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An Elegant Stool from Leather Offcuts, by Industrial Designer Friedrich Gerlach

This Lecrase Stool is by German industrial designer Friedrich Gerlach.

The form might suggest plywood, but it’s in fact made of leather offcuts from the automotive and fashion industry; the carefully-chosen folds not only give the stool its flair, but exploits the material to allow it to support itself.

“In a world where increasing consumption generates more leftover materials, I see these not as waste, but as valuable resources,” Gerlach told the Maison&Objet trade fair. “I find it exciting to work with what’s already there – designing in a way that anticipates transformation, reuse, or even disappearance.”

The stool won Gerlach a 2025 Rising Talent Award.

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Amazon’s 2025 Kindle Scribe Is a Game-Changer for Digital Readers and Note-Takers

Amazon has revealed its fresh lineup of Kindle Scribes at the annual fall hardware event in New York, along with other announcements. The new devices have been reimagined from the ground up to fit the current-day requirements and iron out all the shortcomings of the previous models. The new Scribes will be available in the UK for starters, and the introduction of the first-ever color Kindle Scribe is a welcome addition. This comes as a more refined option compared to the cheaper Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition, which is suited for occasional readers who want a smaller option.

All three models come with a brush of redesign to do away with the asymmetrical chin on one side. This makes these devices look sleeker, more like a tablet-like form factor. All the variants have an 11-inch glare-free screen, which is bigger than the previous model at 10.2 inches. Even with the increase in size, the Scribes are a lot lighter at 400 grams and less thick at 5.4mm. Compare that to the ultra-thin iPhone Air, and they are still the winner.

Designer: Amazon

The new Scribes come with an advanced front light system courtesy of tiny LEDs that have uniform light distribution for a paper-like look. It also helps in reducing the screen size and the bezels. To simulate the effect of writing with a pen on a paper surface, the glass has a unique texture, and the gap between the glass and the E Ink panel underneath is reduced for a good tactile feel. The page turns feel a lot smoother as there is 40 percent faster processing courtesy of the new quad-core processor and more memory at disposal. The normal Knidle Scribe comes in two variants, one has a front light system and the other misses out on it. The front light version will be available early next year for $430, while the one with light asks $500.

The most interesting of the three, the Scribe Colorsoft, comes with a larger version of the customized E Ink screen technology used in the brand’s color e-reader. You can read, write, and annotate documents with the 10 pen color options, or simply highlight text with the five different highlighter options. Those who love to draw can put the shading tool to good use, given its smoother gradients. Scribe Colorsoft comes with a display technology with soft color reproduction, unlike your phone screen. This almost feels like viewing a book, or a canvas when drawing art.

Other than that, the device has AI reading features, one of which is “Story so Far” that lets the user continue with what they were reading. The other one, called “Ask this Book” is used for highlighting passages or text to get inquisitive information on characters, or any backdrop the reader would benefit from. The Scribe comes with a week-long battery life and, most importantly, doesn’t have any distracting apps or notifications that could mar the reading experience. Kindle Scribe Colorsoft will be available starting $630 later this year.

 

The post Amazon’s 2025 Kindle Scribe Is a Game-Changer for Digital Readers and Note-Takers first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Retrospekt CP-81 Portable Cassette Player Dials Up Nostalgia with Modern Style

The cassette revival is more than just a passing fad—it’s a full-on celebration of analog music, tactile experiences, and the joy of rewinding your favorite mixtape. For many, the hunt for a reliable, stylish cassette player has meant scouring thrift stores or settling for vintage Walkmans with questionable battery life and temperamental mechanics. The Retrospekt CP-81 offers a refreshing alternative for anyone looking to enjoy tapes without the headaches of old hardware.

What makes the CP-81 particularly compelling is how it balances retro charm with modern reliability. This isn’t a refurbished relic, but a brand-new portable cassette player designed from the ground up. The clear plastic shell gives you a peek at the inner workings, while the compact form and understated branding keep things clean and contemporary. The package even includes a pair of retro-inspired Koss headphones, complete with orange foam cushions and a stainless-steel headband for that authentic throwback vibe.

