Sustainable Design - Yanko Design https://www.yankodesign.com Modern Industrial Design News Thu, 31 Oct 2024 18:34:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 This Modular Shed Office Merges Sustainability, Creativity, Nature, and Functionality in Vancouver https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/31/this-modular-shed-office-merges-sustainability-creativity-nature-and-functionality-in-vancouver/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-modular-shed-office-merges-sustainability-creativity-nature-and-functionality-in-vancouver Thu, 31 Oct 2024 23:30:35 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=516704

This Modular Shed Office Merges Sustainability, Creativity, Nature, and Functionality in Vancouver

Imagine an office space that’s not only environmentally conscious but also designed to inspire creativity and connect you with nature. That’s what designer Daniil Aron-Mokhov...
]]>

Imagine an office space that’s not only environmentally conscious but also designed to inspire creativity and connect you with nature. That’s what designer Daniil Aron-Mokhov has accomplished with the SCHTAUSS Modular Shed Office. Built from leftover materials from a home renovation and complemented by locally sourced supplies from Vancouver’s small businesses, SCHTAUSS is the perfect marriage of sustainable design and multifunctional beauty.

Designer: Daniil Aron-Mokhov

The process behind its creation was a feat of precision and craftsmanship. After four days of laser cutting and fabrication at a local FabLab, SCHTAUSS was installed on-site in just two days. Situated two meters from the main building, it transforms a quiet corner of the property into a space that merges indoor functionality with outdoor enjoyment.

One of the most captivating features of it is the southern facade, which boasts three operable openings. These aren’t your typical windows, each one is designed to bring in fresh air and natural light while doubling as seating patios. Step outside for a moment of relaxation, or work with the doors wide open to let the breeze flow in. These flexible access points create a seamless indoor-outdoor workspace that’s as refreshing as it is functional.

But the surprises don’t stop there. At the back of the structure, a ladder invites you to explore the rooftop patio, a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views of Vancouver’s mountains. Normally concealed by the surrounding 2.5-meter hedges, these stunning vistas transform the rooftop into a serene retreat, a perfect spot to recharge, brainstorm, or even hold a casual meeting under the open sky.

The post This Modular Shed Office Merges Sustainability, Creativity, Nature, and Functionality in Vancouver first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>
Why is Mycelium Nature’s Sustainable Hero in Building Materials? https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/29/why-is-mycelium-natures-sustainable-hero-in-building-materials/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=why-is-mycelium-natures-sustainable-hero-in-building-materials Tue, 29 Oct 2024 15:20:54 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=517099

Why is Mycelium Nature’s Sustainable Hero in Building Materials?

Mycelium, an intricate mesh of fungal filamentous cells known as hyphae, is formed by fungi across a broad spectrum of organic substrates. Mycelium, known for...
]]>

Mycelium, an intricate mesh of fungal filamentous cells known as hyphae, is formed by fungi across a broad spectrum of organic substrates. Mycelium, known for durability and eco-friendliness, is ideal for creating daily-use products, offering resilience and sustainability for designers aiming to craft durable, environmentally responsible items with minimal ecological impact.

Designer: Interesting Times Gang and OBOS

What are the advantages of using Mycelium?

Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, is gaining attention in product design for several reasons:

• Sustainable Material

Mycelium is an eco-friendly material and an alternative to plastic or foam. It’s important to note that mycelium-based products are renewable, biodegradable, and can be combined with agricultural waste products to create composite materials.

Designer: FirstBuild

Mella is an automated chamber designed for effortless cultivation of various crops at home. Utilizing smart technology, Mella regulates environmental conditions to ensure optimal growth and harvest. With features like a refillable water basin, LED lights, and WiFi compatibility, Mella simplifies the cultivation process for all types of crops, making home gardening convenient and accessible.

• Flexible

Mycelium is a flexible material that can be grown and molded into various shapes and forms. It can be used to create numerous products, ranging from furniture to packaging.

Designers: Diego Mata and NOS Design

The Grow It Yourself Helmet is a sustainable DIY helmet crafted from mushrooms that actually grows on its own! Created by NOS Design, this innovative helmet is made from mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi. It’s 100% compostable, breathable, and impact-resistant, reducing the need for plastics. Partnering with Polybion, the helmet utilizes Fungicel, a mycelium-based material that provides cushioning upon impact. This biodegradable, low-cost alternative promotes sustainability and engages users in a meaningful DIY activity, offering a practical and eco-friendly solution.

• Highly Durable

Mycelium products are strong and durable, their strength and durability depend on their conditions of growth and processing techniques.

