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Phainō – A deep-sea cuddle companion for dark nights

'Phainō' is a cuddle companion designed to help children aged from 6–10 who fear the dark fall asleep, using sensory-based interventions to promote emotional security at bedtime.

The concept consists of the deep-sea cuddle companion that emits subtle, warm light and womb-like sounds, complemented by soft-textured accessories and a wave-projecting charging-dock that functions as a daytime hiding space. Drawing on principles of biophilia, the object uses organic forms, warm hues and multi-sensory cues to avoid overstimulation.

The clue to the whole concept is: before 'Phainō' becomes the child's daily companion, it must first befriend the child. First, the parents buy a crystal that gives access to the 'Phainō' app, that is a window to all the life at the ground of the sea. On this app, the child answers a few questions until, at the end, one of many deep-sea creatures approaches the child and adopts them. Some days later, the toy arrives in a box at the families home, waiting to be unpacked.

'Phainō' will exhibited at Berlin Design Week 2026.

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