This is coming: home accessories that force us to unplug
In today's hectic world, designs are focussing on messages that aim to inspire you to live a more conscious life. These current examples show the trend.
Classic materials such as ceramics and handmade products are all the rage right now. At the latest design weeks in Paris and Mexico, three objects stood out that are both functional and symbolic of a more conscious lifestyle: an artistically painted ceramic multi-plug, a plate labelled "Wifi Off" and a mug that proclaims "Offline is the New Luxury".
Source: Pia Seidel
Digital Detox: When ceramics inspire reflection
The handmade "Offline Cup" made of glazed porcelain with a glossy finish is the result of a collaboration between the fashion brand TFS (The Frankie Shop) and the French artist and author Thomas Lélu. It is intended to convey that these days it is almost a luxury not to be online. The mug therefore not only serves as a drinking vessel, but also as a little food for thought to reflect on your constant online existence.
Just like the "Offline Cup", the "Wifi-Off-Teller" from Parisian brand l'Objet invites you to forget the digital world for a moment. Handmade with a cool, three-dimensional bow and the message "Wifi Off", it catches everyone's eye and makes them smile.
Source: Pia Seidel
This return to offline time, traditional materials and craftsmanship reflects a broad trend in the design world.
The love of analogue, even switches
There's a small but fine market for hybrid objects that combine functionality, humour and art. Last year, I saw a return to physical elements in industrial design in projects such as "Objet Libre" by Fiona Handermann and Max Kohli and in the work of Carlo Lorenzetti and Natalia Triantafylli.
Carlo Lorenzetti, a designer from Eindhoven, has created a multi-plug with his "Multi-Plug", which surprises with its handmade clay housing and organic shape. This design transforms an everyday object into a sculpture that no longer needs to be hidden away.
Similarly, American designer and artist Tyler Hays emphasises the importance of human elements and natural materials in an increasingly digital world. His multi-plug made of ceramic turns an ordinary object into a decorative highlight and statement.
Source: Pia Seidel
Symbolism and messages are on the rise
These designs show that the combination of tradition and modernity is also important in the digital age. They are a reminder that the small pleasures of everyday life, such as admiring an ornate plug, still have their place.
Header image: Pia Seidel
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Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
