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
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Innovative Material Science
Uses diatomaceous earth for natural moisture-wicking
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Sustainable Vision
Focuses on eco-friendly materials and packaging
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Problem-Solving Design
Tackles common bathroom issues with sophisticated solutions
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
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Smart Engineering
Magnetic connections and silicone-coated anchors solve common issues
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Sustainability Focus
Closed-loop system for minimal environmental impact
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.
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
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Versatile Design
Multi-functional products that maximize value
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Certified B Corp
Verified commitment to social and environmental responsibility
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
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Thoughtful Features
Practical innovations that enhance everyday use
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Sustainable Materials
Recycled materials and responsible sourcing
3
Display-Worthy Design
Beautiful organization solutions that complement decor
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!

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
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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
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
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Creative Upcycling
Innovative use of recycled materials
2
Global Design Collaboration
Fresh perspectives from international designers
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Small-Batch Quality
Controlled production for experimental designs
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
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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
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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.