Sustainable Design - Yanko Design https://www.yankodesign.com Modern Industrial Design News Tue, 17 Jun 2025 18:39:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 Luxurious & Sustainable Floating Homes Bring Modern Scandinavian Design To Dorset’s Lakes https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/17/luxurious-sustainable-floating-homes-bring-modern-scandinavian-design-to-dorsets-lakes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=luxurious-sustainable-floating-homes-bring-modern-scandinavian-design-to-dorsets-lakes Tue, 17 Jun 2025 19:15:37 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=559093

Luxurious & Sustainable Floating Homes Bring Modern Scandinavian Design To Dorset’s Lakes

Floating quietly on the lakes of Dorset, a new breed of houseboat is redefining waterside living. Called Silverlake, these architect-designed residences are the result of...
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Floating quietly on the lakes of Dorset, a new breed of houseboat is redefining waterside living. Called Silverlake, these architect-designed residences are the result of a collaboration between design studio Koto and Waterpod, bringing together Scandinavian restraint and a deep respect for nature. The vision is simple: to offer a home that feels both rooted and free, where modern comforts coexist with the gentle rhythms of water and wildlife.

The exterior lines are clean and minimal, echoing the best of Nordic modular architecture. Large windows and natural timber finishes anchor each houseboat in its surroundings, blurring the boundary between inside and out. Every angle is considered, every space intentional. From the deck, the ever-changing play of light on the water becomes part of daily life, offering a sense of calm that’s rare in traditional homes.

Designer: Koto & Waterpod

The layout of the home balances openness and privacy. Living rooms spill out onto terraces, kitchens are compact yet fully equipped, and bedrooms are designed for restful quiet. Thoughtfully built-in maximizes storage without intruding on the aesthetic. Soft, neutral palettes and tactile materials create a welcoming backdrop, inviting residents to shape the space to their rhythms. It’s a home that adapts easily—ideal for full-time living or restful weekends away.

What makes these floating homes unique is their commitment to sustainability. Constructed with responsibly sourced materials, the houseboats rely on energy-efficient systems and low-impact building methods. The floating foundation itself disturbs little of the natural ecosystem, while the design encourages a lighter environmental footprint. Living here is as much about stewardship as it is about comfort, with every detail supporting a harmonious relationship with the water and land.

Flexibility is another key strength. Each residence offers a customizable interior, with options for layout and finishes to suit individual preferences. The moorings at Silverlake provide both privacy and access to a vibrant community, where woodland walks and water sports are steps away. It’s a setting that fosters both solitude and connection, making it an appealing choice for families, couples, or solo dwellers seeking something out of the ordinary.

This collection of houseboats introduces a new standard to the UK market—a rare blend of design, sustainability, and lifestyle. By bringing together modern architectural thinking and a commitment to ecological responsibility, the project creates more than just a place to stay; it offers a way of living that’s attuned to both contemporary needs and the timeless appeal of the water’s edge. For those drawn to the idea of a home that’s as adaptable and inspiring as its surroundings, these floating residences deliver on every front.

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SHRINX Easy Chair removes harmful materials while maintaining comfort and style https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/16/shrinx-easy-chair-removes-harmful-materials-while-maintaining-comfort-and-style/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=shrinx-easy-chair-removes-harmful-materials-while-maintaining-comfort-and-style Mon, 16 Jun 2025 10:07:52 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=559068

SHRINX Easy Chair removes harmful materials while maintaining comfort and style

PU foam is a petrochemical product that requires isocyanates as a propellant during manufacturing. It is widely used in upholstered furniture and is a big...
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PU foam is a petrochemical product that requires isocyanates as a propellant during manufacturing. It is widely used in upholstered furniture and is a big problem in the furniture industry. It off-gases, loses support over time, is flammable and therefore dangerous, has a short lifespan, and poses environmental hazards when downcycled or incinerated. Of course the industry cannot stop producing things like sofas and chairs so it’s better to find an alternative to this material.

The SHRINX Easy Chair marks a groundbreaking milestone in sustainable furniture design. Crafted in collaboration with +Halle® and realized using the innovative SHRINX 4903 fabric from Krall+Roth, this lounge chair eliminates traditional polyurethane (PU) foam entirely and offers a radical rethinking of comfort, aesthetics, and ecological responsibility. It’s a foam-free, sustainable approach rooted in material innovation.

Designer: Boris Berlin

SHRINX 4903 is a patented self‑supporting textile made from 68 % polyester and 32 % polyamide, available in 30 vibrant colorways. Its semi‑translucent mesh enables sharp, precise upholstery while revealing the chair’s structural integrity, reimagining comfort without foam. The material has just the right amount of tension and flexibility, allowing it to conform gently to the body while maintaining its form over time.

