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spaces for listening: the architecture of japan’s jazz kissa documented in new book

Jazz Kissa: The Soul of Japanese Listening Culture

 

A new book by photographer Katsumasa Kusunose documents the enduring presence of jazz kissa, Japan’s distinctive jazz cafés characterized by intimate interior design for dedicated listening spaces. Titled Jazz Kissa: The Soul of Japanese Listening Culture, the book assembles more than fifteen years of Kusunose’s work, presenting these spaces as both inspiring interiors and cultural archives.

 

The publication arrives at a moment when interest in high-fidelity environments has reemerged globally (see Isern Serra’s take on the jazz kissa in Barcelona here, or Giorgia Longoni Studio’s in Milan here). Printed on Japanese paper designed to recall the texture of vintage Altec A7 speakers and bound with a traditional obi strip, the book itself embodies the attention to detail that defines the cafés it follows.

‘Kissa’ translates to ‘café’ in Japanese | images courtesy ERG Media

 

 

spaces designed for listening

 

Katsumasa Kusunose’s new book highlights the architectural qualities that distinguish Japan’s jazz kissa from conventional cafés. As documented by the photographer, rooms are often dimly lit, framed by shelves of records and dominated by speaker systems that dictate spatial arrangement. Seating tends to be oriented toward the sound system rather than social interaction. It reflects a design ethos in which architecture, furniture, and acoustics merge into a unified listening experience.

 

As artist Devon Turnbull writes in the foreword:From the outside, they often appear unassuming, perhaps just a simple roadside cafe in a small town. But the moment you walk through the door, you’re transported into the spirit of the Village Vanguard or Birdland [jazz clubs].’ 

the book documents the intimate architecture of Japanese jazz kissa

 

 

interiors informed by atmosphere and sound

 

The jazz kissa interiors captured by the Japan-based photographer are deeply personal spaces, shaped by the taste and technical knowledge of their owners. Bars, tables, and booths are often built around large speaker enclosures, tube amplifiers, and reel-to-reel decks, turning equipment into part of the architecture itself. The weight of wood paneling, the patina of tobacco smoke, and the low ceilings contribute to a spatial intimacy that favors absorption in music over casual chatter.

 

Turnbull notes that each café represents a ‘deeply personal creation, infused with the owner’s distinct sub signature,’ emphasizing how the layering of design decisions produces an atmosphere that is at once idiosyncratic and consistent across the typology.

photographer Katsumasa Kusunose spent over fifteen years capturing these spaces

 

 

the cultural significance of the kissa in japan

 

Jazz kissa emerged in postwar Japan, reaching their height during the 1960s and 1970s. At the time, imported records were scarce, and live performances even rarer. These cafés became sites of cultural transmission, where Japanese musicians and listeners encountered the latest recordings. Kusunose’s book situates them as architectural embodiments of a broader cultural movement, or spaces where design served a social and educational role as much as an aesthetic one.

 

Although many original cafés have closed, Kusunose’s images also document newer establishments led by younger owners. His work suggests that the template of the jazz kissa (rooms built around listening) will continue to inspire contemporary designers and listeners.

the cafés are designed with sound systems as the focal point of the interior

dim lighting, wood paneling, and record shelves shape their atmosphere

equipment like speakers and tube amplifiers becomes part of the architecture

artist Devon Turnbull describes each café as a deeply personal creation

jazz kissa once served as cultural hubs when live performances were scarce

 

project info:

 

title: Jazz Kissa: The Soul of Japanese Listening Culture

photographer: Katsumasa Kusunose | @jazz_kissa

publisher: ERG Media | @erg.media

foreword: Devon Turnbull | @devonojas

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Dot is DoorDash’s new automated delivery service that wants to change food delivery

I live in a country where deliveries, whether they’re goods or food, are pretty common. You see a ton of motorcycles on the road and most of them are either ride-sharing or door-to-door delivery. It of course adds to the traffic congestion in an already notoriously congested city. But if you live in a place where that is not a problem, you probably are looking forward to the day when automated delivery will be a part of the normal, every day life.

DoorDash has unveiled its latest innovation in food delivery technology: Dot, an autonomous sidewalk robot designed to bring your favorite meals directly to your doorstep. As the demand for faster and more efficient delivery grows in cities, DoorDash is stepping up with a futuristic solution that aims to make local deliveries safer, greener, and more convenient than ever. There have been some issues with automated deliveries in some places but DoorDash believes their own cute robot will solve these problems.

