British design studio Layer has introduced an innovative suite of charging products that emphasize flexibility and personal expression. Leading the project, industrial designer Benjamin Hubert, collaborated with Indian accessories brand Daily Objects to rethink how users interact with technology at home.
The new offerings include two standout products, Node and Loft, which aim to transform what’s often considered mundane into a more enjoyable and tailored experience. “Charging your tech is one of the most repeated interactions in daily life, yet the charging products are often relegated to the status of background objects,” Hubert remarked. “With Node and Loft, we aimed to infuse clarity, flexibility, and unique character into the user experience.”
Most current multi-device charging solutions utilize a one-size-fits-all approach, which typically involves static stands designed primarily for functionality. Layer’s design philosophy diverges from this norm, focusing on a system that can adapt to individual lifestyles and preferences. The Node system features a 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 dock and a collection of four interchangeable modules—including wireless chargers and a portable lamp—that can be easily repositioned based on user needs.
Each component, such as the wireless phone charger and Apple Watch stand, retains functionality whether docked or used separately. This modularity allows users to shift their charging solutions easily from a work desk to a nightstand or dining area. “Most multi-device charging products assume a fixed configuration, yet Node challenges that convention, supporting a modular design based around personal needs,” Hubert expressed.
Importantly, each module comes with built-in batteries, enabling wireless convenience, with the systems capable of delivering 25 Watts of charge for phones and 5 Watts for Apple Watches. The portable lamp, a delightful addition, provides up to eight hours of ambient light with adjustable brightness settings, expanding the product range beyond just charging tasks.
Layer’s Loft charging station complements the Node system by offering mains power and fast USB-C charging for up to four devices simultaneously. The overall design adopts a sculptural aesthetic, ensuring each piece can be showcased within both home and office settings rather than hidden away.
The visual language of this product family is characterized by soft, engaging forms, tactile materials, and a deliberate use of color, presenting a more expressive and approachable image compared to typical electronic devices. Hubert noted, “Node is more playful and personal than conventional chargers, transforming the often monotonous task of charging into a customizable experience.”
The collection’s rounded forms promote accessibility, presenting surfaces that encourage interaction. The design leverages a circular motif for signaling charging points, echoing common visual cues associated with wireless technology, which users will find familiar, especially within Apple’s ecosystem.
The docking surfaces feature a custom rubber pattern that both enhances usability and contributes a distinctive design aspect. Soft-touch finishes and a diverse color palette further distinguish these products, providing a friendlier contrast to traditional consumer electronics. Hubert highlighted that “the matte surfaces make handling pleasant and contribute to a calmer, more tactile interaction.”
The focus on material selection and design ensures a warm, human-centered approach to technology, making everyday interactions feel less burdensome and more engaging. Layer remains committed to optimizing battery management, thermal performance, and charging efficiency while maintaining portability.
While the Loft system is initially targeted at the Indian market, it shows promise for adaptation in other regions, including Europe and North America. The Node system, however, is designed to be universally applicable, supporting a diverse range of Apple devices regardless of user location.
This project exemplifies Layer's commitment to a human-centered design philosophy, which extends across collaborations with major brands such as Nike, Sony, Samsung, and Pepsi. Their previous work includes a range of technologically advanced products, affirming their position as innovators within the design industry.
The photography featured is provided courtesy of Layer, showcasing the thoughtful integration of style and functionality within their new product line.