designed to “balance flexibility and support, playfulness and durability.” They say it’s comfortable enough to be able to use it while you’re resting, reading a book, or just sitting without agenda.
The other special thing about this chair is that it is 100% recyclable. It uses a high percentage of recycled plastic polyethylene blend. What percentage of the material this is depends on the color, with black being the highest. It is available in warm and neutral colors like black, bone, sand, terra cotta, wheat, and cantaloupe, to blend in whatever environment you place it in.
The chair seems to be low enough for you to relax in, although I don’t know if I can last in it even though I’m not the tallest person. It will look good though if you add it to your space especially if one of the available colors matches your aesthetics.
Given how many hours a day and how many days a week people work in front of their desks, the need for comfortable and ergonomic chairs is more important today than ever. Although work-from-home arrangements have made it possible to pick your own chair, that isn’t true for offices that buy generic chairs in bulk to keep costs down. While almost all manufacturers promise comfort, not everyone defines that word the same way.
A chair with an ergonomic yet cost-effective design would be great, but it would be even better if people could customize it to their own comfort without breaking the bank. That’s the kind of office chair heaven that this concept tries to envision, and unsurprisingly, it uses a modular design to solve that kind of problem.
Designer: Byeongjun Kang
To some extent, the typical computer chair with four to five wheels and height-adjustable backrests already has the foundations of modularity. They’re often flat-packed and require some assembly, so it’s just one step away from adjusting that design to accommodate other parts. You just need the right connections to use.
FP, or “First-Party,” Chair concept design uses a rail system to make that not only possible but also easy. The seat and the backrest are the main modular parts that can be removed and replaced by any compatible design. It starts out with completely flat designs, but these can be swapped out for ones with cushions, curves, and armrests. Anything that can fit that rail system will do as long as it keeps the chair balanced.
The base is also replaceable, though the options are probably fewer. You have the typical caster for movability or a flat platform for stability. The latter can probably be screwed down as well, which might be necessary for some mass installation. There isn’t much wiggle room for differentiation here, especially since the need for stability is even greater.
The FP Chair doesn’t differ from those mass-produced office chairs in terms of packaging convenience or assembling complexity. There are also still some limits to what modular designs can be used, such as the balance of the chair and its stability. As with any modular system, it will also depend on just how many third-party designs take advantage of this feature, though given the need for personalization and customization, one can easily imagine how big that market could be.
Whether you’re working from home or from your cubicle in the office, a lot of times we’re expected to work continuously during official work hours. But as numerous studies have proven, we need to take a break every once in a while to just rest our eyes, mind, and body. It’s easier to do it at home but when you’re in the office, you need to find your space or uncomfortably like your head on your table.
Designers: Subin Kim, Dami Seo, Da young Yoon, Sieun Cha, Gayeon Kim
Despite the negative connotation associated with the name, Lazy is a concept for a desk that will let you be “lazy” when you need to take a break. It’s a work desk and chair that has some additional features that lets you rest without needing to move somewhere else. Ideally of course you should step away when you want a break, but for those times when you can’t, then this is an alternative.
The desk has a cushion on the upper left part which lets you take a nap or even just lay your head down and close your eyes. Laying your head on a wooden desk is not that comfortable but the cushion should be a better option. Under the table are strings that lets you swing your feet around if you need some movement. There’s also a gap in the desk where you can place your laptop when not in use or books, notebooks, documents that you don’t need at the moment.
The chair that is part of the Lazy furniture matches the table. My one complaint with this though is that it doesn’t have a backrest so it might be uncomfortable if you’re sitting at your desk for some time. But otherwise, I’m looking forward to having a cushion ready at the desk for my daily nap.
Two trends that have been making its way to furniture concepts and designs are minimal and modular. Sometimes the two are not able to work together since the latter needs more elements thereby defeating the purpose of the former. But there are also times when when product designers are able to blend the two together.
The Swivel Side Table is a concept that seems to take elements from both design schools. It’s actually a conceptual evolution of hits previous concept design for a Split side table and you can see that he brought ideas from that previous experiment to the, well, side table. It’s an interesting concept that lets the user sort of customize the side table to their preference.
This time around, there’s a central metal frame which serves as the core and the main flat surface to place your coffee, book, or whatever it is that needs a side table. It looks just like a typical low cocktail table type. But what makes this concept unique is that you place CNC-cut wooden disks around the frame that is able to slide and pivot. You can swivel and customize how you arrange it and even create nooks for small items and a book or two.
