MagSafe Power Bank Has All The Charging Options You Need For Power On The Go

Remember the days when you’d scramble to find different chargers for each of your devices? Those frantic moments of digging through bags for the right cable while your phone battery hovers at 2% are becoming a thing of the past. The latest MagSafe power banks are revolutionizing how we keep our growing collection of tech powered up, with clever designs that accommodate multiple devices simultaneously and eliminate cable clutter that once plagued our backpacks and pockets.

The Ridge Magnetic Power Bank stands out in this increasingly crowded market by offering a truly versatile charging solution that works with virtually any device you might carry. Unlike traditional power banks that require you to bring your own cables or MagSafe options that only work with iPhones, this compact powerhouse combines wireless charging capabilities with built-in cables to create a genuinely all-in-one solution for today’s tech-laden lifestyles.

Designer: Ridge

Most of us now juggle multiple devices throughout our day – smartphones have become extensions of ourselves, smartwatches track our every step, wireless earbuds keep us connected, and tablets provide entertainment on the go. When you’re away from power outlets for extended periods, keeping everything charged becomes a genuine challenge that can disrupt your productivity and connectivity if not properly addressed.

The Ridge power bank tackles this problem with an impressive array of charging options packed into its sleek frame. Its primary function is wireless charging for iPhones at a respectable 15W when magnetically attached to your device’s back. This MagSafe compatibility creates a secure connection that won’t disconnect if jostled in your bag or pocket, ensuring continuous charging even when you’re actively moving around.

What truly sets this power bank apart are the two built-in USB-C cables that eliminate the need to carry separate charging cords. These integrated cables can deliver up to 20W of power, faster than the wireless option, making them perfect for quick top-ups when you’re running low on battery and time. Having these cables permanently attached means you’ll never again face the frustration of forgetting essential charging accessories.

Apple Watch users will appreciate the dedicated charging spot that delivers 2.5W of power to keep your wearable running. While not the fastest charging speed available, it’s perfectly adequate for maintaining battery life throughout a busy day. The 10,000mAh capacity strikes an excellent balance between portability and power, providing enough juice to fully charge most smartphones multiple times before needing to be recharged itself. This generous capacity ensures you can keep all your essential devices powered through weekend trips, long flights, or outdoor adventures without worrying about running out of battery at critical moments.

Beyond its charging capabilities, thoughtful design features enhance the user experience. The integrated kickstand lets you prop up your phone for comfortable video watching or video calls while charging, transforming the power bank from a mere utility into a genuinely useful accessory. Available in vibrant Basecamp Orange, sophisticated Matte Olive, or classic Matte Black, it offers style options to match your personal aesthetic preferences.

The post MagSafe Power Bank Has All The Charging Options You Need For Power On The Go first appeared on Yanko Design.

Futuristic-looking Electric Skateboard Brings Speed, Style, and Sustainability

Electric skateboards have revolutionized urban transportation, but most boards on the market struggle to balance performance with portability. Enter the Parsec Aero Pro, a cutting-edge electric skateboard that’s turning heads with its futuristic design and exceptional engineering. Combining aerospace-grade materials with innovative technology, this lightweight powerhouse delivers thrilling speeds, impressive range, and unmatched durability for riders who demand the best from their boards.

The heart of the Aero Pro’s extraordinary performance lies in its thoughtful design choices that prioritize the real needs of everyday riders. Unlike bulky competitors that sacrifice portability for power, this sleek board weighs just 15.5 pounds in its standard configuration, making it genuinely portable for commuters navigating public transit, office buildings, and urban environments. Despite its featherweight construction, the Aero Pro doesn’t compromise on performance, offering riders a truly premium experience from the moment they step on the deck.

Designer: Parsec

Built around a T800 carbon fiber deck, the Aero Pro showcases materials typically reserved for high-performance aircraft and supercars. This premium carbon fiber isn’t just lightweight – it’s incredibly strong, capable of withstanding nearly 1,750 pounds of force without breaking. The low deck height of just 3.35 inches creates a stable platform that feels secure underfoot while maintaining the responsive handling that experienced riders crave when carving through city streets or cruising along beachfront paths.