What you get by using this material is a lounge chair that feels soft, supports well, and looks crisp but still doesn’t use traditional cushioning. Instead of hiding the inner construction, SHRINX 4903 proudly showcases it which makes transparency into both an aesthetic and ethical statement. It’s a celebration of honest design, where form, function, and sustainability intersect seamlessly.

The comfort that you get from this chair is similar to what you’d expect from traditional foam-padded seats, so the innovative material choice doesn’t compromise on the softness or support users are accustomed to. Instead, it redefines how that comfort is delivered, using tension and intelligent design rather than bulk and padding. Its aesthetic takes cues from classic lounge archetypes, inviting, low-slung, and sculptural, yet it pares these down into a more refined, contemporary form. The slimmer profile reduces visual weight, making it ideal for both modern interiors and public spaces. Meanwhile, the upward-arching curves that wrap around the internal frame not only provide ergonomic support but also express a kind of quiet sophistication, marrying tradition with a forward-thinking approach to sustainable design.

The design and production of the SHRINX Easy Chair signals a paradigm shift when it comes to upholstery. By removing foam entirely and leaning into advanced textile technology, it addresses critical environmental challenges while maintaining a high design standard. It also goes to show that aesthetic quality and ecological responsibility can and should be intertwined.

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Climacool Teahouse in Chengdu Redefines Cool with Bamboo, Mist, and Urban Serenity https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/15/climacool-teahouse-in-chengdu-redefines-cool-with-bamboo-mist-and-urban-serenity/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=climacool-teahouse-in-chengdu-redefines-cool-with-bamboo-mist-and-urban-serenity Sun, 15 Jun 2025 22:30:54 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=554005

Climacool Teahouse in Chengdu Redefines Cool with Bamboo, Mist, and Urban Serenity

In a city where luxury storefronts and urban heat dominate the pedestrian experience, an unexpected structure quietly shifts the atmosphere, both literally and metaphorically. The...
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In a city where luxury storefronts and urban heat dominate the pedestrian experience, an unexpected structure quietly shifts the atmosphere, both literally and metaphorically. The Climacool Teahouse, a collaboration between architecture firm line+ studio, adidas, and sustainability lab ZERO, emerges as a striking yet serene installation nestled in Chengdu’s Taikoo Li. Temporary in nature but lasting in impact, the teahouse offers a new way to think about architecture’s relationship with climate, material, and culture.

Constructed entirely from bamboo and assembled in just five days, the teahouse is more than a spatial experiment; it’s an environmental gesture. Rooted in the principles of vernacular architecture and adapted through modern techniques, the project proposes a different kind of public space: one that responds to its surroundings with lightness, breathability, and emotional tactility. It’s not built to last forever, but it is built to leave a lasting impression.

Designers: line+ studio

At the heart of the installation is a circular grove of live bamboo, forming the core of the pavilion. These fresh stalks are bent radially inward and fixed between a lightweight ground anchoring system and a digitally fabricated canopy ring above. The effect is immersive: visitors find themselves stepping into a vertical forest, shaded and gently enclosed, while still surrounded by the vibrancy of the city. Hovering above, an LED ring references the movement of air and atmospheric change, subtly illuminating the space and guiding visitors’ visual focus upward.

This design, interestingly, grew from a limitation. The original concept for the pavilion was a suspended, floating structure meant to evoke lightness and air. However, city safety regulations forced a rethinking of the approach, prompting the designers to ground their idea, literally, into something vertical and planted. What resulted is arguably more powerful: a living, growing form that grounds the installation in place, while still playing with notions of suspension and airiness.

The architecture itself is composed of two concentric cylinders: an inner core of living bamboo and an outer shell made of woven bamboo strips that form vertical surfaces, seating, and a subtle interface with the surrounding plaza. The material selection is deeply intentional. Bamboo, a renewable and fast-growing resource, is a nod to both regional craftsmanship and ecological responsibility. It is also the project’s main structural and environmental agent, used not just for aesthetic unity, but for its flexibility, ease of assembly, and climatic performance.

Cooling is an integral part of the design. Integrated misting systems, dry ice, and underfloor fans work together to generate a perceptible level-5 breeze, offering thermal comfort to those within the pavilion and even to passersby in the surrounding plaza. Beneath the central canopy, mist is released downward; around the perimeter, additional nozzles cool the bench zones. Floor-embedded fans create upward air movement, enhancing the effect and mirroring the high-performance qualities of adidas’s Climacool product line, for which the installation was partially conceived.

However, the use of dry ice, while visually dramatic and effective in generating cool air, raises environmental considerations. The release of carbon dioxide may not align with broader sustainability goals, but given the project’s overall low-impact structure and short lifespan, it seems likely the team weighed these factors carefully and minimized their use. The misting and fan systems themselves rely on concealed mechanical and electrical infrastructure, cleverly integrated into the bamboo seating and structure to maintain the installation’s clean, organic aesthetic.

