Fans are usually used for moving air around to cool down the searing heat in a room and let you enjoy the small feeling of an artificial breeze in the confinement of your office. Well, it seems that Swiss designer Carlo Borer has a different and by all means larger perception of what a fan could or even should be: functionality and art in one single piece! And if you are having a rather hard time picturing such a combination, let us introduce to you the Q and the Otto, the piece-of-art fans.

One thing is for sure when it comes to Carlo Borer: he doesn't like things the way they are in the first place and these two fans of his are the best proof in this regard: while the principle and functionality remain the same, Borer manages to introduce the element of art in the equation and this means quite a lot.

Q and Otto are almost complementary: while Q is a gadget for the industrial-look lovers, Otto looks like the perfect tool for the more conservative and "natural" customers. Q is made entirely of metal and comes in two stunning finishes: brushed aluminium and chrome, each with a distinct and refined look, which could easily integrate in modern decors, whether we're thinking about a nifty living room or an elegant office.

On the other hand, Otto comes in two wood finishes and is easier to orientate as it boasts adjustable feet, allowing you to quickly set it in the best position to cool you down. And because Otto sports a 5-blade construction, it's possible to provide you with a more consistent "breeze" than its 3-bladed brother. Looking beyond their primary functionality, these fans are a true statement that art can be found in pretty much any object, as long as the designer can actually see that there is more to objects than meets the eye.

Far from being items of utter luxury, the Q and Otto fans from Carlo Borer are rather casual gadgets anyone could easily bring at home or install in an office. It's true, they're artsy and look way better than your common 10-buck fans from the corner shop, but one should note that Borer is also an artist so you'll actually bring a work of art into your environment. You should fork out around $400 for Otto and under $170 for Q.


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