While it would be nice to always have fresh flowers adorn your homes, there are several reasons why not all of us can have that. It can either be too expensive to constantly have to replace them or if you’re like me, you have a black thumb and they may not last that long. An alternative to this would be to have artificial or plastic ones but wouldn’t it be more fun if you could “build” your own?
Designer: LEGO®
This is what LEGO® has discovered with the success of their hugely popular Botanicals collection. It’s not kids and geeks who have fun with all these builds but even those who believe plants and flowers are relaxing. It’s so popular that it now has its own logo and specific theme. For next year’s collection, they are adding four new sets: the LEGO® Botanicals Pretty Pink Flower Bouquet, the LEGO® Botanicals Mini Orchid, the LEGO® Botanicals Lucky Bamboo and LEGO® Botanicals Flower Arrangement. They will be available for pre-orders at the very start of 2025.
The LEGO® Botanicals Pretty Pink Flower Bouquet includes 15 flower stems and foliage including some of the most popular pink flowers like daisies, roses, cymbidium orchids, waterlily dahlia, etc. The stems are adjustable and this set can be combined with other bouquets. The LEGO® Botanicals Mini Orchid meanwhile features five orchid flowers that are in bloom and some that are still buds. it also has a terracotta flowerpot on a wood-effect plinth so you can display it beautifully.
The LEGO® Botanicals Lucky Bamboo is for those that find it relaxing to have a bamboo plant in the room but can’t keep an actual one. This includes three green bamboo stems, pebbles, a plant pot, and a wood-effect plinth. Lastly, the LEGO® Botanicals Flower Arrangement has several flowers in the set including camellia, peonies, hydrangeas, baby’s breath, ranunculus, bouvardia and lilies. This is the ultimate collection for those who want to explore their inner florist without wasting actual flowers.
While I will most likely not be going camping anytime soon, there are a lot of people who enjoy this kind of thing. There are also a lot of campers or outdoor enthusiasts who like to enjoy having a cup of coffee once they have pitched their tents or reached their mountainous destination. Sure they can just bring a flask or heat water for their instant coffee but wouldn’t you rather “brew” your own coffee when you’re marveling at nature?
This product concept is called Moka-mp and based on that name, you kind of already know what it is. It is a portable moka coffee pot that is light enough but still durable enough that you can bring it with you when you’re climbing a mountain or spending the night camping outdoors. It’s meant to help you enjoy your time with nature while still drinking a cup of brewed coffee.
The moka pot doesn’t look like your usual stovetop coffee brewer. If you didn’t know that it brews your coffee, you might think it’s just a regular portable cooking pot, albeit smaller. The bottom part holds the water while just above it is a safety valve and the space where you put your coffee powder and where the coffee magic happens.
This can become an essential part of your camping and outdoor gear if it becomes an actual product eventually. Those who love both coffee and the outdoors will have a good time as they sip their (hopefully) delicious cup while enjoying the wonders of nature. However, I’d stick to my cup of coffee in an air-conditioned coffee shop, thank you very much.
AI can almost be found everywhere these days, but most people will probably be familiar with generative AI like ChatGPT. These are mostly encountered in computers and phones because that’s where they make the most sense, but their applications can definitely go beyond that limited scope. These conversational AI can, for example, be embedded anywhere that has a computer, a microphone, and a speaker, which can literally be any object you can imagine.
Yes, it might result in an odd combination that challenges your notions of what AI chatbots can do for you. This smart tea set concept, for example, is a rather intriguing example of this idea, weaving technology, tea-drinking rituals, and social bonds in an unexpected way.
ChatGPT and others like it have started to approach the so-called “uncanny valley” in a totally non-visual way. The responses they give sound or read so naturally that it really takes an expert to distinguish it from human output. Talking to these chatbots almost feels like talking to someone, perhaps a friend who is willing to hear how your day went.
That’s the kind of experience that gpTea, a play on the brewed drink and this type of generative AI, wants to bring in a rather novel way. As a smart tea set, it not only brews tea but even tips the kettle forward to automatically pour the drink into a specially designed cup. Impressive as that may seem, that’s not even its most notable feat.
gpTea’s key feature is actually in interactive storytelling that weaves the responses of friends and family separated by distance and connected only through the Internet using this smart tea set. It asks you how your day went and, depending on your response, it might share a similar story given by another friend or loved one in the past. The more people use it, the bigger and longer the narrative grows. It’s almost like developing an oral tradition or history, except one that’s stored in the memory of an AI.
