Gone are the days when kitchen tools and appliances were simply seen as utilitarian objects. With a greater awareness of product design, consumers have become more meticulous in picking products that do more than just serve their advertised functions. Aesthetics and tactile experiences have also become important buying considerations, especially for those who consider the kitchen as their little castle. Even something like a coffee maker can have a profound impact on the ambiance of a space, which is why this particular concept design takes inspiration from one of the most impactful brands in the automotive market.
When it comes to cars, Porsche is a name that is immediately associated with elegance, luxury, and performance. Its sports cars are known not just for their speed but for their regal presence on any type of road. Characterized by smooth curves and aerodynamic forms, Porsche’s design language has been the inspiration for designers across various industries outside of vehicles.
nair is a coffee machine concept that is a result of such inspiration. Most coffee maker designs gravitate toward two extremes. On the one hand, you have the typical black and silver kitchen appliance that dominates even the luxury market. On the other hand, you have vibrant and colorful models that inspire playfulness and curiosity. Somewhere in the middle is nair, embracing a spirit of dynamism and style that is more commonly seen in Porsche cars than kitchen tools.
There are very few straight lines in nair’s design, for example, preferring the smooth and gentle curves that give Porsche sports cars their aerodynamic properties. The choice of materials isn’t determined by durability alone but also by the texture and aesthetic that adds to the enjoyment of the product even when not in use. Also adhering to the brand’s minimalist design language, there is no wasted space or extraneous detail. From its handle to its interface, every part is born from meticulous attention to detail that balances functionality and form.
The result is a coffee machine that goes beyond just making coffee. It transforms the experience into something that is both visual and tactile, adding value to the object without burdening it with unnecessary features. The design concept might not make your coffee taste better, but it elevates the whole brewing experience and turns it into something more like an art form.
I remember seeing a video where a toaster could be laid on its side and used as a pizza oven instead. Rather than simply toasting bread slices, you could apply a small amount of sauce, pop a pepperoni slice or two, and some cheese and slide it into the horizontally kept toaster. Working essentially as an oven now, this toaster could be used to dish out quick pizza slices, or even toast up garlic bread, bagels, etc. While that sideways toaster use is more of a lifehack, it’s the Dwo Oven and Multicooker’s very USP. Designed to be used vertically as a regular oven, or sideways as a wider pizza oven, the Dwo goes to show that even something as basic as your average kitchen appliance has the potential to be reinvented.
Designed for compact kitchens that can’t accommodate too many appliances, the Dwo lends itself to multiple use cases thanks to an adaptable design that works standing up as well as lying on its belly. The oven comes with a slim profile, sporting clear windows on the front and back, along with a control panel on top that lets you set the temperature and timer. The clear windows also function as doors, with both of them opening depending on how your oven is oriented. When standing up, the front-facing door opens to give you a narrow yet vertically spacious oven, while when sleeping down, the rear door (which is now positioned on top) opens to let you lower wide items into the oven. The concept is sort of like a wood-fired oven versus a tandoor – one has a frontal opening while the other is accessible from the top.
A roller on the bottom of the Dwo helps it easily transition between its two orientations, allowing you to easily and swiftly change between vertical and horizontal use. Vertically, the Dwo is perfect for multi-level cooking, like baking loaves, tea cakes, or a row of cookies. Lay it flat, however, and you can now lower a wider pan into it, making it ideal for pizzas, wider cakes, focaccias, pies, etc. Of course, orienting your oven vertically or horizontally means the heat coils face in different directions based on the orientation. While horizontal, your pizzas don’t necessarily cook fast from the top or the bottom, given that the heat coils are located on the sides. However, with some clever thermodynamic engineering, the Dwo could be turned into a heat-guiding furnace, so your pizza cooks evenly with browning on the bottom and a melted layer of cheese on the top!
Designed by Colombia-based Dogma Design, the Dwo is a Best of the Best winner of the Red Dot Award: Design Concept for the year 2024. It gives you an adaptable oven that doesn’t occupy much space, and can be used for something as basic as reheating an entire pizza to something more complex like making biscuits or cupcakes. The oven’s unique flat-ish internal space might be limiting had it not been for its ability to literally lean over and shift between standing and sleeping formats. No more trying to tilt the toaster on its side to lifehack your way through college!
I remember seeing a video where a toaster could be laid on its side and used as a pizza oven instead. Rather than simply toasting bread slices, you could apply a small amount of sauce, pop a pepperoni slice or two, and some cheese and slide it into the horizontally kept toaster. Working essentially as an oven now, this toaster could be used to dish out quick pizza slices, or even toast up garlic bread, bagels, etc. While that sideways toaster use is more of a lifehack, it’s the Dwo Oven and Multicooker’s very USP. Designed to be used vertically as a regular oven, or sideways as a wider pizza oven, the Dwo goes to show that even something as basic as your average kitchen appliance has the potential to be reinvented.
