Jun
18

By

Small Change, Big Impact: Ikea Ditching Plastic Bags for Holding Fasteners

Category: Core77

Ikea has set the ambitious goal of eliminating all virgin plastic from their products by 2030. They also aim to ditch virgin plastic in their packaging a bit sooner, by 2028. In order to achieve the latter, they’ve had to make a small change with a large impact: Getting rid of those little plastic bags that their fasteners come in, swapping in paper bags instead.

“The bags are produced in-house using paper made from production waste,” says Lukas Exner, Production & Distribution Manager at IKEA Components, who adds that then bags took several years of testing to develop. The payoff, he reckons, will be worth it. “This shift will reduce our virgin plastic consumption by up to 1,400 tons annually. It clearly shows how even the smallest change can generate great results.”

In order to make the new bags durable enough to hold fasteners, the company found they had to add a “thin plastic coating,” but says the bags are still recyclable. They also say they’re “investigating the possibility of replacing this plastic coating with renewable materials.”

For now the paper bags are being added only to new Ikea products, presumably because it takes a while to alter incumbent production lines. But by 2028, they say, all of the plastic bags will be gone.

Jun
18

By

This Dream Recorder Records Your Dreams for Playback

Category: Core77

The 1991 Wim Wenders movie “Until the End of the World” had a fascinating premise, about a scientist inventing a device to allow his blind wife to see. The invention, connected to the scientist’s head by electrodes, records the biochemical event of seeing. The device would then be physically connected to his wife, and it would transfer the visual data to her brain, bypassing her eyes, and allowing her to “see” whatever had been recorded.

However, the wife dies due to an illness, and it’s subsequently discovered that if you leave the device attached when you go to sleep, it can be used to record your dreams. People then become addicted to watching their own dreams the next morning, with it being presented as more alluring than any drug.

Now a Dutch design studio and think tank called Modem claims to have developed a similar machine. Their Dream Recorder is a “magical bedside device” billed as “a portal to your subconscious.”

The idea is that when you wake up, you describe your dream to the device, and a “dream weaving” AI model generates video of its interpretation of your dream. It’s then played back on the device’s screen for you.

Ultra-Low Definition DreamscapesDream Recorder translates your subconscious into ultra-low-definition, impressionistic dreamscapes. After you recount your dream in your preferred language, it’s transformed into a short-form reel, rendered in a preselected visual style.

The Ultimate Dream JournalDream Recorder brings dream journaling into the intelligence era, preserving your dreams as visual records. Replay your dream and reflect on its symbolic meanings, tracing patterns that echo into waking life.

In the Wim Wenders movie, there’s only one dream-recording prototype, and multiple parties and government agents are trying to get their hands on it. Modem has a very different idea. Their Dream Recorder isn’t a secretive prototype they’re guarding or a commercial product they’re flogging. It was created in the name of research, and the design is available to all:

DIY by Design

Dream Recorder is built with a DIY spirit. The entire device is fully open source, including the code, hardware documentation, and the 3D-printable glow-in-the-dark shell. Download everything from GitHub, gather the off-the-shelf components, and assemble it yourself. No soldering required.

You can learn more here.

Jun
18

By

Nezza Sings the National Anthem in Spanish and Almost Gets Banned for Life

Category: Nuestro Stories

Last weekend, on June 14, Latina singer Nezza walked into Dodgers stadium as a little-known rising star. Today, she’s being called brave, bold, and a modern-day civil rights activist. Why? Because she did something that was utterly simple yet revolutionary. She sang the official United States national anthem in Spanish. And it nearly got her banned for life.

Nezza Sings the National Anthem in Spanish

On what should’ve been a career highlight, the 30-year-old Colombian-Dominican artist (born Vanessa Hernandez) almost got banned after singing her country’s national anthem. She showed up at a Dodgers home game proudly planning to sing the official Spanish-language version, El Pendón Estrellado, a historically accurate rendition authorized by the U.S. government in 1945.