Dual Hobbywing 5250 motors mounted at the rear wheels deliver impressive acceleration and a top speed of 27 mph, providing plenty of power for conquering hills and keeping pace with urban traffic. The custom-designed aluminum trucks complement this power with precise handling characteristics, striking the perfect balance between stability at speed and maneuverability in tight spaces. This combination makes the Aero Pro equally comfortable bombing down straightaways and navigating crowded sidewalks with confidence.

Battery options provide flexibility based on your typical riding needs, with the Aero Pro S featuring a 222-Wh Molicel P45B battery delivering a respectable 14-mile range for shorter commutes. For riders needing extended range, the Aero Pro X doubles the capacity with a 444-Wh battery that stretches the riding distance to an impressive 32 miles, enough for a full day of adventures without recharging. Both models benefit from regenerative braking that recaptures energy when slowing down, maximizing efficiency during stop-and-go urban riding.

The innovative EPIC belt-drive system represents a significant advancement over traditional electric skateboard drivetrains. This system ensures smooth acceleration while also allowing for easy coasting when you want to ride unpowered. Perhaps most impressively, the belts can be replaced in just 15 seconds without tools a game-changer for riders who’ve struggled with maintenance on other electric boards. This hybrid approach gives riders the freedom to switch between powered and manual riding depending on their mood or battery status.

Thoughtful design touches enhance the everyday usability of the Aero Pro beyond its core performance specs. The integrated handle makes carrying the board effortless, while the easy-access charging port simplifies the recharging process. The motor mount even helps prop up the board when you need to set it down temporarily. These small but significant features demonstrate the designers’ understanding of how people actually use their boards in real-world situations, not just during perfect riding conditions.

The Parsec Aero Pro represents a quantum leap in electric skateboard evolution, fusing aerospace-grade materials with street-smart design. Its unmatched strength-to-weight ratio, customizable performance, and rider-focused features create an experience that feels revolutionary with every ride. Whether carving through urban landscapes or commuting across campus, this board delivers exceptional performance without sacrificing portability. The Aero Pro isn’t just pushing boundaries, it’s completely redrawing the map for what electric skateboards can achieve.

The post Futuristic-looking Electric Skateboard Brings Speed, Style, and Sustainability first appeared on Yanko Design.

Pro-Crastinator—Does That Sound Like You?

We’ve extended the deadline just for Pro’s like you. Monday is the last day to enter
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Industrial Design Case Study: A Better-Looking Brain-Computer Interface

When you think of technology that connects your brain to a computer, you probably picture something like this:

A startup called Neurable had the technology, but wanted better design for their first product, called Enten. They turned to industrial design consultancy Fresco for help.

Brain interface tech for the everyday

Neurable, a Boston-based startup, teamed with Fresco to design and develop their first product for the consumer market – the Enten headphones. These BCI headphones monitor your brain activity and provide useful information for your daily life, like patterns of when you are focused or distracted.

the client

Neurable is a neurotechnology company that uses Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology to interpret human intent, measure emotion, and provide telekinetic control of the digital world.

services delivered

Design Strategy / Industrial Design / Models & Prototypes / Virtual Photography / Digital Design

“Fresco’s support on the Enten project was invaluable. Their creativity, efficiency, and dependability greatly contributed to the success of the challenging task of integrating BCI into a consumer product. Collaborating with them was easy and fun. We continue to partner with Fresco on new explorations and product development efforts, and can always rely on their consistent delivery of high-quality, high-impact work.” –Jamie Alders, Vice President of Product, Neurable

OUR PROCESS

Designing consumer appeal

When you think of BCI, do you picture intricate monitoring devices, headcaps, and wires? Neurable’s vision aimed to overcome those associations. We designed the BCI headphones to look, appear, and behave like a premium product, tackling numerous design and engineering challenges to seamlessly integrate the technology into a desirable form factor.