Designed for compact kitchens that can’t accommodate too many appliances, the Dwo lends itself to multiple use cases thanks to an adaptable design that works standing up as well as lying on its belly. The oven comes with a slim profile, sporting clear windows on the front and back, along with a control panel on top that lets you set the temperature and timer. The clear windows also function as doors, with both of them opening depending on how your oven is oriented. When standing up, the front-facing door opens to give you a narrow yet vertically spacious oven, while when sleeping down, the rear door (which is now positioned on top) opens to let you lower wide items into the oven. The concept is sort of like a wood-fired oven versus a tandoor – one has a frontal opening while the other is accessible from the top.
A roller on the bottom of the Dwo helps it easily transition between its two orientations, allowing you to easily and swiftly change between vertical and horizontal use. Vertically, the Dwo is perfect for multi-level cooking, like baking loaves, tea cakes, or a row of cookies. Lay it flat, however, and you can now lower a wider pan into it, making it ideal for pizzas, wider cakes, focaccias, pies, etc. Of course, orienting your oven vertically or horizontally means the heat coils face in different directions based on the orientation. While horizontal, your pizzas don’t necessarily cook fast from the top or the bottom, given that the heat coils are located on the sides. However, with some clever thermodynamic engineering, the Dwo could be turned into a heat-guiding furnace, so your pizza cooks evenly with browning on the bottom and a melted layer of cheese on the top!
Designed by Colombia-based Dogma Design, the Dwo is a Best of the Best winner of the Red Dot Award: Design Concept for the year 2024. It gives you an adaptable oven that doesn’t occupy much space, and can be used for something as basic as reheating an entire pizza to something more complex like making biscuits or cupcakes. The oven’s unique flat-ish internal space might be limiting had it not been for its ability to literally lean over and shift between standing and sleeping formats. No more trying to tilt the toaster on its side to lifehack your way through college!
I love the fall season because it means a time for cozy gatherings, pumpkin-spiced lattes, warm meals, and a certain crispness in the air. To make the most of this season, it is important to curate the right home and kitchen gadgets to ensure you can organize your home, and create an inviting atmosphere. From watching Halloween-themed movies in advance to mowing your lawn and getting rid of those fallen leaves – the right assortment of gadgets can ensure that your Autumn season will pass smoothly and seamlessly. We have curated a collection of functional and fall-appropriate appliances for you! From a smart tea maker to help you prepare your steaming pumpkin chai latte to an intelligent lawn blower with Vision AI – these innovative and well-designed gadgets are what you need this fall season.
1. Google TV Streamer
The Google TV Streamer is designed to be the Chromecast’s successor. It is deemed a natural rival to the Apple TV, and it features a slanted top, supported by a firm block base. It has a clean and minimal white color theme, and it is quite different from the compact dongle Chromecast while maintaining the Google TV branding. It is the latest 4K streaming device from Google. It seems like the ideal gadget to support your movie-watching marathons this fall season if you’re in the mood for some Halloween-themed media!
Why is it noteworthy?
The Google TV Streamer’s new and improved design is paired up with a remote control, which is longer than the previous remote of the Chromecast. The remote features some improvements in the design and feel as well. The streaming box is connected to two cables at the back, which may be for power and HDMI.
What we like
Features a new flat tabletop design
Upgraded smart home controls
What we dislike
Uses Wi-Fi 5 instead of a more modern standard like Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7
It is pricier than the Chromecast with Google TV
2. The COit
Designed by LG, the COit is intended to be a robot that functions as a hub in your kitchen ecosystem. The robot is designed to be utilized by novices and professional chefs. It is an autonomous device that moves the focus from videography back to cooking, which is the primary focus of entering a kitchen.
Why is it noteworthy?
It is equipped with a mountable rail with a circular display that is surrounded by a projector, camera, light, and a smart grip. The different modules are designed to be moved around in the small area, ensuring they are kept away from fires and vapors.
What we like
These modules – that clip onto the rail with built-in magnets – can be customized in orientation, depending on user requirements
What we dislike
Food over the globe has such diversity, that trying to standardize the recipe as per one instruction set would impact the diversity of that dish
3. Shell Intelligent Speaker
Dubbed the Shell Intelligent Speaker, this conceptual design offers a twist on the shape of a smart speaker. It draws inspiration from shells, merging the round and squarish shapes, and then utilizing a dot matric outline. The hole-inspired form and the addictive character will elevate the acoustic sound of the speaker. The speaker is a visually pleasing device, to help you play your autumn-themed playlist at full volume!
Why is it noteworthy?
The round speaker looks quite cute and appealing and reminds you not only of a seashell but also of an egg. The round screen offers more space to view your music, videos, weather, and date information. Since it is a smart speaker, you can simply listen to the shell to get the information you need.