Instead, moments before the performance, she was told not to. KTLA reports that a Dodgers staffer approached her backstage with a clear directive: English only. Nezza, visibly shaken in a TikTok posted after the game, explained why she chose to defy that instruction:

“It is the official Star Spangled Banner in Spanish. You can Google it. … I didn’t think I would be met with any sort of like ‘no,’ especially because we’re in LA and with everything happening,” she said. “And I’ve sang the national anthem many times in my life, but today, out of all days, I could not. I’m sorry. I just could not believe when she walked in and told me ‘no.’ But I just felt like I needed to do it para mi gente.”

And so she did. She sang the national anthem in Spanish on live television, in front of tens of thousands with zero apology.

Wait. Is That Even Allowed?

Here’s where the story gets interesting: not only is singing The Star-Spangled Banner in Spanish totally allowed, but it’s also a forgotten part of U.S. history.

The version Nezza performed was created by another proud Latina, Clotilde Arias, a Peruvian-American composer and activist commissioned by the U.S. Department of State in 1945. Arias’ translation was part of a World War II-era cultural diplomacy initiative—aka the “Good Neighbor Policy”—meant to strengthen ties with Latin America. Her lyrics mirror the English anthem almost word for word, and hers remains the only official, singable Spanish-language translation recognized by the U.S. government.

Let’s put that in simpler terms: Nezza was following protocol, just one that too many people forgot existed.

Was There Backlash? Oh, Absolutely.

Following her viral performance, the Dodgers issued a PR Band-Aid, saying, “She was not asked to leave. We would be happy to have her back.” But Nezza tells a different story.

“Before I even left the stadium, we were told verbatim: ‘Don’t ever call us again, don’t ever email us again, your clients are never welcome here ever again,’ and then they hung up,” she told NBC4.

RELATED POST: The U.S. National Anthem … en Español!

The majority of her fans, and new followers, are proud of Nezza.

“She’ll never sing for the Dodgers again. Good for her. These are the ‘sacrifices’ we must make for progress,” one commenter on TikTok wrote.

Even with the team walking back their reaction, Nezza’s heart doesn’t seem to be in a reunion. “Regardless if I’m welcome back,” she said. “I don’t feel welcome to come back.”

Who Is Nezza?

Her newfound fame has many asking: who is Nezza? The daughter of immigrants was born in Northern California, and is of Dominican and Colombian decent. Nezza grew up in a bilingual home and moved to L.A. to chase her dreams. From music and dance to YouTube videos and mental health advocacy, she’s part Gen Z pop star, part digital soul sister. And now, she’s the face of a larger, national conversation.

“I really just wanted to go out there and make the Latin community feel included,” she said.

She did.

And, as the audience witnessed, Nezza didn’t yell, march, or angrily flip a table to get the Latino community’s attention. She just sang. And, by choosing Spanish (a language spoken at home by over 41 million Americans) she lit a fire under a long-smoldering truth: Latinos are part of America. They’ve always been here. They’ve always contributed. And they’re not going anywhere.

Thank you, Nezza.

Feature photo credit: TikTok @babynezza.

The post Nezza Sings the National Anthem in Spanish and Almost Gets Banned for Life appeared first on Nuestro Stories.

Jun
18

By

AEMotion’s Designers Tackle the Challenge of an Oddly-Proportioned Vehicle

Category: Core77

Here’s a unique new vehicle, the Dual, that I believe is based on a flawed premise. But it’s worth looking at for several reasons, including the passion behind the project—French company AEMotion has spent a decade developing it—and how the designers solved a challenging aspect of the form.

The concept of the Dual is to combine the agility of a motorcycle with the safety of a car. I say the premise is flawed because while you can enclose the occupants within a fortified compartment with seatbelts, as AEMotion has done, the entire vehicle still lacks the mass of a car. And in collisions, mass counts for a lot.

That said, the physical design is fascinating, and the designers had their work cut out for them. It’s difficult to make such an oddly-proportioned vehicle attractive, and the designers tackled this by visually breaking the awkwardly tall, narrow vehicle into two halves, a top and a bottom. This approach, of using color and a straight line to bisect the vehicle horizontally, goes a long way towards making it easy on the eyes. The top half has a sleek, Jetsons-esque look, while the bottom half—whose multiple angles and surfaces, required to accommodate the vehicle’s unique leaning ability, is masked in black. Thus the overall effect is of a floating silver capsule.

