Dec 19

Heatherwick Studio arranges "unexpected three-dimensional urban landscape" around tree-like park

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Xi'an Centre Culture Business District by Heatherwick Studio

Architecture practice Heatherwick Studio has completed a commercial district in Xi’an, China, containing a series of cascading volumes and a vertical park.

Located south of the city’s historic centre, the Xi’an Centre Culture Business District is characterised by ceramic tiles chosen by Heatherwick Studio to honour the city’s craftsmanship and ceramics.

Encompassing 155,000-square-metres, the district comprises a retail podium, along with offices, apartments and public spaces including green areas, plazas and terraces.

Vertical park within Xi'an Centre Culture Business District
Heatherwick studio has completed a district in Xi’an

“Here in Xi’an, we were excited to create a commercial district which gave the city an extraordinary new piece of public space,” Heatherwick said.

“Instead of simply making different buildings, and paving and planting the spaces between them, there was the opportunity to craft an unexpected three-dimensional urban landscape on many levels, where citizens of the city can promenade and meet each other,” he continued.

“The goal of the whole project was to find a joyful and contemporary way to respond to the history of Xi’an, and bring people together.”

View of cascading gardens within district by Heatherwick Studio
Ceramic tiles were used to clad the cascading volumes

A network of streets link to a large central plaza, where the Xi’an Tree vertical park serves as a gathering point for visitors.

Rising 57-metres from its basement level, the tree contains 56 stepped terraces or “elevated petals”, which are connected to central staircase.

Gardens hosted on each terrace werre designed mimic the biomes of the ancient Silk Road.

Surrounding the central plaza are a series of interconnected volumes unified by tile-clad exteriors and cascading rooftops informed by the roofs of the city’s temples.

More than 100,000 tiles crafted by local makers were used for cladding the facade, columns and beams of the structures to create a “sensory experience” at ground level.

“Pursuing our interest in people’s human scale experience of places, we also had the chance to integrate many special constructional details, to help make the project as engaging as possible for people to walk around,” Heatherwick said.

View of rooftop garden at Xi'an Centre Culture Business District
Rooftop gardens are on top of the volumes

Inside, the volumes have similarly stepped details integrated into the design, and are fronted with large glazed openings overlooking the central plaza.

Additional spaces include lush rooftop gardens hosted atop the volumes, which are interspersed with variously-shaped skylights that draw light into the spaces below.

Interior view of volume within Xi'an Centre Culture Business District by Heatherwick Studio
Glazed openings overlook the central plaza

Elsewhere, Heatherwick Studio is set to complete the Hanwha Galleria shopping centre and a public park with “floating islets” in Seoul.

The photography is by Qingyan Zhu.

The post Heatherwick Studio arranges “unexpected three-dimensional urban landscape” around tree-like park appeared first on Dezeen.

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Dec 19

Morag Myerscough creates neon Love and Unity sculpture in Doncaster Minster

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Neon installation inside Doncaster Church

Designer Morag Myerscough has created an 11.5-metre-tall neon sculpture for a church in Doncaster, UK, which was informed by the “culture of embroidery and tapestry in religious buildings”.

The light installation, which was made from wood painted in bright neon hues, marked the first time Myerscough had mixed her own fluorescent hues.

Love and Unity installation inside Doncaster Minster
The installation sat at the centre of Doncaster Minster

“Often I incorporate fluorescent neon paint within my work so the piece transitions from day to night,” Myerscough told Dezeen. “As this was a light piece it was a perfect piece to paint the whole of it out of fluorescent neon water-based paint.”

“This was the first time I mixed my own fluorescent neon colours, which worked really well. The piece was then lit by black light onto the work so no lights were required on the structure.”

Colourful abstract sculpture in Doncaster Minster
Its shape was informed by needlepoint design and words

Myerscough was informed by Doncaster Minster’s needlepoint prayer kneelers for Love and Unity, which was made for Doncaster’s Festival of Light in November and assembled on-site.

“I was inspired by the culture of embroidery and tapestry in religious buildings, by [textile artists] Edith John and my mother, Betty Fraser Myerscough,” she explained.

“So I decided to reignite my love of sewing and started sewing this piece with no particular plan throughout the summer.”

Interior of Love and Unity
Poems from the community decorate the interior

It was this textile design that influenced the shape of the final sculpture, which had an angular abstract form.

“I started with a pattern and then sewed the word LOVE,” Myerscough said.

“Originally I sewed the piece horizontally and then I turned it round and realised that was a beacon of LOVE and UNITY and went from them. I then proceeded to build it in three dimensions.”

Love and Unity also featured an interactive aspect, with the community invited to write a collective poem, lines from which were then stitched onto the wooden structure and displayed inside the sculpture.

“The Doncaster Festival of Light is free for the Doncaster community and I wanted to make a work that the community felt part of and it was to belong to them,” Myerscough said.

