PowerPlace: A Revolutionary Charging Station

Philipp Hainke's Award-Winning Design Merges Functionality and Aesthetics

The inspiration for PowerPlace came from everyday observations at various places like airports, libraries, cafes, and private homes. It became evident that the evolution of technology and its integration into everyday life has outpaced the design of our environment. This realization led to an examination of the interaction between the user, device, and charging interface, culminating in the creation of PowerPlace.

PowerPlace is more than just a charging station. Its puristic design language is paired with a technological inside, making it a hybrid piece of furniture. The object combines an extension cable, a portable battery, storage space, and a variety of charging interfaces in one organized object. Its potential applications are diverse, ranging from private homes, cafes, co-working spaces, and offices to hotels and bars.

The construction of PowerPlace prioritizes sustainability. The body and all supportive parts are made from aluminum, and all plastic parts are made from the same polymer and have the same color treatment. When disassembled, one is left with a block of aluminum, a collection of plastic components, a lithium battery, cables, and various circuit boards.

PowerPlace is not just a charging station but a piece of furniture that enhances the aesthetics of any space. Its dimensions (Width 260 mm x Depth 200 mm x Height 740 mm) make it a compact and versatile addition to any environment. The color accent used for the handle helps to recognize the object in any environment.

The design of PowerPlace is a result of meticulous research and observation. The project investigates neglected areas of need in the present living environment to find innovative solutions. The design process involved observing users interacting with objects and surroundings, focusing on the increasing dependency on multimedia devices and the consequent need for electricity. This led to the creation of a solution for the chaos of cables, plugs, and chargers in private rooms, offices, and semi-public spaces.

The PowerPlace project, created during Philipp Hainke's Master Thesis at the Berlin University of the Arts from October 2018 to October 2019, has been recognized for its innovation and design excellence. It was exhibited at the IMM Cologne in January 2020 and was awarded Silver in A' Energy Products, Projects and Devices Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award is a testament to the design's outstanding expertise and innovation.