I can’t figure this one out. This Flexify Air Fryer Oven, by Chinese appliance brand Midea, was voted best-in-show by The Kitchn—and it has French doors.

For heaven’s sake, why? The chunky handles not only obscure the view, but add a degree of manufacturing complexity; the doors are linked by a mechanism, so that opening one, opens the other.

If I take the product copy at face value, it seems they’re trying to somehow enrich the UX. They refer to the door design as “elegant” before writing “This exquisite appliance features a one-pull, dual-opening door system, seamlessly blending chic aesthetics with unmatched practicality.”

The aesthetics is subjective, but “practicality” oughtn’t be, and I can’t puzzle out how the arrangement improves matters. If anything, having two doors on the side means it requires a greater distance to pull the food out and clear the appliance, versus a bottom-hinged door.

I don’t have air fryer experience. If you do, and there’s something in the process that you can see benefitting from this design, please do sound off.

Dezeen Showroom: Spanish studio Mayice has created a tactile, angular rug made from pure, undyed Merino wool for Spanish design brand Gan</a.

The Lines rug features rows of undyed, long-pile Merino wool arranged in zigzagging sections that Mayice likens to an aerial view of fields.

The rug was designed for Spanish brand Gan with an emphasis on tactility, with its rows of thick, dense wool creating a rarely-seen effect that invites touch.

“Touch is the first sense to develop in human life, so we felt it was important to associate it with a rug,” said Mayice. “We enjoy working with noble and authentic materials because they feel honest to us and are closely connected to nature.”

To further lean into this authenticity, the wool is left undyed, allowing the natural nuances and variation in the material to create depth and convey a sense of connection with the earth.

The Lines rug is available in two sizes and four colours, and it can either be used singly or connected to additional rugs, resulting in a modular composition.

Product details:

Product: Lines
Designer: Mayice
Brand: Gan
Contact: info@gan-rugs.com

Material: wool
Colours/finishes: white, brown, grey or charcoal
Dimensions: 1720 x 2800 millimetres or 2050 x 3340 millimetres

Dezeen Showroom

Dezeen Showroom offers an affordable space for brands to launch new products and showcase their designers and projects to Dezeen’s huge global audience. For more details email showroom@dezeen.com.

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The post Lines rug by Mayice for Gan appeared first on Dezeen.

Architecture and interior design integrate numerous design principles, with particular emphasis on achieving balance. Balance stands as a fundamental principle in interior design, promoting harmony through the arrangement of elements in visually pleasing and stable configurations. Therefore, the primary aim of a balanced space is to emphasize visual stability and achieve compositional harmony.

Designer: Sonal Tuli

Types of Balance

The three types of balance include:

Symmetrical Balance

Symmetrical balance mirrors items along a central axis, evoking stability, serenity, and sophistication in interior design, though it can be seen as static and unimaginative. Achieving symmetry involves the use of patterns in fabric, furniture arrangement, and color application to create symmetrical balance.

Asymmetrical Balance

Asymmetrical balance is primarily based on the visual weight of objects, employing different elements with similar perceived weight on opposing axes rather than repeating identical items. Complex shapes, often weightier, are commonly used to achieve this balance, resulting in dynamic and flexible interiors. Note that achieving asymmetrical balance can be challenging and often requires the expertise of a professional.

The Jaipur Furniture Collection by Sonal Tuli beautifully combines tradition and modernity, celebrating Jaipur, India’s vibrant pink city. This collection captures the essence and cultural heritage of Jaipur through its asymmetrical console design. By merging functionality with elegance, the pieces subtly reference Jaipur’s iconic architecture and blue pottery artistry, making them artistic masterpieces suitable for any space.

Radial Balance

Image courtesy of: LightFieldStudios

Radial balance involves arranging items in a circular pattern around a central point, either spreading outward or inward. In interior design, this can be seen with chairs around a table or the structure of a lighting fixture. It’s a great way to highlight a central piece in a room.

Why is balance important in interior design?

Balance, a fundamental design principle, imbues spaces with stability and visual appeal, fostering a sense of unity and cohesion in the design. Yet, excessive or inadequate balance can disrupt harmony and evoke discomfort.

Top Eight Ways to Achieve Balance within Interior Design

1. Create a Symmetrical Design

Image courtesy of: digitalstormcinema

Symmetry stands as one of the key principles that is used to achieve equilibrium within interior design. Its simplicity lies in striving to replicate a mirror image from the room’s center, aligning furniture, design elements, and overall decor around a central focal point, such as a fireplace. Balance can be attained when organizing layouts and displays by creating symmetrical harmony, and placing similar objects or furniture on each side of a central axis. For instance, placing matching coffee tables on either side of a sofa or bed, each adorned with a lamp illustrates this approach. Some perceive it as outdated as it is commonly used in the traditional design style.

