Woodie: The All-in-one Power Hub

A Functional Design Object Inspired by Nature

To create Woodie, the designers wanted to address the limitations of traditional power strips, which are often purely functional and lack aesthetic appeal. They aimed to create a functional design object that would seamlessly complement any interior design. To achieve this, Woodie is available in different versions, each featuring high-quality natural elements such as wood, marble, and cement.

What sets Woodie apart from other power hubs on the market is its ability to incorporate multiple charging methods into one device. This makes it a truly unique offering. Whether you need to charge your devices using a plug, wireless charging, or USB ports, Woodie has got you covered.

The realization of Woodie involved a meticulous design process. It started with hand drawings and progressed to CAD and 3D renders for precise styling. Ten prototypes were created using a laser sintering 3D printer for testing purposes. The electronics components were carefully selected and tested with experts in the field, ensuring both functionality and safety. The final product is assembled by injecting plastic into molds and attaching the frame, which is crafted by skilled artisans.

Woodie boasts compact dimensions, measuring 135mm in square base with a fillet radius of 27mm and a height of 36mm. The frames, made of wood, marble, or concrete, are 8mm thick and 30mm high. The power sockets are designed to accommodate over 150 types of plugs, and the wireless charging coil operates on the Qi standard.

Operating Woodie is intuitive and user-friendly. Traditional charging with a plug is done in the usual manner, but Woodie's versatility allows for plugs from various countries, making it ideal for travelers. Wireless charging is as simple as placing a mobile phone on top of the Woodie logo, eliminating the need for cables. The USB ports function in the traditional way, providing additional charging options.

The Woodie project began in August 2014 in Buenos Aires and later moved to Milan in February 2015. It was exhibited at the FuoriSalone del Mobile in 2015 and had a special launch event on the Darsena in July of the same year.

The design of Woodie was informed by extensive research and feedback from potential customers. The designers conducted interviews with hotel owners and consumers, gathering data on preferences for natural materials and desired functions. This research, combined with A-B testing, helped shape the final design of Woodie, ensuring it met the needs and desires of its target audience.

Creating Woodie presented its fair share of challenges. Safety requirements for power hubs vary from country to country, making it crucial to find the right materials and suppliers to meet global safety standards. Additionally, minor design adjustments were made to prepare Woodie for industrial production, striking a balance between design and practicality.

Woodie has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2016. This prestigious award honors designs that exhibit creativity, technical skill, and a commitment to improving quality of life.

Woodie is not just a power hub; it is a testament to the fusion of technology and design. With its natural materials and versatile functionality, Woodie adds a touch of elegance to any space while keeping your devices powered up and ready to go.