Tag Archives: 2023

10 Most Innovative Designs Of 2023: Furniture

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The furniture of a home is what truly makes or breaks it. When you pick the right kind of furniture design, you build the essence and soul of a home. And it is essential that the soul of our home reflects our soul. Hence, you need to pick furniture designs that truly and authentically represent your personality, while bringing out the best in your home. And, we’ve curated a collection of innovative, functional, and sophisticated furniture designs that we feel will make an excellent addition to your home. These are our top furniture picks from 2023 – enjoy!

1. The Time Table

This desk is a unique and innovative one, as it makes the passing of time visible and tangible, enabling people to maintain a personal relationship with time as they invest in activities, projects, and other work.

Why is it noteworthy?

The desk is equipped with a sub-table that moves up and down, and it changes its elevation as time passes, before simply returning to its base state at the lowest point. It is time as a reverse hourglass, in which the movement of time is displayed visually.

What we like

  • Enables users to measure, log, and be aware of how much time they’re spending there

What we dislike

  • The desk could also become a bit distracting, especially for those who have trouble concentrating

2. Flow Wall Desk

Dubbed the Flow Wall Desk, this excellent piece of office furniture is designed for offices with space constraints. It is functional and decorative, while also following a sustainable and simple design ideology. When propped against your wall, it looks like an exceptional piece of art, one that instantly catches your attention!

Why is it noteworthy?

When the Flow Wall Desk is stored and folded up it looks like an art piece on your wall owing to its minimalist and intriguing shape. However, when you unfold it, it transforms into a ‘spiraling caterpillar’ from a flat canvas, functioning as a desk where you work, read, and write.

What we like

  • Has a convenient flatpack form that is easy to store away
  • Multifunctional furniture design

What we dislike

  • Folding and unfolding the desk whenever you need to use it means we can’t have a constant, which could be inconvenient for some users

3. Tokyo

Called Tokyo, this ingenious multifunctional design functions as a shoe rack and a bench. It is the combination of two furniture pieces in the form of one individual furniture design.

Why is it noteworthy?

Tokyo is a unique and special furniture piece. It features a side leg that gently and seamlessly curves, softly embracing the cushion to build a top tray for daily essentials. It serves as a cozy and neat spot to store your souvenirs and knick-knacks.

What we like

  • Equipped with a bottom shelf that functions as a nifty storage space

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we’re not sure how functional it will be in reality

4. Bookgroove

This unique furniture design is truly one-of-a-kind as it functions as a bookrack and a table. It has a seamless and well-crafted body that makes it an ideal fit for contemporary homes. Dubbed the Bookgroove, it is a conceptual design that deserves to be converted into a real one.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Bookgrove is circular at first glance, but as you look closer you see it has a J-shaped carving on one side that can accommodate multiple books. It is an unusual way to store books, as they follow the shape of the built-in shelf on the side table.

What we like

  • The top section can accommodate a cup of coffee or a glass of wine
  • It’s a fun + unique way to store your favorite books

What we dislike

  • The books placed at the bottom of the curve can get damaged over time because of the way they are placed
  • Difficult to access books when you want to read them

5. Snowhouse Sofa

Called the Snowhouse Sofa, this interesting furniture is designed for pets and humans alike. If a wooden sofa experienced some snow and was coated with it, it would look like the Snowhouse Sofa!

Why is it noteworthy?

The wooden sofa is covered with cushy white cushions that give it the picturesque impression of fallen snow. The edges of the sofa are rounded, which adds a depth of softness and elegance to the furniture piece. The ends of the sofa are hollow, and marked with little spaces to accommodate books, magazines, and other miscellaneous items.

What we like

  • The upper section functions as a passage for your cats
  • Features smart storage spaces

What we dislike

  • The Snowhouse Sofa is currently a concept, so we don’t know how the actual product will turn out to be

6. Plot Twist Bookshelf

PLOT TWIST Bookshelves

PLOT TWIST Bookshelf Concept

Designed by Deniz Aktay, the Plot Twist Bookshelf features four separate twisted wooden elements that are connected to one another, building a stable and innovative form. The unconventional and mesmerizing design truly captures whoever looks at it!

Why is it noteworthy?

The bookshelf’s design can be accessed from every side. It is oddly satisfying and features curves that are seen in the designer’s other projects. Most of the furniture designs undergo bending and twisting like Aktay’s Wavelet, Tie Stool, and the Pet Table.

What we like

  • Similarly sized books can be easily arranged for a clutter-free look
  • Stable design that stands on its own

What we dislike

  • Space-consuming design, not well-suited for homes with space constraints

7. Alada Folding Desk

The Alada Folding Desk is a nifty and convenient space-saving desk that doubles up as an adorable decorative shelf. You can transform the desk into a display shelf in seconds, and it can hold your favorite souvenirs and potted plants.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Alada desk was designed to cater to the ever-growing need for smart and flexible desk designs for working at home. It is essential to have a transformative and space-saving workspace at home – one that can be stored away when the day ends!

What we like

  • Equipped with hidden storage spaces when folded up

What we dislike

  • Not the best option for people who prefer large and elaborate desks

8. Refold

Dubbed Refold, this foldable desk is made using cardboard. It uses a few pieces that can be folded down into a relatively thin rectangle that can be carried around with you and used as either a standing or sitting desk.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Refold is a sustainable and efficient option for those who want to set up a desk outdoors. It can be used indoors, to function as a space-saving desk that can be assembled and disassembled within a few minutes, or to offer a unique aesthetic.