Designer Name: DoorDash

Dot is a small, electric-powered robot that travels along city sidewalks, using advanced sensors and cameras to safely navigate busy streets and avoid obstacles. Its mission is simple: get your food to you quickly and securely, while reducing the need for cars and cutting down on emissions. Dot is part of DoorDash’s broader commitment to sustainability and innovation, seeking to provide both customers and restaurants with a smarter way to deliver.

When you place an order on DoorDash in select neighborhoods, there’s a chance Dot could be on the way. The robot is designed to handle short-distance deliveries, making it ideal for dense urban areas where traffic congestion and parking are major challenges. Once Dot arrives at your address, you’ll receive a notification on your phone. To collect your order, you simply use your device to unlock the robot’s secure compartment, ensuring that your food stays safe and untouched during transit.

One of the most impressive features of Dot is its ability to operate in a range of weather conditions. Whether it’s raining, snowing, or just a regular sunny day, Dot is built to keep your order protected and on schedule. This reliability makes it a strong contender for year-round delivery, helping restaurants and customers alike avoid delays no matter what the weather brings. Security is also a top priority for DoorDash’s new robot. Dot is equipped with a locked cargo area that only the customer can access, reducing the risk of theft or tampering. The robot’s design is meant to be friendly and approachable, blending in with city life while still standing out enough that customers know their order is in good hands.

By introducing Dot, DoorDash hopes to support its human delivery drivers, especially during busy hours or for quick, local trips that might not be as efficient for cars. Rather than replacing jobs, Dot is intended to complement the workforce, making the entire delivery network more responsive and flexible. As cities continue to grow and evolve, so does the need for innovative delivery solutions that are both efficient and environmentally conscious. Dot is DoorDash’s answer to this challenge, bringing together the latest in robotics, AI, and sustainable design. It’s a glimpse into the future of food delivery where technology and convenience go hand in hand.

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World’s First Hollow-Body Concrete Guitar Weighs 20 Pounds and Plays Like a Dream

Rob Scallon and Mike from Morley Maker just built a hollow-body concrete guitar that actually works, and I’m sitting here wondering what other materials can we just randomly turn into guitars. Sure, concrete guitars do exist in the novelty space (they aren’t a new idea), but they’re typically solid slabs that weigh somewhere between 80 and 90 pounds, which makes them less “playable instrument” and more “sculptural middle finger to ergonomics.” What these two pulled off is different. They engineered a semi-hollow body with 3/8 inch concrete walls, kept the whole thing under 20 pounds (19.8 to be exact), and somehow nailed the intonation without any adjustments. That last part alone tells you everything about how precise the build had to be.

The skepticism going into this was justified. Mike admitted he wasn’t sure the thin walls would hold, and Rob straight-up said he didn’t think it would work. But here’s where the materials science gets interesting. They used a self-leveling concrete mix with plasticizers for viscosity control, then reinforced the whole structure with glass fiber scrim and PVA fibers. The fibers do the heavy lifting here, literally holding the thin concrete together and preventing the kind of catastrophic cracking you’d expect from something this delicate. The embedded wood components stay in the final build, which adds another layer of structural integrity. The form itself was a nightmare of precision: CNC-machined melamine base, 3D-printed F-holes, foam knockouts for the pickup cavities and hollow body chamber, all designed to create exact registration points for neck pocket alignment. Get any of that wrong and you’ve got an expensive paperweight.

Designers: Rob Scallon & Modustrial Maker

The build process looks deceptively simple on paper but the execution window is razor-thin. They’re working with a material that cures to 50% strength in two days and hits 90%+ by day seven, so there’s no room for “let me just adjust this real quick” halfway through. The neck pocket had to be machined so precisely that the finished guitar can be held by the neck alone without the body sliding off… that’s not just tight tolerances, that’s obsessive-level accuracy. They spent 6 to 8 hours on wet sanding alone because concrete at partial cure is unforgiving. Too aggressive and you compromise structural integrity. Too gentle and you’re there all week. The acetone bath for dissolving the foam forms is clever but expensive, and watching them chip away at melamine while hoping the thin concrete walls don’t spiderweb must have been nerve-wracking.

What surprised me is how well this thing actually plays. Zero fret buzz, clean intonation across the fretboard, proper action right out of the gate. The acoustic resonance from the hollow body is minimal but present, which makes sense given that concrete has completely different harmonic properties than wood. The sustain is solid, tone is there, and it handles everything from clean to heavy distortion without falling apart sonically. Rob played it in standard tuning and drop C, and the neck stability actually improved because of the weight distribution. Your shoulder might hate you after a 45-minute set, but your fretting hand gets an unusually stable platform. The weight is the obvious compromise: at nearly 20 pounds, this is double what a heavy Les Paul would clock in at. But compared to the 80-pound concrete bricks that usually show up in these novelty builds, it’s practically svelte.

