At one point in most people’s lives, they have probably played with or interacted with a Nintendo gaming device. Now what device that is is of course depends on the generation but with more than a hundred years of experience in creating games, there are a lot of things to choose from. And if you’re a die-hard fan of their various games and consoles, then you’ll want to book a ticket to what will surely be the hottest thing in town in a couple of months.

Designer: Nintendo

Yes, we are finally getting a Nintendo Museum opening this October and built on the very space where they started creating hanafuda playing cards in 1889. Because this company has gone through many evolutions since then, you can expect a fun and interactive history lesson spanning a century of family entertainment. There will be various exhibits as well as a cafe and of course, an extensive merchandise shop that will celebrate all kinds of games and technology. There will also be arts and crafts and workshops section where you can do things like create your own hanafuda cards.

The first floor of the Exhibition Building 1 has eight interactive play experiences. Each visitor will get a card that contains ten digital coins to be able to try out the exhibits. They did not specify it but you will probably be able to top up the card if you want to try out everything. The Shigureden SP lets you explore Hyakunin Isshu poems using your smart device and viewing it on the giant screen. The Ultra Machine SP rooms lets you hit balls pitched by a machine and hit items in the room that will react. The Zapper & Scope SP gives you a shooting experience in the world of Mario while the Ultra Hand SP lets you grab balls rolling down lanes and dropping them in pipes. You can also play Nintendo games in areas like the Game & Watch SP, Nintendo Classics, and Big Controller with giant game consoles. There’s even a Love Tester SP where you can see if you and your loved one are compatible.

On the 2nd floor is the museum part where there are exhibits of everything that Nintendo has created throughout the years. This includes the era before they created gaming devices and it includes copying machines, baby strollers, and of course the hanafuda cards and various board games. But of course the highlight would be all the gaming consoles and games that have made them arguably the most popular entertainment company in the world. The Nintendo Museum opens in October but you can already buy your tickets, although if you’re familiar with Japan ticketing, you know that it’s via a randomly selected drawing.

The post Nintendo Museum to showcase 132 years of the company’s gaming history first appeared on Yanko Design.

Almost everyone wants smartphones with big screens because of how much content they can see, but those same people probably don’t like using big phones because they require both hands to use comfortably and securely. Some manufacturers have introduced “one-handed mode” features that shrink the screen to a smaller size temporarily, but not only is that actually more cumbersome, it is also less accurate because of the small area you have to hit with your large finger. We don’t have problems using computers with gigantic monitors because we have computer mice that offer precise and accurate control, even if we’re not touching the screen itself. That’s the kind of control that this concept design is trying to bring to smartphones, practically putting a miniature Apple Magic Mouse on the back of large phones.

Designer: Geontak Oh

The computer mouse is actually a very weird and unintuitive tool that has become second nature to most people by now. You are indirectly controlling the screen, moving a detached piece of hardware whose only connection to the computer is an arbitrary one. Before touch screens were a thing, it was really the only way to interact with a graphical user interface, so it’s a bit ironic that we might need something similar to do the same on touch-enabled devices like smartphones.

Poinf is a design concept that tries to solve the problem of using a large smartphone with one hand. With the way we hold our phones, the thumb is the only finger we can use to tap on the screen, which is next to impossible if the screen is too big for our stumpiest finger to reach. But what if you could use a different finger to do that? And what if that finger is always on the back of your phone anyway?

The idea is to put what is practically a small, squarish touchpad on the back of the phone, held there using MagSafe or other magnetic technology. The actual interactive part is a small quadrant of the slim device, an area that can be easily reached by your index or even middle finger. You slide your finger across the surface, pushing around the equivalent of a cursor, and use tapping gestures to “click” on user interface elements. You can easily detach Poinf when you don’t need it, so it doesn’t get in the way of “normal” smartphone use.