Research prototype

Schematic architecture

Early design

Working prototype

Appearance model

Final design

Design for personas

For this novel technology, we began by understanding its application and the anticipated user environments. From user personas, we tailored our design choices in size, shape, material, color, and visual segmentation, considering a dense market of visual trends.

Weaving tech into consumer soft goods

We embarked on an R&D journey to research, design, spec, source, and manufacture selectively conductive 3D knitted fabrics. By experimenting with weave patterns and emphasizing ear comfort, we optimized the design for EEG channel skin contact and internal board connection. The final knit product conformed to 3D ear cushions, ensuring aesthetics, comfort, acoustics, and sensor performance.

Engineering prototypes for testing

Through several engineering prototype iterations, we fine-tuned the integration of BCI technology into the Enten headphones, ensuring manufacturability. Fresco produced both individual and small-batch prototypes for design validation, internal review, and user testing.

Appearance models for funding & design excitement

During the design phase, we built high-craft appearance models for early product photography, marketing campaigns, stakeholder alignment, investor pitches, and to refine color and material selections.

Part design for manufacturing

Fresco provided Neurable with a fully executed and documented industrial design and mechanical engineering blueprint for scaled manufacturing. We assisted Neurable in collaborating with contract manufacturers, verifying their expertise, and evaluating the secondary suppliers involved in the product’s production.

You can see more of Fresco’s work here.

  • Iris tables by Gandia Blasco

    Iris tables by Gandia Blasco

    Dezeen Showroom: artistic colour studies are printed on tempered glass in Gandia Blasco‘s Iris tables, creating a semi-transparent effect reminiscent of stained glass.

    Following a philosophy that the Spanish outdoor brand refers to as “art applied to design”, the Iris series of tables were conceived by the brand’s creative and communication deputy director Alejandra Gandía-Blasco based on her colour studies of sunrises and sunsets.

    Iris tables by Gandia Blasco
    The Iris tables feature prints on vitrified tempered glass

    The images are transferred onto vitrified tempered glass, which not only gives them a deeply pigmented yet ethereal quality, but makes use of a material that is natural and durable.

    “The light on the coast is constantly changing,” said Gandía-Blasco. “Iris serves as a canvas for the infinite shades of colour and varied compositions that I capture in very specific moments depending on the weather at the exact moment that I take the photo.”

    Iris tables by Gandia Blasco
    The prints are colour studies of sunrises and sunsets

    The Iris series includes dining tables, coffee tables and side tables with a few different image and colour choices.

    The circular and square tables are each printed with a single design, while the large rectangular coffee and dining tables feature a grid of 88 sunrises and sunsets arranged like a mosaic, recalling the look of a tiled table.


    Product details:

    Product: Iris tables
    Designer: Alejandra Gandía-Blasco
    Brand: Gandia Blasco
    Contact: prensa@gandiablascogroup.com

    Material: vitrified tempered glass, powder-coated aluminium
    Colours/finishes: black/grey, orange, blue

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    The post Iris tables by Gandia Blasco appeared first on Dezeen.

    Rectangular-Form Flashlights with Perpendicular Lenses

    For manufactured objects, the cylinder is a powerful shape. They distribute pressure evenly, which is why airplane fuselages, soda cans, oxygen canisters and disposable batteries are cylindrical.

    The shape of a disposable battery has long dictated the shape of another object: Flashlights, which have traditionally been little more than a battery sleeve with a light source at the end. But now that battery technology has evolved, flashlight designers are free to imagine fresh forms that are better-shaped for certain user activities. Like this USB-rechargeable Slim+ model from Texas-based manufacturer Nebo.

    The rectangular form and perpendicular lens means you hold it differently than a cylindrical flashlight; this is less for illuminating dark paths, and more for examining engine bays and the like. The slim form fits easily in a pocket and doesn’t roll when you set it down. Furthermore, it features both a magnetic base and a hanging hook for hands-free use. It’s made of aluminum, is water- and dust-resistant, and puts out 700 lumens.

    A slightly larger Slim+ 1200 model puts out more lumens (you can guess the number).

