Coffee machines and luggage aren’t necessarily two things that you think of that go together. Sure, when you travel, you get to experience different kinds of coffee places but you don’t necessarily lug around all your coffee paraphernalia. Well, some people actually do, but they’re the exception. When it comes to design though, coffee machines and expensive luggage aren’t really that distant so it’s interesting to see what a collaboration between two brands of those categories would look like.

Designer: Rimowa x La Marzocco

Look no further as we’re getting a Rimowa x La Marzocco Linea Mini coffee machine that brings the best of both worlds into a limited edition product. The exterior features the classic aluminum groove look and silver steel that we’re used to seeing in Rimowa suitcases but this time it’s used in the Linea Mini, a professional-grade kitchen-scaled espresso machine. Most of the parts of this machine are crafted from anodized aluminum. In fact, each of the machines are handcrafted for around 40 hours in Florence, Italy. The grooved panels were actually built in the Rimowa factory in Cologne and then assembled and installed by hand in La Marzocco’s workshop.

When it comes to features, it’s your typical espresso machine that can give you your much needed caffeine fix. Only this one has more style because of the addition of Rimowa’s signature look to what’s already a pretty stylish La Marzocco aesthetic. Both of them have their branding on the base and the frame of the machine. The minimalist aluminum feel plus the bespoke accents like the hot water tap and knobs gives off a very high-end Italian coffee shop vibe.

The Rimowa x La Marzocco Linea Mini was displayed at the recently concluded Milan Design Week. You can apparently already pre-order the machine although it’s not indicated how much and where you can actually place your order. Because these two brands are coming together, expect that the price to own a stylish espresso machine will be steep.

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We live in an “instant” civilization where we can get what we want almost instantly. Words appear on the screen as fast as our fingers can fly, cup noodles can be done and ready for consumption in less than five minutes, and bread jumps out of the toaster just a few seconds after simply pressing down on a switch. Can you imagine, then, the frustration of having to slowly type out each letter, or manually turning a loaf of bread every minute to make sure it’s properly toasted without burning to a crisp? Of course, no one will want to go back to those not-so-good old days, at least no one in their right mind. That said, such an unimaginable situation could also be an opportunity for a ridiculous invention, which is what this seemingly antiquated typewriter does, making you slowly type each and every letter to adequately toast a bread loaf.

Designer: Ritika Kedia

The idea of typing on an old-school typewriter to toast bread is beyond absurd. The two have almost nothing in common, except perhaps the starting letter of each word. It’s definitely an exercise in patience and futility, one that could make you lose your appetite even before you get a single word out. But like what happens in real life, some ridiculous and frustrating situations can become comic relief if done right, which is exactly what the Toaster Typewriter represents.

The design is practically a Frankenstein of two very mechanical products, a classical typewriter and a bread toaster with much of its outer shell stripped off. Certain letters on the typebar are covered with food-grade clay and have wires coiled around them. The cobbled machine uses multiple transformers to not only power the toaster but also generate heat for the keys, resulting in a composition that looks more like a prop from a sci-fi flick from the 50s or 60s.

The idea is to simply slide in a loaf of bread like you would on a regular toaster, and then slide the toaster box across the typewriter as if it were a piece of paper. Once the letters are sufficiently hot, you press hard on a key and then wait for that letter to be burned onto the bread’s surface. Rinse and repeat until you finally have your desired toast, unless you lose your sanity first.

As you can probably tell, the Toaster Typewriter technically works but it’s impractical and pretty much useless. That’s exactly the point of the design, however, as a paradigm shift toward more entertaining, even comical, designs. The design space has become too serious for its own good. While product designs definitely need to address certain needs and requirements, there is also room for some more entertaining and humorous designs that bring delight in one way or another. Of course, such designs shouldn’t frustrate people the way this Toaster Typewriter does, but good designs need to be able to include more human elements, including human expressions of joy and laughter.

