Inspired by the designs of Jacques Monneraud, YouTuber Mia Mueller decided to put her skills to the test, making pottery that mimics the delicate, craft-like feel of corrugated cardboard. While Monneraud’s pieces look fantastic (and probably feel just as incredible to hold), Mueller’s approach actually guides us through the process, helping regular-folk understand the nuances of building clay pieces that look like cardboard. Mueller’s YouTube channel, Pottery To The People, is absolute gold for terracotta/ceramic enthusiasts, and although a lot of her content is centric to traditional use of the potter’s wheel, this particular project took a less conventional approach, but yielded results that look genuinely fantastic! Watch the video above to see how she did it, or just scroll to read more.

Designer: Pottery To The People

Mueller’s attempt at cardboard pottery is a part of her ‘steal like an artist’ video series, where she mimics the styles of pottery artists online. Monneraud’s designs have taken the internet by storm over the last few weeks and it only made sense for Mueller to give it a shot too, to see how easy it was, and whether the resulting pieces were, in fact, functional as pottery goods.

Choosing the right clay was perhaps the most crucial starting step. Different clays take on different hues after firing, so ensuring you’re left with the right cardboard-like color at the end of the firing process is key to nailing that illusion. Mueller used an Indian clay, known for its perfect cardboard-like brown hue.

Once selecting and softening the clay, she took to the potter’s wheel, throwing and shaping the clay in a fairly geometric style. Paper doesn’t bend in complex curves, so Mueller ensured most of her designs had straight lines and sharp edges. Ridges were then ‘stamped’ with the corrugated design, and details like grips, handles, and spouts were given a ridged design using a set of specialized roller-pins with ridges on them.

A few keys to nailing the aesthetic were ensuring the clay dries out significantly before stamping details onto them. Paper isn’t seamless either, so each paper part had to have a distinct start and end, which meant not blending in the edge lines. Even when joining multiple parts together, it’s instinctive to blend them in, making sure the joint is strong. However, cardboard doesn’t ‘blend’ either, so edges where different parts joined had to be left unblended, allowing the edge-line to show. Sure, this results in a fairly weak end-product, but then again, this entire endeavor is an aesthetic-driven one, not a functionality-driven one. The resulting pots are great for looking at, maybe even using as bouquet holders, but aren’t meant for holding water or any liquid. Since they’re unglazed, they’re still incredibly porous and will absorb water too, which means it’s best left displayed on a shelf as a statement piece rather than being put to use.

The post How to make Clay Pottery look like Cardboard first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jessica Thompson-Lee, a ceramic artist and educator originally from Kansas City, MO, now thriving in Brooklyn, New York, is transforming the way we think about ceramics. Her work is an exploration of the dynamic relationship between form and function, with each piece inviting a tactile journey as much as a visual one. Thompson-Lee’s creations don’t just sit on a shelf, they beckon you to touch, to hold, and to explore their intricate, biomorphic designs.

Designer: Jessica Thompson-Lee

Inspired by the organic beauty of coral reefs, cellular structures, and the delicate networks of mycelium, her pieces are alive with movement. Handles on her mugs, for instance, aren’t mere attachments, they stretch and sprawl like living extensions of the vessel itself, creating web-like patterns that challenge the very idea of how a mug should be held. Each curve and twist invites you to find new, playful ways of interacting with the object, transforming the simple act of holding a mug into an engaging sensory experience.

However, as beautiful as these designs are, one might wonder about their ergonomics. How comfortable is it to actually put your fingers through those differently shaped holes, and what kind of grip can one get? The intricate designs may offer visual allure, but they could pose a challenge when it comes to practical use. The unconventional placement of the handles might make it difficult to get a secure hold, raising concerns about the balance between art and utility. The delicate structure, while visually striking, might make one hesitant to use the mug for its intended purpose, fearing that it could break. But, you would never know until you actually hold one, it might just surprise you with great comfort. Either way, the piece can definitely add value to your space with its charm.

The magic of Thompson-Lee’s work doesn’t just lie in the finished product but in the journey of its creation. In her Brooklyn studio, she begins each piece with what she calls “sketching with clay,” an approach that’s as spontaneous as it is deliberate. With a squeeze bottle filled with liquid clay, she lets her hands guide the design onto a plaster slab, embracing the unpredictable nature of the process. This element of surprise and fluidity infuses her work with joyful spontaneity, making each piece as unique as the moment it was born.