    Both models above also feature laser pointers and can be used as powerbanks. Moving in the other direction, size-wise, the Slim Mini puts out just 250 lumens. It’s way more compact but you lose the pointer and the power bank function.

    They also offer a Slim Mini UV, for those doing inspections.

    The Slim+ runs $45; the Slim+ 1200 is $60; and the Mini versions go for $20.

    10 Best Small Space-Friendly Products To Elevate Your Tiny Home’s Look, Functionality & Efficiency

    Today compact living has become the norm, and finding products that combine functionality with style is essential. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a cramped apartment, a tiny home, or just looking to maximize your existing space – we have curated a collection of ten innovative products offer that smart solutions without sacrificing aesthetics.

    Each product has been carefully selected to help transform your small space into a more organized, efficient, and visually appealing environment. Small-space living doesn’t mean sacrificing style or functionality. These ten products showcase how thoughtful designs can transform limited square footage into an efficient, organized, and visually appealing environment. You can use these products to create a tiny home that feels spacious and personalized, irrespective of its size!

    1. Fire Capsule Oil Lamp

    Called the Fire Capsule Oil Lamp, this product brings the timeless magic of flame lighting into contemporary small spaces with its sleek, cylindrical design inspired by traditional tea canisters. This portable oil lamp combines premium materials such as high-quality aluminum and glass with thoughtful engineering to create a safe, clean-burning light source that enhances any environment with its warm, flickering glow.

    The precision-engineered lid keeps the glass chimney pristine when not in use, while the 80ml capacity provides up to 16 hours of continuous illumination with paraffin oil. It is ideal for small homes as it is quite versatile and portable. It weighs just 180g and features a stackable design which makes it storage efficient, and it can be moved from the bedside table to the dining area or the balcony with ease, eliminating the need for multiple mood lighting options in different rooms.

    Click Here to Buy Now: $89.00

    What we like

    • Creates warm, ambient lighting without requiring electrical outlets or batteries.
    • Multifunctional design with aroma diffusion capabilities eliminates the need for separate products.

    What we dislike

    • Requires purchase of paraffin oil for operation, adding to maintenance costs.
    • Open flame requires careful handling and appropriate placement away from flammable materials.

    2. Invisible Shoehorn

    The Invisible Shoehorn transforms a utilitarian necessity into an elegant product that adds some sophistication to even the smallest entryway. This innovative product features a sleek, polished stainless steel body mounted on a transparent stand that creates the illusion of a floating metallic curve when not in use. The extended length allows users to slip on shoes without bending or straining, which is quite useful in cramped entryways where maneuvering can be tough.

    What makes the product truly unique is its dual-purpose nature. When not in use, it serves as an intriguing home decor element that will add visual appeal to any space. The transparent stand minimizes visual weight, making it ideal for small entryways where space constraint is an issue. This shoehorn is quite beneficial for small homes because it combines two products – a functional tool and a decorative element into one space-saving product.

    Click Here to Buy Now: $299.00

    What we like

    • The elegant design elevates a utilitarian object into an artistic accent piece.
    • The long handle eliminates the need to bend, perfect for tight entryway spaces.

    What we dislike

    • Stainless steel requires occasional polishing to maintain its mirror finish.
    • Higher price point than basic plastic shoehorns.

    3. Anywhere-Use Lamp

    The Anywhere Use Lamp redefines portable lighting with its mushroom-inspired design that brings warmth and character to any corner of your home. This battery-powered table lamp combines simplicity with versatility, making it perfect for small homes where permanent lighting solutions might be impractical or insufficient. Available in classic black and white, plus the new Industrial edition with its deliberately distressed metal base, this lamp offers a touch of personality that works with virtually any décor style.

    What makes this lamp unique is its thoughtful engineering. Six high-color-rendering LEDs provide a soft, warm glow that transforms the atmosphere of any room, while the intuitive edge-press control lets you cycle through four brightness levels with satisfying tactile feedback. The lamp’s modular design means it can be easily disassembled and tucked into a bag, making it ideal for tiny home residents who may move frequently or anyone who needs lighting flexibility throughout their home.

