It is easy to take for granted how much technology we surround ourselves with every day, but somehow, even surrounded by screens, real connections at home can feel harder than ever. That is the challenge at the heart of ITDA, a concept design from Korea that aims to help families find each other again in the most gentle and thoughtful way possible.

The name ITDA comes from a Korean word that means “to connect,” and that philosophy runs through every detail. This is not just another smart gadget or an app notification fighting for your attention. Instead, ITDA is a collection of gentle, tactile objects designed to quietly restore the little moments we have been missing, those exchanges of feeling and warmth that get lost in the shuffle of daily life.

Designers: Hyunwoo Jung, Yehoon Cho, Sieun Cha, Gayeon Kim

At the center of the system is TOPI, a device that looks more like a minimalist home sculpture than anything you would expect from a tech product. Set it on the kitchen table or by the entryway, and it becomes a gentle hub for conversation. Instead of sending out alerts or lighting up with endless information, TOPI introduces topics when family members are together, using a display that feels inviting rather than commanding. There is even a little shelf on its back for keys or treasures, which feels like a reminder that the belongings we carry say as much about us as our words do.

The rest of the collection is just as quietly clever. TILO gives a more humane spin on that drab office time card. Instead of something you dread, it welcomes you home with a familiar voice as soon as you step in the door and put in your personal card. It is the kind of touch that could easily become a small but meaningful ritual, the sound of someone who cares, right when you need it most.

Then there is TOK, a pebble-shaped device made for those times when words are tough to find. Instead of forcing a conversation, TOK lets you send a simple signal, by inserting the pebble-shaped object into TOPI that matches your mood, messages that say, “I am thinking of you,” or “I would like to talk.” It is nonverbal, simple, and maybe even a little poetic, especially for anyone who has ever wished they could reach out without having to explain everything.

What is striking about ITDA is how little it asks of you. There are no complicated screens to navigate, no endless setup menus, and no pressure to perform. The forms are gentle and approachable, meant to blend into your home rather than take it over. Every element, from the way you interact with the devices to the materials themselves, feels designed for comfort and calm.

It is worth remembering that ITDA is just a concept right now, not something you can buy and plug in tomorrow. But as a piece of design thinking, it feels especially timely. In a world where smart often means louder, brighter, and busier, ITDA turns the volume down and gently nudges us back toward each other. Maybe that is the real innovation: a reminder that sometimes, the most important connections do not happen on a screen, they happen in the quiet spaces we make for each other.

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Ever feel like AI is always hiding in the background, tucked away on your phone or buried behind a dozen browser tabs? Most of us interact with digital assistants through screens, which, let’s be honest, makes technology feel a little distant from our actual lives. But what if AI could be more present, accessible, and even a little bit stylish? That’s where the Copilot Fellow concept comes in, and honestly, it’s hard not to get a little excited about the idea.

The Copilot Fellow isn’t just another gadget to add to your collection. Picture a pill-shaped device, smooth and minimal, with a flat front and back. The front features a camera and a bold Copilot button, the heart of the design. Tap it, and you’re instantly connected to your AI assistant, ready to ask a question, set a reminder, or get a quick weather update. It’s designed to be intuitive, something you can operate without fiddling around or losing your train of thought.

Designer: Braz de Pina

What really makes Copilot Fellow stand out, though, are the four shortcut buttons, two on each side, that you can program for your favorite prompts or voice commands. Imagine setting one for “What’s on my calendar?” and another for “Send a quick note.” There’s no scrolling through endless menus or getting lost in settings. It’s simple, direct, and focused on the way you actually use AI day to day.

Now, here’s a little twist to that premise: While the front is all about that single, satisfying Copilot button, the back features a discreet screen. If you want to read your prompts or see some quick info, it’s there. But since it’s hidden away on the reverse side, it never gets in the way. This design choice keeps your interactions as screen-free as you want them to be, which feels like a breath of fresh air in our notification-heavy world.

One of the coolest things about Copilot Fellow is how you can wear it. You’re not locked into any one style, it works as a pendant around your neck, or you can just toss it in your pocket. It feels less like another gadget and more like a little presence you carry with you, always ready to help but never demanding attention. There’s something almost companion-like about it, which is a big leap from the usual “Hey Siri” or “Okay Google” voice floating out of your phone.