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If you’ve been slowly entering the culinary world, and are currently a novice chef on a mission to become an accomplished chef who can whip up delicious meals, then you’ve reached the right place. The key to preparing amazing dishes is having a streamlined and efficient cooking process, which can be achieved with the help of the right kitchen appliances and tools. With the perfect kitchen accessories, you can create fantastic meals within no time, and with minimum hassles. If you’re someone who likes quick and easy-to-fix meals, then we’ve curated the perfect collection of kitchen utensils for you. From an Iron Frying Plate that lets you cook and serve meals on it to a space-themed kitchen appliance that merges a microwave and an air fryer – these top-notch kitchen products are for you.

1. Iron Frying Plate

If you’re looking for handy and innovative kitchen appliances, that help you cook up a storm in no time, while retaining delicious flavors, then the Iron Frying Plate is what you need. It is a one-of-a-kind kitchen utensil that functions as a serving plate and a frying pan, owing to its nifty removable handle.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Iron Frying Plate merges a frying pan and a serving plate to build a unique kitchen fool that not only cooks but also serves your meals. The plate supports direct-from-the-pan serving and is crafted using durable materials, offering you a refreshing method of cooking and serving.

What we like

• The wooden handle is removable, allowing the plate to be used as a frying pan and a serving platter

What we dislike

• Since it is crafted from iron, it is quite heavy and tough to store and operate

2. NEVO Microwave Oven

Meet the NEVO Microwave Oven – a unique kitchen design that looks like an IKEA or ACE toolbox, but is in fact a cutting-edge microwave that attempts to amplify cooking convenience and simplicity. It merges design, innovation, and industrial aesthetics to create a microwave that is well-suited for modern homes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The NEVO Microwave Oven features an intuitive user interface, which makes control and operation easier than ever. You can control a whole bunch of complicated options, which can be otherwise challenging and daunting for most microwave users.

What we like

• Features a thoughtfully designed touch user interface

What we dislike

• Occupies a lot of counter space, which isn’t a good option for those with minimum kitchen real estate

3. Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors

These are the Precision Chef Kitchen Scissors, and they’ve been designed with a curved serrated blade that will slice through your food pretty fast. They’re great for cutting some steaks on the dining table, allowing you to display your wonderful meat-cutting skills.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The scissors are jet-black in color, and they have a wonderful aura of power and style, which allows them to have an impressive place in your kitchen while letting you efficiently and skillfully chop your veggies, meat, pizza, and more.

What we like

• Feature a curved serrated blade that cuts through meat swiftly and safely
• Cutting becomes an easy and quick step of your food prep process

What we dislike

• Only available in black, no other color options to choose from

4. Fooding

Designed by Yifeeling Design, this conceptual design Fooding merges the best of the microwave and an air fryer. The unique appliance is inspired by the bulbous shape of an astronaut’s helmet, and it combines the user-friendly form of the microwave, and the air fryer’s ability to cook some tasty and healthy meals.

Why is it noteworthy?

Since Fooding is the unique combination of a microwave and an air-fryer, it occupies less space in the kitchen, while providing you with delicious meals. It is a one-stop shop for using both appliances.

What we like

• Compact form that combines the microwave’s rectangular shape with the air fryer’s rounded edges

What we dislike

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

5. PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tong

Meet the PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tong – these unique tongs are shaped like chopsticks, and they’re used to pick up and handle small pieces of food with total ease. You can easily pick them up, and turn them over on the pan – much like an expert chef! They’re crafted from lightweight and durable SUS821L1 stainless steel.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.00

Why is it noteworthy?

You can use the delicate tongs to prepare lunch boxes, or even consume sushi, as there is no wrong way to hold and handle the utensil. These tongs are designed to last you a lifetime, and they have a special metal processing which makes sure the jet black color doesn’t peel or scratch off.

What we like

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

What we dislike

• Difficult to use for larger pieces and cuts

6. STEAMIE

Named STEAMIE, this kitchen appliance reintroduces steam into mainstream cooking! It can cook food without diluting or compromising on the flavor, providing you with healthy food, that is not only rich in nutrients but also pretty delicious. It is a tabletop appliance that will present you with food that is nutritious and delicious.

Why is it noteworthy?

