Space is always at a premium, whether it’s in the bedroom, the living room, or the kitchen. Maximizing space is a challenge, which is why multifunctional designs are in high demand. Furniture that can transform to do different things in different situations or appliances that can serve different needs help not only save space but sometimes even money in the long run.
Unfortunately, multifunctional designs also tend to be complex and confusing due to cramming many features into a single product or system. Of course, it’s always possible to create minimalist multifunctional designs with some careful thinking, and this concept for a smart cooker system puts that theory to the test.
Our kitchens are becoming smarter every year as refrigerators, ovens, and even hubs gain some intelligence and Internet connectivity. These large appliances are more or less permanently installed in place, so the space they take up is not really a problem. Stoves and cookware, however, are a different question, especially given how many pots and pans we tend to use.
The ODS Smart Cooker concept tries to reduce some of that wasted space by combining a few simple objects into one. The base of the system is an induction stove with a very minimalist aesthetic. A simple intuitive dial controls the temperature, while a touch-sensitive surface switches between different modes.
The more interesting part, however, is the pot itself. It looks very simple with a matching simple cover. That said, that cover also functions as a stovetop grille. When not needed, these two cookwares can occupy the same spot, saving space. You also don’t need a separate cover for the pot, but it also means that you can’t use the grille and the pot simultaneously when you also need to cover the pot.
The handles for the cooking vessel are rather strange but not accidental. The angle of handles for the cover/grille leaves a gap where you can easily wedge in your fingers to take the cover off. Alternatively, you can probably also squeeze two handles on the same side together to lift the opposite side slightly, allowing steam to escape without risking burning your hand.
Unleash your inner adventurer with the Titanium 6-in-1 Multi-Tool, a masterpiece of engineering designed to revolutionize your everyday carry. Imagine having a tool that combines the strength of titanium with the functionality of a Swiss Army knife but with a sleek, modern twist. This multi-tool isn’t just about utility; it’s about elevating your gear game to a whole new level.
Crafted from premium-grade Grade 5 titanium, this multi-tool promises unparalleled durability and lightweight convenience. Titanium is renowned for its strength-to-weight ratio, making this tool a robust companion for any task without weighing you down. Whether you’re camping in the wilderness or tackling household repairs, this tool is designed to be by your side, ready for action.
The 6-in-1 functionality is where the magic happens. This tool seamlessly integrates an adjustable wrench, a pry bar/nail puller, a screwdriver bit holder, a ratchet mechanism, a bottle opener, and a window breaker into one compact design. Each feature is meticulously engineered to ensure you have the right tool for the job, no matter where you are. Its intuitive design allows you to switch between functions with ease, making it the perfect gadget for those who value efficiency and versatility.
A wrench is often considered an “Omnipotent Little Helper,” and this 6-in-1 multi-tool makes sure one is available to you all the time to meet any need. The rows of grooves at the opening of the wrench are like precision teeth that ensure a tight bite on any nut or bolt. A simple flick of the strategically placed roller opens or closes the wrench and can even be a stress-relieving fidget toy that’s always within reach.
The center of the tool is home to four side-by-side screwdriver heads, held firmly down using strong magnets. Easily pop one into the ratchet mechanism and you instantly have the perfect precision tool for furniture assembly or gadget repairs. Thanks to its innovative design, the ratchet mechanism allows for easy actuation and constant tightening force, saving you time and effort on those emergency tasks.
Need some down time after a hard day’s work? The pry bar and bottle opener makes short work of cans and bottles, allowing you to enjoy that much-needed refreshment. The wrench end of the tool has a handy window breaker made of tungsten steel, while the V-shaped pry bar is also useful for pulling out stubborn nails. All of these essential features are crammed in a compact size that ensures it fits comfortably in your pocket or on a keychain, so it’s always within reach.
The design of this multi-tool is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Five slots for tritium tubes add a bit of personal style while also making it easy to locate and use the tool in the dark. Its sleek look is complemented by the natural sheen of titanium, making it a stylish addition to your gear collection. The tool utilizes the CNC machining process to ensure not only manufacturing accuracy but also maintaining product quality. It’s the perfect blend of form and function, offering a tool that is as beautiful as it is practical.