It’s important to remember that this is still a concept design, and Microsoft is unlikely to make one itself. But honestly, wouldn’t it be cool if someone DIY’ed their own version? The simplicity and flexibility make it feel approachable, even for tinkerers. Copilot Fellow reimagines how we might invite AI into our lives: more personal, more tangible, and a lot more stylish. Would you wear your AI around your neck, or are you sticking with the old-school phone in your pocket? Either way, this concept makes us rethink what AI gadgets could be.

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Now that you’re an adult, taking your temperature is no big deal—maybe even pretty routine. But if you think back to when you were a kid, it was sometimes more of a struggle with your parents, especially if you were really feeling under the weather. There aren’t any needles involved, but it can still be a scary experience for young children, particularly when they don’t understand what’s happening. But what if checking their temperature could be a bit more fun and playful?

That’s the idea behind the Ducky Thermometer for Kids—a concept thermometer designed to bring comfort, safety, and a touch of fun to a child’s health routine. As its name suggests, it’s shaped like an adorable, friendly rubber ducky that helps put kids at ease by making them feel like they’re just playing. It can transform a potentially stressful moment into an engaging and playful interaction.

Designer: Geonwoo Kang

The ducky shape isn’t just adorable and inviting for kids—it’s thoughtfully designed to fit comfortably in small hands, allowing children to hold it themselves. This sense of involvement can help reduce anxiety, as kids feel more in control when they’re able to participate in the process, such as helping a parent position the thermometer on their forehead. To make the experience even more engaging, there’s a sound mode that can be adjusted with a slider, adding a playful touch to every temperature check.

What makes this thermometer even more unique is the display at the bottom of the duck, which shows the child their temperature—not with numbers, which might be confusing or intimidating—but with expressive ducky faces. There are three kinds of duckies to represent different temperature ranges: Active Ducky, with a smiling and happy look, represents a normal temperature; Resting Ducky, sitting down with a worried expression, appears if there’s a mild fever; and Sick Ducky, who looks unwell, shows up when the child has a high fever.

Although the product renders don’t show it, including a display for parents to view the exact temperature would be a valuable addition, as this information is essential for assessing and managing a child’s illness. Even so, small innovations like the Ducky Thermometer remind us that parenting doesn’t have to be all stress and worry. By blending playful design with practical functionality, Ducky turns everyday health checks into moments of comfort and connection—helping both parents and children feel a little more at ease, no matter what the day brings.

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There is something oddly frustrating about fishing around for the right key while juggling a phone, bag, or coffee cup. Traditional key holders sometimes make things tidier, but they still leave you with a tangle of metal, mystery jingles, and the occasional scratch on your favorite gadget. The simple act of grabbing a key shouldn’t feel like a daily puzzle, yet for many of us, it somehow does.

Key holders have existed for ages, but their designs rarely change. After all, keys are just keys, right? That’s why when an entrepreneur set out to rethink this small but stubborn daily problem, they partnered with a design team to create a truly clever alternative. The result is Keyo—a sleek, minimal organizer that borrows inspiration from those classic multi-cartridge pens you might remember from school.

Designer: Diego Mata, NOS Design

Keyo is compact, with a shape that feels natural in your hand or pocket. It’s designed to simplify one of those little interactions you repeat countless times a week. The hard plastic shell protects your keys from scratches and damage, while also keeping them from scratching anything else in your pocket or bag. It’s the kind of thoughtful upgrade that makes you wonder how you ever managed the old way.

The real fun comes with the sliding mechanism. With a satisfying click, you can deploy each of the three stored keys individually, so you always get the one you want, right when you need it. No more fumbling or flipping through a ring of lookalikes. This smooth action feels almost like using a fancy pen: one push, one key, and you’re set.

Keyo’s design also means less noise and less clutter. By housing everything inside a lightweight and durable shell, it cuts down on the jangling sound that follows most keychains. The body is available in several colors, making it easy to match your mood or style. Whether you prefer understated black or something a bit more playful, there’s a version for everyone.

Inside, the mechanism is designed to fit a wide variety of key shapes and sizes. The length of Keyo is carefully tuned to accommodate the most common key heads on the market, so you don’t need to order custom keys or make modifications. Just load them in and you’re ready to go, no fuss or extra trips to the hardware store required.

It’s the sort of concept that makes everyday life just a little smoother. With Keyo, searching for the right key becomes a thing of the past, replaced by a quick, intuitive motion that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. For anyone tired of the daily key shuffle, it’s a smart solution waiting to be brought into reality.

