In the digital age where most of our notes are scrawled into devices, the charm of analog tools remains undeniable. Among them lie the Triangle and Sidekick notebooks—two uniquely shaped notebooks that challenge traditional notions of how we take notes and express our creativity. Designed to invoke curiosity, these notebooks transcend their primary purpose, morphing into catalysts for artistic expression and innovative thinking. Their shapes are not merely gimmicks; they beckon users to engage in a deeper interaction with the act of writing and doodling, reimagining what we can do with a humble notebook.
From Inspiration to Purchase: The Journey of Discovery
For Andru Marino, an audio and video producer at The Verge, the initial discovery of the Triangle notebook was serendipitous—likely through an Instagram ad. This seemingly trivial avenue of inspiration led Marino to contemplate the intriguing design of the notebook for several months before making the purchase. The allure of something distinctive and eccentric resonated with him, showcasing how visual aesthetics can provoke profound curiosity. It’s interesting to consider how our digital habits—browsing and bookmarking—can lead us to explore non-conventional items that catalyze creativity simply by virtue of their design.
His excitement hinged on the prospect of using an object that defied normality; a triangle that unfurls into a square. Such design is not only innovative but also invites users to interact with the notebook differently. Marino’s enthusiasm also extended to the Sidekick notebook, which intriguingly fits alongside the keyboard—a feature that livens up the often mundane workspace.
Reimagining Workspace Dynamics
One of the most compelling aspects of these notebooks lies in their ability to transform the workspace dynamic. While traditional notebooks often clutter our desks, the minimalist effort of the Sidekick and Triangle notebooks presents an alternative. Their unconventional shapes and sizes necessitate new ways of thinking about note-taking. The functionality of these notebooks—designed for both writing and doodling—allows for a tangible juxtaposition against the sterile digital interfaces most people are accustomed to.
The Triangle Notebook stands out particularly for its sturdy design, making it applicable in settings that demand versatility: on a lap during meetings, for instance. For individuals looking to simplify their local surroundings amid chaos, these notebooks become not only tools for notes but also sources of aesthetic joy. Desks crammed with standard notebooks can now be navigated with creativity and whimsy.
Challenges and Quirks in Design
However, no product is without its flaws, and Marino candidly shares some grievances about the notebooks. Despite their artistic edge, he questions the practicality of the Sidekick’s L shape for substantial note-taking. The design could provoke hesitation in some users who might question its functional integrity. Marino also speaks of storage woes for the longitudinal Triangle Notebook and notes its limited page count, which raises questions about the value proposition at a $33 price point—especially for something one might worry could be more of a novelty than a necessity.
Moreover, the difficulty in tearing out pages may deter users who wish to share their notes seamlessly. This point reiterates an important design consideration: that aesthetic appeal must coexist with practicality in order to foster sustained use among consumers.
The Creative Catalyst
Despite these reservations, the essence of these notebooks is not lost. Marino’s journey of expectation resonates with many creatives, as he admits that while his notes might not transform into extraordinary works of art, the act of doodling more frequently is a victory in its own right. These notebooks inspire exploration and self-expression, inviting use cases that extend beyond mere sentence structure into freeform artistry.
This discourse leads to interesting questions: Who are these notebooks truly meant for? Ideal candidates seem to include artists looking for a gentle nudge during meetings or brainstorms—a tactile way to capture fleeting ideas and visuals. The eccentric design can serve as an icebreaker, prompting conversations about creativity and collaboration.
More importantly, they represent an invitation to embrace creativity amidst the mundane. By choosing to engage with such distinctive tools, users are reminded of the beauty that lies in simplicity and innovation. Creativity, after all, is sparked not solely by the tools we use but also by the mindset we cultivate when engaging with them. As society further immerses itself in the digital realm, instruments like the Triangle and Sidekick notebooks stand as bold reminders of a different path—one where creativity flourishes in the most unconventional forms.