Depending on the way you swivel the disks around, you either get just a usual round side table or a puzzle piece-like piece of furniture. It’s interesting to see what the designer will come up with next, side table-wise.
I am not a fan of scooters in a sense that I will never get on one. But whenever I see a Vespa, I am tempted to go back on that promise (until I remember how scared I am of two-wheeled vehicles) just because it’s very pretty and stylish. Now if I could have this aesthetic on something that I can actually use, then I would be happy.
Designer: Bel & Bel
The Scooter Chair is a swivel chair that repurposes parts of vintage Vespas to create a piece of furniture that may be as stylish as these luxury scooters. Each piece is handmade and can be customized to how you want it to look so it is also a luxury chair and may be more expensive than your regular, office swivel chair. But at least you can say you have the most stylish chair in your office if you get one.
Aside from being stylish, it is created to also be comfortable and sturdy since you will probably sit on it at least 6 hours a day. The seat is also ergonomic with its foam and upholstery finished with ribbed seams. It also has an adjustable height piston and a reclining mechanism for times when you need to rest and relax.
The customizable options include the color of the exterior structure, the type and tone of the upholstery (natural or synthetic leather), type of base (fixed or with wheels). You can also add some extra details to make it more luxurious like chrome-plated armrests, logos on the back, intermittent riders, or an original 8″ wheel and sideband. Of course all of this means you’ll have out a bit more compared to regular swivel chairs.
Coffee tables these days aren’t just places to put down books and drinks. They’re often the center of a room, specifically a living room, both in location and in design. They do more than just add visual interest in a space but, in many homes, also reflect the owner’s tastes and sometimes their aspirations.
That’s especially true if you get the opportunity to design your own coffee table or get someone to do it for you. This wood and glass design, for example, tries to capture feelings of welcoming warmth as well as structural strength. And what better way to represent those ideas than by putting the semblance of a glorious mountain right in the center of your living room.
The Rock of Gibraltar is a majestic sight that inspires awe not just with its height but with its distinctive shape as well. It’s almost like a ship resting in the ocean and a testament to the Earth’s geological history. It isn’t as imposing as other mountains, making it the perfect fit for a coffee table design.
The Vista coffee table, however, doesn’t simply mold or carve the shape of the mountain. It instead assembles layers of rosewood panels cut to the rough shape of the Rock of Gibraltar. The layers are held together by a few sticks of wood, creating very visible gaps in between each step.
The resulting aesthetic is similar to those cardboard topographic maps some students are told to make for their science projects. It’s almost like an artistic representation of a geographic form, leaving just enough details for our minds to fill in the gaps. At the same time, this layered design is like a metaphor for the natural formation of the mountain itself, built up layer by layer over hundreds if not thousands of years.
The Vista coffee table tries to combine the lofty image of mountains with the grounding materials of wood. It’s definitely a conversation starter among guests seeing it for the first time, or even between friends revisiting memories of the table’s arrival. Perhaps an unintended feature of the design is the gaps that can be used to hold or hide objects, almost like the man-made structures that have been built around the mountain, also a metaphor for the clutter that humans create around nature.
Meditation is known to offer mental well-being benefits by encouraging the observation of thoughts neutrally before refocusing attention on the breath or another focal point. Essentially, meditation encourages observing thoughts and emotions without fixating on positives or avoiding negatives. Even though meditation doesn’t demand equipment, meditation apps, cushions, chairs, pods, and innovative products could provide a helpful start and assist in sustaining the routine.
For anyone seeking a momentary escape from stress, the “Goyo” chair offers a compact solution. This avant-garde piece draws inspiration from Tibetan singing bowls used in meditation, featuring a rounded steel design that cocoons you in tranquility. The chair’s bowl-like shape, complemented by a smooth maple wood seat and stand, cocoons you, shielding you against stressors. Its ergonomically angled backrest and seat enhance comfort during meditation, while the option to strike the bowl produces soft, soothing sounds. While it has museum-like appearance, the chair is designed for relaxation and comfort, providing a peaceful oasis within a hectic day.
The Amplification Of The Senses Chair is a uniquely designed public seat along Seoul’s Han River. It enhances the environment’s natural sounds to create a relaxing ASMR experience. Crafted to encourage reflection and tranquility, the chair’s megaphone-shaped backrest amplifies river and nature sounds while blocking peripheral vision for focused serenity. Made from recycled plastic waste, it’s an eco-friendly effort that cleanses both the environment and the mind. Nature-focused, sustainable, and calming, these chairs redefine relaxation and environmental responsibility.