    Click Here to Buy Now: $149.00

    What we like

    • The battery-powered design eliminates cord clutter and allows for placement anywhere.
    • Modular construction makes it easy to store when not in use, saving precious space.

    What we dislike

    • Requires four AA batteries which need occasional replacement.
    • Limited to warm light only, without color temperature adjustment options.

    4. Jewel Vase Mirror Stand

    The Jewel Vase Mirror Stand combines three functions—reflection, display, and floral arrangement—into one striking piece. This innovative product features a uniquely shaped polyhedron mirror attached to a small vessel that can hold water for fresh flowers or serve as a catch-all for small accessories.  Crafted from eco-friendly bioplastic containing rice husks, this piece brings sustainability to your décor while offering a warm, natural finish that will soften up your room.

    For residents of small homes, this piece offers practical benefits since it combines three separate items—a mirror, vase, and jewelry dish, into one compact product. Its tabletop design means you don’t need to sacrifice precious wall space for a mirror. You can simply check out your appearance in the mirror stand, without actually adding a proper mirror to your home.

    Click Here to Buy Now: $59.00

    What we like

    • The multifunctional design eliminates the need for separate mirrors, vases, and accessory storage.
    • The unique shape creates visual interest that enhances even minimal decorative elements.

    What we dislike

    • The limited mirror size makes it suitable for quick checks rather than full-face viewing.
    • Small vase capacity accommodates only single stems or very small arrangements.

    5. Door Chime Tori

    The Door Chime Tori is blessed with a charming bird-inspired design that adds personality to your entryway without requiring any wiring or batteries. This delightful chime produces gentle, melodic sounds reminiscent of birdsong when the door opens or closes, creating a welcoming atmosphere that starts the moment someone enters your home.

    Installation is really simple as a powerful neodymium magnet on the bird’s underside allows it to attach securely to any ferrous metal surface without tools or hardware. The bird’s tail feathers act as the chime, creating a pleasant tinkling sound with the motion of the door. It is an excellent option for small homes as it requires no electrical work or battery changes, and occupies almost no space while adding a decorative element to your doorway.

    Click Here to Buy Now: $59.00

    What we like

    • Tool-free magnetic installation requires no permanent changes to your door.
    • Serves a dual purpose as both a functional chime and a decorative accent.

    What we dislike

    • Only works on doors with ferrous metal surfaces for magnetic attachment.
    • The sound may be too subtle in larger spaces or homes with significant ambient noise.

    6. Portable CD Cover Player

    The Portable CD Cover Player features a transparent pocket that showcases album artwork while the CD plays, transforming your music collection into rotating wall art that changes with your listening mood. It features a built-in speaker and rechargeable battery, so you can place it on a bookshelf, hang it on the wall with the optional mounting bracket, or carry it from room to room.

    The minimalist design with clean lines and simple controls complements contemporary interiors while letting the album artwork shine through. Since it is a multifunctional design, it works well for compact dwellings. Besides playing music, it functions as a decorative element that can be changed based on mood or season. The wall-mounting option frees up valuable space, while the built-in speaker eliminates the need for separate audio equipment.

    Click Here to Buy Now: $199.00

    What we like

    • Transforms CD collections into decorative elements rather than hidden storage items.
    • The wall-mountable design saves space in cramped corners.

    What we dislike

    • Built-in speaker quality can’t match dedicated audio systems.
    • Limited to CD playback without additional digital connectivity options.

    7. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

    The Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set brings the calming essence of outdoor adventure into your home through a cleverly designed aromatic experience. This charming miniature recreates the visual appeal of a campfire with its stainless steel structure and bundled “firewood” sticks that are diffusers for essential oils. The set captures the unique scent of Mt. Hakusan, transporting you to forest settings without leaving your living room.

    It can also be used as a pocket stove with the included trivets, allowing for small-scale cooking experiences. This diffuser set is perfect for small homes because it creates an immersive sensory experience without requiring the space of a real fireplace or fire pit. It has a compact footprint which delivers maximum impact in minimal space.