2. Achieve Balance with Asymmetry

In modern interior design, asymmetry is preferred over symmetry for its less formal feel. Designers distribute furniture and decor asymmetrically, with varying heights and weights on either side of a room’s center. This creates balance without strict matching. For instance, in a minimalist living room, off-center elements like a floor lamp and a side table balance each other, showcasing asymmetrical harmony.

Designer: Deniz Aktay

Seeking balance is inherent in both our lives and possessions. The Shaolin side table embodies this principle, appearing both perplexing and practical. Its design, with a flat tabletop seemingly resting precariously on a curved base, evokes a martial artist’s balance. However, two interlocking metal sheets form its sides, ensuring stability. The contrasting red and black colors enhance its visual appeal, while a central space provides a practical spot for everyday items. Metaphorically, it symbolizes finding balance amidst opposing forces, offering a reminder of life’s perpetual juggle.

3. Mix Old and New

Image courtesy of: jwyma

To find balance, mix different styles like eclectic and transitional, or merge vintage and modern elements, but it is essential to avoid clutter. For instance, in a room, modern furniture and neutral colors go well with classic pieces and antique touches like rugs, giving the space a timeless charm.

4. Radial Symmetry

Image courtesy of: hemul75

Radial symmetry creates balance with a central focal point, like a chandelier, while other items radiate outward in a circular layout. This symmetry can evoke a formal or sociable atmosphere, akin to classic symmetry. In a dining room, rounded fixtures and decor encircling a circular table and rug can enhance this symmetrical design, resulting in a cohesive and visually pleasing space.

5. Introduce Textures

Another approach to achieving balance involves the use of texture as layering different textures, fabrics, and finishes adds depth to a space. For instance, if your room feels too smooth, introducing contrasting textures like a coarse woven rug or textured wall panels can inject visual interest. In a living area, combining sleek modern furniture with rustic wooden accents can create a cozy ambiance within the interiors.

Designer: Studio TZEN

The textured design of Hazy conceals plants while creating visual drama and allowing sunlight to reach leaves diffused. Hazy serves as an office shelf and planter-holder, featuring a minimalist Nordic style with options for vertical or horizontal columns. Vertical columns accommodate planters, facilitating water flow, while a fluted glass panel adds aesthetic appeal. For a more utilitarian function, horizontal shelves can be used with a whiteboard. Hazy offers flexible office furniture solutions, with wheels for easy movement. Designed by Studio TZEN for Onmuse, it is a versatile addition to any workspace.

6. Achieve Balance with Color

Image courtesy of: AveCalvar

Mixing warm and cool colors in your space helps balance the atmosphere. You can achieve this by using warm colors for walls and furniture, and cool tones for accessories. Conversely, cool wall and furniture colors can be complemented with warm lighting and artwork. Understanding color theory is crucial. The 60-30-10 rule simplifies space proportioning: allocate 60% to one color to the walls, 30% to a complementary color like furniture, and 10% to accents like accessories.

Designer: Pavel Vetrov

Funky is a vibrant and versatile furniture collection that adds eclectic charm to any space. With its perfect blend of vibrant colors and neutrals that balance each other, “Funky” effortlessly complements various interior styles. Featuring protruding pieces on varied axes, it offers versatility as a console table, TV unit, bar unit, or buffet table.

7. Introduce Negative Space

Image courtesy of: hemul75

In design, balancing visual weight is crucial, but incorporating negative space is equally vital. Negative space helps offset areas with heavier elements, fostering harmony in the overall design. It serves as breathing room for the eye. For instance, in a living room, a large sectional sofa dominates one area, while negative space prevails in the rest of the room, creating a sense of openness and balance. Balancing functional and aesthetic elements ensures the design’s coherence and clarity.

8. Play with Shapes

In interior design, balance can be achieved by blending different shapes within a space. Combining round elements with straight lines and right angles creates contrast and visual interest. For example, placing a circular center table with straight-line sofas just as in this image can add harmony to the design. By limiting the number of elements in the space, graphic shapes stand out clearly without being overwhelmed by clutter.

Image courtesy of: dit26978

These tips will surely help you in achieving balance in your home decor, establishing both stability and interest. When applied correctly, they foster unity and may introduce drama, but excessive or insufficient application of balance can disrupt the harmony of the room.