The Dual is electric and seats two, with the passenger behind the driver. A small luggage compartment is behind the passenger seat.

At just 79cm (31.1″) wide, it’s made for lane-splitting.

The company has carefully thought through the Dual’s use cases, and offers two battery options. One is swappable, with a modest range of 70km (43.5 miles). This is ideal for city dwellers or fleet operators seeking to minimize downtime. The second option is for a fixed battery, which boasts a 200km (124.3 mile) range. This is the better choice for those who need to travel long distances—a long-range commuter, for instance—and can afford for the vehicle to sit idle while it charges.

The vehicle tops out at 115 km/h (71.5 mph).

From a UX perspective, one compromise that I assume was made for mechanical reasons is that the compartment is not completely enclosed. The occupants’ feet and ankles are exposed to the elements. Whether or not this is a problem in a downpour remains to be seen.

Pricing has not been announced, but the company is said to be considering a lease or subscription model that would likely include maintenance and support. For a new type of vehicle like this, I think that’s a smart way to go; customers wouldn’t have to assume the risk of a full purchase. No launch date was named at press time. The company is asking interested parties to register an e-mail address with them for notification of availability.

Here’s a prototype on the road:

Jun
18

By

Top 10 Scandinavian-Inspired Homes That Perfectly Capture Nordic Design & Architecture

Category: YankoDesign

Scandinavian-inspired homes have an enduring appeal rooted in their effortless mix of functionality, warmth, and tranquility. These dwellings are more than just spaces—they are calm sanctuaries where light, nature, and simplicity work in harmony. This design philosophy captures the essence of Nordic living, embracing honest materials, thoughtful craftsmanship, and an appreciation for the surrounding landscape.

Nestled in forests, perched on lakes, or cleverly placed in urban settings, these homes invite inhabitants to slow down and savor daily life. From floating houseboats on Dorset’s lakes to compact cabins tucked into the woods, every home in the collection showcases a unique blend of modernity and tradition. If you find yourself drawn to serene interiors, natural textures, and spaces designed for genuine living, these ten Scandinavian-inspired homes will spark new ideas for your retreat.

1. Luna

The Luna cabin is a compact celebration of Scandinavian warmth and ingenuity. Its asymmetrical roofline gives it a playful silhouette, while the interior draws on Nordic traditions of coziness and simplicity. Clad in natural wood, the cabin is designed to withstand harsh winters, with thick insulation and efficient heating ensuring comfort all year round.

As you enter the home, you’re welcomed by a space that feels both intimate and expansive. High ceilings and clever window placement flood the interior with daylight, while the layout keeps every corner accessible. The palette is soft and neutral, punctuated by warm textiles and carefully chosen accents. Luna is a reminder of how Scandinavian design can make even the smallest spaces feel inviting and complete.

What we like

• Efficient layout in a compact footprint.

• All-season comfort with strong insulation.

What we dislike

• Limited storage for long-term living.

• Asymmetrical design may not appeal to all tastes.

2. Silverlake

Located on the tranquil lakes of Dorset, UK, the Silverlake houseboats bring Nordic minimalism to a unique waterside setting. Designed in collaboration between Koto and Waterpod, these floating homes feature pale timber exteriors and expansive glass doors that open onto generous decks. The interiors are luminous and pared back, using natural materials and a soft palette to create a sense of calm. Every inch is thoughtfully arranged, allowing for seamless transitions between living, dining, and sleeping spaces.

Sustainable materials and careful detailing enhance the floating experience, while large windows invite the outdoors in. These houseboats offer a peaceful, clutter-free refuge that balances privacy with a strong connection to water and sky. The result is a distinctive blend of Scandinavian tradition and innovative, water-based living, perfectly suited to the serene landscape of Dorset.

What we like

• Maximizes natural light and lake views.

• Clutter-free interiors feel spacious.

What we dislike

• Limited outdoor space compared to land homes.

• Higher maintenance due to an aquatic setting.

3. Kemi 2025 Model

The Kemi 2025 model by Dragon Tiny Homes captures Scandinavian style in an affordable, family-friendly package. Vertical wood cladding and black window trims create a geometric, modern look, while the compact porch and high ceilings boost the sense of space inside. Clever built-in storage and convertible furnishings keep the open-plan layout flexible and efficient.

