Oct
14

By

franck bohbot captures vienna’s historic amusement park as gallery of sculptural forms

Category: Design Boom

Franck Bohbot Reveals the Sculptural Side of Vienna’s Prater

 

Franck Bohbot’s photographic series, Architecture of Joy, explores the built environment of amusement, revealing the hidden structural beauty of Vienna’s historic Prater. Opened to the public in 1766 by Emperor Joseph II, the Prater has served as the city’s primary pleasure ground for over two centuries, hosting attractions that range from the iconic Riesenrad to contemporary funfair machinery. The French photographer approaches these ephemeral constructions as significant architectural subjects, documenting their texture and design with a disciplined, front-on gaze. The series transforms a lively amusement park into a gallery of sculptural forms, where the patina of time and the inventiveness of designers stand alongside the human pursuit of escapism and joy.

all images by Franck Bohbot

 

 

Architecture of Joy Explores Temporary Structures

 

Since 2010, Bohbot has been interested in how architecture shapes public spaces and shared experiences. His work combines the precise, repeated approach of German photographers Bernd and Hilla Becher, who capture subjects from consistent angles, with the colorful, observational style of American photographers like William Eggleston and Stephen Shore. This duality, Bohbot explains, allows him to render ordinary structures monumental, creating images that feel cinematic yet remain rooted in the present reality.

 

In Architecture of Joy, Franck Bohbot focuses on the manège, the rides, and the machines of celebration. His photographs document the full spectrum of the Prater, including the gleaming, the garish, the worn, and the quietly intimate moments of workers maintaining the rides. He preserves the authenticity of available light and everyday life through centered compositions, strict frontality, and minimal post-production, inviting viewers to appreciate the structural and aesthetic ambition of these temporary architectures. 

Franck Bohbot’s Architecture of Joy explores the built environment of amusement

revealing the hidden structural beauty of Vienna’s historic Prater

the Prater has served as the city’s primary pleasure ground for over two centuries

the French photographer approaches these ephemeral constructions as serious architectural subjects

documenting the form, texture, and design of the structures

the photographer approaches the subject with a disciplined, front-on gaze

the series transforms a lively amusement park into a gallery of sculptural forms

the patina of time and the inventiveness of designers coexist with the human pursuit of escapism and joy

since 2010, Bohbot’s work has been guided by a fascination with how architecture shapes public spaces

rendering ordinary structures monumental

his work combines the approach of Bernd and Hilla Becher with the style of American photographers

creating images that feel cinematic yet remain rooted in the present reality

Franck Bohbot focuses on the manège, the rides, and the machines of celebration

documenting the full spectrum of the Prater

 

project info:

 

name: Architecture of Joy
photographer: Franck Bohbot | @franckbohbot
location: Prater, Vienna, Austria

The post franck bohbot captures vienna’s historic amusement park as gallery of sculptural forms appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Oct
13

By

Anbernic RG DS Brings Nintendo DS Nostalgia Back for Under $100

Category: YankoDesign

Gaming handhelds are gaining considerable attraction due to their portability, and the market is abuzz with numerous options. There’s now keen interest in retro-styled arcade gaming handhelds that can have a form factor oriented towards a pocket-friendly approach. Take, for example, the Anbernic RG35XXSP Anbernic RG Slide AYANEO Pocket DS or AYN Thor, which bring the nostalgic experience of classic handhelds. The price they demand, though, is not for everyone, especially someone looking for an affordable option that checks most of the boxes.

If you’ve been closely following the modern-day gaming handheld evolution, the dual-screen consoles are rising in popularity. The Pocket DS is a very good example, but the starting price of $400 is a bit of a deal breaker. Anbernic aims to fill the gap in the lower segment of the market with an affordable dual-screen pocket handheld, similar to the recently teased RG DS handheld, which will cost less than $100. This dual-screen handheld is designed to emulate games from retro devices that have a similar form factor. For instance, the Nintendo DS originally cost $150 when released, and to have a handheld that can play most of the titles we all love is a massive win for Anbernic, who are known for making affordable handhelds.

Designer: Anbernic

This is not the first time we’ve seen this officially teased handheld in the cloud. Last month, there were leaked device images that were speculated to be AI-generated, but to see this as a real device coming shortly is an exciting development. At that time, the leak sparked a lot of conversation, and after this official teaser, a Reddit user tried to estimate the dimensions of the device from the video, with USB-C being the point of reference for the size guessing. There are no official specs of the gadget yet, but from the visuals, some things are apparent. It will have a MicroSD card slot for memory expansion, two USB-C ports for charging and data transfer. The 3.5mm headphone jack on the front, dual analog sticks, 4 shoulder buttons, and stereo speakers are not surprising.

Nintendo DS titles should be a given on the Anbernic RG DS, given its 4:3 aspect ratio display and centrally positioned microphone. The handheld will come in 4 color options, including black, white, blue, and a semi-transparent housing. The lower price point clearly thwarts any expectations of a powerful SoC inside, but it should be good enough for most classic Nintendo DS titles. For those who don’t mind paying a premium, other solid options are the way to go. Still, it is good to have something for casual gamers who like to have some fun on their daily commute.

The post Anbernic RG DS Brings Nintendo DS Nostalgia Back for Under $100 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Oct
13

By

This Building Moves When You Point Your Phone at It

Category: YankoDesign

Public art installations have traditionally asked visitors to admire from a respectful distance, creating beautiful but passive experiences. Most architectural pavilions follow similar patterns, offering fixed spaces and predetermined views that remain unchanged regardless of who visits. This approach misses opportunities for deeper connections between people and built environments.