Poinf is definitely an intriguing solution to a very old problem, but it also brings a few issues of its own, particularly with usability. Moving a cursor by moving a finger on the back of the screen could require some mental gymnastics, severely affecting your speed and efficiency in the process. Of course, your brain can eventually adjust, like how it has come to accept the computer mouse, but it will take time and effort before that becomes second nature. Additionally, however, you also lose access to important touch gestures like pinching to zoom or quick scrolling, so you’ll have to do double work to teach yourself a new action vocabulary for this rather niche control mechanism. In the end, you might give up and just use the phone with both hands anyway.

The post Smartphone touchpad concept tries to solve one of the biggest problems with big phones first appeared on Yanko Design.

Indoor gardening can be a soothing and relaxing hobby. It is an extremely therapeutic activity, and though I may not engage in it all the time, the few times that I have, I found it delightful and soothing. Growing, tending to, and being surrounded by plants is intensely satisfying. All your worries slowly fade away, and you are simply enthralled by nature. Indoor gardening has become one of the major trends these days! Plants can truly transform a living space with their gentle presence. They add a touch of green and nature and create a serene and zen atmosphere. But tending to them is not always the easiest task. You must pay special attention to your beloved plants and give them the best care to ensure they grow well. And, we’ve curated a whole collection of product designs to help you with that – happy gardening!

1. Briiv Pro

Named the Briiv Pro, this eco-friendly purifier utilizes a mix of nature and technology to clean and purify the air within your home. The Briiv Pro is a new and improved version of the original Briiv, and it is more powerful than ever. Designed to be a ‘mini forest’, the air purifier can cleanse a 16 sq.m. room in 21 minutes. It is 6900% more effective than house plants!

Why is it noteworthy?

Since the Briiv Pro is 6900% more effective and efficient than house plants, it is a truly commendable feat considering its size. The purifier is not only functional but also pretty good-looking, unlike the bulky and ugly appliances that you get on the market these days.

What we like

• Features an AI-based sensor
• Equipped with a layered trifecta of moss, coconut fiber, and a silk nanofiber matrix with activated carbon

What we dislike

• The Briiv Pro isn’t as fast as other air purifiers on the market, and it is quite expensive as well

2. Patella Crescenda

Named the Patella Crescenda, this planter fits perfectly in both your palms and lets you grow greens with complete ease and efficiency. The planter has a unique shape, which lets it water itself, ensuring you don’t need to. You can grow seeds without any soil, and the sprouts grow in about a week. The planter is reusable as well, ensuring you always have a fresh supply of microgreens.

Why is it noteworthy?

The planter includes four parts – a base tray, two reusable steel seed plates, and a water bulb that fits on top. All the parts come together, helping your greens sprout within a week. They grow in the water, without any soil, so you don’t even need to clean them.

What we like

• Intuitive design
• Fun to use product

What we dislike

• It works only for micro-greens and cannot be converted into long-lasting plants

3. Green Hideaway Chair

Dubbed the Green Hideaway Chair, this DIY living plant chair lets you connect with nature. It is created by Stockholm-based studio Front/ in collaboration with the European DIY chain HORNBACH, and its creative agency HeimatTBWA. With the Hideaway Chair, you can add a touch of green to your home.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Green Hideaway Chair doesn’t need any professional expertise to set it up. DIYers of all skill levels can easily set up this simple chair. The chair is accompanied by illustrated, step-by-step instructions,  a template, as well as an entire list of tools and materials that you may need. The entire process is laid out for you.

What we like

• Makes nature accessible to you in your own home

What we dislike

• It will occupy some space,  so you need to make sure you have sufficient space to add it to your home

4. Noku Canvas

Called the Noku Canvas, this self-watering and modular greenwall is designed for your home. It converts your houseplants into wall-mounted hydroponic marvels, letting you add a touch of green to any room in your home, whether it is your home office, living room, or even the kitchen!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Noku Canvas is self-watering, as it is amped with wicking hydroponics that water your plants for you. It is equipped with a useful little water gauge which reminds you when to refill the water.