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I don’t really pay that much attention to the lighting at home, in the office, or whichever coffee shop I end up working in. As long as the light is good enough for me to work or read properly, then I’m satisfied. That’s probably because I’m not involved in designing the space, so I can’t really do anything about it. But if you love looking for lighting solutions that can adapt to your needs, then this concept may capture your attention.

The Wipro EcoLumi Flex is a concept for a modular, sustainable lighting system that functions as both a table lamp and a suspended ceiling light, featuring easy adjustability, customizable layouts, and a slidable shade for glare control. It enhances well-being with auto mode circadian lighting, allowing users to personalize brightness and color temperature throughout the day for optimal comfort and productivity.

Designers: Utkarsh Kulkarni, Sreya Acharyya

Its clever design features a smart, easy-to-use adjustability mechanism. With just a gentle twist, you can fine-tune both the height and the angle of the lamp. Whether you’re working at your desk or want to reimagine your ceiling lighting, this lamp’s flexibility means your light is always right where you need it. One of the standout features is the slidable shade; with a smooth motion, you can open or close the shade to control the direction of the light, reducing glare and enhancing comfort for those focused, productive moments. The modular design is also pretty interesting and useful—each unit can serve as a sleek table lamp or be effortlessly installed as a suspended ceiling light. Thanks to easy-install connectors and angular joints, you can link multiple lights together, crafting custom layouts that make your office truly unique and adaptable to your needs.

EcoLumi Flex is also about wellness. The Auto Mode feature automatically adjusts the color and intensity of the light throughout the day, following your natural circadian rhythm. Enjoy gentle yellow light (3000K) to ease you into the morning, crisp white light (4000K) for midday focus, and energizing blue-white light (5000K) to help you power through the afternoon. With intuitive controls right at your fingertips, you’re always in charge of your environment. This concept is also crafted with sustainability at its core. The modular system allows for easy upgrades and part replacements, reducing waste and ensuring your lighting solution stands the test of time. It’s a thoughtful choice for eco-conscious professionals and collectors who believe great design should also be good for the planet.

Sleek, minimal lines and a matte black finish give EcoLumi Flex a contemporary aesthetic that works beautifully in any setting. In open-plan offices, the coordinated look of multiple table lamps and custom-length ceiling lights creates a harmonious, designer feel and can make your workspace as inspiring as it is functional. Whether you’re passionate about sustainable design, crave flexibility, or are building a collection of future-ready office essentials, this lighting innovation concept can be both useful and inspiring.

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I have a friend who has more than two cats and she always tells me that the most stressful part about being a cat parent is the constant cleaning of the litter box. She sometimes can’t stay out too long because if she doesn’t clean up the box, it will smell bad obviously. Of course, cats poop several times so this is pretty normal. And more often than not, these litter boxes are eyesores that you have to hide when you have visitors (or hide from your own eyes as well).

The Cat Litter Box Enclosure is a concept for a creative solution for that particular problem that is as functional as it is aesthetic. Instead of settling for the standard plastic trays we’re all used to hiding away in corners, designer Gia Han Pham has reimagined the traditional litter box with a fresh, sophisticated perspective that seamlessly fits into contemporary homes. Drawing inspiration from minimalist aesthetics, she has focused on clean lines, gentle curves, and a subtle color palette that quietly elevates any room. This isn’t just about hiding the litter box; it’s about making it an intentional part of your décor. Her thoughtful approach addresses the needs of both pets and their owners, providing a discreet, stylish shelter that you’ll actually want to show off.

Designer: Gia Han Pham

The enclosure features clean lines, neutral tones, and a subtle wood finish, making it easy to blend with any decor style, whether it’s a cozy farmhouse look or sleek Scandinavian. It’s clear that every element, from the choice of materials to the gentle curves, was chosen with both pets and people in mind. But the design also prioritizes the cat’ comfort and the owner’s convenience. Your pet has plenty of room to move around the enclosure so they still feel comfortable and unconfined. There’s a cleverly designed entrance where they can slip in and out with ease while still keeping the litter scatter contained. More importantly, it has discreet vents so the air can keep flowing and minimize those unpleasant odors that can sometimes linger in regular litter boxes.