“The best way of achieving this is for people to be involved in the process. We asked the community to respond to ‘Love & Unity’ in words and poems which were incorporated into the sewn element of the structure.”

Stitchwork on sculpture by Morag Myerscough
Stitchwork was left visible on the sculpture

The installation was also Myerscough’s first installation in a religious building.

“This is the first time I have built a piece in a religious building and it is the tallest piece I have built inside,” she said. “I have always loved and visited religious buildings as they always have a unique atmosphere.”

“Doncaster Minster is incredible architecturally and it did feel a privilege to make a piece for the building,” she continued.

Neon sculpture in Doncaster Minster church
The installation was made for Doncaster’s Festival of Light

Love and Unity also featured a custom soundscape made by Doncaster artist Doya Beardmore, which drew from sessions with students from the local Ridgewood School and archival recordings of Myerscough’s father, musician Henry Myerscough.

The sculpture was created for community arts programme Right Up Our Street, which will now reuse the materials after the installation closed.

Other recent designs by Myerscough include a “secret garden” for Sheffield Children’s Hospital and a kinetic installation for the Coachella festival 2024.

The photography is by Gareth Gardner.

Love and Unity was shown at Doncaster Minster as part of the Doncaster Festival of Light on 15 to 23 November. See Dezeen Events Guide for more architecture and design events around the world.

The post Morag Myerscough creates neon Love and Unity sculpture in Doncaster Minster appeared first on Dezeen.

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Dec 19

Dezeen video profiles hanok-inspired Muuun Hotel in partnership with Kia

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Kia car outside Muuun hotel in South Korea

Muuun Hotel is the latest building to feature in Dezeen and Kia‘s video series highlighting contemporary South Korean architecture.

Dezeen teamed up with the Korean car brand to create a video reel showcasing the hotel alongside Kia‘s EV3 car model.

Dezeen video profiles hanok-inspired Muuun Hotel

Designed by local architecture studios Nomal and Onjium Housing Studio, the Muuun hotel draws from traditional Korean hanok housing, which is characterised by the use of wood and natural elements.

Nomal and Onjium Housing Studio wanted to re-interpret the hanok vernacular by blending contemporary and historic elements.

Interior of Muuun Hotel living space
The interiors combine Korean and Western elements. Photography by Choi Yong Joon

The hotel is made up of two buildings on one site, which are arranged in an L-shaped formation. An open courtyard connects the two volumes.

Each suite makes use of openings to let in natural light and to give residents views over a private garden.

Muuun Hotel is located in Gyeongu, a coastal city in the south of the country, with the materials used picked to reference the surrounding environment.

Traditional paper sliding doors were updated with hemp cloth, intending to reference the mist of the nearby Samreung forest, while clay plaster and bean oil linoleum were used for the flooring throughout.

Dark wood and a muted colour palette dominate, with rooms featuring a mix of traditional low-slung Korean furniture, alongside Western-style design pieces.

Kia EV3 car situated in mountain landscape
The EV3 follows on from Kia’s previous models the EV6 and EV9

Dezeen’s collaborative video series with Kia situates the Kia Design Team’s electric car models alongside examples of contemporary South Korean architecture.

Dezeen paired Muuun Hotel with Kia’s EV3, an all-electric compact SUV, which features in the video alongside the building.

The Kia EV3 sports a minimal compact appearance at its front and rear, with headlights that emerge from vertical slits and linear tail lights.

Kia EV3 car situated near Muuun Hotel
The Kia EV3 is an all-electric compact SUV which sports a minimal appearance at its front and rear

The minimal design extends into the car’s interior, which prioritises cabin space, whilst keeping an agile overall silhouette to the vehicle. The car’s 19 inch wheels are patterned with geometric patterns and graphics.

In the first instalment of the series, Dezeen profiled the Sayuwon arboretum and architecture park in Daegu, South Korea.

Partnership content

This video series was produced by Dezeen in partnership with Kia. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

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Dec 19

Form(LA) hides stone furniture showroom behind marble pivot door

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Form(LA) flagship store interior by Jordan Mosslar

Custom stone furnituremaker Form(LA) has opened the doors of its first flagship store in Los Angeles – specifically a pivoting marble door punctuated by nine porthole windows.

The 5,500-square-foot (510-square-metre) store is housed in a West Hollywood building that is nearly a century old.

Marble pivot door at FORM(LA)
Form(LA) has opened its first flagship store. Photo by Tristan Kallas

Form(LA) founder Jordan Mosslar first started the “long and meticulous” process of designing and converting the space into a showroom back in March 2022.

“Because we were renovating a large, 90-year-old building, there were many unexpected surprises that required us to adjust our original plans and re-design elements on the fly,” he told Dezeen.

Interiors of FORM(LA) flagship by Jordan Mosslar
Founder Jordan Mosslar designed the interior

The store’s interior scheme was influenced by modern Italian design, with warm textures and a playful feel.

In line with the atelier’s expertise in natural stone, almost all of the surfaces are covered in different varieties of the material.