Designer: Retrospekt

The CP-81 keeps things simple, focusing on the features that matter most to cassette fans. You get all the core functions—play, fast-forward, rewind, and record—plus a microphone jack for line-in recording. Whether you want to listen to classic albums, make your own mixtapes, or record audio from an external source, the CP-81 has you covered. Power comes from either two AA batteries or a USB-C cable, making it easy to use at home or on the go.

Of course, the real appeal lies in the hands-on experience. There’s something satisfying about popping in a tape, pressing play, and hearing the gentle whir of the spools as your music starts. The stereo sound is solid for a modern player, with minimal wow and flutter, and the tactile controls make every interaction feel intentional. Recording your own mixtapes or capturing audio from another device adds a layer of creativity that digital music players just can’t match.

That said, the CP-81 isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s a thoughtful response to the renewed interest in cassettes, offering a reliable, accessible way to enjoy analog music without the quirks of vintage gear. Themed editions and collaborations, like Hello Kitty or Peanuts, add personality and collectibility, making the player as much a statement piece as a listening device.

You’ll notice how the CP-81 fits seamlessly into the broader cassette revival, appealing to both longtime collectors and newcomers who want to experience the charm of tapes for the first time. The design bridges the gap between past and present, blending minimalist style with everyday practicality. For anyone looking to rediscover the magic of cassettes, the Retrospekt CP-81 makes analog music feel new all over again.

The post Retrospekt CP-81 Portable Cassette Player Dials Up Nostalgia with Modern Style first appeared on Yanko Design.

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A 3D Printer that Walks and Lays Walls

There is a fascinating type of wasp where I live called a mud dauber. These little guys are like the 3D printers of the natural world. They take individual globs of mud and, using their mandibles, shape them into layers attached to vertical surfaces in order to build cylindrical nests.

Image: Mike Dunn, Walter Magazine

You can clearly see the “print lines” on their nests. The different colors are from different types of mud, and while adjacent nests can be made from different muds, they always go mono-mud for individual nests.

Image: Pollinator, CC BY-SA 3.0

Anyway I thought of mud daubers while looking at this Charlotte robot. It was developed by two Australian firms, Crest Robotics and climate technology company Earthbuilt Technology, as a response to Australia’s housing crisis.

Like the mud dauber, Charlotte uses local materials to build. It’s hooked up to wheeled vehicle that’s loaded with sand, earth and waste products like crushed brick. The ‘bot essentially digests these, then poops out a composite material in layers to build walls.

The point of all this is that you’re not transporting construction materials to the site. “Raw materials go in. Solid walls come out. Easy,” writes Earthbuilt Technology.

“Earthbuilt® was conceived with a simple insight: the real cost and carbon of construction come from repeated industrial processing and endless transport. Our patented printer shortens the supply chain to a single, low-energy, high-speed process. Using local soil or clean waste, Earthbuilt® creates strong, durable walls without cement, firing, or manual laying.”

Earthbuilt says the robot is fast, affordable and accurate. They also envision it being used in the future to build structures on the moon.

Functioning prototypes have been built, and are reportedly on display at the currently-running International Astronautical Congress in Sydney. However, at press time we could not locate any videos of Charlotte in action.

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Titaner’s Innovative Take on the Fractal Vise

In the past, it was common for a Western company to release some hot new object, then Chinese manufacturers would rush in with knock-offs. Thankfully we’re seeing a shift away from this, where Chinese manufacturers are starting to add their own innovations to improve existing products. As one example Titaner, a Chinese manufacturer of titanium tools, is taking a more Apple-like approach: Let others be the first, then take your time to design a better version of that object.

In this case, the object that’s having a moment is the fractal vise. This all started in 2021, when artist Steve J. Lindsay designed his based on a jaw he’d seen on a milling machine from the early 1900s.

Lindsay’s design went viral, and later that year product designer Chris Borge made 3D-print files of a similar design available.