    Click Here to Buy Now:$99.00

    What we like

    • Creates a multisensory experience combining visual appeal with aromatic benefits.
    • Dual functionality as both diffuser and miniature cooking surface maximizes utility.

    What we dislike

    • Requires purchase of essential oils for continued use.
    • Small size limits cooking capabilities to very small portions or demonstrations.

    8. Obsidian Black Mini Grip Tongs

    The Obsidian Black Mini Grip Tongs bring professional-grade precision to home cooking in a compact form that’s perfect for small kitchens. Available in 4.9″ (12.5cm) and 7″ (18cm) lengths, these elegantly designed tongs are perfect for food handling tasks. Their lovely black finish is achieved through a special oxidation process, which adds a sophisticated style to both cooking and serving.

    For those cooking in compact kitchens, these tongs are a better choice than standard options. Their smaller size requires less storage space while still providing essential functionality. Their elegant design makes them suitable for serving food on the dinner table, reducing the number of utensils needed. They have a lightweight design which makes them quite easy to handle, reducing hand fatigue.

    Click Here to Buy Now: $19.00

    What we like

    • Space-efficient size perfect for limited kitchen storage.
    • Dual-purpose design works for both cooking and serving, eliminating redundant utensils.

    What we dislike

    • Smaller size may be less comfortable for those with larger hands.
    • The limited length makes them less suitable for deep pots or high-heat cooking.

    9. Jewelry Display Clock

    The Jewelry Display Clock solves two common issues in small homes – keeping track of time and organizing small accessories. This minimalist timepiece features a hollow center that provides the perfect display area for rings, earrings, and other small trinkets, transforming them from clutter into curated décor. The pendulum doubles as a hanging point for earrings, adding movement and visual interest to the display.

    It can be wall-mounted to save space or displayed on a shelf or mantel. In both forms, it combines two different items —a clock and jewelry storage into one compact body, thereby maximizing functionality without adding visual clutter. It eliminates the need for separate jewelry boxes that consume significant drawer space in your room.

    Click Here to Buy Now: $49.00

    What we like

    • Combines timekeeping and jewelry storage in one space-efficient design.
    • Transforms small accessories from hidden clutter into visible décor elements.

    What we dislike

    • Limited storage capacity accommodates only smaller jewelry pieces.
    • Requires occasional resetting if moved or during daylight saving time changes.

    10. Key Holder Wakka

    The Key Holder Wakka makes the mundane act of storing keys into a satisfying ritual that helps establish organization habits in even the smallest entryways. This elegant system pairs a stylish keyring with a wooden magnetic base, every time you remove or return your keys, the magnetic connection creates a distinctive tapping sound that reinforces the habit through auditory feedback.

    The key holder is a better option than traditional hooks or bowls in tiny homes with limited entryway space since it has a minimal footprint that occupies very little wall or surface area. Since it is a wall-mountable design, it ensures your important items are visible and easily accessible, so you can easily pick them up and leave the house. The magnetic system keeps the keys securely in place rather than sliding around or getting buried under other items.

    Click Here to Buy Now: $45.00

    What we like

    • Creates a consistent home for keys, eliminating time wasted searching for misplaced items.
    • Sensory feedback encourages habit formation for better organization.

    What we dislike

    • Accommodates only one set of keys on the magnetic holder.
    • Requires consistent placement in the same location to establish effective habits.

    The post 10 Best Small Space-Friendly Products To Elevate Your Tiny Home’s Look, Functionality & Efficiency first appeared on Yanko Design.

    Pensaer prioritises natural materials for Clay House extension in London

    Clay House by Pensaer

    Clay wall finishes and built-in oak joinery were used to add warmth and facility to this Victorian terraced house in south London, extended by British architecture studio Pensaer.

    Named Clay House after the project’s use of the raw material, the home in East Dulwich has been expanded by 40 square metres with a side and rear extension.