What we like
Minimal aesthetic with pastel colors
Larger screen space
What we dislike
It is a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product
4. Smart Tea Pot
Say hello to the Smart Tea Pot, an essential for all tea lovers. It is a unique connected teapot, which lets you brew your tea using technology. You can prepare a delicious brew based on the tea you like to drink, creating a specialized brew of your own choice. You could try preparing some delicious pumpkin-themed tea or chai to deal with the autumn air!
The Smart Tea Pot features advanced brewing adjustments you can customize to prepare the kind of tea you want. Its “Golden Drop” rotating infuser is the perfect example of Japanese minimalism.
What we like
Equipped with compact size, and minimal design language
Perfect example of Japanese minimalism and design philosophy
What we dislike
Tech is used for brewing, which may require a learning curve for users
5. Kuku Maker
If you’re in the mood to up your coffee game this fall, and prepare some delicious pumpkin-spiced lattes, then you may want to consider purchasing the Kuku Maker. It helps you take control of your coffee, and prepare it exactly the way you like it. You have options for flavor, thick or light consistency, as well as hot or cold serving.
Why is it noteworthy?
Designed to be a revolutionary coffee machine, the KUKU Maker provides a consistent taste and allows you to customize extraction parameters according to your personal preferences during the brewing process. It has a whole bunch of adjustable options, such as extraction pressure, time, temperature, and grind fineness.
What we like
Provides exceptional control and flexibility
Easy-to-clean design
What we dislike
Will require a learning curve to fully understand and properly use the various settings effectively
6. Heisenberg H1 Pro All-in-One Robot Mower
Meet the Heisenberg H1 Pro All-in-One Robot Mower amped with Vision AI. It is a robotic lawn mower, perfect for cleaning up your yard this autumn season. It merges cameras with AI to plan routes, and also avoid obstacles pretty efficiently. This ensures that the traditional boundary wire isn’t required.
Why is it noteworthy?
The robotic lawn mower ensures your yard is clean and crisp. The H1 Pro is amped with the Heisenberg Pilot System (HPS), and it uses robotic vision, dual AI chips, and deep-learning algorithms to build the perfect 3D navigation for your entire lawn. It is great for perfect edges and an even cut.
What we like
Trims edges, blows leaves, and sprays fertilizers on its own
What we dislike
Looks a bit too industrial
7. ROTO-Q 360
Say hello to the ROTO-Q 360 – a non-electric rotisserie cooking machine. It is designed to be a durable and convenient option for rotisserie chicken. It occupies minimal space and automates the whole rotisserie process, so you just need to set it up and turn it on. The machine doesn’t need any fuel, gas, or power to run, so you don’t need to stress about keeping it charged and ready for use.
Why is it noteworthy?
It offers the ultimate convenience in rotisserie cooking and ensures some delicious and healthy chicken is always easily accessible for you. You can enjoy some fresh and delicious rotisserie chicken all day long, keeping your diet on track, and making for a perfect fall dinner!
What we like
Engineered to fit in any home and kitchen
Portable design
What we dislike
Some users said that it has sharp edges, so use it with care to ensure you don’t cut yourself
8. Abell
Dubbed Abell, this air purifier is both functional and aesthetic. It purifies the air in your room and home, while also serving as a decorative piece. It doesn’t simply stand in your room, cleaning the air, it also functions as a lighting design, making it a truly multifunctional product.
Why is it noteworthy?
The purifier can be hung wherever you like, and it won’t occupy any precious real estate in your home. It provides clean air, while also illuminating your room. If you’re someone who appreciates a minimal and monochromatic aesthetic, then this air purifier is the perfect choice for you.
What we like
Multifunctional and versatile product
Minimalist and visually pleasing design
What we dislike
It has a pretty minimal and simple controller, which doesn’t display how the air-purification function can be customized
9. ANAORI Kakugama
Say hello to the ANAORI kakugama – a sleek, all-black, and aesthetic appliance that merges traditional and modern design. The kitchen appliance prepares fresh delicious food, without causing much damage to the ingredients. It is a multifunctional gadget made from carbon graphite. It can steam, poach, simmer, grill, or even fry your food for you. You can do a lot with your autumnal vegetable this fall season!
Why is it noteworthy?
The versatile cooking device can prepare your food in different styles for you. It is equipped with great heat retention on account of the carbon graphite and a Japanese cypress lid which imparts the food with the lovely scent of the Japanese countryside.
What we like
Prepares food with care, while taking care of ingredients
What we dislike
Expensive price tag
Bulky appliance that will occupy substantial space
10. Battery-free Amplifying iSpeakers
If you’re in the mood to play some spooky tunes this Halloween, then you may want to get your hands on the Battery-Free Amplifying Speakers. These unique speakers are battery-free and portable and designed to be an upgraded variant of the conventional no-power smartphone speaker. The speakers are built from metal, giving them a sleek and sturdy look.