The Iris pod, designed by Deepak Chopra and Yves Behar, offers a tranquil sanctuary amid bustling environments. As remote work reshapes office dynamics, integrating purposeful breaks has gained significance. Iris pods, a collaboration between OpenSeed, Deepak Chopra, fuseproject, and Yves Behar, address this need. These meditation pods, located in high-traffic areas like offices, cocoon users in peaceful isolation. Studies reveal that using Iris pods enhances workflow and meditation benefits. The pods feature essential oils, immersive sound and light tech, and guided meditations curated with Chopra’s expertise.
A collaboration between a design studio and Headspace has birthed the Headspace Pod – a unique furniture piece designed for public spaces like offices, universities, and lobbies. Resembling a large curved mailbox, it offers a cushioned seat and backrest for comfortable meditation sessions. Free from screens or plugs, the pod promotes distraction-free meditation, aided by built-in directional audio. Three buttons inside the pod allow you to choose from 10-minute sessions for relaxation, refreshment, or focus. While not fully enclosed, its ergonomic design aims to provide a calming and focused atmosphere. Tailored for breaks in various public spaces, the Headspace Pod introduces a new way to meditate.
Experience nature-infused meditation with the Lakeside Meditation Pod by architect Thilina Liyanage. Resembling an egg or conch shell, this outdoor space floats on a lake, immersing yoga practitioners in natural tranquility. The pod accommodates up to 5 individuals and an instructor, accessed via a short staircase. Crafted from wood and composite panels, it blends seamlessly with its environment. Liyanage’s biophilic design approach shines through, harmonizing architecture and nature. The pod’s unique aesthetic and lakeside position offer a serene setting for meditation, capturing the essence of both design and mindfulness.
The Float Meditation Cushion ingeniously supports ergonomic comfort in yoga poses like the simplified lotus (padma asana) and kneeling (vajra asana). Molded foam achieves an ideal blend of firmness and comfort, enabling lengthy meditation without ankle or knee strain. Like an ergonomic office chair for meditation, the Float ensures proper limb, hip, and spine alignment, negating yoga mat-induced slouching. Rooted in ancient Indian and Japanese practices, the cross-legged and seiza kneeling poses offer digestive benefits, flexibility, improved blood flow, posture enhancement, focus, anxiety reduction, and energy revitalization. Welcoming beginners, the cushion aids in adopting these postures comfortably on any surface. Designed for simplicity and portability, it incorporates a strategic handle-like cutout, akin to a yoga mat’s convenience. Emphasizing optimal meditation posture, the cushion accommodates seated and kneeling positions and incorporates a magnetic attachment for added lumbar support by extending the backrest.
Integrating ‘Spatial Sound and Vibration with Established Healing Techniques’, the Opus SoundBed presents a distinct folding design that compacts to ottoman pouf dimensions. Designed by acclaimed designer Yves Béhar of fuseproject, the bed transcends being merely a therapeutic tool, resembling a chic accessory adaptable to any room and easily unfurled for meditation and healing. When fully expanded, the bed aims to offer an immersive home experience that rejuvenates the body and rejuvenates the nervous system. Through comprehensive body vibrations and spatial sound, it introduces an enhanced therapeutic approach that aids in stress reduction and the release of happiness-associated hormones.
In today’s stress-ridden world, a tech-integrated meditation headset offers much-needed solace. Layer Design’s LightVision headset, crafted for Resonate, transforms meditation into an enchanting experience. LED lights create dynamic visuals that emerge as biomorphic patterns, engaging closed eyes to trigger the brain’s frequency-following response. Wrapped in textile casing, the minimal, ergonomic design comfortably envelops the face, fostering distraction-free tranquillity. While its effectiveness raises intrigue about potential eye strain, if resolved, this headset could be the stress-relieving catalyst sought by the modern world. By merging sensory input and technology, it elevates meditation routines, potentially ushering in a new era of mental well-being.
Scaled for desktop Zen gardens, Project Rotate and Zen Garden artist Yuki Kawae collaborate on a collection of Kawaerakes and hand rakes. These downsized tools bring the meditative art of sand raking to compact spaces. Groove and ridge sets, each comprising six handheld rakes, offer diverse sand designs with their natural wood handles and white trimming. Kawae’s traditional hand rakes, featuring longer handles, allow for intricate designs. Completing the set is a sand leveller for a fresh start. Project Rotate’s simple yet innovative rake profiles amplify creative possibilities, enhancing the Zen Garden experience with intuitive tools for mindfulness and imagination.