The cost breakdown is wild when you consider what they achieved. Fifty bucks for the specialty concrete mix, $280 for hardware and electronics, and a free Schecter neck. All in at $400 for what is genuinely the first functional hollow-body concrete guitar. That’s cheaper than plenty of mid-tier production guitars that don’t require you to understand materials engineering, CNC programming, and luthier-level precision. The custom “Creeker” branding is a nice touch, and the nickel humbuckers were the right choice for tone given the density of the body material. Ernie Ball strings are standard but they hold tune exactly as you’d expect, which again speaks to how dialed-in the neck pocket and bridge placement had to be.

The real test was whether this could survive as an actual instrument versus a proof-of-concept that gets one video and then lives on a shelf. Rob’s planning a full playthrough with drums and bass, which means he trusts it enough to track with. That’s the validation that matters. Concrete introduces all kinds of variables that wood doesn’t: different thermal expansion rates, brittleness under tension, unpredictable resonance characteristics. They accounted for all of it. The minor cracking that showed up near the pickup cavities got hidden under the magnets, which is practical problem-solving rather than trying to achieve impossible perfection. The fact that it plays this well without post-build setup is borderline miraculous.

Mike’s comment about platform performance is interesting too. His solar-powered dog house with a swimming pool went viral on Instagram and TikTok but bombed on YouTube, which tells you everything about how algorithm preferences and audience expectations fragment across platforms. YouTube wants longer narratives and build processes. Instagram and TikTok want the immediate visual payoff. This guitar project has both: the satisfying process and the undeniable “holy shit it actually works” moment. The collaboration between a high-profile musician and a maker with serious fabrication chops created something that neither could have pulled off solo. Rob brings the musical credibility and audience. Mike brings the materials knowledge and engineering precision. Together they built something genuinely novel that performs at a level nobody expected. That’s the kind of maker culture output that pushes boundaries instead of just retreading the same novelty builds we’ve seen a thousand times.

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This 1,836-Piece LEGO Gaming Rig Includes 3 Monitors and an Adjustable Gaming Chair

LEGO Ideas just got a submission that feels like someone finally decided to build the thing we’ve all been sitting in for the past decade. A gaming setup. Complete with an articulating chair, a desk, monitors, and apparently enough Technic pieces to make your wallet weep. The creator, Farerodealejandria, dropped this 1,836-piece beast on October 2nd, and while it’s only sitting at 50 supporters with 60 days left to hit the first milestone, the build itself is surprisingly thoughtful. Because here’s the thing: gaming culture has moved from niche hobby to mainstream infrastructure, and LEGO has been weirdly slow to acknowledge that shift beyond slapping Mario on some bricks and calling it a day.

The set clocks in at 32.5 x 34.7 x 32.6 cm overall, which puts it in that sweet spot between display piece and desk real estate hog. But the real engineering flex here is the adjustable chair. 613 pieces dedicated entirely to replicating a gaming throne, complete with rotation, backrest tilt, and height adjustment. That’s the kind of granular attention that separates a concept from something that could actually survive LEGO’s notoriously brutal review process. The creator admits this was the hardest part of the design, and honestly, you can see why. Gaming chairs are these weird Frankensteinian combinations of office ergonomics and race car aesthetics, and translating that into LEGO’s language of studs and Technic pins requires actual problem-solving, not just vibes.

Designer: Farerodealejandria

What stands out about this submission is how it sidesteps the usual trap of gaming merchandise, which tends to either fetishize nostalgia or lean so hard into “gamer aesthetic” that it becomes parody. This is a workspace. A corner. The kind of space that millions of people actually inhabit, whether they’re grinding ranked matches, streaming to three viewers, or just trying to finish Elden Ring before the DLC releases. The presentation leans heavy on the cultural significance angle, talking about skill development and social connection and cognitive benefits, which reads a bit like someone trying to justify their hobby to skeptical parents. But strip away the defensive framing and the core idea holds: gaming spaces have become legitimate creative and professional environments, and they deserve the same design consideration LEGO gives to architecture sets or the obscure modular buildings that AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO) lose their minds over.

“The most difficult part was creating the gamer chair, since it represents the entire set and is a real challenge since it includes the rotation system, backrest tilt, and raising and lowering the seat,” says LEGO builder Farerodealejandria. “The set consists of 1836 pieces… Of these, only the chair consists of 613 pieces.”