Furniture elements, also made entirely of untreated bamboo, reflect Chengdu’s teahouse culture, grounding the futuristic concept in local tradition. Tables and seating are crafted using traditional methods, and these components extend beyond the installation: after the teahouse’s exhibition period, modular benches will be relocated throughout Chengdu, extending the project’s reach into everyday public spaces. In this way, the pavilion’s life continues long after the bamboo walls are disassembled.

The real brilliance of the Climacool Teahouse lies in its impermanence. Designed to be assembled quickly and taken down just as efficiently, the structure exemplifies the potential of ephemeral architecture to influence how we experience the city. It isn’t a permanent fixture, but a moment of relief, reflection, and reconnection with nature in a highly commercialized setting. It challenges the notion that impactful design must be monumental or enduring; instead, it celebrates architecture as atmosphere, focusing on microclimatic comfort, sensory engagement, and community interaction.

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From Decay to Design: How Urban Renewal Plays a Vital Role in Shaping Our Future https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/14/from-decay-to-design-how-urban-renewal-plays-a-vital-role-in-shaping-our-future/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=from-decay-to-design-how-urban-renewal-plays-a-vital-role-in-shaping-our-future Sat, 14 Jun 2025 15:20:10 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=558941

From Decay to Design: How Urban Renewal Plays a Vital Role in Shaping Our Future

Urban renewal refers to the strategic revitalization of deteriorated or underutilized urban areas. It targets both high-density and low-density zones, particularly those with ageing infrastructure,...
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Urban renewal refers to the strategic revitalization of deteriorated or underutilized urban areas. It targets both high-density and low-density zones, particularly those with ageing infrastructure, inadequate utilities, or missing essential amenities. The core objective is to transform these spaces and improve overall urban living standards through a variety of physical redevelopment approaches.

Also known as urban regeneration in the UK and urban redevelopment in the US, the concept gained momentum in the late 19th century after World War II due to large-scale destruction, resulting in reconstruction. As a result, it has played an important role in influencing city landscapes, demographics, and historical evolution.

Urban renewal efforts increasingly prioritize creating pedestrian-friendly spaces that are both functional and welcoming. However, entrances to these areas often suffer from neglect, cluttered with uninspiring barriers and temporary signage that detract from the overall experience. Effective urban renewal requires thoughtful design of these transition points to ensure they invite and guide visitors smoothly into revitalized public zones.

Réal, an innovative safety bollard, offers a fresh approach to urban revamping by combining safety with aesthetic appeal. Its versatile design allows for the integration of accessories like planters, seating, and signage, creating cohesive, attractive streetscapes. By clearly defining pedestrian areas, Réal supports sustainable urban living, encouraging foot traffic, reducing pollution, and boosting community vibrancy. This blend of style and function makes Réal a key element in modern urban renewal strategies, transforming neglected spaces into engaging, livable environments that reflect a city’s commitment to thoughtful, sustainable growth.

Why is urban renewal important for a city’s growth?

Rapid population growth is causing cities to grow quickly, spreading out and leaving many buildings and land unused. MLA+ in collaboration with Felixx Landscape Architects has reimagined the complicated and fragmented industrial landscape around the G107 highway to drive urban regeneration. When cities grow into farmland, they can become hard to manage. Fixing and improving these areas shows that future city rebuilding depends on urban renewal, an important part of city planning.

Urban renewal is important in a cities growth due to the following reasons:

  • Renovating dilapidated homes and removing rundown structures helps cities preserve heritage, leverage their rich history, attract cultural tourism, and drive long-term economic growth.
  • Urban renewal clears overcrowded slums, revitalizes declining neighborhoods, and significantly reduces informal settlements, improving the overall appearance, safety, and livability of the city.
  • Economic growth steadily emerges as new development projects, such as hotel construction, commercial hubs, and residential renovations, enhance the city’s vibrancy, infrastructure, and appeal to investors over time.

However, urban renewal projects face challenges such as the fair handling of property seizure to protect owners from hardship and legal issues. Careful and thorough planning is essential to ensure redevelopment efforts produce positive and lasting outcomes. Since these projects often require significant financial investment, conducting a detailed cost-benefit analysis is crucial to guarantee that the redevelopment delivers real value and long-term sustainability for the urban environment.

The Acute House by OOF! Architecture is a striking example of design innovation on an unusually narrow, triangular site in Melbourne. Once home to a crumbling 19th-century cottage and considered unbuildable, the wedge-shaped plot was transformed into a bold, contemporary residence. At its sharpest point, the house narrows to just two meters, yet clever design makes the most of every inch. The front façade retains the charm of the original cottage, while the rear boldly showcases modern architecture.

Internally, the design is a masterclass in spatial efficiency, with custom joinery, hidden storage, and multi-functional furniture maximizing the compact footprint. Large windows and skylights fill the space with natural light, enhancing the sense of openness. Salvaged materials like timber and corrugated iron blend old with new, giving the home a textured, authentic feel. The Acute House proves that bold, efficient, and beautiful design is possible—even on the most challenging urban sites.

