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Architects Hanna Karits and Mari Hunt used locally sourced wood to create this house in Estonia, which sits on top of a disused cellar in a forest.

Named Põro House, the home is designed to have minimal impact on its remote plot, which is surrounded by lakes and trees in Võru County.

It occupies a structure built almost entirely from wood, positioned on top of the existing basement walls and stilts that respond to the sloping site.

Architects Hanna Karits and Mari Hunt sourced materials for Põro House from within a 30-kilometre radius and aimed to use as much wood as possible to reference the forested site.

“The entire construction of the house is crafted from wood, not merely store-bought lumber but timber specially cut for this project,” Hunt told Dezeen.

“The wood was locally sourced from nearby forests in southern Estonia, selected by local craftsmen who possess the knowledge of precisely which trees to cut and the optimal timing for it.”

Põro House comprises a cuboidal volume topped with a pitched roof, both clad entirely in dark, stained timber. The black exterior draws from the design of the surrounding farm structures on the site.

The stone walls of the existing basement are left visible, and its interior can be accessed through an arched doorway beneath the balcony of the new structure.

“In order to relate to the environment, we tried to use as much wood as possible in our house concept and to do it in different ways,” said Karits. “We have the wooden roof, facade and wood interiors.”

“The aim was to add something new but elevate the historic buildings and also the old basement foundation on which the new house is built,” she continued. “At the same time we wanted to emphasise opposites, as the old houses have these old worn and beautiful parts and connections and the new house have refined modern details.”

The form of the home is guided by the narrow plan of the basement. It comprises smaller central rooms surrounded by open-plan living spaces.

Additional rooms, including a kitchen, double up as circulation routes around the edges of the plan.

“The form is mostly inspired by the limitations of the old foundation,” said Karits. “It pushed us to think out of the box and we had to find a way to make the house wider to fit everything.”

To expand on the available space, the home extends beyond the footprint of the cellar on a raised deck supported by stilts.

Accessed by a set of metal-mesh steps leading up to the main decking, Põro House’s main entrance opens into a hallway.

This hallway doubles as a narrow kitchen and sink area with large windows, wrapped around a central wooden volume containing the bathroom and a pantry.

“Large glass surfaces and natural light penetrate into places in the interior where people stand for long periods and gaze into the distance,” said the team.

Beyond the central volume, the rest of the home’s ground floor is taken up by an open-plan living and dining space that spans the full width of the building’s footprint.

Similarly to other rooms in Põro House, the living and dining areas feature large windows and larch furnishings that add warmth to the interior.

Dark accents including black cushions and chairs, as well as a dark grey sofa, also feature across the space, while a monolithic white fireplace sits at its centre.

Above the main level is a large bedroom topped with a pitched ceiling and brightened by a fully glazed facade on one end, while the old cellar beneath the home has been restored.

Other Estonian dwellings recently featured on Dezeen include a modular cantilevered treehouse and an “airy and spacious” holiday home filled with wooden features.

The photography is by Tõnu Tunnel.

The post Stone cellar in Estonian forest forms base for wooden Põro House appeared first on Dezeen.

UK LGBTQ+ media brand Gay Times is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Here, senior art director Jack Rowe shares five key magazine covers with progressive design language.

Rowe selected the covers from the 540 magazine covers included in Gay Times: The Exhibition, an audiovisual decade-by-decade timeline displaying the brand’s journey over the past 40 years.

“It’s about making a bold statement”

According to Rowe, the most successful covers were designed to make an impact, while reflecting the queer community.

“It’s about making a bold statement,” Rowe told Dezeen. “Our covers aim to spotlight talent in new and compelling ways, using imagery that captures attention while reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of the queer community.”

“The ideal cover balances visual impact with meaningful representation,” he continued.

“Looking back at our covers over the past 40 years you can see an evolution in both culture and design language.”

Established in 1984, Gay Times has been documenting pivotal queer cultural moments over the past 40 years, reporting on issues such as the AIDS crisis, the repeal of Section 28 and the fight for marriage equality.

Also honouring achievements and talents within the queer community, throughout the decades the brand has profiled icons and well-known figures including Freddie Mercury, David Bowie, Grace Jones and Lady Gaga.

“We hope people will be inspired”

For Gay Times: The Exhibition, the brand’s extensive archive of queer media was collated and curated for general public viewing, with a short bio on each era, starting with the first ever cover featuring the Gay Times masthead in May 1984.

“Drawing inspiration from the DIY look of our early magazines, we applied a newspaper cutting aesthetic to the entire exhibition – a nice contrast to ultra-high-resolution screens,” Rowe said.