What we like

  • Sustainable and flexible design

What we dislike

  • Will be difficult to carry a large canvas with you everywhere, and you may get funny looks from people

9. FTP Desk

This unique table design concept functions as a multi-purpose setup that can transform into something like a puzzle game, wherein different pieces can be fit into different places, depending on what is the needed functionality for the furniture design.

Why is it noteworthy?

Features an orange circle that can be moved around and away from the rest of the table. Moving this shape around and changing its position becomes both a symbol and a ritual that can help your mind shift to a different kind of activity, whichever one you decide to associate with its position.

What we like

  • Modular and shape-changing design that can be used for multiple functionalities

What we dislike

  • Shifting the various modules can be a major inconvenience for those who prefer one steady furniture piece

10. KNOT Stool

Called the KNOT Stool, this uniquely designed stool is flat all around and is made up of various layers of wood, which provides the stool with a raw and brutalist aesthetic.

Why is it noteworthy?

The three wooden pieces can be painted in the same or different colors. The decorative webbing strap that wraps around the top of the stool’s legs can also come in complementing or contrasting colors, not to mention being made of different materials.

What we like

  • Adds a whimsical + fun element to your interiors
  • Clean, minimal, and compact design

What we dislike

  • Seems to be designed more for viewing rather than sitting

The post 10 Most Innovative Designs Of 2023: Furniture first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Most Innovative Designs of 2023: Tiny Homes

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We discovered the beauty and magic of tiny homes a couple of years ago, and we’re happy to see it was an excellent discovery. Since then, tiny homes have gained immense popularity, and been experimented with to create even better, more beautiful, and functional designs. We saw a torrent of ingenious and thoughtfully designed tiny homes in 2023, and we’ve curated some of our favorites for you. These unique tiny homes are space-saving and eco-friendly, reducing the load on Mother Earth, while also managing to look as cute as a button. From a 3D-printed tiny home that has the same price tag as a car to the world’s smartest tiny home that expands up to 3 times its original size – these tiny homes will have you swooning!

1. Nestron’s Tiny Homes

Nestron’s range of tiny homes is pretty sleek and futuristic with a highly customizable and aesthetically pleasing prefab design. The range includes the – Cube One (C1), Cube Two (C2), and Cube Two X (C2X) homes that cost from $42.2k to $126.6k, depending on the configuration you choose at Nestron’s online showroom.

Why is it noteworthy?

The futuristic homes include solar electricity (or local electricity), heating, and a fully-equipped bathroom with a smart toilet. The interiors can be customized, and they’re quite stunning and ideal for sci-fi fans who want their own futuristic homes!

What we like

  • Almost everything is handled by Nestron – from logistics and transport to unloading
  • Built from recyclable materials

What we dislike

  • They’re not very spacious, even the most expensive option, Cube Two X, only offers 398 square feet of space

2. Pod Studio

Meet the world’s smartest tiny home called Pod Studio! Designed by California-based Podform, the Pod Studio is an innovative and one-of-a-kind tiny home that can expand up to three times its original size. It is built using steel and aluminum and features a solar awning energy system

Why is it noteworthy?

The original size of the Pod Studio is 161 square feet, and it can be converted to 454 square feet within 15 minutes! It is easily transportable and portable and doesn’t need any foundation, because of its built-in hydraulic legs.

What we like

  • Equipped with solar panels and smart technology that can be easily controlled through an app

What we dislike

  • It’s not out on the market yet, so we’re not sure what the final home will be like

3. Vagabundo Flex

This special little home is called the Vagabundo Flex, and it extends over two levels, thanks to an innovative automated lifting root system that provides the home with enhanced comfort and functionality. The unique home is constructed using timber framing, wood fiber insulation, and double-glazed aluminum windows.

Why is it noteworthy?

It features an innovative and unique design that supports the roof, allowing it to rise to a height of 20.3 feet, which creates a spacious and expansive interior that occupies 300 square feet.

What we like

  • Bulky elements have been smartly hidden in corners and cupboards
  • Equipped with essential amenities, including panoramic windows and timber furnishings

What we dislike

  • Hefty price tag as compared to other tiny homes on the market

4. Fujitsubo

Japanese construction startup Serendix unveiled ‘Fujitsubo’ – a small home priced at 5.5 million yen or around $37,600! Serendix says it takes almost 44.5 hours to print and assemble the home.

Why is it noteworthy?

This compact home is called the Fujitsubo, or “the barnacle”, and it occupies only 538 square feet, which is quite small when compared to the average American home, which happens to be five times large. The home is 3D-printed and houses one bedroom, a bathroom, and an open living room connected to a kitchen.

What we like

  • Costs as much as a car while offering essential amenities and features

What we dislike

  • It’s still in the conceptual phase, so we’re not sure how the final structure will turn out to be

5. Câpsula

This tiny homes concept is called Câpsula, and it is designed by architecture studio i29. Launched during Dutche Design Week 2023, these prefabricated cabins and tiny homes are inspired by design-led thinking and aim to be simple yet functional.

Why is it noteworthy?

The project is pretty small-scale but the plans and ambitions for it are quite large. The goal and intention behind the project is to promote slow living, and create the ideal cabin architecture with a couple of amazing options.

