Tag Archives: Chinese

Discover Your Ideal Decor Style Through Chinese Astrology

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The Chinese zodiac, or shengxiao, consists of 12 animals representing time cycles, with your sign determined by your lunar birth year. Legend has it that only the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig arrived to bid farewell to a departing god, each earning a place of honor in a year based on their order of arrival. As per studies, one’s personality traits are closely tied to their Chinese zodiac sign and they can influence their individual preferences in home décor. You can explore the colors, materials, and styles aligned with your lunar year to create a living space that resonates with your individuality.

Image courtesy of: GanMed64

YEAR OF RAT

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Birth years: 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020

Personality: Those born in the year of the Rat exhibit cleverness, charm, and curiosity and they are hardworking with a natural inclination for continuous learning.

Décor Style: They are drawn to objects and colors that ignite their imagination, reflecting their charismatic personalities. Those born in the year of the Rat favor light, airy colors, and a touch of geometric patterns, paying homage to their intellectual nature and satisfying their innate thirst for knowledge, a futuristic home is recommended.

YEAR OF OX

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Birth years: 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021

Personality: Individuals born in the year of the ox are decisive, independent, loyal, and philosophical.

Décor Style: They have a preference for minimalistic designs and traditional aesthetics while the interiors of their home incorporate classic silhouettes, dark neutrals, and a clean and fuss-free ambiance.

YEAR OF TIGER

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Birth years: 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

Personality: Individuals born in the year of the Tiger are confident, fun, and courageous, characterized by a vibrant and fiery nature with intense passion and emotionality.

Décor Style: Those born in the year of the tiger have a preference for vibrant colors, and abstract paintings, and a fondness for contrasting materials such as glass, clay, fabric, and wood.

YEAR OF RABBIT

Image courtesy of: FollowTheFlowStudio

Birth years: 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023

Personality: People born in the year of the rabbit are distinguished by their natural compassion, sincerity, and generosity. Recognized for their kindness, care, and loyalty, rabbits tend to exhibit introverted tendencies, often necessitating significant alone time at home for recharging.

Décor Style: They are not fond of a mix of colors or styles but also prefer a monochromatic color palette and comforting textures. Additionally, they opt for a straightforward, clutter-free style that enhances the calming atmosphere.

YEAR OF DRAGON

Image courtesy of: bialasiewicz

Birth years: 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024

Personality: Despite their outward energy and fearlessness, individuals born in the year of the dragon possess a gentle interior, marked by a warm heart and unwavering loyalty. This gentle demeanor coexists with a dynamic personality that is driven by their perpetual quest for new adventures.

Décor Style: Those under the dragon sign value the idea of home and its comforting aspects. Their aesthetic preferences include bold colors and plush designs. Moreover, the prominent warm colors are believed to inspire a feeling of harmony, as they perfectly complement the Dragon’s strong and vibrant presence.

YEAR OF SNAKE

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Birth years: 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025

Personality: Those born in the year of the Snake are charming, clever, and reserved, showcasing intellectual prowess and an observant nature. Also, individuals with this zodiac sign often exhibit wit, sociability, and strong will, reflecting an ambitious nature that inclines them toward a simple, nature-inspired theme to soothe their competitive spirits.

Décor Style: Their décor style reflects their love for bookcases, books, and classic wooden coffee tables. An excellent choice for this is the Japandi interior design style, characterized by clean lines, nature-inspired colors, and bright spaces reminiscent of nature’s soothing qualities to enhance the Snake’s wisdom and intellectual capabilities.

YEAR OF HORSE

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Birth years: 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026

Personality: The horse is an extrovert and is defined by energy and independence and the individuals born under the horse sign in the Chinese zodiac are infused with compassion and love.

Décor Style: Individuals born in the year of the horse find an ideal home aesthetic that incorporates mementos from global travels and soft, comforting designs. Opting for muted colors, classic Scandinavian styles with pale woods like ash and beech are particularly suited for creating a calming home environment.

YEAR OF GOAT

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Birth years: 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027

Personality: Those born in the year of the goat are known as deep thinkers who have a strong appreciation for beautiful things. quiet with gentle, seemingly meek personalities

Décor Style: Create an ideal space for those born in the year of the goat with a decor that encourages creativity, blending a modern and airy ambiance with soft layers and cushions for a hospitable feel. Opt for a warm and inviting aesthetic, like the modern farmhouse style, characterized by natural textures and warm wood tones, to enhance their warmth.

