[ CASE STUDY ]

    KORU

    The Plant-Inspired Air Purifier

    Sustainable DesignSmart HomeAICrowdfunding

    KORU is a hybrid air purifier and smart planter that leverages nature's air-purifying power alongside advanced filtration technology. Inspired by NASA research on plant-based air purification, KORU enhances indoor air quality through a multi-stage filtration system while also nurturing a living plant through automated watering and environmental monitoring. The Indiegogo campaign surpassed 1000% of its funding goal, raising over 10,000 USD.

    Industry

    IoT / AI

    Year

    2020

    Areas of Expertise

    Sustainable DesignSmart HomeAIAir PurificationBiophilic DesignConcept DevelopmentProduct ArchitectureErgonomicsUser ExperienceRealistic RenderingsAnimations

    [ 01 / CONCEPT DESIGN ]

    Concept Design & Aesthetics

    ONMOTIO was instrumental in shaping KORU's visual identity and form factor.

    • Developed the conceptual vision in collaboration with the client
    • Defined the sleek, cylindrical design that integrates nature with smart technology
    • Ensured that KORU looked like a home decor object rather than a tech appliance

    The goal was to create an organic, nature-inspired aesthetic that seamlessly fits into modern interiors while conveying clean air and sustainable living.

    Concept Design & Aesthetics

    [ 02 / SUSTAINABLE DESIGN ]

    Sustainable & Elegant Design

    A statement piece, not an appliance.

    ONMOTIO defined the material story and proportions that let KORU sit on a shelf next to design objects rather than next to a router.

    • Premium eco-friendly materials. Available in White (cork base) or Black (wood base)
    • Compact and lightweight. 30cm x 25cm x 25cm (approximately 12" x 10" x 10")
    • Low-energy consumption. Uses only 16W, equivalent to an LED lamp
    • Washable filter system. No costly replacements, just rinse every 2 to 3 months

    The branding emphasized luxury minimalism, positioning KORU as functional home decor rather than just a gadget.

    Sustainable & Elegant Design

    [ 03 / ARCHITECTURE ]

    Product Architecture & Engineering

    We worked closely with the client's technical team to ensure seamless integration of the electronic components, sensors, and air filtration system. Our contributions included:

    • Structural optimization. Defined the internal architecture to house the filters, fan, water reservoir, and electronics efficiently
    • Sensor integration. Developed a layout that ensures accurate readings from the moisture, air quality, temperature, and light sensors
    • Smart self-watering system. Designed to be compact, efficient, and easy to maintain, ensuring the plant's long-term health

    Our work ensured that functionality and aesthetics were harmonized, making KORU intelligent yet intuitive to use.

    Product Architecture & Engineering
    Plastic Injection & Manufacturing Optimization

    [ 04 / MANUFACTURING ]

    Plastic Injection & Manufacturing Optimization

    Production-ready, without compromising the premium feel.

    To make KORU production-ready, ONMOTIO translated the concept volume into tooling-friendly geometry and assembly logic that scales on standard injection-molding lines.

    By optimizing for plastic injection molding, we helped make KORU scalable for production while maintaining its premium look and feel.

    • Developed the casing for plastic injection molding, ensuring high-quality, cost-effective manufacturing
    • Defined parting lines, assembly points, and fastening solutions for streamlined mass production
    • Worked on material selection, balancing durability, weight, and aesthetics

    [ 05 / MATERIALS ]

    Material Selection & Sustainability

    ONMOTIO advised on eco-friendly material choices that align with KORU's sustainability mission:

    • ABS plastic for lightweight durability
    • Cork and wood base options for a natural, warm aesthetic
    • Washable, long-lasting filter materials to eliminate the need for disposable HEPA filters

    These choices ensured that KORU was both stylish and sustainable, reducing environmental impact while maintaining a premium finish.

    Material Selection & Sustainability

    [ 06 / RENDERS & ANIMATIONS ]

    High-Quality 3D Renders & Animations

    To support KORU's launch and crowdfunding campaign, ONMOTIO created:

    • Photorealistic renders showcasing different color options and materials
    • Technical visualizations demonstrating the multi-stage filtration process
    • Explainer animations illustrating how KORU monitors and cares for plants autonomously
    High-Quality 3D Renders & Animations
    High-Quality 3D Renders & Animations
    High-Quality 3D Renders & Animations

    [ 07 / CROWDFUNDING ]

    Indiegogo Crowdfunding Support

    ONMOTIO played a key role in crafting the visual storytelling for the Indiegogo campaign, helping KORU raise ** 10,000+ USD**.

    • Designed compelling visual assets for the campaign page
    • Created engaging product renders and lifestyle imagery
    • Developed animated sequences to explain KORU's unique features effectively

    This visual content was crucial in communicating the product's value proposition, leading to a high-conversion crowdfunding campaign.

    Indiegogo Crowdfunding Support

    [ Results ]

    Redefining what an air purifier could be.

    KORU successfully combined air purification, plant care, AI automation, sustainability, and crowdfunding success in a single coherent product.

    Air purification + plant care in one product. A hybrid category, not a feature stack

    Eco-friendly design with no disposable filters. Washable filter system eliminates ongoing waste

    AI-driven automation for a hassle-free experience. Sensor-driven plant care and air quality response

    Successful crowdfunding. Raised over 10,000 USD on Indiegogo, 1000% of initial goal

    Now available for purchase. Online store live

    [ Testimonials ]

    What the founders are saying

    With ONMOTIO we found the perfect Design partner for our project KORU. Clement was leading our project in a very structured, transparent and professional way. Great communication and the result speaks for itself. KORU is a piece of art. Thank you so much for you awesome work. By the way, the renders are often confused with product photos.
    Founder
    Friedrich Eickhoff

    Friedrich Eickhoff

    CEO of Botany Labs, PlantKORU

    [ Project gallery ]

    KORU Project Gallery

    KORU Project Gallery 1
    KORU Project Gallery 2
    KORU Project Gallery 3
    KORU Project Gallery 4
    KORU Project Gallery 5
    KORU Project Gallery 6
    KORU Project Gallery 7

    [ RELATED SERVICES ]

    This project involved expertise across multiple disciplines. Explore the services that made it possible.

    Want to understand how projects like this come to life? Read our complete guide to developing a physical product →

    Have a similar project?

    Let's discuss how we can help bring your idea to life.