Once the vessel takes shape on the wheel, Thompson-Lee shifts to the meticulous hand-building phase. With an exacto knife, she carves handles from thick slabs of clay, carefully refining the form until it’s just right. After smoothing the edges with a damp sponge, the handle is attached to the mug, which then undergoes its first firing. But the journey doesn’t end there. Layers of intricate patterns and vibrant glazes are added post-firing, transforming the piece into a vivid, abstract work of art.

Thompson-Lee’s creative exploration doesn’t stop at mugs and vases. She’s pushing her biomorphic designs into new territories, with plans for jars, lamps, and even small furniture. Committed to sustainability, she’s also experimenting with recycled paper pulp as a medium. Her unique, tactile creations are available on Etsy, where each piece offers an adventure waiting to be discovered.

The post Biomorphic handles on these ceramic mugs add a touch of nature and quirk to lifestyle design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nike is honoring Kobe Bryant’s legacy with a series of new sneaker releases that celebrate his life, achievements, and special bond with his daughter, Gianna “Gigi” Bryant. This fall, Nike will introduce two new sneaker collections that resonate with fans and sneaker enthusiasts, highlighting Kobe’s impact on and off the basketball court.

Designer: Nike

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro Low ‘Halo’ @lasbestkicks

First, Nike is set to release the all-white Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro sneakers, continuing the popular “Halo” theme introduced in 2023. This year, the Flyknit-based sneaker will be available in its original high-top build and the Kobe 9 Elite Low variation. These sneakers mark the first time the Nike Kobe 9 Elite, initially launched in 2014, will be offered in its Protro retro form. Previously, the only rerelease of the Kobe 9 Elite was part of the 2016 “Fade to Black” collection, which did not feature the Protro enhancements.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro ‘Halo’ @jw0574

The Kobe 9 Elite Protro “Halo” features nearly all-white uppers, with black carbon fiber shanks at the midsole providing contrast. The sneakers utilize full Flyknit uppers, a design trend common in Nike’s performance sneakers from the 2010s. The high-top version includes a glossy TPU Swoosh and a tonal repeating print of the Kobe logo, while the Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro features an iridescent Swoosh. The Kobe 9 Elite Protro “Halo” will be released on Aug. 23, Kobe’s 46th birthday, at a retail price of $240, followed by the Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro “Halo” on Sept. 19, priced at $210.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro ‘Halo’ @jw0574

In June, Nike released the “Girl Dad” sneakers, honoring the special bond between Kobe and his daughter Gigi. This special edition of the Kobe 4 Protro was inspired by a memorable courtside moment shared between Kobe and Gigi. The sneakers featured a striking green color, black shoelaces, the words “Girl Dad” printed on the inner tongue, and Kobe Bryant’s signature on the side. The design was completed with a total orange insole, reflecting Kobe’s support for women’s basketball and the WNBA hoodie he famously wore. The “Girl Dad” sneakers quickly sold out, showing fans’ strong connection with Kobe and Gigi’s legacy.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro ‘Halo’ @jw0574

Nike highlights the sneaker’s premium materials, including a chrome heel clip, metallic silver branding, and an icy outsole, adding elegance to the design. The Kobe 4 Protro has been retooled for enhanced performance, featuring Nike’s Zoom cushioning technology and a springy foam midsole that houses Zoom Air in the heel for extra bounce, perfect for a spirited dad-versus-daughter basketball showdown.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro ‘Halo’ @jw0574

Vanessa Bryant shared the release news on Instagram, celebrating the shoes as a tribute to Kobe’s commitment and love for their daughters Natalia, Gianna, Bianka, and Capri. She wrote, “For our Most Valuable Girl Dad. This Father’s Day, we celebrate Kobe’s commitment and love for our daughters with the Kobe 4 Protro ‘Girl Dad.'”

Special Kobe 4 Protro “Girl Dad” sneakers in honor of the late Kobe Bryant and his late daughter Gianna “Gigi” Bryant.

These sneaker releases are more than just shoes—they’re heartfelt tributes to love, family, and legacy. They let fans celebrate and keep Kobe’s memory alive in a meaningful way.

The post Nike Honors Kobe Bryant and Daughter Gigi with ‘Girl Dad’ and ‘Halo’ Protro Sneakers first appeared on Yanko Design.

