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Sculptural LOOPS Lamp Creates Dramatic Shadows With Plaster and Sisal

Lighting design has come a long way from simple table lamps, but most of us still expect our fixtures to look pretty much the same whether they’re on or off. That predictable approach is exactly what makes Taeg Nishimoto’s LOOPS lamp so refreshing and compelling to look at.

This sculptural piece looks almost boring during the day, but flip the switch, and suddenly your entire room transforms into a canvas of intricate shadows. The Japanese designer has created something that challenges what we think lighting should do, serving as a tangible marker of where light originates.

Designer: Taeg Nishimoto

At first glance, you might wonder what all the fuss is about. The lamp is built from pretty humble materials: sisal rope, plaster, concrete, and steel rods. Nothing fancy there, but Nishimoto’s approach to working with these materials is where things get interesting and unexpectedly organic. He starts with short pieces of sisal rope, each measuring between 35 and 60 centimeters, then untwines them to create loops that form unexpected shapes. The process sounds almost accidental, which is exactly the point Nishimoto wants to make about his design philosophy.

Each sisal loop gets temporarily stabilized with fabric hardener before being wrapped in carefully applied plaster layers. This isn’t the kind of plaster you’d pour into a mold, but rather a substance that transitions rapidly from liquid to solid, creating distinctly handmade surfaces. Individual plaster-covered loops are assembled into clusters, but not according to any predetermined plan. Instead, Nishimoto finds three or more contact points where the loops naturally touch, creating connections that feel as random as formations you might find in nature, like sand dunes.

The assembled cluster sits on four thin steel rods rising from a concrete base that houses the actual light source. This concrete cylinder provides stability while maintaining the lamp’s sculptural presence. Even this utilitarian element gets finished with plaster, creating visual continuity throughout the entire piece. The dimensions work out to roughly 40 to 50 centimeters in plan and 70 to 80 centimeters tall, making it substantial enough to command attention. But here’s where LOOPS really shines, literally. The dramatic transformation between its lit and unlit states is pretty remarkable to witness.

During the day, the plaster texture makes the entire sculpture appear relatively flat and unremarkable. Switch on the flood lamp hidden in the base, however, and suddenly the complex geometry reveals itself through shadows cast on walls and ceilings with almost mysterious effects. These aren’t just simple silhouettes, but intricate patterns that shift as you move around the room. It’s this interplay between light and shadow that elevates LOOPS beyond mere functional lighting into something approaching art installation. Nishimoto has created three prototypes so far, each one unique.

That said, there are some practical considerations to keep in mind with this design. The handmade nature means each piece will be different, which could be challenging for anyone wanting consistency. The lamp also relies heavily on placement and surrounding surfaces to create its shadow effects.

It might not work as well in every space, and you’ll need to consider how the shadows will interact with your existing decor. Still, LOOPS offers something refreshingly organic compared to typical mass-produced lighting fixtures. It’s a reminder that compelling designs can emerge from letting materials take the lead.

The post Sculptural LOOPS Lamp Creates Dramatic Shadows With Plaster and Sisal first appeared on Yanko Design.

Carl Friedrik’s 72-Hour Backpack is stylish enough for work and built for travel

Backpacks are not what they were a few years back when you didn’t want to carry them to the office but only pack them for a hike. Backpacks are evolving now to meet the demands of everything from air travel to boardroom meetings, becoming sophisticated in both form and function. Carl Friedrik has been ahead of this curve, consistently designing luggage that redefines luxury travel. The brand’s latest release, the 72-Hour Backpack, illustrates this commitment. It offers far more than you might expect from a traditional backpack. How’s that, you’ll find as you read on.

First things first, the Carl Friedrik 72-Hour Backpack skips the traditional top-load feature in favor of an organizational travel backpack design, which means its front panel unzips fully to let you use it like a suitcase. This convenience is enhanced with a premium exterior made from nubuck leather. Together, the plush look and feel, and comfortable packing experience, make this backpack a must-have for your weekend getaway or a work trip.

Designer: Carl Friedrik

If you’re wondering why a weekend, the name 72-Hour Backpack is derived from the fact that Carl Friedrik believes this backpack can let you pack at least three days’ worth of clothing and accessories in its multitude of pockets, while still maintaining its sleek profile and elegant appearance. Of course, by its appearance, you cannot believe it can accommodate that much. But thanks to the eight pockets and compartments onboard, it lets you stow away your travel essentials with utmost convenience, and carrying it is comfortable on the shoulder using the nicely padded straps.