STEAMIE is equipped with a built-in scale that lets you measure your food before you cook it. It also features a bamboo-wood lid that functions as a cutting board for food prep. You can watch your food being prepared via the frosted-acrylic food bowl, while an intuitive display lets you input and check prep times.

What we like

•  Utilizes a unique turbo convection method to rapidly steam-cook the food

What we dislike

• Bulky and heavy form that will occupy substantial space on your kitchen counter or dining table

7. Chao

Say hello to Chao – an AI-powered social cooking platform which is created to reduce the hassle of meal planning, and the difficulties we encounter while cooking. Chao is designed to make your daily cooking experience more accessible, easy, and enjoyable as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

Chao uses intelligent machine vision to ensure that all the utensils are used correctly, which is great for new cooks. It also attempts to make cooking a joyful social collaboration, where users can prepare and enjoy meals together.

What we like

• Allows users from all corners of the globe to create and prepare meals, forming a global culinary community

What we dislike

• It is currently a concept, so we are unsure how functional and user-friendly it will be in reality

8. Playful Palm Grater

Ever in the mood to grate some fresh garnishes onto your meal? Well, then you need to get your hands on the Playful Palm Grater. This little product is designed to add some functional fun to your kitchen space, and it also fits completely into the palm of your hand, letting you grate fresh garnishing.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

The post Top 10 Kitchen Appliances To Help Novice Chefs With Quick & Easy Cooking first appeared on Yanko Design.

There are now several ways to get fresh and healthy meals delivered to you, but the best option is still to cook them yourself. You get to decide on the ingredients and the process, plus you can probably even save money in the long run. That said, cooking isn’t always easy or convenient, especially when you’re not at home or don’t even have access to a kitchen. Portable cooking equipment is slowly becoming an option, but many still fall short of providing convenience other than having a hot surface to cook on. This induction cooktop concept tries to address many of those shortcomings with features that help you cook smartly and safely while also borrowing the clean and minimalist aesthetic that the brand Braun is best known for.

Designer: Jenil Shah

While it’s true that all you need to cook most food is a hot surface for pans and pots, that is really just the most basic cooking experience and definitely not the most convenient. There are other factors you have to consider while cooking, not least of which is the smoke that cooking produces. Keeping tabs on the food you’re cooking or even the ingredients you will be using is also part of the process, and the SY10 portable smart induction cooktop wants to make those parts as painless as possible.

Somewhat ironically, the induction surface itself is the least exciting part of this design considering how the technology has more or less been perfected at this point. Instead, parts like the built-in Smart Air Filter offer a more interesting, especially since it’s almost invisible as part of the design. When you’re not in your kitchen, having access to a range hood with fans is almost impossible, and even at home those usually only suck up the smoke and nothing more. The SY10’s, however, uses carbon filters to remove not just harmful smoke but also odors, keeping indoor air clean without making too much noise. The filter lies horizontally right next to the cooktop, but if you have a taller pot or cookware, you can actually rotate the filter to make it stand, ensuring that no smoke escapes its fans.

Most induction stovetops use touch-based interfaces to really capture that futuristic aesthetic, but it also makes them more confusing to handle and definitely less satisfying. The SY10’s Infinity Dial adds some good old-fashioned haptic feedback when you turn its ring, while a large circular display delivers instant information about the menus and functions you’re using. Amusingly, the dial requires you to squeeze its body to confirm an action rather than tapping that display, further emphasizing the physical dimension. Its more interesting feature, however, is a built-in camera and computer vision capabilities which allow it to look at a particular food or ingredient and determine whether it’s still good to use or if it’s going bad. And yes, that means you can actually detach the dial to use this function.

The SY10 design also includes a motherboard and other electronics to power its smart features, though its compact design might raise questions about the heat management that could affect those more sensitive parts. It does, however, need to be that compact in order to implement its portability, which would allow you to set up a small kitchen anywhere, whether indoors or outdoor, or even connect two such cooktops together. Those are important implementation details that need to be ironed out, but the concept remains an interesting one that could help take out some of the worries when cooking your meals away from home or even at home.