• Thermal and Acoustic Insulation

Mycelium has excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties and finds its application in the construction and packaging industry, where insulation is essential.

Designer: Mogu

The Foresta System by Mogu is a groundbreaking collection of sustainable modular acoustic panels. Crafted from a unique blend of mycelium and upcycled textile materials, these panels offer organic yet durable noise-reduction solutions for spaces like offices and restaurants. Recognized for its eco-conscious design, Foresta integrates mycelium into its build. With a 100% circular design ethos and advanced wood processing technologies, Foresta combines elegance with innovation, setting a new standard in acoustic panel design.

Designer: Jonas Edvard

Jonas Edvard’s Myx Sail / Floor is a groundbreaking sound-absorbing panel, merging mushroom mycelium, hemp, and willow in a 1m x 1m design. Collaborating with nature, he explores mycelium’s flexibility and rigidity within a modular mold, envisioning its seamless integration into living spaces. With a focus on sound absorption, Edvard’s research highlights the viability of mycelium in reducing environmental impact while inspiring a harmonious relationship between design and nature.

• Biodegradable

Mycelium is a biodegradable material that breaks down naturally at the end of its lifecycle thus reducing its environmental pollution.

• Low Carbon Footprint

Growing mycelium demands fewer resources, it does not release a lot of greenhouse gases which makes it better for the environment.

• Material and Product Innovation

Another advantage is that mycelium can be combined with other natural materials like hemp or straw to create stronger composite materials with enhanced properties.

Designer: Emilie Burfeind

Sneature is a biodegradable shoe crafted with waste materials and 3D knitting technology. Designed by Burfeind, this sustainable sneaker offers an eco-conscious alternative to traditional footwear. Featuring a protein-based 3D knit membrane made from dog hair and a mushroom mycelium sole composed of local vegetable waste, Sneature prioritizes sustainability and customization. With water-repellent properties and a second-skin feel, Sneature combines style with environmental responsibility.

Designer: Stephanie Singer

MYC is a sustainable disposable grill made from mycelium and was created by industrial design student Stephanie Singer, MYC offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional aluminum grills. After use, MYC can be left to biodegrade and enrich the soil. With a grate made of bamboo sticks and dried corn cobs as fuel, MYC promotes sustainability without compromising convenience.

• Organic Aesthetic

Mycelium-based materials can offer a unique, organic aesthetic with a natural look, making them attractive to product designers.

Designer: Sebastian Cox with Ninela Ivanova

Sebastian Cox’s Mycelium pendant lamps redefine production by growing rather than being manufactured. Partnering with researcher Ninela Ivanova, Cox utilizes mycelium, the vegetative part of mushrooms, and scrap willow wood to create these uniquely rustic lamps. Each lamp takes 4-12 weeks to grow and is entirely compostable, showcasing the fusion of natural elements in sustainable design.

What are the disadvantages of using Mycelium?

Although mycelium is a sustainable material, it faces some challenges

• No Standardization

As mycelium is a natural product, its growth is influenced by temperature and humidity, making it difficult to achieve a standardized and consistent product. Note that mycelium growth takes longer and is not suitable for mass production or time-sensitive projects.

Designers: Myceen

‘B-Wise’ by Myceen is a sustainable lampshade crafted entirely from mycelium. This innovative design grows into its unique shape in just 5 weeks, using organic waste materials. With a rugged appearance reminiscent of leather, mycelium offers eco-friendly properties and versatile applications, even extending to architecture and space exploration.

• Moisture Sensitivity

Mycelium-based materials are susceptible to moisture, which can impact their structural strength and lifespan, potentially leading to product degradation if not stored correctly.

• Limited Applications

Mycelium-based products have limited applications and may not be suitable for items exposed to high temperatures or humidity. Furthermore, mycelium is yet to gain widespread market acceptance.

Designer: RMIT University

Fungi could become a game-changer in fireproofing homes. Researchers at a Melbourne university have developed fire-retardant mycelium sheets that offer insulation and can be applied over flammable surfaces. These bioengineered sheets, derived from fungi, are both sustainable and environmentally friendly, emitting natural water and carbon dioxide. The aim is to enhance fire safety in buildings while minimizing environmental impact.

• Costly Material

The costs associated with research and development contribute to the expense of producing mycelium-based products, making them economically unfeasible for certain applications.

Why is Mycelium becoming a popular construction material?

