Yves Béhar makes having a conscience look good.
The 49-year-old founder and CEO of design firm Fuse- project and CCO of consumer tech brand Jawbone is one of the leading industrial designers of his generation, working with everyone from Herman Miller to General Electric, and favoring projects that promote social change.
His collaborations include One Laptop per Child (which offers computers to children in developing countries), SuperFlex (a line of clothing with motors to help elderly wearers with muscle function) and Canopy (a newish members-only work space in San Francisco).
The Swiss surfing enthusiast lives in SF with his four kids and wife, art consultant Sabrina Buell. Here are a few of Béhar’s favorite finds and celebrated creations.
Getting Around
OneWheel“After a good surf in the ocean, I like to continue riding on earth. The Onewheel is like surfing or snowboarding, and since it’s selfbalancing, the learning curve is immediate.” Onewheel board: $1,299 at Amazon
Working in Comfort
Yves Behar“In designing this chair, I was inspired by structural bridge construction. It’s comfortable, and the many color variations allow for a truly personal task chair.” “Sayl” chair: $780 at Herman Miller
The Shades
Margiela x Mykita“Round, thin-metal sunglasses are both classic and so forward. That’s always what I expect from Margiela, and the Mykita quality is just perfection.” Mykita + Maison Margiela sunglasses: $569 at Mykita
The Shoe
Joshua Sanders“I love a no-fuss, comfortable and slightly punkish shoe. This one goes perfectly with my ’80s bomber.” Joshua Sanders sneakers: $447 at Farfetch
The Tunes
Clear Audio“The German engineering in this vinyl turntable has surpassed German cars. After years of iPod music and streaming, it’s good to be able to say, ‘Nothing sounds remotely as good as those vinyl records.’” Clearaudio “Concept” wood turntable: $3,000 at Stereo Exchange
The Future
August Smart Lock“With a busy household, having my door open and close automatically as I arrive or leave — allowing deliveries and packages remotely easily — is a life-changing and reassuring experience.” August Smart Lock by Yves Béhar: $230 at Target
The Read
Tamara Beckwith “This is the eponymous story of how surf lifestyle came from the photography and art of Surfer magazine founder John Severson. Just a beautiful ode to surfing history, edited by Nathan Howe of Puka Puka in Maui.” “John Severson’s SURF” book: $45 at Art Book
Minty Fresh
Tamara Beckwith “The original version comes in a cool matte aluminum tube, and makes you smile like Marcello Mastroianni in ‘La Dolce Vita!’ ” Marvis toothpaste: $10.50 at Sephora
For Baby
Dennis Tang “Never mind the robotics and intelligence that will keep baby safe and allow the parents muchneeded rest. I worked with Harvey Karp to design the Snoo so that it fits perfectly into your home, with natural materials and beautiful lines.” Snoo Smart Sleeper: $1,160 at Happiest Baby
Always on Time
Movado“I wanted to build the next generation of Movado’s iconic 20th-century modern watch. The entire dial is made of a singular machined metal — it’s maximum simplicity achieved with sculptural methods.” “Movado Edge” watch: $495 at Movado
