Beyond the Object
Author Béatrice Lorans
This month, I’ve been drawn to work that feels intentional from the inside out.
Each piece extends beyond the object, inviting connection through sensation, emotion and story.
Whether it mirrors the body’s own intelligence, sits comfortably in the hand, or builds an atmosphere you can step into, these examples show how form can build feeling and leave a lasting impression.
Read on…
Freshian x Ji Yun Kim studio
K-beauty has been on our radar for years, shaping some of the most interesting formulas, textures and packaging ideas in the space. This foundation bottle by Freshian is a perfect example.
I love the soft, architectural form and how it gently nods to the idea of an “egg-like” cosmetic. Designed for a vegan brand, it’s made to feel good in the hand, not just look good on the shelf. Thoughtful design like this signals a shift towards packaging that feels more personal and emotionally attuned.
TP 7 field recorder by Teenage Engineering
Teenage Engineering continues to set a high bar when it comes to tech objects that feel as good as they look, and the TP‑7 is no exception. Compact and refined, it invites interaction in a way few devices do.
The scroll wheel offers a tactile rhythm that’s rare in digital tools, while the aluminium finish gives it a material confidence more often seen in luxury goods. This is a recorder made for people who care about form as much as function. A creative tool, yes, but also a designed experience in its own right.
Mystery at the Groom’s by Hermès
At Pier 36 in Manhattan, Hermès created something unexpected. Mystery at the Groom’s, which ran in June 2025, was an immersive installation set inside a fictional French estate. I love how this prestigious house uses storytelling as a central design tool link back its heritage and engage with customers in an immersive way.
This experience blends technology with curiosity, atmosphere, and the feeling of being transported. It’s theatrical, but grounded. When handled like this, storytelling leaves a lasting impression and opens up new ways of seeing a brand.
Psyonic Ability Hand
The Ability Hand by Psyonic is one of the most advanced bionic prosthetics on the market, but also one of the most human. The design of the object centres the way a user thinks, feels, and interacts, translating muscle signals into real-time motion with precision and control.
It responds as quickly as 0.2 seconds, with the option to customise grips and monitor feedback via Bluetooth. The Ability Hand sets a precedent for assistive tech that responds to the user as a whole person, restoring function and confidence.