Aside from the actual sports events and the Olympians themselves, another popular activity in Paris during the Olympics is pin trading. You see the athletes and fans trying to get as many pins as they can, a practice that actually goes back to the 1924 Paris Olympics where it was a sign of international friendship. One of the games’ major sponsors, Samsung, is bringing a new spin to this tradition, and bringing prizes into the mix.

Designer: Samsung

The Samsung Olympic Games Pin Masters Challenge lets visitors in Paris get the chance to collect 16 specially created pins by playing different Galaxy AI-powered challenges at the Olympic rendezvous @ Samsung pop-up experiences all over the city. You can even get the chance to get the extremely rare Golden Pin in order to become an official Samsung Olympic Games Pin Master. If ever you’re in Paris, you have until September 8 to play this challenge.

The 16 pins were designed by French illustrator Jean André and they are actually made from recycled aluminum from old Galaxy smartphones. Eleven of these pins represent Olympic sports like breaking, skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing, and four Paralympic sports – blind football, para athletics, wheelchair basketball, and wheelchair tennis. There are also four Special Pins that feature three-dimensional landmarks of the city. And then, there is that rare and elusive Golden Pin.

If you’re able to collect all 16 pins, you’ll get a new Galaxy Z Flip6 and a raffle entry to win a round-trip package for two to attend the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics. Several have already become Pin Masters, and it looks like most of them are kids. They’re the ones who probably enjoyed playing the challenges to get the pins. If I was there in Paris, I would probably be all over this challenge, even just for the pins.

The post Become a Samsung Olympic Games Pin Master and get a Galaxy Z Flip6 first appeared on Yanko Design.

I’m a coffee buff but have a limited sense of good coffee. A simple machine keeps me satisfied but a nice brew at a café really tells the difference. I wouldn’t say I’m going to translate into someone keen on brewing specialty coffee at home anytime soon. But if you’ve been yearning for barista-level precision and control over your cup of coffee, you can settle for the new Breville Oracle Jet, which is now available in the US.

A keen coffee machine that can produce hot or cold-press espresso, most of it automatically, the Oracle Jet is Australia-based Breville’s first-of-its-kind option on the market. From how it appears, it’s an impressive coffee machine with a brushed stainless steel finish (available in a range of exclusive colors) featuring a touchscreen display that would let you control it in most cases. Interesting however is the fact that the intuitive machine automatically does the grinding, dosing, and tamping to eliminate the human intervention, yet enhancing the brew quality in return.

Designer: Breville

What really distinguishes Breville’s new entrant in the world of specialty brewing at home concept is its ability to brew perfect cold espresso drinks. In fact, it’s the first in the Breville’s portfolio that makes cold brew but then the price of the machines really makes me skip a beat. Not that I was going to make an effort to secure finances for purchase, but $2000 for the coffee machine will have many like me deterred and setting in return for a regular drip coffee maker.

This doesn’t at all mean that the Oracle Jet does not have its mouth where the money is. Of course, the price is nothing for a good shot of cold brew espresso that this machine has been designed and manufactured to achieve with little to no effort. A definitely lift up of your stature from a barista visitor to a full-blown coffee specialist at home!

As an auto cold-brew espresso machine, it requires a bit of doing to install it and get the beans and water calibrated. Thereafter the process is pretty automatic and straight-forward. The touchscreen panel onboard is where all the controls are for you to set the grind size, switch between hot and cold brew or add your choice of milk to the coffee. The controls on the screen are generated with the tech-based ‘barista guidance,” and the machine helps execute the moves to brew you a perfect temperature espresso every time of the day.

The post Breville’s new Oracle brews barista-quality cold and hot coffee at “Jet” speeds with precision first appeared on Yanko Design.

We all know how important water is to our health, but simply knowing those facts doesn’t immediately translate to action. Most of us simply forgo drinking water until we feel thirsty or when it’s time to eat, even though we actually need to hydrate regularly throughout the day. It’s easy to forget to do that in during the busy day, and it’s also just as easy to snooze or skip alarms you set to remind you. You wouldn’t be so complacent, however, if your water cup or tumbler is fated to fall over unless you drink water at the right time, and that’s somewhat the kind of scare tactic that this concept device employs to try to get you to drink water more regularly.