Key Strategies Used for Successful Urban Renewal

Urban renewal addresses urban decay by improving outdated housing, weak infrastructure, and congestion. It includes redevelopment to rebuild old structures, rehabilitation to restore usable buildings, and conservation to preserve quality through proper maintenance. These strategies are key components in the urban renewal process.

1. Innovative Redevelopment

Redevelopment replaces old, deteriorated structures with new ones through demolition and rebuilding alongside revitalizing underused areas. It requires significant investment and is essential when repairs aren’t enough. This process optimizes land use to support more residents, lowers maintenance costs, improves community facilities, increases parking, creates open spaces, and helps reduce crime, transforming neighborhoods into economically productive and vibrant communities.

2. Reuse of Land

This strategy repairs and restores old buildings for their original use, offering a cost-effective, sustainable alternative to new construction. It reduces environmental impact, creates jobs, and boosts local economies by transforming neglected sites into productive spaces. Tools like spatial planning and financial incentives support responsible growth.

3. Sustainable Conservation

Conservation targets architecturally or historically significant parts of the built environment to prevent deterioration of sound neighborhoods. It involves preserving only key buildings in their original form, rather than all features. Poor maintenance often leads to the loss of valuable older structures. Urban conservation is crucial for saving money and energy by reusing existing buildings instead of building new ones.

Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has unveiled a bold vision for Naples through the Napoli Porta Est Masterplan. At its heart are two sleek, glass-and-metal towers rising from a shared base, oriented to capture striking views of Mount Vesuvius. Their façade design optimizes natural light and ventilation while reducing heat and glare, making the interiors energy-efficient and visually engaging. A plaza and green spaces connect the base, creating a lively, accessible urban node.

The broader redevelopment covers over 30 hectares of abandoned industrial land in eastern Naples, including a defunct tobacco factory. With green roofs, 7,000 sqm of solar panels, and recycled water systems projected to cut potable water use by 60%, the master plan exemplifies sustainable urban renewal. The integration of geothermal energy and extensive landscaping furthers its eco-conscious goals, transforming a neglected area into a vibrant, future-ready district.

Urban renewal turns dilapidated buildings and zones into opportunities by blending smart design, community needs, and sustainability. By reimagining neglected spaces, it creates vibrant, functional cities ready for the future. As cities continue to grow, thoughtful renewal will be key to ensuring urban spaces remain inclusive, resilient, and thriving.

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Prefab Holiday Home In Rural Brazil Merges Eco-friendly Design With Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/11/prefab-holiday-home-in-rural-brazil-merges-eco-friendly-design-with-seamless-indoor-outdoor-living/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=prefab-holiday-home-in-rural-brazil-merges-eco-friendly-design-with-seamless-indoor-outdoor-living Wed, 11 Jun 2025 23:30:29 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=557716

Prefab Holiday Home In Rural Brazil Merges Eco-friendly Design With Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living

Rodrigo Ohtake’s Ibiúna House sits just outside São Paulo and feels like a gentle pause from the city’s pace. The home is defined by its...
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Rodrigo Ohtake’s Ibiúna House sits just outside São Paulo and feels like a gentle pause from the city’s pace. The home is defined by its modular structure, which is both practical and responsive to the needs of a growing family. Prefabricated elements, designed in collaboration with SysHaus, allow the house to emerge quickly and efficiently in the rural landscape. The system’s flexibility means each space is easily adapted for living, relaxing, or gathering, making the home a restful weekend retreat.

The exterior of the house is wrapped in sky-blue steel panels that softly reflect the changing light of the countryside. Walls of glass open the interior to its surroundings, letting the landscape become part of daily living. Ohtake’s approach is to let the house disappear into the environment. The result is a home that feels lightweight and calm, a place for the family to reconnect with nature. Curtainless bedroom windows encourage a morning ritual of waking to the outdoors, creating a sense of openness that is both simple and immersive.

Designer: Rodrigo Ohtake

Inside, the home is organized for comfort and function. The living area is open and flows into the dining and kitchen spaces, encouraging interaction among family members. Orange plays a central role in the interior palette, providing a warm contrast to the green of the surrounding vegetation. The kitchen is fitted with custom cabinetry and modern appliances, arranged for easy movement and daily use. Every corner is considered, with built-in storage that keeps the interior uncluttered and flexible.

The house’s modular design allows for both privacy and togetherness. Bedrooms are set apart to give each family member a personal space, while communal areas remain generous and filled with light. The absence of heavy partitions means that light and air move freely through the house. The use of glass and steel is balanced by the colors and textures chosen for the interior, resulting in an environment that feels both modern and inviting.

Functionality extends to the home’s ecological performance. Prefabrication reduces material waste, and the efficient envelope helps to maintain comfortable temperatures year-round. The house’s placement on the site allows for natural ventilation and plenty of daylight. With its thoughtful design, the Ibiúna House becomes a place where utility and ease come together, supporting a lifestyle that is both active and restful.