So, if you’re like my friend or most of cat parents who are tired of sacrificing style for the sake of your pets, this concept offers a breath of fresh air. Instead of feeling embarrassed when guests drop by or constantly worrying about lingering smells, you’ll have peace of mind. Your space stays beautiful, your cats stay comfortable, and the dreaded clean-up routine feels just a little bit easier.

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Furniture design often walks a fine line between function and form, with couches usually settling into safe, inviting shapes. After all, sofas are made for relaxation, and their shapes tend to echo that sense of comfort. But what happens when a designer throws a little visual tension into the mix, something that stops you in your tracks and makes you look twice?

That’s exactly what this concept couch dares to do. From a distance, it might look like the perfect spot to flop down with a book or cup of tea. But then you spot it: a small wooden side table, seemingly wedged right through the plush backrest like an object that’s gotten stuck mid-motion. The arrangement is both amusing and a bit unsettling, tempting you to investigate further.

Designer: Dmitry Kozinenko

Most loungers need a spot to set down a drink, snack, or phone, which is why tables, big or small, often accompany couches. The twist here is that the table isn’t next to the sofa; it’s awkwardly inserted into the backrest, splitting the cylindrical cushion like a zipper caught halfway. There’s no denying it’s practical, but the positioning also disrupts the usual flow of the furniture.

This strange placement tugs at something buried deep in our brains. Humans are wired to want things completed or at rest, and when that doesn’t happen, it creates a low-key tension that’s hard to ignore. The Stuck collection concept plays on that mental itch, drawing the eye and keeping your curiosity buzzing. You half-expect the side table to keep sliding, or to snap back where it came from.

Rather than blend seamlessly with the couch, the table feels like it’s intruding, as if the piece were caught in the middle of transforming or breaking apart. The combination of soft fabric and hard wood, of steady seat and seemingly stuck side table, creates a delightful contrast that keeps you thinking long after you’ve walked away.

Furniture designers looking for inspiration might find the Stuck concept both playful and provocative. It’s a reminder that a dash of awkwardness can transform a familiar form into a statement piece. By introducing a visual puzzle, this couch-and-table duo promises to spark conversation and maybe even a little bit of healthy debate wherever it lands.

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Most people who move into their own spaces, whether they got married or they got their own apartment or house, would prefer to have furniture and appliances that are both functional and aesthetic. Also, the idea of multi-purpose living devices is gaining significant traction especially for those who live in smaller spaces or who are working on a limited budget. There are a lot of product designers who are taking these into consideration and have come up with concepts that can be pretty useful when they become actual products.

RNT is a living table concept that seamlessly integrates a turntable, a high-quality speaker, and a stylish table into a single, elegant piece of furniture. This innovative concept was designed to transform how we interact with music and our living spaces. Its core functionality revolves around its built-in turntable, allowing users to indulge in the warm, rich sound of vinyl records. The turntable, cleverly integrated into the tabletop, offers a nostalgic yet contemporary way to enjoy music. Beyond its analog capabilities, RNT also embraces modern technology with Bluetooth connectivity, instantly transforming into a wireless speaker for streaming digital music from various devices.

Designer: Minseok Bae

The user experience is thoughtfully considered with a dedicated remote control. This pebble-shaped device, featuring wireless charging for ultimate convenience, provides intuitive control over power, volume, and the turntable’s functions. Its elegant design ensures it sits comfortably in the hand and even has a designated spot on the table’s base, blending functionality with a touch of sculptural beauty.

One of the most distinctive features of RNT is the unique integration of the tonearm and the top shell. Unlike traditional turntables with independently operating tonearms, RNT’s design merges these elements into a single, fluid structure. Opening the top shell gently lifts the tonearm, ready to play an LP, while closing it initiates the music. This innovative approach offers an intuitive and almost ritualistic experience, elevating the act of listening to vinyl.

Beyond its impressive audio capabilities, this concept is also designed with aesthetics in mind. The project’s intention was to transform functional objects into sensorial, furniture-like pieces. The result is a minimalist silhouette built around linear elements, allowing RNT to blend effortlessly into a variety of interior styles. The chosen color palette, featuring a soft celadon green for the main body, adds a touch of calm and sophistication to the space. The careful balance of color tones contributes to a smooth and refined visual impression, ensuring RNT feels like a natural addition to any room.