Another interesting feature of gpTea is the glass cup itself, which has a circular display at the bottom. The AI also generates images related to the story it’s telling, making it feel like you’re using magic to see the scene inside the cup. Admittedly, it’s a rather convoluted and complex way of sharing stories with friends when you can just talk to each other, but it’s still an interesting application of AI that actually tries to build connections between humans who are physically far apart.
One of the things I make sure when I go out of the house is that I have a book with me, in case of “reading emergencies”. Most of the time though I just stick it inside my bag since my bag is usually big enough to hold multitudes. But for those who don’t usually carry bags big enough to hold a book or two, an alternative to just carrying around that book should be available.
Designers: MAEKAN x DSPTCH
The MAEKAN x DSPTCH Book Strap is that option for those who still want to carry around books or those who want their reading material to be on display. It is big, or rather, long enough to hold things like books, magazines, and even tablets and laptops. It is one way to “show off” that you still read printed media or at least carry them around in case you need to read one.
The book strap is made from a herringbone seatbelt webbing that is around 1″ long and mil-spec webbing. The elastic horizontal strap can be stretched to accommodate whatever it is that you’ll be carrying while the two vertical straps are adjustable. You can place the items in it and then adjust to secure. It is able to carry items between 8 and 16 inches. It is an exposed strap design so you have to make sure that you secure the items by adjusting according to what you’ll place “inside”. But you can also use it for a book bag that doesn’t have straps, in case you don’t want it to be that exposed.
As someone who has a lot of small things inside my bag along with books and my gadgets, the original design for this will definitely not work for me. I might also be paranoid that something will fall out although it seems like it’s designed for that not to happen. But it will definitely appeal to a certain segment of the reading market.
While I have a lot of mugs at home, most of them are just your normal liquid vessel. They just differ in color and the design printed on the cup itself, but otherwise they’re just your typical mugs. But I’m always open to adding more to my collection if I see a design that is pretty eye-catching. Whether I actually use it or not sometimes depends on my mood though.
If this concept for a mug for a conceptual chocolate brand gets made, it’s something worth adding to my collection. The Horeca mug is a concept for Xocoyo, a brand that doesn’t actually exist but can possibly in the future. It draws heavily from Aztec architecture since the fictional brand also draws inspiration from that ancient civilization. You would think that steep staircases and ancient design would not have anything to do with a coffee or hot chocolate mug, but they were able to incorporate it.
The matte dark ceramic brings back the feel of the earthenware vessels from the Aztecs. The mug itself has geometric shapes from their architecture including the stairs-like bottom part and an angular-shaped handle. The wooden base complements the “steps” and adds a more organic look to the entire product. The name of the brand is etched into the mug.
This kind of design blends storytelling and functionality into what is usually a utilitarian object. But if you can sip your hot liquid of choice from such a mug or even if you just have it on display, wouldn’t you want to add something uniquely designed to your collection?
How about a fancy cabin bag that appears to be moving when you are standing for your boarding pass or awaiting your boarding call in the lounge? All sorts of suitcases make an appearance these days. Some are modular, some reminiscent of the icons, and some throw in an optical illusion to put fun to your airport look and those timeless halts. And for the latter, we are sold!
Designed and developed by Germany-based RIMOWA using high-end anodized aluminum, the suitcase is a fancy variant of the company’s original carry-on. Aptly dubbed Original Cabin Optical, this suitcase in RIMOWA’s words “redefines boundaries.” This is done by “creating” an “illusion of the iconic groves disappearing.”
In simpler words, the famous RIMOWA suitcase is made with a shimmering effect achieved by a brushing technique that gives the suitcase the illusion of movement. The Cabin Optical’s anodized aluminum exterior has an alternating brushed finish to create this illusion: so, when you are at the airport or in the hotel lobby, people could mistake your suitcase to be moving even when it’s standing beside you.
Such illusion happens because of these specially brushed groves that with the change in light and perspective create the illusion of movement. This interesting optical motif is not only limited to the exterior, interestingly RIMOWA carries it to the inside of its limited-edition Cabin Optical. Here the jacquard lining is directly woven with geometric patterns for a similar effect.