Designers: Yuxiong Dong, Yaoxin Cai, Yongde Zhu, Kang Han

No, the cup thankfully doesn’t actually threaten to spill your water if you don’t rush to catch it, but it makes you think the tumbler will indeed tumble over if you don’t. It only tries to make you stand up and make the effort to walk to the device, presuming you put it far from your desk. The way this tilting water cup works is a mixture of simple mechanics and psychology, though some will probably have doubts about the efficacy of the latter.

The design is made up of two parts, the actual cup that holds the water and the base that does the mind trick. You simply put the cup of water on top of the base, turn the ring on the base to set the timer, and then go back to what you were doing. Once the timer runs out, an alarm presumably sounds and the surface of the base where the cup rests begins to tilt, forcing you to rush to its side and pick up the cup. And since you’re already there anyway, you might as well drink the water from it, which is the whole point of this rather odd system.

Of course, the cup won’t actually fall off since it’s magnetically attached to that base. The question is whether the contents will start spilling at that angle, so you might have to make sure not to fill it up in the first place. You might also wonder if it will be difficult to pick up the cup from the base considering it has to be held by strong magnets to prevent it from slipping when it tilts.

The biggest concern, however, will be whether the strategy actually works. It might be effective for the first few times, but once your mind has adjusted to it, it won’t be so easily tricked again. At that point, you might very well start ignoring it, too, just like those alarms and reminders, turning the titling water cup into an odd but pointless design.

The post Tilting water cup concept gets you to drink more water by scaring you first appeared on Yanko Design.

When you’re going camping or staying outdoors overnight, having a light source is one of the most important yet sometimes most difficult things. You can of course have lamps and torches but they are only able to light a small portion of your space, depending of course on how large the site is or how many you are bringing. There are a lot more options now as more brands are getting into creating outdoor products.

Designer: Goal Zero

Skylight is a Telescoping Area Light that can illuminate a large part of your outdoor space, up to 300 feet to be specific. The 6,000 lumens device can give you “dramatically more visibility” than the usual camping lights that are available in the market. It also gives off a warmer light and can be raised from 4 to 12 feet, depending on how large of a space you need to illuminate.

The Skylight also has an IPX4 water resistant rating so even if it drizzles, you can still use it even as you take shelter in your tents or umbrellas. The multi-directional lighting is also pretty useful as well as the 4 brightness settings that you can choose from. The design of the 6 articulating petals of the area light makes it look like a dragonfly or insect that can fly around at any second.

It also has an internal battery that can make it last for 8 hours at its lowest brightness setting but you can also connect it into a Yeti to power it for 250 hours or a larger power station for longer. This means it can be used for power outages as well. The Skylight has a hard plastic protective case so it will be easier to carry it around.

The post Skylight can brighten up your campsite with multi-directional lighting first appeared on Yanko Design.

Eating outside, whether at an al fresco restaurant, the beach, backyard, or park, is one of the best ways to bond with loved ones. However, your greatest enemy there are the insects that fly and crawl around, particularly flies. You can shoo them away using fans but that is pretty inconvenient and tiring. Having a device to shoo them away would be the best thing to have.

Designer: Andrew Smith

The ShooAway is a fly repellent fan that has one job: to keep flies away from your food. The best thing is that it is 100% chemical free so you know your food is safe not just from insects but from other harmful elements. It can also work not just outdoors but indoors as well. You can place in on the table or even directly over a plate of food without worrying about anything.

The device is battery-powered and the fan blades themselves are safe since they are soft and will automatically stop if it happens to touch your hand. There are also dots on the blades which are their patented Holographamatic Repel Dots. They shoo away the flies because of the movement of the blades and also the refracting light which apparently they hate.

The on-guard fly swisher can work as long as it has battery so you don’t need to worry about it running out when you’re in the middle of a meal. So instead of your arms getting tired from shooing flies away, you can just get tired from eating all that delicious food.

The post Fly repellent fan is the safest way to keep flies away from your food first appeared on Yanko Design.

Welcome to the first Furniture Friday, where we’ll explore the furniture that shapes our lives each week. Today, we begin with a design icon, the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Herman Miller. This legendary piece has captivated enthusiasts for decades with its blend of elegance, innovation, and comfort. From its rich history to its meticulous design, the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman are timeless symbols of modern living.