“We hope people will be inspired by seeing how far we’ve come as a community and appreciate the rich content Gay Times has produced over the years.”

Below, Rowe shares five cover highlights from the 40-year archive of Gay Times.

Bronski Beat, Issue 75, November 1984

Strong lines, sharp angles and colourful geometric shapes defined Gay Times’ initial print graphics which utilised typical design trends of the 1980s.

“Early issues were crafted with a tactile, ‘cut and paste’ approach, featuring slightly wonky headlines and images full of noise from being scanned in,” Rowe said.

“These covers have a raw authentic feel that captures the DIY spirit of the time.”

A nod to this early cover, the music that accompanied Gay Times: The Exhibition was a remix by DJ Absolute of British band Bronski Beat’s queer anthem Smalltown Boy, also celebrating it’s 40th anniversary this year.

Kylie Minogue, July 1994

Technological innovations in typography such as font creation softwares, plus the advent of desktop publishing, informed the cluttered compositions of attention-grabbing cover lines in 1990s and 2000s print.

This striking photograph of Australian singer Kylie Minogue has been carefully posed for loud, vibrant cover lines to be placed on top and to fill in surrounding empty space.

“As you move through the decades, you can visually see the shift of new design technologies,” Rowe said.

“You start seeing ‘Word Art’ style headlines and the high-flash photography trend of the 90s.”

Orville Peck, Issue 508, Autumn 2020

To mark the magazine’s move from monthly to quarterly publication, Gay Times rebranded in 2020 for Issue 508’s two separate covers and began embracing a new strategy for the future through a renewed modern, minimalist approach.

The publication also introduced interactive digital features such as animated covers with motion graphics on Apple News+, and cover-themed Instagram filters such as the signature mask worn here by Canadian musician Orville Peck.

“More recently we’ve embraced the digital age, incorporating CGI and moving covers into our executions,” Rowe said.

“When selecting elements like photography style and typography, we draw inspiration from the person featured on the cover, infusing the design with a unique Gay Times point of view.”

Bimini, Issue 514, December 2021

Cover stars and names hold priority in this new simplified redesign over feature titles. English drag queen, model and recording artist Bimini fronted one of three digitally-rendered covers centred around the Gay Times Honours awards show in 2021.

A CGI garden backdrop and giant pink scrawled structure compliments the punk-inspired aesthetic of Bimini, who is stood in a powerful and provocative stance.

“Our approach to covers ensures the design is authentic to both the individual and the community while also pushing the boundaries of our publication,” Rowe said.

“Gay Times covers should challenge stereotypes and have the reader look at something with a new perspective.”

Unity!, Issue 518, April 2022

This landmark cover feature, shot by Joel Palmer, explored the theme of ‘Unity! Anarchy! Legacy!’ and the self-definitive freedom of what the term trans meant to Issue 518’s list of contributors, photographed here in an embrace.

Accentuating the strapline “LGBT – Incomplete without the T” is this issue’s Gay Times masthead, boldly showing a discoloured “T” for trans which stands out from all the other letters to signify its importance.

“We celebrated the strength and solidarity of the trans community with a series of powerful covers under the theme ‘Unity! Anarchy! Legacy!,” Rowe said.

“Gay Times covers should create a sense of community and bring that community to readers. A sense of belonging and inclusion no matter where in the world our readers are.”

The post Five Gay Times magazine covers that “balance visual impact with meaningful representation” appeared first on Dezeen.

Promotion: acoustic partition brand JEB Group has enclosed a wood-lined meeting room with a sliding partition system, forming the centrepiece of an office in Hong Kong.

Named “Summit Partition Systems”, the set up features a slim frame with a curved design, intended to integrate with the overall interior design. The project also uses the company’s Summit sliding door with a lightweight design and pared back extrusions.

JEB specialises in acoustic partitions and furniture for commercial interiors, where clients want to reduce noise and minimise disruption.

JEB said its Summit sliding doors are hung and constructed using a specially designed technique using gaskets to minimise sound when opening and closing.

The company said it is also able to achieve smooth access through a custom made track at the base and heavy rollers capable of bearing loads up to 300kg.

The partitions systems were customised by JEB with curved glass and matt black finishes for a financial planning company’s Hong Kong office.

Designed to “optimise acoustics and seamlessly blend charm and functionality”, Summit partitions provide a private space suitable for meetings, according to the company.

“One of the standout features of this workspace is our Summit partitions systems and matching sliding doors,” said the brand.

“These partitions are a perfect example of how thoughtful design can enhance the modern office environment. They offer a sleek and stylish appearance with a slim frame that complements the overall interior design,” the company continued.