The Cabin Optical is available in 35 litter carry-on sized dimensions making it – according to the company – apt for three to four days of travel. The suitcase itself is pretty lightweight, weighing only 9.5lbs, and comes with a stage-free telescoping handle, RIMOWA’s Multiwheel system with cushioned axles, and Flex Divider.
It is strictly limited-edition of just 2,002 examples. The number is only chosen for its palindromic nature and has no relevance to the year, which I earlier thought to be the case. Currently available for pre-order, with sales beginning November 7, the special silver Cabin Optical will set you back $2,050. If you are not ready to shell that kind of money, you can pick the suitcase in your choice of silver, emerald green, black and titanium for $1,430.
In the world of diverse architectural styles available today, some homebuyers are fascinated by unique trends like repurposing shipping containers into residential spaces. Shipping container homes are gaining popularity for their affordability and sustainability. This innovative approach appeals to those seeking homes that match their functional needs, style preferences, and budget constraints. With the right tools and guidance, one can construct a shipping container home but before starting the project it is important to research the building codes, regulations, and permits required for such construction.
One must collaborate with architects and engineers to validate the structural integrity of the container house floor plan. However, before the construction begins, it is important to connect with professionals experienced in container construction to navigate its unique challenges and determine the number of containers needed based on the size and layout of the proposed house. Here is a step-by-step guide to get you going.
1. Purchase the Container. After obtaining the necessary building permissions, one can proceed to acquire the shipping containers, choosing the size based on your floor plans. Typically, containers are around 40 feet long and 8 feet wide, ideal for accommodating one bedroom, one bathroom, and a generous kitchen with a living area.
2. Prepare the Site. Before beginning construction, ensure the building site is secure for a stable foundation. Clear debris, and confirm level ground resistance to flooding. The foundation type should be based on the existing ground conditions. Level uneven ground with a shovel and lay the foundation using high-quality materials like concrete or metal girders Steel plates should be used for direct welding to the foundation.
3. Install the Containers. After completing the foundation, the process of installing the shipping containers begins. The most efficient methods for placing containers on the foundation involve a crane or delivery truck, offering ease, speed, and safety. If there is more than one container then join the containers either by welding or using a specialized joining system. Ensure secure connections without gaps if welding, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation with a joining system.
4. Build the Roof. After positioning and connecting the containers, proceed to construct the roof. Opt for either traditional roofing materials or a metal roofing system, ensuring resilience to weather conditions.
5. Complete the Interiors. The last step includes the installation of the shipping container home with doors, windows, and flooring, using steel studs for framing and ensuring a thermal break to prevent heat transfer. Plan for wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems, and consider solar panels for electricity. Insulate the interior or exterior, and customize the surroundings with decking and landscaping.
What are the advantages of living in container homes?
• Affordable: Container homes offer greater affordability when compared to traditional homes due to their utilization of recycled materials and reduced labor costs.
Cargo, a tiny home by Madeiguincho in Portugal, creatively repurposes a standard shipping container into an inviting dwelling. Featuring a rooftop terrace and efficient interior layout, this wooden-finished abode offers insulation, operable windows, and a minimalist aesthetic. With a compact kitchen, cozy seating area, and small bathroom, Cargo provides all the essentials for simple living, making it an ideal short-term rental in the picturesque Algarve region.
• Efficiency: Container homes can be installed and erected with remarkable speed as constructing a traditional home takes more than a year but container homes can be constructed within a few months.
Located amidst a former paddy field in Thailand, the Container Cabin is a unique retreat crafted from stacked shipping containers. Architect Tung Jai Ork Baab’s innovative design, part of the OOST Campville project, offers a serene getaway in Nakhon Nayok province. With an A-frame roof and steel plate louvres, the cabin blends modern aesthetics with natural surroundings. Prefabricated containers provide ease of assembly, while a small reservoir elevates the cabin to mitigate flooding risks. The interior features minimalist white tones and repurposed container doors for privacy. Offering ample space for relaxation, the cabin includes bedrooms, living areas, and a pool overlooking the deck.
• Highly Durable: Container homes are quite durable as they are constructed from steel and exhibit high resilience against harsh weather conditions.