Earlier this year, British tool manufacturer MetMo successfully Kickstarted their own fractal vise design, to the tune of $1.8 million.

Enter Titaner. Rather than merely knock off the designs above, the company instead decided to design the ultimate version of a fractal vise.

First off it’s on a ball joint, greatly improving the ergonomics.

Secondly, it has a feature critical for working on delicate objects: The ability to set the clamping pressure. The user dials it in via a torque mechanism, and when the vise hits the desired pressure, it audibly clicks, like a torque wrench.

Thirdly the jaws have a width capacity of nearly 4 inches.

Lastly the jaws are reversible, allowing you to hold objects from the inside out.

The tool, being made entirely out of precision-CNC-milled titanium, is well expensive, starting at $1,100. The company’s only making 1,000 units and selling them on Kickstarter. At press time the campaign had been successfully funded, with 85 units spoken for and 27 days left to pledge.

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Top 10 Space-Saving Tech Solutions & Gadgets For Tiny Desks & Small Offices

Small spaces need smart solutions. The modern workspace has shrunk from sprawling offices to cramped corners, transforming how we think about productivity and organization. Today’s professionals face the challenge of maximizing functionality while maintaining aesthetic appeal in increasingly compact environments. The solution lies in choosing tech accessories and gadgets that serve multiple purposes, reduce clutter, and integrate seamlessly into tight quarters.

Smart design thinking has revolutionized how we approach workspace efficiency. Gone are the days when bigger meant better; today’s most innovative products prove that intelligent engineering can pack tremendous functionality into minimal footprints. These ten game-changing tech solutions represent the pinnacle of space-conscious design, each offering unique approaches to common small-office challenges.

1. Aspekt Omni Fold Stand

For tiny desks drowning in Mac mini placement confusion, the Aspekt Omni Fold Stand offers brilliant spatial optimization. This ingenious monitor stand integrates a precision-engineered groove directly into its base, creating a dedicated home for the Mac mini without consuming additional desk surface. The vertical integration transforms two separate items into one cohesive unit, instantly reclaiming valuable workspace real estate.

Small office users particularly benefit from this stand’s modular approach to desktop organization. Instead of scattered components competing for limited surface area, everything consolidates into a clean, professional setup that mimics an iMac’s integrated aesthetic. The elevated monitor position improves ergonomics while the hidden Mac mini reduces visual clutter, making cramped workspaces appear intentionally designed rather than accidentally overcrowded.

What we like

Eliminates desktop clutter by housing the Mac mini within the monitor base structure.
Creates a unified workstation appearance that maximizes limited desk space efficiently.

What we dislike

Mac mini compatibility requirement excludes users with different computer systems.
Premium pricing point may stretch budgets for small office setups.

2. LEGO-Style Cable Organizer

Cable chaos destroys the illusion of organized small spaces faster than anything else. This silicone cable management system transforms desk-destroying cord tangles into neat, stackable solutions that work particularly well in cramped quarters. The LEGO-inspired modularity allows precise customization for different workspace sizes, from minimal home office corners to slightly larger but still constrained desk setups.

Tiny desk users appreciate the vertical organization approach that maximizes storage capacity without expanding the horizontal footprint. The peg cylinder design secures cables in manageable loops while micro suction tape prevents sliding during frequent cable adjustments. The playful brick aesthetic adds personality to sterile small offices, while the stackable nature means the system grows with changing tech needs without requiring complete replacement.

What we like

Vertical stacking design saves precious horizontal desk space effectively.
The modular system adapts perfectly to varying small office requirements.

What we dislike

Silicone surface attracts dust and requires frequent cleaning and maintenance.
Individual organizer capacity limitations may necessitate purchasing multiple units.

3. Dockcase 7-in-1 Hub

Small desks suffer from dongle proliferation more than spacious workstations. The Dockcase Hub solves this perfectly by consolidating seven connectivity functions into one compact device with an interactive touchscreen interface. For tiny office users juggling multiple devices, this hub eliminates the need for several separate adapters while providing real-time performance feedback through its cyberpunk-inspired display.

