A Router Worth Showing Off.
Routed challenges the cold, technical look of traditional WiFi routers; devices often hidden away in closets or behind furniture. A shame as this not only means people spend money on something they’d rather hide, it can also interfere with signal strength.
Routed flips that norm by embracing soft, organic forms and a warm, sustainable material; Cork.
Naturally Better.
Cork is a great material that has properties perfectly suited for a Wi-Fi router whilst also being fully regenerative. Its low density allows signals to easily pass through and presents a innovative alternative to plastic.
The material invites the user to touch, hold and appreciate a product in a unique way. Cork’s visual appearance also inclines users to present the products in their interior, rather than stow them away.
Refining the Form.
The project started with a simple goal: move away from the generic Wi-Fi router and design a device people want to display, not hide. The form was developed to feel inviting and interactive, with surfaces that visually suggest the collection of signals. Using a sprint design process, I explored proportions and iterations in Rhino - tweaking shapes and adding details step by step. Each adjustment pushed the concept closer to its final form.
Functional by Design.
The router shell consists of two main components, keeping the construction simple and straightforward. This approach makes the parts easy to produce while maintaining a functional design. The pieces fit together through friction, aided by the textured cork surface, creating a clean, unified form.
Inside, there is dedicated space for the circuit board, along with additional clearance at the top that allows hot air to rise naturally, helping to keep the device cool during operation. The combination of simple assembly, functional design, and tactile material creates a router that is both practical and inviting.