Imagine the confidence of knowing you’re equipped for any situation, whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply running errands. Designed for the modern explorer who values preparedness and style, this multi-functional pry bar/wrench is more than just a tool; it’s a statement of readiness and resilience. The Titanium EDC 6-in-1 Multi-Tool is a must-have for anyone who loves the outdoors, enjoys DIY projects, or simply wants to be prepared for life’s little challenges.
Stationery remains essential, adapting to global trends like sustainability, and minimalism, and bridging the gap between digital and analog domains. With technological advancements, stationery for school and office settings is progressing towards smarter, sustainable products, transforming traditional items into symbols of productivity and creativity. This transformation underscores a fusion of innovation and timeless design, enhancing how students approach their studies and how office workers manage their tasks efficiently.
Explore the transformative trends shaping the future landscape of stationery, traditional office supplies, and educational tools.
Wood is typically associated with brown, but different tree species produce various colors. In Japan, Forest Crayons uses pigments from recycled forest trees to create crayons, mixed with wood, rice wax, and rice oil. Each color, such as the magnolia’s light green or fungus-stained wood’s deep turquoise, reflects the tree species and growth conditions. The set includes ten colors: Bayberry, Bogwood, Cedar, Chinaberry, Cypress, Hazenoki, Katsura, Kaizuka, Magnolia, and Zelkova. This project, endorsed by the Japanese Forest Agency, promotes a renewed appreciation for Japan’s forests.
Pens usually signify productivity and creativity, but the Zen Pen, a unique Japanese-made writing instrument, aims to evoke calm through its design and texture. Inspired by Zen gardens, it features 3D-printed grooves and an off-center, smooth clip, mimicking the sand and stone elements. Crafted by skilled Japanese artisans using modern 3D printing and milling, the Zen Pen provides a soothing tactile experience, promoting mindfulness and tranquility. This makes it an ideal tool for students, helping them stay focused and calm while writing and studying in a school environment.
The 25° Ruler sets new standards in precision and durability, crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum and featuring laser-engraved markings for long-lasting accuracy. Available in sizes ranging from 6 to 20 inches and various vibrant colors, its ergonomic 25° angle enhances usability by placing measurements conveniently along the bottom edge. A teardrop design ensures safety and ease of use, while dual-sided markings cater to metric and imperial units, starting from zero to ensure precise measurements.
Royi Stationery offers innovative supplies that tell stories of honesty and introspection. Their transparent staplers and hard disks prompt reflection on deeper values, inspired by timeless narratives like the tale of the naked king. These products encourage a meaningful connection with stationery tools, inviting users to see beyond surface appearances and appreciate the wisdom embedded in everyday objects.
The Sidekick Notepad blends digital efficiency with analog charm, ideal for users who embrace a digital-analog hybrid workflow. Featuring 60 tear-away pages of Munken Lynx paper and a cover made from recycled coffee cups, it includes sections for notes, to-do lists with checkboxes, and a date section. Perfect for quick note-taking during meetings or daily tasks, it offers practicality and sustainability in one compact design.
The Nuwa Pen is an AI-powered ballpoint that bridges the gap between handwritten charm and digital efficiency. This innovative pen uses a TRIDENT imaging system and AI to effortlessly convert your scribbles on any paper into searchable digital notes. With 2GB of built-in memory, rapid charging, and compatibility with the Nuwa Pen App for cloud storage, it ensures your ideas are always accessible and organized. Ideal for those who value both the tactile joy of writing and the practicality of digital tools, the Nuwa Pen redefines note-taking versatility.
Introducing the stilform FLOW: an award-winning ballpoint pen that merges elegance with innovation. Its magnetic cap retracts the refill with a satisfying click, offering a unique fidget feature. Available in aluminum, brass, or titanium, each variant boasts a sleek, durable design ideal for a luxurious writing experience. The FLOW utilizes recycled materials and is refillable, ensuring longevity while reducing environmental impact. Perfect for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and functional beauty in their everyday writing tools.
Transform your workspace with nature-inspired accessory designs that merge functionality with aesthetic appeal. The Greenery Pencil Holder mimics bamboo stems with a curved plate for storing pens and pencils. The Greenery Clock features an abstract, leaf-shaped digital display and a flat surface for small items. The Greenery Tray offers horizontal “leaves” for storage and key rings, while the Greenery Cable Holder simplifies cable management with leaf-like circles. These designs bring a touch of greenery to your desk, enhancing both organization and visual appeal.