Michael Jantzen’s Transmutation Observatory completely flips this script by creating a structure that visitors actively shape through their presence. This isn’t just a pavilion you walk through or art you observe quietly. It’s a living space that responds to human interaction and transforms based on visitor input.

Designer: Michael Jantzen

The observatory consists of three interlocking cylindrical forms of different sizes, supported by four horizontal planes resting on eight vertical columns. Each cylinder features two large, overlapping curved panels that slide around the forms in hundreds of possible configurations. The center cylinder sits horizontally, while others wrap around it.

What makes this structure revolutionary is its smartphone-controlled kinetic system. Visitors walking on the glass floor can point their phones at specific panels to activate small electric motors that slowly move the curved sections. This creates ever-changing architectural experiences where spatial volumes open and close in unexpected ways.

The participatory element transforms passive observation into active creation. Every visitor becomes a temporary architect, reshaping the space according to their curiosity or aesthetic preferences. Multiple staircases throughout the pavilion encourage exploration from different vantage points, ensuring the surrounding landscape is viewed through constantly shifting frames.

Solar sustainability powers the entire interactive experience through a large curved solar cell array mounted to one of the movable panels. When the structure doesn’t need electricity for kinetic functions, excess power flows into the local grid, benefiting the surrounding community. This integration exemplifies thoughtful eco-conscious design.

The visual impact is striking against open landscapes, with pale surfaces that catch and reflect changing light throughout the day. The interwoven cylinders create depth and complexity that shift dramatically as panels move, making the observatory a different structure from moment to moment.

Jantzen’s observatory represents significant evolution in public art and architecture, demonstrating how structures can become responsive to human needs rather than imposing fixed experiences. The project showcases interactive kinetic complexity while maintaining ecological responsibility through solar integration and community energy sharing.

The Transmutation Observatory proves that architecture doesn’t have to be static or predictable. By combining kinetic movement, user interaction, and sustainable technology, it creates spaces that are truly alive, constantly evolving based on human presence, making every visit a unique adventure in spatial discovery.

The post This Building Moves When You Point Your Phone at It first appeared on Yanko Design.

Oct
13

By

This See-Through Library Travels to Neighborhoods Without Books

Category: YankoDesign

Normally, when you mention a traveling library, you picture a mailbox, a cart, or at most, a truck, that goes around places bringing books to those that don’t have access. But imagine this: a library that looks like a greenhouse, feels like a community garden, and can pack up and move to your neighborhood whenever you need it. That’s exactly what Diller Scofidio + Renfro Architects created with “La Libreria,” a stunning temporary library that’s designed to feel like a greenhouse as well.

Born from a concept by fashion icon Diane von Furstenberg, La Libreria challenges everything we think we know about what a library should look like and where it should live. Instead of heavy walls and permanent foundations, this innovative space uses a revolutionary textile membrane called STFE that makes the entire structure feel light, airy, and surprisingly magical.

Designer Name: Diller Scofidio + Renfro Architects

The secret sauce behind this architectural marvel is the STFE membrane developed by French materials manufacturer Serge Ferrari Group. Made from polyarylate, a super-durable polyester, this material offers crystal-clear optical clarity while standing up to harsh UV rays and weather conditions. Think of it as the superhero version of greenhouse covering, strong enough to protect precious books while transparent enough to flood the space with natural light.

This library is special as it completely reimagines the relationship between books and community. The greenhouse-like design creates an inviting, almost garden-like atmosphere that draws people in naturally. You’re not walking into an intimidating institutional building; you’re entering what feels like a bright, welcoming pavilion where reading and socializing blend seamlessly together.

The mobility factor is where La Libreria really shines. This isn’t just about creating a beautiful space; it’s about democratizing access to knowledge. The lightweight structure can be packed up, transported, and reassembled in different locations, bringing library services directly to communities instead of expecting people to travel to a fixed location. Imagine this popping up in your local park, at a festival, or in an underserved neighborhood that doesn’t have easy access to traditional library services.

The architects drew inspiration from tensile lightweight architecture and the experimental work of French engineer Robert Le Ricolais, who explored “tensegrity” concepts in the mid-20th century. This technical foundation allows the structure to enclose large areas without heavy structural components, creating that magical feeling of being inside a soap bubble that somehow stays perfectly intact. What’s particularly refreshing about La Libreria is its intentional focus on physical books and face-to-face learning rather than digital media. In our screen-saturated world, there’s something deeply appealing about a space specifically designed to celebrate the tactile experience of reading and the social aspects of shared learning.

The project represents more than just architectural innovation; it’s a bold statement about making knowledge accessible and creating social spaces that can adapt to diverse community needs. While the STFE material might be too expensive for everyday construction projects, its successful implementation in La Libreria demonstrates the exciting potential for advanced materials to enable new forms of social architecture.

As this greenhouse library continues to capture attention at the Venice Biennale, it’s opening our eyes to possibilities we hadn’t considered before. Libraries don’t have to be permanent, imposing buildings. They can be light, mobile, and as welcoming as a sunny garden pavilion where stories and community naturally flourish together.

The post This See-Through Library Travels to Neighborhoods Without Books first appeared on Yanko Design.

