When designers do their jobs poorly, you can't help noticing. When they do their jobs well, it often takes a minute to register just because it seems so natural and sensible.
But the folks who build our world are looking out for us. They don't set out to do bad jobs intentionally — who does? — but when they get it right, they deserve some praise.
So let's give a shout-out to the designers who are trying to get us to enjoy life more.
Senior citizens can tap a card here to get more time on the countdown when crossing the street.
It's not only educational, but also has to be handy when the escalator needs maintenance.
A lot of love, and no small amount of creativity, went into making those panels line up just right.
The globe scorches a line into a log while the sun is shining — looks like this area gets plenty of natural light.
Yeah, these have been around for a long time, but I don't appreciate them any less for it.
Apparently there's a small counter upstairs, and the kitchen uses this track to send food up to it.
I doubt the original architect behind this wonderful Art Deco building ever thought it would be a McDonald's, but that doesn't make this less cool.
Not only a cookie holder, but a cookie warmer. Mmmm.
Or, if you prefer, it's coffee squared. And here I thought the grounds were only good for composting!
Handfuls of them are served with each sandwich as a crunchy, colorful side.
And the sink is offset, so you don't have to straddle the bowl to wash your hands.
It's both genius marketing and useful, because peanut butter and chocolate beats every other candy hands-down.
They're not fancy by any means, but they're inexpensive, easy to replace, and recyclable, so that's something.
It looks pretty soothing to have some fresh greenery there, and as long as it doesn't obstruct your vision, it might be just the thing to reduce a bit of road rage.
And cats are going to use their balconies. How can you not love these?
Its low profile means it's less likely to get damaged or stolen, with a bonus of looking cool.
Because ice isn't always noticeable, it's always good to have a reminder to be careful in slip-and-fall season.
The rearview mirrors by the doors help prevent passengers from opening doors into passing bikes or pedestrians.
There are mesh bags you can put your dry clothing in while you change. How handy!
Shoppers looking at the display can read the name properly reflected in the window and know where to go when their stomachs rumble.
And it's beautiful in any season, so this is a wonderful addition.
I mean, you're going to spend some time standing there deciding what you want to eat, you might as well keep the cold air inside.
So, at a glance, it looks like the painted-on lamps actually work.