Soft, neutral tones and ample daylight make the interior warm and welcoming. Every feature is designed for maximum function, inviting families to embrace minimalist living. The Kemi balances practicality with the soothing clarity that defines Nordic design, delivering comfort without clutter.

What we like

• Affordable and well-designed for families.

• Flexible layout and smart storage.

What we dislike

• Compact floor plan may feel tight.

• Limited customization options.

4. Yngsjö

Yngsjö, set in a Swedish forest, hovers above the landscape on slender supports, offering sweeping treetop views from every room. The exterior’s natural wood cladding ages gracefully with the seasons, while floor-to-ceiling windows wrap the living spaces in gentle, shifting light. Interiors are minimalist, with pale woods and soft fabrics fostering a tranquil, cocoon-like atmosphere.

Open-plan spaces flow seamlessly onto decks, dissolving boundaries between inside and out. The constant connection to nature encourages a sense of peace and reflection. Yngsjö is a sanctuary that channels the calm and clarity at the heart of Scandinavian modernism. It feels like a hidden retreat, yet its walls dissolve into the forest, making you feel part of the landscape.

What we like

• Immersive views and natural integration.

• Minimalist, soothing interiors.

What we dislike

• Elevated design can limit accessibility.

• Remote location means longer supply trips.

5. Grafton House

Grafton House merges Scandinavian modernism with bohemian touches, wrapped in oiled cedar that radiates warmth. Expansive windows and sliding doors fill the home with California light, while clean lines and natural materials provide a serene backdrop for daily life. Inside, Nordic minimalism meets eclectic art and vintage finds, creating a home that feels curated and personal.

The layout supports both solitude and social gatherings, with flexible spaces that adapt to changing needs. Grafton House is a vibrant example of Scandinavian-inspired living that doesn’t shy away from creativity or individuality, blending order with expressive comfort. It is proof that Scandinavian design can be both disciplined and expressive, creating a home that feels at once orderly and alive.

What we like

• Features warm materials and abundant daylight.

• Flexible, inviting interiors.

What we dislike

• Urban setting offers less privacy.

• Cedar exterior requires upkeep.

6. Nokken Cabins

Nokken Cabins are a vision of future Scandinavian retreats—modular, prefab, and ready for any landscape. Designed to function as luxury resorts or private getaways, each cabin features a compact footprint with an emphasis on panoramic views. The exterior is finished in dark, weather-resistant materials that recede into the landscape, while expansive glazing brings the outdoors to the heart of the home.

The interiors are a masterclass in clever spatial planning. Every element is considered, from built-in beds and storage to kitchenettes that tuck away when not needed. The palette is serene, with pale woods and soft textiles encouraging rest. The cabins feel both intimate and open, making them ideal for solo escapes or romantic weekends.

What we like

• Modular design adapts to different needs.

• Luxurious yet compact interiors.

What we dislike

• Limited space for large families.

• Prefab construction may restrict customization.

7. Redukt’s Tiny Home on Wheels

Redukt’s tiny home on wheels brings Scandinavian sensibility to the open road. Built in Poland, it features oiled pine boards that give the exterior a soft, natural look, while twin glass doors nearly reach the floor, dissolving the barrier between inside and out. Designed for off-grid living, the home is equipped with thermal insulation and a clever use of space, making it a cozy refuge in any season.

The interior is a celebration of streamlined living. Multifunctional furniture—like tables that convert to beds—and smart storage solutions keep the space tidy and adaptable. The palette is kept light and airy, with pale woods and simple fixtures reflecting daylight. This tiny home is ideal for families who crave adventure and simplicity, all wrapped in a Scandinavian package.

What we like

• Mobile design for flexible living.

• Efficient, clutter-free interiors.

What we dislike

• Limited living space for extended stays.

• Off-grid features may require occasional maintenance.

8. The Nook

The Nook is a tiny cabin that fuses Scandinavian and Japanese influences, built from local trees with a deep respect for craftsmanship. Its simple, gabled form recalls classic Nordic cabins, while the interiors are a study in serene minimalism. Exposed wood beams and floor-to-ceiling windows frame the surrounding forest, making the landscape an integral part of the home.