What we like

  • Influenced by the minimalist style of architecture
  • Equipped with top-notch amenities and features

What we dislike

  • The small footprint of the homes may be considered too small for some

6. Ecocapsule NextGen

A few years ago, Ecocapsule launched a unique egg-shaped off-grid tiny home which was a major hit! And, now they’ve released a new and improved version called the Ecocapsule NextGen. The Ecocapsule NextGen promises to be an upgraded and elevated version of the tiny home.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Ecocapsule NextGen is larger than the previous home, it has been expanded to 5.2m from 4.67m, which makes it bigger than the original version, while also allowing it to maintain a compact and efficient form.

What we like

  • Features a gull-wing door that makes the home more open to the outdoors

What we dislike

  • It’s not released on the market, so we don’t know what the actual final product will be like

7. The Nest

Dubbed the Nest, this tiny cabin is one of the short-term rental properties available at ReWild Rentals. Nestled in Hocking Hills, Ohio, the cabin displays the stunning beauty of the location to the guests. It features a unique layout that makes it feel much bigger than it is!

Why is it noteworthy?

The small house is clad in black board-and-batten wood siding, providing it with a modern and contemporary vibe which is further defined by a long sloping roof on one side, which also offers shelter to the outdoor patio.

What we like

  • Unique layout unlike the typical tiny homes, which makes it feel much larger than it is

What we dislike

  • The barn-style door can be considered a bit old-fashioned and doesn’t provide much privacy in the bathroom, which is inconvenient for residents

8. Sakura Tiny House

Designed by Canada-based Acorn Tiny Homes, the Sakura tiny house is intended to be a game-changer compared to typical tiny homes on the market. It doesn’t feature wheels, but instead is equipped with an innovative space-saving interior which includes a transforming bedroom and kitchen.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Sakura tiny home is breaking ground in the tiny home arena, by taking this popular housing style to a whole new and upgraded version. It is inspired by popular Japanese design trends, which can be even witnessed in its name.

What we like

  • Heavily inspired by Japanese design holistically
  • Features a flexible multipurpose space, making it truly one-of-a-kind

What we dislike

  • It can accommodate two residents and only two guests, and it could be a tight fit. Not the best option for families who like to host people

9. Browny

Coined Browny, this adorable-looking tiny home ranks high on versatility, as it can effortlessly and efficiently house a home office, exercise area, and a guest bedroom within a length of 6 meters, while also proving to be quite comfortable.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Browny is supported by a double-axle trailer and finished in red cedar, which is further accentuated by aluminum accenting and a roof. It is a great-looking tiny home with a generous amount of glazing to maximize natural light within the home.

What we like

  • Accommodates multiple amenities in a small space
  • Features integrated storage space

What we dislike

  • Doesn’t feature a proper kitchen and bathroom, which can be inconvenient for users

10. Samara and James’ Tiny Home

This 16-foot-long tiny home was designed by a lovely couple Samara and James, and is home to them. It features all the design ideas and moves you usually wouldn’t execute in a small space, making this tiny home a truly unique one.

Why is it noteworthy?

Although the interior and exterior have a dark theme, and there aren’t a lot of windows in the house, the home still manages to be quite spacious with a certain balance to it, while maintaining a serene connection to the site it is located on.

What we like

  • Inspired by Japanese design, especially by shou sugi ban
  • Features three modules, that can be moved and reconfigured if the home ever needs to be expanded

What we dislike

  • It only features an outdoor shower, which some people may not be comfortable with

The post 10 Most Innovative Designs of 2023: Tiny Homes first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Unique Women’s Day gifts to achieve the work-life balance

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Women’s Day is celebrated globally to mark the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and accelerate gender parity. But even today, the primary responsibility of running the home and family lies on the woman. For a woman who’s balancing work and home chores, the entire ordeal can be exhausting — it’s a constant struggle, primarily if you work from home.

It’s time to #BreakTheBias! Especially when women are doing so much more — be it an overburdened mom, an athlete training during her painful menstrual cycle, a professional achiever constantly reminded about her biological clock , or a pregnant woman clocking in 12+ hours a day. As a result, women are often emotionally and physically drained. These factors silently affect mental health, and stability, causing fatigue and slow burnout. A proper work-life balance can only be achieved if one can finish work deadlines and have some personal time for friends and family, sleep well, and eat right without worrying about the work pressure.
We have a specially curated collection of gifts for Women’s Day that aim to maximize productivity with an organized workspace, encouraging one to prioritize self-care and destress. Women need to find the perfect balance between their professional and personal life as women are the real architects of society.

1. Get Organized

Make sure to organize yourself to save time before you start organizing anything else! Now you don’t have to remember where you kept your stuff. Made in warm beech wood and durable aluminum, this sleek and functional quick-access organizer is a perfect way to keep your desk and shelves tidy. The magnetic rotating mechanism of the organizer makes space for plenty of storage. The lid also functions as a tray, and there is ample space for keeping your keys, spectacles, wallet, and other EDC tools.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

2. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter

Letter opener

Enjoy the process of opening your letters with the effortless standing letter cutter. All you need to do is simply slide an envelope across its sleek metal bar and slice an opening to get that letter out. It makes an incision on one side of the envelope so that no scraps of paper need to be thrown out. Plus, it works as a stylish paperweight or desk accessory when not in use.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

3. Celebrate Creativity

There is a creative solution to every problem! The gravity-defying design of the space-inspired pen is a great way to enhance your productivity and mentally reduce the work pressure. This pen uses magnets to create a magical experience that delights the mind and the eyes. It simultaneously works as a writing tool and a fidget toy. The levitating pen’s futuristic design offers a familiar tactile sensation that lets you write, scribble, or draw. Then, when you give a twist in its dock, you will witness its hypnotic kinetic motion, giving your brain a much-needed break and allowing your creative juices to flow.