YEAR OF MONKEY

Image courtesy of: bialasiewicz

Birth years: 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028

Personality: Born under the Monkey sign, individuals exude upbeat, playful, and quick-witted traits, radiating joy in their interactions with others among the Chinese zodiac signs.

Décor Style: Their extroverted natures thrive on social engagements while they enjoy a sunny, natural décor that is adorned with live plants and vibrant colors. To moderate potential prankster tendencies, a decor dominated by wooden tones is the best choice, grounding their lively nature.

YEAR OF ROOSTER

Image courtesy of: FollowTheFlowStudio

Birth years: 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029

Personality: Hardworking, vigilant, and independent, individuals born under the rooster sign are goal-oriented and find relaxation in environments that enable them to accomplish tasks on their to-do lists and strategize for future successes.

Décor Style: Individuals born in the year of the Rooster should ideally have a home featuring at least one work setup with classic wood materials and neutral colors. A vintage look brings comfort, with aged furnishings creating a reassuring ambiance and serving as a reminder that imperfections are acceptable.

YEAR OF DOG

Image courtesy of: bialasiewicz

Birth years: 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030

Personality: Individuals born in the year of the dog epitomize loyalty, placing utmost importance on friendships and family within the context of their values.

Décor Style: For those with the year of the dog as their birth year, an ideal home environment is characterized by a contemporary interior style, blending sleek design and clean lines for a sophisticated home that suits both get-togethers and their need for order.

YEAR OF PIG

Image courtesy of: bialasiewicz

Birth years: 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031

Personality: Born in the year of the pig, individuals naturally appreciate life’s finer aspects without prioritizing material luxury. Easygoing and independent, Pigs can, however, easily feel stressed about life.

Décor Style: They find utmost comfort in designs that are crafted with quality materials, and adorned with a hint of glamorous metallic elements that exude elegance. For a calming haven, they can opt for a classic minimalist home with subdued colors, natural light, and well-organized spaces that perfectly suit the magnanimous nature of Pigs.

The post Discover Your Ideal Decor Style Through Chinese Astrology first appeared on Yanko Design.

Rediscovering the Ritual of Chinese Tea Culture with The Origin Health Pot

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In the vast landscape of health pots, where countless shapes and varieties abound, it takes something truly special to stand out. In China, health pots have gained immense popularity due to their beneficial properties. However, in the sea of existing options, the ORIGIN Health Pot sets itself apart by drawing inspiration from an ancient Chinese tea culture.

Tea culture has always held a significant place in Chinese society, embodying a sense of tradition, elegance, and tranquility. The act of drinking tea transcends a mere beverage; it becomes a ritualized experience, an artistic journey that allows individuals to immerse themselves in a state of calm and selflessness. It is in this cultural tapestry that the ORIGIN Health Pot finds its origin.

Designer: RITE 

ORIGIN seeks to explore the mysterious depths of Chinese tea culture and translate its essence into a tangible product. The pot’s design encapsulates the rhythm and lines of traditional Chinese tea sets, encapsulating the mellow and gentle spirit of tea tasting within its form. By infusing the ritualistic elements of Chinese tea drinking, the ORIGIN Health Pot provides a unique and enriching experience for tea enthusiasts.

At the core of the ORIGIN Health Pot is its dedication to restoring the ritual sense of Chinese tea culture. The pot’s design meticulously incorporates the principles and aesthetics of tea ceremonies, allowing users to indulge in the beauty of rules and traditions. With every sip, one can revel in the tranquility and profound satisfaction that comes from embracing the spirit of Chinese tea culture.

Practicality is another key aspect of the Pot. The pot features a detachable split tea tray, providing convenience for tea drinking in compact spaces or on the go. This innovative feature ensures that the Pot seamlessly fits into various lifestyles while maintaining its commitment to preserving the essence of Chinese tea culture.

The ORIGIN Health Pot is available in two stunning variations: pearl white and matte black. Both options exude elegance and sophistication, mirroring the beauty found in Chinese culture. The pot’s design is carefully crafted to harmoniously blend the beauty of the product itself with the beauty of rules, resulting in a visually stunning and spiritually fulfilling experience.

In a market saturated with health pots, the ORIGIN Health Pot emerges as a beacon of authenticity and reverence for Chinese tea culture. By reintroducing the ritualized aspects of tea drinking into the modern world, it invites individuals to slow down, savor the moment, and find solace in the simple act of enjoying a cup of tea.

