8 Design-Forward Brands Going Toe-to-Toe with Umbra

Published on: November 6, 2024
Hero Image of product hamper
Hero Image of product sink-caddy
Hero Image of product dumbo-bookend-alpine
Hero Image of product web-cable-management-box
Hero Image of product the-shower-liner-system
Hero Image of product cody
Hero Image of product small-reversible-vase
Hero Image of product flip-vase-large-pink-and-yellow-glass-vase-1
1 / 0
For years, Umbra has dominated the affordable home organization scene with their mass-market approach to design. While their products get the job done, we've noticed a wave of innovative brands creating alternatives that bring fresh perspectives to everyday objects. These companies are experimenting with novel materials, emphasizing sustainability, and proving that functional doesn't have to mean forgettable.

: Where Science Meets Style in the Battle Against Bathroom Funk

Remember the last time you picked up a slimy soap dish? Dorai's tackling this age-old bathroom nuisance with some serious science. Their Sink Caddy harnesses diatomaceous earth (basically fossilized algae) to actively repel moisture and inhibit bacterial growth. It's the kind of solution that makes us wonder why no one thought of it sooner.
The brand emerged from a successful Kickstarter campaign, where founders Jason and Kelsey pitched their vision of moisture-free living. We're intrigued by their Diomat material, which transforms bathroom accessories from basic utility items into sophisticated tools for combating everyday dampness. Their approach to sustainability extends beyond just material choice - even their packaging reflects a commitment to reducing environmental impact.

Why we like Dorai

  • 1

    Innovative Material Science

    Uses diatomaceous earth for natural moisture-wicking

  • 2

    Sustainable Vision

    Focuses on eco-friendly materials and packaging

  • 3

    Problem-Solving Design

    Tackles common bathroom issues with sophisticated solutions

Mandy

Mandy

04/26/24

I have one in a bathroom and one in the kitchen. Love them for keeping things dry around hand soap/dish soap/face wash. They also fit well with my decor. Highly recommend!

: The Shower Curtain Revolutionaries Making Plastic Waste History

Here's a sobering thought: discarded shower curtains could blanket Chicago each year. Outlines looked at this environmental nightmare and created something brilliant - their Shower Liner System splits into two parts. The top section (dubbed "The Keep") is built to last, while the bottom portion ("The Replen") can be replaced and recycled when needed.
We're impressed by how they've turned the humble shower curtain into a closed-loop sustainability story. The magnetic connection between sections is clever engineering, and their silicone-coated steel anchors solve the eternal struggle with billowing curtains. It's fascinating to see a company transform such a mundane object into something that actually deserves shelf space in design magazines.

Why we like Outlines

  • 1

    Innovative Split Design

    Two-part system reduces waste and extends product life

  • 2

    Smart Engineering

    Magnetic connections and silicone-coated anchors solve common issues

  • 3

    Sustainability Focus

    Closed-loop system for minimal environmental impact

Mandy

Mandy

04/26/24

I've used this for a while and have replaced the bottom part three times. It's great that there's a sustainable option for a shower liner and I like the aesthetics as well. I use it without the weights at the bottom since they tend to trap gunk.

G

Gabrielle Auerbach

04/24/24

I have used this in 2 different apartments

: Cornwall's Craft Warriors Creating Change Through Commerce

From their seaside studio in Cornwall, Block is proving that beautiful objects can be vehicles for social change. Their Small Reversible Vase showcases their dedication to versatility - it's essentially two vases in one. The female-founded brand has spent over 15 years building relationships with suppliers who share their values.
The studio doubles as an educational space, offering opportunities to disadvantaged students and women re-entering the workforce. Their B Corp certification tells a story of impressive achievements in governance, workers' rights, and environmental stewardship. We appreciate how they've woven social responsibility into every aspect of their operation.

Why we like Block

  • 1

    Social Impact

    Educational opportunities and workforce development programs

  • 2

    Versatile Design

    Multi-functional products that maximize value

  • 3

    Certified B Corp

    Verified commitment to social and environmental responsibility

Layla Martinez

Layla Martinez

07/31/24

To each their own, but I personally like having my plants surrounding the blue center. I like the fuller look.

: Storage Solutions That Spark Joy (Without the Folding)

Open Spaces treats organization less like a chore and more like an art form. Their Laundry Hamper comes with thoughtful touches like a removable bag and shoulder strap - features that make us question why traditional hampers haven't evolved in decades. The brand focuses on adaptable pieces that grow with changing needs.
Their material choices read like a sustainability wishlist: compressed felt from recycled bottles, responsibly sourced leather accents. While many storage solutions seem designed for hiding away, these pieces almost dare you to leave them out in the open. It's a refreshing take on organization that feels particularly relevant as living spaces continue to shrink.

