modular cabins and saunas by elmntl allow user customization and flexible installation

Italian wellness brand Effe has introduced two new sauna designs for 2023: the Aladdin sauna and the Natural modular cubicle. These additions aim to integrate spa experiences into contemporary home environments, focusing on minimalist aesthetics, modularity, and wellness benefits. The Aladdin sauna, co-designed by the late Rodolfo Dordoni and Michele Angelini, is characterized by its minimalist design and a mirrored fascia that runs along the bottom, both inside and out. This mirroring effect contributes to a sense of weightlessness, reflecting the brand's aspiration for the sauna to be a discreet and understated element within the home. The benches of the Aladdin sauna are crafted from only two pieces of wood, available in either light-striped oak or darker wenge, emphasizing simplicity and natural materials. The Aladdin sauna comes in two standard sizes, with custom-made options also available, aligning with Effe's commitment to flexible product offerings. An optional internal platform, covered in grès porcelain, further enhances the flying carpet motif alluded to by the brand. The Natural collection, designed by Marco Williams Fagioli, comprises modular spa cubicles that can function as a sauna, hammam, or infrared sauna. All units in this collection feature heat-treated aspen cladding and a toughened-glass front wall, promoting an open and connected feeling with the surroundings while eliminating any sense of confinement. This design transparency allows light to flood the interior, contributing to a more expansive feel. Each variation within the Natural collection is tailored to its specific function. The Natural sauna includes a high two-person bench and a lower movable seat with a laminated grès porcelain top. A backlit satin-finish glass panel integrated into the side wall helps to visually enlarge the space. This sauna is equipped with a three-kilowatt heater to achieve optimal temperatures. The hammam version of the Natural collection features an interior clad entirely in grès porcelain, creating a warm and textural ambiance. Steam is generated by an Effe Nuvola Smart Power unit, discreetly positioned under the bench. For the infrared sauna, the design ensures the bench is strategically placed to receive direct heat from the infrared lamps, which provide a lower-temperature heat designed to relax muscles and tendons. This form of heat therapy is known for penetrating the skin directly, offering distinct physiological benefits compared to conventional saunas. Both the Aladdin sauna and the Natural collection are products of Effe's ongoing research into home spas and wellness solutions. This commitment extends to scientific research, as exemplified by a major study commissioned by Effe from The Anti-Inflammaging Company (A-I). This study investigated effective methods of using heat therapy to address low-grade chronic inflammation, a condition linked to a significant percentage of premature deaths globally. Building on these findings, Effe developed the free My Effe app, which offers users personalized advice for reducing inflammation, further enhancing the wellness effectiveness of their products. Effe, formerly known as Effegibi, aims to transform the traditional spa concept into contemporary, Italian-designed furniture suitable for various rooms within a home, making wellness accessible and stylish. #Effe #SaunaDesign #HomeWellness #RodolfoDordoni #MicheleAngelini #MarcoWilliamsFagioli #ModularSpa #AladdinSauna #NaturalCollection

The BTM12 Integrated Cabinet System by Mediclinics is a specialized solution for public restrooms, offering a hygienic and efficient handwashing and drying experience. As part of Mediclinics' "Behind the Mirror" (BTM) series, this system integrates essential bathroom functions discreetly behind a mirrored cabinet, promoting a minimalist aesthetic while ensuring optimal functionality. The design emphasizes intuitive operation, contactless interaction, and resource efficiency. Constructed from black matte DM wood, the BTM12 features a top-hinged front door equipped with pneumatic pistons, ensuring smooth and controlled opening and closing. This design choice not only enhances durability but also contributes to the system's sleek, integrated appearance. A key feature is the single electrical connection, which simplifies installation and powers all internal components, including the backlighting and integrated functions. The cabinet is lockable, adding a layer of security for the enclosed components. The system incorporates two primary modules: the Air, hand dryer, Speedflow Plus (M17A-BTM24), and the Soap dispenser (DJ024BTM). The Speedflow Plus is a high-speed, eco-fast hand dryer designed for rapid and energy-efficient drying. The soap dispenser is a touch-free electronic unit, ensuring hygienic operation by preventing direct contact. Both modules are seamlessly hidden behind the mirror, which is shatter-safe for enhanced user safety. For intuitive use, the mirror features LED pictograms that clearly indicate the functions for soap and air, guiding users through the handwashing process. This visual guidance enhances user experience and ensures proper use of the facilities. The system also offers adjustable sensor settings for the hand dryer and customizable soap dosage, allowing for tailored functionality based on the specific needs of the public space. Beyond its core features, the BTM12 Integrated Cabinet System is designed to reduce soap consumption through precise dispensing, contributing to cost savings and environmental sustainability. The touch-free operation significantly prevents cross-contamination, a critical aspect in public health and hygiene. Mediclinics also offers an optional model, the BTM13, which replaces the hand dryer with a paper towel dispenser, providing flexibility to suit different preferences and requirements for hand drying. The system is engineered for easy installation, making it a practical choice for architects and designers planning public restroom facilities. Mediclinics, with over 50 years of experience, specializes in designing and manufacturing hand dryers and bathroom accessories for public spaces, underscoring their expertise in this product category. #IntegratedCabinetSystem #BathroomDesign #PublicRestrooms #ContactlessOperation #HygieneSolutions #Mediclinics #ModularDesign #ResourceEfficiency #ArchitecturalProducts