Click Here to Buy Now: $129

4. Make a to-do List

With effective planning and strategy, one can easily take off the mental and physical load. Stay organized at work so that you can manage your time efficiently. The traditional route of writing down tasks allows one to set goals and complete the most important tasks. Create a definite time frame to schedule the tasks, and there is a strict line between work time and family time.

Perfect for daily to-do lists, the whiteboard notebook combines the power of magnets and offers the freedom of a whiteboard-like experience. Designed as an innovative analogue notebook for the digital age, it is made with a unique material that makes it possible to erase pen marks on it and reuse a page. The pages magnetically attach and can be removed and rearranged accordingly. The best part is that the removable pages can stick to magnetic surfaces like fridge doors. In addition, its anti-glare properties make it easy to take photos of the pages.

Click Here to Buy Now: $79

5. Enjoy Hands-free Reading

Do you want to multitask while reading? This bookish bookmark will help you to keep your book open. Its transparent acrylic resin surface allows uninterrupted reading without touching the book. It also allows multitasking so that one can keep their hands busy with something else. The curved profile of the book-shaped paperweight keeps books open naturally without damaging their spine. It also protects pages from accidental smudges or spills.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

6. Office Accessories

Limit your distractions with a straightforward and well-organized space. Perfect for an office or home office, these leather desk accessories, like one desk pad, a square pencil cup, a paper holder, and a letter tray, help you to achieve a tidy workspace. Note that there is a consistent workflow when you find your work supplies and papers easily. Plus, decluttering is an important component of staying organized and maximizes productivity.

Click Here to Buy Now: $773

7. Destress

Stay as positive as you can, aromatherapy is a natural remedy for stress relief, and sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is to relax. The stress-free aroma diffuser allows one to inhale the scents of essential oils to promote good health and well-being and regulate emotions. This essential oil diffuser creates a gentle breeze allowing the scent to spread evenly and slowly. Its minimalist looks and rechargeable battery will enable you to place the diffuser anywhere, and its porcelain filter is easy to clean. Go for essential oils like lavender, lemongrass, jasmine, and sweet orange have anxiety-reducing properties and promote good sleep.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

8. Cut the Clutter

It is difficult to achieve focus in a cluttered environment, as clutter causes stress and hampers productivity. Create a clutter-free desk without handling a bunch of extension cords or cable wires. The wireless charger can be carried wherever you go, which is a perfect way to keep your battery full.

Click Here to Buy Now: $79.99

9. Music for the soul

Prioritize me-time and rejuvenate your spirit. Good music can potentially reduce stress and anxiety and improve focus. As per studies, fast music makes you alert and enhances concentration, while slow-tempo music releases all the pressure of the day. Moreover, it evokes emotions that effectively relax the mind and help cope with everyday stress.

The sleek CD player breaks away from the mold with a minimalist art device reminiscent of old-school vinyl records. Its plain, boxy shape resembles a picture frame where the CD player can be displayed like album art in music apps. The best part is that when hung on the walls, the device transforms into an interesting decor. But, of course, other activities like reading, music, and yoga can also help you to destress.

Click Here to Buy Now: $159

10. Jewelry Organizer

Be kind to yourself and look your best because only a happy woman can raise a happy family. Pamper yourself with beautiful, practical jewelry pieces and protect your treasures in this fine leather roll. The jewelry organizer roll is an organizational necessity for holding rings and earrings, tangle-free storage for necklaces, and are an ideal travel accessory because of its compact size.

So this international women’s day, empower yourself and pledge to create that work-life balance, rest well, destress, and live a healthy life. It will protect your health and well-being, make you happier, and stronger in the long run.

Click Here to Buy Now: $85

The post 10 Unique Women’s Day gifts to achieve the work-life balance first appeared on Yanko Design.

Get a splash of Pantone’s 2023 Color of the Year : Viva Magenta

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An unconventional color for unconventional times, the Pantone Color Institute chose 18-1750 Viva Magenta as the Pantone Color of 2023. Three years into the COVID-19 pandemic, global lockdowns have drastically changed how most people choose to work and live. Off late, there have also been some unprecedented circumstances, such as facing war, an unstable economy, climate crisis, and breakdown of supply chains that have added to the challenging times. Hence, as we usher into the new year, the human race must redefine its vision and write a new narrative. Resonating with this idea, Viva Magenta has an electrifying aura, signals strength, energy, and vigor, encourages one to be optimistic and motivated, and gathers collective strength to move forward. Additionally, this unique color communicates power in an assertive but not aggressive way and is also the color of the resilience of the human spirit.

“In this age of technology, we look to draw inspiration from nature and what is real,” says Leatrice Eiseman, the Pantone institute’s executive director. She adds, “Invoking the forces of nature, PANTONE galvanized our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.”
The Pantone color of the year is a vibrant and nuanced hue lifted from the red family. Featuring a balance and fusion of warm and cool tones, the bold and one-of-a-kind shade inspires one to be fearless and echo exuberance. Nature was considered one of the most inspiring sources for choosing the color, and it takes a cue from natural cochineal dyes derived from a type of small insect, one of the strongest and brightest the world has known. Viva Majenta is also an attempt to revisit, respect, and reconnect with history while hoping for a more positive future, as the rich hues of the natural dye have been used since the second century BC.