What we like

• Modular design, so you can customize it however you want
• Built from recycled plastic and natural cork

What we dislike

• It only includes a wall-mounted version, there is a limited choice

5. Totam Planter

Say hello to the totam planter – a modular self-watering indoor garden that is created to enhance your space. You can personalize the planter according to your taste and needs. It is a one-of-a-kind vertical indoor garden that showcases and displays your beloved plants with pride. You can grow microgreens, succulents, food, flowers, whatever you like!

Why is it noteworthy?

It is a modular design, so you can build your own customized totam planter using a combination of different modules. You can use a whole bunch of different modules to create your own perfect tower. By adding vertical modules to the tower, you can create extra space for tall or trailing plants to grow freely.

What we like

• Packs a whole bunch of greens into a small countertop footprint
• You can schedule lighting at the touch of a button

What we dislike

• They currently don’t offer any Matter/HomeKit support for their lighting

The post Top 5 Ultimate Planter Designs For A Flourishing Indoor Garden Through The Seasons first appeared on Yanko Design.

A local legend offers eight spots for first-timers and returning visitors alike

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Word of Mouth: Nantucket According to Cisco Brewers’ CEO, Jay Harman

A local legend offers eight spots for first-timers and returning visitors alike

Emily Gerard

2 September 2024

Bestselling author Elin Hilderbrand has been writing about Nantucket, where she lives, for decades. Her enormously popular beach reads about the exploits of “the misbehaving moneyed class” have not just sold millions of copies; they’ve also given rise to a cottage industry of tours. Fans now travel to the tony vacation destination eager to experience its distinctive brand of New England coastal charm for themselves. This summer, many had the chance to meet Hilderbrand in person at a book party she hosted at Cisco Brewers. The beloved combo brewery, winery and distillery is as famous as Hilderbrand is, at least locally. And its CEO, Jay Harman, is another unofficial ambassador for the island. He’s a bon vivant who seems to know everyone, everywhere he goes—but mostly, they come to him.

Cisco Brewers is so popular, in part, because it’s so many things. It’s a place to see live music, fuel up at food trucks, and sample some of the world’s best whiskey, which, yes, is made here—though the beer seems to get all the attention. In case that wasn’t enough on his plate, Harman recently branched out into vacation rentals with Cisco Surf Suites. The colorful apartment-style accommodations in the center of town are perfect for families or groups of friends.

Harman told COOL HUNTING it’s “the perfect property” to round out his portfolio because he wanted a convenient location “where guests can enjoy direct access to all that downtown Nantucket has to offer.” He offered up a jam-packed weekend itinerary ideal for first-timers and returning visitors alike.

Lemon Press

Everyone on Nantucket wants to start their day at Lemon Press, and for good reason, so make reservations accordingly. The cheerful and always-buzzing restaurant uses plenty of locally farmed produce in its inventive, Middle Eastern-influenced menu. This author’s party ordered orange blossom waffles for the table, but they were largely ignored in favor of a savory standout: the Persian breakfast pita stuffed with duck confit hash, feta cheese and date chutney. Dates were also a welcome addition to the delicious and dramatic-looking black “Blind Date” smoothie with bananas, tahini and activated charcoal. 

Nantucket Mermaids

Nantucket Mermaids began as a boat cleaning service decades ago; now, owner Leah Collins is the proud operator of Nantucket’s largest fleet of yacht charters. Friendly staff will help make sure your experience is luxurious and relaxing, whether you’re looking to island-hop or drink champagne while enjoying a glittering sunset. 

Millie’s 

If boats aren’t in the budget or bikes are simply more your speed (or you want to do it all), pick them up at Cook’s Cycles and take the scenic route to Madaket Beach. There, you’ll find Millie’s, an elevated beachside restaurant, where you can refuel with fried shrimp po’boys and lobster rolls. 

Cisco Brewers

Ask for the shortcut to take you from Millie’s to Cisco Brewers and feel smug about everyone else navigating traffic to get there. Cisco is where you want to be on a weekend evening, dancing to live music in the fresh air while nursing your choice of local bevvies. Sure, the Whale’s Tale Pale Ale has a cult following. But it’s a shame more people don’t know that Notch Whisky is distilled on premises, too—now that’s the really good stuff. 