Tarantik & Egger have developed an innovative product called the Saunagondel, which repurposes old Swiss ski gondola frames into mobile, high-quality saunas. This project addresses the challenge of utilizing discarded infrastructure from the ski industry, offering a sustainable second life for these cabins. The core concept involves combining the existing, lightweight, and durable frames of original Swiss ski gondolas with custom-made interiors crafted from silver fir wood. This choice of material contributes to the sauna’s aesthetic appeal and provides a natural, calming environment for users, aligning with principles of green design. The use of silver fir wood also ensures a high-quality finish and enhances the internal atmosphere of the sauna. Each Saunagondel is equipped with an award-winning 4.5 kW electric heater, capable of generating an internal temperature of up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius). This powerful heating system ensures that the sauna can provide a warm and comfortable experience even in the most extreme weather conditions, making it suitable for deployment in cold, snowy landscapes. The inclusion of modern WiFi controls allows for convenient operation and temperature management, enhancing the user experience. A significant feature of the Saunagondel is its mobility and lightweight construction. This design characteristic allows for easy transportation and rapid installation in various locations, offering flexibility for users who might wish to place it in remote or unconventional settings. The panoramic views offered by the gondola's original windows provide users with an immersive experience, allowing them to enjoy their surroundings while inside the sauna. This aspect integrates the natural environment with the relaxation process. The development of the Saunagondel was an interdisciplinary effort, drawing on the expertise of various professionals. Electrical engineers were involved in integrating the heating and control systems, ensuring efficiency and safety. Carpenters were responsible for crafting the precise silver fir wood interiors, while metal workers handled the structural modifications and reinforcements of the gondola frames. The project also collaborated with VAUDE, a German outdoor sports fashion company recognized for its sustainable practices, highlighting the project’s commitment to environmentally conscious design and production. This collaboration underscores the Saunagondel’s alignment with sustainable values and green design principles. The Saunagondel is designed to be a four-person unit, offering a private yet spacious experience. Its ability to heat up quickly and maintain high temperatures, combined with its robust construction, makes it a resilient structure for diverse environments. The project by Tarantik & Egger represents an innovative approach to repurposing existing materials and combining functionality with aesthetic appeal, delivering a unique and adaptable product for relaxation and well-being. This product demonstrates how creative design and engineering can transform existing infrastructure into new, sustainable uses, contributing to both environmental preservation and consumer leisure. #Saunagondel #SkiGondolaRepurposing #SustainableDesign #GreenDesign #SilverFirWood #ExtremeWeather #PanoramicViews #MobileSauna #TarantikAndEgger

Studio Moto, founded by Thomas Hick and Mo Vanderberghe, has launched its debut furniture collection called Stack. This modular system offers a new approach to interior design by enabling continuous customization and adaptation of furniture pieces. The collection is designed to be a playful and intuitive system that evolves with the user's needs and aesthetic preferences, reflecting the changing dynamics of their lives. The genesis of the Stack collection stemmed from Studio Moto's own search for a timeless and adaptable filing cabinet for their office. Unsuccessful in finding a suitable option, Hick and Vanderberghe conceived a system prioritizing simplicity, effectiveness, stability, stackability, and expandability. The result is a highly versatile, durable, and flexible furniture system capable of numerous configurations and combinations. Stack comprises 14 recyclable aluminum components: three vertical connectors, three circles, three squares, and five rectangular shelves. These components can be assembled to create various furniture types, including cabinets, multi-level shelves with dividers, totems, and round coffee tables using the circular plates. The components are available in six distinct shades—Raw Aluminum, Granite Grey, Patina Green, Zinc Yellow, Peach Pink, and Night Blue—allowing for both monochromatic and custom multi-color palettes. The choice of aluminum for the Stack collection is based on its recyclability, strength, lightness, and timeless appeal. The material's distinctive imperfections contribute to each piece's unique visual identity, and it develops a beautiful natural patina over time. Aluminum's pliability further enhances the system's design flexibility. A key feature of Stack is its tool-free assembly. The components click together without the need for screws, mechanical fixings, or any specialized tools, making reconfigurations straightforward. This ease of assembly allows for dynamic changes; for example, two round aluminum plates can form a coffee table, while six stacked plates can create a sculptural totem for display. Studio Moto's broader portfolio includes significant projects such as The Wunderkammer Residence for the Dhondt Dhaenens Museum, mirrored chip shops in Brussels, and contributions to the redevelopment of the botanical garden in Meise and the new Westerpunt observation tower in De Panne. The team is also involved in the master plan and scenography for the Middelheim Open-Air Museum in Antwerp. The Stack collection embodies freedom in design, offering an extremely minimalist yet multifaceted and adaptable system. It integrates function with an element of adventure, designed to align with and reflect an individual's constantly evolving state of mind. #ModularFurniture #CustomizableDesign #SustainableDesign #AluminumFurniture #InteriorDesign #StudioMoto #FlexibleLiving #ProductDesign #FurnitureInnovation