The 1,836-piece count puts it in the mid-tier range, somewhere between an impulse buy and a weekend project. Price-wise, if this hypothetically made it to production, you’d probably be looking at $150-200 based on current Ideas set pricing models. The real question is whether LEGO sees enough market potential in a set that celebrates the physical infrastructure of gaming rather than specific IP. Because let’s be real, LEGO loves a licensing deal. Minecraft, Mario, Sonic, Overwatch, they’ve all gotten the brick treatment. But a generic gaming corner? That requires LEGO to bet on the cultural moment rather than brand recognition, and their track record there is shakier.

Still, there’s something satisfying about seeing someone tackle the mundane reality of gaming culture instead of trying to build another pixelated sword or character model. We’ve got enough decorative tributes to games themselves. Maybe what we actually need is a LEGO set that acknowledges the space where gaming happens, complete with all the engineered ergonomics and cable management nightmares that entails. Whether LEGO agrees remains to be seen, but at least someone’s asking the question.

The LEGO Ideas submission’s weakness is its current support count. 51 as of writing this piece (including my own vote). The design needs to hit 100 supporters in 60 days just to stay in the game, then climb to 1,000, 5,000, and eventually 10,000 before LEGO even considers a review. Most submissions never make it past the first checkpoint, but most submissions don’t have what this one has – sheer brick-appeal. It’s detailed, functional, and represents its inspiration so faithfully it has a non-gamer like me hooked. And if you’re any more of a gamer than I am, go ahead and give the MOC (My Own Creation) your vote on the LEGO Ideas website!

The post This 1,836-Piece LEGO Gaming Rig Includes 3 Monitors and an Adjustable Gaming Chair first appeared on Yanko Design.

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autonomous robot charlotte 3D prints homes on earth and in space without using cement

autonomous robotic 3D printer charlotte builds on its own

 

Meet Charlotte, an autonomous robot with claws that can 3D print homes on Earth and in space without using any cement. Developed by Crest Robotics and Earthbuilt Technology, the machine uses local raw materials in constructing walls or exteriors. On Earth, it gathers sand, soil, and waste products such as crushed bricks. On the Moon, the system uses lunar regolith, which is the loose rock and dust on the surface. The collected materials are placed inside the fabric sleeves of the autonomous robotic 3D printer, and the system then compresses the filled sleeves to form strong layers. These layers, once stacked, strip by strip, build the walls of the home.

 

Charlotte is spider-like in shape, and the companies say it is lightweight and modular, given that the machine can be folded down for transport in rockets or by vehicles. Once deployed, the flexible legs make Charlotte agile enough to move and pump the materials out of it, which is deemed crucial by the teams when the device works on uneven surfaces like the lunar ground. The autonomous robotic 3D printer is also able to collect the materials itself, which it then compresses inside its body before it churns it out in specific zones or meters, set digitally before the extrusion.

all images courtesy of Crest Robotics and Earthbuilt Technology

 

 

machine that uses local soil or clean waste for less emissions

 

Crest Robotics and Earthbuilt Technology aim for Charlotte to complete a 200 square meter home in a single day. The robotics and technology companies attempt to remove steps from the supply chain to speed up the process. Usually, building a house requires processing cement and transporting bricks. In the autonomous robotic 3D printer’s case, Charlotte replaces this with one process: local raw materials go in, and finished structural walls come out. Instead of cement or fired bricks, the machine also uses local soil or clean waste, and by avoiding these two, the robot removes high-carbon industrial steps for near-zero emissions during construction. 

 

The machine’s approach also produces no waste material, such as offcuts or unused bricks. So far, the teams say that Charlotte is guided by digital plans, meaning it receives instructions directly from a digital design file. It prints the building layer by layer with accuracy, and because the system follows a digital model, there are fewer errors in measurement, and producing same-sized exteriors is consistent. At the present time, the companies are looking for collaborators to develop, test, and scale the autonomous robotic 3D printer. Project Charlotte is also present at the 76th International Astronautical Congress in Sydney, Australia, from September 29th to October 3rd, 2025.

meet Charlotte, an autonomous robot with claws that can 3D print homes without using any cement

the machine uses local raw materials in constructing walls or exteriors

on the Moon, the system uses lunar regolith, which is the loose rock and dust on the surface

Crest Robotics and Earthbuilt Technology aim for Charlotte to complete a 200 square meter home in a day

on Earth, the components the robot uses include sand, soil, and waste products such as crushed bricks

 

 

project info:

 

name: Charlotte

companies: Crest Robotics, Earthbuilt Technology | @crestrobotics

The post autonomous robot charlotte 3D prints homes on earth and in space without using cement appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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The Porsche Cayenne Electric Wants You to Forget Physical Buttons Exist

Porsche revealed the interior of its upcoming electric Cayenne on September 30, 2025, and I’m experiencing the kind of cognitive dissonance that only comes from loving something I fundamentally disagree with. The cabin features what the company calls the largest continuous digital surface in any Porsche to date. Translation: screens everywhere. As someone who prefers minimal dashboard clutter, I should hate this. But Porsche’s execution here is genuinely impressive, even if it represents everything wrong with modern automotive design philosophy.