Ohtake’s Ibiúna House is a family retreat designed for the rhythm of modern life. Its modular system brings flexibility, and its careful material choices create a space that feels rooted in its place. The house does not impose itself on the landscape but becomes part of it, inviting those inside to slow down and take in the simplicity of rural living. It is a quiet answer to the question of how architecture can bring comfort, utility, and a sense of belonging all at once.

The post Prefab Holiday Home In Rural Brazil Merges Eco-friendly Design With Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Bloom 3D Printed Flowers Turn Conservation into a Glowing Meadow https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/11/bloom-3d-printed-flowers-turn-conservation-into-a-glowing-meadow/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bloom-3d-printed-flowers-turn-conservation-into-a-glowing-meadow Wed, 11 Jun 2025 22:30:01 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=558106

Bloom 3D Printed Flowers Turn Conservation into a Glowing Meadow

Most people think of 3D printing as something for gadget tinkerers or engineers, a tool for cranking out prototypes, mechanical parts, or one-off widgets in...
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Most people think of 3D printing as something for gadget tinkerers or engineers, a tool for cranking out prototypes, mechanical parts, or one-off widgets in a home workshop. It is easy to forget that this technology can also be a brush for artists, shaping not just plastic but new ways of seeing and feeling. The Bloom installation at Jersey Zoo is a perfect example of how digital fabrication can blossom into something much more meaningful.

The story behind Bloom is rooted in celebration and remembrance. Commissioned by the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, the installation marks the centenary of Gerald Durrell, a pioneering conservationist who founded Jersey Zoo. Instead of going the usual route with plaques or statues, the organizers chose to fill the grounds with a sprawling meadow of more than 5,000 3D-printed flowers. Each one is a tribute to Durrell’s legacy and a call to action for a greener world.

Designer: Stuart Semple for Durrell Wildlife Conservation

What makes Bloom truly special is its attention to detail and heart. The meadow is not a random mix of shapes and colors. Every flower is modeled after one of Durrell’s six favorites: chrysanthemums, freesias, roses, scarlet pimpernel, crocuses, and pink magnolias. These are not just decorations; they are gentle reminders of the personal and natural inspirations behind a life spent defending endangered species.

There is something hopeful about using 3D printing for a project like this. While the technology is usually tied to industry and invention, here it is used to grow an entire field of flowers, no watering or pruning required. The material choice is just as thoughtful: each flower is made from plant-based, biodegradable PLA filament, with the main component being a sugar that comes from corn. Instead of leaving behind a mess of plastic, the installation quietly nods to sustainability, proving that even temporary art can respect the planet.

But it is at night that Bloom really comes alive. The secret is in the special glow-in-the-dark pigments mixed into the plastic. During the day, the flowers soak up sunlight, and by evening, the entire meadow begins to shine with a soft, dreamlike glow. It is a transformation that feels quietly magical, as if the flowers are carrying a bit of daylight into the night. The effect is both peaceful and a little otherworldly, like a field of hope lighting up the darkness.

Bloom is more than a visual spectacle; it is a conversation between art, technology, and nature. By letting visitors purchase a flower, the installation also turns art into action, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts. It is a reminder that creativity and care for the environment can grow side by side, each making the other a little brighter. In a world that often rushes past such moments, the glowing meadow at Jersey Zoo invites everyone to pause, look closer, and remember what is worth protecting.

The post Bloom 3D Printed Flowers Turn Conservation into a Glowing Meadow first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Earth to People’s furniture collection taps nature’s own glue https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/10/earth-to-peoples-furniture-collection-taps-natures-own-glue/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=earth-to-peoples-furniture-collection-taps-natures-own-glue Tue, 10 Jun 2025 17:00:13 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=557681

Earth to People’s furniture collection taps nature’s own glue

There are furniture that simply exist as functional pieces to fulfill a role in our lives, like to hold our things or to hold our...
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There are furniture that simply exist as functional pieces to fulfill a role in our lives, like to hold our things or to hold our bodies. And then there are those that also want to add some aesthetics to our spaces. And then are those that also want to make a statement about things like consumption and sustainability. There are also those collections that can bring all of these elements together.

New York’s Earth to People has debuted its sustainable and poetic furniture line, Salvage and Sap, revolutionizing modern design with ancient, eco-conscious techniques. The workshop forgoes industrial glues entirely, opting instead for pure, hand‑harvested tree sap to bind reclaimed materials. This sap is carefully harvested, collected from tree surfaces, heated and filtered to yield a non-toxic pine resin. It’s then used with wooden dowels from cedar off‑cuts to hold large timber elements together in sturdy, natural joints.