Image Courtesy: Huge

Viva Magenta is evocative of the metaverse as it examines the connections between the real and virtual worlds and strives to balance nature and technology. It promotes out-of-the-box thinking and innovation and encourages one to choose unconventional paths and carve new journeys. The hybrid color oscillates between the physical and multi-dimensional virtual world, thus offering an opportunity to reconnect with the earth. The intent is to immerse ourselves in creative energies and enhance our well-being.
As digital spaces have accelerated globalization and brought forth a new way of living, the virtual world is a prominent part of our everyday life. It cleverly merges the warmth of the natural world with the endless, rich possibilities of digital space and artificial intelligence. A psychological and emotional component also allows people to connect with others and deepen their empathy. As a result, the ecosystem of the metaverse needs to explore this, too, as it will enable people to connect and be empathetic toward others. This year’s Color of the Year is audacious, empowering, and inclusive of everyone, with the same verve for life and a rebellious spirit. It is an audacious color and is full of strength and wit.

Balloon Swan (Magenta) by Jeff Koon

Color attracts attention, sets the tone, and plays a key role in enhancing one’s mood. Hence it is important to choose the right color palette for the interiors. So break away from the traditional interior design schemes and discover how Viva Magenta can infuse a fresh, dynamic, and joyous vibe into any space.

Choose the Colour Combination

Viva Magenta is a rich color that adds depth and weight to the walls and pairs beautifully with neutral shades of whites and grays to achieve wonderful contrast and balance. It creates an uplifting and playful atmosphere in any space. When paired with light woody tones, it infuses an organic vibe into the room and lends an outdoorsy quality to the interior space. The generous dose of this hue works well with other pops of bright colors and injects vibrance and personality while offering a cozy and inviting vibe. However, at times this combination may seem a bit dark, so it’s pivotal to introduce layered lighting to balance the space. Beautify the interiors with plenty of plants or flowers. The hues of red and green are on the opposite ends of the color wheel and tend to contrast each other and impart elegance.

Image Courtesy: Carl Dellatore

Create a Focus Wall

A splash of Viva Magenta on a focus wall enlivens the area and prevents the space from looking cold and sterile. It’s a rich accent hue for the interiors, and a perfect way to inject personality in the form of wall paint or wallpaper, or one can experiment with visual textures or textured paint. Note that a burst of this eye-catching color has the potential to inject quirk and lift the interiors of a muted space. To create a focus wall, select a spot that immediately catches the eye — think of the wall behind the sofas or dining table. One can also create an accent wall to bring a joyful visual flavor. Opt for a refreshing variety of tiles for the backsplash wall of the bathroom and make a strong style statement. Lending character to the walls with photo frames or murals in neutral colors will do wonders on such a focus wall.

Accesorise the Space

The Pantone color is clearly a show stealer and is striking enough to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Small doses as an accent color do not overwhelm the space, and small accessories are easy to swap for a seasonal look. Viva Magenta is a beautiful hue that adds drama and can be introduced through artwork, candles, vases, and sculptural décor pieces. Consider using this nature-inspired shade in a matte finish, as it may impart a synthetic look in a gloss finish.

Image Courtesy: IBDesign Otthon

Bring Statement Furniture

Accent pieces of furniture in this attention-grabbing color can make the space stand out. Viva Magenta is not only energetic but there is a richness to this color that not only brings in an opulent feel but also goes with materials like wood and metal. Colorful pieces of accent furniture such as the sofa, accent chair, ottoman, and cocktail table create a bold statement; they add a pop of color and draw the immediate attention of the eye in both traditional and contemporary spaces.

Image Courtesy: Sanderson

Add Color with Soft Furnishing

Get creative with the soft furnishing and add personality, as these pieces quickly change the look and feel of the space. Viva Magenta is a dark color that may look intense, so introduce it in smaller ways with decorative accents like pillows, curtains, throws, bedspreads, carpets. Use it in limited doses; the heavier the color, the more visual space it takes up, making the room look smaller. Consider a single showstopper element in Viva Magenta, like a rug or runner, to create a warm and intimate space and demarcate spaces on the floor. A statement piece is striking enough to infuse glamor and create an inviting atmosphere and offer playful freshness into the space. However, make sure that the rest of the furniture and walls are in neutral tones. For a luxurious look, opt for furnishing with a soft and rich texture in this unique shade.

 

Image Courtesy: Studio Tmrw

The post Get a splash of Pantone’s 2023 Color of the Year : Viva Magenta first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 exercise equipment you achieve your fitness goals for 2023

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It’s a brand new year, and what a new year usually brings with it is a whole bunch of fitness goals and health resolutions! If you’re one of those motivated souls who has some focused fitness goals to achieve this year – then you’ve reached the right place. However, if you’re not a total gym rat, and don’t enjoy hitting the gym every day, then a disciplined home workout regime may be the perfect solution for you. And to do so, you definitely need a great collection of exercise equipment to support your workout routine, and goals. This collection of exercise equipment will not only motivate you to work out in the comfort of your own home, but will also ensure you stick to your daily exercise routine in the future. From a clever and thoughtful home gym that merges with your living room to a rowing machine that uses a minimalistic and recyclable design – these innovative exercise equipment will prevent you from skipping leg day in 2023!