Tucked away on the expansive Desert Rose Ranch in Texas, this Airbnb shipping container home offers a cozy retreat between Fredericksburg and Austin. Featuring a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette, its standout feature is the rooftop deck with a hot tub and hammock. Designed by Bob’s Containers, this 40-foot x 8-foot container boasts a garage-style door for natural light and modern amenities inside. The rooftop terrace, accessed by a spiral staircase, provides panoramic views and a serene escape. Surrounded by nature, the cabin also offers a front yard fireplace for cozy evenings. With its compact size, it comfortably accommodates two people, making it an ideal getaway for couples or solo travelers seeking tranquility in the Texas wilderness.
• Sustainable: Container homes are eco-friendly as they are constructed from recycled materials.
This cozy woodland cabin, crafted from a repurposed shipping container, embodies modern architecture’s adaptability. Named Shiship Cabin by Repère Boréal, it’s nestled in Quebec, Canada, offering a contemporary take on wilderness living. Measuring 31 feet by 8 feet, it integrates custom space-saving furniture and smart features. Clad in cedar wood planks, its exterior exudes both durability and natural charm. Inside, an open-concept layout integrates kitchen, bed, bathroom, and living areas seamlessly.
What are the disadvantages of living in container homes?
• Climate Control: During summer, container homes lack insulation, causing them to heat up, and in winter, they conduct heat and become excessively cold. Temperature differences between the inside and outside cause condensation on steel walls, leading to mold growth and poorer air quality.
• Susceptible to Corrosion: Despite being manufactured for marine conditions; containers are prone to rust and corrosion. Despite protective coatings, they remain susceptible to rust, particularly in coastal areas due to the salt-laden air.
This shipping container has been transformed into a seaside retreat! Located by the Tbilisi Sea in Georgia, this MUA cabin serves as a rejuvenating space where design meets functionality. Measuring 40 feet in length, the cabin features a linear layout with rest areas, bathrooms, and storage at the ends, while the middle section houses a kitchen, work desk, and living room. Large sliding doors seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, providing a panoramic sea view.
• Structural Challenges: Converting shipping containers into living spaces often requires modifications that compromise their structural integrity, like cutting openings for doors and windows, necessitating additional supports such as steel beams or wooden framing.
Estúdio Lapinha, a vibrant tiny home in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, creatively combines two unused shipping containers, designed by Plano Livre. This modular marvel features one container for infrastructure and the other for living space, boasting colorful interiors and exteriors painted in subtle lime green. Inside, the bright walls, tiled floors, and natural wooden accents create a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by steel shelving units for storage. Expansive French doors and a matching green ceiling seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living.
• Poor Acoustics: The steel construction of container homes can amplify internal and external noises, particularly in noisy urban settings, necessitating effective but costly sound insulation like dense foam or specialized panels, which can reduce interior space.
While building a shipping container home can be manageable and efficient, providing a sustainable, budget-friendly housing option, it’s crucial to consider the pros and cons to determine if living in container homes is suitable for you.
There is a great deal of interest in mindfulness practices that almost borders on obsession, so it’s no surprise that there are just as many apps advertising the perfect solution. Even something like playing calming music has dozens of smartphone apps for it. It’s a handy feature that you can take with you and use anywhere, but it also carries the risk of temptations and distractions.
A dedicated meditation device can take away those pitfalls, especially if it comes in a form that inspires a more relaxed state. Even better if it has a simple interaction model that takes away any ambiguity or complexity, like this speaker concept that uses a simple method of placing artful photo cards to play matching relaxing music.
Having a dedicated speaker just for playing calming, meditative music might sound overkill, but it has plenty of perks when it comes to putting you in a more relaxed state of mind. In theory, these would be designed with a specific use case in mind and won’t burden the user with unrelated features and controls. It would also adopt an aesthetic that inspires relaxation and meditation, rather than trying to appeal to fashion or outdoor use.
miinfm, for example, combines two shapes immediately associated with meditation – a bowl used in some Asian cultures, as well as the smooth slopes of a Zen landscape. Other than three embossed controls in front, there are no other details that would distract your eyes. In form alone, the speaker already has a minimalist visual that leads the mind into a deeper state of thinking.
