Absolutely exclusive SpaceOne x Perpétuel Edition Green Titanium Jumping Hour Watch is now extremely rare

Some watches are designed for simplicity, others for complexity, then there is this third breed – a prerogative largely of the likes of MB&F and Urwerk – which is designed for those, ready for lift-off to live amid the extraterrestrial. As the headline reads, it’s not the obvious creators, rather a collaboration between SpaceOne and Perpétuel Gallery which reimagines this jumping hour watch in an exemplary blend of futurism and contemporary horology.

The resulting SpaceOne x Perpetuel Edition in special green color is an enduring haute horology piece resembling a space-ready watch even the aliens would envy. Under the shadow of this overstatement is a watch that’s anything but traditional. What’s in it, let’s check out in detail below.

Designer: SpaceOne x Perpétuel

Ready for lift-off!

The SpaceOne x Perpetuel Gallery Jump Hour is provided in a robust grade-5 titanium casing featuring the striking Perpétuel Green color. It comes paired with a matching DELUGS rubber strap and features orange Eastern Arabic digits printed on pair of plain black discs that allow minutes and hours to leap into the sapphire cockpit on the dial.

With a distinct, UFO-like shape and crown resembling a rocket nozzle, the watch is befitting a wrist ready to take off on a shuttle flight. Recently in haute horology, there has been a persistent rise in watches with unorthodox layouts: space-inspired complications have become really common and this one is another entrant.

The design in beyond

Despite the form factor, the SpaceOne x Perpetuel Edition is pretty sleek yet formidable. It is a limited edition release, which has gone out faster than candies on the shelf. In its construction and functionality, ‘the watch is as tough as a spaceship.’ It measures 42 mm x 51.67 mm and is only 12 mm thick.

The SpaceOne x Perpetuel Edition is powered by Soprod P024 automatic movement which one can gawk at through the visible caseback. The movement provides 38 hours of power reserve and beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour.

A lost race

This watch that wins over with its unique shape has received an overwhelming response. It was Limited to only 25 examples at launch and thanks to the Perpetuel makeover of this SpaceOne watch, it is already sold out in under five days from its release on October 10.

If you’re reading this and thought you were in the race, you probably have lost your chance to get hands on a SpaceOne x Perpetuel Edition until maybe some collector, who has recently purchased the AED 13,000 (approximately $3,500) watch, is willing to part with it-of course at a premium!

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NUIO Flow Keyboard Will Blow Your Mind: Forget Everything You Knew About Typing!

NUIO has launched a new vision for keyboards and peripherals, putting human comfort at the core of every design. Founded by Tom Wilson, a former Product Design Executive at Apple, and Greg Wilson, a former digital marketing leader at Digitas, NUIO is transforming ergonomic peripherals. Forget what you know about keyboards—the old designs are outdated. The Flow Keyboard reshapes the typing experience. It’s a reinvention designed to change how we interact with technology, focusing on comfort and usability. NUIO didn’t just update an old design; they started from scratch to create a tool that works with the natural movements of our hands and minds. This makes you wonder why all keyboards aren’t designed this way. Built around the human form, it breaks free from the conventions that have limited productivity for decades.

Designer: NUIO

The split design is the first indication that NUIO plays by different rules, literally tearing apart old conventions. Traditional keyboards force our hands into unnatural positions, often resulting in discomfort or even injury over time. By splitting the keyboard into two halves, NUIO allows users to set the layout as wide or narrow as they want, tailoring it to their individual body type. Each half arcs gently in a 3-D radial wave that contours perfectly to the natural positioning of the hands. This focuses on creating a natural design that integrates seamlessly into your workflow.

Immersive Flow Through Design

The 3-D wave shape changes the dynamics of typing entirely. Unlike flat keyboards, which demand that your fingers reach out and adjust constantly, this design brings every key to your fingertips, almost like the keyboard knows where your fingers will land next. The entire process becomes smoother—you don’t think about typing, you think, and the keyboard flows with you. It’s an experience similar to an artist using the perfect brush, where the tool becomes an extension of their creativity. This is what NUIO means by “finding your flow.” NUIO’s design aims to potentially transform the typing experience, making it feel seamless and natural.