Desk setup in stone furniture showroom in LA
The showroom displays examples of Form(LA)’s stone furniture

“I have incorporated natural stone into all of the architectural elements of the space including the flooring, walls, archways and even a Calacatta Viola pivot entry door,” explained Mosslar.

Two slabs of Calacutta Viola marble were bonded to metal sheets and set into a metal frame to create the door.

The door is the first thing visitors see as they approach the showroom, providing glimpses into the interior via nine porthole windows with tesselated glazing.

Inside the showroom, the doors leading into the model bathroom and kitchen – where some of the brand’s unreleased products are displayed – mirror the punctured design of the entrance.

Dining setup in FORM(LA) flagship by Jordan Mosslar
Pendant lights designed by Studio Tristan Kallas hang over the products

This pattern of round openings is also repeated on a pair of lampshades that hang from the ceiling.

Sculptor Tristan Kallas was commissioned to craft sculptural lights that hang directly above the dining tables on display. The pendants were made from plaster to resemble draped fabric.

Fireplace in stoneware showroom in LA
Almost every surface is clad in stone

Meanwhile, the walls are dotted with custom-made paintings by local abstract artist Ali Enache.

Mosslar founded Form(LA) intending to streamline the process behind designing and procuring bespoke stone furniture, which he says can be “notoriously difficult”.

Marble pivot door at FORM(LA)
The entry door is clad in Calacatta marble. Photo by Tristan Kallas

Elsewhere in North America, Canadian studio Perron has revamped a 20th-century building in Québec City to house its studio and showroom and New York-based practice ANY has designed the first physical retail space for streetwear brand Vowels in Manhattan.

The photography is by Clement Pascal with styling by Lisa Rowe, unless stated otherwise.

The post Form(LA) hides stone furniture showroom behind marble pivot door appeared first on Dezeen.

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Dec 19

The Ultimate Grip-Stand For Mobile Content Creation with Built-in Cooling, SSD, and a Ring Light

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Ever seen one of those Shot On iPhone ads? Look at the bottom corner and you’ll find a disclaimer that reads “additional equipment used”, implying that the iPhone wasn’t the only piece of gear used to take photos or videos. Usually, the iPhone has an entire family of products with it, including a stabilizer, an extra mic, an extra light (or multiple lights), attached storage, an external battery, and even a heat sink or cooler to keep the iPhone cool as it records. This rig is often massive, overshadowing the iPhone itself, but the MagCool OmniGrip condenses that entire setup to something small enough to fit in your hand.

Designed to become the epicenter of your recording setup, the MagCool OmniGrip is a tiny, handheld grip that holds your phone while you record content. However, it isn’t just a handle or a ‘selfie stick’ – it also has a built-in SSD for storing content, an aux-in for connecting external mics, a ring light that provides a much more professional-looking lighting setup than your iPhone’s flashlight, and even a semiconductor-based cooling rig that keeps your Pro iPhone breezy even while recording 4K ProRes video at 120 frames per second. If all that wasn’t enough, a 6000mAh battery keeps your iPhone charged through the entire shoot.

Designer:  JSAUX TEAM

Click Here to Buy Now: $69.99 $89.99 (22% off). Hurry, only a few left!

Your phone is truly a multifunctional device – it’s a computer, a camera, a connectivity device, an entertainment gizmo, but being a jack of all trades often involves a few trade-offs. For content creators, those trade-offs come in the form of not having enough battery, or enough storage, or a good microphone. Your phone’s multifunctional, but the minute you add a rig to it, you realize that your rig isn’t multifunctional. It’s a combination of multiple small things, cluttering your entire video-recording workflow – the MagCool OmniGrip hopes to change that.

The singular, foldable device has everything you’d need to effectively record video without worrying about your phone’s inherent limitations. It comes with a MagSafe grip that lets you reliably snap your phone in place so you’re ready to record in seconds. Connect your phone to the OmniGrip and important controls are right at your fingertip, from a central button to start-end recordings to two more buttons on the side that toggle the semiconductor cooling system, or the OmniGrip’s LED ring-light.

The semiconductor cooling system is heaven-sent when recording in high-resolution video. The latest iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max can output 4K at a stunning 120fps, which is sure to cause the device to heat up within just a few sustained minutes of recording. Hitting the cooling button on the OmniGrip powers the semiconductor which instantly pulls all the heat away from your iPhone, cooling it down by a handful of degrees much more efficiently than a simple fan or heat sink would.

Aside from heating your phone, recording in 4K ProRes also severely strains your device’s onboard storage. 4K video is incredibly heavy, and one single podcast episode or lengthy Reel or TikTok can consume gigabytes of space – which is where the OmniGrip’s built-in SSD comes in super handy. With a dedicated slot to house an M.2 SSD right within the OmniGrip’s handle, your iPhone rig now becomes your personal external drive, allowing you to store all your video footage onto the SSD. Connect your iPhone to the MagCool OmniGrip via USB-C and you can now transfer all your video files at speeds of 10Gb/s, editing them either directly on your phone or carrying them to a laptop/desktop to post-process your videos.