These speakers are made from a special aluminum alloy called Duralumin. This alloy is typically used in aviation and aerospace industries since it has vibration-resistant properties. You just need to place the smartphone into the speaker and prepare yourself for a high-quality audio experience.
What we like
It doesn’t need any power, so you can carry it wherever you like
Sleek and minimal aesthetics
What we dislike
Incompatible with bulky and big smartphone cases and covers
Air purifiers, humidifiers, and aroma diffusers are becoming increasingly common sights in our homes, but they have yet to become an integral part of them. Unlike appliances that have been around for decades, these younger devices still stand out like a sore thumb with uninspiring designs. Fortunately, there are efforts to truly make these products blend in with the rest of your home, hiding in plain sight without affecting their function. This aroma diffuser concept, for example, eschews the stereotypical plastic cans and embraces not only a more premium material but also a more artistic form that gives it a majestic presence in your living space.
Blending modern design and practical functionality, this metal aroma diffuser delivers a touch of elegant minimalism to your home. It has a sleek conical shape that tapers gently at the top, giving it a more striking silhouette that’s simple yet also immediately more sophisticated compared to the typical cylinders and tubs of most aroma diffusers. The choice of metal adds to the character of elegance and luxury as the finish reflects ambient light and colors to create a unique appearance that is clean and uncluttered, perfect for minimalist decors.
Of course, the concept design isn’t just a decorative piece but also a functional device designed to reduce stress and create an atmosphere of calm in any space. The aroma-infused mist rises from the top of the slender cone, ensuring the optimal dispersion of the fragrance to let the scent gracefully permeate the entire room. It also creates a rather stunning visual, like smoke rising from a candle or from the top of a tall and mighty volcano. The bottom of the cone which meets the disc-shaped stand has a rather unusual turbine design that partially exposes the mechanism inside while also adding a touch of intrigue to the unique visual. Thus, the design concept is a nod to both artistic design and technological elegance.
The choice of metal instead of plastic also makes an appeal to eco-conscious consumers. This opens the doors to using more sustainable materials, like recycled metal, while still preserving the premium and stylish traits of the design. This aroma diffuser concept stands literally and figuratively in opposition to mass-produced appliances that seemingly trade the planet’s health for human comfort. It also illustrates how simple shapes and common materials, when chosen wisely, can elevate the ambiance of a room better than elaborate designs.
More than just a mere household appliance, this concept raises the aroma diffuser to the level of a design object or sculptural art piece. It easily becomes a conversation starter, sparking the curiosity and admiration of whoever gazes upon it. The form of the aroma diffuser alone already creates a calming atmosphere that becomes even more effective once the aromas start spreading across the room. The design also speaks to a broader trend in interior design, where functionality and aesthetics finally go hand in hand, where consumers are drawn to products not just for their purpose but also to the value they add to living spaces through their memorable designs.
Imagine turning your living room into a jaw-dropping cinema or the ultimate gaming arena with just one device. With the game-changing Valerion VisionMaster Series, available in Max and Pro 2 models, that dream is now a reality. These cutting-edge projectors don’t just enhance your entertainment — they revolutionize it. Gone are the days when you had to compromise on quality or size for big-screen experiences at home. Whether you’re hosting a movie night with friends, leveling up in your favorite video game, or binge-watching your latest obsession, the VisionMaster series transforms every moment into an extraordinary event. Offering dazzling visuals, stunning sound, and smart home integration, these projectors are designed to make your home the epicenter of unforgettable entertainment experiences.
Picture this: Vivid, crystal-clear projections stretching up to an enormous 300 inches, or 25 feet, right in your own home! The Valerion VisionMaster, from the brilliant minds behind AWOL Vision, makes this dream a reality with its dazzling 3,000 ISO lumens triple laser projector technology. As the World’s First Lifestyle Projector armed with a professional OptiFlex lens system, the Valerion VisionMaster Pro 2 boasts a 0.9-1.5 throw ratio and optical zoom adjustment that’s great for both small and large spaces. With Vertical Lens Shift and Dynamic IRIS (only available on the VisionMaster Max), the projector adjusts to your needs, not the other way around. The native 4000:1 contrast is already a cut above the rest in the industry, but thanks to Valerion’s exclusive Enhanced Black Level technology, the VisonMaster series delivers a dynamic contrast ratio of 15000:1 for rich black tones that truly makes the brightest spots even brighter.
The first lifestyle projector to feature a professional-grade OpticFlex lens system, powered by the cutting-edge AI-SoC MT9618.