The interior of the cabin is spare but welcoming, with flexible spaces that adapt to sleeping, working, or relaxing. The focus is on natural materials and tactile finishes, from hand-built shelves to woven mats. The Nook feels like a meditation on simplicity, where every detail is intentional and every view is a reminder of nature’s beauty. The careful joinery and open layout speak to both Scandinavian and Japanese sensibilities, creating a space that feels universal yet deeply personal.

What we like

• Harmonious blend of Scandinavian and Japanese styles.

• Built from sustainable, local materials.

What we dislike

• Minimal storage may limit use for families.

• Remote location may require creative utility solutions.

9. Heatherhill Beach House

Heatherhill Beach House, designed by Norm Architects, sits gently on the Danish coastline, surrounded by dunes and native grasses. The exterior is clad in warm cedar, which weathers beautifully over time, blending the house with its natural setting. Large windows and sliding glass doors frame sweeping views of the landscape, filling the home with soft, coastal light.

The open-plan living area is anchored by natural textures and a muted palette, creating a calm, inviting retreat for summer days.  Custom woodwork, cozy built-ins, and carefully placed furnishings foster a sense of effortless ease. The design encourages a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting residents to relax on the terrace or gather around the hearth.

What we like

• Beautiful integration with the coastal landscape.

• Warm, calming interiors with abundant light.

What we dislike

• Exposed location may require extra upkeep.

• Seasonal design may feel less suited to winter living.

10. Elsa

Elsa is a tiny home that brings a playful twist to Scandinavian design. The exterior is clean and simple, with a small greenhouse attached for year-round gardening and a porch swing for lazy afternoons. Inside, the space is filled with natural light, thanks to generous windows and a thoughtful layout that keeps every corner usable.

The interior palette is pure Nordic—light woods, white shiplap, and accents of green. Clever storage solutions and convertible furniture keep clutter at bay, while the greenhouse brings a sense of vitality to daily life. Elsa invites you to slow down, tend plants, or enjoy a swing while soaking up the sun. This home is proof that Scandinavian design can be joyful as well as serene.

What we like

• Includes a greenhouse for year-round gardening.

• The inviting porch swing encourages relaxation.

What we dislike

• Small size may not suit all lifestyles.

• Climate may limit greenhouse use in some regions.

The post Top 10 Scandinavian-Inspired Homes That Perfectly Capture Nordic Design & Architecture first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jun
18

By

QBO3 arquitectos embeds casa enoki’s staggered platforms in tropical forest of costa rica 

Category: Design Boom

Casa Enoki’s geometric volumes follow the sloped terrain

 

Casa Enoki, designed by QBO3 Arquitectos, is situated on the Papagayo Peninsula in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The residence emerges from a steeply sloped site within a dry tropical forest, prompting a design approach that minimizes ecological impact while engaging with the surrounding landscape. The architectural response is shaped by the terrain itself. Habitable platforms are staggered along the natural contours of the site, reducing the need for extensive land modification. Existing vegetation is preserved and integrated into the project, contributing to environmental continuity and site-specific adaptation.

 

A key design strategy is the use of the horizon line as an organizing system. The layout aligns social areas, such as the living room, dining space, kitchen, and terraces, toward panoramic ocean views. In contrast, the private zones, including bedrooms, are positioned with a more inward focus, yet maintain visual and spatial links to the natural setting. This spatial arrangement ensures that the architecture remains oriented to its context rather than dominating it. The entry sequence is designed to unfold gradually. A compressed threshold space opens into a larger volume, with double-height ceilings and cantilevered elements framing views of the Pacific Ocean. Each volume is oriented to capture specific visual connections to the surrounding environment, creating a continuous relationship between structure and landscape.

all images by Depth Lens unless stated otherwise

 

 

QBO3 Arquitectos’ material selection ensures neutral visual tone

 

The material selection by QBO3 Arquitectos Studio supports the architectural intent. Exposed concrete provides structural clarity and a neutral visual tone that references the natural rock formations of the site. Locally sourced tropical wood adds texture and warmth, while floor-to-ceiling glazing strengthens the link between interior and exterior spaces. Cross-ventilation is used throughout the house, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The construction process reflects a low-impact strategy. Foundations are selectively anchored to minimize disturbance, and circulation paths are arranged to follow natural site conditions. The building mass is distributed across multiple levels, adapting to the slope and allowing for a more discreet presence within the environment.