“Their acoustic capabilities ensure that the workspace remains peaceful and free from distractions, creating an environment conducive to productivity,” added JEB Group.

Summit partitions system and matching sliding doors, like all JEB acoustic partitions, undergo ISO certified and third party laboratory testing, and can achieve an STC rating of up to 37 with their double glazing solutions, the company said.

“What’s more, the elegant curved feature of these doors adds a touch of sophistication to the space.”

According to the company, the Summit partition system is lightweight, ensuring “smooth and effortless operation”.

The switchable single glazed glass panes can be left transparent for visibility between meeting spaces or “misted” to maximise privacy when needed.

In addition to the Summit sliding doors, JEB Group curated a selection of modern and ergonomic furniture for the client.

“By prioritising comfort and functionality, these carefully chosen pieces added the perfect finishing touch to our client’s commercial space, catering to the modern needs of businesses in workstations and breakout areas,” said JEB Group.

JEB said it is committed to promoting sustainability practices striving to “repurpose unwanted furniture and relocate partitions to new sites” where possible.

The company aims to provide an array of design services: acoustic partitions, office furniture, bespoke facades and circular office fit-out solutions.

Other projects by JEB Group featured on Dezeen include glazed acoustic partitions and furniture created for UOW College Hong Kong.

To find out more about JEB Group, visit jebgroup.com.

The photography is courtesy of JEB Group.

Partnership content

This article was written by Dezeen for JEB Group as part of a partnership. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

The post JEB Group unveils partitions “optimised for acoustics” appeared first on Dezeen.

The rise of remote work has drastically changed our workspaces. The boundaries between work and play have blurred, and modern hybrid workers switch seamlessly from spreadsheets to gaming to Netflix—all from the same setup. Yet, when you think of an ergonomic chair, a mesh design like Herman Miller’s Aeron probably comes to mind. These chairs developed in the 1970s have become synonymous with corporate offices worldwide. However, is it time for us to consider other options?

Designer: Vincent Sin, Head of Industrial Design

Click Here to Know More.

Historical Context and Evolution of Ergonomic Chairs

The journey of ergonomic design began in the 1970s with chairs like the Herman Miller Aeron, which quickly became the gold standard for office seating.

Everyday workers rarely gave much thought to their sitting habits. Their typical workday meant long hours at the desk with minimal movement. Conversations about sitting often focused on achieving the perfect posture.

The rise of the tech industry and the shift to remote work blurred the lines between work and leisure. As work environments evolved, the need for more dynamic seating became clear. A good chair shouldn’t just do one thing — they must support everything from long hours of sitting to more relaxed, casual postures, no matter what you’re doing at the desk.

One company is leading this shift forward, recognizing the need for modern ergonomic solutions that meet the diverse needs of today.

The Evolution of Ergonomic Seating

Secretlab was founded in 2014 by Ian Ang and Alaric Choo, both avid gamers and StarCraft II professionals. Their journey began out of personal necessity— they needed chairs that could support their extensive practice sessions, often lasting up to 16 hours a day. Existing market options fell short of providing the required comfort and durability. This gap inspired them to design their own solution, leading to the creation of a new standard in seating.

The success of these designs among professional gamers brought Secretlab into the spotlight, but the company’s dedication to ergonomic science and high-quality materials also quickly expanded their user base beyond just the gaming community.

Today, Secretlab chairs are trusted by over 3 million users worldwide, reflecting their commitment to excellence. Despite its roots in designing chairs for esports players, the flagship chair, the Secretlab TITAN Evo, is making significant inroads into spaces traditionally dominated by mesh office chairs. From global esports stages to home offices and corporate boardrooms, it is fast becoming a top pick for anyone needing an ergonomic chair that can support long hours of sitting.

The appeal of the Secretlab TITAN Evo extends to a diverse range of users, including some of the most distinguished figures in various fields. Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer, is among its users, having scored his iconic scores in movies like “Dune” and “Top Gun: Maverick” in the comfort of a Secretlab TITAN Evo chair in his studio. Similarly, World No. 1 chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen has also adopted the Secretlab TITAN Evo, further highlighting its versatility and appeal.

The Secretlab Difference

What sets these chairs apart in a crowded market? While the Secretlab TITAN Evo might resemble other gaming chairs at first glance, a deeper inspection reveals significant differences. Every design choice is informed by extensive real-world data on how people actually sit. This commitment to evidence-based design is bolstered by collaborations with leading ergonomic experts and regular consultations with an independent Ergonomics Advisory Board to refine their products.

Central to their philosophy is the understanding that the human body is not meant to remain in a single, static posture for prolonged periods. Conversely, traditional ergonomic chairs often emphasize one “optimal” posture, which can lead to muscle and soft tissue strain over time.