Armed with an RGB triple laser light source and a brilliant 110% Rec. 2020 wide color gamut, it transforms any room into an immersive, cinema-grade haven. Whether it’s an epic movie night, an intense gaming session, or a weekend of binge-watching your favorite shows, the VisionMaster has you covered.HDR 10+ and Dolby Vision support ensure mind-blowing colors and sharp, vivid detail, while IMAX-Enhanced and Filmmaker Modes bring the magic of the big screen to your home. And the audio? It’s simply out of this world. With dual DTS Virtual:X speakers, the Pro 2 delivers immersive sound packed with deep bass and crystal-clear highs.
Say goodbye to multiple remotes and complicated setups, and control the projector with the power of your voice. The VisionMaster is powered by the innovative AI-SoC MT9618 chipset and seamlessly integrates with smart home systems like Apple HomeKit, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. Even better, the Valerion VisionMaster is Google TV OS streaming certified, offering wireless access to Netflix, Hulu, HBO, Disney+, and a plethora of other services. You can also easily share fond photos or hilarious videos from your phone or tablet using Apple AirPlay, Miracast, or Chromecast. The VisionMaster Series is also packed with smart features that make it effortless to set up and use, from autofocus to auto keystone correction to automatic obstacle avoidance.
But wait, there’s more! The VisionMaster offers ultra-low 4ms input lag and a blazing-fast 1080p 240Hz rate that will keep gamers on the edge of their seats. High-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 inputs also ensure compatibility with the latest gaming consoles. The VisionMaster is more than just a projector: it’s a full-blown cinematic experience and entertainment hub that hits all the right notes.
All these powerful features are packaged in a design that is sleek, distinguished, and durable. With 14 electroplated metal strips, the VisionMaster can endure up to 100kg of pressure. This structure not only provides superior strength but also gives the projector a distinctive modern aesthetic that will surely capture the attention and envy of everyone. So why settle for the ordinary when you can experience the extraordinary? With the Valerion VisionMaster Pro 2 arriving in December 2024 and the VisionMaster Max coming in May 2025, you can step into a world of entertainment and adventure, day or night, and take your home cinema experience to new heights.
Autumn season is setting in, which means the leaves are starting to change, and its time to whip up some delicious pumpkin spice lattes. Fall doesn’t simply mean sweaters and pumpkin-themed meals, it also welcomes the barbecue season. If you’re in the mood to host a couple of barbecue parties in your backyard this fall, then we’ve curated a collection of top-notch grills to elevate your outdoor grilling game. From an All-in-One-Grill with a whole bunch of different functionalities to a compact grill plate that lets you grill wherever you feel like – these exceptional grill designs perfectly merge style, functionality, and versatility to meet your grilling needs.
1. All-in-One-Grill
Named the All-in-One-Grill, this compact grill is perfect for your barbecue sessions this fall. It is designed to facilitate different kinds of cooking – from frying to smoking, grilling, stewing or even keeping some wine warm for you. Additionally, the griller doesn’t occupy much space either.
The All-in-One-Grill is manufactured by a small family-owned factory, and it is designed to maximize the limited amount of space available. It includes a wooden base, which doesn’t let your table get burnt, while also functioning as a lid for when the grill is kept aside.
What we like
The grill supports seven different kinds of cooking
Makes outdoor cooking a simple, seamless, and efficient task
What we dislike
The grill is quite simple and isn’t preferred by hardcore grillers
2. WARMBOND BondStove Fire Pit
Named the WARMBOND BondStove Fire Pit, this product is easy to assemble and easy to ignite, making it ideal for people new to firepits. It has a compact and portable design with a dual-air system that eliminates smoke. It has its temperature indicator and lets you grill your food, or even simply warm your hands.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Bondstove Fire Pit looks like a Mac Studio of fire pits, featuring a rounded-square body and a metallic design. It has an interior construction that is pretty clever and promotes airflow with efficiency. It provides a bigger fire pit than a typical circular one, and it features a combustion chamber area of 58 liters.
What we like
Dissipates smoke in a way that keeps the fire pit clean
Cuts down on excessive smoke and pollution
What we dislike
Can only be used in well-ventilated areas
Reduces smoke production, but isn’t 100% smoke-free
3. Compact Modular Grill Plate
Named the Compact Modular Grill Plate, this portable kitchen utensil is all you need to prepare a yummy steak for your next outdoor trip. It is amped with heat conduction, heat uniformity, and plate thickness. The utensil may look pretty simple and unassuming, but once you start using it, you’ll realize how functional it truly is.
It features a three-layer architecture with two steel layers covering aluminum. It is made using a lower Stainless Steel SUS439 and an upper Stainless Steel SUS304, so you can use it on an induction stove, and it features impressive corrosion resistance.