The MIMA Light is a modular, prefabricated house concept that offers a quick and adaptable housing solution. Designed by MIMA architects, the units can be delivered, produced, and installed within 22 weeks from a personalized design. The fundamental design remains consistent, allowing for adaptation to diverse local conditions, including various foundation solutions such as concrete floor slabs, bearing plates, or specialized wooden underpinnings. The rapid construction process is attributed to its reliance on wooden prefabricated modules, which are transported to the building site and assembled efficiently. The aesthetic of the MIMA Light is influenced by various artists, resulting in a sculptural, cuboidal structure that appears to hover above the ground. This illusion is achieved through a mirrored plinth, which also adds a sophisticated touch. Clients can personalize the exterior with a choice of high-end metal coatings or simple color finishes. The house is constructed from individual modules, each up to 1.2 meters in length and with a fixed height and width of 3 meters. These modules can be combined to create structures ranging from 7 to 11 meters in total length, offering floor spaces between 21 and nearly 33 square meters. The modules are distinctly visible on the exterior, resembling chain links, and the house features a flat roof with interior drainage gutters, contributing to its pure geometric form. Inside, the design maintains a restrained aesthetic, with walls and floors made from multiplex plywood boards, providing a grounded and innovative feel. Large glazed panes on the end walls allow ample natural light, creating a friendly ambiance, and some side modules are also available with glass. For locations with extreme weather conditions, the glazing can be specified with increased thickness and enhanced UV protection. The design prioritizes energy efficiency, with solar panels providing electricity for the electric boiler, ensuring a sustainable hot water supply. The interior layout is flexible, centered around a compact kitchen and bathroom unit that can be positioned either centrally or at one end of the structure. This placement influences the configuration of the living and sleeping areas, maximizing utility within the small footprint. The MIMA Light concept introduces new possibilities in both the tourism sector and the holiday home market due to its affordability, with prices ranging from 20,000 to 40,000 euros, making it accessible to a broader range of buyers. #FlexibleLiving #PrefabricatedHomes #ModularArchitecture #SustainableDesign #SmallHomes #ArchitecturalDesign #HolidayHomes

Ample, an offsite manufacturing business founded in 2021 by Greg Adshead and Aaron Shields, specializes in high-quality, fully transportable, small homes and saunas. The Melbourne-based company, in partnership with Agents of Architecture, aims to provide customizable prefabricated structures that offer an alternative to larger, more expensive traditional housing in Australia. Their design philosophy is inspired by the pragmatic aesthetic of the Australian shed, featuring galvanized metal exteriors complemented by wood and steel interiors. One of Ample's notable projects is 'Stella the Stargazer' and its accompanying Sauna Bathhouse, created for Visit Victoria. This transportable tiny cabin and bathhouse system is designed to encourage younger demographics to explore regional Victoria. Stella is a luxury, fully off-grid accommodation that is relocated every few months. It incorporates unique features like a roll-out sleeping platform for stargazing, where a glazed gable end opens on gas struts, allowing the bed to extend and the glazed section to become a glass roof. The project prioritizes a 'slow living experience,' likened to an adult 'cubby house' (Australia's term for a children's playhouse). Ample's base model, 'The Little Fella,' is a transportable studio pod starting at approximately $49,000 AUD. This price includes a complete, fully insulated building with double-glazed blackbutt timber windows and doors, galvanized tin cladding, hardwood plywood interior lining, and a basic electrical package. Clients can choose to fit out the interior themselves or have Ample customize it to their specifications. The Little Fella is versatile, suitable for use as a backyard studio, bedroom, office, or compact cabin. What distinguishes Ample's prefabs is their unique design style, blending the 'humble Aussie shed' exterior with rich, textural interiors crafted by Agents of Architecture and interior designer Aimee Gleeson. The focus is on using raw, natural, and often repurposed hardwearing materials that are expected to age gracefully and develop a unique patina. Ample also emphasizes custom finishes, fixtures, and fittings, even manufacturing them in-house if suitable options are unavailable. Currently, Ample's products are available only within Australia, though the company expresses interest in future partnerships in the U.S. and Europe. The timeline for a project, from deposit to completion, typically ranges from 4-6 months for a single small pod, depending heavily on local council approvals and the project's size and complexity. Ample operates as a design and manufacturing business, offering remote assistance for site teams but not directly engaging in site work. Clients have a significant degree of customization, ranging from accepting the standard design to being heavily involved in detailing or requesting unique, one-off projects, all contingent on their budget and brief. #PrefabHomes #TinyCabins #AustralianDesign #ModularArchitecture #OffGridLiving #StellaTheStargazer #SaunaDesign #SustainableMaterials #CustomPrefab