The post Principles of Interior Design: Balance first appeared on Yanko Design.

The revamp of a 1960s estate and a stepped brick terrace on an infill site feature on the 2024 shortlist for the Royal Institute of British Architects‘ Neave Brown Award for Housing.

A neighbourhood with 235 socially rented homes also features on the four-strong shortlist, alongside apartments tailored to older residents on a vacant brownfield site.

The Neave Brown Award for Housing is awarded annually by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) to celebrate the UK’s best new affordable homes.

It is given in memory of modernist architect Neave Brown, who was a pioneer of social housing.

Three of this year’s shortlisted projects are in London. These are Dover Court Estate by Pollard Thomas Edwards, Unity Place by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Alison Brooks Architects, Gort Scott and RM_A Architect, and Chowdhury Walk by Al-Jawad Pike – a project also shortlisted for this year’s Stirling Prize.

The only project outside of London is North Gate Social Housing in Glasgow by PagePark.

RIBA president Muyiwa Oki said the shortlist demonstrates that social housing should be seen as “a great opportunity” for architects.

“This year’s shortlist reaffirms that creating social housing should not be seen as a limitation to architects, but a great opportunity,” reflected Oki.

“Each brief has taken run-down or underused spaces and created outstanding projects that serve the needs of residents and the wider community,” he continued. “These schemes thoughtfully balance the environment, community, and quality, reinforcing the reality that when designing social housing, good design need not compromise on any of the three.”

The North Gate Social Housing in Glasgow occupies an empty brownfield site and comprises 31 flats. Designed by PagePark primarily to suit the needs of older residents, the homes are all available for social rent.

Stirling Prize-shortlisted Chowdhury Walk by Al-Jawad Pike is a stepped cluster of two-storey homes, slotted on a plot between two existing terraces in Hackney that was previously occupied by cars.

Seven of the 11 houses in this development are available for social rent, with the remainder designed for private sale.

Dover Court Estate is a revamp of a 1960s housing complex in Islington, which has been carried out by Pollard Thomas Edwards to maintain its existing communities while improving their quality of life.

The studio has introduced 70 homes across the estate by replacing disused garages and also introduced a sports court and community centre.

Unity Place is the final project on the shortlist, designed by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Alison Brooks Architects, Gort Scott and RM_A Architect in line with constraints relating to the neighbouring conservation areas.

It comprises 235 social homes in a range of sizes, which are all available for social rent. They exist alongside a series of community-centred public spaces, including a play area.

This year’s jury for the Neave Brown Award for Housing is made up of Allies and Morison co-founder Bob Allies and the daughter of the award’s namesake, Zoe Brown.

It is being chaired by Astrid Smitham, the founder of Apparata, which was awarded the prize last year for A House for Artists.

Smitham said the shortlist illustrates the value of “great partnerships between clients and architects”.

“At a time when the UK sets out to build 1.5 million new homes, this shortlist shows the importance of great partnerships between clients and architects in delivering housing of the very highest standard, that everyone deserves,” she explained.

“These projects show how the next wave of UK home building can help individuals and communities to thrive,” added Smitham.

The winner of the Neave Brown Award for Housing 2024 will be announced at the RIBA Stirling Prize ceremony on Wednesday 16 October 2024 at The Roundhouse in London.

This will coincide with the Stirling Prize ceremony, for which six buildings in England have been shortlisted. Just two are outside of London.

The post RIBA reveals UK’s best affordable housing for 2024 appeared first on Dezeen.

Dezeen School Shows: a toy that teaches children about sustainability and ecosystems is featured in Dezeen’s latest school show from the IDSA.

Also included is a wheelchair designed for disabled parents and a chair intended to improve posture, complete with a customisable app.

Industrial Designer’s Society of America

Institution: Industrial Designer’s Society of America

Statement:

“The 2024 International Design Conference and IDSA Education Symposium, the annual flagship event of the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), took place in Austin, Texas, from 11 to 13 September, bringing together global leaders to celebrate cutting-edge design, creativity and innovation.

“Over three immersive days, the conference fostered a unique blend of inspiration, collaboration and forward-thinking discussions.

“A key highlight was the spotlight on emerging talent, with remarkable student work taking centre stage and showcasing the next generation of design leaders.

“On the main stage, the 2024 IDSA Student Merit Award winners were revealed, selected by an esteemed panel of industry experts.

“These young designers represent the future of industrial design, demonstrating outstanding creativity, vision and dedication to pushing the boundaries of the field.

