aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools

kan series explores the relationship between material and the body.

Amit Hadar edited by christina vergopoulou April 15, 2026 3 min

KAN series Explores Tactile Interaction and Bodily Awareness

KAN is a series of three handheld objects by designer Amit Hadar that explores the relationship between material, body, and attention. Each piece is scaled to the palm and is designed to support simple actions such as holding, rotating, or resting. Through these interactions, the objects emphasize tactile awareness and physical engagement.

The project is structured around three moments: cooling, movement, and weight. These correspond to different modes of interaction, awakening, refocusing, and grounding, forming a sequence of use that unfolds through direct contact rather than prescribed function.

KAN proposes an approach to object design based on minimal interaction and material perception. By focusing on touch, movement, and physical presence, the series frames everyday gestures as a means of re-engaging with the body. The project is presented at the Isola Design District during Milan Design Week 2026.

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 1 — all images courtesy of Amit Hadar

Cold Metal and Translucent Acrylic Guide Touch and Movement

KAN series’ material selection by designer Amit Hadar plays a central role in shaping the experience. The objects combine aluminum and semi-transparent acrylic, establishing a contrast between density and lightness. Aluminum introduces a cold, solid quality, while acrylic contributes visual permeability and reduced weight. Variations in texture, temperature, and mass generate distinct sensory responses across the three pieces.

The formal language is reduced to essential geometries, allowing interaction to emerge intuitively. Subtle neon accents indicate points of contact, rotation, or balance, guiding use without imposing fixed behavior.

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 2 — the series is structured around cooling, movement, and weight

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 3 — each piece is scaled to fit within the palm

kan-series-three-handheld-objects-amit-hadar-material-body-attention-designboom-1800-3 — cooling surfaces introduce an awakening tactile response

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 4 — acrylic introduces lightness and partial transparency

kan-series-three-handheld-objects-amit-hadar-material-body-attention-designboom-1800-1 — three handheld objects explore the relationship between material and the body

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 5 — interaction is defined through touch rather than function

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 6 — each object corresponds to a distinct sensory condition

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 7 — movement-based interaction supports focus and repetition

kan-series-three-handheld-objects-amit-hadar-material-body-attention-designboom-1800-2 — neon accents mark points of contact and movement

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 8 — aluminum provides density and a cold surface quality

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 9 — the objects invite simple actions such as holding and rotating

aluminum and acrylic handheld objects frame touch, weight, and movement as design tools - 10 — weighted forms create a sense of grounding

project info:

name: KAN
designer: Amit Hadar

presented at: Isola Design District, Milan Design Week 2026

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