Designer: Earth to People

Earth to People sources centuries‑old cedar struck by wind in Squamish, British Columbia. Logs are air‑dried (not kiln‑dried), and each piece includes GPS data, giving owners full transparency into the origin of their furniture. A standout is a chair carved from three blocks of cedar from a single 400‑year‑old tree. Every stage of production emphasizes handcrafted, low-impact processes. Logs are milled and shaped by hand, sap is processed manually, and even the joining techniques avoid chemicals entirely in favor of traditional methods.

The collection includes aluminum furniture—like sconces and a floor lamp—made from locally recycled scrap metal . These pieces echo ancient monoliths in their minimalist geometric forms—think soft-piped rectangular plinths with subtle slits for ambient light. One chair features a custom cushion made from cotton and hemp, stuffed with cedar shavings left over from processing. Another floor lamp uses shingles from a 300-year-old cedar, held together with hand-woven cedar bark cordage. These details not only highlight beauty in upcycling—they also ensure zero waste.

This furniture collection is basically a “manifesto” of sorts that combines age-old joinery with local materials and human-scale craftsmanship. From hand‑filtered sap glue to GPS‑tracked timber and recycled metal lighting, each piece offers aesthetic intrigue and ecological responsibility in equal measure. Plus of course, they’re easy on the eyes so you would display it proudly. They are able to slow things down and ask us to consider not just how things look or function, but where they come from and how they’re made. Earth to People doesn’t just offer furniture; it offers a conversation piece, a philosophy you can sit on, lean against, or light your room with. By weaving together beauty, utility, and responsibility, this collection proves that sustainability doesn’t have to compromise style as it can define it.

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Save $2000 a Year With This Tiny Fridge Gadget That Keeps Food Fresh for 2X Longer https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/08/save-2000-a-year-with-this-tiny-fridge-gadget-that-keeps-food-fresh-for-2x-longer/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=save-2000-a-year-with-this-tiny-fridge-gadget-that-keeps-food-fresh-for-2x-longer Mon, 09 Jun 2025 01:45:28 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=557374

Save $2000 a Year With This Tiny Fridge Gadget That Keeps Food Fresh for 2X Longer

I do get that sometimes just writing about tech that I believe improves your lives can sound somewhat patronizing or holier than thou, but with...
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I do get that sometimes just writing about tech that I believe improves your lives can sound somewhat patronizing or holier than thou, but with the Shelfy Lite, things are different. Here, I’m an equal offender, and absolutely the target audience for this particular device. As a single bachelor living alone, there’s a LOT of food in the back of my fridge way past its expiry date. How the heck does one dude consume an entire sourdough loaf on his own in 2 days because it expires fast? Or milk for that matter? Heck, I bought a fancy Pecorino Romano cheese last year, and I still haven’t opened it. Chances are, I’ll rush to use stuff I wish lasted longer (and not savor it in the process), or throw it away because maybe I just needed half a bundle of basil leaves and not the entire thing.

Let’s be frank, food waste isn’t just a personal irritation, it’s a planetary problem. Globally, we waste about a third of all food produced, with a shocking chunk of that happening right in our own kitchens (10% of all carbon emissions are because of food waste). In the US alone, households toss out something like $1,996 worth of food every year. That’s not just money down the drain; that’s methane in the atmosphere, wasted water, land, and energy. And that’s before you consider the guilt of tossing a $6 artisanal cheese that you swore you’d eat this time.

Designer: Vitesy

Click Here to Buy Now: $68 $114 (41% off) Hurry! Only 7 left of 3092 units

Enter the Shelfy Lite, the latest brainchild from Italian design-forward startup Vitesy. If you’ve ever wished your fridge came with a freshness sidekick, Shelfy Lite is here to play that role, and it does so with a kind of understated nerdy elegance that makes my inner gadget geek quietly fist-pump.

Let’s break it down: Shelfy Lite is a compact, uniquely different purifier, purpose-built for the fridge. It doesn’t want your Wi-Fi password, it won’t nag you with app notifications, and it doesn’t scan barcodes of everything in your fridge. At 5.7 inches tall, 4.3 inches wide, and 3 inches deep, it’s smaller than your average sandwich, but it packs a punch where it counts – the air your food breathes.

At its core, Shelfy Lite uses advanced purification to tackle the two arch-villains of produce longevity: ethylene gas and bacteria. Ethylene is the sneaky plant hormone fruits release as they ripen, and it’s the reason your apples turn into applesauce and your spinach slumps into slime. Shelfy Lite quietly absorbs or neutralizes ethylene, slowing the ripening process and buying you precious extra days for that “I’ll eat healthier this week” salad. It also takes on odors and airborne bacteria, so your fridge doesn’t start smelling like a chemistry experiment gone rogue.

