Bath Culture, HVAC, Retro Lego, Daimler Mobility Concept
In the United States, bathrooms are classified into Full Baths, which include a sink, toilet, and bathtub; 3/4 Baths, which feature only a shower; and Half Baths, which lack a shower. The presence of a bathtub significantly influences home values and is a notable aspect of American culture. While daily showers are more common, bathtubs in homes with children serve multiple purposes. They are not only for bathing but also for children to play, for washing pets, storing water during severe storms, and cleaning large items that don't fit in the kitchen sink.
In early American homes, bathtubs were large metal basins placed near a warm fireplace, offering an alternative to cold creek or river baths. Since they weren't connected to drains, these tubs could be hidden away when not in use, a feasible practice in the 1800s when people bathed just once or twice a week. This historical use likely contributed to the term "bathroom." Copper tubs, which didn't rust and complemented home interiors, were initially very popular. The wealthy, however, favored luxurious porcelain tubs, appreciated for their aesthetic appeal and sensitive touch.
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In the late 1880s, the introduction of indoor plumbing brought hot and cold running water into homes. However, the lack of proper drainage systems led to frequent flooding issues on tile floors. While alternatives like linoleum flooring and waterproofing treatments were commonly used, the modern bathtub, complete with a showerhead, didn't become prevalent until after the 1940s. |
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After World War II, as living conditions improved, bathing became more frequent, and drainage systems were further developed. Built-in bathtubs integrated with drainage systems replaced freestanding tubs with legs, eliminating water pooling issues. Additionally, bathtubs evolved from simple white porcelain to a variety of colors, including coral pink and aqua. |
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Recently, with the rise of the Tiny House movement, more people are either removing bathtubs or opting for smaller ones. However, the American love for bathtubs is unlikely to fade easily. Do you remember the immensely popular GI Joe action figure line from the 1980s? The coffee table-sized USS Flagg aircraft carrier by Hasbro was a must-have for teenagers back then. There's a buzz on Instagram that Haslab might release a USS Flagg Aircraft Carrier bathtub playset at this year's San Diego Comic-Con. |
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Of course, while vintage USS Flagg Aircraft carriers still sell for thousands of dollars, this new bathtub concept is truly intriguing. It's easy to imagine the joy of a father and child spending time together in such a playful bathtub. The American bathtub industry is embracing exciting and innovative changes, and it will be interesting to see where this trend leads. |
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Customizable Heat Pumps for Home Interiors
As Europe faced challenges from COVID-19 and the Ukraine war, the adoption of heat pump HVAC systems, which utilize various renewable energy sources to regulate temperature, has surged. These heat pumps operate using eco-friendly energy sources such as air, geothermal, waste heat, and seawater, doubling efficiency and significantly reducing CO2 emissions.
In the United States, the Biden administration's Inflation Reduction Act is driving a boom in green initiatives. Among these is a notable startup called Quilt, founded by three former Google employees. Quilt has developed an eco-friendly, ductless, and smart heat pump. This innovative system uses LiDAR sensors to selectively heat and cool rooms based on user preferences and presence, employing predictive algorithms for maximum efficiency.
The Quilt heat pump is designed to blend seamlessly with any home interior, featuring options like White Oak Veneer or standard front panels. It can be customized with paint or wallpaper, and includes built-in lighting with adjustable brightness and color.
Sales of the Quilt heat pump will begin this summer in the Bay Area, with plans to expand to other eco-conscious cities like Los Angeles. The unit, including the outdoor compressor, is priced at $6,499.
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Jenna's Insight
The era of large, bulky, and conspicuous HVAC systems that clash with home interiors is gradually fading. Homeowners now seek heating and cooling solutions that not only reduce monthly energy bills but also seamlessly integrate into their living spaces.
Brands like Quilt are leading the way for consumers who demand products that excel in both energy efficiency and design. These companies are shifting the paradigm from the purely practical focus of previous industries to a more holistic approach that values aesthetics and functionality. The fact that the founders of such startups have experience working with leading companies like Google, Apple, Nest, and Tesla plays a crucial role in this transformation.
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Functional LEGO Retro Radio
On June 1st, LEGO will launch a "new" retro radio that combines vintage aesthetics with modern functionality. This radio, assembled from 906 pieces, allows users to play music from their smartphones once the build is complete. Although it doesn't support Bluetooth or wireless connections, users can open the radio's cover to insert their smartphone or use Siri for voice commands to listen to and change music. |
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Featuring a classic mint color paired with wood tones reminiscent of old study walls, the radio includes an on/off switch and a dial that moves to change frequencies, capturing that nostalgic feel. Although it operates via Siri and doesn't require power, its modest output and bass make it a charming, understated addition to your desk. |
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AMIDA Watch: Utilizing Light Reflection
When we think of Swiss watch craftsmanship, images of tradition and heritage often come to mind rather than innovation. However, AMIDA Watch, founded in 1925 in Grenchen, Switzerland, breaks this stereotype with something truly unique. (Even their headquarters exudes a futuristic vibe.) |
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After 50 years, Amida has unveiled the limited edition Digitrend Take off Edition. Designed to allow for easy time-checking without twisting your wrist, even when riding a bike or gripping the handlebars.