Designer: Porsche

Let me be clear about my bias upfront. After reviewing vehicles for over a decade, I’ve developed a strong preference for physical controls. Give me a rotary dial for volume, actual buttons for climate control, and a small display for Apple CarPlay. That’s all I need. Everything else just creates more opportunities for distraction and frustration. The industry’s obsession with touchscreens has turned dashboards into iPad showrooms, and I’m tired of it. But then Porsche goes and creates something like this.

Three Layers of Interaction

Porsche’s approach to the Cayenne Electric interior centers on what I’d describe as three distinct interaction layers. First, there’s the glance layer: a 14.25-inch curved OLED instrument cluster that bends horizontally to favor the driver’s sightline, paired with an optional augmented-reality head-up display. This is information you consume without touching anything.

Second is the touch layer, anchored by what Porsche calls the Flow Display. This is where the interface design gets genuinely interesting, and where my skepticism starts to crack.

Third is the tactile layer: physical buttons for key functions that you use most frequently while driving. Temperature, fan speed, volume. The stuff that should never require diving through touchscreen menus when you’re moving at highway speeds.

This three-layer framework represents Porsche trying to reconcile driver focus with customer demand for integrated entertainment. Rather than creating a single wall of glass like some competitors, the brand is using curvature, AR guidance, and selective hard controls to maintain some connection to traditional cockpit ergonomics.

The Flow Display

Porsche’s Flow Display is the center of the Cayenne Electric’s interior story. It’s a curved OLED that drops from the dashboard toward the console, so your wrist meets the glass at a natural angle rather than an upright plane. The curve is functional for reach and for stabilizing taps on the lower interface zones. Directly ahead, the 14.25-inch curved OLED cluster bends along a different axis to favor the driver’s sightline, which keeps EV power, navigation, and assistance info legible at a glance.

Together they make the largest continuous digital surface Porsche has put in a production cabin, but the company still leaves physical buttons for key functions to reduce menu diving in motion. Five predefined color schemes can be applied across the cluster, Flow Display, and passenger screen through a Themes App, turning the software layer into part of the cabin’s material palette.

I’ve seen plenty of curved displays in vehicles over the years, from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class to the Cadillac Escalade. Most feel gimmicky, like the design team added curves just because they could. The Flow Display’s vertical curve actually serves a purpose. After years of stretching to tap screens in various test vehicles, I appreciate the thought behind meeting my fingers at a more comfortable angle. It’s a subtle detail, but one that suggests actual human factors testing rather than pure aesthetics.

The Themes App detail is worth noting because it shows Porsche treating digital surfaces as coordinated design elements rather than isolated screens. You’re not just picking a wallpaper. You’re establishing a visual language across the entire dashboard that integrates with your interior trim choices. For a brand that obsesses over material quality and color matching, this makes more sense than I’d like to admit.

When Two Screens Aren’t Enough

An optional 14.9-inch passenger display lets the right seat control media, apps, and navigation features, with video playback allowed while driving. Porsche says the setup avoids distracting the driver, and several reports add that a polarized layer limits visibility from the driver’s angle. Keep it for road trips and copilots who actually manage routes, otherwise it risks duplicating what phones already do better.

My personal preference would be to use my phone for entertainment content. It’s already configured with my accounts, my preferences, my content libraries. Why do I need a separate infotainment ecosystem that inevitably provides a worse user experience? But I recognize that many people want more integration, more seamless connectivity between their vehicle and their digital life. That’s the market speaking, and manufacturers are listening.

The augmented-reality head-up display projects guidance and speed into the driver’s forward view with an effective size of 8.7 inches. Use it if you like arrows on the road ahead. If you don’t, the curved cluster is already doing the glance work. I’ve used HUDs in countless vehicles, and my opinion on them remains unchanged. Some people swear by them. I find them distracting and unnecessary, one more piece of visual information competing for attention when you should be watching the road.

The Screen Debate

Stephan Durach, BMW’s Senior Vice President for UI/UX Development, recently told BMW Blog that passenger screens are in high demand, especially in larger vehicles. “People are asking for that,” he explained. “People say, ‘I want to have a dedicated screen for consuming content.’ There is room. So, you can think about that.”

