#HTE

Yea or Nay, Part 2: Modular Desk Design Makes a Comeback

Last year we looked at Deskbloks, a design for modular desks that was a disaster on IndieGogo (just €27–not €27,000, just €27–raised on €30,000 goal). This year the designers have regrouped, addressed some of the design issues, re-branded the system Modulos and are trying again:

They’ve gotten rid of the steel mending plates used in the previous design, sensibly moved all of the ports to the edges of the blocks rather than the undersides and added a quarter-round module. Here’s a complete list of the system’s features:

Basic module - a simple flat surface basic module
Rounded module - a module used when you want to create a rounded edge on your Modulos desk
Cabling hole module - a module with a cabling hole that enables you to handle that mess of cables that go through to the top of your work surface
Pencil holder module - a module with neat grooves that prevents your pencils from rolling off your work surface
iPad/iPhone dock - this module enables you to dock your tablet or mobile phone. It has a groove that fits your device and three strategically placed holes that lead your charger cable from below the desk
Rotary iPad/iPhone dock - this module has a groove that fits your devices with a center hole for cabling and allows you to rotate your device. This works great when you’re using your iPad as a second screen or want to keep an eye on your phone screen at all times. It is available as an upgrade over standard modules available for +$49 per module.
“Twist” power outlet module - a module that has a very stylish, high-quality and super-functional metal add-on in the middle, that holds two power sockets! It is available as an upgrade over standard modules available for +$79 per module.
USB Hub module - a module with an integrated USB hub. We have designed and produced a prototype that includes a quality Sabrent USB 3.0 hub. This module will be available shortly in production as well. We need to test out some more options regarding the best USB hubs to integrate. We would love to hear your opinions about it!
Wireless charger module - a module with an integrated wireless charging pad neatly engraved into the surface. The prototype is done with a standard IKEA charger. We are looking into better options and better charger models to integrate.

Even with all of these features, I still cannot see the enduring benefit of having a desk built in this way. Kickstarter backers, however, disagree with me; at press time the Modulos had been successfully funded, with $34,164 pledge on a $30,000 goal. Kudos to the designers for sticking with it and regrouping after the initial version didn’t take.

What say you? Do you see any merits in the design, and would you buy one of these?