Power strips or extension cords are no longer foreign sights in public spaces and homes. It’s almost as if the architecture of buildings and houses hasn’t caught up with modern times, neglecting the growing need for accessible power outlets. Then again, some establishments intentionally limit those sources of power as deterrents to loitering and lounging that deprive customers of space and businesses of added income.
As common as they may be, the design of power strips hasn’t exactly changed that much over the past years. Aside from designs that include individual switches and fuses per socket, the dominant power strip design has remained the same uninspiring white box as it has been for decades. It is useful but not particularly pleasing. This concept design tries to give the power strip a facelift to turn it into a simple yet eye-catching display that makes every use feel more alive and engaging.
Designer: PTPC
These days, there are many “modern” designs that try to inject a bit of life into gadgets and appliances by adding AI and displays to their feature lists. While those definitely upgrade the experience, they are not the only methods available to change the formula. There are plenty of other ways to make a design look more interesting, one that doesn’t need anything more than a play of light and shadow.
The Lightbox Power Strip, as the name pretty much states, is a combination of a three-socket power strip and a small lightbox. The idea is pretty simple, with the box providing not only power but also a pleasant sight that contrasts with the potential mess of cables coming out from the top of the rather large box. That source of fun and entertainment comes from the light shining inside and out through translucent plates that give character to an otherwise boring piece of equipment.
The translucent plate with prints and stickers slides in and out of the body, hiding behind a ridged plastic surface that adds visual texture to the design. A knob on top of the box controls the light color and intensity, allowing the owner to mix and match images and colors to their whims. It’s a simple, low-tech design that adds a bit of vibrancy to a mundane object that we use almost mindlessly every day.
Having only three sockets is admittedly a bit limiting, even with USB ports on the side. The bulk of the Lightbox Power Strip also makes it impossible to carry around with you, limiting its use to your house or semi-permanent locations. Nevertheless, it could be a source of attraction and interest, further fanning the flames of power outlet wars.
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