What we like
Constructed by experts from Tsubamesanjo in Japan
Lightweight and compact design
What we dislike
Cannot handle larger portions of food
4. Otto’s G32
Meet Otto’s G32 – the first smart and modular gas grill. It is designed to revolutionize gas grilling, and it perfectly adjusts to your grilling needs. G32 is an end-of-the-line gas grill, and it is packed with features found in commercial-grade appliances. It is made using premium quality materials with cutting-edge, patent-pending technology.
Why is it noteworthy?
It is amped with connected cooking. You can monitor or control the G32 with your smartphone. You can measure temperatures, check gas levels, and cook recipes using the Otto Wilde app.
What we like
You can add modules like side cookers, cabinets, or built-in appliances to the line-up
What we dislike
Quite pricey
5. FYR Grill
The FYR Grill is versatile, durable, and portable. It lets you live-fire grill almost anywhere you like without any boundaries. You can take it wherever you travel, and cook up a delicious barbecue meal. It lets you cook virtually anything from virtually anywhere!
Why is it noteworthy?
The FYR Grill features a modular design that lets you bolt on different accessories with ease. For example, the Santa Maria attachment lets you raise and lower the grates for ultimate temperature control. While, the battery-powered rotisserie attachment helps you slow-roast whole chickens, legs, loins, and more
What we like
Has multiple attachments to help you grill with ease
If you think just about the Nothing.tech company ethos of bringing fun back to tech while still being design-driven and meaningful, that ethos can apply to pretty much any category of product. Sure, Nothing’s best known for their earbuds, phones, and even other accessories like the CMF Watch Pro… so here’s a proposition – what if we took Nothing’s ethos and brought it to other products that are a bit of a visual afterthought? The robot vacuum, for instance, is a fairly ‘boring’ looking product. Its job is literally to scuttle around the house cleaning up after your mess, so for the most part, its design is driven by function rather than expression. However, by bringing the robot vacuum under the Nothing design umbrella, Soo Hyun Lim and PDF HAUS have uplifted an otherwise dull-looking appliance into something that inherently feels more modern – because it borrows its design cues directly from Nothing’s modern-looking smartphones.
Designers: Soo Hyun Lim & PDF HAUS
Meet the Nothing Robot Vacuum (1), a tongue-in-cheek fan-made concept that ports Nothing’s DNA onto a familiar product template. Most robot vacuums are the same shape and size, so how could you possibly make things interesting? Well, LEDs and transparent covers, of course! The Robot Vacuum (1) has a circular profile that’s then outfitted with a transparent D-shaped outer shell, giving it an almost ‘preserved in glass’ kind of look. Sensors are where they belong (on the front as well as on the top), and although you can’t entirely make a robot vacuum transparent, what with all the dust and dirt, Hyun Lim does something clever by bringing the Glyph Interface to the product. What does the interface do? Well, it acts as a progress bar that lets you know how much cleaning’s left. Similarly, Glyph lights on the vacuum’s docking station light up to indicate charging process as well as letting you know the fill-status on the station’s dustbin, so you know when to throw the trash out every week or so.
With the aesthetic appeal of a fancy turntable, the Nothing Robot Vacuum (1) highlights a kind of Bauhaus-meets-Scandinavian minimalism that companies like Bang&Olufsen have come to showcase so well with their products. The vacuum looks classy, not appliance-y, which is quite a win because of how menial its task actually is. I mean, sure some appliances have boring jobs, like thermostats and dehumidifiers, but that’s no reason they should look ‘boring’, right? Well, the Nothing Robot Vacuum (1) rejects that stereotype.
As far as the design goes, the vacuum comes in 3 colors – black, white, and grey. Just from a top view, you instantly recognize the Nothing design template. The Glyph Interface at the 7 o’clock position, the transparent elements along the body, and a radial pattern on the upper half of the circular top that sort of resembles the coils in the wireless charging zone on the smartphones. It’s simple, yet cleverly executed.
Just like with the phones, you’ve got microtextures galore, along with text screen-printed onto the transparent elements like the upper guard (that prevents the sensors on top from being damaged), and the front transparent bumper that helps the robot vacuum easily maneuver into corners. Moreover, Hyun Lim mentions that the vacuum is constructed from recycled plastic and aluminum, which seems like a nice sustainability touch that goes well with the ‘clean’ image of the vacuum cleaner.
Although conceptual, Hyun Lim does give the robot vacuum a fair bit of detail. You’ve got a rotary broom on the front, along with a vibrating wet mop that helps get grease, grime, and other stains off your floor. The simple design is complemented by a simple UX – you can lift the lid to access the robot’s power button or open its water reservoir to replenish it between cleaning sessions. The sensors on the front and top help the vacuum navigate through the house, while an app on the phone gives you all the controls you need to set schedules, paths, no-go zones, and charging times. Plus, when the robot vacuum runs low on juice, it automatically goes and docks in its station, where the battery gets charged and the dust-tank gets cleaned.