Originally introduced in 1976, this watch stands out for its use of a meticulously crafted 316L stainless steel case, weighing over 100g (might make your wrist feel thin...), yet enhanced with smooth contours for an elegant profile. |
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The standout feature of this watch is its use of a LRD (Light Reflection Display) technology, projecting images vertically using a prism-shaped crystal, without relying on luminescence or electronic displays. It employs horizontal movement to display the hour and minute values on disk images, creating a unique visual effect.
The modern design is evident both inside and out, with the Digitrend watch powered by just 9 components, operating on a dual disk system. Sporting orange numerals reminiscent of the 1970s and a redesigned retro typography, it evokes the feeling of looking at a hypercar's dashboard. |
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Automotive News this week
1. Positive Attitude Toward Chinese EVs among American Youth
- Zeerkr, a Chinese automaker, surpasses NIO and XPeng in car sales and sees a successful IPO on the New York Stock Exchange, jumping 38% above its initial offering price of $21 per share.
- American youth show more familiarity with Chinese brands than the older generation, with a 25% higher likelihood of considering purchasing a Chinese vehicle, influenced significantly by social media (Autopacific).
- While over 70% of Americans across all age groups express concerns about data privacy, there's a positive response toward US-made or Mexican-made Chinese EVs (16% open to purchasing Chinese-branded EVs).
2. Record-High Average Age of US Cars
- The average age of cars in the US hits a historic high of 12.6 years, driven by a growing population opting to keep their existing vehicles rather than purchasing new ones.
- Pickup trucks lead the aging trend with an average age of 14.2 years, followed by sedans at 14 years, and utility vehicles at 9.5 years.
- Factors contributing to the longevity of pickups include their durable design and owners' tendency to maintain them adequately.
- Sedans experience segment contraction and a decline in new vehicle sales.
- With a total of 286 million vehicles in operation in the US, one-third are less than 6 years old, while two-thirds are between 6 and 14 years old.
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aimler's mobility concept, charming and future-oriented
Daimler's mobility concept, crafted in collaboration with XOIO in Berlin, epitomizes allure and futuristic vision. While not yet materialized into concrete products, it brims with fresh and innovative ideas. Envisioned around the core theme of "urban product distribution," this mobility concept, showcased predominantly through visual representations at the 2023 Paris event, unveils a fascinating glimpse into the future. Notably, it features sleek delivery vans with remarkably slender profiles, hinting at the evolution of urban logistics. |
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The person controlling the ground delivery vehicle, which appears to be compact enough to fit into a trunk, seems to be crouched down. While not directly related to mobility, the interaction between the user and the display of a store depicted as a 3D printing shop is also intriguing. |
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On the bottom left, you can see Daimler's autonomous fruit stand with a hologram display, a concept seen at CES for the past two years, so it's familiar. Next to it, people enjoying games are having a great time on a court projected with light. |
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The two aspects that seem immediately applicable to US roads are the autonomous fruit stand with a hologram display, and the use of light to protect cyclists moving where there's no dedicated bike lane, as well as pedestrians crossing the street. Though previously introduced, these ideas are likely to be directly applicable. Surprisingly, these concepts were proposed as far back as 2015. To see XOIO's latest work, click here! |
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A colleague who knows I've experienced Tesla's FSD trial for a month asked if I'd subscribe to FSD. I replied, "Definitely not!" FSD certainly has its benefits. On those days when I'm exhausted at the end of a long day and heading home, or when I'm feeling too drowsy after wrapping up work, I often think how refreshing it would be to just close my eyes for 1-2 minutes. It would definitely come in handy when returning home from a business trip, especially during airport-to-home traffic. When asked how much I'd consider paying for a monthly subscription, I said, "Maybe $20?"
It seems there are many others in the US who share my sentiment. According to Autoblog, only 2% of those who tried the FSD trial ended up subscribing. Elon Musk disputes this figure, but concerns from drivers about the system's immaturity still persist.
While the day when cars drive themselves without the need for any human intervention seems inevitable, it feels like it won't happen in the next few years. Nevertheless, I'm eagerly awaiting that day.
Have a great weekend!
P.S. I've been quite busy lately, so I haven't been able to check in every week. The next newsletter is scheduled for June 3rd with the KIA DESIGN NEWSLETTER. June and July seem to be a time for a brief parting as I take some vacation time. Wherever you are, whatever you do, always stay happy and healthy. Health is everything! Adios~
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Kia Design America / By Jenna Chwee / Jchwee@hatci.com
101 Peters Canyon Rd. Irvine, CA 92802
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