Thermacell

E90

Thermacell

E90

From Utilitarian Performance to Domestic Ambiance


Thermacell is a cornerstone of the outdoor community, yet its heritage design language was historically rooted in the high-contrast, functional aesthetics of backcountry equipment. For the E-series, the challenge was to repackage this industry-leading defense technology into a form factor that feels at home on a premium patio—shifting the narrative from "performance gear" to "functional home decor."


Drawing inspiration from the softened geometries of riverstones and outdoor stoneware, we developed a cohesive, architectural silhouette that prioritizes subtlety. By unifying the enclosure and simplifying the UI to a single intuitive touchpoint, the unit recedes into the background of a domestic setting until activated. We prioritized a seamless user "takedown" for cartridge refills and utilized premium, weather-resistant finishes that elevate the brand’s perceived value. The final execution successfully transitioned Thermacell from a trailside mainstay into a lifestyle essential, proving that industrial-grade protection can coexist with sophisticated residential design.

Utilitarian Performance to Outdoor Ambiance


Thermacell is a cornerstone of the outdoor community, yet its heritage design language was historically rooted in the high-contrast, functional aesthetics of backcountry equipment. For the E-series, the challenge was to repackage this industry-leading defense technology into a form factor that feels at home on a premium patio—shifting the narrative from "performance gear" to "functional home decor."


Drawing inspiration from the softened geometries of riverstones and outdoor stoneware, we developed a cohesive, architectural silhouette that prioritizes subtlety. By unifying the enclosure and simplifying the UI to a single intuitive touchpoint, the unit recedes into the background of a domestic setting until activated. We prioritized a seamless user "takedown" for cartridge refills and utilized premium, weather-resistant finishes that elevate the brand’s perceived value. The final execution successfully transitioned Thermacell from a trailside mainstay into a lifestyle essential, proving that industrial-grade protection can coexist with sophisticated residential design.

Designed at:

Motiv Design LLC.

ID Team:

Connor Benton, Ben Hines, Steffen Koury, James McGee

ENG Team:

Brent Boswell, Brendan Crawford, Jim Shepherd

My Contributions:

Industrial Design, UI/UX Design, CMF, Visuals

Recognition:

Wirecutter Pick (2022)