Designer: Herman Miller

A Timeless Classic: The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman

The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman journey began in the 1940s when Charles and Ray Eames were exploring new materials and techniques in furniture design. Their pioneering use of molded plywood and ergonomic principles set the stage for this iconic piece. Introduced to the public on the Arlene Francis “Home” show on NBC in 1956, the chair quickly became a design sensation.

Herman Miller founder D.J. De Pree in his home office

Charles and Ray aimed to create a chair that offered a warm, welcoming appearance and exceptional comfort. They crafted a luxurious and functional design by merging the aesthetics of a traditional club chair with modern materials. This innovative use of molded plywood showcased their ability to push the boundaries of furniture design.

Produced by Herman Miller in 1956, the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman have remained true to their original design while incorporating new materials and manufacturing techniques. This consistency has ensured their status as timeless pieces of furniture. The chair’s popularity extends beyond homes and offices, having appeared in numerous TV shows and films, such as “Frasier,” “Iron Man,” and “Tron: Legacy,” cementing its place in popular culture.

Design and Craftsmanship

The Eames Lounge Chair features a shell constructed from layers of molded plywood, providing a solid yet lightweight framework that supports the body comfortably. The plywood is finished with a rich veneer, adding natural elegance to its modern silhouette.

The chair includes several distinct components:

• The seat and back cushions are identical in construction and are interchangeable. They are made from high-density foam wrapped with a blend of down and feather, ensuring comfort and durability. The cushions are upholstered in premium leather or high-quality fabric and secured to the plywood shells with snaps to maintain their position.
• The back shells, crafted from molded plywood, are designed to secure the back cushions and provide structural support. They are connected to the base with cast aluminum back connectors and reinforced with rubber spacers to ensure flexibility and resilience.
• The chair’s arms are constructed from 12-gauge steel plates, cushioned with foam rubber, and covered with fabric or leather to match the seat and back cushions. These arms provide sturdy support while enhancing the chair’s overall comfort.
• Shock mounts made from resilient natural rubber attach the backrest to the seat, allowing for a slight flex that increases comfort without compromising support. This design element is crucial for the chair’s ergonomic functionality.
• The chair’s base features a five-point star design made from die-cast aluminum, which includes a built-in swivel mechanism. This base is designed for stability and ease of movement, with stainless steel glides that adjust to ensure the chair remains level on various surfaces.

The ottoman, designed to complement the lounge chair, shares the same construction principles. Its shell is made from molded plywood and features high-density foam cushions upholstered in matching leather or fabric. The ottoman’s base mirrors the design of the chair’s base, ensuring a cohesive and stylish appearance.

Unique Appeal and Comfort

The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman are distinguished by their exceptional comfort and unique charm. Their curved, ergonomic design conforms to the body’s natural contours, providing excellent support, particularly in the lumbar region. This makes the chair ideal for long periods of sitting.

Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman

The foam and leather upholstery combination enhances the overall sitting experience, creating a luxurious feel. Generous proportions and thoughtful design details, such as the angled seat and backrest, contribute to the chair’s inviting and relaxing nature.

Meticulous attention to detail in the production process ensures each piece is of the highest quality, with every seam and joint carefully constructed. This craftsmanship adds to the chair’s aesthetic appeal and durability, embodying the Eameses’ philosophy of seamlessly combining design and function.

Vision Then and Now

The 1963 ad for the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, featured in Progressive Architecture, captures the essence of the chair’s design philosophy. The ad emphasizes “peace of mind and ease of body” in a chair “you live in rather than sit in.” This messaging highlights the Eameses’ focus on creating a piece of furniture that goes beyond mere functionality to enhance the user’s quality of life. The visual design of the ad, with its clean lines and modern aesthetic, underscores the timeless charm of the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman.

The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman were featured in a 1963 ad in Progressive Architecture magazine.

Today, the vision remains unchanged, but the context has evolved. Modern interiors continue to embrace the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman for their unmatched comfort and iconic design. The contemporary photograph of the chair in a modern living space shows how seamlessly it integrates into today’s homes, maintaining its status as a symbol of sophistication and comfort. The chair’s ability to adapt to changing styles while retaining its core design principles is a testament to the enduring genius of Charles and Ray Eames.

Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman in Russet Walnut

Introducing Sustainable Materials

This is the perfect segue to Herman Miller’s exciting new development. Herman Miller introduces bamboo-based upholstery to the iconic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, reflecting its ongoing commitment to sustainability across its portfolio.

Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman with bamboo-based leather alternative

Herman Miller expands its offering for the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman to include a bamboo-based leather alternative. This plant-based material is derived from bamboo, known for being one of the world’s most sustainable resources due to its rapid growth, higher CO2 absorption rate, and minimal water requirements.

A Sustainable Innovation

The new bamboo-based leather alternative is softer, more durable, scratch-resistant, and more colorfast than traditional materials. It has been used in designer handbags, luxury automotive interiors, and now, as an upholstery option for the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman. Upholstering the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman in material derived from bamboo helps reduce the material’s carbon footprint by up to 35 percent, contributing to a lighter environmental impact.

Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman using bamboo-based leather alternative

Maintaining Quality and Aesthetics

The new upholstery is available in ivory, russet, and black, each of which can be paired with any existing shell types—walnut, Santos Palisander, ash, or oak—in standard and tall sizes. This ensures that the iconic design and high-quality standards of the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman are upheld while integrating modern sustainability practices.

Legacy and Modern Sustainability

Noah Schwarz, vice president of product design for Herman Miller, emphasizes the significance of this innovation: “Charles and Ray Eames pioneered the use of molded plywood in furniture, one of the central material innovations of their time. Today, Herman Miller is among the first furniture brands to offer a plant-based leather alternative—made almost entirely from bamboo. The two materials come together in the latest offering of the iconic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, upholding the aesthetic and quality standards that have defined the chair for nearly 70 years.”

The Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman are celebrated for their timeless charm and enduring quality, making them a benchmark for furniture design and comfort. This new development continues the legacy of the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, combining timeless design with modern sustainability, ensuring that these iconic pieces remain relevant and cherished for generations to come.

The post Sustainable Luxury: Herman Miller’s Bamboo Upholstery for the Eames Lounge Chair first appeared on Yanko Design.

Life can get hectic nd work can be super exhausting, which can be brutal for our mental health. Taking care of our mental well-being has never been more essential, considering how chaotic life can get. As much as we tend to pay attention to our physical well-being, it’s time to do the same for our mental health. Meditation can really help you unwind, release stress, and create an overall tranquil mindset. Although if you’re anything like me, sitting still without a single thought in your head can seem damn near impossible! Hence we’ve curated a collection of innovative gadgets to help you master the art of meditation, or simply take care of your mental well-being.

1. Japanese Lantern Candle

Called the Japanese lantern candle, this unique little candle is inspired by the Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern and is amped with an intriguing pillowy shape. The lantern is a must-have for your bedroom, helping you unwind after a long day at work, and letting you relax.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The lantern candle offers a contemporary and lovely take on an iconic Japanese design, and it features a minimalist design that allows it to effortlessly merge with any modern living space. It radiates a relaxing glow, which helps you feel at ease, and enter a meditative state.

What we like

• The wax is non-melting, it forms a lovely clarity on the candle

What we dislike

• The candle is a fire hazard, so you need to use it carefully around kids and pets

2. Decima

Called Decima – this timer has been designed specifically for meditation. Much like any timer, you need to set the duration of the time, and the interval of the reminders. And unlike typical analog timers, you can set the bell tones, volume, and brightness of the display. It even has a guided mode to show you how to do things.

Why is it noteworthy?

This timer provides various functions through easy-to-use buttons on the sides and the top of the device. It also includes an LDC display on the front which shows the time, and other useful info like the current mode or setting you are in. The LED lighting shines through the front grille.

What we like

• The device looks quite visually interesting
• You don’t need to use your smartphone for a timer

What we dislike

• It is a concept, so the final product may differ

3. ASMR Zen Ball

Called the ASMR Zen Ball, it merges natural and engineered elements to form a space-inspired design that offers a calming and relaxing experience to its users. The tiny product features a meteorite-inspired porous surface which serves as a great absorbent surface for your aroma oils.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The Zen Ball is made from genuine volcanic stone and matte aluminum alloy, which lets it double up as a fidget toy, creating an interactive experience, where users can connect with the natural energy of the earth.