To aid your professional video workflow, the OmniGrip comes with an aux input for external microphones, and a dedicated ring-light that can be toggled via a button on the OmniGrip’s handle. The external microphone lets you record high-fidelity audio (perfect for vlogs, podcasts, or music sessions), while the ring light gives you warm, neutral, or cool light options for your shoot. The light’s dedicated button lets you quickly toggle through different temperatures to match your video’s needs.

Finally, a built-in 6000mAh battery powers both the OmniGrip as well as your phone. With up to 2.5 hours of continuous use, it’s designed to match the demands of prolonged shoots or live-streaming sessions. Whether you’re live-streaming, vlogging, or working on a longer project, this level of reliability eliminates the need for constant recharges or backup batteries. The foldable design of the handle only adds to its portability, making it easy to pack and carry. If you need to go bigger, the base of the handle also has a tripod mount, allowing you to hook a tripod to your OmniGrip for a more stable setup.

JSAUX, the company behind the OmniGrip, isn’t new to this game. They’ve made everything from monitors to multiport dongles, with the MagCool OmniGrip being their first creator-centric device to streamline the content-filming process. The result is a device that borrows from all of JSAUX’s previous products, combining cooling, data storage, device management, and power back-up all in a product that’s foldable, portable, and small enough to slip right into your pocket or your bag, so your entire video rig is just about as tiny and as portable as your powerful 4K recording device – your smartphone. It powers the cooling fan and the SSD, but it cannot be used to charge phones.

Each MagCool OmniGrip ships with the foldable device itself, which houses the semiconductor cooling system, the ring-light, and the 6000mAh battery. The device has an SSD slot but you’ll have to mount your own M.2 SSD in, giving you the freedom to choose what storage capacity you want. Note that the M.2 SSD slot supports up to 1TB capacity. The OmniGrip also comes with a USB-C connector cable, a MagSafe magnet ring sticker, mounts for clipping on your external microphone, and a drawstring pouch to carry everything in. The MagCool OmniGrip has a 12-month warranty.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69.99 $89.99 (22% off). Hurry, only a few left!

The post The Ultimate Grip-Stand For Mobile Content Creation with Built-in Cooling, SSD, and a Ring Light first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Dec 19

The Dubai Walk Master Plan Will Make Dubai A Walkable & Pedestrian-Friendly City

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Dubai isn’t a walkable city, the scorching heat makes it almost impossible to tread through during the day. However, it will be possible to stroll through Dubai very soon, with the launch of a project called Dubai Walk. This will be an extensive network of walkways, including raised and air-conditioned footpaths. The plan is still in the early phase, but it will include 4,000 miles of walkways throughout Dubai. Around 1,430 miles of this will include rehabilitated existing pathways.

“His Highness also reviewed ‘The Future Loop’ project which will be implemented at the Museum of the Future area,” said the press release from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. “This iconic elevated walkway, spanning 2 km [1.2 miles] with a width ranging from 6 to 15 meters [20 to 50 ft], seamlessly connects key landmarks, including the Dubai World Trade Centre, Museum of the Future, Emirates Towers, Dubai International Financial Centre, and nearby metro stations.

“His Highness then viewed the model of ‘The Future Loop,’ highlighting its connection to 10 key locations, a 30,000-square-meter [322,000-sq-ft] air-conditioned level for year-round walking, and an additional 30,000 square meters [322,000 sq ft] of shaded, green open spaces. The project, which will include commercial spaces, is set to be developed through a public-private partnership.”

The project will include 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses to enhance connectivity. This will increase pedestrian mobility from 13% to 25% in 2040. It will contain scenic walkways, waterfront paths, city walkways, and rural and mountain trails. It will also link major landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and the Museum of the Future via an elevated walkway called the Future Loop. This walkway will be equipped with air-conditioning to ensure people walk through the year. It is a massive project and will take a while to complete. The pilot phase will last run from 2025-2027, and it will be fully completed in 2040.

The post The Dubai Walk Master Plan Will Make Dubai A Walkable & Pedestrian-Friendly City first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Dec 19

10 Best Minimalist Japanese Design Gifts to Enhance your Daily Life

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In a world that often feels chaotic, minimalist Japanese design offers a refreshing antidote—thoughtfully crafted objects that simplify, inspire, and bring a sense of peace to daily life. From timeless tools to innovative décor, these gifts transcend functionality to create experiences that delight and enrich. Whether you’re celebrating a loved one or indulging yourself, this curated selection highlights the art of thoughtful giving.

1. Heritage Craft Unboxing Knife

Why is it noteworthy?