    Rear facade of Clay House in south London
    Pensaer has extended a Victorian terraced house in London called Clay House

    Pensaer‘s addition maximises natural light and improves the flow through the house, which originally had a rear kitchen with a low ceiling and poor connection to the outside.

    The studio’s design also introduces multiple areas to sit, relax, and work, while aiming to respect the character of the original Victorian structure.

    Exterior view of London house extension by Pensaer
    A clay-based render coats the exterior and interior walls

    “The work has created an open, contemporary space that has a carefully considered connection to the garden,” studio founder Rhys Owen told Dezeen.

    Clay House’s roof geometry has been designed to feel like one continuous sculptural form, with layered beams framing a large kitchen skylight that brings light deep into the plan.

    Living space within Clay House by Pensaer
    A built-in bench features in the living space

    To create a sense of continuity throughout Clay House, the exposed beams transition into oak wall shelving and a prominent window seat that looks out over the garden.

    This built-in bench is one of the focal points of the project, providing a space for the clients to sit while bridging the gap between indoor and outdoor spaces.

    Inspired by the idea of a “warm welcoming”, Pensaer’s design focuses on bringing harmony between materials and its muted colour palette.

    The garden has also been reinvigorated with built-in seating and planting beds.

    Kitchen and dining area within London home by Pensaer
    A skylight draws light into the kitchen

    “We thought a lot about how to balance inside and outside, making sure the client felt connected to their garden,” said Owen.

    “The interplay of warm oak, polished concrete, and natural light creates a harmonious dialogue between textures and tones.”

    Kitchen within Clay House by Pensaer
    Natural materials have been priortised

    Both Clay House’s exterior and interior walls are finished in a clay-based render, forming a backdrop to natural wood furniture and joinery. These are contrasted with polished concrete floors.

    “By integrating natural materials with sculptural elements, we’ve designed a space that feels both grounding and uplifting,” said Owen.

    Other house extensions finished with natural materials include Hemp House, designed by London practice Nimtim Architects with hempcrete and timber, and architect Michael Henriksen’s extension of his own home in St Albans using exposed clay-block walls, timber ceilings and cork flooring.

    The photography is by Peter Molloy.

    The post Pensaer prioritises natural materials for Clay House extension in London appeared first on Dezeen.

    River-Inspired Interior Gives a Train a Softer and Gentler Character

    The thundering approach of a high-speed train typically conjures images of sleek metal, industrial power, and mechanical precision—a marvel of engineering that seems worlds apart from nature’s gentle rhythms. Yet beneath this technological exterior lies an unexpected parallel: like a river carving its path through the landscape, trains flow along their predetermined routes with a similar sense of purpose and grace. This poetic connection between mechanical transport and natural waterways has inspired a breathtaking reimagining of France’s iconic TGV high-speed rail service.

    The TGV Inoui’s fifth-generation interior design embraces this surprising kinship between train and river, transforming the passenger experience through thoughtful elements that evoke water’s soothing qualities. Launched after a comprehensive design project that began in 2016, this revolutionary approach challenges our expectations of train travel, replacing clinical efficiency with organic warmth and industrial hardness with inviting softness. The result is a traveling environment that feels less like transportation and more like a gentle journey through flowing spaces.

    Designers: Nendo, AREP

    Stepping aboard the redesigned carriages reveals an immediate sense of serenity, with a fluid horizon line that extends throughout the interior, creating visual continuity that mimics the surface of water. This horizontal element serves multiple purposes—establishing perspective, orienting passengers within the space, and subtly reinforcing the river concept without resorting to obvious thematic elements. The effect feels natural rather than forced, a sophisticated interpretation rather than a literal translation.

    The seating arrangements draw inspiration from smooth river pebbles, with rounded forms that have been shaped by imaginary currents over time. These organic contours replace the rigid geometries typically found in train interiors, offering passengers embracing comfort that seems to cradle the body. The tactile upholstery further enhances this sensation, with textures and colors that evoke the tranquil depths of flowing water, creating a multisensory experience that transcends mere transportation.