 

Casa Enoki is composed of horizontal volumes that emphasize visual continuity with the horizon and landscape. Rather than serving as a dominant object, the architecture operates as a framing device, one that enables spatial, climatic, and visual engagement with its context.

main facade and its volumetric composition

main entrance, the connection to the horizon line | image by Tirso

connecting bridge between the green terrace and the entertainment area | image by Povtiago

aerial view of the context of Peninsula Papagayo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

crafted to breathe with the landscape

nestled in nature, Enoki House blurs the line between indoors and out | image by Tirso

 

composition of the pool lines and the natural context | image by Tirso

Casa Enoki House in perfect harmony | image by Tirso

minimal lines, maximum connection | image by Tirso

the double height of the social area

the architectural elements merge with the view | image by Tirso

a quiet retreat sculpted for stillness and light

 

project info:

 

name: Casa Enoki
architects: QBO3 Arquitectos | @qbo3arquitectos

location: Guanacaste, Costa Rica

 

interior design: Sofia Interiorismo | @sofiainteriorismo

photographer: Hugo Tirso – Mavix | @tirso______ | @mavix, Alvaro Fonseca – Depth Lens | @depth.lens, Tiago | @povtiago

videographer: Hugo Tirso – Mavix | @arquitectonica_

 

 

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

The post QBO3 arquitectos embeds casa enoki’s staggered platforms in tropical forest of costa rica  appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Jun
18

By

Ovalware Collection brings elegant functionality to coffee and tea brewing process

Category: YankoDesign

I’m a huge coffee and tea drinker and yet over the past couple of years, I’ve been drinking these beverages more outside the house at cafes and restaurants. Ideally, I should learn to make my own coffee and brew my own tea as it’s cheaper and also it should be fun to experiment with methods and recipes. I’ve made a lot of excuses as to why I’m not doing this yet and one of those is that I’m looking for the perfect tools and accessories that will make the experience better.

When I saw this Ovalware Collection designed by Aleš Boem, I thought they would fit in perfectly with what I’ve been dreaming my home cafe should look like. This collection is a celebration of form, function, and the art of brewing which is perfect for anyone who finds joy in the little moments of their daily coffee or tea ritual. Each piece is a study in minimalism, with soft, oval contours (since it’s for Ovalware after all) that feel as inviting as they look. The collection includes a range of glassware and accessories, all unified by their gentle curves and a sense of quiet sophistication.

Designer: Aleš Boem

The glass carafes and cups are visually light, yet they have a presence that stands out on any countertop or coffee table. The subtlety of the oval shapes isn’t just about aesthetics but also about how these objects feel in your hand, making every pour and sip feel special. The designer’s approach goes beyond mere appearance. The tactile experience is central to the Ovalware Collection. The smoothness of the glass, the comfortable grip of each handle, and the balanced weight of every piece reflect a deep understanding of user experience. For those who appreciate design that delights all the senses, these details make the collection a joy to use.

What’s particularly wonderful about the Ovalware Collection is how it elevates the act of brewing. The set includes a sleek, transparent carafe which is ideal for pour-over coffee or loose-leaf tea brewing, along with matching cups and a coffee dripper. The transparency of the glass invites you to appreciate the brewing process, turning it into a meditative ritual. Watching your coffee bloom or your tea infuse becomes a moment to pause and appreciate. Collectors will find the modularity and stackability of these pieces especially appealing. Their uniform shapes allow for beautiful arrangements, whether displayed on open shelves or lined up in a dedicated brewing nook.

Each piece in the collection looks like an invitation to slow down and savor the experience of making and enjoying a hot beverage. The restrained color palette and timeless form mean these items will never feel dated and they’re designed to be cherished for years, perhaps even passed down as heirlooms. Every item is both a functional tool and a work of art. The collection bridges the gap between everyday use and collectible design, making it perfect for those who curate their homes with intention and care.

