KAN: Exploring Tactile Sensation and Bodily Awareness through Design

April 15, 2026

The KAN series by Amit Hadar introduces a novel approach to object design, emphasizing the intrinsic connection between material properties and human perception. This collection of three distinct handheld items encourages users to rediscover their physical presence and tactile senses through intentional interaction, moving beyond conventional functional design to foster a deeper, more mindful engagement with everyday objects.

Unlock Your Senses: A Journey Through Touch, Motion, and Presence

The KAN Series: Bridging Material, Body, and Focused Attention

The KAN collection, conceived by the visionary designer Amit Hadar, comprises three unique handheld items. This series delves into the profound interplay among the materials used, the human body, and the user’s concentrated attention. Each piece is meticulously crafted to comfortably fit within the palm, facilitating effortless actions such as grasping, turning, or simply holding. These fundamental interactions are designed to cultivate a heightened sense of touch and foster a deeper physical connection.

Interactive Principles: Cooling, Movement, and Mass as Engagement Tools

The essence of the KAN project is organized around three primary interactive states: the sensation of cooling, the dynamic of movement, and the perception of weight. These states are intricately linked to distinct modes of engagement—invigorating the senses, redirecting focus, and establishing a grounded presence. Together, they form a progressive sequence of use that unfolds through direct physical contact, rather than relying on predetermined functions.

Redefining Object Interaction: A Minimalist Approach to Material Perception

KAN advocates for an object design philosophy rooted in minimal interaction and an acute awareness of material characteristics. By prioritizing the experiences of touch, motion, and physical presence, the series transforms routine gestures into pathways for re-establishing a conscious connection with the body. This innovative project will be showcased at the prestigious Isola Design District during Milan Design Week 2026, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore its sensory dimensions.

Crafting Experience: The Strategic Selection of Aluminum and Translucent Acrylic

The material composition of the KAN series, carefully chosen by designer Amit Hadar, is fundamental to shaping the user's experience. The objects skillfully combine aluminum with semi-transparent acrylic, creating a captivating interplay of density and lightness. Aluminum imparts a cool, robust quality, while acrylic contributes visual transparency and reduces overall mass. The thoughtful variations in texture, temperature, and weight across the three pieces evoke distinct sensory responses, enriching the tactile journey.

Intuitive Forms: Guiding Interaction Through Essential Geometries and Subtle Accents

The aesthetic language of the KAN series is distilled into fundamental geometric shapes, facilitating intuitive interaction. Discreet neon highlights are strategically placed to indicate areas for contact, rotation, or balance, gently guiding the user’s engagement without imposing rigid operational instructions. This design choice ensures that exploration and discovery remain at the heart of the user experience, fostering a natural and unconstrained interaction with each object.