Cramped workspaces benefit enormously from the hub’s space consolidation and visual feedback capabilities. The metallic construction takes up minimal desk footprint while the touchscreen eliminates guesswork about port performance and power delivery status. Small office professionals particularly value the transparency this provides during data-intensive workflows, turning a simple hub into mission control for their constrained but efficient workspace.

What we like

An interactive touchscreen provides immediate feedback on all connected device performance.
Consolidates multiple connectivity needs into a single compact desktop solution.

What we dislike

Complex internal components may increase potential failure points over time.
Higher price point compared to basic hubs challenges small office budgets.

4. Cylin

Tiny desk users dream of computing solutions that disappear when not needed. The Cylin concept achieves this by integrating mouse, keyboard, and AR glasses into a brilliant cylindrical package that stores vertically like a desk accessory. This revolutionary space-saving approach addresses mobility constraints while providing full computing capability in an impossibly compact form factor ideal for cramped workspaces.

Small office environments benefit tremendously from Cylin’s storage efficiency and multi-functionality. The scroll-inspired design allocates dedicated compartments for each peripheral while maintaining a footprint smaller than most desk lamps. When space is at a premium, having computing peripherals that fold into a single elegant cylinder means users can maintain clean desk surfaces while keeping essential tools immediately accessible.

What we like

Cylindrical design stores vertically using minimal precious desk surface area.
Integrates multiple computing peripherals into a single space-efficient unit.

What we dislike

Concept stage development means an uncertain availability timeline for purchase.
The compact folding keyboard may compromise typing comfort during extended work sessions.

5. NightWatch

Bedside tables in small apartments face the same space constraints as tiny desks. The NightWatch addresses this by transforming Apple Watch charging into a space-efficient timekeeping solution. The solid lucite orb design occupies minimal surface area while magnifying the watch display for easy visibility, making it ideal for cramped bedrooms adjacent to small home offices.

Small space users appreciate how the NightWatch eliminates the need for separate alarm clocks while serving charging duties. The transparent construction and touch-sensitive surface provide interactive functionality without additional devices cluttering the limited nightstand space. The optical magnification and audio amplification features work without electricity, making this dock perfect for power-conscious small apartments where every outlet counts.

What we like

Minimal footprint design perfect for cramped nightstands and small surfaces.
Touch-sensitive interaction eliminates the need for separate bedside controls.

What we dislike

Apple Watch exclusivity limits compatibility with other smartwatch brands.
Transparent Lucite material shows fingerprints requiring frequent cleaning and maintenance.

6. MicroPC 2

Space-constrained professionals need computing power that travels efficiently between tiny home offices and cramped coffee shop corners. The MicroPC 2 delivers full PC functionality in a jacket-pocket form factor, making it invaluable for users whose “office” changes throughout the day. The rugged construction and comprehensive port selection eliminate the need for carrying additional adapters and accessories.

Small workspace users particularly value how the MicroPC 2 can transform any surface into a temporary office without requiring desktop space for a full computer setup. The compact keyboard and display provide serious computing capability, while the robust build quality ensures reliability in unpredictable small-space environments. For tiny desk users who need occasional heavy computing power, this represents the perfect space-saving backup solution.

What we like

Jacket-pocket portability enables computing anywhere without desk space requirements.
Comprehensive connectivity eliminates the need for additional adapters and dongles.

What we dislike

A compact keyboard size may reduce typing speed and overall comfort.
Small screen dimensions challenge extended visual work and detailed tasks.

7. Nothing Power (1) Battery Bank

Small desks become cluttered quickly with charging cables and battery banks. The Nothing Power (1) addresses this through intelligent design that communicates charging status visually, eliminating guesswork about power levels. The Glyph interface transforms a mundane battery bank into an informative desktop accessory that complements small office aesthetics while serving essential functions.

Tiny workspace users benefit from the transparent design language that makes the power bank feel more like intentional decor than emergency equipment. The 20,000 mAh capacity reduces charging frequency while the 65W fast charging capability means devices spend less time tethered to outlets. For small offices with limited power access, this high-capacity solution provides independence from wall outlets while maintaining visual appeal.