The docking station is just as minimal as the vacuum itself, and serves as a place where your appliance goes to take a pit-stop. Once docked, the Robot Vacuum (1) charges its batteries, while performing a self-clean operation so it’s good to go for round 2. This means the mop head gets cleaned with water, and the dust/dirt tank gets disposed into the docking station’s larger ‘dustbin’. When the dustbin gets filled (after a couple of days of cleaning), all you need to do is empty the trash bag inside and replace it with a new one. That’s where the docking station’s Glyph lights come handy, letting you know your vacuum’s charging rate, along with the dustbin’s current capacity.
Although the Robot Vacuum (1) is purely conceptual at this point, it does prove that Nothing’s approach to redefining technology as ‘accessible fun’ is quite a winning and versatile one. The Robot Vacuum (1) doesn’t exist but there’s no reason it shouldn’t. Carl, you listening?
Taking showers with heaters is always a hit and miss for me, sometimes learning my lesson the hard way. There have been several times that a cold blast hit me so I’ve learned to not go under yet and wait for the water to turn hot. However, that also means that we’re wasting a lot of water if that happens every day. Apparently, an average person wastes 4000 liters and 110 kilowatt-hours of energy every year, according to startup Heau.
The patented Heau system says they’re the world’s first shower with instant hot water. This way it helps you save on the water that’s wasted as you wait for it to heat up while still enjoying the comfort of hot water instantly as soon as you turn on the shower. Most people wait for around 1 minute after they turn on the shower since that’s when the water becomes comfortably hot. What they came up with is a two-compartment system that is able to store the heat from your previous shower so it’s already hot when you turn on your current shower.
The hot water from the end of a shower is stored in a vacuum chamber and keeps it hot up to three days because of a special insulation. When you take your next shower, the system detects the cold water and sends it to the left compartment which then applies pressure through a flexible membrane. It is sent to the mixing valve so you get your instant hot water. When the water in the pipes is already hot, the system is able to shut off the hot water inlet and can recharge it since it sends the water to the right hand compartment.
The installation of the system is similar to the water storage for hanging toilets and it can work with any type of shower. Heau is still currently in the startup stage but they’re targeting the shower system to be available by 2025.
What’s the first thing you need when you wake up? Is it a cup of tea?! Me too! I need a boost of energy, a dose of motivation, and a rush of serotonin every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. We all need our cup of tea. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know results from your hard work, something precariously prepared with your personal touch to it. And if you’re someone who’s chasing that feeling, then a unique, innovative, and interactive tea brewer is all you need, and ninety-five percent of the battle is won (the other five percent is you setting aside your laziness and operating the machine)! This collection of kitchen tools and appliances is designed to make your tea-making and drinking experience effortless and fun!
1. Smart Tea Pot
Say hello to the Smart Tea Pot, an essential for all tea lovers. It is a unique connected teapot, which lets you brew your own tea using technology. You can prepare a delicious brew based on the tea you like to drink, creating a specialized brew of your own choice.
The Smart Tea Pot features advanced brewing adjustment you can customize, to prepare the kind of tea you want. It has a “Golden Drop” rotating infuser which is the perfect example of Japanese minimalism.
What we like
Features a compact size, and minimal design language
It is the perfect specimen of Japanese minimalism and design philosophy
What we dislike
The teapot uses tech for brewing, which may take time for users to adjust to
2. Hug Cup
Dubbed the Hug Cup, this adorable cup embodies the designer’s belief that, “we give special attention to things we use in our everyday life. We like to have a personal relation to the objects we touch closely, such as a cup.” The cup has a unique take on the mug’s traditional side handle.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Hug Cup lets users securely hold it while allowing them to feel the warmth of the liquid contents within. Imre says “The whole cup creates an intimate tunnel through the cup itself for your finger, you may enjoy the heat of your beverage without burning your palm.”
What we like
Gives the typical mug a wholesome makeover
What we dislike
The new form of the handle could take a while to adjust to
3. ChaiBot
The ChaiBot is designed to be the Nespresso of tea. It automates the entire process of making tea. It merges the expertise of tech with the old and wholesome art of tea brewing. It is a tabletop device that can work well with every type of tea there is, ranging from liquor tea to milk-based chai, or some soothing matcha.
Why is it noteworthy?
You simply need to add tea to the ChaiBot and tell it to start brewing. The ChaiBot chooses the right temperature and begins to expertly prepare your tea, based on the kind of tea you’ve got. The brewed tea is then poured into a kettle, which keeps it warm for hours.
What we like
Compatible with all kinds of teas
Gives your tea 30% more antioxidants than if you brew it manually
What we dislike
It is a bulky and space-consuming appliance, not well-suited for smaller kitchens
4. U Soo
Named U Soo, this concept allows you to chill and relax, as you prepare a cup of tea for yourself. You are able to smell the tea as it steeps, so it also doubles up as an aroma diffuser. The machine is a lot like a coffee machine or something truly unique and eccentric right out of a laboratory.