Mycelium-based building materials are crafted via myco-composite manufacturing which blends mycelium with agricultural waste such as straw, sawdust, or hemp. This mixture is poured into molds and left to settle for several days. During this time, the mycelium digests the agricultural waste, bonding with it to create a sturdy, cohesive material. Once fully grown and solidified, the material is removed from the molds, and ready for construction use.

Although this eco-friendly solution is still under study for its strength and durability compared to conventional options like bricks, mycelium finds applications in insulation, soundproofing, and lightweight construction blocks.

Designer: The Living

“Alive” is a groundbreaking architectural prototype by The Living. This innovative structure utilizes probiotic materials, showcasing the future of sustainable architecture. Crafted from mycelium, the vegetative part of mushrooms, it offers a glimpse into a new era of eco-friendly design. Its organic, porous construction provides a habitat for various microbes while facilitating interaction between humans and microorganisms. Made from renewable luffa fibers, this prototype embodies sustainability and adaptability. “Alive” is not just a concept for the future – it’s a practical solution for creating healthier, more environmentally friendly spaces today.

Designer: Pierre Oskam and Max Latour

Urban Reef is a 3D-printed mycelium-based structure designed to enhance biodiversity in cities. Developed by a Netherlands-based company, this innovative project aims to stimulate water circularity and support diverse ecosystems within urban environments. Utilizing porous materials like ceramics and mycelium composites, Urban Reef creates an ideal habitat for fungi and vegetation to thrive, promoting sustainable urban ecosystems without human intervention.

The post Why is Mycelium Nature’s Sustainable Hero in Building Materials? first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>
Recycled plastic becomes stone-like sheets for sustainable furniture designs https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/28/recycled-plastic-becomes-stone-like-sheets-for-sustainable-furniture-designs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=recycled-plastic-becomes-stone-like-sheets-for-sustainable-furniture-designs Mon, 28 Oct 2024 10:07:05 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=516819

Recycled plastic becomes stone-like sheets for sustainable furniture designs

We all know how bad plastic is for the planet, but no one will deny its versatility and affordability. Until we’re able to create a...
]]>

We all know how bad plastic is for the planet, but no one will deny its versatility and affordability. Until we’re able to create a truly sustainable replacement that’s just as cheap to make, all we can do is take measures to reduce their impact on the environment. That might mean using bio-plastics, or it may mean reusing and recycling plastic into some other form.

Transforming plastic into new materials isn’t exactly new, but this innovation puts a new spin on that idea. Not only does it recycle plastic without using binders or glue, it also makes the resulting material almost as strong and as beautiful as stone. The result: striking furniture made almost 100% from plastic.

Desingers: Jared Seifert, Lauren Copping (Design Declassified)

There are plenty of ways to recycle plastic, but unlike wood or paper, the process involves a lot of water and energy. They also usually involve mixing some sort of binder or glue to keep the new material together, which ironically can make the new recycled plastic product less sustainable. And there’s also that distinct “recycled” aesthetic that may sometimes be seen as an advantage but can also be considered a flaw.

Design Declassified has developed a new kind of material that’s 100% made from recycled post-consumer and post-industrial thermoplastics without adding glue, resins, or even coloring to the mixture. This means that, after many years, the sheets can be recycled again for other purposes.

The recycled plastic sheets also come with a natural appearance not unlike marble or terrazzo, giving the material a unique character that looks nothing like your stereotypical recycled plastic. Available colors at the moment include Salt and Pepper, Moonlight, Mint, and Sea Moss, blends that you’d see in actual stone designs.

The material is durable as well, though definitely not as strong as marble or ceramic. In exchange, it retains its lightweight properties that make it easy to move around. It’s easy to cut into different shapes and forms as well, making it quite suitable for furniture like furniture, tiles for floors and walls, lighting, and even art installations.

Design Declassified is definitely an interesting solution to the plastic waste problem, especially if it can be mass-produced in an equally sustainable way. Although it doesn’t exactly reduce our reliance on plastic, it could at least help lessen the need to produce virgin plastic, especially if a more beautiful but equally versatile alternative is made available more easily.

The post Recycled plastic becomes stone-like sheets for sustainable furniture designs first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>
How to Embrace Earthy Tones in Architecture and Interior Design https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/26/how-to-embrace-earthy-tones-in-architecture-and-interior-design/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-embrace-earthy-tones-in-architecture-and-interior-design Sat, 26 Oct 2024 23:30:46 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=516657

How to Embrace Earthy Tones in Architecture and Interior Design

Earth-toned colors, inspired by nature, bring a harmonious, inviting, and organic feel to any space. From the hues of warm terracottas and bricks to the...
]]>

Earth-toned colors, inspired by nature, bring a harmonious, inviting, and organic feel to any space. From the hues of warm terracottas and bricks to the cool tones of natural stone, these colors create a soothing, grounded effect. By incorporating materials and hues that reflect the natural world, you can infuse your home with the tranquil and balanced essence of earthy tones. Here’s how to weave these colors and textures into architecture and interior design.

