These four products demonstrate the positive influence that good design can have on our well-being
We interact with dozens of products every day, often casually and rarely consciously. In these everyday encounters, design influences our emotional state and behaviour almost imperceptibly. Design determines how actions are experienced, especially when everyday life becomes routine.
Research conducted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health shows that environmental quality—and thus that of designed products—directly influences stress levels, well-being, and cognitive performance. Products create designed microenvironments through factors such as weight, acoustics, visual signals, and movement rhythms, all of which have measurable effects on emotional experience.
Here, the decisive factor is not so much technical performance as the quality of interaction. Reduced geometries, soft materials and smooth movements eliminate any sense of threat from the technology.
Three iF DESIGN AWARD-winning products demonstrate how this is achieved.
Redefine routine:
Hardly any other product is as synonymous with repetition as the vacuum cleaner. It is therefore all the more remarkable that the Miele Guard vacuum cleaner series, winner of several iF DESIGN AWARDS 2025, offers a fresh take on this experience. Its quiet motors, balanced weight and visually calming design reduce physical and cognitive stress.
A study by Desmet and Fokkinga (2020) on product experience shows that predictable, easily controllable interactions can reduce frustration and strengthen feelings of self-efficacy.¹ Thus, the vacuum cleaner transforms from a mere tool into an everyday regulator that reduces resistance without promising joy.
Control through reduction
The iCandy Pip Compact Fold Stroller is a compact stroller designed for everyday urban life. The winner of the iF DESIGN AWARD Gold 2025 transforms potentially stressful situations into controlled, almost casual experiences. Its one-hand folding mechanism and clear, minimalist design promote safety and confidence, effects created not by additional technology, but by the clarity and control conveyed by the design.
A study by Nagamachi and Lokman (2020) on innovation in Kansei Engineering shows that targeted simplification, intuitive mechanics and reduced visual complexity can promote positive effects such as ease and trust. Here, joy arises not from innovation, but from consistency.
Emotional interaction in everyday life
This is further exemplified by Samsung's AI companion robot, Ballie, winner of the iF DESIGN AWARD Gold 2025 for Professional Concept. Ballie can respond to conversations, adapt to its surroundings and project content directly onto nearby surfaces.
Studies on human–product interaction show that objects with social characteristics promote sympathy, trust, and curiosity — effects that are considered central to acceptance and long-term use. Through its gaze, movement patterns and dialogue, Ballie does not give the impression of being a device, but rather a counterpart. This transforms artificial intelligence from an abstract system into an emotionally accessible companion.
The potential of emotionally effective design is further demonstrated by the Galaxy Ring from Samsung, which also won the iF Award 2025. This smart ring discreetly accompanies its wearer through everyday life, enabling continuous health monitoring of factors such as sleep, heart rate and stress levels. The type of interaction is more important than the technological performance: made of titanium and designed with a concave shape, the ring fits naturally into existing routines. Rather than demanding attention, its design focuses on restraint, haptics, and close integration with the body. This creates a feeling of support and control rather than surveillance.
Good design changes more than just products; it changes experiences, too. It doesn't generate spectacular emotions. Instead, it reduces friction, creates trust and makes everyday life easier in the areas where we need it most. This is precisely where its quiet, often underestimated effect lies.