Heads Up Hammock was designed and developed by an Austin-based company.[/caption]

An Austin-based company launched a Kickstarter campaign May 11 to make a product for those who enjoy lounging outside.

Heads Up Hammock, 101 Colorado St., is ideal for camping trips, hiking, festivals, holidays, picnics and outdoor retreats, according to the company's website. The tiny hammock acts as a headrest to help avoid grass, sand or dirt in the user's hair.

The hammock is designed to provide head and neck support while lounging outside.[/caption]

If the $25,000 Kickstarter campaign goal is reached in the next 26 days, that will allow the company to develop three models of the Heads Up Hammock in seven different fabric designs. The products would become available for retail purchase.

The lightweight hammock for your head is supposed to provide an easier way for relaxing than packing bulky items, such as a rolled-up towel or pillow, according to company. The fabric is machine washabl, and certain models include built-in bluetooth speakers or a pouch slip for keys or wallets.

OTHER IMPACTS:

NOW OPEN—Colorado-based longboard shop BOARDLife opened May 8. The shop offers longboards and other skateboards along with paddle boards, cruisers and apparel to patrons of varying experience levels. Personalized longboards can be built in the BOARDlife shop, located at 1100 S. Lamar Blvd, Ste. 2130, within an hour. 800-975-8112.

NOW OPEN—Authentic Japanese food can be found on Daito. Chefs from Kitaku, Osaka helped open the restaurant, which debuted Jan. 27 at 2716 1/2 Guadalupe St. A variety of noodles, sushi, sashimi, tempura and Washoku dishes are available as well as beer, sake, champagne and wine. 512-474-7770.

NOW OPEN—WayForward, a nonprofit service organization serving the Austin area, launched April 20 and focuses on enriching the lives of people with intellectual disabilities including those on the Autism scale, Founder/Executive Director Susan Nelms said. 512-784-7916.

EXPANSIONS—A new patio bar opened April 3 at 2310 S. Lamar Blvd. behind Irie Bean Coffee Bar. SoLa Social Club has a tropical feel where patrons can choose from 14 draft beers or a variety of wine cocktails. East Side King is also serving up dining options at the outdoor venue. 512-326-4636.

RENOVATIONS—Hyatt Regency announced a $12 million renovation of its 448 guest rooms on May 11. The renovated guest rooms at 208 Barton Springs Road will be redesigned using inspiration from Austin's music scene and a color palette of earth tones. Renovations will be completed by the end of this year and follow a meeting and event space expansion costing $20 million. 512-477-1234.