The post Ovalware Collection brings elegant functionality to coffee and tea brewing process first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jun
18

By

Modular hair iron concept brings curls, waves, straight hair

Category: YankoDesign

I’m the wash and wear kind of person when it comes to my hair, no matter what length or style I’m sporting. But I know that there are a lot of girls (and boys) that rely a lot on various tools and accessories when it comes to fixing and styling their hair. Hair irons are particularly useful and popular for those who want to straighten and style their hair so we don’t run out of products and even concepts for these.

Designer Tae Hyeong Kim has come up with a concept called MOHA! or Modular Hair Iron. It’s a smart and collector-worthy invention (well if it sees the light of day) that brings professional styling power to your vanity table. It streamlines your routine with its modular design so whether you need a straightener, curling iron, or waver, you can just swap out the various attachments. Whether you want sleek straight hair, bouncy curls, or trendy waves, MOHA! transforms in seconds to suit your mood.

Designer: Tae Hyeong Kim

The design philosophy shines through in MOHA!’s minimalist yet playful look. The iron features smooth, rounded edges and comes in a palette of soft, modern colors that make it feel more like a designer accessory than a utilitarian appliance. The modular components click together with satisfying precision, offering a tactile experience every time you use or reconfigure it. Each attachment is crafted with care, showing off Kim’s attention to both function and form. The modular nature also means future upgrades or limited-edition plates could make this an ever-evolving collectible.

This isn’t just looks as safety and ease of use are baked into every detail. The device heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly, which means fewer passes, less damage, and faster styling. Swapping out attachments is intuitive: just a simple click and you’re ready for your next look. There’s even a thoughtful power cord design that swivels, so you won’t get tangled up mid-style.

This hair iron concept is a celebration of creativity, design, and smart living. Whether you’re a beauty enthusiast, a collector of innovative gadgets, or just someone who wants more from their morning routine, this modular hair iron is sure to delight. It’s sleek, sustainable, and endlessly versatile and can be a worthy addition to any collection or daily regimen.

The post Modular hair iron concept brings curls, waves, straight hair first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jun
18

By

OYO architects carves triangular incision into belgium farmhouse to form luminous courtyard

Category: Design Boom

oyo architects revitalizes lyco house in belgium

 

A sharp triangular void cuts into the heart of a former farmhouse in rural Belgium. The incision brings light, air, and spatial clarity into a previously dark, enclosed volume, which OYO Architects has revitalized with minimal interventions to create a contemporary family home. Located on a quiet estate in Pepingen and surrounded by open green fields, LYCO House still presents itself as a modest brick barn from the outside.

 

Stepping through to the garden side, its geometry shifts and the new courtyard — carved directly from the barn’s existing structure — reorganizes the plan and movement through its clean angles, drawing the eye across diagonal sightlines and down toward the greenery. Inside, domestic spaces are gathered around this cut, with double-height ceilings, layered floor levels, and a palette of pine, steel, and muted concrete lending the interiors both texture and softness.

all images by Karen Van der Biest

 

 

minimal interventions infuse the farmhouse with light

 

Without altering the original barn’s street-facing facades, OYO Architects has carved a triangular void from the structure’s center, inserting a light-filled courtyard that now forms the project’s spatial and symbolic core. This cutaway defines the intervention’s character, reorienting the house toward the landscape and drawing daylight deep into the space. Inside, the circulation is anchored by a bespoke green steel staircase fabricated by Atelier Manus, winding past an elevated terrace and leading up to a mezzanine under the gable roof, connecting bedrooms and shared living areas through a rhythm of open landings and sheltered nooks.

In the kitchen, the Ghent- and Barcelona-based studio has positioned a salmon-toned island at the center of the plan as a counterbalance to the home’s neutral tones. Custom joinery in dark finishes, grey cement floors, and pale timber ceilings round out the palette, creating a sequence of spaces that feel grounded and adaptable.