Inspired by Paleolithic hand axes, this precision-milled aluminum knife transforms unboxing into an artful ritual. Its wave-like patterns offer a secure grip and striking design, while its tapered form adds ergonomic ease. Both functional and sculptural, this knife is a desk-worthy display of craftsmanship.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

Perfect for design aficionados, this knife turns the mundane act of unboxing into a sophisticated and stylish experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Unique, heritage-inspired design.
  • Durable, precision-milled aluminum construction.
  • Ergonomic and visually striking.

What we dislike:

  • Not suited for heavy-duty cutting.

2. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser

Why is it noteworthy?

Take a breath of relaxation, knowing this diffuser turns a single candle’s warmth into a gentle breeze of aromatic oils. Its minimalist design marries poetic beauty with eco-conscious innovation, creating a calming centerpiece for your space. Crafted with circular materials, this cordless diffuser is not just a tool—it’s a quiet celebration of nature’s simplicity and elegance.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

A delightful choice for eco-conscious friends or anyone who finds joy in sensory indulgence, this diffuser transforms ordinary moments into tranquil escapes.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Mesmerizing fan adds a touch of poetry.
  • Completely battery-free and eco-friendly.
  • Lightweight and easy to move around.

What we dislike:

  • Requires supervision due to the open flame.

3. Japanese Lantern Candle

Why is it noteworthy?

This is no ordinary candle—it’s a story in light. As the inner wax melts, it reveals a glowing Chouchin lantern, a timeless symbol of warmth and guidance in Japanese culture. Patented wax technology ensures the shell stays intact, casting a mesmerizing glow without mess. With a 70-hour burn time, this piece brings lasting elegance to your space while bridging tradition and innovation.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

Perfect for those who value meaningful rituals, this candle offers more than light—it’s a transformative experience steeped in heritage.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Transforms into a radiant Chouchin lantern.
  • Mess-free design with no dripping wax.
  • Long-lasting burn time ensures enduring beauty.

What we dislike:

  • Requires careful placement on a heat-safe surface.

4. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter

Why is it noteworthy?

Slicing through envelopes has never looked so sophisticated. This standing letter cutter is precision-crafted to deliver clean cuts without mess while doubling as an artful desk accessory. Its sculptural form is as functional as it is beautiful, making everyday tasks feel elevated.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

For professionals or design enthusiasts, this letter cutter adds understated elegance to their workspace, turning mail-opening into a moment of quiet refinement.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Precision cutting ensures no paper scraps.
  • Minimalist design complements modern desks.
  • Durable build for lasting performance.

What we dislike:

  • Best suited for standard envelope sizes.

5. Bookish Bookmark

Why is it noteworthy?

Turn the page on clunky solutions with this hands-free bookmark that doubles as a transparent page-holder. Designed to protect your book’s spine, it lets you enjoy your favorite read while multitasking or simply relaxing. Its curved, lightweight design adds elegance and functionality to any book-lover’s toolkit.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

An ideal present for avid readers, this bookmark is the perfect blend of practicality and sophistication, making reading even more enjoyable.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Keeps books open hands-free without damaging them.
  • Compact, lightweight, and easy to carry.
  • Sleek design blends function with style.

What we dislike:

  • May not be ideal for extra-large books.

6. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Why is it noteworthy?

Bring the soothing charm of the outdoors into your home with this whimsical miniature bonfire diffuser. It gently releases aromatic oils, evoking the scent of mountain forests. Beyond its function as a diffuser, its charming design serves as a visual centerpiece and even supports light indoor cooking, making it a versatile and creative addition to any space.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

Perfect for nature lovers and décor enthusiasts, this diffuser adds warmth, charm, and practicality to any indoor setting.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Captivating design doubles as décor.
  • Gently diffuses oils with a natural aesthetic.
  • Functional for light cooking, adding versatility.

What we dislike:

  • Requires careful cleaning to avoid spills or stains.

7. Portable CD Cover Player

Why is it noteworthy?

Rediscover the joy of music with this unique CD player that highlights both sound and visual art. The device not only plays your favorite albums but also showcases CD jacket art, blending tactile beauty with auditory pleasure. Its portable, wall-mountable design lets you enjoy music anywhere while celebrating the artistry of physical media.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

A nostalgic and modern treasure for music lovers, this player combines functionality with an artistic display of album covers.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Displays album art for a complete sensory experience.
  • Built-in speaker ensures effortless portability.
  • Wall-mountable for versatile use.

What we dislike:

  • Limited to physical CDs, which may not suit everyone.

8. Rin Harmony Incense Holder

Why is it noteworthy?

Elevate your incense rituals with this portable holder crafted from natural walnut wood and brass. The wooden box stores incense sticks, while the brass plate ensures safe burning and mess-free ash containment. Compact and elegant, it transforms any space into a sanctuary of calm.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

For anyone seeking moments of serenity, this incense holder is a practical and stylish way to create a tranquil atmosphere.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Combines storage and functionality in a sleek form.
  • Made from premium, sustainable materials.
  • Keeps ashes contained for a mess-free experience.

What we dislike:

  • Designed for smaller incense sticks only.