So, if you’re someone who appreciates the artistry and tranquility of Chinese tea culture, the ORIGIN Health Pot is a must-have. Indulge in the beauty of tradition, experience the exquisite harmony of lines and rhythms, and embark on a journey that celebrates the timeless allure of tea. The ORIGIN Health Pot invites you to rediscover the origins of Chinese tea culture and find serenity in each and every sip.

The post Rediscovering the Ritual of Chinese Tea Culture with The Origin Health Pot first appeared on Yanko Design.

Completely absurd patent by Vivo shows a smartphone with its own built-in tiny drone camera

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What will they think of next? A smartphone that can 3D print?? (Okay scratch that, that would actually be pretty awesome)

Just last week (Friday to be specific), LetsGoDigital uncovered this rather outrageous patent filed by Chinese phone manufacturer Vivo at the World Intellectual Property Office (WIPO) showcasing a phone with its own drone camera. Sort of like how Marvel superhero Falcon had his own flying sidekick ‘Redwing’, Vivo’s phone had its own mini-drone that could pop out on command and click photos at you from any vantage point.

Sliding cameras on smartphones aren’t new, although Vivo’s concept takes it a couple of notches ahead. The patent shows a phone with a massive pop-out tray on the front. Within it, sits a tiny drone (sort of like the Air Selfie Drone from AirPix but smaller) with four propellers and a bunch of cameras and sensors. Fire your camera app and the tray instantly pops out and the drone takes off. A front-facing camera on the drone’s body lets you click photos (either of yourself or of landscapes) from a variety of vantage points, going above and beyond what your smartphone camera and your outstretched hand can do. Given how small drones, it isn’t entirely an idea I can actually dismiss… although what would Vivo’s marketing team call it? A Dronephone? A Smartdrone? A Phdrone?!

Practicality aside, the tech isn’t too far-fetched. The drone fits right into the phone’s slightly thick body, and comes with dual portrait-mode cameras on the top (that directly face you when the tray pops out), a main camera on the front (that works as the drone’s eyes), and IR sensors on the left and right that help the drone detect and avoid objects. The presence of cameras on the drone mean Vivo’s smartphone doesn’t need any cameras at all. This means no front-facing camera and a clean notch-less hole-punch-less display, as well as no massive camera bump on the back. The smartphone is a complete monolith of glass, metal, and screen, punctuated by a charging port and a set of buttons. The drone tray sits flush against the phone when closed, and pops up only when you fire up the camera app. (I’m assuming the app has drone controllers built in too)

Now let’s argue practicality from both sides of the argument. There’s a fair amount of evidence to say that this is a terrible idea. Moving components on a smartphone are historically the first to fail – Dust gets stuck in it, components wear out, parts accidentally break. The presence of a drone would mean saying goodbye to water-resistance, and there’s also a high chance your drone can get lost or stolen, leaving you with absolutely no camera (that’s if Vivo implements something exactly like this). Not to mention the fact that it practically means the end of privacy as we know it. (Imagine hundreds and thousands of drones flying around in every public space, or worse, or a drone entering a private space).

That being said, drone photography is truly the final frontier in consumer photography. The smartphone camera is already comparable to a DSLR, so now imagine being able to point that camera from any vantage point. You could take distant selfies without selfie sticks, sunsets from inside your house, and get better photos at concerts. It’s safe to assume that the drone would have a rather small battery (given its size), but one could easily make the argument that the drone could also wirelessly charge while docked inside the phone). As far as safety and privacy go, companies could build safeguards and throttles into the drone, preventing it from flying too far from its smartphone. There’s a lot to discuss and unpack here, although at the end of the day, fair reminder – this is just a patent and it’s likely that we won’t see anything like this for at least a couple of years. It’s fun to dream though…

Designer/Visualizer: Sarang Sheth for LetsGoDigital

This concept was first published on LetsGoDigital. Click here to view the original piece.

US charges two Chinese hackers with trying to steal COVID-19 research

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Today, the US Justice Department charged two Chinese hackers with targeting US COVID-19 research. The charges were part of an 11-count indictment that alleges the two individuals conducted a global hacking campaign that went on for more than 10 years...

The Delft Stool and Table’s design has an unlikely source of inspiration – Oriental Pottery

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Look at the Delft Stool and Table and its source of inspiration becomes immediately clear. Influenced by the world of pottery, the Delft Stool and Table look like artifacts from the Ming dynasty, with a ceramic top and three legs supporting the stool and table’s unusually pretty design. It’s surely unusual for furniture to be made from a material as ceramic, but I wouldn’t put it past designer Jaro Kose, who’s used to designing products with extremely distinct sources of inspiration. The result is almost always a design that stops you, makes you think, and then puts you in a state of awe!