Designer: Emerging Objects

1. Rammed Earth Construction

Rammed earth brings a natural, warm aesthetic to a home with its rich, tactile texture, creating a beautiful connection with the environment. Its earthy tones blend effortlessly with natural materials, enhancing the organic look of a space. Additionally, rammed earth regulates the internal temperature and humidity and promotes a comfortable living environment.

Casa Covida blends ancient earth-based construction techniques with modern 3D printing technology. Created by Emerging Objects in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, this prototype home uses a robotic arm to 3D-print a mix of sand, silt, clay, and water. The structure features a central space with a customizable inflatable roof, a sleeping area with beetle-kill pine furniture, and a bathing space with a metal tub surrounded by river stones. Named to reflect both the pandemic era and the concept of cohabitation, Casa Covida explores the synergy between traditional materials and contemporary tech, highlighting how ancient techniques can be revitalized with modern innovations.

2. Exposed Brick Design

The warm tones of brick, ranging from rich reds and oranges to muted grays, add a rustic vibe and tactile quality, enhancing the organic feel of both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Designer: Wallmakers

Toy Storey, designed by Wallmakers in Kerala, India, is a circular home that ingeniously repurposes around 6,200 discarded toys as structural and decorative elements. The residence features a striking facade that integrates compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEB), Mangalore tiles, and recycled toys in rich earthy tones. Its circular layout, central courtyard, and composite CSEB-Toy Jaali wall enhance ventilation and insulation, while a basement adds functional living space. Toy Storey blends tradition with modernity and challenges conventional architecture and consumption, celebrating sustainability and creativity with a nod to childhood nostalgia and environmental awareness.

Designer: Omar Gandhi Architects, Filo Timo, Aaline

Wall lamps are mounted on walls to enhance the indoor or outdoor ambiance. Innovative designs like the OG Brick embed lights directly into the wall, creating a seamless effect with earthy hues that blend naturally with brick surfaces. Available in finishes like stainless steel, black powder-coated, and electroplated brown, these lights offer a warm, magical glow. The durable metal frame and color-matching mesh ensure that the lamps integrate effortlessly into their surroundings, adding style and subtle illumination to any space.

3. Integrate Wood

The warm tones of wood, from light beiges and honey to deep browns and rich reds, create a cozy, organic ambiance, while its grain patterns add a rustic feel to interior and exterior spaces.

Designer: Atsushi Kawanishi Architects

Designed by Atsushi Kawanishi Architects, Nightingale House in Osaka is a wooden residence that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces. Covering nearly 1,400 square feet, it features six patios, three interior gardens, and two exterior gardens, with large windows and timber surfaces highlighting earthy tones. The home’s three triangular roofs complement the mountainous backdrop, while its warm, minimalistic design offers a tranquil, Japanese-inspired living experience.

Designer: Julian Topor

The KURVE furniture collection maximizes space with minimalist, curved plywood designs that combine aesthetics with functionality. The KURVE chair features a backless, curved base made from a single sheet of plywood, while the KURVE Couch includes a central console and extra storage underneath. The KURVE table, a simple wooden trapezoid, is ideal for wall placement and organizing items like shoes and keys. The KURVE Night Stand, also a trapezoid, offers additional storage with a drawer positioned below the top. Each piece cleverly integrates storage into its design without complex mechanisms.

4. Use Natural Stone

Natural stone offers a diverse color palette and unique textures, with tones ranging from soft grays and beiges to rich browns and deep blues, creating an earthy, organic appearance. Its inherent patterns and variations, including veining, enhance its natural appeal and rugged charm.

Designer: Burcu Nehir Tum

The MEMORABLE picture frame combines the timeless elegance of marble with versatile functionality in earthy hues. Its modular design features a rail system for attaching interchangeable modules such as a pen holder, vase, or note holder and allows for customized use. Marble’s unique patterns and durability provide both stability and a refined look. The frame supports two modules at a time and can be paired with additional frames for expanded display. While the rail system is limited to certain modules and its compatibility with landscape orientations is uncertain, the frame’s earthy tones and practical design add sophistication and organization to any desk.