Oct
13

By

5 Best Keychain Knives That Cut Through Anything & Weigh Nothing

Category: YankoDesign

Your pockets are full. Your toolkit weighs you down. Every day, you carry more gear than necessary because you never know what you’ll need. The solution isn’t carrying less—it’s carrying smarter. Keychain knives represent the ultimate evolution of everyday carry: tools so compact they disappear until needed, yet sharp enough to handle real work. These aren’t toys or novelties.

The best keychain knives deliver performance that rivals full-sized blades while occupying less space than a house key. They cut through packaging, rope, fabric, and even emergencies with confidence. The right keychain knife eliminates the need for bulkier tools, freeing up pocket space while ensuring you’re never caught unprepared. Here are five exceptional options that prove size means nothing when design and engineering align perfectly.

1. ScytheBlade – The Titanium Reaper

The ScytheBlade reimagines what a micro knife can be. Its curved blade profile mirrors the Grim Reaper’s scythe, scaled down to a tiger-claw silhouette that looks as dangerous as it performs. At just 46mm when opened and weighing only 8 grams, this titanium-bodied EDC disappears on your keychain until needed. The curved blade geometry creates cutting angles that are impossible with straight designs, allowing for precise slicing through materials.

Who Is This Tool For?

The ScytheBlade suits minimalists who refuse to compromise on capability. If you appreciate clever design that combines form with function, this knife speaks your language. Urban professionals, travelers, and design enthusiasts will value its virtually weightless presence and premium titanium construction. Anyone tired of bulky pocket knives that ruin clothing lines needs this. The ScytheBlade proves you can carry serious cutting power without the bulk.

What we like

Titanium construction offers exceptional strength at only 8 grams.
Curved blade geometry provides unique cutting angles and superior slicing performance.

What we dislike

Ultra-compact 46mm length may feel small for users with larger hands.
Curved blade design requires a learning curve for traditional cutting tasks.

2. Berm Keychain Knife – The Tactical Flipper

The Berm measures just 2.66 inches closed—literally thumb-sized—yet deploys a serious 1.5-inch blade with flipper action. Its titanium-nitride-coated stainless steel blade cuts cleanly through paracord, seatbelts, and tough materials without hesitation. The G10 composite handle provides exceptional grip despite its diminutive size, while the sheepsfoot blade profile prevents accidental piercing. Weighing 77 grams, it’s substantial enough to feel quality without dragging down your keychain or adding noticeable pocket weight.

Who Is This Tool For?

Outdoor enthusiasts and urban adventurers need the Berm. If you frequently work with rope, packaging, or need quick-deploy cutting tools, this flipper design delivers. The grippy G10 handle makes it perfect for users who work with gloves or in wet conditions. Emergency preparedness advocates will appreciate the seatbelt-cutting capability. Anyone who values one-handed operation and modern flipper mechanics over traditional folder designs belongs here.

What we like

Titanium-nitride coating adds durability and corrosion resistance to the blade.
G10 composite handle delivers exceptional grip in wet or gloved conditions.

What we dislike

77-gram weight makes it heavier than ultra-minimalist alternatives.
The flipper mechanism requires a break-in period for smooth one-handed deployment.

3. Spyderco Bug – The Micro Classic

Spyderco’s Bug represents the smallest folder in their legendary lineup, yet maintains full functionality. The 3Cr13 stainless steel blade opens via Spyderco’s signature Round Hole—far more intuitive than traditional nail nicks. Its stainless steel handle offers a flat surface perfect for engraving, transforming this tool into personalized jewelry or meaningful gifts. The lanyard hole accommodates chains for neck wear or keychain attachment. This micro slipjoint proves that traditional design can be compact without losing its purpose.

Who Is This Tool For?

Collectors and gift-givers find the Bug irresistible. If you appreciate Spyderco’s heritage and want their DNA in keychain form, this delivers authenticity. The engravable handle attracts people seeking personalized EDC or meaningful presents for knife enthusiasts. Minimalists who prefer classic slipjoint mechanics over modern locking folders will appreciate its simplicity. Anyone valuing brand legacy in an ultra-compact package needs the Bug on their keychain.

What we like

Spyderco’s signature Round Hole provides easier blade deployment than nail nicks.
Flat stainless steel handle accepts engraving for personalization and gift customization.

What we dislike

3Cr13 steel requires more frequent sharpening compared to premium blade materials.
Slipjoint design lacks the locking mechanism found in modern folders.

4. CRKT ExiTool – The Emergency Specialist

Custom maker Russ Kommer designed the ExiTool for one critical purpose: saving lives. This compact emergency tool cuts through seatbelts in seconds while its steel glass breaker shatters passenger windows during crises. The redesigned ergonomic shape attaches directly to seatbelts for instant deployment when emergencies strike. A safety cone covers the glass breaker tip during storage, protecting users and upholstery. The glass-reinforced handle provides durability and a textured grip when adrenaline makes hands shake.

Who Is This Tool For?

Safety-conscious drivers and first responders need the ExiTool within arm’s reach. If you carry emergency preparedness seriously, this tool belongs clipped to every vehicle seatbelt. Parents transporting children will sleep better knowing the extraction tools are ready. Rideshare drivers, road trip enthusiasts, and anyone spending significant time in vehicles should consider this essential equipment. The ExiTool suits people who hope they’ll never need it but refuse to be caught unprepared.