The more interesting aspect of this design concept, however, is the way it selects which music to play. Rather than having you choose from a list from a display or from your phone, the speaker makes use of physical cards for that purpose. These cards look like instant camera photos with artistic imagery, and you simply insert the card in the “valley” between the mountain peaks where an infrared scanner is hidden to identify the card.
The exact implementation detail for this simple yet creative mechanism is left to speculation, but it is definitely not impossible to pull off. Although it does require some physical action by the user rather than an automated process, it actually enhances the experience by creating a ritual to prepare both your body and your mind. Light a candle or incense, slip in a meditation card, and relax to the calming tunes from this aesthetic speaker.
Anyone who’s ever been on TikTok knows that there are a lot of weird rumors that start on the platform and not all of them are good for the brain. But one of the more interesting and harmless ones that trended lately is the idea that the sound of rainfall that helps people sleep is actually the sound of cooking fried chicken. Out of this funny trend comes an unexpected collaboration.
Designer: Hatch for KFC
Hatch, a sleep wellness company, has partnered with probably the most popular fried chicken brand, KFC, to come up with new content that you can sleep to. Based on their “investigation” conducted at the KFC headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky, they have come up with 20 minutes of audio which you cannot distinguish if it’s frying chicken or falling rain. There’s a funny, behind-the-scenes video of a Hatch investigator recording the KFC guy deep frying chicken to prove that it is the same sound as falling rain.
The brand partnership content is actually to promote KFC’s new Original Recipe® Tenders. The recorded sound is apparently them frying these tenders and now people can drift off to sleep and maybe dream of eating chicken while they’re at it. The sound is available in Hatch’s Restore 2 smart sleep device if you have a Hatch+ premium content subscription. But you can also find it on both Hatch’s and KFC’s YouTube channels and the Hatch for Sleep Spotify page.
And if you’re really into this thing, there’s even a limited-edition Hatch X KFC Sleep Shirt with “Fell asleep to fried chicken” on it that you can buy at KFC’s online store. Too bad though, you still won’t get the secret recipe of 11 herbs and spices even if you fall asleep to the sound of frying chicken.
Modern life is full of hustle and bustle, and it can be difficult to find a moment of peace. In such a world, it is important to create a calming and serene atmosphere at home. Music is an excellent and powerful tool to soothe your mind and jazz up your mood. If you’re looking to enjoy some tranquil melodies at home or enhance your home’s ambiance, these five products are the solutions you need. They will enrich your daily routine and life with their gentle sounds, or your favorite tunes.
They will fill your living space with delightful tunes and soothing melodies, while also doubling up as stylish additions to your home decor, thanks to their artistic designs and unique features. Whether you’re revisiting the charm of CDs or welcoming guests with tranquil door chimes these products offer a harmonious blend of sound and style.
1. Portable CD Cover Player
Say hello to the Portable CD Cover Player! Imagine combining the nostalgia and beauty of retro design with a modern appreciation for visual art, and you have the Portable CD Cover Player. It is a minimalist and portable device designed to take you back to the golden age of CDs while keeping in touch with the present.
The Portable CD Cover Player doesn’t simply offer a satisfying auditory experience, but also a great visual one. It is amped with a sleek design, and thoughtful functionality, which converts the simple act of playing music into an artful and tasteful visual display, adding an element of functional elegance to your home.
The Portable CD Cover Player serves as a charming and alluring nod to the past. It provides a tangible connection to your favorite songs by allowing you to insert the CD jacket or sleeve into a specially designed pocket. This offers a physical counterpart to the digital album art, allowing you to showcase your prized music collection.
Besides delivering high-quality sound, the CD Cover Player also elevates your home with its classic and nostalgic aesthetic appeal, making it the center of attention in any room, and also a massive conversation starter. It is the perfect mix of the past and the present.
What we like
Equipped with a 40mm full-range speaker and woofer unit, which provides a rich and immersive audio experience
The powerful battery delivers 7-8 hours of uninterrupted playback, ensuring your music sessions are never cut short abruptly
What we dislike
It is limited to analog music, and cannot be synced with digital mediums
2. Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers
You can now step into the future of audio innovation with the Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers. It offers a novel and revolutionary take on the traditional smartphone speaker. It provides a unique blend of portability and sustainability, which reduces the need for a power source while offering an impressive auditory experience.
