As we close out 2024, the Dezeen editorial team has curated a collection of their favorite design projects from the year, showcasing innovative solutions that blend creativity with functionality.
Athena by Olivia Humphreys
Chosen by: Lizzie Crook, architecture editor
A groundbreaking scalp-cooling device designed to prevent hair loss in cancer patients. This portable and affordable alternative to traditional cold caps provides a sense of control during chemotherapy treatment, helping patients maintain their identity through a challenging time.
Photo courtesy of the James Dyson Foundation
Find out more about Athena ›
Carton Ceramics by Jacques Monneraud
Chosen by: Cajsa Carlson, deputy editor
A joyful collection of ceramics that appear deceptively like cardboard, showcasing the artist's remarkable realism through a combination of textures and colors.
Photo courtesy of Jacques Monneraud
Find out more about Carton ›
Design Mixtape by Hall Haus
Chosen by: Ben Dreith, US editor
An exhibition that remixed designs with local Mexican influences during Design Week Mexico, featuring collaborative pieces that reflect cultural integration.
Photo by Alejandro Ramirez Orozco
Find out more about Design Mixtape ›
EP-1320 by Teenage Engineering
Chosen by: Nat Barker, features editor
This medieval-inspired beat machine allows users to create tunes with playful samples, proving that tech can be both imaginative and entertaining.
Photo courtesy of Teenage Engineering
Find out more about the EP-1320 ›
OBJ-08 Mirrors by Manu Bañó
Chosen by: Starr Charles, editorial assistant
Sculptural mirrors made from tarnished copper, showcasing the material's versatility with a unique design that adds character to any space.
Photo by Alejandro Ramírez Orozco
Find out more about OBJ-08 ›
Paris 2024 Olympic Cauldron by Mathieu Lehanneur
Chosen by: Tom Ravenscroft, editor
A striking kinetic cauldron that floated above the Paris skyline, marking the opening ceremony of the Olympics with a nod to France's history of hot-air ballooning.
Photo courtesy of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games
Find out more about the Paris 2024 Olympic Cauldron ›
Protest Street Seats by Pneuhaus
Chosen by: Ellen Eberhardt, US reporter
Playful inflatable benches transformed into self-defense objects for protesters, demonstrating how design can respond to current events.
Photo courtesy of Pneuhaus
Find out more about this project ›
Reef Rocket by Mary Lempres
Chosen by: Amy Peacock, architecture reporter
Innovative reef restoration using bio-cement made from eco-friendly materials, aiming to enhance marine biodiversity.
Photo courtesy of Mary Lempres
Find out more about Reef Rocket ›
Tear-gas Canister Candle Holders by Majdulin Nasrallah
Chosen by: Jane Englefield, design and interiors reporter
A poignant transformation of tear gas canisters into candle holders, symbolizing resilience and resistance.
Photo courtesy of Majdulin Nasrallah
Find out more about this project ›
Under Pressure Solutions by Christophe Guberan, Anthony Guex and Camille Blin
Chosen by: Jennifer Hahn, design and environment editor
A sustainable chair that grows when soaked in water, showcasing how eco-friendly design can be both fun and functional.
Photo by Jasmine Deporta
Find out more about Under Pressure Solutions ›
Yoghurt Window Coating by Tom Greenhill
Chosen by: Christina Yao, China editor
An innovative heatwave solution using a yoghurt-based coating, proving that simple designs can address significant issues affordably.
Photo courtesy of Tom Greenhill
Find out more about this project ›
- #dezeen
- #designtrends
- #innovation
- #sustainability
- #creativesolutions
Comments · 0