Effe Perfect Wellness has unveiled its inaugural collection of outdoor saunas, named Cabanon, designed by Rodolfo Dordoni and Michele Angelini. The collection, first showcased at Salone del Mobile 2022 in Milan, marks a significant expansion for the brand, which traditionally focused on bringing saunas into private indoor spaces. With Cabanon, Effe aims to provide wellness products that seamlessly integrate into outdoor environments, whether it be a secluded garden or an urban terrace, emphasizing comfort, freedom, privacy, and personalization. The Cabanon collection draws inspiration from Le Corbusier’s iconic cabin and the traditional Finnish sauna, which is often situated outdoors and surrounded by nature. To cater to diverse modern living requirements, the collection offers two distinct versions: 'Garden' for lush green spaces and 'Terrace' for urban settings like verandas. This adaptability ensures that the wellness experience can be enjoyed in various outdoor contexts. The saunas are designed with a focus on sustainability, being 100% recyclable and incorporating long-lasting, energy-saving technologies, aligning with Effe's commitment to sophisticated design and advanced technological solutions. Rodolfo Dordoni, one of the designers, noted that the project aimed to evoke the sense of freedom and wellness associated with beach huts, where warmth and privacy converge. A key challenge in the development of Cabanon was creating a technology suitable for outdoor installation that adhered to safety standards, while also balancing the desire for immersion in nature with the need for a comfortable and intimate environment. The resulting design features a fully enclosed sauna unit. The exterior of the Cabanon saunas is constructed with an aluminum frame and painted corrugated aluminum cladding, designed for ease of transport and installation in various locations due to its modular nature. The internal covering is made of wood. The saunas are available in three matte color options—moss, brick, and cement—allowing them to blend harmoniously with different natural or urban surroundings, from Nordic landscapes to Mediterranean or city settings. The entrance side includes an extending deck made of WPC (wood plastic composite) boards, chosen for their pleasant texture, safety, and durability for outdoor use. This area can be customized with technical fabric curtains to enhance privacy. Inside, the saunas offer luxurious finishes, with options for heat-treated aspen throughout or a two-tone combination of solid dark wood and heat-treated aspen. Warm LED lighting is strategically placed between the bench and walls, complemented by soft backlighting on the mirror, to create a private and inviting atmosphere, particularly beneficial during colder months. Practical additions include a hand-held shower with a flexible hose and pegs for bathrobes on the deck, enhancing the overall outdoor wellness experience. The Terrace version features a single toughened glass door, while the Garden version includes both a glass door and a symmetrical glass window to allow more natural light, with benches positioned in a more secluded area for privacy. The sauna's heater, available in 4.0 kW or 8.0 kW depending on the size, is discreetly covered in a material matching the exterior cladding. In addition to the Cabanon outdoor saunas, Effe Perfect Wellness also launched 'Inside,' a 2022 steam generator. This product expands the brand’s collection of Turkish bath generators, focusing on integrating wellness into the hospitality sector. Inside is designed to be minimally intrusive, positioned just a few centimeters above the floor, simplifying installation and maintenance for architects and technicians. The user interface features intuitive controls made of durable silicone rubber with clear icons. Inside is available in two versions for volumes up to 4.5m3: 'Inside Glass,' which has a standard back-painted white glass exterior that can be customized with client branding, and 'Inside Camouflage,' where the front can be cladded with the same material as the surrounding walls for a seamless, almost invisible integration. RGB LED lighting at the bottom completes the design, offering the high-quality features of a professional Turkish bath in a compact form. #EffePerfectWellness #OutdoorSauna #Cabanon #RodolfoDordoni #MicheleAngelini #WellnessDesign #SaloneDelMobile2022 #SteamGenerator #InteriorDesign