I understand the appeal from a product planning perspective. American buyers love options and choices. If some customers want passenger entertainment systems, why not offer them? The counterargument is that just because people ask for something doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. We’re increasingly treating vehicles like mobile living rooms, with every occupant consuming their own content through their own screen. At some point, we’ve lost the plot on what cars are actually for.

What Porsche Isn’t Saying Yet

The interior recently revealed focused on the digital interface rather than full performance specifications. Porsche hasn’t disclosed final power output, acceleration figures, or detailed battery specifications in this announcement. Those details will presumably arrive with the world premiere at the end of 2025.

What we do know is that Porsche will offer an 11-kW wireless charging pad, launching first in Europe in 2026 before expanding to other markets. I’ve tested wireless charging systems in a few vehicles, and while the convenience factor is undeniable, the efficiency loss compared to wired charging makes me question the value proposition. You’re paying more for the privilege of slower, less efficient charging, though the 11-kW capability is reasonably competitive for inductive systems.

Standard air suspension comes on all models, with optional rear-wheel steering that reduces the turning circle. That’s genuinely useful in a vehicle this size, making parking lot maneuvering significantly easier. The Active Ride system from the Panamera and Taycan will also be available, providing impressive body control and ride comfort.

The Electric Cayenne in Context

Porsche’s commitment to keeping the combustion-powered Cayenne well into the next decade reveals something important about EV adoption. The market isn’t progressing as quickly as manufacturers hoped a few years ago. Rather than forcing a full electric transition, Porsche is hedging its bets by offering both powertrains simultaneously. The same strategy applies to the Macan, where the electric version will coexist with a new gasoline-powered model arriving in 2028.

This pragmatic approach makes sense given current market realities. Some buyers want electric. Many don’t, at least not yet. Offering both options maximizes potential sales while giving the charging infrastructure more time to mature. The Cayenne Electric represents Porsche’s best effort at making EVs appealing to luxury SUV buyers who might otherwise stick with traditional engines.

As for the interior’s screen situation, it’s simultaneously the most impressive and most excessive I’ve seen from Porsche. The execution is genuinely impressive, with thoughtful ergonomics and quality OLED displays. The three-layer interaction model shows more restraint than a pure touchscreen approach, and the Flow Display’s vertical curve actually solves reach and tap accuracy problems rather than just looking different.

But I can’t shake the feeling that we’ve collectively normalized maximum complexity when minimum would serve most people better. Porsche is doing this well because customers are demanding integrated entertainment and the brand is responding with curvature, selective physical controls, and coordinated design language. That doesn’t mean it’s the right direction, just that it’s the direction the market is pushing everyone.

The world premiere happens at the end of 2025, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026. Porsche hasn’t announced pricing yet, but expect a significant premium over the gasoline model. You’re paying for advanced electric powertrain technology, the largest continuous digital surface in any Porsche, and apparently, enough screens to satisfy the most demanding copilots.

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5 Unique Japanese Scissors That Redefine Everyday Cutting Tools

Scissors are often overlooked as simple, utilitarian tools, but in Japan, they become canvases for design innovation and creative thinking. Japanese designers approach even the most familiar objects with fresh eyes, reimagining everyday tools as pieces of functional art. The result is a lineup of scissors that are as visually captivating as they are practical, each one telling its own design story.

From playful forms that spark conversation to sleek, minimal silhouettes that elevate your workspace, these scissors go far beyond the basics. They’re crafted not just for cutting, but for delighting the senses, making each snip a satisfying part of your daily rhythm. Whether you’re searching for a new desk essential, a clever multitool, or a gift for a fellow design lover, these five Japanese scissors will inspire you to see ordinary objects in an entirely new light.

1. STELLAR EDGE SCISSORS

The Stellar Edge Scissors are a masterclass in minimalist engineering. With their gleaming, seamless handles and razor-sharp blades, they look like they belong in a modern art museum rather than an office drawer. Every curve and angle is carefully considered, resulting in a tool that feels as good as it looks. These scissors are crafted from Japanese stainless steel, promising both durability and long-lasting sharpness. Each snip feels almost effortless, making them a joy for daily tasks or creative projects.

The designers have paid special attention to ergonomics, ensuring that the Stellar Edge Scissors fit comfortably in hand. The polished finish and weight distribution give them a premium feel, elevating even the most mundane cutting job into a tactile pleasure. These are scissors for those who appreciate the intersection of form and function.

What we like

Striking minimalist design elevates any workspace.
High-quality Japanese stainless steel ensures lasting sharpness.
Smooth, precise cutting action for a variety of materials.

What we dislike

Minimalist handle may not suit those who prefer more grip texture.