The backpack features two large interior pockets. The larger pocket can be used to store shoes, while the smaller zipped pocket can accommodate clothing. The laptop goes into its designated section (a 16-inch laptop compartment, i.e.), and the water bottle is in the zippered pocket on one side. One fascinating quick-access pocket on the top is positioned there so you can instantly reach out to the wallet, phone, or other smaller items you have stowed in there. There are also a couple of hidden pockets for valuables inside.

With its interesting compartmentalization and luxe finish, the 72-Hour Backpack measures 30 cm wide, 18 cm deep, and 46 cm high. For the inquisitive, the bag has a 25L capacity and weighs only 1.7 kg without any contents inside. According to the information provided by Carl Friedrik on its product page, the backpack with its “panel detailing and straight-lined structure…closely mimics the company’s line of hard-shell luggage.” And to ensure it complements the luggage range, it has an integrated luggage holder to slot it seamlessly onto the trolley when you’re dragging it through the airport. Available in charcoal and chocolate colorways, the backpack starts at $556.

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10 Best Smart Wearables That Will Reshape Your Daily Routine In July 2025

Wearable technology has transcended its origins as simple fitness trackers to become sophisticated extensions of human capability. The devices defining 2025 merge form and function seamlessly to enhance rather than complicate daily existence. These wearables no longer demand attention through flashy displays or intrusive notifications; instead, they operate quietly in the background, anticipating needs and delivering insights precisely when required.

The revolution lies not in adding more features but in thoughtful restraint and purposeful integration. Smart glasses capture moments without disrupting experiences. Health monitors provide medical-grade insights through elegant rings and discrete sensors. Modular devices adapt to different activities throughout the day. Every product in this curated collection displays a maturation of wearable technology that finally delivers on early promises of seamless human-computer interaction.

1. Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses

The Ray-Ban Meta gives the mundane act of wearing glasses a makeover, converting it into a portal for capturing and sharing life’s moments. These smart glasses maintain the iconic Wayfarer aesthetic that has defined eyewear for decades while seamlessly integrating cameras, speakers, and processing hardware. The device captures 1080p video for up to three minutes per clip, making spontaneous content creation effortless.

The open-ear audio technology delivers music, calls, and AI assistant interactions while preserving situational awareness. This maintains the natural soundscape around you while providing personal audio that doesn’t isolate you from important environmental cues. The multiple frame styles, including Wayfarer, Round, and Headline, accommodate different face shapes and personal aesthetics. The glasses are versatile, allowing the technology to adapt to your style preferences, rather than forcing you to compromise on appearance for functionality.

What we like

Maintains classic Ray-Ban aesthetic while integrating advanced technology.
Open-ear audio preserves situational awareness during activities.

What we dislike

Three-minute video recording limit may feel restrictive for longer content.
1080p recording quality falls short of current smartphone standards.

2. Vetra Orbit One

The Vetra Orbit One concept smartwatch adds tactile interaction to wearable technology through rotating bezels and textured surfaces that provide satisfying physical feedback. This counters the trend toward purely digital interfaces by incorporating the sensory pleasure of traditional watchmaking into modern technology. The clean lines and minimal details ensure that the watch remains visually stunning while delivering smart functionality through intuitive physical controls.

The tactile interface reduces dependence on touchscreen interactions that can be challenging in certain environments or activities. Physical controls provide reliable interaction methods that work regardless of weather conditions, glove use, or other factors that compromise touchscreen usability. It is an innovative device that serves as both a functional timepiece and a thoughtful piece of personal technology, respecting the wearer’s attention and aesthetic preferences.

What we like

Tactile controls provide reliable interaction regardless of environmental conditions.
Minimalist aesthetic serves as a sophisticated accessory rather than a distracting device.

What we dislike

Concept status means actual availability and pricing remain uncertain.
Limited screen space may restrict information display and app functionality.

3. Circular Ring 2

This innovative health monitoring ring packs over 13 health features into a 4-gram titanium band that operates silently around the clock. The device delivers comprehensive health data without the bulk of smartwatches or the ongoing subscription fees that plague many health wearables. Medical-grade ECG monitoring, blood pressure tracking, and blood glucose monitoring provide clinical-level insights into your cardiovascular and metabolic health.