The Bloomstick pen concept is a symbolic tool for journaling dreams comprising of a silicone-covered button that blooms like a flower when pressed, it merges functionality with a decorative touch. Available in green, blue, and pink, this pen adds a whimsical flair to your writing experience. Ideal for collectors and stationery enthusiasts alike, it transforms from a conventional pen into a visually appealing piece that inspires creativity and captures the essence of dreaming.
The Star Lord Helmet by LEGO is a functional and visually stunning addition to their Infinity Saga series. Standing 7 inches tall with 602 pieces, it faithfully recreates the iconic headgear from Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Ideal for ages 18 and up, it features intricate details like red-tinted eyepieces and lifelike breathing valves. Beyond its collectible appeal, this build serves as a practical stationery holder and pen stand, offering storage for essentials in its hollow interior.
These Seki Sound scissors are more than just tools—they’re a playful homage to iconic electric guitars. Inspired by precision craftsmanship from Seki, Japan, renowned for cutlery excellence, they feature authentic details like guitar strings and frets. Designed to cut through paper, vinyl, and tape effortlessly, they’re as sharp as they are stylish, with a protective cap that doubles as a guitar head. Perfect for adding a touch of creativity and functionality to your workspace, these scissors are a must-have for design enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
The sPINmemo lamp reimagines traditional lighting with its innovative design that combines practicality and personalization. Featuring a rotating cork body for pinning notes and photos, this lamp promotes creativity and organization while offering storage space on its ceramic head. Crafted for both functionality and aesthetic appeal, it ensures optimal illumination and blends seamlessly into any workspace or living area. Ideal for those who value minimalism and versatile home decor solutions, the sPINmemo lamp enhances both lighting and personal expression.
This innovative highlighter draws inspiration from East Asia’s train systems, featuring a modular design reminiscent of train cars. Each segment serves as a different color highlighter, allowing for easy interchangeability and reducing the need for multiple units. Its ergonomic shape and sustainable potential, including refillable cartridges, set it apart in stationery design. LINE’s creative approach not only enhances functionality but also offers a fresh and enjoyable user experience, bridging utility with a playful modular design inspired by transit systems.
The MEMORABLE picture frame integrates a sophisticated marble design with modular functionality, featuring a unique rail system. This allows users to attach various modules like a pen holder, small vase, or note holder, enhancing both organization and personalization in your workspace. Crafted for durability and aesthetic appeal, MEMORABLE blends timeless elegance with practical modular design, making it ideal for displaying cherished memories while doubling as versatile desk storage.
The stationery landscape is transforming into a vibrant blend of sustainability, innovation, and artistic expression, revolutionizing how we approach work, study, and creative assignments.
Coffee tables are the centerpieces of many living rooms, both visually and functionally. It is often an area where not only people but objects also gather, whether books, phones, or even food. That’s why it’s not unusual to see trays, boxes, and other containers on or under these tables, which may ruin the table’s charm. But what if the table had these storage spaces built into it and hidden from view until needed? That’s the genius design that this artistic Persian-inspired piece of furniture offers, turning a normal-looking coffee table into a cocktail table for social events and get-togethers.
Some coffee tables do have built-in shelves or levels used to store books, sometimes also knack-knacks and other objects. These, unfortunately, are often on display even when they’re not needed, and they’re definitely not that useful for things you need to put on top occasionally, like a bowl for fruits, an ice bucket for drinks, and the like. You can always just use any bowl or container for those purposes, but finding ones that match the design of the table could be a daunting task.
The Taarof Table solves this in a rather creative way by having those conventional “party” containers built into the table, specifically its legs. The low coffee slash cocktail table is held up by a stack of pouf-like circles that seem to extend beyond and above the tabletop. Those short cylinders, however, are where the magic happens.
Three of them have lids that reveal the secret inside them. One corner of the table has a perforated sheet of metal that serves as a pewter ashtray. Another can be used as a fruit basket or container for snacks like peanuts. Finally, one has a double-walled bucket for keeping drinks cold. It’s a simple yet effective design that offers functionality that integrates perfectly with the design of the table. You don’t have to remove them when not in use and they continue to serve as aesthetic parts of the table’s design.