The article explores the increasing popularity and benefits of home saunas, tracing their origins back to the Finns approximately 2,000 years ago. Initially used for bathing and warmth during harsh winters, saunas have evolved with technology and become a significant aspect of modern wellness trends. Today's saunas are characterized as high-heat, vented rooms designed for relaxation and perspiration. The integration of saunas into home design has grown, not merely for the experience of sweating, but also due to recognized health benefits. A 2018 study published by the Mayo Clinic indicated that sauna bathing elicits physiological responses similar to moderate exercise, contributing to reduced hypertension risk, decreased stress levels, and the alleviation of various chronic illnesses. The article emphasizes the accessibility of installing a home sauna, noting that it is simpler than adding a new shower as plumbing is not required, only a heater. This makes the prospect of owning a personal sauna more feasible for homeowners. Before proceeding with installation, three critical factors should be considered: location, heating, and materials. For location, a sauna does not require extensive space; a 5' x 5' walk-in closet can suffice. Interior spaces are viable options, provided ventilation can be adequately managed through walls. The installation of an exhaust fan is recommended to prevent mold, and a carbon monoxide detector is crucial for safety. Heating options include traditional stone-and-coal heaters, gas or electric units common in the U.S., and infrared heat, which is typically the most expensive but directly heats the body rather than the entire room. The recommended temperature range for health benefits is between 150°F and 195°F. Regarding materials, wood is the traditional choice for saunas because it does not retain heat like tile, ensuring comfort. Cedar is a popular option, but hemlock, pine, and eucalyptus are also suggested. For individuals with respiratory issues, incorporating saltstone into the walls can offer additional benefits. To provide practical inspiration, the article presents six stylish home sauna ideas. These ideas showcase diverse design approaches, such as creating a moody atmosphere with dark-stained, back-lit wooden paneling that transitions seamlessly with adjacent concrete materials. Another approach highlights a lighter aesthetic using blonde wood for a sleek yet laidback feel in modestly sized saunas. The option of an outdoor, freestanding sauna is also discussed for those preferring external ventilation, either by purchasing a prefabricated unit or designing a unique architectural structure that complements the garden. Furthermore, the article suggests establishing a cool-down lounge area adjacent to an outdoor sauna, akin to a pool house, for post-sauna relaxation. Integrating a sauna near a shower is advised for convenience, allowing easy rinsing after a session, with examples of saunas blending harmoniously with consistent bathroom tiling. Lastly, the article mentions the possibility of adding a steam room alongside a sauna, often separated by glass doors, to offer a broader range of wellness benefits and enhance the overall experience. #HomeSauna #WellnessTrends #HomeDesign #SaunaBenefits #InteriorDesign #HealthAndWellness #HomeImprovement #Relaxation

This comprehensive guide explores the top portable saunas available in 2025, detailing their features, benefits, and ideal use cases. The article highlights that portable saunas offer the wellness advantages of traditional saunas without requiring permanent installation, making them suitable for home use or travel. The selection criteria for these saunas emphasize a balance of performance, portability, and price, with considerations for material quality, power output for energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and user reviews. The guide begins by identifying the SereneLife Full Portable Sauna as the best overall choice due to its balance of features, and then delves into specific recommendations across various categories. Key recommendations include the SereneLife Full Portable Sauna as the best sauna kit, lauded for its full-size, enclosed design that accommodates most adults and provides full-body infrared benefits, including to the face and neck. The SaunaSpace Luminati Portable Infrared Sauna is presented as the best splurge option, noted for its aesthetic design, high-quality durable materials like North American basswood and bamboo, and low EMF exposure. For those seeking the best infrared experience, the Heat Wave Radiant Saunas Oversized Portable Cabin is recommended for its energy efficiency, spacious interior accommodating users up to 6'5", and quick setup/breakdown, making it suitable for travel. For stress relief, the Sun Home Saunas Infrared Sauna Blanket is highlighted for its ease of use, wide range of temperature and timer settings, and stylish colorways, bringing a spa experience to the home. The LifePro Far Infrared Sauna Blanket is positioned as the best for travel due to its foldable design, inclusion of disposable sauna wraps, and waterproof fabric for easy cleaning. The Clearlight Curve Sauna Dome is introduced as the best for home use, offering a luxurious reclined experience with a memory foam infrared pad and low-EMF infrared heat, suitable for individuals who find prolonged sitting difficult, despite its less portable nature. The HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket is chosen as the best small option, praised for its thin, lightweight design, quick pre-heat time, non-toxic materials, and suitability for use on various heat-resistant surfaces like a bed. Finally, the Durasage Oversized Portable Steam Sauna is recommended as the best budget option, offering an affordable entry into home saunas with dual pockets and the unique ability to add fragrances to the steam generator. The article further elaborates on different types of heat (dry, infrared, and steam) and provides guidance on design, size, and weight considerations when choosing a portable sauna. It also addresses common FAQs regarding cost, health benefits, and lifespan, reinforcing the growing body of research supporting the wellness advantages of regular sauna use. The ThermaLight technology in the SaunaSpace Luminati is specifically mentioned for its ability to provide infrared benefits with minimal EMF risk, and its organic components contribute to an appealing home integration. #PortableSaunas #HomeWellness #InfraredSaunas #SteamSaunas #FitnessGear #Relaxation #HealthBenefits #HomeImprovement #ProductReviews