What we like

Dedicated seatbelt cutter and glass breaker handle specific emergency scenarios.
Seatbelt clip attachment ensures the tool remains accessible during actual emergencies.

What we dislike

Specialized emergency focus makes it less versatile for everyday cutting tasks.
The glass breaker tip requires a safety cover that must be removed before use.

5. Gerber Key Note – The Tanto Rebel

Gerber’s Key Note breaks every knife convention with its Tanto blade that’s wider than it’s long. The 1-inch blade initially seems limiting until you understand its double-edge geometry. The lower edge slices traditionally, while the upper edge runs nearly perpendicular, allowing forward or downward pressure while cutting. This unconventional design lets you combine sharp edges with brute force, applying body weight to tough materials. At barely larger than a house key, it disappears on keychains while maintaining surprising cutting capability.

Who Is This Tool For?

The Key Note appeals to users frustrated with tiny blades that can’t apply real pressure. If your cutting tasks involve stubborn packaging, thick cardboard, or materials requiring force, this Tanto design provides the leverage traditional micro blades lack. Design-forward individuals appreciate its unconventional approach to the keychain knife problem. Anyone needing to press down or forward while cutting—think opening sealed boxes—will immediately understand this blade’s advantage over standard profiles.

What we like

Double-edge Tanto design allows pressure application from multiple angles during cutting.
Ultra-compact 1-inch blade length makes it smaller than traditional keychain knives.

What we dislike

Unconventional blade shape requires an adjustment period for users expecting traditional profiles.
Short blade length limits reach for some cutting tasks despite excellent leverage.

The Keychain Revolution

These five knives prove that everyday carry has evolved past bulky pocket knives that ruin clothing lines and weigh down your gear. Modern metallurgy, clever design, and engineering precision deliver cutting performance that once required full-sized tools. Whether you prioritize titanium construction, emergency preparedness, brand heritage, tactical flippers, or unconventional blade geometry, your perfect keychain knife exists in this collection.

The right choice disappears until needed, then performs flawlessly when called upon. Your pockets stay light, your toolkit shrinks, and you’re never caught without a sharp edge. These aren’t backup knives or compromises—they’re purpose-built cutting tools that respect your space while exceeding expectations. Choose based on your daily carry philosophy, then enjoy the freedom of traveling light without sacrificing capability.

The post 5 Best Keychain Knives That Cut Through Anything & Weigh Nothing first appeared on Yanko Design.

Oct
13

By

What we learned when Design Week met Warrington

Category: Design Week

Thanks to the support of GF Smith, we are heading out across the UK over the coming months to find out what designers really think – hopes, fears, challenges, and everything in between.

We kicked things off last week in Warrington, where we were thrilled to be joined by designers from different disciplines and at different stages of their careers.

Here are some of the things we heard, presented anonymously to make sure people could be as honest as they wanted to be!

Our Design Week Meets Warrington event

Brand is back baby

According to the brand designers that came along, this is a good time to be working in that space. “Brand is firmly back on the table after a period of obsession around performance marketing,” one designer said.

That said, the pressure is on to make sure this longer-term brand thinking is presented and developed in the right way.

“The value of brand is rooted in the why and the how,” one designer said. “Designers have to get better at building a story.”

AI, obviously

While AI is obviously going to crop up in any discussion about the current state of design, we were struck by the overall optimism around it. There are clearly nerves, but on the whole, the designers we met didn’t seem existentially concerned that it signals the end of their profession as we know it.

“Most of us are already using AI, and we are quietly confident it won’t replace our jobs just yet,” one person told us. “If anything, it still has a way to go!”

Our Design Week Meets Warrington event

Another said there is a general acknowledgement that it’s not going away.

“And so perhaps the right attitude is to view it as a tool that can assist with boring repetitive tasks, freeing up more time for creative thinking and design, especially in small teams and businesses.”

Know your worth

But, perhaps linked to the AI issue, there was a feeling that designers need to get better at protecting and communicating what they bring to the table.

“How do we show businesses the amount of time it takes to do something?” one person said. “How do we communicate that value?”

There was a sense that, compared to other creatives, designers are perhaps less precious, too open to critique and, in some cases, too quick to be reduced to service-providers. “We don’t value our skills enough,” one designer said.

Our Design Week Meets Warrington event

For one attendee, part of the solution to this problem is reasonably straightforward. “Design needs professional standards, like plumbers,” they said. “And people should only be able to get work if they can show they meet those criteria.”

The squeeze on junior roles

There was a sense that entry-level and more junior design jobs are under pressure. There a few things feeding in here – from remote and hybrid set-ups which make it harder to train and mentor younger staff, to a focus on short-term outputs giving early-career designers less room to learn.

One thing that cropped up in several guises was the changing nature of job descriptions for junior roles. It was pointed out that many of these now require a level of experience that makes them anything but entry-level.

And not only that, these jobs sometimes require a range of skillsets that go way beyond design, and expect applicants to be strategists, content creators and copywriters as well as designers.

One attendee wondered whether career paths are set to change forever, whether “people will ‘pass through’ design in the future, rather than spending 20 years+ there.”

Our Design Week Meets Warrington event

Take a beat

“Design seems to be in a rush to get where it’s going, even if we don’t really know where that is.”

This line summed up a sense that the industry can feel pretty panicky right now. There was definitely an appetite for more intentional, constructive discussion, as opposed to attention-grabbing, black-and-white pronouncements (“Agencies are dead!”) that don’t seem to help anyone.