Dr. Stuart McGill, professor emeritus at the University of Waterloo and a foremost authority on back pain, underscores this point. “Tissue loads must be migrated from tissue to tissue to minimize the risk of any single tissue accumulating microtrauma. This is accomplished by changing posture,” he explains.

Its proprietary pebble seat base exemplifies this philosophy. It features gently sloping sides that guide users towards the center for balanced pressure distribution while still allowing freedom to sit in various positions—whether leaning to one side or sitting cross-legged.

In comparison, most gaming chairs adopt a far more restrictive bucket seat design inspired by racing seats. These designs work well in race cars to help drivers remain snug and secure in their seats when racing at 220 mph, but they have no place in ergonomic chairs, says Secretlab.

Instead, they prioritize flexibility, allowing users to transition between different tasks and postures effortlessly.

Settling the Debate: Mesh vs. Foam in Chair Design

The choice of upholstery materials plays a critical role in chair comfort and support. While mesh is favored for its breathability, foam offers substantial support, particularly for extended use.

Research from the University of California, Berkeley, found no significant differences between foam and mesh in terms of comfort, pain, and fatigue. However, participants reported finding foam chairs more supportive over long hours, with better pressure distribution.

That said, not all foam is created equal. Secretlab engineered their own patent-pending cold-cure foam to provide uniform weight distribution and consistent density. They cured their foam at lower temperatures, resulting in a medium-firm texture that resists sagging and reduces strain on the back. By ensuring even pressure distribution, it enhances long-term comfort, making it a strong contender against traditional mesh.

Mesh chairs, on the other hand, excel in breathability, keeping users cool during long periods of sitting. The choice between foam and mesh ultimately depends on individual preferences and specific needs, but both materials have their distinct advantages.

A New Type of Computer Chair

Recognizing the shift in workplace habits accelerated by the pandemic, Secretlab leads the way in adaptable furniture design. Their chairs support various activities, from video calls to streaming, by prioritizing movement and versatility.
This approach meets the needs of today’s workers and paves the way for future ergonomic innovations, ensuring comfort and productivity in a world where work and play often overlap.

Click Here to Know More.

The post Why most chairs are outdated and Secretlab’s take on a good design for modern ergonomics first appeared on Yanko Design.

Blom is a refreshing and innovative approach to air purification. It is a wall and stand air purifier, that transforms the mundane function of air purification into an aesthetically pleasing experience. Inspired by the elegance of a flower, Blom not only enhances air quality but also elevates the visual appeal of any interior space, truly living up to its name derived from “bloom.”

Designer: Hyunjae Noh and Designer dot

The beauty of Blom lies in its organic shape that mimics the natural form of a flower. This design choice is both symbolic and functional, reflecting the purifier’s mission to blend seamlessly with nature. Plants, often regarded as natural air purifiers, serve as a fitting inspiration. While plants contribute to cleaner air by producing oxygen and filtering out certain pollutants, Blom takes this concept a step further by incorporating advanced air purification technology within a floral form.

Blom is an air purifier and an interior object that enhances the ambiance of your living space. Traditional air purifiers often occupy space and can be an eyesore when not in use. Blom, with its flower-inspired design, offers a new experience by adding visual pleasure even when it’s off. Whether mounted on a wall or placed on a stand, it can be customized to suit any room, turning a functional appliance into a piece of art.

Flexibility is at the heart of Blom’s design. Available in four colors, it can be wall-mounted or stand-alone, allowing users to integrate it seamlessly into their homes. An integrated handle adds to its portability, making it easy to move from one room to another. Whether you need fresh air in your office, during a workout session, or in any other part of your home, it adapts to your needs without requiring multiple units.

The purifier is equipped with a state-of-the-art HEPA filter that purifies air efficiently. Air enters through the rear intake, passes through the HEPA filter, and is released through the front outlet, ensuring a continuous flow of clean air. The intuitive design includes a remote control that magnetically attaches to the center of the unit, ensuring it is always within reach and never misplaced.

The integration of smart technology further enhances Blom’s functionality. Users can register their Blom air purifier through a QR code located on the back of the unit and operate it via a dedicated application. The neumorphism-style user interface provides a modern and user-friendly experience, giving users complete control over their air quality.

The air purifier also serves as a digital clock, adding to its utility and charm. When wall-mounted, it functions as a stylish timepiece that also purifies the air, making it a multifunctional addition to any room. This dual functionality ensures that Blom is not just an appliance but a valuable and constant part of your living space.

The post Flower-shaped Air Purifier adds a touch of abstract nature style while cleansing home air first appeared on Yanko Design.