Why is it noteworthy?
You can witness the entire process – ranging from boiling the water to the steeping of the tea when you pour it into your cup. This whole transparency adds a rather therapeutic and interactive element to the tea machine.
What we like
Has transparent bits, making it quite interesting and interactive
What we dislike
Since it is a concept, we don’t know how well it will translate into a real product
5. Cuzen Matcha
Say hello to Cuzen Matcha – the matcha maker you’ve been waiting for! It is a compact and sleek appliance, well-suited for homes, offices, and basically any space with an outlet. The product is portable, allowing you to enjoy a fresh and authentic cup of matcha tea wherever you feel like.
Why is it noteworthy?
The magnetic whisker replicates the movements of the traditional bamboo whisk, and it mixes cold water with tea, preparing a frothy matcha drink for you. It is equipped with an aluminum canister to ensure your leaves stay fresh, and it supports sustainable tea farming with eco-friendly packaging.
What we like
Sleek and compact form that can be carried anywhere with you
What we dislike
Takes up a substantial amount of counter space
Not compatible with other teas, you need to use the Cuzen Matcha brand leaves
6. FinalPress V2
Named the FinalPress V2, this product is portable, lightweight, and all-metal. It provides the fine and premium quality of a French Press directly inside your tea cup or coffee mug. It is great to prepare some top-notch tea of your choice, wherever you like.
Why is it noteworthy?
Fill the FinalPress V2 with the tea of your choice, shut it, and immerse it in water to begin the infusion process. The press can be filled with hot or cold water, and once it’s done, hit the plunger on the top to extract all the water out of the basket. You have some fresh and delicious tea ready for you!
What we like
Portable and lightweight design
It seems pretty easy to clean
What we dislike
Prepares only one serving in a go
7. Mosi Tea
Meet Mosi Tea! You can now easily and effortlessly brew and drink some soothing loose-leaf tea at home, or on the go, using Mose Tea’s patent-pending, multisensory tea infuser. Mosi Tea allows you to brew the perfect cuppa no matter where you are. Whether you prefer your tea hot or cold, Mosi brews it for you in no time.
Why is it noteworthy?
Mosi prepares your tea in no time, with zero effort. You don’t even need to carry around any messy tools. It is made from Tritan which has the feel and look of glass. The material is strong enough to withstand extreme temperatures and clumsy hands, ensuring the bottle stays safe.
What we like
The mouthpiece mimics a teacup, making it easy and fun to drink from
What we dislike
Small liquid volume compared to the size of the bottle
8. BRÜ Tea Maker
This is the BRÜ tea maker, designed to prepare the perfect cup of tea for you at the push of a button. You can use any tea! You simply need to set the temperature, cup size, and brew time, and it prepares the tea for you, saving you a whole load of time and energy. It saves your previous settings, so you can simply repeat the process, without the need to set up the machine every single time.
Why is it noteworthy?
BRÜ lets you use any drink you fancy, the included spoon and sieve prepare any kind of tea for you. You don’t need to use any expensive capsules of pods with BRÜ, you can just use the tea you have at home, allowing you to explore and try different flavor combinations.
What we like
Saves your tea preparation settings for you
It can also prepare pot noodles and coffee for you
What we dislike
Hefty price tag
9. TMB
Dubbed the TMB or the Modular Bottle, this one-of-a-kind bottle is designed to hold your drink of choice as you work through the day. This bottle will cater to your various drinking requirements, ensuring you don’t ignore your hydration while working, and providing you with a refreshing beverage when you need it.
Why is it noteworthy?
The inside of TMB is made from durable borosilicate glass, which ensures your drinks have the perfect taste, irrespective of how many times the bottle is used. The bottle is also easy to clean, and the mid-section is translucent, so you can always see how much liquid is left inside.
What we like
It features an Infusion Module Add-On for tea and fruits
Has a secret compartment to store snacks
What we dislike
Since it is a glass bottle, it can break easily and must be handled with care
10. Imbue
Meet Imbue – the magnetic tea-infusing vessel. This unique device brews great-tasting loose-leaf tea anywhere for you. You don’t need to carry your entire kitchen with you! It is designed to simplify the process of brewing loose-leaf tea for you. It easily and effortlessly steeps leaves at home or on the go.
Why is it noteworthy?
Imbue can prepare delicious hot or cold tea for you. It prepares single-serving loose tea for you wherever you like. It also functions as an excellent water bottle once the tea is over. It serves well as a multi-use vessel.
What we like
Made from shatter-resistant borosilicate glass which functions as an effective insulator
The lid is made from bamboo, adding an eco-friendly element
