Simplehuman
It always excites me to see companies succeed due to exquisite design innovation. For OXO’s Good Grips to Nintendo’s Wii, they become public lighthouses, beacons that bring awareness of Design to the masses.
Simplehuman is one that may be added to the list. I purchased one of their trash cans after using one at my in-law’s. The Industrial Design is quite good, but it’s more than just a beautiful object. The experience of using it is superb. Opening the lid with a foot pedal isn’t a new idea, but it is a good one. The lid slowly eases closed, rather than slamming down. The interior plastic bin into which you put the trash bag, and the way it holds the bag in place, is nothing short of ingenious.
It’s a good sign when mundane objects can inspire emotion. I’m now lusting after their napkin holder.