Good design is everywhere these days. Great design—the objects, places and ideas that fuse functionality and aesthetics and then push the boundaries a step further to capture the imagination—is more elusive. Take a look at the standouts.

PACKAGING

SEI Water

dek

Sei Water

Sleek portability and high design aren't usually found in bottled water. But SEI's flask, left, inspired by military canteens—with no label impeding the view of the Catskills springwater inside—is a compact alternative to round bottles for carrying in a pocket or bag.

Next Omop