What we like

The glyph interface provides clear visual charging feedback without checking apps.
High capacity reduces the frequency of recharging cycles for multiple devices.

What we dislike

Transparent construction may accumulate dust in internal components over time.
Premium design aesthetic commands higher prices than conventional battery banks.

8. Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers

Tiny desks lack space for powered speakers and their associated cables. These ingenious Duralumin speakers solve this perfectly by amplifying smartphone audio without requiring power connections or desktop space for charging bases. The aerospace-grade construction ensures durability, while the golden ratio proportions optimize acoustic performance in small rooms with challenging acoustics.

Small office users particularly appreciate the portability and power independence that make these speakers usable anywhere without outlet access concerns. The passive amplification spreads sound effectively in cramped quarters, while the battery-free operation eliminates another device requiring charging management. For tiny workspaces where every cable and power requirement matters, these speakers provide audio enhancement without additional complexity.

Click Here to Buy Now: $179.00

What we like

Zero power requirements eliminate cable clutter and charging concerns.
Portable design allows audio enhancement anywhere without space constraints.

What we dislike

Passive amplification provides limited volume increases compared to powered alternatives.
Smartphone compatibility may not accommodate all device sizes optimally.

9. STM ChargeTree Go

Multi-device charging creates cable chaos that destroys small desk organization instantly. The ChargeTree Go solves this through a vertical design that simultaneously charges iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods within a minimal footprint. The foldable construction enables compact storage, making it perfect for tiny desks that need to transform between work and storage modes.

Small workspace users benefit enormously from the vertical charging approach that preserves horizontal desk surface for actual work. The upright orientation maintains device visibility for notifications while the simultaneous charging eliminates multiple cables competing for limited outlet access. For cramped home offices where desk space is precious, this charging solution provides organization without expansion.

What we like

Vertical orientation preserves valuable horizontal desk space for work activities.
Foldable design enables compact storage when not actively charging devices.

What we dislike

Apple ecosystem focus excludes Android users from full functionality.
Wireless charging speeds may be slower than direct cable connections.

10. Orbit

Video calls demand phone positioning that works within small desk constraints. The Orbit concept introduces intelligent face-tracking to phone stands through a minimalist design that occupies minimal surface area while providing automated viewing angle adjustment. The trophy-inspired aesthetic adds visual interest to tiny desks while serving practical functions for remote work communications.

Small office users particularly benefit from the automated tracking that eliminates constant manual repositioning during video calls. The compact base design preserves precious desk space while the face-tracking functionality ensures professional presentation quality without user intervention. For cramped home offices where every desktop inch matters, having a phone stand that works intelligently while looking sculptural represents the perfect space-efficient solution.

What we like

Automated tracking maintains optimal viewing without manual adjustment interruptions.
Minimal base footprint preserves precious desk space for other essentials.

What we dislike

Concept development status means current unavailability for immediate purchase.
Mechanical tracking components may introduce reliability concerns over extended use.

Creating Your Ultimate Space-Optimized Workspace

These intelligent solutions prove that tiny desks can achieve remarkable functionality through thoughtful product selection. Modern workspace constraints demand accessories that serve multiple purposes while maintaining visual coherence. Smart integration of these space-saving technologies transforms cramped quarters into efficient, aesthetically pleasing environments that rival traditional office setups completely.

The future belongs to workspace designs that prioritize intelligence over square footage. By selecting accessories that consolidate functions while preserving desk surface area, small office users can achieve productivity levels that exceed conventional workspace expectations. These solutions demonstrate that constraint often breeds innovation, creating opportunities for better organization and enhanced functionality.

The post Top 10 Space-Saving Tech Solutions & Gadgets For Tiny Desks & Small Offices first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Espresso machine concept is a minimalist design for the modern coffee lover

If you’re a fan of beautifully designed appliances, the BØYD espresso machine concept from NYZE Studio is sure to catch your eye. This striking espresso maker isn’t available just yet, but it brings a fresh vision to what home coffee brewing could look like. With a blend of architectural flair and everyday functionality, the BØYD concept turns the idea of an espresso machine into a sculptural centerpiece for any modern kitchen.