The portable MindNap device enhances meditation by guiding deep breathing. With thumb-placed metal pads detecting biosignals, it vibrates gently for inhaled and exhaled cues. Paired with an app, one can choose from creativity, focus, relaxation, or energy settings. By analyzing internal cues like heart rate and BMP, it tailors breathing patterns to desired states, reducing stress and anxiety while improving focus and creativity. It energizes too, boosting blood flow. Available in two colors, the MindNap includes a portable leather case for on-the-go clarity and sanity in today’s demanding times.
For non-morning people, the Mudita Bell calming alarm clock offers a natural wake-up call based on circadian rhythms. It replaces pre-sleep phone scrolling with its E-Ink screen, reducing blue light exposure. Minimalist design soothes eyes pre-bed and upon waking. With acoustic sounds, it gently wakes without irritation. The clock tracks air quality and suggests improvements like humidifiers for healthier sleep. It also includes preset meditation timers, promoting overall wellness.
Ayama, an iF Design Talent Award-winning device, aids anxiety with rhythmic breathing. Resembling a stone, it expands and contracts using integrated motors for pranayama techniques, clearing energy channels to induce calm. Intuitive and adjustable, Ayama offers modes like ujjayi and kapalabhati to combat stressors, enhancing focus and tranquility. The wireless charging zen garden serves as a reminder for emotional well-being. By simplifying pranayama, Ayama empowers users to battle anxiety’s challenges, promoting relaxation and balance through a button-press and controlled breath.
To initiate your meditation practice, try experimenting to discover what aligns with your personality and daily routine. Begin with straightforward techniques, gradually extending your session time, without feeling obligated to engage in lengthy sessions.
Governors Point, an exclusive residential enclave, sits on a pristine 125-acre peninsula in Washington’s Salish Sea. Envisioned by acclaimed architect Omer Arbel, this unique community offers an exquisite mix of luxury living and deep respect for the environment. The development features 16 custom waterfront homes that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Each home is crafted to celebrate the raw beauty of the area, ensuring it complements rather than overpowers the natural setting.
Designer: Omer Arbel
Image credit: Governors Point
Governors Point’s history adds depth to its current form. Originally, the site was slated for over 300 homes and multiple marinas, but a transformative partnership between design entrepreneur Randy Bishop and the Whatcom Land Trust shifted its destiny. Their focus was on conservation, turning Governors Point into a haven for both residents and nature.
Exterior Design: Blending With Nature
The exterior of each home at Governors Point reflects Omer Arbel’s innovative approach to merging architecture with nature. The homes are placed strategically along the peninsula, with some landward facades partially buried to reduce their visual presence and make them part of the landscape.
Image credit: Governors Point
On the west-facing side, a “cloudlike” exterior skin made from cedar burl offcuts adds a striking visual feature. These cedar pieces, described as “boulder-shaped modules,” are mounted on metal standoffs and gently sway, creating a kinetic effect. Over time, moss and lichens will grow on these surfaces, adding a living, evolving element to the design.
Roofs are designed to allow the forest to grow over them, making the homes seem like natural extensions of the landscape. This design choice also offers energy efficiency, as the forest provides natural insulation.
Paths leading to the homes are discreet, guiding residents through nature in a way that contrasts the enclosed feeling of the homes—often opening up dramatically to views over the cliffs. These paths are set between retaining walls, enhancing the contrast between entering underground spaces and emerging to cliff-edge views. Landscaping is restricted to just 3,000 square feet per 1.5-acre lot, ensuring that most of the natural flora is preserved. This careful planning maintains the native beauty of Governors Point, keeping ecological integrity at the forefront.
Image credit: Governors Point
The design also respects the existing kayak route along the shoreline, ensuring that the natural recreational pathways remain unobstructed and inviting for kayakers.
Interior Design: Seamless Flow Indoors and Out
The interior of each Governors Point home reflects Arbel’s commitment to creating harmony between luxury and nature. The homes are capped at 2,900 square feet, maintaining a modest size that fits within the environment.
Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows bring in sweeping views of the Salish Sea and San Juan Islands, flooding rooms with natural light. These windows create a seamless connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, making the landscape a natural part of the home’s interior.
The living room design beautifully showcases this philosophy, featuring woven leather chairs and a low-profile marble coffee table. The living area opens directly to the outdoors, framed by boulder-like modules connecting the home to the natural world. The use of earthy tones and tactile fabrics throughout the living room maintains a sense of warmth and cohesion, while built-in shelves add functionality without overwhelming the space.
