In a recent post titled “Design Hot Take: Can Designers Stop Trying to Hide Everything Useful?” the author expressed frustration with the trend of concealing home utility items like thermostats and doorbells behind decorative objects. The post sparked a lively discussion in the comments section, with many readers agreeing that the focus on aesthetics may have gone too far.
However, some readers also pointed out that the need to hide these items wouldn’t exist if they were better designed in the first place. With this in mind, the author set out to find well-designed alternatives to common home utility items such as thermostats, doorbells, chime boxes, smoke detectors, and cord management boxes.
Sleek Thermostats
While “tempting” thermostats may be hard to come by, there are a few options that stand out for their design. Companies like Polar Bear Design and Lutron offer aesthetically pleasing thermostats with customizable features. For those looking for ready-to-buy options, Google Nest and Ecobee provide sleek and modern choices. Mysa also offers a simple and unobtrusive thermostat for baseboard heating units.
1. Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) | 2. Customize Palladiom HVAC Control | 3. Google Nest Smart Programmable Wifi Thermostat in Sand | 4. Alisse Thermostat | 5. Smart Thermostat Premium | 6. Mysa Smart Thermostat for Electric Baseboard Heaters
Stylish Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
While most smoke detectors are white for practical reasons, there are options available for those looking for a more stylish choice. Brands like X-Sense and Jalo offer smoke and carbon monoxide detectors that are slim, modern, and functional. These detectors not only serve their purpose but also add a touch of sophistication to any space.
1. XP02-AR AC Hardwired Smoke and CO Alarm | 2. Owl Wired Smoke, Carbon Monoxide, Motion, Sound, Temperature, Humidity & Air Quality Detector | 3. SimpliSafe – Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector – White | 4. SC5 Hardwire Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm | 5. Jalo Smoke Alarm Kupu 10 – Scandinavian Design | 6. Jalo Smoke Alarm Kupu 10 – Scandinavian Design – Chrome
Chic Doorbells
Modern doorbells come in a variety of styles and designs, from high-tech options with cameras and LED lights to more traditional and elegant choices. Companies like Google and Ring offer doorbells with advanced features, while brands like Rejuvenation provide classic and sophisticated designs. Whether you prefer a sleek metal finish or a more ornate look, there are plenty of options to choose from.
1. Nest Doorbell | 2. Touch Doorbell Button Round – Bronze | 3. Wired Metal Square Surface Mount Doorbell Chime Push Button with LED Button Light | 4. Patterson Round Doorbell Button | 5. Video Doorbell Wired | 6. West Slope Square Doorbell Button
Elegant Chime Boxes
Chime boxes, often overlooked in home design, can actually be a stylish addition to any space. Wooden chime box covers from Etsy offer a modern and artisanal touch, while brass options from Rejuvenation add a bold statement. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a pop of color, there are chime box designs to suit every style.
1. Modern Doorbell Cover | 2. Aged Iron Door Chime | 3. Nickel Door Chime | 4. Craftsman Door Chime | 5. Mission/Craftsman/Arts and Crafts Style Doorbell Cover | 6. Big Ring Doorbell Chime | 7. Frank Lloyd Wright-Inspired Inside Doorbell Box Cover | 8. Conroy Door Chime | 9. Brushed Nickel Door Chime
Stylish Cord Management Boxes
Cord management is often an overlooked aspect of home organization, but it can make a big difference in the overall look of a space. Wooden cord management boxes from Etsy offer a sophisticated solution, while colorful options from Finnish Design Shop add a playful touch. Whether you prefer a classic design or a more modern aesthetic, there are cord management boxes to suit every style.
1. Yichuhaoxi Cable Management Box | 2. Personalized Walnut Desk Wire Organizer | 3. Yamazaki Hidden Cable Box | 4. Cable Management Box | 5. D-Line – Large Cord Organizer Box – Black | 6. Solid Cherry Cable Organizer Box | 7. Minimalist Cable Management Box | 8. Reds Wood Design Appliance Cord Box – Medium | 9. Cable House Cable Management Box in Ultra Marine
Overall, these stylish and functional home utility tech items offer a great alternative to traditional, unattractive options. By incorporating well-designed pieces into your home, you can elevate the look and feel of your space without sacrificing functionality.
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Image Credits: Design by Emily Henderson and ARCIFORM | Photo by Kaitlin Green | From: The Farmhouse Entry Reveal (+ How To Hang A Gallery Wall On Wallpaper)