At first glance, the BØYD espresso machine concept commands attention with its bold, minimalist form. NYZE Studio has taken a less-is-more approach, stripping away unnecessary details for pure geometric lines and smooth curves. The result is an appliance that feels more like a piece of modern art than a traditional coffee maker, inviting you to imagine it as a statement piece on your countertop.

Designer Name: NYZE Studio

But the BØYD isn’t just about aesthetics. Even as a concept, its design is rooted in thoughtful ergonomics and user experience. The handle is perfectly arched for a natural grip, and the simple interface means you won’t be fumbling with a dozen buttons before your first cup. It’s easy to picture how this machine would simplify your morning routine, making coffee preparation intuitive rather than overwhelming.

One of the standout features of the BØYD concept is its smart use of space. The compact footprint is ideal for contemporary kitchens, where counter space is precious. Despite its small size, the design suggests it could deliver all the performance you’d expect from a high-end espresso machine. The clean layout keeps everything within reach, supporting a smooth workflow whether you’re making a quick single shot or brewing for guests.

Material choices are another highlight of the concept. NYZE Studio’s renderings show a blend of brushed metal and matte surfaces, creating a refined contrast that’s both modern and warm. This tactile approach not only looks inviting but hints at a satisfying experience each time you interact with the machine. There’s a sense of timelessness in the BØYD’s design. Many espresso machines chase passing trends, but this concept feels like it could fit seamlessly into any era or kitchen style. It’s easy to imagine it aging gracefully, becoming a fixture that you look forward to using day after day.

For coffee lovers who appreciate both form and function, the BØYD espresso machine concept is a refreshing take on home brewing. It’s a vision that understands the ritual of making coffee, offering a seamless blend of tactile pleasure and visual delight. While it remains a concept for now, it’s exciting to think about how designs like this could shape the future of espresso at home.

The post Espresso machine concept is a minimalist design for the modern coffee lover first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Capsule can bring healthier, resilient soil in a sustainable package

Aeropod, designed by Muju Earth, is changing the way we think about soil health and sustainable farming. This innovative, biodegradable capsule-based solution is specifically created to revive compacted soil and boost agricultural resilience. When fields are compressed by heavy equipment, the soil loses its ability to support healthy crops, water can’t penetrate, and long-term damage sets in. Traditional methods like mechanical tilling are not only expensive and labor-heavy but can also harm the environment.

Aeropod offers a refreshing alternative that’s simple and effective. These small, seed-like capsules can be scattered directly onto the land. When rainwater or pressure activates them, Aeropods expand, forming micro-channels and injecting air into the soil. This unique process allows the soil to “breathe,” kickstarting microbial activity and encouraging roots to grow deeper and stronger. Unlike conventional tilling, Aeropod restores soil health without extra labor, fuel, or disruption.

Designer Name: Muju Earth

Accessibility is a key benefit of Aeropod. The technology is designed so that even small-scale farmers can use it easily, lowering operating costs and supporting regenerative agriculture for long-term food security and community well-being. By replacing fossil fuel-powered machinery, Aeropod also helps cut carbon emissions and supports a cultural shift toward treating soil as a precious, shared resource.

Feedback from field trials has been overwhelmingly positive. Both farmers and agricultural experts have praised Aeropod for its simplicity and effectiveness. Its open-source and collaborative approach means that people from around the world can participate in refining and expanding the technology, opening the door for new ideas and widespread adoption.

Looking to the future, Aeropod has the potential to reduce costs by as much as 60% compared to traditional soil restoration methods. This makes it a truly scalable solution that can be adapted to different climates and agricultural needs. Farmers can look forward to better yields, fewer expenses, and healthier land, while society as a whole benefits from more sustainable agriculture and restored ecosystems.

