It was first described to me, by a friend, as “a giant glazed donut” (the white version that is). Plus Minus Zero, the manufacturer, depicts “an image of a sparkling drop of water.” Whichever portrayal you prefer, the object is quite beautiful. But when you realize I’m speaking of a humidifier, both descriptions may seem unlikely. That being said, if anyone can make a traditionally unsightly and bulky monstrosity glamorous, it’s Fukasawa and Plus Minus Zero, the Japanese company turning everyday objects into art.

±0 Humidifier Ver.6. Designed by Naoto Fukasawa.

±0 Humidifier Ver.3 was introduced in 2003. Now, the company has introduced an even more compact option, ±0 Humidifier Ver.6. Both are great options for those of us living in small city apartments in dry climates – something I’ve been made painfully aware of since the heat has come on (oh dry winter air…). The original, Ver.3, is 12” across x 6”H – available in white, orange, light blue, pink, beige, brown, deep green, blue price. It is equipped with 110V electrical components and compatible with any regular US electrical outlet.  It has been re-designed to feature an 18-hour long humidification mode.

Ver.6, or Humidifier S (Aroma),”originating from the shape of the ±0 Humidifier Ver.3, a diameter of 16cm from the center has been retained, while the outside has been cut away to a cylindrical kind of shape.” Despite the reduced tank volume (from 2.4 to 0.5 liters), the humidifier still operates for up to 8 hours in long mode. ±0 Humidifier Ver.3 is available through Generate Design for a mere $389 – a bit more than your standard humidifier, but by now you’re well aware that good design doesn’t often come cheap (particularly when it’s made it into MoMA’s permanent collection).

Used to humidify a standard size room, the ±0 Humidifier can also create atmosphere and aroma through the use of essential oils. Simply put a few drops in the included aroma pot, place it in the center, and the aroma spreads with the steam.

Fukasawa’s glistening polycarbonate plastic masterpieces will look great (and fit) in any number of locations: from your bedroom to your office desk or the kitchen.  Since you can’t put a price on good health, it’s a purchase that can be well rationalized.