2. Rockstar Guitar Scissors

Why settle for ordinary when you can rock your desk with the Rockstar Guitar Scissors? This playful design transforms a desk staple into a miniature electric guitar, complete with dramatic curves and bold styling. Every detail, from the fretboard-inspired handle to the metallic finish, channels the spirit of rock and roll. These scissors instantly become a conversation piece, sparking smiles and curiosity in any workspace.

Despite their whimsical looks, these scissors don’t compromise on function. The blades are sharp and precise, ready to handle everything from paper to packaging. Whether you’re a music lover or just want to add some flair to your office, the Rockstar Guitar Scissors are a perfect match for creative spirits.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25.00

What we like

Eye-catching guitar design doubles as desk decor.
Makes a memorable gift for music fans and creatives.
Sturdy construction and sharp blades for everyday use.

What we dislike

Playful shape may not fit traditional office aesthetics.
Handle design may take getting used to for precise cuts.

3. 8-in-1 EDC Scissors

Multitasking gets a major upgrade with the 8-in-1 EDC Scissors. This ingenious tool packs a suite of practical features into a compact, portable frame. Alongside precision cutting, you’ll find a bottle opener, screwdriver, nutcracker, wire cutter, and more. Every element is designed for quick, intuitive use, making these scissors a go-to companion for anyone who loves versatility.

The rugged construction means these scissors are ready for adventure, whether you’re at your desk or out in the field. Each component clicks satisfyingly into place, showing off the attention to detail that Japanese design is known for. For those who crave function without sacrificing style, the 8-in-1 EDC Scissors deliver in spades.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59.00

What we like

Packs eight functions into a single compact tool.
Durable build stands up to travel and daily use.
Features are easy to access and use on the go.

What we dislike

Some tools may be less comfortable for frequent tasks.

4. Cut & Slice Scissors

Sleek, smart, and surprisingly versatile, the Cut & Slice Scissors are designed for more than just paper. Their unique blade geometry allows them to handle everything from delicate fabric to tough packaging material. The ergonomic handle makes them comfortable for extended use, while the sharp, finely honed blades ensure a clean, precise cut every time.

What sets these scissors apart is their focus on workflow efficiency. The clever design lets you switch between slicing and traditional scissor action with ease. It’s a subtle innovation that makes a noticeable difference, especially for designers or crafters who demand precision and speed.

Click Here to Buy Now: $29.00

What we like

Innovative blade geometry for smooth slicing and cutting.
Versatile enough for fabric, paper, and packaging.

What we dislike>/h3>

Aesthetics are more utilitarian than decorative.

5. Casta Universal Design Scissors

The Casta Universal Design Scissors invite you to enjoy cutting in a whole new way. Their perfectly round handles rest gently in your palm, giving you a sense of comfort and control with every use. Inside each handle, a round concave shape creates a playful effect, producing a cheerful clicking sound that changes depending on the material you cut. This feature brings a bit of joy and mindfulness to even the most routine tasks.

These scissors are designed to be easy to grip, making them just as effective for left-handed users as for right-handed ones. The clever handle shape offers both ergonomic benefits and a touch of whimsy to your workspace. Anyone looking to add a sensory spark or a moment of happiness to their creative routine will appreciate the thoughtful details of these scissors.

What we like

Universal handle design suits left- and right-handed users.
Castanet-inspired clicks create a cheerful, engaging sound.

What we dislike

Handle may feel unusual for users accustomed to traditional grips.
May not appeal to those seeking a more traditional look.

Scissors That Cut Above the Rest

Japanese scissors are never just about getting the job done. They transform everyday routines into experiences filled with creativity and joy, all while showcasing the country’s love of thoughtful, innovative design. Each of these five unique pairs brings its own personality to your workspace, from playful shapes that spark conversation to clever features that make life easier and more beautiful.

Choosing any of these scissors means inviting a touch of artistry and delight into your daily rhythm. They remind us that even simple tools can be reimagined and elevated through smart design and a sense of fun. Whether you’re seeking the perfect gift or hoping to brighten up your own desk, these Japanese scissors promise to inspire and surprise every time you reach for them.

The post 5 Unique Japanese Scissors That Redefine Everyday Cutting Tools first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Potrik concept reimagines urban mobility and personal delivery

Have you ever experienced leaving the house with just one bag but throughout the day, you seem to be carrying more and more stuff? It’s probably okay if you’re moving around with a car but for those of us who commute, it can be a hassle. And as someone who can’t seem to just bring a small bag around, I do a lot of heavy lifting so to speak which can be a pain to my back and arms.