And maybe listening is as important as talking.

“I have been quite contemplative today about how polarised my thinking has become,” one attendee said. “It’s great to talk to others, who have such different experiences, so that you can challenge your own thinking.”

More dogs at design events

No further details needed.

Our Design Week Meets Warrington event

Thanks again to GF Smith for supporting this series. We’re heading to Hull and Middlesborough for our next events – keep an eye on the site and our socials for details.

Our Design Week Meets Warrington event
Our Design Week Meets Warrington event
Our Design Week Meets Warrington event

Source

Oct
13

By

A’ design award and competition 2026 sparks joy with playful industrial design winners

Category: Design Boom

industrial design takes the a’ design award 2026 spotlight

 

The internationally acclaimed A’ Design Award and Competition extends its open call for submissions, inviting creatives to present their most compelling works for the upcoming judging period. The award celebrates and promotes exceptional designs across all disciplines, with a core mission to foster worldwide appreciation for innovation. The submission deadline for 2026 is February 28, with winners announced on May 1st. Among the competition’s most vibrant categories is Good Industrial Design, which celebrates objects that marry utility with aesthetic charm. A curated selection of past laureates proves that industrial design should be more than just functional; it should be joyful. These winning pieces, from playful lighting to fun homeware and clever toys, showcase the transformative power of design that sparks a smile.

 

Designers are encouraged to submit their own visionary creations that push creative boundaries and contribute to the evolution of the home here.

Nostalx Speaker by Yuqing Xiao, Menghai Xia and Siyu Zang

image credit: Yuqing Xiao

 

name: Nostalx

designers: Yuqing Xiao, Siyu Zang, Menghai Xia, Weijing Zhao, Qijun Nie

category: Digital and Electronic Device Design

award: Bronze

year: 2025

 

 

OVER 150 CATEGORIES are open to submissions

 

The Award’s Good Industrial Design super category is a testament to the idea that our daily objects deserve thoughtful, inspiring design. This focus allows for the recognition of products that bring delight into the domestic sphere, making life easier and more enjoyable. Beyond these product-focused categories, the A’ Design Award is open to submissions from across a wide spectrum of creative fields. Winning entries are celebrated across disciplines from architecture and fashion to communication design. Further categories are available here.

U Table Lamp by Monica Pinto de Almeida

image credit: Tiago Costa

 

name: U Lamp

designer: Monica Pinto de Almeida

category: Lighting Products and Fixtures Design

award: Silver

year: 2023

 

 

the perks of winning the a’ design award 2026

 

Winning the A’ Design Award offers more than just recognition, it provides a substantial boost to a designer’s career and brand visibility. Laureates gain unparalleled exposure through international exhibitions of their work, features in leading design publications, and inclusion in an exclusive yearbook. Winners are also invited to high-profile networking events like the award gala-night.

 

The extensive A’ Design Prize also encompasses inclusion in the prestigious World Design Rankings, project translations into over 100 languages, and widespread PR services. Each submission is meticulously reviewed by a distinguished Grand Jury Panel, composed of over 300 esteemed professionals, academics, and industry experts, ensuring that only the most innovative and impactful designs are recognized for their excellence and capacity to inject joy into the world.

Color Roller Furniture Set by Chuheng He

image credit: Chuheng He

 

name: Color Roller

designer: Chuheng He

category: Furniture Design

award: Gold

year: 2025

Hug Me Sitting by Zipeng Zhou

image credit: Zipeng Zhou

 

name: Hug Me

designers: Zipeng Zhou

category: Furniture Design

award: Gold

year: 2025

Altocumulus Light Lamp by Jun Wang

image credit: Jun Wang

 

name: Altocumulus Light

designers: Zhenghua Hu, Yuxi Mao, Jiangyang Zhao, Xin Wang and Yang Yang

category: Lighting Products and Fixtures Design

award: Bronze

year: 2023

Honey Drop Lighting by Akira Nakagomi

image credit: Takanori Urata

name: Honey Drop

designer: Akira Nakagomi

category: Lighting Products and Fixtures Design

award: Platinum

year: 2023

PIXIO Magnetic Construction Set by Ivan Khalus and Oleh Berezovskyi

image credit: PIXIO

 

name: PIXIO

designers: Ivan Khalus and Oleh Berezovskyi

category: Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design

award: Platinum

year: 2018

Inside Out Toy Furniture by Nao Fujimura

image credit: Nao Fujimura

 

name: Inside Out

designer: Nao Fujimura

category: Baby, Kids’ and Children’s Products Design

award: Bronze

year: 2025

Una Corda Piano Acoustic Piano by Davids Klavins

image credit: Davids Klavins

 

name: Una Corda Piano

designer: Davids Klavins

category: Musical Instruments Design

award: Silver

year: 2021

Eureka Lounge Chair by Beijing Yeak Tech Co. Ltd.

image credit: Beijing Yeak Tech Co. Ltd.