“Further emphasising the importance of student excellence, the 44th annual International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) celebrated a number of outstanding student winners.

“This prestigious recognition underscores the profound influence that emerging designers are having on the ever-evolving landscape of industrial design.”

Golden Capsule (IDEA Gold Winner) by Yujin Chae, Yuan Bai, Daeyeon Kim and Yeonghwan Shin

“Golden Capsule is a power-free, gravity-free intravenous (IV) injection device aimed at improving rescue efficiency in disaster scenarios.

“Traditional IV systems rely on gravity and electricity, which pose challenges in rough, debris-filled environments; Golden Capsule utilises elastic force and negative pressure to administer fluids consistently without the need for manual squeezing or electricity.

“Its compact, attachable design enables rescuers to transport patients more safely and efficiently, while delivering fluids at rates 1.5 times faster than conventional IV systems.

“The device is not only suited for disaster relief but has potential applications in hospitals, homes and military settings, offering greater freedom and long-term cost savings.

“Its reusable and sustainable design makes it a game-changing innovation for fluid delivery, especially as demand for home treatment solutions rises globally.”

Students: Yujin Chae, Yuan Bai, Daeyeon Kim and Yeonghwan Shin
School: Hongik University

Ourhour (IDEA Gold Winner) by Yunho Kim, Susanna Kim, S/IDSA, Seungwhan Ra, Youngsuh Yoo and Seoyoung Lee

“Our Hour is a smart mobility solution for physically impaired parents, offering an innovative way to enhance parent-child interactions.

“Combining an electric wheelchair with a baby capsule, Our Hour facilitates safe and comfortable family outings by enabling natural physical interactions through its PHRI arm, which allows parents to physically engage with their children.

“Its modular system adds versatility, adapting the product for various activities, from simple walks to long-distance trips.

“Designed to overcome the challenges faced by disabled parents, Our Hour promotes emotional connections by creating positive memories, while its 360-degree mobility and adaptable structure improve safety and convenience – fostering an enriched parenting experience and contributing to a more supportive and inclusive society.”

Students: Yunho Kim, Susanna Kim, S/IDSA, Seungwhan Ra, Youngsuh Yoo and Seoyoung Lee
Schools: Samsung Design Membership for Kookmin University, Ewha Womans University and Chung-Ang University

Frux (IDEA Silver Winner) by Vincent (Wen Cheng) Lee, Erika Wiliams, Laura Lopez Andreu, Diana Li Sam and Bre Judge

“Frux is a revolutionary system aimed at reducing food waste during the distribution stage of the supply chain, by replacing traditional cardboard packaging with reusable bins, equipped with sensors to monitor humidity, temperature and ethylene levels.

“This data-driven solution allows warehouse managers to optimise inventory management, reduce spoilage and improve efficiency.

“Frux’s integrated digital platform streamlines order processing, inventory tracking and client communication, empowering stakeholders with transparency and control.

“Frux offers a comprehensive approach that not only minimises environmental impact but also redefines the distribution process, fostering collaboration, reducing waste and enhancing profitability for distributors.

“Its combination of operational management systems and customer relationship management tailored for distribution centres positions Frux as a unique market solution that drives both business success and environmental stewardship.”

Student: Vincent (Wen Cheng) Lee, Erika Wiliams, Laura Lopez Andreu, Diana Li Sam and Bre Judge
School: Savannah College of Art and Design

Sprout-Accompanying Growth Stroller (IDEA Silver Winner) by Song Qiao of Dalian Minzu University and Sui Pan, Kairui Deng, Jianhong Guo and Xiang Chen

“The Sprout-Accompanying Growth Stroller is a multi-functional baby stroller that evolves with children from ages two to ten.

“It transforms into three distinct forms, adapting to children’s developmental stages and combines the functions of a balance bike and a scooter, extending the stroller’s lifespan and reducing the need for frequent replacements.

“This versatility helps cultivate a sense of companionship and responsibility in children while saving material resources.

“Designed with a flexible sliding and locking structure, Sprout is easy to modify and safe for children to operate, whilst being crafted from recyclable materials.

“The stroller’s extended lifespan, cost-efficiency and emotional care features make it a standout product for both families and the market, supporting sustainable development and enhancing the physical and mental wellbeing of children.”

Student: Song Qiao, Sui Pan, Kairui Deng, Jianhong Guo and Xiang Chen
Schools: Dalian Minzu University and Jiangnan University

Civilian Search and Rescue by Anastasia Charnesky (2024 SMA Winner)

“The Civilian Search and Rescue project focuses on improving the efficiency and accessibility of search and rescue (SAR) operations during disaster recovery, especially in the critical first hours known as the ‘golden hours’.