This compilation from Dezeen Showroom showcases ten contemporary modular furniture designs, highlighting their adaptability and diverse applications within various interior spaces. Modular furniture, characterized by its pre-made, combinable components, offers users the flexibility to customize configurations based on their spatial constraints and functional requirements. Among the featured designs is the Chord sofa by Part & Whole, which consists of a corner piece, a flat back piece, and a backless ottoman. This allows for free configuration into bespoke seating arrangements, drawing aesthetic inspiration from 1970s furniture with its low profile and quilted finish. For workplace environments, the Longo seating system, designed by Ramos & Bassols for Actiu, integrates cushioned seats with desks, cabinets, shelves, and acoustic panels. This system aims to create adaptable layouts suitable for private offices, shared workspaces, and meeting rooms, maintaining a visually light structure. The Big modular table system from Dutch design brand De Vorm provides a customizable solution for dining, working, or meetings. It can form tables up to ten meters long and two meters wide, with options for cable compartments and various leg materials and heights. Lighting solutions also embrace modularity, as seen with the Nastro System by Studiopepe for Tooy. This collection includes cylindrical spotlights and aluminum lengths embedded with LED strips, designed to flow dynamically around architectural elements. These modules can be suspended or wall-mounted to create varied lighting arrangements. The RUT seating system, designed by Thomas Bernstrand and Stefan Borselius for Blå Station, offers a casual and inviting seating experience. It features square seating modules—including upholstered corner, backless, and backrest modules—assembled on an industrial base with solid oak planks, allowing for numerous configurations. For both indoor and outdoor use, the AMAi modular table by Dirk Wynants for Extremis presents height-adjustable tabletops supported by A-frames. Each section can seat up to eight people and can be customized with integrated LED lighting, power outlets, and sun shades. The Solaria modular sofa, created by Ludovica + Roberto Palomba for Poltrona Frau, is an outdoor seating solution with modules that can be arranged in straight or corner variations by adding back and armrests. Its padded seats feature removable, weather-resistant covers, and the back and armrests are finished with a handmade rope weave. Jean Couvreur's Fréquence shelf, presented at Maison&Objet;, is a minimalist design composed of geometric aluminum modules. This industrial-looking shelf can function as a small bookcase or a large room divider, offering versatile storage and display options. The Worm modular sofa by Clap Studio for Missana takes inspiration from the shape of millipedes, featuring an end module, a straight module, and a curved module. These components combine to form an infinite number of curved seating configurations, offering a playful design. Finally, the Shelved Modular Furniture system by British brand Shelved comprises a customizable metal framework and melamine particle board panels in multiple finishes. Users can choose from various pre-made setups, such as TV units, sideboards, display shelving, and home office arrangements, or use an online 3D configurator to create bespoke designs. This diverse selection illustrates how modular furniture can effectively address different functional and aesthetic needs across various interior settings. #ModularFurniture #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #WorkplaceDesign #SofaDesign #TableDesign #LightingDesign #ShelvingUnits #OutdoorFurniture

Konga, founded by Paulius Zemaitis and Goda Zemaite, in collaboration with Danish architect Mette Fredskild, developed a concept for minimalist hotel spaces that immerse occupants in natural landscapes, offering varying views of the outside from within. This approach aims to subtly alter daily routines, making them feel different. The initial cabin design was highly successful, leading to over a thousand orders across Europe and the U.S. Konga emphasizes sustainability by utilizing slim cross-laminated timber (CLT) and wood offcuts in their construction. The company plans to expand its presence across North America and has introduced a new model, the Konga M. The most recent project involved building a new Konga M cabin for a couple, Mark and Saly, who operate a rental property in North Norfolk, U.K. This 195-square-foot cabin serves as a serene retreat, providing a unique experience of silence. It incorporates sustainable materials such as slim CLT for ceilings, walls, and furniture, all finished with Osmo wax. Konga’s distinctive shelving system, made from solid wood offcuts, functions as a divider between the bed and the rest of the cabin. Strategically placed windows create sight lines that connect the interior with the outdoors, making the structure partially see-through. Despite its small size, the cabin can comfortably accommodate two to three people, featuring a twin bed with a pull-out mattress, a kitchen with a refrigerator and stove, a small dining area with seating and built-in storage, additional cabinets, and a fully equipped bathroom. The wood floors are crafted from offcuts supplied by Boen, a Norwegian flooring manufacturer, and upcycled materials are also used for the bedroom-lounge separating bookcase, dining bench upholstery, and bathroom stonework. The base price for a fully furnished Konga M cabin is $53,000, and the Konga L costs $63,700, with these prices applicable only in Europe. Key features that differentiate Konga prefabs include their Scandinavian-inspired design and efficient layout, which create a sense of spaciousness. The cabins blend comfort with sustainability, featuring thoughtfully placed windows that seamlessly connect the interior with the surroundings. The exterior is clad in burned wood, a treatment that ensures durability for up to 100 years and provides a unique aesthetic. The company extensively uses offcuts and leftovers for various components, including flooring, fabrics, and furniture, enhancing the cabin’s sustainability. All furniture, floors, ceilings, walls, and doors are constructed from mass timber or three-layer spruce (slim CLT), avoiding chipboard. Surfaces are treated with Osmo oil or wax, foregoing lacquering. Ceilings and walls are offered in slim CLT, dark waxed, or oak veneer panels, with no painted plaster. For bathrooms, backsplashes, tabletops, and certain interior walls, Konga uses Contec, a Danish micro cement, which offers a durable, seamless, rustic finish, avoiding tiles or painted surfaces. Doors and windows are wooden with tempered glass, minimizing plastic usage. Konga cabins are currently available across Europe, with plans for U.S. delivery in the near future. The designs meet the requirements of the park model RV category, allowing them to be built in most U.S. states. A demo project in the U.S. is scheduled for spring 2024, and if successful, full-scale delivery to the U.S. and Canada will commence. The typical lead time from contract signing to a fully installed cabin is three months. Konga manages the unloading, placement on the client's foundation, terrace assembly, and minor finishing works. Clients are responsible for permitting, site preparation, and utility hookups, though Konga provides necessary plans and information. Customization options are limited to maintain design integrity and sustainability standards but include choices for interior panel finishes (dark waxed slim CLT or light oak veneer), expanded appliance suites, upgraded insulation, temperature control systems, and functional adjustments to furniture, such as bed storage options. The cabins reflect Konga’s philosophy that quality should be paramount, even in minimalist living, evident in features like the kitchen’s two-burner stove, refrigerator, and undermount sink. An L model is also available, offering an additional sleeping area. #PrefabCabins #SustainableDesign #TinyHomes #CrossLaminatedTimber #EcoFriendlyLiving #ScandinavianDesign #ModularConstruction #RecycledMaterials #OffGridLiving