OYO Architects transforms a former farmhouse in rural Belgium

 

 

enhanced energy performance

 

As the architects describe it, the approach to LYCO House was primarily about working closely with what already existed and uplifting the house to meet modern energy standards. Much of the original barn volume has been preserved as a frame to be carefully repaired and reinhabited. Alongside this, insulation, solar panels, and updated energy systems are woven into the fabric of the building for visually discrete enhanced performance. OYO Architects has also integrated generous, deep windows which, alongside the glazed cuts, introduce daylight into the core of the home and invite cross-ventilation. As almost porous boundaries, these also create soft transitions between interior and exterior, taking advantage of the quiet, natural setting. 

This care extends outwards into the garden where landscape architect Denis Dujardin has shaped a calm, layered terrain of native vegetation, winding footpaths, and a shallow rain-fed pond that slowly returns water back into the soil.

a sharp triangular void cuts into the volume

the incision forms a courtyard infused with light and air

located on a quiet estate in Pepingen and surrounded by open green fields

the intervention reorganizes the plan and movement through clean angles

a salmon-toned island at the center of the plan as a counterbalance to the home’s neutral tone

the circulation is anchored by a bespoke green steel staircase fabricated by Atelier Manus,

connecting bedrooms and shared living areas through a rhythm of open landings and sheltered nooks

light-infused bedroom

insulation, solar panels, and updated energy systems are woven into the fabric of the building

deep windows alongside the glazed cuts introduce daylight into the core of the home and invite cross-ventilation

the original brick structure

 

 

project info:

 

name: LYCO House

architect: OYO Architects | @oyoarchitects

location: Pepingen, Belgium

photographer: Karen Van der Biest | @karen.vanderbiest

The post OYO architects carves triangular incision into belgium farmhouse to form luminous courtyard appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Jun
18

By

acne studios launches permanent gallery space under the arcades of paris’s palais royal

Category: Design Boom

acne studios launches its first permanent art space in paris

 

Acne Studios unveils a new permanent gallery space in Paris, Acne Paper Palais Royal, which opens to the public on June 26th, 2025, with a solo exhibition by photographer Paul Kooiker. Located at 124 Galerie de Valois, beneath the historic arcades of the Palais Royal and overlooking its iconic gardens, the space marks a significant chapter for the Swedish fashion house as it extends its presence beyond fashion into the realms of art, exhibitions, and cultural events.

images courtesy of Acne Studios

 

 

from magazine to life

 

The gallery is named after Acne Paper, the biannual magazine of the Stockholm-based house, featuring fashion, art, design, and writing. Much like the magazine, this new space is designed to host a mix of creative content that spans from art shows and photography exhibitions to talks, book signings, and cultural events. It’s intended as a space for dialogue and experimentation, where both well-known and emerging artists can share work and ideas.

 

The first exhibition at Acne Paper Palais Royal will feature new works by Dutch photographer Paul Kooiker, known for his unusual, stylized images that often explore the human body in surreal or theatrical ways. This choice fits well with Acne Studios’ visual identity and its longtime interest in photography and conceptual image-making. Since its founding in 1996 in Stockholm as a multidisciplinary collective, Acne Studios has treated fashion as just one part of a larger creative practice. This gallery in Paris reinforces that approach, placing the brand in one of the most iconic cultural locations of the city.

Acne Studios opens a new permanent gallery space in Paris

the gallery opens to the public on June 26th, 2025

the first exhibition at Acne Paper Palais Royal will feature new works by Dutch photographer Paul Kooiker

a major step for the Swedish fashion brand

the gallery is named after Acne Paper, the biannual magazine of the brand | via @acnestudios

the first exhibition will feature new works by Paul Kooiker | Paul Kooiker for ACNE PAPER issue 20 via @paulkooiker

the artist is known for his unusual, stylized images | Paul Kooiker for ACNE PAPER issue 20 via @paulkooiker

exploring the human body in surreal or theatrical ways | Paul Kooiker for ACNE PAPER issue 20 via @paulkooiker

 

 

project info:

 

name: Acne Paper Palais Royal

brand: Acne Studios | @acnestudios

location: 124 Galerie de Valois, Palais Royal, 75001 Paris, France

opening date: June 26th, 2025

 

inaugural exhibition: Paul Kooiker | @paulkooiker

The post acne studios launches permanent gallery space under the arcades of paris’s palais royal appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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