9. Pop-up Book Vase

Why is it noteworthy?

Turn your floral arrangements into works of art with this enchanting pop-up book vase. Each page reveals a new 3D vase design, allowing for creative displays that transform any space. Lightweight and easy to store, this whimsical piece brings storytelling and floral décor together beautifully.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

For creative souls and flower lovers, this vase offers a playful and unique way to brighten their home with elegance and charm.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Creative, foldable 3D design.
  • Multiple vase options for fresh displays.
  • Lightweight and compact for easy use.

What we dislike:

  • Works best with smaller floral arrangements.

10. Kintsugi Plain Notebook

Why is it noteworthy?

Inspired by the Japanese art of repairing with gold, this notebook celebrates imperfection and resilience. Its fingerprint-resistant cover and smooth, eco-friendly bagasse paper provide a refined writing experience. Compact yet versatile, it’s perfect for capturing thoughts or sketching ideas with a philosophy that inspires creativity.

Why it makes a thoughtful gift:

A meaningful gift for writers or dreamers, this notebook embodies both sustainability and a celebration of life’s imperfections.

Click Here to Buy Now: $29. 10% off at checkout—our Xmas sale ends in just 48 hours. Don’t wait!

What we like:

  • Inspiring design rooted in Kintsugi philosophy.
  • Smooth, eco-friendly paper enhances creativity.
  • Durable cover resists wear for lasting use.

What we dislike:

  • Plain pages may not appeal to those who prefer ruled layouts.

Conclusion

Minimalist Japanese design embodies more than just aesthetics—it’s a way of life that simplifies and enriches daily routines. These ten thoughtfully crafted gifts merge function with artistry, offering experiences that delight, inspire, and bring a touch of elegance to every moment. Whether for a loved one or yourself, these pieces are timeless additions to a world that craves simplicity.

The post 10 Best Minimalist Japanese Design Gifts to Enhance your Daily Life first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Dec 19

WESN Ridgeback Microblade: An Absurdly Compact EDC Knife That Does The Job Well

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Everyday Carry (EDC) enthusiasts are often drawn to extremes—gear that’s either hyper-functional and minimalist or unapologetically rugged and overbuilt. Somewhere between those poles, there’s a sweet spot where design meets practicality, where tools feel like natural extensions of the user rather than cumbersome additions. WESN’s Ridgeback Microblade plants itself firmly in that middle ground, a knife that doesn’t scream for attention but quietly earns it through thoughtful details and rock-solid construction. It’s small enough to live unnoticed in a pocket, yet capable enough to stand out when you put it to work.

But here’s the thing: knives this compact often fall into one of two camps—purely utilitarian or borderline decorative. The Ridgeback, however, avoids that trap. It balances an aesthetic rooted in the wilderness with materials and build quality that cater to actual, everyday use. It’s a knife for people who appreciate subtle craftsmanship and know that sometimes the smallest tools are the ones you reach for the most. The Ridgeback isn’t just a product—it’s a reflection of WESN’s ability to build gear that feels like it belongs, no matter where life takes you.

Designer: WESN

Crafted with materials that reflect its dual nature, the knife pairs a gorgeous hammered titanium front handle with a smooth titanium back scale. This combination represents both the raw textures of the outdoors and the polished surfaces of urban life, creating a visual dichotomy that you can’t stop admiring. At 3.75 inches open and just 2.25 inches closed, its compact design invites you to carry it anywhere without hesitation. A yellow thumb stud and matching lanyard bead punctuate the muted titanium tones, a detail that feels as intentional as it is functional, ensuring the knife remains visible in dim environments.

Despite its size, the Ridgeback packs serious cutting power. The 1.5-inch blade is forged from M390 steel, a high-end material prized for its durability and edge retention. This steel can stand up to demanding use, whether you’re tackling minor outdoor tasks or mundane chores like opening stubborn packages. The precision machining is matched by a frame-lock mechanism, a feature that ensures the blade stays securely in place during use.

Unlike many microblades, the Ridgeback prioritizes grip and handling. Its ergonomic shape feels surprisingly comfortable, and the textured front surface adds security, even when conditions get slippery. That index finger cutout firmly wraps around your finger, ensuring the blade doesn’t ever slip out of your grasp.

At just 500 units, WESN intends to make the Ridgeback feel as exclusive as it looks. One could argue that forging a hammered titanium handle is a major task in itself, but it’s WESN we’re talking about. The limited-edition run isn’t a feasibility decision, it’s purely because this knife is a work of art, not a commercial EDC tool for the masses. For collectors, the knife offers a rare opportunity to own something unique, while EDC enthusiasts will appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship and premium feel.

At $150, the Ridgeback Microblade sits firmly in the premium category, although for an all-metal knife with a titanium handle, it’s well worth the price. Available through WESN’s website, it’s a knife that will likely disappear quickly from shelves, especially given its appeal to both collectors and those seeking a distinctive yet practical EDC blade.