Positioned as more than just furniture, RNT aspires to be a “living device” that tunes the rhythm and atmosphere of daily life. Its design encourages shared listening experiences in group settings, as the speaker, discreetly housed beneath the table, delivers sound throughout the space. This makes RNT an ideal centerpiece for living rooms or lounges, fostering a communal appreciation for music.

RNT as a concept represents a fresh perspective on how technology and furniture can harmoniously coexist. By seamlessly integrating a turntable, speaker, and table into a beautifully designed unit, it offers an efficient, intuitive, and aesthetically pleasing solution for modern living spaces. It’s a testament to the idea that functional objects can possess both presence and the ability to subtly shape the spaces they inhabit, enriching our lives with both sound and style. Hopefully, someone will be able to manufacture it eventually to see if it can be just as good in the real world as on paper.

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I’m not much of a flower person in a sense that it’s not a priority in my house as decoration. So I don’t really have vases handy in case someone gives me flowers or if I randomly decide to buy some for myself. And even if I did have vases, it would be more for functional purposes and not really as part of my space’s aesthetics. But if you’re the type of person that’s very particular about this accessory, there are a lot of options out there if you’re looking for pretty, decorative, and sometimes, even weird and extraordinary flower vessels.

One option, although it’s still currently a concept, is the Alaska Object 3 – Heart Vase. The designer’s goal isn’t really to just reshape a classic object that can be seen in our daily lives (well, if you’re into flowers and such). The idea is to reimagine its essence and the result is something that doesn’t really look like a vase but retains its main function and enhances what it can do for your flowers. Inspired by the human heart, not as a literal shape but as a conceptual foundation, the Heart Vase draws on the heart’s defining characteristic: its four chambers. This vase is designed as four distinct, interlocking parts. Each can stand alone, holding its own small bouquet, or they can be combined into a larger sculptural piece, bringing multiple flower arrangements together into one unified, striking display.

Designer: Maria Olhovnikova

What makes the Heart Vase stand out isn’t just its modularity, but its visual language. There’s a clear brutalist influence at play: bold, raw, and architectural. The slits in the design aren’t just decorative; they act as functional channels for the flower stems, emphasizing both form and purpose. By bridging emotional symbolism (the heart) with material honesty and industrial aesthetics, the Alaska Object 3 – Heart Vase invites us to see a common object through a fresh, thoughtful lens. It challenges us to consider how the familiar can be reassembled, reinterpreted, and made new. The renders show something that’s more of a pot than a vase with its rectangular shape and unique way of letting you arrange the flowers, leaves, and stems.

This unconventional approach to floral display might just be the conversation starter your space needs, even if you’re not typically drawn to elaborate decorations. It subtly nods to the art of flower arrangement, not by dictating a specific form, but by offering a unique framework for personal creativity and expression. The Heart Vase suggests that even the most utilitarian of objects can be infused with conceptual depth and a touch of unexpected beauty.

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Every lamp enthusiast knows the limits of traditional lighting: no matter how bendable an arm might be, the lamp usually ends up stuck in the same handful of angles. Even with creative designs, it’s tough to escape the static feeling of a fixed base and a predictable pool of light. Imagine, though, a small table lamp you could pop onto any spot you wanted—no wires, no hassle, just lighting exactly where you need it.

That’s the spark behind the Rupi magnetic wireless table lamp concept. As a playful twist on the standard table lamp, Rupi’s glowing disc can be positioned anywhere on its matching metal plate. The secret is a hidden magnet that lets users snap and slide the lamp about, instantly creating new moods and lighting effects. It’s a liberating approach for those who love experimenting with ambiance at the drop of a hat.

Designer: Dimitrih Correa

A closer look at Rupi reveals the charm of its materials. The lamp body is crafted from reclaimed noble hardwoods, like warm Cabreúva vermelha and striking Peroba Rosa. Their rich, organic textures stand out beautifully against the minimalist, matte-black metal plate, an inviting blend of nature and modern design that’s perfect for lamp devotees seeking something different and personal on their desk or nightstand.

The inspiration for Rupi comes from the Curupira legend, a forest spirit from folklore known for his backward feet and tricky ways. Just as Curupira confuses hunters in the woods, Rupi disrupts the typical expectations of how a lamp should behave. This playful nod to myth is subtle yet brings a sense of wonder and storytelling to the object, making it more than just a source of light.