Despite the glossy finish, the table is actually made from FSC-certified wood and MDF (medium-density fiberboard). It also uses zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) lacquer for that marble-like shine. Even with very simple and basic shapes, the Taarof Table adds a distinct charm to any living space while also providing functionality that doesn’t get in the way when not needed.
Air quality at home has become a key concern among homeowners in the past few years, finally raising awareness that the air we breathe indoors might be just as bad as the pollution-filed air outdoors. Pet owners have it especially bad, with fur and pet hair adding to their list of worries. While air purifiers are becoming more popular because of that situation, very few of them can be considered to have the same aesthetic maturity as more common appliances that have been around for decades. Many are not only uninspiring but also take up space that could have been otherwise given to more functional and appealing furniture. Venturing into the home appliances market, SwitchBot is launching an air purifier that looks a tad more interesting and definitely more useful thanks to its multi-functional design, doubling as a table you can also use as a phone charger.
Many air purifier take on a cylindrical shape that maximizes air intake and output, but that means putting their less than attractive bodies in the middle of spaces where they stick out like a sore thumb. The new SwitchBot Air Purifier Table admittedly does have that cannister design, but it takes steps to set itself apart from the crowd and elevate your living space as well.
In addition to its minimalist style, this air purifier puts a flat oval on top that can be used as a table to hold your things while you sit back and relax for a bit. The wood-like finish gives it a bit of visual flair and helps make it match the other furniture in your living area or bedroom. It also encourages you to put the air purifier in places that get a lot of human presence, usually beside couches or beds or maybe even in the middle of the room, allowing it to have a better impact on the quality of the air people breathe.
Its “extra” functionality doesn’t stop there, however. That tabletop is also a wireless charger, supporting 15W charging for Android devices and 7.5W for iPhones. Simply place your phone there and let it charge while you read, watch, or just chill with friends. The Air Purifier Table has configurable lighting between the air purifier itself and the tabletop, allowing you to set the mood you want or be informed when the air quality in its immediate vicinity worsens.
Of course, the SwitchBot Air Purifier Table is an air purifier, first and foremost, and it boasts plenty of street cred for that. It’s also pretty proud of its ability to remove pet hair and prevent it from contaminating the air that humans breathe, all without stressing out the pet in the process. The SwitchBot Air Purifier Table, available now for pre-order, will set you back $269.99, but there’s also a simpler $219.99 version that trades the wireless charging table top for a smaller bowl-like structure that cats might love to sit on.
While many wars have been fought over different kinds of pens and their designs, some people still prefer the simplicity and unique texture of a good, old-fashioned, wooden pencil. Unfortunately, even die-hard pencil fans will admit that their favorite writing tool can sometimes be a pain to maintain. Not only do they tend to go missing exactly when you need them, they might also be too dull by the time you do find them among the pile of other writing instruments. You waste a lot of time fumbling with tools while your muse slips away before you have a chance to write the idea down on paper. Having your tools always within reach helps cut down on time and friction, and this striking minimalist design solves that by combining two of the most essential pencil accessories in one.
The Problem: Sharpeners are Unattractive, Inefficient, Out of Reach
A pencil is one of the most basic and most timeless writing instruments known to man. It has its own distinct charm that’s exhibited both by its graphite marks as well as the design of its barrel. That said, the pencil has also inherited the one flaw of its ancestors: the need for regular sharpening. Mechanical pencils try to offer an alternative design but also sacrifice the unique personality of the wooden pencil in favor of precision and convenience.
Sharpening a pencil isn’t exactly too much work, but scrambling to find the sharpener costs too much time and tension when you need to jot something down quickly. And that’s not even considering the time you spend actually looking for your pencil in the first place, especially if your favorite is lost among half a dozen barrels. A pencil and a pencil sharpener sound like two things that should go together, but there has never been a design that puts two and two together, at least until now.
Why is this the Best Pencil Sharpener?
This Upright Pencil Sharpener solves that by putting the sharpener where the pencil is or vice versa. Shaped like a disc or puck, the singular hole in the middle serves as a stand for your beloved writing tool, ready for you to pull it out when you need it. And should the pencil’s tip finally become too dull, you know exactly where to find the sharpener. No more searching inside drawers for a small metal or plastic box, or standing up to walk toward a mounted electric sharpener.