A good knife doesn’t need to announce itself, and the Ridgeback exemplifies this philosophy. Compact, reliable, and beautifully designed, it’s a piece that feels as at home slicing through an apple as it does in a display case. But with only 500 out there, you might want to act before this small wonder is out of reach.

The post WESN Ridgeback Microblade: An Absurdly Compact EDC Knife That Does The Job Well first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Dec 19

Leaked iPhone 17 Pro Redesign Signals Innovative Camera and Internal Enhancements

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Apple appears to be preparing a structural evolution for the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro, and recent leaks suggest a device that may deviate from the well-established design principles of its predecessors. The leaked frame, if authentic, reveals changes to the camera layout and internal component arrangements that move beyond what Apple typically refines in incremental cycles. Instead of holding fast to a familiar cluster of lenses and subtle tweaks, the iPhone 17 Pro might reorganize its rear camera system into a new horizontal orientation. This would depart from the clustered arrangement Apple has preserved for multiple product cycles and indicates that the company is considering a more dramatic shift in how it balances aesthetics, functionality, and internal engineering demands.

Designer: Apple

These changes would serve more than a cosmetic function. Apple’s designers have long prized a harmony between external form and the complex machinery within. A larger, more rectangular aperture on the back panel, implied by the leaked images, could accommodate a next-generation camera array equipped with larger sensors, advanced optics, and possibly a periscope mechanism for enhanced zoom capabilities. The need to maintain a slender profile without sacrificing battery capacity or thermal efficiency likely drives such decisions. Apple’s design team would not rework the camera placement unless it granted tangible benefits, like improved image quality or more balanced internal space distribution. By moving lens modules into a new orientation, Apple might find room for a redesigned battery placement, improved logic board organization, or expanded thermal pathways. This holistic approach helps ensure that each design decision yields functional gains rather than altering the look for its own sake.

Internal architecture often changes when engineers confront the challenge of integrating increasingly complex components into a thin, sleek enclosure. The camera system is more than a set of lenses. It entails image sensors, stabilizers, dedicated processors, and the intricate wiring that ties it all together. Shifting these elements may open up space that can be allocated to larger battery cells or refined antenna placements without inflating the device’s footprint. Every cubic millimeter matters and any improvement in internal component layout can contribute to better battery life, more robust wireless performance, and advanced imaging features. For example, new camera positions could streamline the way signals travel, improve heat dissipation for the chipsets, and allow engineers to position next-generation antennas for faster wireless connectivity without introducing a noticeable external bulge.

Recent changes in the current iPhone generation help explain how Apple values functionality over superficial novelty. With the iPhone 16 lineup, the company integrated a dedicated camera control button beneath the power button. This modification did not occur by happenstance. Apple had to remove one of the mmWave antennas to open space for the new input method. The result still supports efficient 5G performance after engineers repositioned the remaining antenna to maintain network reliability. This kind of trade-off, where a valuable new feature emerges from thoughtful rearrangement of internal parts, underscores Apple’s willingness to rework established designs in service of better usability. The new Camera Control provides photographers and videographers a more immediate connection to the camera’s features while also integrating Apple’s advanced image processing and AI capabilities through a long press. Even these subtle additions require a cascade of internal changes that ripple through the device’s architecture.

Leaked images of iPhone dummies used for case designs

Such structural adjustments highlight Apple’s long-term planning. By the time a new iPhone reaches the market, its architecture and component allocations have been considered for years. Apple’s teams anticipate the arrival of more powerful image processors, emerging wireless standards, and larger camera sensors well before they become final production parts. A casing, the vessel of Apple’s technological ambition, designed to accept a revised camera layout and rearranged antennas, sets the stage for these future technologies. This approach allows Apple to incorporate fresh capabilities without resorting to a complete overhaul every generation. Instead, each adjustment opens new possibilities for refinements in subsequent models, making the device feel forward-thinking while retaining a recognizable identity.

Render from Wylsacom / YouTube

The rumored shift toward a horizontally oriented camera arrangement draws comparisons to how other companies, such as Google with its Pixel line, have approached camera placement. Yet Apple’s motivations differ. While Google’s horizontal camera bar helped establish a distinct brand signature, Apple’s possible pivot seems driven by internal architecture and the demands of the hardware itself. Instead of chasing a new visual trademark, Apple refines the enclosure as necessary to deliver concrete performance gains. Larger sensors, periscope zoom systems, and integrated AR technologies may now fit into a profile that remains comfortable in the hand. Apple has always embraced gradual evolution over arbitrary reinvention, and these moves come when engineering breakthroughs and new component requirements leave no other path forward. The final outcome is a product that might look subtly different but emerges as a logical consequence of meeting technical challenges head-on.

This reimagined layout could also have a direct effect on day-to-day use. Improvements to camera positioning mean that photographers gain more responsive handling, better balance when taking shots in various orientations, and potential optical enhancements. Adjusting internal structure can also free space for innovations that improve battery longevity or heat management, both of which matter as smartphones become essential companions for gaming, creative work, and on-the-go productivity. Apple’s refinement rarely announces itself with loud stylistic flourishes. Instead, changes manifest as more polished interactions, steady performance, and refined ergonomics that feel right when you hold the device.