Another aspect of its flexibility is the freedom to take it anywhere around the house or on your desk. Rupi boasts an internal rechargeable battery that lets it glow for up to fourteen hours without needing a recharge, so you can move it around or set the mood all evening long. And when it’s time to power up again, a full charge takes just one hour—perfect for busy designers who want convenience as much as creativity.

Finally, a built-in dimmer lets you fine-tune the brightness to suit any activity, from gentle evening reading to focused work sessions. The dimmer comes in the form of a knurled knob that adds a tactile flourish to the design. Altogether, Rupi’s modular magnetism, warm wood, and clever nod to folklore set it apart as a table lamp concept ready to spark conversation and new ideas among lamp designers and fans alike.

The post Rupi Magnetic Wireless Table Lamp Concept Shines with Playful Flexibility first appeared on Yanko Design.

Bluetooth speakers are a dime a dozen in any market. Whether you’re looking for something within your budget or you want to find something that matches your space’s aesthetic or you want something that looks like just any other speaker, you won’t run out of options. But of course product designers don’t run out of ideas for coming up with new concepts and eventually even actual products. There are those who carefully think about both the design part or the technical specs or in the case of really good designers, both. Desktop speakers have fewer innovative designs compared to bluetooth speakers but there are still some concepts out there worth noting.

Designer: Hao Kong

The Hoan desktop speaker concept brings about a minimalist aesthetic but with a functional elegance. The designer also adds an element of eco-friendliness as one of their goals is to minimize the carbon footprint of the product if it ever gets produced. The speaker’s functionality is a key visual element as the structural integrity is highlighted in the design. It has a clean, uncluttered design that integrates it into most of the modern desktop setups now. The speaker’s aesthetic is emphasized more on the side and rear views where the structural beauty is highlighted but you can also see it from various angles.

The main focal point of the speaker is the grill that has a detailed mesh design that both covers and highlights the functional structure. The main body rests on a circular stand with a metal curvature holding it in between. It’s such a simple, minimalist design but it means it can blend well with your desktop setup and also is economical in terms of space and production. He didn’t indicate what materials will be used but if lessening the product footprint is the goal, then we can expect something that is sustainable as well.

The HOAN desktop speaker concept represents a thoughtful approach to desktop audio, blending minimalist design with functional elegance. As the concept gains traction, it will be interesting to see if it evolves into a commercially available product. Ultimately, the HOAN concept serves as a reminder that even in a saturated market, fresh perspectives and innovative design can capture attention. It highlights the potential for desktop audio to transcend mere functionality, becoming a visually compelling element within our personal workspaces.

The post Desktop speaker concept reimagines minimalist, stylish aesthetic first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

The post Soft furniture concept lets you place comfort on a pedestal first appeared on Yanko Design.

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.

Designer: Teo Primo Frizzarin

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?

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Thanks to Apple, popping earbuds in and out of their charging cases almost feels natural these days. That doesn’t mean they’re convenient or easy, especially when you have to actually open the case first to get the earbuds out. It shouldn’t be that hard, but convention isn’t always on the side of common sense, especially when sticking to the norm is more cost-effective.

This concept design for a pair of modular wireless earbuds tries to challenge the status quo on many levels. It tries to create an ecosystem that goes beyond just playing audio in your ears, resulting in a few features that are, admittedly, a bit peculiar. Curiously, one of the most interesting parts of its design isn’t actually the modules but is instead its equally unconventional charging case.

Designer: Dongkyun Kim

Yes, the charging case, which is actually a lot larger than your typical design, still has a cover that you open up to reveal its contents. In fact, it might even be weirder than most charging cases because the cover opens down like a drawbridge. That doesn’t matter much, though, because you don’t even need to open it to access the earbuds. There are openings on each side that allow you to take them out and put them back in without opening the case at all.

It’s becoming more common for TWS earbud cases to have screens of their own to display important stats, and the Orbit concept is no different. Where it differs is that the screen is so small to avoid being distracting, though it also raises the question of whether it will be readable at all. It’s just a minor convenience anyway, something to add some flavor to the already intriguing design.

Created using Luxion Technology (luxion.com)

Created using Luxion Technology (luxion.com)

Of course, the real meat of the Orbit design concept is its modularity and the modules it comes with out of the box, or rather out of the charging case. There’s a cog-shaped wheel, for example, that magnetically latches onto one of the earbuds to add some tactile feedback for more precise and satisfying controls. Presuming there will be other products in the Orbit ecosystem, this wheel could also be a controller for those.

