We live in a time when brain computer interfaces are no longer science fiction, and are advanced enough to actually decode and replicate our speech. Thankfully not all neuro-technologies are so invasive and terrifying. Take for instance how Varier Furniture has artfully mined brain data for a new design aesthetic.

Varier invited three children into its research laboratory and monitored their brainwaves using EEG(Electroencephalography) headsets. The children played games, used software and engaged in theirfavourite hobbies while wearing their headsets. The mind-data gathered by the EEG headsets wasthen inputted into generative design software. The program created patterns based on the brainscanning possible through EEG, which were subsequently printed onto a range of posture enhancingchairs (the Variable balans).

EEG is a type of neurotechnology which can tell you when you are relaxed, concentrating, happyand angry, but beyond this the resolution of the data becomes less robust. We think it's great thatVariers have turned this weakness into a strength. Rather than reading our minds they're using a braincomputer interface to enhance a product that helps us concentrate – a welcome addition in an ageof digital-distraction. And hats off to Varier, it's refreshing when neurotechnologists rememberthat we are more than just the sum of our brainwaves.