Render from Wylsacom / YouTube

The leaked frame provides a glimpse into Apple’s quiet pursuit of progress. Integrating advanced camera sensors, improved wireless components, and forward-looking hardware configurations demands careful consideration of how each part interacts with the rest. The final product, if the leaks are accurate, should still look and feel like an Apple device. It will continue to showcase the subtle craftsmanship and logical design evolution the company is known for. The possible camera alignment shift would not be a marketing-driven move but an honest response to the device’s internal demands. The result would be a phone ready to embrace emerging technologies without betraying the balanced design principles that have guided Apple’s products for decades.

If the iPhone 17 Pro arrives with this new structural logic, it’ll stand as a natural step forward in Apple’s approach to industrial design and engineering. By allocating space more intelligently, Apple can unlock camera enhancements, improved wireless connectivity, and better thermal characteristics, ensuring consistent performance during intensive tasks like gaming or video editing, all tucked inside a familiar silhouette. This blend of innovation and restraint helps ensure that each change resonates with a practical purpose. Apple’s philosophy of incremental evolution, carefully layered over time, continues to guide these developments. The next iPhone may feel subtly different, yet still unmistakably Apple.

The post Leaked iPhone 17 Pro Redesign Signals Innovative Camera and Internal Enhancements first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Dec 18

What if your Laptop Bag WAS a Laptop?

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In 2007, Steve Jobs asked a fundamental question, “What if your phone was your computer?”. This philosophy kickstarted one of the most successful industries of our time – the smartphone. Two designers from South Korea are asking a similar question, “What if your laptop bag was your laptop?” It’s fair to point out that those two questions are nowhere near being comparable in terms of their practicality, but what Jung Sunghun & Cho Changhui’s design, the Haru, does is change the way we look at laptops.

The Haru turns the laptop bag into your own portable workstation. The bag features a side-to-side lid that is, in fact, a foldable laptop. Detach the lid, unfold it, and a part of your bag basically becomes your laptop. The bag’s compartment can be used to carry other items like accessories, cables, folders, stationery, or anything else you’d need to set up your portable workstation. It’s wild, bordering on impractical, but the more I try to ignore the ‘boring’ practical concerns, the more I realize what a crazy gadget this would be!

Designers: Jung Sunghun & Cho Changhui

“Haru introduces new possibilities for ‘workation’ by combining the functions of flexible displays with the morphology of bags. Designed for users on the go, Haru provides expandable workspaces that can be easily organised and transported. Its three modes — hanging, compact, and expanded — suit various settings,” say the designers, who won the Red Dot Award: Design Concept for the Haru. The idea is simple and powerful – foldables don’t have much of a direction at the moment… but with the Haru, they do.

Foldable phones have tried for more than 6 years at this point to make their impact. Foldable laptops haven’t even really existed (either because large bending screens are cost-prohibitive or fragile), but the Haru does a fairly good job of giving them a proper application. The idea – your laptop wraps AROUND your bag instead of going inside it. The back is made from faux leather, allowing the laptop (or tablet, rather) to blend into the bag, and the hinge has a fairly wide radius, so no worrying about creases.

If you remember a time not too long ago, Microsoft was working on a single-screen foldable laptop called the Surface Neo. The product got indefinitely delayed before it even launched, and what could have been a fertile testing ground for a perfect proof of concept, remained just a concept. The Haru exists within that conceptual realm, trying to build a case for a large-screen foldable laptop, so that one day the Surface Neo could *maybe* become a reality.

The way you use the Haru is uniquely refreshing. Place your bag on your workspace, un-dock the lid, and open it up to either have yourself a massive wide-screen tablet monitor, or fold it at a cool 60° angle and use it as a laptop with a touchscreen keyboard. The Haru’s strap can be removed from the bag and used as a hanging accessory with the screen while in tablet mode, giving the entire setup a fair bit of versatility. The resulting screen is fairly large too, measuring what I approximate is 24 inches diagonally (if not more)

But alas, one must also address the practical side of a concept too. Aside from the fact that the Haru would be wildly expensive (about as much as a LV or Hermès bag), it also isn’t really worth the cost. The laptop would serve as the outer lid, being fairly vulnerable to bad weather, accidents, or just wear and tear. Unless this thing is built to be extremely robust, a luxury laptop bag (that’s also a laptop) makes little sense. Besides, given how slim it is, you’d have to forego a bunch of ports, fans, and even a proper battery. I still stand by my opinion that this device looks ridiculously cool, and here’s hoping Lenovo or Tecno or TCL ends up building a rough prototype just to show the naysayers at Microsoft how it’s done!

The post What if your Laptop Bag WAS a Laptop? first appeared on Yanko Design.

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