“Using insights from the 2010 Haiti Earthquake case study, the project highlights the disparity between international and local SAR responses, showing that local, civilian-led efforts are faster but often less equipped.

“Current SAR technology is expensive, complex and requires extensive training, leaving civilians unable to assist effectively in rescue efforts.

“Charnesky’s SAR Thesis Studio explores form factors for drone architectures and other tools that can aid both above and below rubble operations, emphasising hands-free usage for civilians and simple startup processes, with design objectives that prioritise accessibility, longevity and efficiency.

“The project integrates both thermal and standard cameras to enhance rescue efforts in various light conditions, inspired by the simplicity and clear design cues of AEDs to create easy-to-use, distinguishable tools that civilians can operate in disaster scenarios.”

Student: Anastasia Charnesky
School: Western Michigan University

Next by Sebastian Gomez-Puerto (GSMA Winner)

“Next is a seating innovation designed to promote healthier sitting habits by encouraging users to frequently change their sitting position.

“The concept is rooted in the idea that the best sitting position for the lower back is the next one, advocating for movement and posture variation throughout the day.

“The chair integrates an ultrasonic ranger embedded into the seat cushion to track the user’s sitting time and posture.

“Paired with a customisable app, Next allows users to set personalised sitting time limits and receive gentle vibration alerts when it’s time to change position.”

Student: Sebastian Gomez-Puerto (GSMA Winner)
School: Savannah College of Art and Design

Auto Sphere by Kuangming Qin (GSMA Winner)

“Auto Sphere is a human-vehicle interface concept designed for L3 and L4 self-driving vehicles, allowing users to take control or adjust automation during their journey.

“The interface addresses the unpredictability of road trips by enabling users to interact with the vehicle for tasks like changing lanes, roadside parking or rerouting to a new destination.

“Auto Sphere uses a joystick controller, touchpad and scroll wheel to simplify user input and provide real-time feedback, ensuring that users can intervene seamlessly when necessary; the joystick emerged as the preferred input device, offering intuitive control.

“The system is divided into two main areas of interaction: inside-out stimuli (for example, spontaneous stops) and outside-in stimuli (for example, changes prompted by external factors).

“The graphical user interface adapts to different inputs, displaying essential information like road conditions, trip progress and system status while minimising learning curves.”

Student: Kuangming Qin
School: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Oht Dinnerware Collection by Tage Wrage

“The Oht Dinnerware Collection is a modern, adaptive solution designed to offer both functionality and aesthetics for individuals with disabilities.

“Made from moulded, dimpled stoneware with a glossy glaze, the collection is microwave, dishwasher and oven safe.

“It integrates key adaptive features such as handles, touchpoints, high rims and solid bases to promote independence and reduce spills, while maintaining an elevated, sculptural design.

“Unlike traditional clinical-looking adaptive tools, Oht’s stoneware material fosters a sense of belonging and togetherness, offering an option that aligns with mainstream dinnerware sets.

“By balancing aesthetics with durability, this collection enhances usability without compromising style, making it a more inclusive choice for everyday dining.”

Student: Tage Wrage
School: University of Minnesota

Adæpt (IDEA Gold Winner) by Zexi Ye

“Adæpt is an innovative solution that improves computer accessibility for individuals with cerebral palsy.

“The device addresses the challenges cerebral palsy users face when using traditional input devices, which are not designed for their unique gestures and involuntary muscle contractions.

“Adæpt’s touchpad design allows users to control a focus indicator on the screen through specific hand movements, enabling independent navigation in the digital world.

“By integrating customisable interaction modes and AI technology to adapt to different scenarios and software, Adæpt provides flexibility and dignity to its users.

“Additionally, the device benefits caregivers by allowing remote assistance through a mobile app, saving time and offering them more personal freedom.”

Student: Zexi Ye
School: ArtCentre College of Design

Anio Block Toys by Lucia Li

“Anio Block Toys introduces children aged three to five to nature-centric systems thinking through hands-on, tactile play.

“These sustainable toys are designed to engage young learners in exploring predator-prey relationships and natural systems, making abstract ecological concepts tangible.

“The focus on product lifecycle ensures sustainability through mindful material usage and longevity, while the toys promote active, material-based learning.

“Anio Block Toys help children build connections to the natural world, encouraging a deeper understanding of the balance within ecosystems.”

Student: Lucia Li
School: Rhode Island School of Design

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and IDSA. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

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