After years of being immersed in minimalism, the design world seems to be saying in the other direction to promote the strengths of maximalism. Not everyone is ready to jump ship, however, and some are finding ways to bridge the divide. Hidden functions are often found in furniture that looks bare or uninteresting. IKEA is known for its minimalist approach and has begun to incorporate smart functions into its furniture like hidden speakers or wireless charging. Sometimes, however, those hidden features themselves can feel a bit overwhelming, like when a handsome bedside table turns out to have no less than eight functions you have to discover and remember since none of those are obvious at first glance.
Designer: Foshan Shunde Midea
A bedside table is where we often place a night lamp, either for reading at night or for lighting in the darkness. These days, it’s also where we put our phones on as well, sometimes charging them while we sleep. Books and other accessories can also sometimes go on or inside the table’s shelves and drawers. Some appliance makers are now trying to make it more convenient by placing everything but the kitchen sink on a tiny table next to your bed.
There is one way to place a mini fridge in that same position as a bedside desk, but this is mostly for space conservation, particularly in hotels. Midea’s Smart Bedside Table admittedly doesn’t go that far, but it has thrown in everything else that it says is related to bedroom activities. Or at least the ones that will help you sleep more comfortably.
The bedside table’s main functions are supposedly for air purification and humidification, something that’s not directly apparent when looking at the beautifully minimal piece of furniture. The “sub-functions,” however, are where things get a bit more out of hand. The table has a concealed wireless charging spot, however it is only at the top. The rear area of that surface actually flips open to reveal low-temperature storage with just enough room for a bottle or a few cans. The front area actually does open up to a UV sterilizing compartment for your gadgets or jewelry. You’ll also find a USB hub and an aroma diffuser. There is even some lighting.
On its own, the Midea smart bedside table is already quite attractive with its wooden body and clean design. It’s hard to see that the Midea smart bedside table hides a lot of functions, but it is possible to. As the saying goes, “Out of sight is out of mind” and you might not want to think about a few functions before drifting off into dreamland. You will be able to drift off into dreamland in peace, and not disturbed by the thoughts about that drink in your hidden minibar.