The post Portable Smart Induction Cooktop concept lets you cook healthy meals anywhere first appeared on Yanko Design.

For professional landscapers and property managers of sprawling green spaces, achieving that perfectly manicured lawn can be a constant battle. Traditionally, robotic mowers have relied on boundary wires to define their work area. This not only requires time-consuming installation but also presents a challenge during maintenance or landscaping projects. Husqvarna, a name synonymous with outdoor power equipment (and also motorcycles), is shaking things up with the Automower 520 EPOS, a revolutionary robot mower that ditches the wires in favor of a sophisticated GPS navigation system.

Designer: Husqvarna

Designed for tackling large areas of up to 5,000 square meters (roughly 1.2 acres), the Automower 520 EPOS boasts an impressive ability to handle slopes as steep as 45 degrees. This makes it ideal for managing expansive properties like parks, sports complexes, or corporate campuses. The key innovation lies in the EPOS system, which does away with the need for physical boundary wires. Instead, it utilizes a network of satellites and a reference station to create a virtual work zone. This not only saves time on installation but also eliminates the risk of accidentally damaging wires during other lawn maintenance tasks.

The mower seamlessly integrates with Husqvarna Fleet Services, a comprehensive app-based management system. Imagine the convenience of remotely controlling and monitoring your entire fleet of mowers from your smartphone or computer. The app allows for functionalities like simultaneous operation of multiple mowers, real-time location tracking, and even adjusting mowing schedules based on weather conditions. An alarm system deters potential theft, while automatic weather timers ensure the mower adapts its schedule to avoid rain or excessive heat, maximizing its efficiency and protecting the health of the lawn.

The mower employs a systematic mowing pattern, ensuring a consistently well-maintained lawn. The tiny grass clippings it leaves behind are finely mulched and returned to the soil, acting as a natural fertilizer. This eco-friendly approach not only eliminates the need for bagging and disposal of clippings but also contributes to a healthier, greener landscape. Furthermore, the mower boasts features like over-the-air software updates and a patented cutting height adjustment system, ensuring it stays at the forefront of lawn care technology.

While the initial cost of the Automower 520 EPOS might seem like a significant investment, the long-term benefits for professional lawn care providers are undeniable. Reduced labor costs due to automation, improved efficiency through remote management, and a consistently pristine lawn all contribute to a significant return on investment. The Automower 520 EPOS represents a glimpse into the future of lawn maintenance, a future where robotic mowers operate with precision and autonomy, guided by the power of GPS technology. This innovative solution not only frees up valuable time and resources but also paves the way for a more sustainable approach to maintaining sprawling green spaces.

The post Husqvarna launches new Autonomous Lawnmower With Built-in GPS first appeared on Yanko Design.

Projectors are becoming a popular alternative to extra large screens like TVs, mostly at home but sometimes even outdoors. Product design trends have started to move away from bulky boxes to more compact forms, but most of them are still restricted by a few design considerations. Even projectors that are supposedly designed for portability often come with clunky and sometimes unattractive stands, or worse, require setting up on tripods just to get the perfect angle. This concept design tries to solve that problem in a rather creative way, offering a highly compact and portable projector that can be propped up and angled conveniently, all without using a tripod or even a stand.

Designer: Hana Belassi

Thanks to progress in technology and manufacturing, it’s now possible to cram much of the electronics that powered large, hulking projectors into something the size of a small box or even a cylinder. But despite the smaller designs, or probably because of their more cramped designs, these portable projectors often rely on an external mechanism like a tripod or stand to prop them up at the desired angle. Not only does this ruin the aesthetics of the otherwise beautiful product, it also makes it cumbersome to bring the projector along wherever you go.

The Slim.VU concept tries to offer the ultimate on-the-go entertainment experience by encapsulating all the needed parts and design in a single, compact, and portable package. A projector with a built-in battery is not exactly new, but one that comes with 4G connectivity is still unheard of. That enables the projector to function not only without an external power source but even without a Wi-Fi connection, allowing it to access streaming sources without having to use up your phone’s cellular data.