The article explores the innovative ABACO modular toilet system by CEADESIGN, a product that aims to revolutionize bathroom aesthetics and functionality. Developed by Natalino Malasorti and Roberta Bertacco, the ABACO system addresses the common design dilemma of the toilet being an unappealing fixture in a bathroom. The system is presented as a futuristic, integrated solution that combines sleek design with advanced hygienic and sustainable features. Natalino Malasorti's inspiration for the ABACO system stems from his childhood experiences observing water pipe installations at construction sites, fostering an early appreciation for the technological and innovative aspects of bathroom design. This background led him to pursue a career focused on simplifying and organizing bathroom functions. The ABACO system is designed as a single, cohesive unit that integrates various bathroom necessities, moving away from traditional, bulky fixtures. A key aspect of the ABACO system is its material choice: AISI 316L stainless steel. This specific alloy is selected for its superior hygienic properties, including a lower carbon content that makes it antibacterial and highly resistant to corrosion, even with constant exposure to water. The material also contributes to the system's 'space-ship chic' aesthetic. For those who prefer alternatives to the chrome metallic look, CEADESIGN offers various customization options, including a sleek, shiny finish created by applying mineral powders and graphite, classic marble cladding, and modern Corian cladding. The features of the ABACO toilet system incorporate several popular smart tech trends. Unlike conventional toilets, the ABACO is a seamless, gender-neutral design, eliminating a liftable seat to enhance hygiene and prevent bacterial transfer. It includes an ergonomic, heated seat for comfort. The design also draws inspiration from Japanese toilet technology, featuring an integrated bidet with both a rear jet and a double front jet for comprehensive cleaning, and accommodating gender-inclusive design principles. This 'shower toilet' concept, common in other countries since the 1980s, is now gaining traction in Western markets. Further practical features include a self-cleaning function and two flush options, one of which is a water-saving eco-flush. Integrated LED lighting strips contribute to a minimalist aesthetic and reduce the need for additional bathroom lighting fixtures. The article positions the ABACO system as a significant advancement in bathroom design, offering a blend of aesthetic appeal, technological sophistication, and environmental consciousness. It highlights how such innovations can transform functional spaces into integrated, elegant, and sustainable environments, representing a potential future standard for bathroom design.

Tyyni Studio, a Polish design studio, has developed the Tyyni Sauna Collection, a compact sauna structure that combines minimalist design with traditional craftsmanship. The name 'Tyyni' is Finnish for 'calmness,' reflecting the design's goal of fostering tranquility and a connection with nature. Architect Piotr Gniewek spearheaded the design, with construction expertly handled by the Finnish company Ehta Group Oy. This collaboration integrates modern construction methods with established sauna-building techniques. The sauna's compact and straightforward structure includes a sauna chamber equipped with a stove, a recreational area, a dressing room, and a shower room. A distinctive feature of the design is its extensive mirrored glazing, which allows the structure to seamlessly blend into its surrounding environment. This design choice makes the sauna highly adaptable to various outdoor settings, whether nestled in a snowy landscape or situated elsewhere. The addition of a terrace further expands the sauna's functionality, offering an extended space suitable for both social gatherings and private relaxation. Constructed from 90 mm thick cross-laminated timber (CLT), the Tyyni sauna is designed for durability and structural integrity. The designers specifically selected softwood, derived from coniferous trees, to enhance both the resilience of the structure and the tactile comfort experienced by users. This material choice also contributes to the sauna’s thermal insulation properties, ensuring an optimal and energy-efficient heating experience. The design prioritizes environmental harmony through efficient material use and a sustainable approach. A key aspect of the Tyyni Sauna Collection is its ease of installation. The sauna is delivered as a ready-to-use unit, which significantly reduces the complexity and time typically associated with construction. This eliminates the need for extensive on-site foundation work, making it a convenient option for various locations. The collection adheres to principles of sustainability and efficient resource utilization, striking a balance between contemporary architectural aesthetics and the rich cultural heritage of traditional Finnish sauna practices. This thoughtful combination results in a contemporary sauna design that respects both form and function, while remaining deeply rooted in tradition. #TyyniSauna #FinnishDesign #MirroredGlazing #ScandinavianRetreat #CompactSauna #CLTConstruction #SustainableDesign #MinimalistArchitecture #OutdoorLiving