    Perhaps the most delightful expressions of the river theme appear in the lighting elements, where playful lamp designs capture the bubbly, effervescent quality of water’s surface. These luminous accents provide both practical illumination and whimsical visual interest, punctuating the serene environment with moments of joy. The interplay between these vibrant details and the overall calm atmosphere creates a balanced environment that feels simultaneously energizing and relaxing.

    Traveling at speeds exceeding 350 kilometers per hour, passengers experience a curious paradox: extreme velocity wrapped in exceptional comfort. The environmental considerations embedded in the design enhance this sense of mindful travel, with 97% recyclable materials and light-colored exteriors that improve albedo and reduce energy consumption during summer months. These sustainable elements align perfectly with the river concept, honoring natural systems while embracing technological advancement.

    The redesigned TGV Inoui represents a fundamental shift in how we perceive train interiors, moving away from purely functional spaces toward environments that prioritize human comfort and emotional well-being. By softening the industrial character of high-speed rail travel through nature-inspired design, the project creates what the designers call “a more personal bubble of comfort in a shared space.” This transformation acknowledges that transportation isn’t merely about moving from point A to point B—it’s about the quality of the journey itself.

    The post River-Inspired Interior Gives a Train a Softer and Gentler Character first appeared on Yanko Design.

    "Unpretentious, lovely human scale" says commenter

    Scottish cottage with wooden elements

    In this week’s comments update, readers are discussing a cottage in the Scottish Highlands finished with a natural material palette of local timber, clay plaster and earthenware tiles.

    Designed by Baillie Baillie Architects, the one-bedroom home in Plockton was envisioned as a contemporary interpretation of the traditional cottages often found in the Scottish Highlands.

    Scottish cottage finished with natural materials
    Iorram cottage explores “a distinctly Scottish approach to natural materials”

    “The raw detailing is very appealing” 

    Dezeen readers were drawn to the design, with BBOB calling it “just perfect!” and Design Junkie simply stating “wood is good”.

    IDRACULA said that the cottage had an “unpretentious, lovely human scale”. They continued to say: “Like this a lot. Classic finishes. Excites the senses.”

    Jb reflected that “the raw detailing is very appealing”, while Souji thought it was “simply lovely (besides the roof material choice)”, before adding “love the rustic feel”.

    But not all readers were quite so smitten, with Tom Roberts writing: “I really find the knotty wood distracting.”

    Are you a fan? Join the discussion ›

    Kengo Kuma cafe with mesh roof
    Kengo Kuma cloaks “ethereal cafe” in Fukuoka with mesh canopy

    “The ordinariness of this building is thinly veiled”

    Another story causing a stir in the comments section this week was an earthquake-resistant, “ethereal cafe” in Fukuoka, Japan, enveloped by a steel and mesh web-like canopy.

    For Jb, “box plush mesh does not add up to architecture.”

    “The ordinariness of this building is thinly veiled,” added The Discreet Architect.

    AlfredHitchcock agreed, commenting: “The fabric canopy, which appears to perform absolutely no function whatsoever might be ethereal, but the rectangular shoebox below the canopy certainly isn’t.”

    Do you agree? Join the discussion ›

    Concrete brutalist house Portugal
    Brutalist hilltop home evokes an “ancient ruin”

    “Brutalism is back”

    Also gaining plenty of attention in the comments section this week was a brutalist home in Portugal, designed with board-marked concrete walls by Pedro Domingos Arquitectos.

    “Call me a troglodyte, but I love a raw, primitive space,” put forward JZ.

    Commenter DH also had nothing but praise for the project, calling it “exquisite”, before declaring “brutalism is back – finally”.

    “Nothing a few throw pillows and a concentrated artillery barrage couldn’t fix,” wrote Karl. Taking a similar stance, BrettS said: “There’s an awful lot of remnant WW2 gun emplacement about it.”

    Ricardo Laje also wasn’t convinced, writing: “I love the raw look of the pictures and the geometry but I’m not sure if I would like to live there.”

    What do you reckon? Join the discussion ›

    Comments Update

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    The post “Unpretentious, lovely human scale” says commenter appeared first on Dezeen.