Aeropod represents a new era for farming, one where innovation, accessibility, and environmental responsibility work hand in hand. By helping the soil recover naturally, Aeropod not only supports today’s farmers but also protects the food systems and natural resources that future generations will depend on. Its widespread adoption could inspire further advances in sustainable agriculture and encourage communities worldwide to view soil health as a shared responsibility. As more people recognize the importance of regenerative practices, solutions like Aeropod could become a cornerstone of resilient and climate-smart farming for years to come.

The post Capsule can bring healthier, resilient soil in a sustainable package first appeared on Yanko Design.

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membrane structures shape experimental sauna complex by KOMPAS at expo 2025 osaka

Kompas unveils multisensory sauna experience at Expo 2025 Osaka

 

KOMPAS presents Taiyo Tsubomi, an experimental sauna complex at the 2025 World Exposition site in Osaka. Positioned along the western seafront of the Expo grounds, the project, whose name translates to Bud of the Sun, introduces a sauna experience that engages light, heat, sound, and scent while fostering a deeper connection with the surrounding natural landscape. At just 161 square meters, the installation transforms a compact footprint into a layered architectural exploration of translucency, material innovation, and ritualized engagement.

 

The design organizes three primary membrane volumes on an open platform. Taiyo Tsubomi envelops visitors in warmth in a comfort lounge flooded with natural light and wind, and also features a cold bath sheltered beneath a balloon-like canopy. Each unit interacts with its environment, swaying in the breeze, reflecting the sky, and glowing with sunset hues. These subtle gestures amplify the sensory impact of the sauna, supporting the project’s concept of resonance with nature and an awakening of synesthesia.

all images by Yohei Sasakura

 

 

tetrahedral air-membrane structures shape Taiyo Tsubomi

 

Japanese studio KOMPAS includes tetrahedral air-membrane structures made from lightweight aluminum frames and ETFE film. This system encloses large volumes of air for insulation and stability and maintains a minimal physical footprint. Frosted ETFE diffuses sunlight during the day and creates a luminous interior at night, replacing the wooden interiors associated with saunas using a translucent, adaptable envelope. Taiyo Tsubomi also uses concrete canvas, a fabric-like material that hardens when wet, and 3D printed concrete for the organic-shaped cold bath. The modular nature of the membranes allows the units to be deflated, relocated, and reused, aligning with the Expo’s broader exploration of sustainable and flexible design for future societies.

 

Central to the experience is a sequence of eleven curated sauna rituals, guided by an attendant, where participants navigate a progression of heat, light, sound, and scent, transforming physical immersion into a narrative exploration of sensory perception. 

KOMPAS presents Taiyo Tsubomi at Expo 2025 Osaka

an experimental sauna complex positioned along the western seafront of the Expo grounds

a sauna experience that engages light, heat, sound, and scent

a layered architectural exploration of translucency, material innovation, and ritualized engagement

the design organizes three primary membrane volumes on an open platform

the sauna envelops visitors in warmth

a comfort lounge flooded with natural light and wind

each unit interacts with its environment

swaying in the breeze, reflecting the sky, and glowing with sunset hues

KOMPAS includes tetrahedral air-membrane structures

made from lightweight aluminum frames and ETFE film

 

 

project info:

 

name: Taiyo Tsubomi

architect: KOMPAS | @kompas_arch, TSP Taiyo Inc., Taiyo Kogyo Corp.

location: Expo 2025 Osaka | @expo2025japan, Yumeshima, Konohana-ward, Osaka, Japan

area: 161 square meters

 

owner / design client: Taiyo Kogyo Corp.

sauna produce: TTNE Inc.

landscape: SORA BOTANICAL GARDEN Project Inc.

lighting: REALROCKDESIGN Inc.

sound: KISSonix, Inc.

construction: TSP Taiyo Inc., Taiyo Kogyo Corp.

photographer: Yohei Sasakura | @yoheisasakura

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the granaries of gaza: studio nab’s model for civic and ecological reconstruction

The Granaries of Gaza: A Collective Reconstruction Project

 