The camera modules are a bit of an odd feature. They’re supposed to improve motion tracking and spatial awareness, though that could also raise privacy concerns. It could be used to take photos or record videos that are sent to a paired smartphone in a way that looks almost natural because of their proximity to your eyes. Given their size, however, they might not be that capable of recording important memories.

The wireless earbuds themselves have a rather unusual design. In addition to adopting an open-ear technology, the buds are meant to clip to the sides of the ear, which could be uncomfortable and unstable. Indeed, the concept has quite a few interesting ideas that go beyond the actual purpose of the earbuds, but it’s really the case that could be considered to be its selling point.

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Multi-tool designs have become a common sight in many EDC kits, offering a range of tools for almost every occasion. While these might be fine for those quick and unplanned tasks, dedicated tools for specific jobs still have the advantage of offering the best experience as far as that purpose goes. When you’re at home or at your workshop, for example, a proper screwdriver is probably a better option than a tiny one that fits in your pocket.

That said, there’s also a variety of designs available for screwdrivers, ranging from the manual type to electric tools. But while the latter tend to offer more power and convenience, people still tend to reach for a classic design because they’re instantly available without having to worry about cords or batteries. This concept for an electric screwdriver tries to address that remaining flaw by introducing a design that’s ergonomic, versatile, and ultimately more reliable.

Designer: Simone Rizzi

The convenience of electric screwdrivers comes from the fact that you don’t have to strain your hand while twisting the tool. But like flashlights and other battery-powered devices we keep in drawers and toolboxes, we tend to forget to check their state until it’s too late. The stress of discovering a drained electric screwdriver right when you desperately need it is why people surprisingly still prefer the conventional and manual type of screwdriver.

Delta is a concept design for an electric screwdriver that fixes that problem with a very simple solution. The screwdriver comes with a dock for its home that acts not only as storage for driver bits but also as a charging base, not unlike the charging cases of wireless earbuds today. With that design, you can always be sure that the screwdriver will be ready for action the moment you pick it up, and there’s also a very visible indicator of just how much battery it has left.

The design of the screwdriver and its base is also unlike your typical electric screwdriver, paying close attention to aesthetics and ergonomics. Rather than a straight stick or a gun-like shape, the Delta has a slightly bent form that makes it easier and more comfortable to grasp, increasing confidence and pleasure in the use of the tool. Familiarity makes you more likely to immediately reach for this screwdriver rather than second guessing if it’s the right tool or not.

The triangular shape of the charging base isn’t by accident either. It provides stability whether it’s lying on its side or standing on one end, while also making it easy to pick up and carry the duo wherever it’s needed. The location of the driver bits offers easy and immediate access without worrying about them falling off in transit. The Delta concept doesn’t radically change the formula for an electric screwdriver, but through the combination of small improvements, it creates a design that is not only more usable but more reliable as well.

The post Stress-free electric screwdriver concept offers reliability in an elegant design first appeared on Yanko Design.

NASA’s Ingenuity Mars Helicopter was a groundbreaking piece of equipment that was able to be the first human-made object to fly to a different planet back in 2021. And while it crashed in January of this year, it was still able to make 72 flights in under three years. Now that it’s not functioning anymore, NASA is looking at building the next object that will give us a peek into another planet.

Designer: NASA

They have unveiled the early design renderings of the Mars Chopper, their proposed follow-up to the Ingenuity Mars Helicopter. It’s a huge leap from the original as this one is the size of an SUV with six rotor blades to help it fly across the planet. It will be able to carry up to 11 pounds of science payloads across 1.9 miles per Mars day.

The initial renders show the three-legged drone gliding over the supposed landscape of Mars. Since Ingenuity was much smaller, this will hopefully be able to surpass its achievements and give us an even better view and understanding of Mars. It should be able to help scientists in studying Martian terrain and at a faster rate.

While it’s still in its “early conceptual and design stages”, there is already anticipation in how the Chopper can give us a glimpse into the previously inaccessible areas. It’s not clear though if it will actually be sent to Mars.

The post NASA unveils first look at SUV-sized Mars Chopper concept first appeared on Yanko Design.

People who have a hard time falling asleep at night usually try to become sleepy by scrolling through their devices, most of the time to no avail. So if you’re trying to get away from your gadgets, staring up at the ceiling and counting sheep may be your other option. But what if you could see something else other than your blank ceiling.