The ring’s ability to detect early warning signs of health issues transforms reactive healthcare into proactive wellness management, potentially preventing serious medical events through early intervention. The ultra-light design ensures comfort during extended wear, while the titanium construction provides durability for daily activities. The integrated AI coach personalizes health recommendations based on your unique biometric patterns and lifestyle factors.

What we like

Medical-grade health monitoring in an ultra-light, discrete form factor.
No subscription fees required for comprehensive health tracking features.

What we dislike

Limited size options may not accommodate all finger measurements.
Requires consistent wearing to maintain accurate baseline health metrics.

4. Garmin Index Sleep Monitor

The Garmin Index Sleep Monitor provides near-accurate overnight data through upper arm placement rather than wrist-based tracking. This positioning offers more precise monitoring of sleep patterns, breathing, and recovery metrics compared to traditional smartwatch sleep tracking. The device uploads comprehensive sleep data to the Garmin Connect app, where it integrates with other Garmin devices to create a complete picture of health and recovery. This cross-platform data sharing fills gaps in health monitoring and provides more accurate insights into the relationship between sleep quality and daily performance.

The specialized sleep focus eliminates the compromises inherent in multi-purpose devices that attempt to monitor sleep alongside other activities. By dedicating the device exclusively to sleep monitoring, Garmin delivers more accurate and actionable insights into sleep quality, duration, and recovery patterns. The upper arm placement reduces movement artifacts that can compromise wrist-based sleep tracking while maintaining comfort throughout the night.

What we like

Upper arm placement provides more accurate sleep monitoring than wrist-based devices.
Seamless integration with the Garmin ecosystem creates a comprehensive health picture.

What we dislike

Single-purpose device requires additional wearables for daytime health tracking.
Upper arm placement may feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable for some users.

5. Even G1

The Even Realities G1 smart glasses deliver extended wearability through minimalist design and lightweight construction that eliminates unnecessary bulk. These glasses deliver essential smart features without the visual distraction or physical fatigue associated with more complex AR devices. The screwless construction reduces weight while maintaining structural integrity, creating a device that feels more like traditional eyewear than electronic hardware.

The distilled experience focuses on essential information delivery without overwhelming users with unnecessary features or visual noise. This restraint in design philosophy ensures that the glasses enhance rather than complicate daily activities. The lightweight materials and thoughtful construction allow for natural integration into professional and social environments where bulky technology would be inappropriate.

What we like

Lightweight construction enables comfortable extended wear throughout the day.
Minimalist design integrates naturally into professional and social environments.

What we dislike

Limited feature set may not satisfy users seeking comprehensive AR capabilities.
The subtle design approach may compromise the visibility of smart features.

6. Allai Wearable-1

The Allai Wearable-1 transforms from a smartwatch to a smart ring, adapting to different activities and monitoring needs throughout the day. This modular approach eliminates the need for multiple devices while providing specialized functionality for various situations. The NeuralTrack AI learns from daily routines and biometrics to deliver personalized insights that evolve with changing health patterns and lifestyle factors.

The device’s ability to identify subtle precursors to energy fluctuations or health issues transforms reactive monitoring into predictive wellness management that anticipates needs before symptoms appear. The FDA-cleared algorithms bring clinical-grade accuracy to everyday health monitoring, bridging the gap between consumer wearables and medical devices. This precision enables early detection of cardiovascular issues and other health concerns that might otherwise go unnoticed until symptoms become severe.

What we like

Modular design eliminates the need for separate smartwatch and smart ring devices.
FDA-cleared algorithms provide clinical-grade accuracy for health monitoring.

What we dislike

Modular components may be easily lost or damaged during transformation.
The complex AI system may require a significant data collection period for accurate insights.

7. Mimic

The Mimic wearable bridges the emotional gap between humans and humanoid robots by enabling intuitive teaching through natural movements. This lightweight device captures behavioral data as you perform daily tasks, allowing household robots to learn and adapt to your specific preferences and routines. The hands-on teaching approach creates emotional bonds with robotic assistants while reducing the psychological barriers that often accompany human-robot interaction.

