zone focus timer helps retain focus with each turn of the cube
As we continue to grapple with digital distractions and noisy productivity hacks, Nyckle Sijtsma’s ZONE is a small gadget serving as a physical, calming tool to reclaim your attention. The iF 2025 award-winning focus timer strips time management down to its most essential form: a small handheld cube that helps you focus with more intention. The object is wrapped in soft molded silicone, with four rounded edges that represent four customizable time blocks of 5, 10, 25, and 60 minutes. A simple turn activates each preset; a tactile cue to begin a focused session or take a restorative break.
The minimalist design eliminates unnecessary data like seconds or milliseconds, replacing stress-inducing countdowns with a subtle LED display and a gentle vibraphone chime. The internal tech, integrating custom PCB, 600-nit screen and 1000 mAh rechargeable battery, supports reliable, daily use, while the form remains calming and intuitive.
all images courtesy of Nyckle Sijtsma
Nyckle Sijtsma creates a small, durable gadget for everyday use
The idea for ZONE began in late 2023, as Nyckle Sijtsma sought to design a focus tool that felt more authentically like an object for living than a tech gadget. Through months of sketching, prototyping, and testing, the Dutch designer’s concept evolved into a functional problem-solving and emotionally resonant object. Rounded cutouts subtly mark the timer’s four sides, guiding the hand without the need for screens or buttons. The molded silicone surface is also comforting to touch, while remaining durable, inviting consistent use throughout the workday.
Beyond this, ZONE extends into a fuller productivity system through the optional Focus Bundle, which includes four glass whiteboards tucked into a bamboo base. These reusable boards allow users to plan daily tasks, brainstorm ideas, or sketch during breaks, essentially turning ZONE into a modular, analog-digital hybrid workspace. It is available in three colorways — Midnight Focus, Daylight Clarity, and Blue Flow — and each version speaks to a distinct working mood. ZONE is available on Kickstarter.
ZONE is a small gadget serving as a physical, calming tool to reclaim your attention
Nyckle Sijtsma strips time management down to its most essential form
wrapped in soft molded silicone
ZONE extends into a fuller productivity system through the optional Focus Bundle
with our rounded edges that represent four customizable time blocks of 5, 10, 25, and 60 minutes
the design eliminates unnecessary data like seconds or milliseconds, replacing stress-inducing countdowns
four customizable work-blocks
available in three different colors
sketching phase
project info:
name: ZONE Focus Timer
designer: Nyckle Sijtsma | @nycklesijtsma
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: ravail khan | designboom
The post with each turn, nyckle sijtsma’s small ZONE timer helps you restore your focus appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.