Despite its rather simple appearance, this pencil sharpener and stand in one is a prime example of great design. The base that holds the shavings is made from anodized aluminum with a matte black finish, while the cover that keeps the shavings from flying around is made from warm-toned walnut wood. A strong magnet keeps these two pieces together, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally knocking off the cover and spilling its contents. And when you are ready to empty the container, the 6cm diameter of the base makes it easy to throw everything out.
Who is this Pencil Sharpener for?
Pencil sharpeners are technically very utilitarian products, but this one easily sets itself apart with its elegance and appeal to the discerning, design-conscious pencil lover. The striking brass mechanism inside provides additional visual contrast to the darkness of the aluminum base. The angle of the blade inside is designed for optimal sharpening to reduce waste and prolong the pencil’s life. Simple, beautiful, and multi-functional, this pencil sharpener stand helps save you time and effort while allowing you to put your favorite pencil on display for everyone to see and appreciate.
Way back in 1903 the English mathematician Henry Ernest Dudeney worked out a way to morph a perfect square into an equilateral triangle. The trick involved dissecting the square into rearrangeable four distinct shapes. This method holds merit even after more than a century of varied applications.
Fast forward to 1986, and the mathematical formula was experimented with by architect David Ben-Grunberg and his artist father Maty Grunberg to create a table. This piece of furniture dubbed DTable was a unique creation at that time since it doubled as a storage solution, seating, or a centerpiece for the living room. Furthermore, the eight different configurations from a square to a triangle shape brought an element of freshness and the freedom to put in any space with any arrangement. The individual pieces could be detached to act as stand-alone pieces too.
In that era, the table design by DHaus was as exclusive as it could get and the high-end offering was manufactured in Denmark for an exorbitant price. The design studio has now reincarnated the DTable as a low-cost flat-pack furniture piece, initially as a prototype, that’ll later hit production lines with the option to customize the finish. Dubbed DTable Deco HACK, it is designed in Paris and prototyped in London by Base Models. The table is crafted from recycled plastic materials for a modern, eco-conscious element.
DHaus is going to showcase the new-age prototypes – DTable Deco, Deco GREEN GOBLIN and the Deco HACK at the Paris Design Week. We’re more interested in the Deco HACK version as it has an integrated vinyl player for music lovers. The buck doesn’t stop there as the flatpack table has a Bluetooth speaker, wireless charger, alarm clock and bottle opener. This modern-day inclusion and the highly configurable features of the table make it ideal for apartment living and blend in with contemporary interior décor as well.
There’s no word yet on when the DTable will be available to buy but we can expect some revelation post the Paris Design Week from 5th to 14th September, 2024.
Despite all the conveniences and marvels of modern technology today, our safety and security are still concerns. The moment we step out the door, we never know what emergency we will be facing, leaving us wondering if we’re properly prepared for any task, challenge, or even danger. The news is always full of reports of crimes that leave people, especially women, wounded and traumatized. We can bring all the tools and safety precautions we need in a large bag, but that not only cramps our style but also impedes our mobility, especially when we’re going out for some exercise. Enter the FitBeltSafeguard (StayFit-StaySafe), a simple yet ingenious everyday belt that you can wrap around your waist any time, giving you access to 17 essential features. Each pocket stores an essential tool you’ll need to be more productive including in an emergency situations where you have to defend yourself or call for help.
Nothing is more stressful than leaving home only to realize that you forgot small but important things like a reusable bag for groceries, tissue paper, or worse, even your phone. That sense of dread is amplified when you find yourself in a dangerous situation without a way to protect yourself or even call for help. Who says only superheroes can have a utility belt full of tools that can save the day or even lives? With the FitBeltSafeguard everyday belt, you no longer need to leave home unprepared to face any eventuality, whether you’re going out for a run, doing some groceries, or simply enjoying the fresh air.
Built-in anti-skid technology to keep the belt on your waist at all times. Even an extreme training.