5. Introduce Nature-Inspired Wall Colors

Earthy tones on the wall draw inspiration from soil, rock, and sky. These versatile and timeless colors provide a sophisticated look while fostering a connection to nature, creating a serene and harmonious environment.

Designer: StoneCycling and Studio Nina van Bart

CornWall is an innovative, eco-friendly wall cladding made from organic corn cobs, heated to 150°C to form strong bonds. This process uses solar energy, reducing carbon footprints. Unlike traditional materials like ceramic or HPL, CornWall absorbs more CO2 and is 100% reusable due to its demountable anchoring system. Available in colors like Dark Blue, Mustard Yellow, and Terracotta Pink, CornWall offers a sustainable alternative that transforms waste into stylish, functional interior design.

6. Beautify with Woven Materials

Woven materials like rattan introduce earthy hues of brown and beige, while their intricate weaves and textures add warmth and enhance the organic feel of a space. They bring a handcrafted aesthetic that fosters a strong connection to nature.

Designers: Ching Cheng Chang and Xu Da Zzan

Rattan, known for its flexibility, durability, and water resistance, is traditionally used in woven baskets and rustic decor. Originating from palm species in Asia, Australia, and Africa, rattan adds warmth and texture to spaces, though it’s rarely seen in modern furniture. The Mua Lau Lounge Chair challenges this norm with its blend of rattan and bent metal piping. It uses rattan for visual appeal and as a cushion replacement, offering a unique springiness and comfort. Named after a Taiwanese treat, the chair combines a crisp outer shell with a plush interior, delivering both style and a surprisingly comfortable seating experience.

7. Add a Green Thumb

The varying shades of green from plants enrich the overall aesthetic, offering a fresh and lively experience that complements earthy tones. Additionally, colorful flowers provide vibrant pops of color, enhancing the space with natural beauty.

Designer: Camila Saulino and Alibek Atahanov

The ToThem planter is a modular vase system designed for small spaces, featuring a playful and integrated design with distinct, earthy-colored shapes. It organizes and nurtures multiple plants efficiently with a manual irrigation system and a water reuse feature for optimal watering and drainage. Ideal for herbs, succulents, and flowers, ToThem blends functionality with aesthetic appeal, transforming any compact space with its warm, earthy tones.

These tips will help you use earthy tones to evoke warmth, create a comfortable space and establish a connection with the natural world. Studies indicate that such hues are ideal for homes and workspaces, as they minimize stress and enhance focus and concentration.

The post How to Embrace Earthy Tones in Architecture and Interior Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>
3D Printed lamps made from cornstarch plastic exude cute candy-like vibes https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/26/3d-printed-lamps-made-from-cornstarch-plastic-exude-cute-candy-like-vibes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=3d-printed-lamps-made-from-cornstarch-plastic-exude-cute-candy-like-vibes Sat, 26 Oct 2024 20:45:09 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=516572

3D Printed lamps made from cornstarch plastic exude cute candy-like vibes

3D printing has truly revolutionized the design and production industry, giving anyone the power to create almost any form they can think of. That revolution,...
]]>

3D printing has truly revolutionized the design and production industry, giving anyone the power to create almost any form they can think of. That revolution, however, came at a price to the environment, increasing the use of plastic material even further. Thankfully, there has been some significant pushback and changes in this young industry, as different kinds of material become printer-compatible, including food, metal, or even wood. There are even attempts at using alternative source materials for plastic, like this playful 3D-printed lamp that uses a base that you might have never thought of: corn starch.

Designers: Alexandre Touguet, Lise Rissel

Of the many types of materials used for 3D printing, PLY or polylactic acid plastic is one of the most popular. Unlike most plastics that are made from petroleum, this thermoplastic uses organic material, in this case, corn starch. This gives PLA a more sustainable character, although sometimes minimally so. It is biodegradable, but only under specific conditions that aren’t always easy to meet naturally.

It’s still a step in the right direction, nonetheless, especially since it opens the doors to more interesting designs when used in 3D printing. ALT Light is one such example, using 3D printing to bring not only light but also a joyful atmosphere to any space. Although its design might be possible to execute using traditional manufacturing processes and harmful plastic, the product demonstrates the economic and environmental benefits of a more sustainable approach to design and production centered around 3D printing.

ALT Light starts from the bottom with a normal rectangular block, if you could call a block with vertical ridges “normal” in the first place. As you lift your eyes, higher, you are the block seems to flare open, creating the semblance of a traditional conical lampshade. It stops halfway through this transformation, though, creating a sense of instability and dynamism simply through forms, as if the lampshade is trying to break free from its confines.