What we like

• Functions as a fidget toy, which offers sensory stimulation

What we dislike

• The ball could get rolling due to accidental bumps when not attached to its base

4. Stress-Free Aroma Diffuser

Called the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser, this little diffuser lets you sit back and relax while breathing in an excellent mix of aromatic blends. It can soothe your mind, and help you meditate and unwind after a long day at work. You can play some calming music, and relax with the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

Why is it noteworthy?

It lets out a gentle breeze, which disperses the aroma evenly and lets you relax. The diffuser is equipped with a porcelain filter which absorbs the oils to offer a long-lasting experience.

What we like

• The base is polished and provides an interesting contrast to the organic-looking porcelain disc, letting it function as an elegant decoration piece

What we dislike

• Looks easily breakable and fragile, so it must be handled with care

5. Mendi

Called Mendi, this product is designed to be gym equipment for your brain. It trains your brain and also measures your progress along the way for you. It helps you be mindful, manage stress better, and also elevates your mental and physical performance at work, or while playing some sport.

Why is it noteworthy?

Mendi is designed to sit on your head, looking like a slim and nifty headband. It is equipped with a bunch of sensors under the sleek exterior, and it can be used to measure brain activity, oxygenation, and blood flow as well. You can pair it with an app, to help you go through various brain exercises.

What we like

• Tracks your brain’s activity, and helps you use your mind by engaging in focus-building games

What we dislike

6. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Called the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this diffuser recreates the lovely experience of a pretty outdoor fire. It captures the various scents, and smells of a memorable outdoor fire, but within the comfort of your own home. You can enjoy a fire without using a massive outdoor fire.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The wood for the diffuser is collected from branches that were initially meant to be thrown away. It provides a distinct warm smoky smell, creating a calm and relaxing environment for users.

What we like

• The diffuser can be used as a heating or cooking stool

What we dislike

• Needs small pieces of wood, can’t be used with larger pieces of wood

7. Battery-free Aroma Diffuser

If you feel like meditating or unwinding, then you need to get your hands on the battery-free aroma diffuser. With this diffuser, you can take a deep and relaxing breath without actually harming the environment. As you use this battery-free aroma diffuser, you can harness the power of a single candle.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser doesn’t need any batteries or external power source to operate. You can use the heat of a single candle to spread the lovely scents. It is made from sustainable materials, and features a minimal and eco-friendly design philosophy.

What we like

• Made from recyclable materials
• Compatible with all kinds of essential oils

What we dislike

• As the diffuser lacks electric controls, it is tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma

8. Rin Harmony Incense Holder

Called the Rin Harmony Incense Holder, this incense holder lets you enjoy the smoky aroma of your favorite incense stick. It helps you calm down, irrespective of where you are. It is made from natural walnut wood, and also functions as a storage space for the incense sticks.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199

Why is it noteworthy?

It serves as a safe space to hold the lit stick, and even has a matching cover that lets you snuff out the flame, while ensuring the ashes don’t fly around.

What we like

• Serves as a dual-functional design with a minimal form
• Excellent companion for your calming exercises and meditation

What we dislike

• Only one incense to be lit at a time, so the reach of the aroma is limited

9. Hsu’s Lamp

This innovative lamp was designed to be more than just a source of illumination. It was designed to be an appliance that helps you establish and maintain a healthy sleeping pattern. It includes recommended light levels for varied pre-bedtime activities such as watching TV, meditating, or even reading.

Why is it noteworthy?

You can adjust the lightness/darkness through the lamp, helping you wind down easily after a long day at work. You can also set up a timer for when you want the light to go off.

What we like

• The lamp is flexible – it can be used during the day as a desk lamp as well

What we dislike

• It is a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

10. VOL.

Called VOL., you can wear this smart high-neck color anywhere and everywhere when you need some privacy and personal space in a public setting. You can wear the collar every day, or as and when needed. You can also wear it as a simple collar or cowl, and it is described as “comfortable, stylish, and easy to use” and based on the photo renders, it seems to be that.

Why is it noteworthy?

When you need some privacy in a public space, or if you need to evaluate your current mental health status, you can instantly zip up the collar, and get a temporary break from the chaotic outside world.

What we like

• Equipped with a microphone to help you communicate with someone at the moment

What we dislike

• Users may feel conscious wearing it in public, but it will take some time to get used to it

The post 10 Best Innovative Designs To Boost Your Mental Health & Relaxation first appeared on Yanko Design.