The ergonomic design ensures seamless integration into daily activities without disrupting natural movements or workflows. The device’s intuitive interface eliminates the need for complex programming or technical knowledge to train robotic assistants. This democratization of robot programming transforms household automation from a luxury requiring technical expertise into an accessible tool for anyone.

What we like

The intuitive teaching method requires no technical programming knowledge.
Fosters emotional connection and reduces anxiety about robotic assistants.

What we dislike

Effectiveness depends on the availability of compatible humanoid robots.
Requires consistent wear during activities to build comprehensive behavioral data.

8. Thermal Earrings

The Thermal Earrings offer body temperature monitoring by using dual sensors to differentiate between body temperature and ambient conditions. This provides more accurate readings than smartwatches that cannot properly account for environmental temperature variations. The magnetic clip design ensures secure attachment, while the dangling sensor maintains proper spacing for accurate ambient temperature measurement.

For women, this precise temperature tracking enables more accurate ovulation and menstrual cycle monitoring, providing valuable insights for reproductive health management without the bulk or visibility of traditional tracking devices. The fashionable earring format transforms functional health monitoring into an accessory that complements personal style rather than compromising aesthetic choices.

What we like

Dual-sensor design provides more accurate temperature readings than wrist-based devices.
Fashionable format combines health monitoring with personal style expression.

What we dislike

Limited to temperature monitoring without broader health tracking capabilities.
Magnetic attachment may not be suitable for all ear shapes or jewelry preferences.

9. Oakley Meta AI Glasses

The Oakley Meta HSTN smart glasses combine the athletic aesthetic of Oakley with advanced smart functionality designed for active lifestyles. The IPX4 water resistance rating enables use during intense workouts, light rain, and sweaty activities where other smart glasses would fail. This weather resistance represents a genuine advantage for users who maintain active lifestyles or work in challenging environmental conditions.

The pronounced frames and signature Oakley design language signal performance-oriented functionality while delivering the same smart features as more fashion-focused alternatives. The sporty aesthetic appeals to users who prioritize function over subtle integration into formal environments. These glasses are ideal for outdoor activities, sports, and casual settings where durability and weather resistance matter more than discrete appearance.

What we like

IPX4 water resistance enables use during intense activities and challenging weather.
Bold athletic aesthetic appeals to users prioritizing function over subtle design.

What we dislike

Pronounced sporty design may not be appropriate for professional or formal environments.
Limited appeal to users preferring subtle or fashion-forward smart eyewear.

10. Vision Aid

The Vision Aid smart visor concept offers a new outlook to assistive technology by transforming existing innovations into powerful accessibility tools that enhance independence for visually impaired users. This thoughtful application of cutting-edge technology addresses real-world navigation challenges while respecting dignity and promoting self-reliance. The device repurposes established technologies rather than developing entirely new systems, creating a familiar yet revolutionary wearable solution.

The visor format provides comprehensive environmental awareness while maintaining the natural head positioning that visually impaired users develop for optimal hearing and spatial orientation. It focuses on navigation assistance and environmental awareness and handles core challenges that limit independence for visually impaired users. The wearable format allows for hands-free operation while providing continuous environmental feedback that supplements natural navigation skills.

What we like

Transforms existing technologies into powerful accessibility tools for independence.
Visor format maintains natural head positioning for optimal spatial awareness.

What we dislike

Concept status means actual availability and effectiveness remain unproven.
May require a significant training period for users to integrate effectively with existing navigation skills.

The Future of Personal Technology

The wearables featured here signal the arrival of truly intuitive technology that understands human behavior rather than demanding adaptation to digital interfaces. These devices are the best of miniaturization, sensor development, and design refinement that finally places human needs above technological spectacle. The shift from reactive monitoring to predictive assistance marks an important evolution in how personal technology serves daily life.

The different products embody a specific vision of seamless integration, whether through the tactical satisfaction of physical controls, the discrete monitoring of health metrics, or the empowering assistance for accessibility challenges. These smart wearables do not overwhelm users; instead, they deliver exactly what they need in a sleek, functional, and efficient form.

The post 10 Best Smart Wearables That Will Reshape Your Daily Routine In July 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Oakley partners with Axiom Space for lunar visor system

When the next astronauts walk on the Moon’s surface during the Artemis III mission, they’ll be seeing the lunar landscape through Oakley’s cutting-edge visor technology. The iconic eyewear brand has partnered with Axiom Space to develop the visor system for the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU), marking a groundbreaking collaboration between two distinct industries. This partnership represents more than just a technical achievement. It’s a strategic move that brings Oakley’s decades of optical innovation to the most challenging visual environment imaginable: space.