This incredibly slim belt features as many as 17 functions with all the hidden pockets, securely behind a flap. All you need to do is pinch the lower reflective lining of the belt and lift it up to gain access to the pocket underneath. No one knows where the pockets are or what they hold except you, thanks to vibrant icons that give you a clue which one is which. To anyone else, it simply looks like you’re wearing a cute but unassuming lumbar support belt like the ones athletes wear while training.
The pockets are also strategically placed where you need them the most. The front pocket, for example, holds your smartphone for quick and easy access at any time. The pepper spray pocket, which is compatible with many types of small pepper spray cans, is on the right where your hand naturally rests, allowing you to instantly pull it out at a moment’s notice. The panic alarm with built-in stainless steel magnetic chain emergency trigger technology allowing for easy activation even when your movement is being limited by an assailant. The loud sound, SOS, and LED the alarm produces ensures that you can be seen and heard.
Waterproof
In addition to these tools for fighting off dangerous actors, the belt is home to everyday essentials that make life so much more convenient, especially for those with active lifestyles. There’s a pocket for hand pads that lets you do pull-ups and push-ups safely without harming your hands, as well as an inflatable cushion for floor exercises or just sitting almost anywhere. You have access to a reusable shopping bag for those unexpected and unplanned market discoveries, while a roll of dog waste bags is also there for picking up after your furry friend. One of the most interesting items in this belt is the compressed tissue paper. Made of biodegradable eco-friendly material, these premium quality tear-resistant rolls of tissue magically expand with a few drops of water and can also be use without any water.
This is just the tip of the iceberg, and the FitBeltSafeguard has room for plenty more, including keys and credit cards. With all those things going inside it, it’s mind-blowing how this everyday belt remains compact and easy to use. Made of premium Lycra, the stretchable and durable material hugs your waist comfortably, and with the integrated anti-skid, you don’t have to worry about it bouncing and shifting, while industrial-grade Velcro makes sure it stays securely fastened around your body. Additionally, all the everyday essentials were specifically designed to fit the pouches perfectly and eliminate the bulkiness. Never again do you need to feel unprepared and vulnerable whenever you step outdoors with the FitBeltSafeguard. This is the one in a life time innovation that we all have been waiting for. A peace of mind for all!
People have different tastes when it comes to furniture, even something as functional as chairs. There are those that look for comfort while there are those that just want something they can sit on when working. There are people who look for highly aesthetic chairs that can fit into their space while there are those that like to look for more experimental kind of chairs.
Designer Name: Liam de la Beyodere
If you’re the last kind of person, this chair concept might be right up your alley. The Push Fit Chair uses frosted injection-moulded polycarbonate plastic for its parts. When you push them together and assemble it, you get a chair that sports a crystal-clear aesthetic. The idea is for light and colors to flow through the chair and lets it cast different patterns and shapes on nearby surfaces.
You can also remove the backrest part of the chair if you want to just have a stool type of furniture. You can also put the backrest on the side so you get a side table along with your chair. There is also space under where you can store items like books and knick knacks. If you put the full chair with the chair/side table together, then you have a more complete set.
Chairs made from polycarbonate plastic may not seem the most comfortable but based on the renders, you get something really pleasing to the eyes. And of course, we love multi-functional and modular things here, so that’s another bonus fro the Push Fit Chair.
People have different tastes when it comes to furniture, even something as functional as chairs. There are those that look for comfort while there are those that just want something they can sit on when working. There are people who look for highly aesthetic chairs that can fit into their space while there are those that like to look for more experimental kind of chairs.
Designer Name: Liam de la Beyodere
If you’re the last kind of person, this chair concept might be right up your alley. The Push Fit Chair uses frosted injection-moulded polycarbonate plastic for its parts. When you push them together and assemble it, you get a chair that sports a crystal-clear aesthetic. The idea is for light and colors to flow through the chair and lets it cast different patterns and shapes on nearby surfaces.
You can also remove the backrest part of the chair if you want to just have a stool type of furniture. You can also put the backrest on the side so you get a side table along with your chair. There is also space under where you can store items like books and knick knacks. If you put the full chair with the chair/side table together, then you have a more complete set.
Chairs made from polycarbonate plastic may not seem the most comfortable but based on the renders, you get something really pleasing to the eyes. And of course, we love multi-functional and modular things here, so that’s another bonus fro the Push Fit Chair.