Just place the Shelfy Lite in your fridge and hit its single button to power it on in one of 3 modes – Eco, which lets the gadget work for longer periods of time, keeping your food fresh (perfect for a half-full fridge), next is the Crisper mode, which is fine-tuned for when the Shelfy is placed in your veggie drawer, so your veggies like the capsicum or cucumber, or greens like spinach, basil, iceberg lettuce, all stay crispy and fresh for longer. Finally, a performance mode maxes out the battery, but it’s perfect for shorter bursts when you can feel your fridge is beginning to develop that ‘spoilage’ odor – perfect for a completely full fridge.

Here’s my favorite part: it’s zero-maintenance. There are no filters to swap, no cartridges to replace, and no QR codes to scan. Just stick it in your fridge and forget about it, which, to be honest, is probably the only way any of us will consistently use it. A specially formulated ceramic open-foam filter is activated using an innovative light spectrum (not UV light), while a fan helps circulate air inside the fridge through the Shelfy. It’s exactly how most purifiers work, but this one neutralizes bacteria and breaks down ethylene gas – the two culprits for food spoilage.

And maintenance is as simple as merely rinsing the ceramic foam under regular running water. A nano-coating ensures dirt doesn’t stick to the foam, so a quick rinse makes the filter as good as new. Pop it back in, charge the Shelfy Lite, and you’re set for a good 3 weeks before the Shelfy needs another battery charge (and possibly a quick filter rinse too).

The design, as you’d expect from an Italian outfit, is deceptively simple. Smooth curves, soft edges, a minimalist profile that blends into the fridge landscape. No awkward LED panels, no cryptic controls. Just a compact design that literally works with any refrigerator, regardless of its make or region, just as long as you have enough space to store the Shelfy Lite inside.

On the money-saving front, the math is compelling. Imagine shaving off even 10 percent of your annual food waste. That’s $150 rescued from the jaws of spoilage, easily covering the $74 Kickstarter price (with change for a celebratory pizza). Multiply that by the 12 million US households who routinely toss wilted greens and fuzzy berries, and Shelfy Lite starts looking less like a niche gadget and more like a quiet revolution.

The result is food that lasts longer – and that’s not just great for budget-conscious consumers, it’s great for the planet too. Food waste is a leading source of methane emissions. Moreover, food can have a major carbon footprint, with the effort gone into growing, processing, and transporting it, just to then have it expire before it’s consumed… so every apple you save from the compost heap is a tiny, delicious victory for your wallet as well as for the planet that worked hard to bring it to your plate.

Click Here to Buy Now: $68 $114 (41% off) Hurry! Only 7 left of 3092 units

The post Save $2000 a Year With This Tiny Fridge Gadget That Keeps Food Fresh for 2X Longer first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Here’s a Clever Way to Organize Your Workshop with a Print-It-Yourself Pegboard Wall https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/06/heres-a-clever-way-to-organize-your-workshop-with-a-print-it-yourself-pegboard-wall/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=heres-a-clever-way-to-organize-your-workshop-with-a-print-it-yourself-pegboard-wall Fri, 06 Jun 2025 17:00:47 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=557078

Here’s a Clever Way to Organize Your Workshop with a Print-It-Yourself Pegboard Wall

There is a kind of chaos that creeps into every workspace, no matter how many times you swear you will keep things neat. Wrenches vanish,...
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There is a kind of chaos that creeps into every workspace, no matter how many times you swear you will keep things neat. Wrenches vanish, screwdrivers seem to have minds of their own, and that one tape measure somehow ends up in a completely different room. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. The struggle to keep tools in order is a universal one, but the print-it-yourself French cleat pegboard wall brings a solution that feels almost custom-made for every frustrated tinkerer.

Instead of settling for one-size-fits-all storage, this pegboard wall lets you take control of your space in a way that is both clever and practical. The real charm lies in its digital nature: the design arrives as DXF files that you can cut using your own CNC or laser machine, giving you the power to choose the material and size that fits your unique needs. It is a refreshing break from the usual flaky pegboard panels at big box stores, and the modular approach means you get to decide exactly how your wall will look and function.

Designer: Aribabox

The French cleat system is a classic for a reason, and it pairs perfectly with the flexibility of this pegboard wall. With angled slots built into the panel, you can hang, move, and rearrange modules as often as you like, creating a dynamic storage solution that grows with your collection of tools. It is a playful way to tackle the problem of clutter, and there is something oddly satisfying about sliding a new module into place, knowing you designed the layout yourself. It turns organization into a process you can genuinely enjoy.

Beyond the obvious design perks, there are real benefits to the print-it-yourself model when it comes to cost and the environment. Since you are only buying the digital files, there is no bulky shipping, no wasted packaging, and no paying for materials you don’t need. You get to use whatever is handy or sustainable, from scrap plywood to recycled MDF, and create as many panels as your wall can handle. This not only cuts down on expenses, it also means less waste, which feels good whether you are building a workshop or just trying to do your part for the planet.

The versatility of this pegboard wall is part of what makes it so appealing. It is at home in a professional workshop, a cozy garage, or even a craft room where creativity often comes with a side of mess. It can stretch across an entire wall for tool storage or tuck into a small corner for just the essentials. The design looks clean and modern, and it brings a sense of order that is both functional and visually pleasing, making it easy to show off your workspace with a little pride.