In response to the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Middle East and the massive destruction of the Gaza Strip, The Granaries of Gaza by Studio nab proposes a long-term, systemic reconstruction process. Conceived as both immediate relief and sustainable rebuilding, the initiative unfolds in two phases, aiming to restore dignity and autonomy to Gaza’s communities. After months of conflict, Gaza’s housing, infrastructure, and essential services have been devastated. The population faces severe conditions. The entirety of residents are experiencing acute food insecurity; more than 1,400 healthcare workers have been killed and over 30 hospitals destroyed or rendered inoperative; the collapse of water and sanitation systems has increased the risk of disease; and electricity outages are nearly constant, hindering the operation of critical equipment.

 

In this context, The Granaries of Gaza is conceived not as a conventional aid program but as a civic, social, and ecological reconstruction strategy. It is grounded in two key observations: the right of Gazans to dignified housing and autonomy, and the unprecedented presence of more than 50 million tons of rubble, material that can serve as the foundation for rebuilding rather than waste to be removed. The project is a collective act of care combining architecture, agriculture, and social repair.

phase 01: onshore humanitarian platforms | phase 02: offshore extensions for housing, agriculture, and energy | all images courtesy of Studio nab

 

 

Studio nab’s Two-Phase Strategy for Civic and Ecological Rebuild

 

The proposal’s first phase, by interdisciplinary practice Studio nab, provides immediate yet adaptable relief. Rubble is recycled into modular concrete blocks, lightened with straw, to construct bioclimatic shelters. These offer displaced families protection, privacy, and basic services, while accommodating craftspeople and volunteers engaged in reconstruction. The shelters are designed with principles of natural ventilation, shading, and orientation, and can integrate self-sufficiency systems for water, energy, and sanitation. Transitional by nature, they form the groundwork for the second phase.

 

Building on the first phase, modular offshore platforms extend the city with housing, farms, markets, schools, hospitals, and renewable energy systems. Each platform is designed as a self-sufficient ecosystem, two-thirds offshore, one-third onshore, capable of producing food, water, and energy independently. The onshore shelters from the first phase are reused or relocated, with concrete modules repurposed into seawalls or urban structures.

projected photomontage showing the deployment of phase 02

 

 

Studio nab’s proposal Weaves Agriculture, Heritage, and Energy

 

The project integrates regenerative agriculture through aquaponics, hydroponics, poultry and goat farming, and the cultivation of traditional crops such as za’atar and olives. Shared granaries, designed with natural thermal regulation, ensure year-round food storage and distribution, reducing dependence on fragile supply chains. Construction draws on traditional Palestinian techniques such as rammed earth and references to silos, communal ovens, and clay beehives. Studio nab’s approach preserves local knowledge while strengthening material and cultural autonomy. Floating platforms generate energy through solar, wind, wave, and biogas systems. Dual water systems, seawater desalination, and natural wastewater treatment, supply crops and households, supporting long-term resilience.

 

The Granaries of Gaza reframes reconstruction as a collective act of care, combining architecture, agriculture, and cultural continuity. By transforming rubble into resources and linking emergency response with sustainable development, the project seeks to restore autonomy and resilience to Gaza’s population.

photograph of the existing site, showing extensive destruction

visual projection of the site, a humanitarian camp constructed from rubble

schematic diagram: recycling war debris into modular blocks

schematic diagram: shelters constructed from recycled concrete blocks

visual projection of the site, a humanitarian camp constructed from rubble

visual projection of the site, a humanitarian camp constructed from rubble

multi-purpose domestic platform: hospital, vertical farm, port, water and food storage, activity buildings, market

multi-purpose domestic platform: school, care center, diplomacy center, housing, mosque

platform for market gardening, fish farming, and livestock production

platform for renewable energy production, drinking water, and waste treatment

multi-purpose domestic platform: school, care center, diplomacy center, housing, mosque

phase 02: view from the multi-purpose domestic platform

 

project info:

 

name: The Granaries of Gaza
designer: Studio nab

lead designer: Nicolas Abdelkader

location: Gaza Strip, Palestine

 

 

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom

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