 

name: Eureka

designer: Huile Yi and Zulong Liu

category: Furniture Design

award: Platinum

year: 2023

Dudo Synthetic Music Enlightenment Toys by Hsin Chen Lin and Zi Yun Hsu

image credit: Hsin Chen Lin and Zi Yun Hsu

 

name: Dudo

designers: Hsin Chen Lin and Zi Yun Hsu

category: Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design

award: Silver

year: 2023

Scacco Matto Portable Lamp by Francesco Cappuccio

image credit: Francesco Cappuccio

 

name: Scacco Matto

designer: Francesco Cappuccio

category: Lighting Products and Fixtures Design

award: Silver

year: 2023

Musipple Music Player by Ziqiang He, Hao Zhang and Yunan Lin

image credit: Ziqiang He

 

name: Amplification of Sensation

designers: Ziqiang He, Hao Zhang, Yunan Lin, Sihong Chen and Yue Gao

category: Audio and Sound Equipment Design

award: Bronze

year: 2024

Twiny Multifunctional Sofa by Yu Ren

image credit: Yu Ren

 

name: Twiny

designers: Yu Ren and Nurettin Badur

category: Furniture Design

award: Silver

year: 2025

Fan Control Terminal by Hdl Automation Co., Ltd.

image credit:Hdl Automation Co., Ltd.

 

name: Fan

designers: Jin Huang, Wenbin Chen, Daying Gao, Dongchang Li, Xiujuan Chen, Yang Liu

category: Digital and Electronic Device Design

award: Bronze

year: 2025

Coral Scratcher Pet Toy by Hangzhou Owls Technology Co., Ltd.

image credit: Hangzhou Owls Technology Co., Ltd.

 

name: Coral Scratcher

designers: Jianjun Le and Yanlin Zhu

category: Pet Care, Toys, Supplies and Products for Animals Design

award: Silver

year: 2025

Imaginator Imagination Game Cards by Neringa Orlenok

image credit: Karolis Milaševičius

 

name: Imaginator

designer: Neringa Orlenok

category: Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design

award: Silver

year: 2022

Mila 3D Printed Vase by Industrial Design College of LAFA

image credit: Du Heli, Li Yuankai and Xue Bomu

 

name: Mila

designers: Du Heli, Li Yuankai and Xue Bomu

category: 3D Printed Forms and Products Design

award: Silver

year: 2023

Wobbleshroom Ankle Rehabilitative Product by Minkyu Seo

image credit: Minkyu Seo

 

name: Wobbleshroom

designer: Minkyu Seo

category: Sporting Goods, Fitness and Recreation Equipment Design

award: Bronze

year: 2022

Cobble Bluetooth Speaker by Eric Wu

image credit: Eric Wu

 

name: Cobble

designer: Eric Wu

category: Digital and Electronic Device Design

award: Iron

year: 2025

 

 

See more award-winning design here!

The post A’ design award and competition 2026 sparks joy with playful industrial design winners appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Oct
13

By

rotatable yamaha MOTOROiD:Λ motorcycle can twist to 180-degree position while cruising

Category: Design Boom

self-stabilizing rotatable yamaha MOTOROiD:Λ motorcycle

 

Yamaha introduces MOTOROiD:Λ, a concept electric motorcycle that can twist 180-degree position while cruising. A follow-up to the MOTOROiD2 project back in 2023, the two-wheeler is set to grace the Japan Mobility Show 2025 at Tokyo Big Sight from October 29th to November 9th. Here, viewers can see the arch-like frame of the ride connecting the two parts of its body, which allows for the rear part to twist sideways during and after cruising. Since it takes after its sibling, the rotatable Yamaha MOTOROiD:Λ motorcycle can also bring back itself to its original position without the rider’s help. It uses AI to control its movement, and the system adjusts the vehicle’s balance and turns as well as collects data on how it performs on the road so it can improve itself.

 

In this case, the vehicle learns from its own patterns and, on top of that, learns from the cruising habits of its owners. The next time it finds itself on the road, the machine can make decisions on its own, meaning how fast it goes, how much braking it needs when it turns, and if it should balance itself while turning, all without the rider’s help. Aside from this machine-learning ability, it is its lightweight and bendable exoskeleton frame that steals the limelight for this model. This frame is built to handle the stress of training sessions and movement tests, and the exoskeleton design helps the vehicle maintain its balance when standing or moving without a rider.

all images courtesy of Yamaha Motor Corporation

 

 

exposed body frame connects the front and rear wheels

 

The rotatable Yamaha MOTOROiD:Λ motorcycle has a minimal structure that connects the front and rear wheels through an exposed body frame. The body holds sensors, control units, and the power system, and the sensors help the vehicle read its surroundings and maintain its posture. The electric power unit is placed near the wheel hubs, which allows for better balance and direct control, and the wheels use hub motors that combine motor and braking systems into one compact part. This setup helps the vehicle stay stable and respond quickly to movements.

 

The AI system is the key part of the ride since it observes the position of the vehicle, the tilt angle, and external conditions such as ground level. Based on this input, the AI makes real-time adjustments, with the system correcting the balance automatically when it starts to fall or when it encounters uneven ground. The structure also includes motion arms that act as supports when the motorcycle lifts itself or adjusts position. These parts move with precision, guided by the AI’s motion-control algorithms, and over time, the system developed in-house by the company becomes more efficient at handling different types of movement.

Yamaha introduces MOTOROiD:Λ, a rotatable concept electric motorcycle

 

 

Yamaha also unveil wheelchairs and autocycles

 

Aside from the rotatable Yamaha MOTOROiD:Λ motorcycle, the company brings out several other concept rides at Japan Mobility Show 2025. There’s a three-wheel electric autocycle named Tricera, with a system that allows all three wheels to turn and helps with movement during cornering. The PROTO BEV is an electric motorcycle built to test a large-capacity battery. It also uses a sound system that helps the rider sense the bike’s activity through audio cues. The H2 Buddy Porter Concept is a hydrogen-engine motorcycle co-developed with Toyota Motor Corporation, and the Y-00B: Base is an eBike concept with a slim dual twin frame. There’s a version named Y-00B: Bricolage, which is the customized version marking Yamaha’s 70th anniversary.