One of the most enjoyable aspects is the variety of modules you can hang on the wall. There are slots for screwdrivers, hooks for wrenches, baskets for loose odds and ends, and holders for glue bottles or power drills. The possibilities are nearly endless, and you can always add new modules as your collection grows. Suddenly, finding the right tool becomes a little adventure, and putting everything back in its place almost feels like a reward. If you have ever dreamed of a workspace where every item has its own spot, this pegboard wall makes that dream possible, one cleat at a time.

The post Here’s a Clever Way to Organize Your Workshop with a Print-It-Yourself Pegboard Wall first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Crushing It with Style: The Yeti Can Crusher Turns Chores Into a Spectacle https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/06/06/crushing-it-with-style-the-yeti-can-crusher-turns-chores-into-a-spectacle/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=crushing-it-with-style-the-yeti-can-crusher-turns-chores-into-a-spectacle Fri, 06 Jun 2025 13:20:39 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=557012

Crushing It with Style: The Yeti Can Crusher Turns Chores Into a Spectacle

There is a certain image that pops up whenever people think about crushing soda cans. It is the kind of scene you see in movies,...
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There is a certain image that pops up whenever people think about crushing soda cans. It is the kind of scene you see in movies, where a brawny athlete flattens an empty can with a single squeeze, probably in front of a cheering crowd. The reality, however, is far less cinematic. Most of us barely manage a dent before abandoning the can, sending it tumbling toward the trash bin, often missing the target entirely and hoping no one noticed. It is hardly the stuff of legends, unless you consider fumbling for a runaway soda can an athletic event.

For a lot of people, disposing of those empty soda or beer cans feels like just another item on the never-ending list of chores. There is a certain lack of flair in picking up a sticky, half-crushed can and shoving it deep into a garbage bag. But what if this mundane task could actually be something you look forward to, just because the tool you use makes it surprisingly satisfying? Enter the Yeti Can Crusher, a gadget designed with enough style and substance that it turns a simple act into a highlight of your day. Who knew chores could be entertaining, especially with something that looks like it belongs in a high-end workshop?

Designer: Yeti

When it comes to dealing with empty cans, there is a practical reason behind putting in a little extra effort. Crushing cans before tossing them out is not just about saving space in your recycling bin, although that is certainly a welcome bonus. Flattened cans are less likely to trap air, so they take up less room in bags and bins, letting you fit more in each trip. This means fewer bags, fewer trips out to the curb, and a lot less frustration when the recycling bin threatens to overflow after a single party. It also helps the recycling process itself, as compacted cans are easier to handle, sort, and transport. Every can you squash reduces the amount of space used in collection trucks, which translates to fewer trips back and forth, lower fuel consumption, and a bit less stress on the environment.

Of course, you could use any old can crusher to get the job done, but there is something delightful about choosing a tool that is both functional and fun to look at. The Yeti Can Crusher takes its job seriously, but it refuses to look like the cheap gadgets you find in most hardware stores. This is a device that seems to have been designed by someone who thought, “Why can’t a can crusher look as good as a designer kitchen appliance?” With its clean lines, robust build, and a finish that glimmers just right under the kitchen lights, this crusher is as much a conversation piece as it is a practical tool. There is a sense of satisfaction that comes from using something that feels substantial in your hand, making each can-crushing session almost ceremonial.

Durability is another area where the Yeti Can Crusher flexes its muscles without trying too hard. The materials chosen are anything but flimsy, and the construction is solid enough to withstand years of enthusiastic use. This is not a gadget you will need to replace after one too many backyard barbecues. Instead, it seems perfectly capable of handling any can you throw at it, with a lever action that feels smooth and reliable every single time. There is even something oddly enjoyable about the sound it makes, a crisp metallic crunch that signals another can has met its fate.

There is also something to be said about the way this crusher fits into its environment. Whether it is perched mounted on a garage wall or out in the backyard, it somehow manages to look both rugged and refined. Guests may stop to admire the design before realizing just how much fun it is to use. Suddenly, crushing cans becomes a group activity, and even the most reluctant helpers find themselves lining up for a turn. It is a rare household tool that can claim to be both useful and a source of entertainment, but the Yeti Can Crusher manages to do just that.

In the end, the Yeti Can Crusher is more than just a clever gadget. It is a reminder that even the simplest chores can be transformed into moments of enjoyment, especially when the right tool is involved. There is a certain thrill in turning a dull task into a satisfying ritual, and when you add a dash of style, suddenly recycling is not just good for the planet, it is actually a little bit fun. With the right crusher in your hand, you might just find yourself looking forward to the next empty can.

The post Crushing It with Style: The Yeti Can Crusher Turns Chores Into a Spectacle first appeared on Yanko Design.

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