The lamp can come in different combinations of colors for the base and the lampshade. The transparent top gives it a jelly-like appearance, while the translucent version is like hard candy. The ribbed surface does more than just make the forms look interesting, they also create an interplay of light and shadow that mesmerizes the viewers. In addition to their unique designs, these lamps are all made in order to cut down on material waste, and each creation has minute imperfections that give each ALT Light lamp its own unique character.

The post 3D Printed lamps made from cornstarch plastic exude cute candy-like vibes first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>
This School In India With An Undulating Green Roof & Sunken Courtyard Is A Relief From Boxy Classrooms https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/25/this-school-in-india-with-an-undulating-green-roof-sunken-courtyard-is-a-relief-from-boxy-classrooms/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-school-in-india-with-an-undulating-green-roof-sunken-courtyard-is-a-relief-from-boxy-classrooms Fri, 25 Oct 2024 23:30:22 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=516478

This School In India With An Undulating Green Roof & Sunken Courtyard Is A Relief From Boxy Classrooms

Tucked away in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India is ‘Cocoon’ – the pre-primary extension of the Bloomingdale International School. This 4000 sqft extension is designed by...
]]>

Tucked away in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India is ‘Cocoon’ – the pre-primary extension of the Bloomingdale International School. This 4000 sqft extension is designed by andblack design studio, and it truly stands apart from the main school building owing to its unique form, and unconventional structure. It features a sunken courtyard that mimics the area’s natural landscape. It flows towards the structure like a hill and serves as a versatile space – ranging from a playground to an amphitheater or classroom. This unique project merges the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, forming an interesting and engaging learning environment, that is a relief from the boxy classrooms.

Designer: andblack design studio

The design studio focused on building free-flowing and interconnected spaces that allow students to move about and interact with one another, and the natural environment. Full-height glass panels and skylights make the extension a fluid and light-filled space, allowing the interiors to merge with the surrounding landscape. Besides the sunken courtyard, the project also features an interesting undulating roof. The roof is inspired by natural forms like waves or hills, and it seems to move like them too. It allows the building to be at one with the landscape, creating the impression that it serves as “a form of the landscape in itself”. The roof is covered with turf, and it is supported by a fluid structure that doesn’t include any partitions.

The studio didn’t employ any bright and vivid colors, instead, the form of the structure is the star attraction. The inclusion of turf enhances the building’s connection with the landscape, forming an endearing environment for the children, where they are freely allowed to play and explore. The material palette is simple and minimal, accentuated by the use of prefabricated elements and exposed structural components.

Since prefabricated elements were used to construct the building, the assembly was a simple and cost-effective process. The core of the roof was assembled onsite using prefab metal sections, and concise construction techniques. Built-up beams were assembled at different heights to achieve the building’s curved form. The ceiling is exposed from within, creating a lovely contrast against the green roof. Natural light streams in through the skylight, creating a visual effect that is soothing and almost relaxing. The Cocoon is an excellent effort to build innovative educational buildings, wherein schools are redefined to create seamless and playful spaces that support creativity, learning, and exploration.

The post This School In India With An Undulating Green Roof & Sunken Courtyard Is A Relief From Boxy Classrooms first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>
Sip Sustainably With This Eco-Friendly Paper Pulp Briefcase That Keeps Your Drink Hot Or Cold! https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/25/sip-sustainably-with-this-eco-friendly-paper-pulp-briefcase-that-keeps-your-drink-hot-or-cold/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sip-sustainably-with-this-eco-friendly-paper-pulp-briefcase-that-keeps-your-drink-hot-or-cold Fri, 25 Oct 2024 22:30:15 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=516397

Sip Sustainably With This Eco-Friendly Paper Pulp Briefcase That Keeps Your Drink Hot Or Cold!

For coffee lovers who savor a steaming hot cup of joe, there’s often a dilemma when it comes to ordering beverages to go. The drinks...
]]>

For coffee lovers who savor a steaming hot cup of joe, there’s often a dilemma when it comes to ordering beverages to go. The drinks tend to cool down by the time they arrive, dampening the experience. Fortunately, Nos Design Consultancy has developed a groundbreaking solution with its innovative compostable paper pulp briefcase, a sustainable and practical way to transport hot and cold drinks, keeping them secure and temperature-stable.