 

The PROTO HEV is a hybrid motorcycle using both an electric motor and a gasoline engine, so the rider can switch between quiet urban riding and powerful road performance. The PROTO PHEV is another hybrid model, meaning it can run fully on electric power or in hybrid mode. Yamaha isn’t just showing motorcycles like the rotatable MOTOROiD:Λ during the event; there’s also the NACTUS VS TRE-X, a three-wheeled electric wheelchair with large 26-inch off-road tires, which uses its electric assist unit and can travel on uneven or unpaved surfaces. The ONE-MAX Urban and ONE-MAX Historical are also present, a couple electric wheelchairs with a compact frame, a seat design to reduce fatigue, a small storage box, and an accessory bar. The Historical version is made for historic areas with cobblestone or temple grounds, using a stable chassis and leather-like seat.

the flexible exoskeleton frame connects all the body parts

view of Tricera, a three-wheel electric autocycle

the rear wheel of Tricer can move sideways

view of ONE-MAX Urban electric wheelchair

view of NACTUS VS TRE-X, a three-wheeled electric wheelchair

 

project info:

 

name: MOTOROiD:Λ

company: Yamaha Motor Corporation | @yamahamotoreu, @yamahamotorusa
event: Japan Mobility Show 2025 

dates: October 29th to November 9th, 2025

The post rotatable yamaha MOTOROiD:Λ motorcycle can twist to 180-degree position while cruising appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Oct
13

By

herzog & de meuron leads adaptive reuse proposal for future arena complex in sweden

Category: Design Boom

Under samma tak: A Proposal to Unite Sports and Culture

 

Herzog & de Meuron, together with Marge Arkitekter, propose Under samma tak (Under the Same Roof) for Göteborg’s new arena district in Sweden, a future-oriented, experience-driven landmark designed to evolve with the city. The project is designed to accommodate civic life and large-scale events, integrating urban rhythm, collective spaces, and sustainable design strategies through adaptive transformation, circular construction, and ambitious climate goals. Developed as part of an international competition that also included proposals by White Arkitekter with Allies & Morrison, whose Meet Gothenburg entry was selected as the winning scheme, Populous with Okidoki Architects, Semrén & Månsson with GMP International, and CF Møller with Olsson Lyckfors, the project positions reuse and flexibility at the center of its architectural response.

 

Under samma tak reflects a deep appreciation for Göteborg’s architectural heritage, especially the city’s iconic Scandinavium arena. The team proposes an inventive reuse strategy that retains half of the original structure. The existing oval geometry becomes the foundation for a new, circular main arena that expands capacity while preserving identity. By raising the arena floor, inserting a practice rink below, and adding a vast LED screen, the design transforms Scandinavium into a semi-open amphitheater capable of hosting new event formats. 

all images via Göteborgs Stad, unless stated otherwise

 

 

Herzog & de Meuron Shape an Open and Green Urban Landmark

 

The architects at Herzog & de Meuron and Marge Arkitekter calibrate building heights to respond to the context, aligning with Svenska Mässan to the south and tapering down toward Gårda in the east. A brick-clad plinth with rounded volumes and slender columns defines a welcoming urban edge, while generous staircases and open terraces invite pedestrians upward into the heart of the complex. Active ground floors and transparent facades connect the arenas with the surrounding streets, keeping the area lively even when no events are happening.

 

Above, a large accessible roof park reintroduces green public space to the dense event district. This elevated landscape, connected by stairs, elevators, and escalators, acts as both a community hub and an extension of the event experience. Designed for year-round use, the park accommodates informal sports, outdoor markets, and leisure paths, turning the arenas into an everyday urban destination. Environmentally, the green roof contributes to stormwater management, insulation, and biodiversity.

 

Completing the composition is a new hotel tower positioned near Korsvägen that serves as a visible landmark from key approach routes, including the highway and the main transit hub of the city. Its curved facade embraces the landscape below, softening its visual impact while anchoring the western edge of the development. Designed for flexibility, the tower can host both 3- and 4-star hotel functions and later adapt to housing or office uses without obstructing views from Svenska Mässan’s existing hotel.

a future-oriented, experience-driven landmark designed to evolve with the city

 

 

A Diverse Field of Visions for Göteborg’s Arena District

 

The arena district competition attracted a diverse range of architectural visions, each proposing a different approach to renewing Göteborg’s event hub. The winning entry, Meet Gothenburg by White Arkitekter in collaboration with Allies & Morrison, Arup International, Stadia Design, and Sweco Sverige, was announced by the jury on September 30th, 2025. Other proposals include Populous, Okidoki Architects, and WSP’s Hör & häpna (Hear & Be Amazed), Semrén & Månsson with GMP International GmbH’s Omfamna arvet (Embrace the Heritage), which came in second place, and CF Möller, Olsson Lyckfors, SBP, and Mareld’s Vingslag (Wing Strike). The competition brief covered a multi-arena replacing Scandinavium, a smaller arena replacing Lisebergshallen, a training rink, logistics and support facilities, an inner arena square, a hotel, and extensive public spaces, with each entry interpreting the site and program requirements through its own architectural language.