POTRIK is an innovative concept that reimagines how we move our belongings in the city. Designed by Yungwon Kang, Jueun Lee, Hyeonji Yang, Hyeongjoon Joo, and Hyogyeong Park, this concept tackles the hassle of carrying heavy shopping bags, making last-minute stops after errands, or picking up second-hand finds. With this modular sharing mobility system, you can enjoy lighter hands and more freedom every day, as POTRIK takes care of the heavy lifting for you.

Designers: Yungwon Kang, Jueun Lee, Hyeonji Yang, Hyeongjoon Joo, and Hyogyeong Park

At its core, POTRIK is a modular, detachable delivery mobility designed to move seamlessly between roads and sidewalks. The system is made up of two primary components: the Driving Module and the Storage Module. When you need to send something, a simple request through the POTRIK app sets everything in motion. The Driving Module, waiting at a city charging station, connects with the loaded Storage Module at your chosen departure point. Together, they form a single mobility unit that quickly transports your baggage along the road.

Upon reaching your destination, the Storage Module detaches and navigates sidewalks and building entrances autonomously. This means your items are delivered directly to you—no need to trek to a pick-up point or wait outside. With this system, quick and secure delivery is always within reach, whether you’re running errands or need to send something across town. POTRIK’s user experience is designed for simplicity and control.

You can track your belongings in real time through the POTRIK app, and with the 24H PASS, the system stays ready to respond at any hour, moving between strategically placed charging stations. When your delivery arrives, a tap with NFC opens the Storage Module so you can access your items instantly and securely.

The process is as easy as three steps: Send, Move, and Receive. Just set your pick-up and drop-off locations, and POTRIK handles the rest. This new delivery system is not just about moving things from place to place. It’s about making the process smarter and more personal. Whether you’re managing busy days packed with errands or need reliable help with heavy loads, POTRIK promises a lighter, more flexible way to get things done.

Though still a concept, POTRIK’s vision points to a new era of personalized, on-demand delivery. With POTRIK, your belongings arrive exactly where and when you need them, freeing you up to enjoy the city with lighter hands and a more liberated routine.

The post Potrik concept reimagines urban mobility and personal delivery first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Concept exercise bike brings minimalist fitness to your space

I’ve been meaning to look at exercise equipment that I can add to my living space in order to finally, officially start my fitness journey. However what’s in the market, or rather, what’s within my budget, is either too big or too bulky. I’m still on the lookout for something that’s minimalist but also has what I need to encourage me to actually start exercising inside my house.

Jupiter X, even though it remains a concept design for now, seems to be turning a few heads. Created by Alexandr Zhukouski, Jupiter X is a modern minimalistic exercise bike envisioned to combine elegance, durability, and practicality for home or office use. With its sleek, compact form and intuitive features, this concept takes a fresh approach to how we think about workout devices and interior aesthetics.

Designer Name: Alexandr Zhukouski

The hallmark of Jupiter X is its sophisticated yet understated appearance. The frame boasts smooth, unbroken lines and a compact silhouette, making it a natural fit for a variety of modern interiors. Unlike many bulky exercise bikes that dominate a room, Jupiter X is designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. Whether placed in a living room, a home gym, or even a stylish office, this bike adds a touch of refinement rather than visual clutter.

Durability is also at the forefront of Jupiter X’s concept. The proposed use of high-quality materials ensures both longevity and a premium feel. The sturdy construction is intended to withstand daily use, while the minimalist design keeps maintenance straightforward and hassle-free. This attention to material choice not only supports the bike’s functionality but also enhances its visual appeal, promising a piece of equipment that looks as good as it performs.

Functionality is thoughtfully integrated into every aspect of the Jupiter X design. Intuitive controls are a key feature, allowing users to adjust resistance and settings without interrupting their workout flow. The clean interface means there are no unnecessary distractions, just smooth operation and an effective exercise experience. This user-friendly approach makes Jupiter X suitable for everyone, from fitness beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.

Compactness is another strength of this concept. With space often at a premium in modern homes and offices, the small footprint of Jupiter X makes it an attractive choice for those who want to stay fit without sacrificing valuable real estate. Its lightweight profile suggests easy repositioning, so users can move it as needed to accommodate changing layouts or routines.

Although Jupiter X is not yet available for purchase, its concept is most likely attractive to design fans and fitness lovers alike. If brought to market, Jupiter X could set a new standard for exercise equipment that merges high performance with minimalist elegance. As home-based and flexible fitness solutions continue to rise in popularity, concepts like Jupiter X highlight the growing demand for products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The post Concept exercise bike brings minimalist fitness to your space first appeared on Yanko Design.

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The Temple of Dendur: Roman Egypt Preserved in Manhattan

The post The Temple of Dendur: Roman Egypt Preserved in Manhattan appeared first on DailyArt Magazine.