Designer: NOS Design consultancy

Made from paper pulp, a material with eco-friendly potential due to its recyclability and abundance, the briefcase addresses the growing issue of packaging waste. With the paper industry producing large amounts of byproducts, it could be feasible that this packaging could be created from repurposed paper waste, making it an ideal fit for both sustainability and practical use, however, it’s a great starting point.

A key feature of the Nos briefcase is its stackable design, which optimizes transportation efficiency. By taking up less space, more items can be transported at once, cutting down on fuel usage and reducing the environmental impact of deliveries. The clamshell structure not only saves space in delivery bags but also ensures drinks are snugly secured to prevent spills, a significant improvement over traditional cup carriers.

The packaging is designed to accommodate the three standard to-go sizes familiar to most customers, Tall, Grande, and Venti (as per the Starbucks’ language), with grooves that allow lids to slide in and stay in place. This flexibility makes it adaptable to most orders, eliminating concerns over mismatched cup sizes. The interior design hugs each drink, keeping it stable and reducing the risk of spillage during transit.

Beyond its stackability and spill-proof features, the briefcase boasts an additional advantage of reusability. This significantly reduces the demand for single-use containers, slashing costs and curbing the environmental toll of short-lived packaging. When its lifespan comes to an end, the briefcase can either be composted or recycled, completing a full circle of eco-conscious use.

Nos Design has clearly recognized the exponential growth in food and beverage deliveries in recent years, along with the accompanying surge in packaging waste. By conducting internal research and exploring sustainable options, they’ve created a packaging solution that’s not only easy to manufacture but also adaptable for global delivery companies. The design stacks perfectly, making it simple for baristas and couriers alike to load up drinks, seal the briefcase, and ship them off with minimal hassle.

With ergonomic handles and spaces for order details and quality seals, the paper pulp briefcase offers a seamless user experience. It’s versatile enough to be tailored to different brands through customizable color options, creating a unique, eco-friendly delivery system for businesses aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.

An added benefit is the material’s natural insulating properties, which help retain the temperature of beverages and food for longer. Whether it’s a piping hot latte or an ice-cold smoothie, the briefcase ensures that customers receive their orders as fresh as possible.

In a world where environmental consciousness is more important than ever, the Nos paper pulp briefcase provides a timely and effective solution. This compact, lightweight packaging represents a leap forward in how we think about delivery, offering a cost-effective, sustainable, and user-friendly option for couriers and businesses alike.

By incorporating eco-friendly materials and innovative design, Nos has not only created a functional product but also positioned itself as a leader in the movement toward more sustainable packaging solutions. For companies looking to attract environmentally conscious customers, this briefcase offers a practical, modern, and responsible way to do so.

The post Sip Sustainably With This Eco-Friendly Paper Pulp Briefcase That Keeps Your Drink Hot Or Cold! first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>
DIY foldable desk organizer is made from recycled Campus notebook paper https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/25/diy-foldable-desk-organizer-is-made-from-recycled-campus-notebook-paper/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=diy-foldable-desk-organizer-is-made-from-recycled-campus-notebook-paper Fri, 25 Oct 2024 13:20:16 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=516524

DIY foldable desk organizer is made from recycled Campus notebook paper

As a self-confessed hoarder and maximalist, my desk is anything but neat. I collect a lot of stationery and supplies (sometimes more than I need)...
]]>

As a self-confessed hoarder and maximalist, my desk is anything but neat. I collect a lot of stationery and supplies (sometimes more than I need) and so I have a lot of things lying around. There are of course some desk organizers there but the small items can sometimes be just left scattered all over. This new DIY stationery items can help with that problem.

Designers: Erlend Storsul Opdahl/Milla Eveliina Niskakoski for Kokuyo

RAE is a desktop organizer that is made from recycled paper from scraps of Campus notebooks from Kokuyo’s manufacturing factories. Since the strength and abrasion resistance is affected if you fully use the recycled fibers as virgin materials, they decided to make that just 50% of the recycled paper.

What makes this even more interesting is that the user will be the one to “assemble” the organizer by folding the paper, origami-style. There are two sizes of the paper: the S size (W155 x D70 x H30mm) which is a smaller, squarish kind of organizer and the L size (W250 x D70 x H30mm), a more elongated version. You can place various stationery stuff on it, including pens, paper clips, washi tapes, and other small items you may have lying around.

The package, which contains two pieces, comes with an assembly practice sheet but there’s also a video on YouTube if you need more visual instructions. It comes in beige and khaki colors, keeping with the minimalist feel. It would be cute to have some of these paper organizers on my table, if I can actually follow the instructions.