the project is designed to accommodate civic life and large-scale events

the team proposes an inventive reuse strategy that retains half of the Scandinavium arena structure

the project positions reuse and flexibility at the center of its architectural response | image via @margearkitekter

a large accessible roof park reintroduces green public space to the dense event district

Meet Gothenburg winning entry by White Arkitekter in collaboration with Allies & Morrison, Arup International, Stadia Design, and Sweco Sverige

Vingslag by CF Møller, Olsson Lyckefors, HOK, sbp, Mareld

Hör & häpna by Populous, Okidoki, WSP

Omfamna arvet by Semrén & Månsson Arkitekter AB i samarbete med GMP International GmbH

 

 

project info:

 

name: Under samma tak (Under the Same Roof)

architects: Herzog & de Meuron | @herzogdemeuron, Marge Arkitekter | @margearkitekter

location: Göteborg, Sweden

 

client: City of Göteborg

The post herzog & de meuron leads adaptive reuse proposal for future arena complex in sweden appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Oct
13

By

“Designers need to think more like artists”

Category: Design Week

Many people think the sole purpose of graphic design is to solve problems and that art is all about self-expression. But I’ve never subscribed to the idea that design and art are intrinsically different.

The lines between great design and art have always been blurred. The Bauhaus unified artistic vision, mass production and function to shape the modern discipline of design. And there’s unforgettable artistry in the work of design pioneers like Otl Aicher, Gerd Arntz, Saul Bass, Alan Fletcher, Milton Glaser and Paul Rand.

Art is fundamentally about reflecting human experience and society. Great design resonates with people because it is culturally and emotionally meaningful.

Design is one of the most influential art forms

We tend to think of art as something far removed from the ‘real world’ but in his book, A Designer’s Art, Paul Rand said, “Design can be art. Design can be aesthetics.”

Graphic design is one of the most influential art forms. It’s part and parcel of nearly every aspect of people’s lives. It informs and inspires us.

John Spencer’s Blurred Lines book

And design is a vital ingredient in all effective marketing but over-reliance on market research, focus groups, performance metrics and the need for quantifiable, measurable results encourages safe, formulaic design.

As advertising legend Bill Bernbach said, “Rules are what the artist breaks; the memorable never emerged from a formula.”

The increasing dominance of short-term marketing-focused goals and fear of a backlash against bold ideas stifles originality. We need to be more assertive and not allow what we do to be hindered by client expectations, groupthink and data-driven decisions.

The borderland where design meets art

We need to think more like artists, expand our experiences, challenge conventional thinking, and breathe emotional resonance into our work. Artistic thinking allows us to observe with a critical eye, bring fresh perspectives, and create work that’s grounded in meaning.

A spread in John Spencer’s Blurred Lines book

Designers who work in the borderland where design meets art are all about breaking free from established views, exploration and risk-taking. They’re loath to churn out stuff that’s hackneyed and forgettable.

When designers think like artists, they’re thinking about how their work touches people, not just about how it functions.

Fight against the ugliness

Massimo Vignelli believed, “The life of a designer is a life of fight: fight against the ugliness.” He went on to define ugliness not just as a visual quality but as products that fail to be both aesthetically pleasing and functionally solve a problem.

He was on a mission to bring order, beauty, and functionality to the world, using it to combat mediocrity, blandness and poor design. Saul Bass said, “I want to make beautiful things, even if nobody cares, as opposed to ugly things. That’s my intent.”

A shift in perspective, embracing artistic thinking, can lead to transformative results, not only making design more useful and impactful, but a thing of beauty too. For me, beautiful design isn’t a luxury – it’s a strategic necessity. It isn’t about prettiness, it’s about clarity, harmony and resonance.

Transform the functional into the memorable

The most influential graphic design comes from embracing the subjective, emotional and boundary-pushing aspects of the way artists think. It has the capacity to translate values and ambitions into visual experiences that linger long after the first encounter, and to achieve what Milton Glaser called the “wow response.”

It transforms the functional into the memorable.

A spread in John Spencer’s Blurred Lines book

As Stefan Sagmeister said, “You can have an art experience in front of a Rembrandt… or in front of a piece of graphic design.” Design not only needs to do its job, but it ought to resonate emotionally and intellectually too.

Design and art are two voices in an ongoing conversation – one that adapts to context, purpose and audience.

When they come together the result is work that not only communicates but provokes, inviting people to question the conventions that have traditionally separated design from art.

The most memorable design often arises from these liminal spaces where certainty gives way to experimentation and constraint becomes a springboard for invention.

Celebrate the interconnectedness

Without human oversight generative AI will hasten the drift towards predictable, algorithm-friendly, boring design. The upshot of its reliance on existing data is a “feedback loop” of increasingly standardised work that prioritises aesthetics over authentic meaning.

Our willingness to celebrate the interconnectedness of design and art and embrace the blurred lines that exist between those worlds is now more important than ever, because it’ll give our work human insight, context and emotional depth.

John Spencer is a graphic designer and the founder of design agency Offthetopofmyhead. He is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a member of the International Society of Typographic Designers. His new book, Blurred Lines, is available here.

A spread in John Spencer’s Blurred Lines book
A spread in John Spencer’s Blurred Lines book

Source

« Older Posts
Newer Posts »