This article highlights Henrybuilt's approach to home systems, particularly focusing on their customizable products designed to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of various rooms, especially the kitchen. Scott Hudson, the founder and creative director at Henrybuilt, aimed to integrate luxury and performance in home design, addressing the complex demands placed on spaces like kitchens. He recognized the need for products that are not only high-performing and functional but also organized, comfortable, and beautifully designed. Henrybuilt's philosophy centers on creating adaptable systems that cater to individual tastes while ensuring long-term durability and performance, differentiating their offerings from traditional custom millwork. The company's product line includes the Opencase Wall System, Horizontal and Vertical Bar Blocks, the Functional Partition Wall, and Interior Components, all designed with versatility in mind. The Opencase Wall System offers reconfigurable panels for various rooms such as kitchens, mudrooms, entryways, and studies, providing customizable organization. The Functional Partition Wall serves as an elegant spatial divider in the kitchen, offering both privacy and transparency, and features a sculptural side and a utilitarian 'working side' that can be attached to an island or be free-standing. The Horizontal Bar Block is designed to be integrated into islands or peninsulas, functioning as a specialized toolbox for cooking and serving, and is capable of holding accessories and providing electrical access. The Vertical Bar Block maximizes functionality in corners and small spaces, offering effortless reconfigurability and open storage for easy access. Hudson emphasizes that while custom millwork might offer a personal touch, it often lacks insight into long-term performance. Henrybuilt prioritizes both aesthetic appeal and sustained functionality, ensuring their products not only look good but also perform well over time. Each project is assigned a dedicated designer to ensure the client's system reflects their taste and integrates seamlessly with the home's architecture. The article stresses the unique ability of Henrybuilt's systems to deliver both elegance and utility simultaneously, citing how individual components are reconfigurable yet form a cohesive family of products. Ultimately, Henrybuilt's goal is to enable homeowners to live in spaces that truly reflect their lifestyle, combining form and function to create a lasting positive experience. The brand's focus on striking this balance results in highly specialized products that are also considered works of art, offering a solution that is both visually appealing and enduringly practical. #HomeDesign #KitchenDesign #CustomizableSystems #LuxuryHome #ModularFurniture #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #FunctionalDesign

British brand ON&ON has expanded its modular shelving system, originally launched in 2013, with a series of new made-to-measure components. The core shelving system offers an adjustable and modular storage solution designed for wall mounting in both domestic and commercial environments. The latest additions include desk units, cabinet units, and clothes hangers, all crafted from powder-coated aluminium. These new modules are specifically designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing system, maintaining the same snap-in-place functionality as the original range. The brand emphasizes a combination of modular design with made-to-measure parts, resulting in a streamlined architectural system that allows for long, uninterrupted shelves, desks, and cabinets. The newly introduced components are intended to broaden the system's utility and complement its established design aesthetic. Customization is a key feature, particularly for the cabinet units, which can be configured with either drawers for enclosed storage or fold-down doors for easy access. The desk units are deliberately minimalist, aiming to offer a clean, uncluttered workspace that functions much like a simple, elegant shelf. For clothing storage, the new modules include clothes hangers available in chrome, black, or white powder-coated finishes. These hangers are designed to be adaptable, offering various length and depth options to suit different storage needs. A significant aspect of ON&ON's design philosophy is its commitment to sustainability and longevity. The entire shelving system, including its new components, is conceived as a circular product and service. This approach is underpinned by a lifetime guarantee on all structural elements, indicating the brand's confidence in the durability and enduring relevance of its design. ON&ON positions its shelving system as more than just a product; it represents a long-term service and a particular way of thinking about furniture. The brand assures customers that the system components will remain consistent over time, ensuring compatibility and expandability even after several decades. This commitment to enduring design and customer service highlights ON&ON's focus on creating high-quality, adaptable, and sustainable storage solutions for a variety of spaces. #ModularDesign #ShelvingSystem #HomeStorage #FurnitureDesign #ProductLaunch #InteriorDesign #CustomizableFurniture #SustainableDesign