The speaker is made from a durable metal, which sets it apart not only for its functionality but also for its elegant and minimalist design. This makes the speaker a valuable and noteworthy addition to any tech-savvy household.
The Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers are made from Duralumin – a high-strength aluminum alloy that is known for its use in the aviation and aerospace industries. This material is pretty durable but also improves the speaker’s ability to resist vibration, which provides a pure and unaltered sound quality.
You need to simply place your smartphone into the speaker’s dock, and it fills the entire room with a sound that will completely envelop you. It creates an excellent immersive listening experience without the need for batteries or any electricity. It is also quite portable to carry around.
What we like
Eco-friendly and power-free design that reduces your carbon footprint
Features a sleek and streamlined aesthetic, which merges well with any decor
What we dislike
The speaker is compatible with most smartphones, but may not be compatible with devices encased in bulky covers or cases
3. Door Chime Tori
Called The Door Chime Tori, this little design isn’t your conventional and typical door accessory. Named after the Japanese word for ‘bird’, this nifty chime brings a touch of nature to your home owing to its cute bird-like shape and metallic tail feathers. The chime’s gentle movement creates tranquil and charming chirps, which will remind you of birds in their natural habitat.
This chime will make a delightful and amusing addition to your entryway, and it will allow some soothing and charming sounds to envelop your home. It helps to create an ambiance that is calm, melodic, and pleasant, allowing your home to feel like a haven.
The Door Chime Tori converts the ordinary door chime into a sensory and artful experience. It features a design that is minimal yet colorful, functioning as a charming and visually pleasing decor accent. At the same time, it creates soothing sounds to form a welcoming atmosphere.
The chime’s body is made from die-cast zinc which offers durability, and it features magnetic attachment which lets it easily get installed onto any ferrous metal surface. This isn’t the kind of door chime you hide away, but allow it to take centerplace on your door.
What we like
Produces soothing bird-like sounds
An elegant and colorful accent that elevates your door decor
What we dislike
It is limited to ferrous metal surfaces for mounting
4. CD Jacket Player
Meet the CD Jacket Player, another wonderful product that gives you a dose of nostalgia. This audio device merges nostalgia with contemporary design, transforming the traditional CD player into a minimal and classy piece of art. It features a boxy form, which will remind you of a picture frame or an oversized Polaroid photo.
The CD Jacket Player includes a transparent middle section that boasts the CD’s spinning bed. This unique design not only brings back the physical experience of album art but also serves as a sophisticated and tasteful decorative piece for your walls.
What makes the CD Jacket Player unique is that it combines the tactile and visual aspects of music listening and appreciation. It encourages users to manually insert cover jackets, which creates an interactive experience, and brings back the charm of physical albums in a digital age.
Its built-in rechargeable battery makes it pretty portable, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite CDs without the hassle of wires. The player supports both wired and wireless audio output, making it versatile for any listening preference.
What we like
The player supports both wired and Bluetooth audio output
It features a minimal and charming design that also doubles up as a home accent
What we dislike
It involves the manual insertion of cover jackets, which may not be convenient for all users
5. Door Chime Bo
Say hello to the Door Chime Bo – a Japanese-inspired chime, that is named after the Danish word for ‘live’ or ‘reside’. The door chime adopts an innovative approach to sound and style, forming a subtle yet unique experience. It is equipped with small metal bars that seem to float in front of your door, owing to its minimal base.
The sound created by the Door Chime Bo isn’t just pleasing to your ears, but also your mind. It can create a soothing environment. The chime has a streamlined and clean look, with no strings getting in the way, and no chime looking untidy or out of place.
Since the chime eliminates the clutter caused by strings and out-of-place chimes, it features an innovative design that is unlike most door chimes we see in the market. It features a strong neodymium magnet that supports easy installation onto any ferrous metal surface, ensuring it is compatible with various door types.
The sounds created by the chime are gentle and soothing, providing a pleasant auditory and sensory experience, that perfectly pairs up with the elegant and minimal aesthetics.
What we like
It delivers a subtle and pleasing sound
It features a strong neodymium magnet which makes it easy to install
What we dislike
The sound made by the chime may be too soft and subtle for some people