The materials used throughout the homes, like locally sourced wood and stone, add warmth and texture, while low-VOC paints and reclaimed wood floors keep the building process eco-friendly.
Fixtures from Arbel’s design firm, Bocci, are featured throughout, including custom glass pendants that bring a unique glow to the rooms. The collaboration between Omer Arbel and Bocci goes back nearly two decades, allowing Bocci’s luxurious finishes to integrate seamlessly into Arbel’s architectural projects. Skylights and open floor plans ensure that natural light fills every corner, enhancing the spaciousness while connecting each room to the outdoors.
Image credit: Governors Point
In the kitchen, an elegant concrete finish defines the space, with natural textures continuing to enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. This description is based on conceptual design elements rather than a confirmed source from the images or documents provided. Large windows frame views of the sea, while the design focuses on subtle built-in features, such as hidden storage and a minimalist aesthetic, ensuring the kitchen is functional and stylish.
The Parametric Approach: Architecture With Variation
Omer Arbel takes a parametric design approach at Governors Point—meaning the homes are crafted within a set of guidelines that allow for natural variations. Each home follows core principles but adapts to the specific conditions of its location.
Image credit: Governors Point
For example, cedar burl offcuts on the west-facing facades are arranged within set parameters but come together in unique compositions. This gives every home its personality while maintaining a consistent architectural language across the community.
Arbel’s process involves setting constraints and letting materials and site-specific factors guide the final design. This approach allows the architecture to adapt to the environment, making each home a reflection of its surroundings.
It turns construction into a creative, evolving process that celebrates unpredictability and uniqueness. Arbel also extends this parametric philosophy to interior fixtures, using materials like copper and glass to adapt to the living spaces’ flow.
Image credit: Governors Point
The master bedroom continues the organic design language with a feature wall that mimics the boulder-shaped modules seen outside. The furniture, including the bed and integrated shelving, balances the ruggedness of natural materials and refined craftsmanship. Custom Bocci lighting adds a sculptural quality, casting soft light that enhances the serene atmosphere.
Image credit: Governors Point
A Commitment to Sustainability
Governors Point is a model of sustainable architecture, with 98 of the 125 acres set aside as a nature reserve managed by the Whatcom Land Trust. This area features a 2.5-mile public access loop trail, allowing residents and visitors to explore the peninsula’s stunning natural beauty, including access to beaches and viewpoints on both sides.
Image credit: Governors Point
Keeping most of the land as a nature reserve helps protect local ecosystems, balancing development and conservation.
Each residence is capped at 2,900 square feet, with an additional 1,100 square feet allowed for garages or outbuildings. By limiting the size of the homes and restricting manicured landscaping, the development ensures that the natural surroundings remain untouched as much as possible.
Using sustainable materials, such as repurposed cedar burl offcuts for exterior cladding, reduces waste and promotes regional resource efficiency. Governors Point also bans using pesticides and harmful chemicals, protecting the local flora and fauna.
Image credit: Governors Point
Energy efficiency is key in architectural planning, with large windows designed to optimize passive solar heating while offering stunning views. The project maintains a low-density footprint by limiting the development to only 16 homes on the 27 developed acres, reducing habitat disruption and preserving wildlife corridors.
The design blends the homes into the landscape with natural features like buried facades and forest-covered roofs, setting a new standard for eco-conscious luxury.
Every once in a while, I’ll come across a horror story on my feed about accidents involving furniture toppling over and badly hurting someone. As a regularly clumsy person, it is not outside the realm of possibility that I may be a victim of this someday. The STURDY Act (Stop Tip-overs of Unstable, Risky Dressers on Youth) is a welcome development for kids and grown-ups alike. IKEA has now become the first to apply this into their new furniture line.
Designer: IKEA
The Storklinta and Gullaberg collection from IKEA come with their patented Anchor and Unlock mechanism which took into consideration the aforementioned STURDY Act’s guidelines. This way, they have made sure that their furniture are safe especially for young kids but still have the design and style associated with the Swedish brand. When properly installed, this mechanism lets you use the items as they’re meant to be used without the risk of it tipping over, even when multiple drawers are opened.
The Gullaberg collection is classic IKEA with its framed sides, tapered legs, and white and gray finishes. There are several dressers, chests, wardrobes, nightstands, and combinations available in the collection. The Storklinta has a more sleek and contemporary design and also comes with chests, drawers, bedside tables, and wardrobe combinations with the PAX system. These furniture come with clean, integrated handles.