Why we like Open Spaces

  • 1

    Thoughtful Features

    Practical innovations that enhance everyday use

  • 2

    Sustainable Materials

    Recycled materials and responsible sourcing

  • 3

    Display-Worthy Design

    Beautiful organization solutions that complement decor

Artie S

Artie S

08/31/24

this hamper is such a nice upgrade from the plastic crate I was using before 😅the design is lovely, it was a breeze to set up and i appreciate that it’s tall so it works well in my tiny bathroom. the zip off bag inside makes my walk to the laundry room much simpler. bonus points, my cat seems to really like it too!

IMG_1982.jpeg

Maura

Maura

08/28/24

This hamper is beautiful! (who says that about a hamper?!), slim, and spacious. I also was apprehensive about whether the removable bag would be truly easy to take out or put back in, but I can confirm that it was- a major plus. The only things that have room for improvement are the set-up (I tried for so long to jam the rods that hold the basket upright until I realized the trick was to push the center button down) and perhaps a better handle on the top- I find it a bit hard to grab. Other than that, I definitely reccomend this as a beautiful, functional way to store and transport laundry.

: Japanese Design Masters Making Small Spaces Sing

With roots stretching back to 1918, Yamazaki Home brings Japanese space optimization to Western homes. Their Cable Management Box tackles the modern scourge of cord clutter with characteristic elegance. What began with humble ironing boards has evolved into a complete philosophy of space-conscious living.
Their in-house design team's attention to cultural differences is fascinating - they'll adjust products based on something as specific as regional paper towel sizes. We're drawn to how they balance minimalist aesthetics with practical functionality, creating pieces that work as hard as they look good.

Why we like Yamazaki Home

  • 1

    Cultural Adaptation

    Products tailored to regional differences

  • 2

    Space Optimization

    Japanese-inspired solutions for modern homes

  • 3

    Heritage Brand

    Century of experience in home organization

Emma Leuchten

Emma Leuchten

02/28/24

A gift to myself ;) Life-changing home office upgrade. No more tangled mess of wires on the floor.

: Turning Everyday Objects into Conversation Starters

Tortuga Forma injects personality into usually bland household items. Their Dumbo Bookend Single Arc transforms a typically forgettable object into something that demands attention. By collaborating with designers globally, they're creating pieces that feel both fresh and considered.
The brand's approach to materials shows creative thinking in action - they've found ways to turn old tires into stylish placemats. Their small-batch production methods allow for closer quality control and more experimental designs. We're fascinated by how they manage to make sustainable choices without compromising on visual impact.

Why we like Tortuga Forma

  • 1

    Creative Upcycling

    Innovative use of recycled materials

  • 2

    Global Design Collaboration

    Fresh perspectives from international designers

  • 3

    Small-Batch Quality

    Controlled production for experimental designs

Maggie

Maggie

04/24/24

I use these in my office and love how sturdy they are!

: Silicon Valley's Answer to Analog Organization

Most Modest bridges the gap between digital precision and handcrafted charm. Their Cody desktop organizer demonstrates how technology can enhance traditional craftsmanship rather than replace it. Their San Francisco location puts them at the intersection of tech innovation and design thinking.
The brand's commitment to American manufacturing allows them to maintain tight quality control while rapidly iterating designs. Their connection to the Bay Area design community creates a feedback loop that keeps their products evolving. We're intrigued by how they've managed to create objects that feel both cutting-edge and timeless.

Why we like Most Modest

  • 1

    Tech-Inspired Design

    Digital precision meets analog craftsmanship

  • 2

    Local Manufacturing

    American-made with rapid iteration capability

  • 3

    Community-Driven

    Strong connection to Bay Area design scene

: Dutch Design Making Bold Statements in Subtle Spaces

Operating from Utrecht, Cloudnola brings post-modern flair to functional objects. Their Flip Med Pink & Yellow Vase exemplifies their ability to create statement pieces that don't overwhelm their surroundings. The brand's Dutch design heritage shines through in their bold color choices and clean geometries.
Their customization options suggest an understanding that modern homes need flexibility. We appreciate how they've found ways to incorporate personality into minimalist design without sacrificing function. Their success shows there's still room for innovation in the crowded field of home accessories.

Why we like Cloudnola

  • 1

    Dutch Design Heritage

    Post-modern aesthetics with practical function

  • 2

    Bold Color Choices

    Statement pieces that complement spaces

  • 3

    Customization Options

    Flexible solutions for modern homes

The Future of Home Design

These brands represent a shift in how we think about home goods. They're proving that everyday objects can be thoughtfully designed, sustainably produced, and still serve their primary functions beautifully. Whether through material innovation, clever engineering, or social responsibility, each company offers a distinct vision of how our homes might look - and function - in the years ahead.