1. Tempo Move

This compact home gym is more than just an exercise assistant. This fitness accessory is designed to stand next to your furniture in the living room and eliminate your runs to the store room for gymming. Tempo Move is a sublime blend of materials, colors, and finishes, which makes it a discrete piece of furniture to turn your living space into a home gym.

Why is it noteworthy?

The workout equipment goes behind the fabric cabinet while the top feature an iPhone dock compatible with iPhone XR and upward. With the unique combination of furniture and gym, Tempo Move connects to any large-screen TV to let you see your exercise routine and have the trainers coach you in real time.

What we like

  • Unless you open the cabinet, anyone would mistake it for an elegant cabinet you’d bought from Wayfair
  • The neat-looking Tempo Move console houses within its cabinetry 16 weight plates, 4 weight collars, 2 dumbbells, and a heart rate monitor

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

2. AROUND

This concept for a spinning bike called AROUND tries to have a softer look as compared to those super serious exercise bikes you see in gyms. The light gray color makes it more approachable and the flywheel body design makes it ideal to have at home, as part of your living room furniture, or even in your bedroom. The mood board for their design concept includes mollusks and portable water purifiers as well as other previous designs from Yifeeling.

Why is it noteworthy?

This exercise bike also has a tuyere-like design instead of just the regular faucet handle seen on exercise machines so you get a bit of breeze while you’re spinning. This should be able to simulate the air flowing through you at least if you’re biking outdoors. There’s a small monitor in the handle so you can watch something while biking as some find it a bit boring to just cycle indoors.

What we like

  • The tuyere-like design allows you to get a bit of breeze while spinning
  • Soft aesthetics

What we dislike

  • The seat looks pretty uncomfortable

3. Bownce

Bownce is a small ball that can get you perspiring and training your muscle groups with the help of technology. It calls itself “the first IoT ball of its kind”.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is small enough and easy to install that you can bring it with you to the office, outside in your backyard, or wherever room/space in your house you feel most comfortable. It’s also small enough that it’s not that intimidating, especially for newbies like me that want to start punching things.

What we like

  • What makes it different from other workout balls, aside from its size, is that it has integrated electric components so you’ll be able to track your performance
  • The app that you connect to the device logs your punches when you work out and gives you real-time statistics

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

4. Peleton Vibe

Peloton Vibe caters to every sense and muscle from start to finish, it is truly a whole vibe. The bench has a unique multi-position arm that can be moved to work with a variety of exercises.

Why is it noteworthy?

The lower portion stores a set of dumbbells that help expand to a larger range of guided workouts by the Peloton App service. Once you complete your workout, the bench seat and arm surface seamlessly transform into a massage experience. It utilizes built-in massage balls that can rotate and heat up based on your preferences. At-home gym equipment AND at-home spa? I would work out more often simply so I can make the most of the heated massage feature.

What we like

  • Has a unique multi-position arm that can be moved to work with a variety of exercises
  • Peloton Vibe also doubles up as flexible home furniture

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

5. Lora

Lora is a concept for an indoor rowing machine that is hoping to ease the boredom of working out while still giving you the aerobic workout that you need.

Why is it noteworthy?

It also wants to find the balance between humans and the environment by using plastic and aluminum that can eventually be recycled when the product reaches its end of life. To also help you not get that bored while working out, there is a stand to attach to your smartphone or small tablet so you can watch something else while working out.

What we like

  • It is able to bring together engineering structure and technology to come up with a machine that will help you burn fat and help lessen waste with its recyclable material

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept!

6. Gymera

Gymera revolutionizes home fitness by providing a more enjoyable exercise system that fits right in your home. It even folds up to serve as a full-body mirror that adds a beautiful accent to your home!

Why is it noteworthy?

Gameful design has long been a successful strategy in many industries, and Gymera applies it to fitness to make your reps more engaging and memorable. Whether you’re driving a race car, rowing a boat, or playing tug of war with a Gymera friend, the interactive puts a whole new layer of experience into your workouts. The smart home gym machine is equipped with a variety of sensors and a vivid 27-inch 4K touch screen that helps immerse you in that virtual world to the point that you might even forget you’re actually sweating it out at home.

What we like

  • The 5MP camera easily lets you and your friends enjoy a Facetime workout together even when you’re far apart
  • Gymera’s AI system can analyze your posture in real-time and give you feedback on your form

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

7. The GYMO-FIT

Meet the GYMO-FIT concept motorbike that has the typical urban commuter vibes, and a sturdy exercise bike to keep fit. The uncertain times in the last couple of years have prompted people to go for home fitness setups – that’s why exercise bikes have grown in popularity in recent times.

Why is it noteworthy?

This concept bike doubles as a two-wheeler at least and doesn’t sit in a lonely corner in your living room, in case you give up on your fitness regime. It’s a combination of an electric bike with aerobic and anaerobic fitness equipment. GYMO has three different modes when parked sturdily on the stand.

What we like

  • Functions as a two-wheeler and an exercise equipment

What we dislike

  • We’re not sure if it’s truly a viable option in the real world

8. Castleflexx

Castleflexx is “a multi-purpose stretching and strength tool designed to help athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone with chronic pain improve both their flexibility, core strength, and mobility.”

Why is it noteworthy?

What Castleflexx essentially does is, it focuses on the posterior chain of the lower limb by stretching the soft tissues of your toes, foot, calf, and hamstring. It helps your fascial and nerve tissue release, in turn, improving issues related to lower back pain, herniated discs, and plantar fasciitis. Casteflexx’s goal is to make ‘Prehab’ an easy and accessible process, and to ensure people can prevent injuries from even happening!

