Design

September 27, 2017

“Living” Chandelier Made with Algae-Filled Leaves Naturally Purifies the Air

Design engineer and biotechnologist Julian Melchiorri—who first gained attention by creating the first synthetic biological leaf—recently came up with an ingenious lighting design that is as beautiful as it is eco-friendly. His “living” chandelier Exhale, purifies air while lighting up your room and was on display at the V&A Museum during the London Design Festival. The green lighting piece is composed of 70 glass leaves filled with green algae, which absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen.

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September 23, 2017

Elegant Wind-Up Bird Toy Designed to Actually Fly When You Throw It

Toys of today are often loaded with a bevy of technological bells and whistles, but that’s not the only thing that makes them fun. Since the late 15th century, wind-up toys have entertained children and adults alike. Designer Emily Fischer of Haptic Lab is carrying on this rich tradition with her version of an ornithopter—a flying machine that makes a flapping wing motion and takes flight.

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September 11, 2017

Glistening Jewel-Covered Tights Transform Mortal Legs into Mermaid Tails

Thanks to a surge in ocean-inspired designers, there's never been a better time to take the plunge and embrace your inner mermaid. Spanning conch shell crowns, cozy, crochet tails, and, more recently, glistening tights by Lirika Matoshi, these crafty makers create accessories that can magically transform anyone into a mer-person—even if you decide to keep your legs. Inspired by life under the sea, Matoshi's exquisite stockings are beautifully bedazzled with glistening gems, sparkling flowers, and star-shaped sequins.

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September 8, 2017

Hilariously-Named Bar Soaps Ignore Typical Scents by Offering Clever Alternatives

There are many ways to make bathing more enjoyable, but the quirky bar soaps of Whiskey River Soap Co. might be the best one yet. Steering clear of conventional nomenclature like jasmine or eucalyptus, they invite you to lather up with refreshing scents like Hipsters, which has the essence of  “coffee, bacon, and craft beer.” Or if that’s not your thing, try Grammar Police that “smells like your [sic] annoying.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.