The visor system will feature Oakley’s next-generation High-Definition Optics (HDO) technology, the same advanced optical system used in their premium sunglasses. The lunar environment presents unique visual challenges that require specialized solutions. Light behaves differently in space, shadows run deeper, and the lack of atmosphere creates extreme contrasts between light and dark. The AxEMU visor system addresses these challenges with a sophisticated two-part deployable design that can be stowed when not needed and deployed for harsh lighting conditions.

Designer: Oakley for Axiom Space

One of the most striking features of the visor system is its 24-karat gold coating, which serves a crucial protective function, shielding users from extreme light conditions. The secondary helmet bubble not only shields users from UV radiation but also protects against lunar dust, a persistent challenge for equipment on the Moon’s surface. There will also be a two-part deployable visor with a sliding factor for adjustable protection.

Other features that will be included are tuned visible light transmittance, reduced haze for visual clarity, and multilayer coatings on both the internal surface and the secondary helmet bubble. The collaboration exemplifies Axiom Space’s strategy of bringing non-traditional aerospace partners into space exploration. They also tapped Prada for the outer materials of the suit and Nokia for the cellular network systems.

For Oakley, this partnership represents a historic milestone in their 50-year history. Ryan Saylor, Senior Vice President of Advanced Product Development at Oakley, described the responsibility of equipping lunar explorers with their technology as something they don’t take lightly. The company views this collaboration as the culmination of decades of relentless innovation in optical performance and visual acuity.

The timing of this announcement, coinciding with Oakley’s 50th anniversary celebration at their “Interplanetary Headquarters,” underscores the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of optical technology. The partnership ensures that when astronauts return to the Moon for the first time in over 50 years, they’ll have the clearest possible vision of humanity’s next great adventure.

The post Oakley partners with Axiom Space for lunar visor system first appeared on Yanko Design.

Ceramic chair-themed chess set can turn game night into a work of art

Chair Chess represents a remarkable reimagining of the classic board game, transforming the traditional battlefield into an intimate domestic space. This innovative design by 4AM Product Design takes the ancient game of strategy and infuses it with contemporary furniture aesthetics, creating something entirely new in the world of chess sets. Rather than traditional kings, queens, and pawns, each piece is crafted as a miniature chair, stool, or seat, each with its own distinct personality and posture. The ceramic pieces, available in contrasting blue and white colorways, transform the chess board from a war zone into a gathering place where furniture pieces engage in thoughtful conversation rather than battle.

Chair Chess is also special because of its portable nature. The board itself abandons the rigid wooden or marble surfaces we’re accustomed to, instead featuring a soft textile grid that can fold, wrap, and travel like a rug. This textile board, woven in the classic checkered pattern, brings an unexpected warmth and tactility to the game. The fabric construction means the entire set can be folded into a compact carrying case, making it perfect for travel or storage.

Designer: 4AM Product Design

The design philosophy behind Chair Chess reflects a deeper understanding of how objects can carry emotional weight. Each ceramic piece is created using a sophisticated process that combines 3D modeling and printing with traditional ceramic casting techniques. This hybrid approach allows for precise, repeatable forms while maintaining the handcrafted quality that makes each piece feel personal and unique.

The visual impact of Chair Chess is undeniable. When set up for play, the board becomes a miniature architectural landscape, with each piece suggesting different seating arrangements and spatial relationships. The chairs seem to face each other across the board, creating the impression of an ongoing dialogue rather than a confrontation. This transforms the act of playing chess from a competitive exercise into something more contemplative and meditative.

The practical benefits of the textile board extend beyond portability. The soft surface provides a gentle landing for the ceramic pieces, reducing the risk of chips or breaks that plague traditional chess sets. The fabric also dampens sound, making gameplay quieter and more intimate. When not in use, the board can serve as a decorative textile element in the home. Chair Chess appeals to multiple audiences simultaneously. Chess enthusiasts will appreciate the full functionality of the set, while design lovers will be drawn to its sculptural qualities. The pieces work beautifully as standalone decorative objects, and the set can easily transition from game to art installation. This versatility makes it an ideal gift for anyone who appreciates thoughtful design.

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