What we like

  • Crafted from sustainable materials
  • Has a universal appeal to different types of users

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

9. Boom

Designed by Shuxian Hong, Boom is a smart boxing bag meant to bring the workout experience to your home. It integrates a punching bag, a smart speaker, and interactive illumination technology into a streamlined boxing experience, designed specifically for your home.

Why is it noteworthy?

When not being used to actually box, Boom can function as a home speaker, that perfectly merges with the rest of your living space. You can pair it up with your TV or other smart devices, and activate it via Siri or Alexa, through a simple command. When you use Boom to box, the interactive lighting system starts up! Lighting elements, lively music, and voice instructions create a truly interactive and engaging boxing experience.

What we like

  • Functions as exercise equipment, and a speaker

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

10. Floe

Recognized by Good Design for 2021’s Sport and Lifestyle category, Floe appears as a simple, backless bench, but hidden storage compartments reveal much more. Stocked with everything you might need in the gym, including a yoga mat, foam roller, kettlebell, and medicine ball, Floe even comes with a virtual coaching feature similar to the services found on Peloton.

Why is it noteworthy?

Equipped with an extendable viewing stand and iPad, Floe users can follow along with programmed workouts in the comfort of their own homes. From yoga to weight training, Floe offers it all and transforms back into an inconspicuous entryway bench once the sweat session ends.

What we like

  • Features hidden storage compartments and slide-out drawers
  • Doubles up as furniture piece for your home

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

The post Top 10 exercise equipment you achieve your fitness goals for 2023 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 solar-powered designs you need to achieve your go green resolution in 2023

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Welcoming 2023 has sure been a fun and ecstatic affair, we’re all brimming over with excitement and ambition, and have an arsenal of resolutions to achieve. And one resolution that we should all be striving towards collectively – is to start living more consciously and in an eco-friendly manner, which includes paying attention to, and giving consideration to our energy sources. Curbing fossil fuel consumption has now become a priority, and we have a more positive energy source in mind as an alternative – the Sun! Solar energy has pretty much won over the world, and we see it being utilized in all aspects of design, whether it’s solar-powered kitchen appliances, homes, or even hotels! And, we’ve put together a collection of ingenious solar-powered products that will make a MAJOR difference in your everyday life. From a paper-thin solar cell that could bring solar power to any surface, to solar-powered umbrella canopies inspired by Acacia trees – these solar-powered designs are bound to make some eco-friendly waves in 2023.

1. The Luci Beam LED

Designed by Mpowered, the Luci Beam LED is a 2-in-1 solar-powered headlamp and flashlight, that is power-packed in a water-resistant body, allowing it to be utilized in all kinds of situations without any hassle. The product can provide up to 300 lumens of brightness, which should come in handy in so many use cases: whether you are searching for something in the store room or illuminating your pathway during a hike.

Why is it noteworthy?

Luci Beam’s ability to transform from a handheld to a headlamp is what makes it stand out from other lighting designs in the market! The 2-in-1 headlamp and flashlight is solar-powered but can also be recharged via USB if there is no sun, so you are never left stranded in the middle of an adventure.

What we like

  • Features a micro-USB cable to charge on the go
  • A secure headband for the headlamp and the wrist strap for the flashlight make sure that the device is always securely strapped on

What we dislike

  • We’re not sure how sturdy it is to handle the rough outdoors

2. Paper-thin Solar Cell

MIT researchers created a paper-thin solar cell that is so thin and lightweight, that you can place it on almost any kind of surface! solar panels can generate 370 watts per kilogram of power, which is actually 18 times more as compared to regular solar cells.

Why is it noteworthy?

Not only does this mean that they are viable alternatives to heavy panels that burden your roof, but they can also be installed on almost any surface, including flexible ones like boat sails or tents. This paper-thin solar cell is excellent for tents, especially when they are situated in disaster-stricken areas, where power grids may not be operable at times.

What we like

  • 18 times more powerful compared to conventional cells
  • Can be bent or rolled like a piece of paper

What we dislike

  • Missing a protective layer that will protect the cells from the environment

3. Ecacia

Designed by Samuel Wilkinson, Ecacia is a tree-like structure inspired by one of the species of the Acacia tree that grows in eastern and Southern Africa. This huge umbrella-like structure not only provides shade from sun and rain but can also power amenities located near it or charge electric vehicles as well.

Why is it noteworthy?

It features four programmable LED lamps that give off light to the surrounding areas at the night. Prototypes in the future will also be amped with a cooling mist function so that the public areas can be cooled down during the warm season. The umbrellas will provide a temporary respite to passersby.

What we like

  • Features 708 monocrystalline solar panels to capture solar energy

What we dislike

  • It’s still in the prototype stage!

4. HeliaSol

Designed by German brand Heliatek, HeliaSol has been around the market since 2017. It functions as a nifty sticker that you can stick onto or set up in schools, wind turbine facilities, and other spaces with large surfaces. And the brand has now come up with a new innovation called the HeliaFilm.

Why is it noteworthy?

HeliaFilm is a stick-on roll of film, that can stick to materials such as concrete, metal, and glass. The HeliaFilm can generate 170 watts per square meter and can be installed on all sorts of surfaces. The solar film can produce a 17.2% yield when utilized on a roll-up textile base.