Both collections are already available in the IKEA US stores and online but there are still some items that have limited stocks. They will also be launching more safety-enhanced designs later this year. As always, these are items that are self-assembled so you still need to be able to follow instructions on these Anchor and Unlock mechanisms for the furniture to be truly safe.
Space Perspective offers life-changing trips to the edge of space in the world’s first carbon-neutral spaceflight. This spaceship dubbed Neptune features a breathtaking design. It’s a capsule with special UV reflective coated largest glass windows ever flown to space providing occupants an unparalleled view from the space lounge inside containing eight state-of-the-art chairs designed both for comfort and aerospace experience.
The innovative seating solution for Neptune’s passengers is visibly inspired by the lounge chairs. It seamlessly merges the luxury and comfort of the lounge chair with the safety requirements of space travel to ensure the guests have not only a comfortable seat but a safe one at that.
Dubbed Aerospace Seat SPN-01, these eight dark-blue chairs in the space lounge are lightweight, functional, and safe. While meeting travel safety standards, these chairs also provide umpteen luxury courtesy of the floating backrest, ergonomic flexibility, and modular cushioning.
These aerospace seats blend a modular pad system with adjustable cushions for ergonomic comfort. Owing to their contoured shape and arced headrest, the chairs nicely cradle their passengers during the critical phases of launch and landing. Due to their positioning (each facing outwards) in the roomy space lounge, each seat has a panoramic 360-degree view through the large capsule windows.
Whilst being designed to comfort anxious passengers in their cocooning environment, the Aerospace Seat SPN-01 is easy to repair and has adjustable features to balance comfort with functionality. Designed by @ofmyimagination the chairs are twined in pairs inside of the space capsule designed to promote conversation and foster shared experiences. The chairs are placed adjacent to each other to encourage passengers to speak with each other. Each set of chairs features a mini wooden table in between that doubles as a desk. Every chair has a storage section underneath where passengers can stow their personal belongings.
Herman Miller is known better for its consortium of office chairs than for gaming chairs. But its gaming division: Herman Miller Gaming, has a new, artistic vision to turn some eyes its way. The furniture giant has partnered with FAILE, a brainchild of Patrick McNeil and Patrick Miller, to revive the nostalgia of the Arcades, Ataris, and Nintendos of the ‘80s through painting and printmaking approach on chairs, wooden Joysticks, and printed posters.
The initial idea for Herman Miller and FAILE collaboration was to work with the prints collection of the former. McNeil and Miller, however, saw varying opportunities in the furniture maker’s gaming repertoire and besides gaming-inspired printed posters and tangible painted joysticks with whimsical game-like characters, they have gone ahead to give colorful art love to Herman Miller’s ergonomic gaming seat.
Brooklyn-based collaboration between artists Patrick McNeil and Patrick Miller, FAILE, has been blurring the lines between fine art and popular culture through painting and printmaking. The choice of material is little of significance, since their collaboration since 1999, the two artists have worked with a range of materials ranging from traditional canvas to sculptures, from window pellets to wooden boxes and their idea of transforming the Embody Gaming Chair into a piece of exceptional art is therefore no surprise.
McNeil and Miller have characterized 12 variants of the Embody, using its seat and back as the canvas of distinction similar to skateboard decks. According to the duo, through the artwork, they intend to bring to ‘Herman Miller Gaming that which was not in the digital realm but captured some of the character making of gaming.’ This also extends into the creation of joysticks, which have a tactile wood feel and personality of their own that uniquely comes to life depending on the setting they’re used in.
FAILE and Herman Miller have created 100 unique characters, based on drawings and doodles. Each of these is handcrafted and painted with hand for uniqueness. While the chairs are designed exclusively for the Herman Miller Gaming archives, and are not available to purchase. Joysticks and prints are available for preorder and will go on retail starting October 1 for $995 and $250 respectively. If you want an experience of the artistic collection before committing to it, you can check them out in an installation in New York from September 27 through September 29.
Anyone who has owned a cat will know the truth about who is really the master and who is the pet. Although they can definitely be cuddly and sentimental, furry felines are also known to be temperamental and territorial. And by that, it usually means that any place in the house can be their territory. All kidding aside, cats tend to love squeezing into tight spaces, even when you’ve already provided a lush, comfy, and unfortunately very open bed. Embracing the behavior of cats and how they can be central to owners’ lives, these concept designs envision furniture for humans that cats will appreciate, or rather, cat furniture that just happens to be usable by humans.