The more interesting aspect of the projector’s design, however, is the built-in stand that looks nothing like a stand. The removable “cap” of this tumbler-like projector functions as this stand, holding the projector in its place magnetically. The curved shape of this stand lets you rotate the cylindrical projector and angle it properly. This way, you don’t need any other accessory to enjoy a video anytime you want, anywhere you go.

The Slim.VU projector concept contains everything you need, freeing you from concerns about power, connectivity, and stability. Of course, actually implementing such a projector is a different matter entirely, and it might need to make a few compromises in exchange for its compact form. Audio and video quality might actually take a hit just to cram this much technology inside a canister shape, making the portable projector less ideal for outdoor use, or even indoor when there’s too much ambient light.

The post Tumbler-shaped portable projector concept promises entertainment freedom first appeared on Yanko Design.

They say big things come in small packages! And I could not agree more. Sometimes the most inconsequential-looking products can be packed with a whole load of utility. And this is certainly true in the case of kitchen appliances and tools. Space constraint is a major issue in our modern-day cramped kitchens, and shoving a whole bunch of bulky and space-consuming kitchen appliances in them is almost impossible! Hence, we’ve curated a collection of compact kitchen designs that do not compromise on functionality, despite their size. These handy kitchen products will occupy minimum space in your kitchen while providing maximum functionality!

1. Hybrid Kitchen Aid

Dubbed the Hybrid Kitchen Aid, this innovative and groundbreaking kitchen appliance is designed to support and boast multiutility while excelling in adaptability, economical use, and storage efficiency.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is an exceptional design that merges the functions of multiple devices into one compact and adaptable machine. The classic French press inspires it and allows you to execute tasks such as blending, grinding, and kneading, creating an all-in-one solution for your kitchen needs.

What we like

• Features inversion of the motor placement, a deviation from traditional food processors
• Features a telescopic arm as well

What we dislike

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

2. Jamonero

Meet the Jamonero, the creation of a Barcelona-based design that created a unique solution to accommodate ham stands in your kitchen. The folding ham stand is designed to hold your ham in place while you slice it.

Why is it noteworthy?

When you don’t need Jamonero, you can fold and tuck it away into a drawer to make space for other kitchen accessories. It is an extremely useful kitchen product for when your dining table or kitchen isn’t large enough.

What we like

• Features an anti-slip feature that keeps the holder and ham in place
• Quite easy to clean and maintain

What we dislike

• Certain users may be uncomfortable using wood to hold their meat, and there is no alternative material available for them

3. Iron Frying Plate

This innovative kitchen product is called the Iron Frying Plate, and it’s a multifunctional design that you can use to serve your food or as a frying pan with a removable handle. It is a unique and refreshing new method to combine cooking and eating!

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Iron Frying Plate is a super cool design as it merges a frying pan and serving plate, offering a functional and elegant solution for cooking and serving. It introduces an ingenious new cooking method, that facilitates direct-from-the-pan serving, allowing you to use one product to fulfill two kitchen needs, and eliminating the requirement for more appliances.

What we like

• The wooden handle can be attached and detached as and when needed, allowing the product to transform

What we dislike

• It is made from iron, making it heavier than conventional frying pans, so it can be tough to handle and store

4. Home Garden

Named Home Garden, this herb garden allows you to have access to fresh greens all year round without sacrificing precious real estate in your home or causing a major mess. It has a neat compact form that works great for small urban apartments or big suburban houses.

Why is it noteworthy?

The designer drew inspiration for this design from his own life. “My mom is a real culinary virtuoso and she often complains about the lack of specific greens in the store. And then I got the idea to design a home garden that will be built into the kitchen and will delight with greenery all year round,” he explains.

What we like

• Equipped with an integrated smart system that monitors the moisture and temperature of plants

What we dislike

• We’re unsure whether it can be customized and tailored to personal requirements

5. Playful Palm Grater

Named the Playful Palm Grater, this playful little product is designed to add some functionality and fun to your kitchen and dining life and space. It fits perfectly into the palm of your hand!

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

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