Brotherhood of Thieves

Known colloquially as “Brotherhood,” the historic whaling bar and tavern dating back to the 1840s is a crowd-pleasing choice for dinner groups. There’s something for everyone on the menu, but don’t miss the creative sushi rolls highlighting local fish—or check out the pub-style menu at the beer garden outside. 

The Chicken Box

Whether you’re a resident or visitor, young or old, everyone ends the night at The Chicken Box in search of cheap(ish) drinks and a bumping dance floor. It might be a local band that has the crowd on its feet, or a big name passing through. Either way, it’s the perfect place to make sure you have stories to tell at brunch the next morning.

Galley Beach

Pretty tables are parked directly in the sand at Galley Beach under a sweeping muslin tent. It’s been a Nantucket landmark for a century and yet the menu is fresher than ever; we loved the clam chowder and a perfect lobster omelet with tarragon and creme fraiche. After brunch, guests need only move a few feet farther into the sand for a coveted perch under chic beach umbrellas. A dip in the Nantucket Sound is the best hangover cure—but if it fails you, servers are more than happy to supply you with a little hair of the dog. 

Cru

Cru bills itself as Nantucket’s premier oyster bar, and among stiff competition it may just be true. Getting a waterfront reservation here is a flex worthy of a special occasion. Local littlenecks are tiny and sweet, while the oyster selection is wide-ranging. We also loved the lobster fettuccine and New York strip steak with crunchy bronzed duck fat fries. By the time we were finished with dinner, a flock of fabulously dressed individuals had arrived to dance on the bar.

A curving concrete canopy and a public garden animate Carcavelos Health Complex near Lisbon, Portugal, completed by local practices Simão Botlelho, Studio-J and Duoma.

Carcavelos Health Complex combines four separate health services in a single building and was the result of a public architecture competition held in 2018.

Its sloping site is bordered by residential buildings and a main road, which led Simão Botlelho, Studio-J and Duoma to design an orthogonal concrete structure that acts as a sound and privacy buffer for a multi-level central garden.

This garden includes a cafe, a children’s playground, a covered area for outdoor meetings and events and community vegetable gardens, designed for both users of the building and the general public.

“We used the building briefing as an excuse to give back to the local inhabitants and the city a qualified piece of man-made nature that can inspire the building’s users,” the team told Dezeen.

“These [gardens] can be used for leisure as well as for social prescribing by doctors, responding to non-medical needs by linking health services and community resources to promote health and wellbeing,” the team continued.

“More than designing a building itself, we believe we designed a garden for the city.”

The Family Health Unit and Shared Resources Unit have been positioned on the ground floor to have the closest link to the public garden.

A first-floor block to the east contains the Psychiatry Service and, where the site slopes downwards, the Drug Addiction Treatment Team has been positioned on a lower level.

A central corridor connects each of these facilities across the U-shaped plan, with rooms on either side divided by plasterboard walls to allow for future adaptations to be made easily.

The rectangular blocks of the Carcavelos Health Complex are contrasted by the curving forms of its roofs, which are supported by cylindrical concrete columns and lined with slender steel balustrades.

Inside, exposed concrete circulation areas lead to bright white treatment areas and stone-tiled bathrooms illuminated by circular skylights.

“The building’s raw appearance contrasts with the garden’s greenery and the bright indoor atmosphere,” said the project team.

“There is a bit of design freedom from Japan mixed with a modernist tropical Brazilian way of construction and a very rigorous mathematical Swiss approach on the facade metric design,” it added.

Carcavelos Health Complex is topped by a green roof, which is overlooked from the small circular terrace of the centre’s upper storey.

Other health centres recently featured on Dezeen include a colourful foyer for the Can Zariquiey complex in Catalonia and a clinic in Salzburg formed of textured red concrete.

The photography is by Francisco Nogueira.

The post “Garden for the city” forms heart of health centre in Carcavelos appeared first on Dezeen.