Designers: Dongkyun Kim, Jaeyeon Lee, Yujeong Kim, Sumin Park, Dugyeong Lee

Loom is a concept for a beam projector that can project images onto your ceiling. It is meant to add to the atmosphere of your room, whether you’re trying to fall asleep or just relaxing after a hard day of work. Not everyone has the luxury to actually go outside and stare at the stars or at the nature surrounding them, so this is probably the next best thing.

The device is something that you attach to the wall and turning it on or off is designed to be like opening a door, letting you step into another world. Once you turn the knob so to speak, which is actually a small telescope-like device, your ceiling will be transformed into whatever image you want to see up there. There’s a controller that looks like a round speaker that you can rotate to adjust the angle of the projection and to rotate the image horizontally or vertically.

This is a pretty interesting idea especially if your ceiling is just a boring, plain color. It would also be nice if it can also project short videos that can loop so you can see things like clouds moving across the sky or anything that can lull you to sleep or relax.

The post Loom concept lets you turn your ceiling into a relaxing canvas first appeared on Yanko Design.

There are a lot of thermal printers in the market right now. People use it for scrapbooking and journaling, labeling, and even printing out receipts for small businesses. If you own one, have you ever wished that it had a screen so you could watch videos on it? No? Well, this concept for a thermal printer is apparently not mainly a printer but actually a learning device with a video screen.

Designer: DPP

Even though the name has the words thermal printer on it, it looks like that is just a secondary function of the device. The N2-Thermal printer is a concept for a screen-equipped learning device. It looks like a regular camera and it also has a camera function as well. It seems to be a lot of things to appeal to people who need all of these things.

It’s primarily being pushed as a learning device as there are videos to be loaded on it so students or even grown ups will be able to view these video explanations. The camera has an AI-powered photo-based question search function and can even correct the homework of the kids (although that isn’t really explained). There’s also a flip stand so you can adjust the viewing angle and it can also be replaced with other designs as it has a quick release structure.

As for the thermal printing function, it’s still there since it’s what it’s called but for why you need a printer though is unclear. Maybe they can print their homework or something, although of course the options for that is limited.

The post Thermal printer lets you watch educational videos on its screen first appeared on Yanko Design.

Given your seemingly uncanny ability to lose small but important objects like keys and eyeglasses, productivity gurus often advise regularly putting these things in a single place whenever you come home, preferably somewhere near the door. As if our lives weren’t already complicated enough, wireless earbuds add another thing that we can easily misplace, even if they actually have a charging case to call home. Sometimes, even that charging case gets lost in the shuffle.

Part of the problem lies in the transition of those earbuds from our ears to their charging case, which can take more than just a few seconds and a lot of fumbling around. This concept design tries to offer our little audio companions a home of their own while also solving that common problem of having to stop your music or podcast once you’ve arrived home.

Designer: Siyeong Park

Many of us have probably developed the habit of listening to music or podcasts to pass the time during commutes. Sometimes, we even do it when we’re running or exercising outdoors. Regardless of the activity, we all have the same behavior when we get home: we take off the earbuds, search for their case in our pockets or bags, and then slip them in for charging. It’s a simple series of actions that have one rather important consequence: it pauses the music we’ve been listening to.

SOAK is a concept for a wireless speaker that hits two birds with one stone, so to speak. On the one hand, it offers a safe and consistent place for your earbuds the moment you enter the house or room. The vase-like design has a bowl-shaped container on top where you can simply drop the earbuds into. In theory, it should charge the buds even without the charging case, but that would require a different kind of technology for truly wireless charging.

The real magic, however, is that the speakers can seamlessly continue playing whatever is being sent to the earbuds. This means you don’t have to pause the music or podcast just because you need to remove the earbuds, letting you continue the rhythm and the vibe of whatever you were listening to. In other words, you decide when you want to stop the music, not the limitations of technology and manufacturer design.

It’s definitely an idyllic scenario, though it’s probably not that easy to implement yet. Most of the technologies needed, like over-the-air wireless charging, do exist today, but support from devices is still quite poor. It does paint a picture of a smarter home that isn’t just focused on lighting or appliances, but one that is designed around our modern lifestyles and habits.

The post Vase-like speaker concept charges your earbuds and keeps the music playing first appeared on Yanko Design.