For reasons unfathomable to all except their regal kind, cats love to squeeze into cramped spaces. Of course, they’ll still enjoy plush beds, but give them a box or a tube and their natural instincts kick in. So why not just design sleeping furniture that appeals to this behavior directly instead? Bonus points if it can also be used by their human owners, potentially letting them bond even better when resting in the same place.
That may be the thinking behind this rather unusual set of cat-friendly furniture design concepts. Or perhaps they’re human-friendly cat furniture designs. Either way, these chairs will be enjoyable to both parties, though their maintenance will probably be less so for humans. The common theme these chairs have are the armrests that act like dark tunnels, enticing cats to go inside to nap. There’s ample space for a cat or even two, so it’s not exactly a cramped and uncomfortable space at all.
Two variants of these armchair designs exist. Perhaps the more interesting one of the two has an armrest that goes around the back of the chair, creating a single tunnel that cats can walk through from end to end. There is also a more modest version where the armrests swap out tunnels for shelves, allowing owners to put other things on the side that won’t be used by the cat, presuming the cat doesn’t claim that space and pushes the vase off the shelf.
There is even a stool design where the very low backrest curves inward, creating that same tunnel shape where the cat can lie inside behind you. Truth be told, the seats don’t look too comfortable, especially with the backrests so low. They might have been unintentionally designed with feline comfort as the priority, showing who the real master of the house is. That said, they are indeed interesting designs and, to some extent, quite feasible, though the question of how to clean up after the cat inside those armrests still remains.
An “ergonomic chair” is designed to accommodate a wide range of individuals but must be tailored to the user’s body dimensions, workstation, and tasks for true ergonomics. Prolonged sitting, despite requiring less physical effort than demanding tasks, poses significant health risks such as back pain, stiff necks, and leg numbness, strain muscles, ligaments, and tendons, increasing the risk of discomfort and injury. Corrections are necessary for better ergonomics and to prevent discomfort or injury. Here are features to consider when selecting an ergonomic chair.
An adjustable seat height is essential for comfort, allowing your feet to rest flat on the floor ensuring that most individuals can keep their feet flat on the ground, maintain horizontal thighs, and align their arms evenly with the desk height. Note that a seat height range of 16 to 21 inches is usually comfortable for most people.
The NEWTRAL MagicH chair adapts to the user with an auto-following backrest and headrest, providing support whether sitting upright, leaning forward, or reclining. It accommodates various sitting styles, ensuring comfort and promoting healthy posture. The Pro model includes a foldable footrest and 4D Extended Armrest for comprehensive support, with adjustable features tailored to individual needs, enhancing overall comfort and preventing injuries.
2. Seat Width and Depth
The seat dimensions should ensure comfort by accommodating individual height and body shapes. It should maintain a depth that leaves 2 to 4 inches between its edge and the back of your knees to avoid excessive pressure.
The Routine Chair by Yubin Lee and Minkyoung Song is a smart, ergonomic chair that adjusts the headrest, armrests, and reclining angle based on an app-controlled schedule. Designed for optimal comfort and productivity, it offers three modes—work, chill, and rest—automatically adapting to the user’s routine. Competing with top brands like Herman Miller, this innovative chair ensures seamless comfort and support, making it ideal for professionals in a digital work environment.
3. Seat Tilt
In office chairs, the tilt mechanism plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy, properly aligned spine and back. The tension and strength within the tilt mechanism ensure adequate support for your back.
The 5° Chair by Seoul-based design firm 250 Design is tailored for those who naturally lean back in chairs. With 360° rotation, forward and backward tilting, and lateral movement up to 5 degrees, it offers dynamic seating for office or home use. Designed to support prolonged sitting, its cushioning molds to the body’s contours, while angled wave springs reinforce the legs for multidirectional tilting. This compact chair, ideal for small spaces, replaces traditional wheels with a swivel and spindle mechanism, ensuring stability and support without sacrificing mobility.
4. Backrest Lumbar Support
Lower back support is vital in an ergonomic chair to maintain the natural curve of the lumbar spine. An essential feature of ergonomic chairs, lumbar support maintains the spine’s natural curve, reducing stress and preventing slumping. Adjustable backrests ensure optimal alignment for user comfort.
The Typo Office Chair by AMDL Circle, designed for Mara, excels in providing comfort, ergonomics, and aesthetics, all essential for productivity. Its playful yet ergonomic design boasts a curved timber base and backrest, complemented by a colorful metal structure. This intentional blend of materials not only enhances comfort but also adds personality to the chair, turning what might seem like a mistake into a defining feature.