What we like

  • Created by material recycling
  • Uses organic photovoltaic technology

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

5. The Tesla Solar Range Extending Trailer

Tesla quietly launched one of its innovations at IdeenExpo in Hannover German. The EV giant unveiled a prototype of yet another product they’re working on – a trailer that attaches to the back of your EV and has been amped with fold-out solar panels and battery packs that help expand your EV’s range.

Why is it noteworthy?

Called, the Tesla Solar Range Extending trailer, the electric vehicle is quite simply put – massive. It’s as big as the other large trailers on the market, and it boasts fold-out solar panels that charge a pretty large battery pack placed below it. This battery pack can be used as an additional power source for the EV.

What we like

  •  Features a SpaceX Starlink internet terminal
  • Amped with solar panels

What we dislike

  • We don’t know if or when it will be launched

6. The Parelio

The Parelio looks like a super fun design, and it is! It is a  solar-powered beach umbrella that is able to harness the power of the sun to create sustainable energy. The accessory is ideal for both lawns and beaches, and it can absorb sunlight, and convert it into electricity that can be used to power phone chargers, coolers, mini-fridges, and machinery as well!

Why is it noteworthy?

Instead of the usual beach umbrella design that folds down towards the earth, this one folds upward towards the sun as it absorbs its energy. The inspiration for the design is a combination of origami and the solar systems on NASA spacecraft.

What we like

  • Amped with foldable photovoltaic panels
  • Folds upwards towards the sun, rather than towards the earth

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

7. The Solgaard Solarbank Boombox

Solgaard Solarbank Boombox Shell 1

Solgaard Solarbank Boombox 3

Choosing a decent Bluetooth speaker is always a task, but now sustainability has been added to the mix as well! Your tech needs to be more eco-friendly as well now. The aim now is to make “greener” choices for the future of the planet. For this reason, the new Solgaard Solarbank Boombox portable speaker enters the market with a sustainable design.

Why is it noteworthy?

The upcycled plastic design refers to speaker cloth and outer shell from plastic waste. These are waste materials but had been upcycled and used instead. This process is part of the brand’s initiative to pull about 5 lbs of plastic for every product sold.

What we like

  • The Solgaard Solarbank Boombox lets you enjoy music while the battery harnesses the power of the sun
  •  It is sand-proof, water-proof, and drop-proof

What we dislike

  • The speaker’s looks are unimpressive and quite common

8. The Adidas RPT-02 SOL

Dubbed the Adidas RPT-02 SOL, these pair of over-the-ear cans juice up with natural light or even artificial light. So, they’ll not need to recharge any time soon.

Why is it noteworthy?

These headphones are a follow-up to the RPT-01(not solar-powered) and promise almost double the playback time at around 80 hours. Not to forget that the RPT-02 SOL are solar powered, and the battery keeps topping up as long as you are exposed to good lighting conditions.

What we like

  • Crafted out of recycled plastic
  • Used a highly flexible light-cell material by Powerfoyle

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

9. The Matte Works Solar Watches

In today’s day and age, the world of smartwatches is run over by those with disposable lithium-ion batteries and planned obsolescence life cycles, the Matte Works solar watches are literally quite a refreshing change! These minimal and clean watches feature an evergreen aesthetic, that quite smartly conceals the solar panels placed below the watch dial.

Why is it noteworthy?

Unlike a smartwatch that ends up becoming ‘old news’ after the company launches its next version a year later, the Matte Works solar watches stay classy and functional for years, while underscoring the importance of relying on renewable energy.

What we like

  • The watch comes with a classic aesthetic that conceals its powerful feature underneath a tinted dial

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically looks quite similar to other watches on the market

10. Sunnyside

We love bento boxes – they’re super cute, compact, and functional. Now, meet Sunnyside, a nifty bento box quite literally powered by the sun! The bento box features a self-heating and cooling feature that ensures your meal is always at the right temperature. A heating coil around the metal container helps evenly conduct thermal energy around your food, keeping hot stuff hot, or if you’ve got something like an egg/potato salad that’s out in the sun, a pair of fans located on the bottom of the lunchbox pull out warm air, ensuring your food doesn’t spoil in the heat

Why is it noteworthy?

However what sets Sunnyside apart from other bento boxes on the market is that it relies almost entirely on a solar panel built right into its lid, working off renewable energy. A solar panel built into the lid helps charge the Sunnyside’s internal 10,000mAh battery that powers the lunchbox’s heating and cooling features, and a tiny LCD screen and buttons on the side help you control your Sunnyside, choosing how hot or cool you want the contents of your box to be.

What we like

  • Doubles up as a wireless power bank to charge your phone, AirPods, or even your laptop

What we dislike

  • No complaints!

The post Top 10 solar-powered designs you need to achieve your go green resolution in 2023 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Why the UK needs to lead from the front on cutting emissions

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Last week, the UK government’s advisory Committee on Climate Change told the government it had no justification to lower its ambitions to cut carbon emissions. The statement from the Committee,...
    






78,000 to Live on Mars by One-way Trip

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Mars is going to get inhabitants after a decade. Over 78,000 humans have signed up already to visit Mars. Its a huge number despite the fact that its a one way trip. It looks like that Mars One plan...
    


78,000 to Live on Mars by One-way Trip

Posted on by

Mars is going to get inhabitants after a decade. Over 78,000 humans have signed up already to visit Mars. Its a huge number despite the fact that its a one way trip. It looks like that Mars One plan...