The post DIY foldable desk organizer is made from recycled Campus notebook paper first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>
Building tiles made from oyster shells, fish bones can be used for coastal structures https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/23/building-tiles-made-from-oyster-shells-fish-bones-can-be-used-for-coastal-structures/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=building-tiles-made-from-oyster-shells-fish-bones-can-be-used-for-coastal-structures Wed, 23 Oct 2024 14:20:32 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=516141

Building tiles made from oyster shells, fish bones can be used for coastal structures

The world has a lot of waste that is discarded in landfills or worse, in natural environments that cause damage to the ecosystem. Fortunately, there...
]]>

The world has a lot of waste that is discarded in landfills or worse, in natural environments that cause damage to the ecosystem. Fortunately, there are a lot of people who are exploring how to turn these seemingly useless trash into materials for products so that they can be recycled. One of the recent winners of the Red Dot Award turned her focus on oyster shells and fish bones.

Designer: Yingfei Zhuo

EcoShell is a sustainable building material that is made from abundant marine waste and is also visually pleasing. The durable exterior tiles are made from powdered oyster shells with binders extracted from fish bones serving as the adhesives, which makes it biodegradable too. The blend of these two materials make sure that the tiles are durable and can last for a long time.

Since oyster shells are salt corrosion resistant, this material can be used in coastal areas since they can last longer compared to other building materials. The tiles look like concrete but are actually lighter than that. It also has a user-friendly hanging system so that you can easily install it without using things like nails. The texture and color can also be customized to match the structure where it will be used.

This is an interesting way to use these usually discarded materials by the seafood industry. Millions of tons of the shells in particular are thrown away which actually pose risks to the environment especially if they are untreated in landfills or oceans. The fact that you can use them in buildings near oceans makes it part of the sustainable cycle.

The post Building tiles made from oyster shells, fish bones can be used for coastal structures first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>
Leftover date seeds become 3D printer filaments to enable sustainable creations https://www.yankodesign.com/2024/10/23/leftover-date-seeds-become-3d-printer-filaments-to-enable-sustainable-creations/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=leftover-date-seeds-become-3d-printer-filaments-to-enable-sustainable-creations Wed, 23 Oct 2024 13:20:41 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=516076

Leftover date seeds become 3D printer filaments to enable sustainable creations

3D printers revolutionized the manufacturing and design industries, enabling almost anyone to bring their ideas to life and iterate over designs quickly. Unfortunately, this flood...
]]>

3D printers revolutionized the manufacturing and design industries, enabling almost anyone to bring their ideas to life and iterate over designs quickly. Unfortunately, this flood of creativity also resulted in a surge in the use of plastic, specifically the thermoplastics used as filaments for fused deposit modeling or FDM 3D printers. Even the more sustainable PLA type of filament is only biodegradable under very specific conditions, so there is a dire need for more eco-friendly but accessible alternatives. This particular idea tries to harness and reuse the equally growing volume of food waste that we throw away, particularly fruit seeds that really serve no other purpose unless they’re planted again.

Designer: Nawa Tek

Dates are a very popular fruit, especially in Middle Eastern countries like Oman that produce and process tonnes of the fruit yearly. But like many fruits, only the flesh of dates is consumed, and the seeds or pits are simply discarded. These are biodegradable, of course, but they only decompose after a certain period of time, resulting in tonnes of garbage taking up space and potentially polluting waters as well. You can also plant some of the seeds but not all can be used this way.

Playing on the word for date pits and “repeat,” RePit is an emerging technology that puts these previously unusable food waste to better use. Rather than simply reusing the pits as they are, which could bring other complications like longevity and durability, the seeds instead becoming the foundations for a completely new material, one that can be woven into 3D printed products. In other words, what would have become garbage is ultimately transformed into art object, machine parts, and more.

In a nutshell, crushed date pits are mixed with limestone and clay to create a water-resistant composite material that is not unlike traditional Iranian “sarooj” that’s used for building houses. The composite is then transformed into filaments compatible with FDM 3D printers to create any shape imaginable, at least in theory. For a demonstration, decorative tiles were 3D printed and then fired and glazed to give them a ceramic-like appearance.

RePit is still a work in progress and it’s one of the growing number of sustainable 3D printing filaments being researched and developed today. The 3D printing industry has already expanded to support materials like metal, wood, and even chocolate, so it’s only proper that a more environment-friendly and long-lasting option is also developed, preferably one that embraces a circular economy that also reduces the waste we heap on landfills.

The post Leftover date seeds become 3D printer filaments to enable sustainable creations first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]>