The LEVUS offers a reclined work setup, perfect for reducing back pain and discomfort for those who spend long hours at a computer. Ideal for both home and office use, it features an adjustable, lightweight aluminum structure that supports multiple monitors and includes an adjustable headrest, mouse station, and keyboard table. The ergonomic design reduces vertical spine pressure, making it a comfortable choice for gamers, creators, and office workers alike. Easy to assemble and designed for ultimate comfort, the LEVUS transforms traditional workstations into ergonomic havens.
5. Backrest Recline
The backrest of an ergonomic office chair, ideally 12 to 19 inches wide, should support the natural spine curve with proper lumbar support easing pressure on spinal disks and muscles by distributing upper body weight. If the chair has a combined seat and backrest, it should offer adjustable angles and a locking mechanism to prevent excessive backward movement.
In the dynamic landscape of offices and remote work, traditional chairs and desks often strain the spine with vertical pressure, despite the advent of standing desks. The LEVUS chair offered a reclined design as a solution, but ErgoQuest’s ZGW-0b zero-gravity reclining workstation takes innovation further. Engineered to alleviate back and neck pain, it allows for customizable work angles from zero to ninety degrees, featuring the motorized ErgoQuest ZGC-1 chair and accommodating up to four monitors on a sturdy steel mast. Packed with conveniences like side tables and a padded keyboard tray, it prioritizes comfort and productivity. The ZGW-0b represents a new paradigm in work setups, blending laziness with postural wellness for enhanced efficiency.
6. Armrests
Armrests provide valuable support during typing or using the mouse by taking the weight off your arms, reducing strain on the shoulders and upper arms. Adjustable armrests allow vertical movement to position them correctly and promote shoulder relaxation.
The Nouhaus Ergo3D is no ordinary ergonomic chair; it’s a high-back marvel with dynamic lumbar support, 4D adjustable armrests, and a class-4 hydraulic gas-lift main pillar, all for a fraction of the price of similar models. Designed to exude luxury by Nouhaus, it offers personalized spine support and cranium comfort, thanks to its unique features like the ‘Just-For-Me’ Lumbar Support System and adjustable headrest. Clad in breathable HD ElastoMesh fabric, it ensures comfort during long hours of use.
7. Headrest
Supporting the back of the head and upper neck, it alleviates tension in the shoulders and upper torso.
8. Materials
The material covering the seat and back of the office chair should be adequately padded for extended sitting comfort, with breathable cloth fabric being preferable, while options like leather or velvet are commonly found in high-end models.
The Path Task Chair by Humanscale stands out for its sustainability, using 22 pounds of recycled materials, including ocean plastic and fishing nets. Made in the USA in a solar-powered plant, it minimizes carbon emissions and water use. The chair features FormSense Eco Knit for self-adjusting lumbar support and a Gravity Mechanism that adjusts recline support without knobs or levers. Designed by Todd Bracher, it combines innovative materials and mechanics with a sleek design, fitting seamlessly into any home or office. Available in various colors, the Path Task Chair exemplifies sustainable and ergonomic seating.
9. Wheels
Soft rubber wheels are ideal for hard surfaces, while hard wheels are better suited for carpeted floors.
Volkswagen’s surprising venture into office furniture yields a unique mobile office chair, blending automotive innovation with functional design. Crafted by their Commercial Vehicles division in collaboration with Try, this electric chair boasts a top speed of 12.4 m/h and a range of 7.5 miles. Complete with a rear-view camera, 360-degree sensors, and an entertainment system loaded with feel-good songs, it caters to both practicality and comfort. With storage compartments for gadgets and a trailer hitch for paperwork, it’s a whimsical yet functional addition to any workspace.
10. Swivel
For proper posture, any traditional or ergonomic chair should rotate effortlessly, enabling the user to access various areas of their desk without strain.
These tips will certainly assist you in buying the best ergonomic chair for your office or home.
Connexion
presents a distinct folding design that compacts to ottoman pouf dimensions. Designed by acclaimed designer Yves Béhar of fuseproject, the bed transcends being merely a therapeutic tool, resembling a chic accessory adaptable to any room and easily unfurled for meditation and healing. When fully expanded, the bed aims to offer an immersive home experience that rejuvenates the body and rejuvenates the nervous system. Through comprehensive body vibrations and spatial sound, it introduces an enhanced therapeutic approach that aids in stress reduction and the release of happiness-associated hormones.