The intricate and detailed design of Oriental crockery can often add a culturally artifactual appeal to a kitchen. The Delft takes that appeal and amplifies it in a way that immediately makes the stool and table appear as modern-day relics. They even come with the indigo artwork that so distinctly belongs to the world of Chinese pottery that you tend to question the design as your mind makes that association – but after it does, you just can’t stop admiring the furniture’s strong heritage!

Designer: Jaro Kose

China reportedly spread COVID-19 misinformation

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A report by The New York Times claims Chinese operatives helped spread false COVID-19 information via text and social media across the US. According to US intelligence officials, the Chinese operatives amplified disinformation about a national lockdo...

This no-screws Dougong Table assembles like Lego and looks like art

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Alright, who is ready for a table that looks like art and does not come with a frustrating IKEA assembly guide? Because Boston-based designer Mian Wei has created this beautiful piece of furniture that marries minimal aesthetic with cultural heritage. The Dougong blocks from ancient Chinese architecture play a central role in the build and concept of the grid table – think of it as an advanced Lego challenge! Mian Wei won the Silver A’Design Award for this grid table in the homeware and furniture category, showcasing his exceptional skills as a multimedia artist who brings to life ideas that blend industrial design and emotions seamlessly.

This is a no screws assembly – yes – there is no need to keep a track of the different screw sizes and the tiny anvil! The grid table relies on the ages-old Dougong method of interlocking blocks so effectively that it not only distributes weight evenly but also lays a strong foundation while experiencing history. The supporting structure (Dougong) is made of modular parts that can be easily disassembled and reassembled in need of storage and moving. The bracket connectors (Gong) slide easily into the beams (Dou) to form the weight-bearing structure and retain structural integrity when the table is being lifted. It is made of ash, maple, and plywood which brings tone and texture ‘to the table’ (I just had to take that opportunity!).

“This project, on the one hand, tries to go back to the root to reinvestigate the practicality and scalability and bring new life to the ancient tradition. On the other hand, the project seeks to explore new aesthetic possibilities of the structure with modern forms and production techniques” says Mian Wei. The grid table gives form to the visual of wisdom and can be a stand-alone accent piece in the room (while also holding your tea and books!) without being too bold. The table is minimal yet so intricate in what can only be described as ‘engineered art’. As the owner builds the table, the complexity fades away, and the sensible nature reveals itself – the complete opposite of what I have ever felt while assembling the simplest chest of drawers in my home.

Designer: Mian Wei

Tencent adds age-based playtime limits to ‘League of Legends’ in China

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In the face of pressure from the Chinese government, Tencent and Riot Games have added age-based time limits to League of Legends in China, Polygon reports. Minors now get booted from the game after two hours of play, and the companies use China's na...

The Mini Tea Set is a combination of culture and compact design

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Quite wonderfully balancing the need to remain traditional and authentic as well as be modern and space-saving, the Mini Tea Set from Pertouch fits a tea brewing set into its small form factor, with quaint, authentic vessels that allow you to brew tea in keeping with oriental culture and norms. The casing comes with 2 kettles and 4 sipping glasses stacked-on/nestled-within one another in a shock-proof case that carries them snugly, protecting them from breakage. The case comes with a decorative lid that serves as a tray too, allowing you to brew, present, and serve your tea with flair.

Its design also comes backed by a great deal of design thinking. The kettles come without any handles (that would otherwise occupy space) and instead opt for a dual-walled construction near where your fingers would grip it, for effective insulation and heat-prevention. The cups and kettles are all made from ceramic, while the tray is made from ABS, giving it impact-resistance and resistance to high temperatures. Moreover, the ridges on it, aside from providing a calming effect of resembling ripples, act as drainage outlets for any water/tea that may accidentally spill on the tray. The design details are tied together wonderfully with cultural sensitivity, to create a tea set that looks authentic, but is, in fact, incredibly well designed!

The T1 Mini Tea Set is a winner of the Design Intelligence Awards for the year 2018.

Designer: Pertouch

US government warns China may have access to drone data

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Today, the Department of Homeland Security issued an alert warning that Chinese-made drones may be sending flight information back to their manufacturers, who could share it with third parties. According to CNN, the alert warns companies and organiza...