The concave keycaps are another masterstroke. NUIO has given each key a gentle dip, which fits the natural curve of your fingertips and provides a feeling of certainty with every press. When you strike a key, it feels definitive, eliminating the ambiguity that often comes with traditional, flatter keycaps. These aren’t keys—they’re extensions of your thoughts, finely tuned to transmit intention into action without hesitation.

Bold Design Statements and Apple Ecosystem Integration

NUIO understands that form is just as important as function. It is designed to complement the Apple ecosystem perfectly. The backlit keys and the seven premium color combinations offer aesthetic appeal; they speak to a personalized experience, a kind of ownership over the tool that users engage with daily.

Whether choosing a sleek black design or a more colorful option, the keyboard is designed to fit into any space and enhance its visual appeal. It doesn’t just sit on the desk; it complements and elevates the entire workspace, adding an essential touch of personal style.

Accessories That Click—Literally and Figuratively

The NUIO Flow System, including the magnetic Deskpad, trackpad, and wristpads, is built to ensure seamless integration. The magnetic Deskpad serves as an extension of the Flow Keyboard, creating an ecosystem where each component—whether the keyboard halves, wristpads, or edge-to-edge glass trackpad—snaps into the ideal position.

This snapping mechanism eliminates fuss, prevents shifting, and saves time—resulting in an elegantly organized workspace that adapts to users rather than forcing adaptation. Each element has a designated place, and every movement is deliberate and precise.

Wristpads That Disappear Into the Experience

Comfort is a key aspect of the NUIO experience, most notably seen in the Wristpads. Made from an innovative cushioning material, these wristpads provide support while remaining unobtrusive.

They’re designed to be so comfortable that they “disappear” during use, allowing focus and productivity to flourish. This level of consideration elevates NUIO’s approach beyond mere ergonomics—ensuring that tools are as invisible as possible, with only the work left in focus.

Built For Today, Ready for Tomorrow

NUIO’s Flow Keyboard and its accompanying peripherals are designed for creative professionals, focusing on high-quality materials and flexible configurations. The product suite, which begins shipping on December 1st at a starting price of $399, is available for pre-order today at HelloNUIO.com. Every detail, down to the USB-C charging and Bluetooth multi-device pairing, is about maximizing flexibility. Whether switching between devices or shifting from a desk to a coffee shop, the Flow Keyboard is a tool that transforms with users. It’s an entirely new kind of typing experience; it’s the centerpiece of a modular productivity system that bends to their will. The adjustable stands make sure the keyboard can be tented or tilted for optimal comfort, while the mechanical click trackpad adds familiar tactile feedback that feels right.

The post NUIO Flow Keyboard Will Blow Your Mind: Forget Everything You Knew About Typing! first appeared on Yanko Design.

Gustaf Westman hosts Brooklyn pop-up modeled on "museum experience"

Gustaf Westman

Swedish designer Gustaf Westman displayed existing and new objects including a colourful “puzzle” shelf during a three-day pop-up event in New York City.

Named Gustaf Westman in New York, the show was located in an industrial storefront in Williamsburg and displayed the designer’s colourful objects and furniture on a meandering pink and orange pathway.

Gustaf Westman
Swedish designer Gustaf Westman held a New York City pop-up that gave nod to a museum experience

Small descriptions were placed on the ground in front of the objects, as “a nod to a museum experience”, while printed pamphlets similar to museum guides were available to visitors.

“The decision was very organic,” Westman told Dezeen. “When we came here, it was like a gallery space. It’s also a bit ironic, because I’ve only been doing this for four years and I’m not really ready to do a museum.”

A brightly coloured pathway weaved through the space, which was divided by Westman’s screens and a larger display wall towards the front.

Among the new objects displayed was Puzzle Shelf, a shelving unit made of interlocking, stackable rectangular forms that conclude in puzzle-shaped feet. Westman noted that the shelf is 3D-printed and processed to resemble the material qualities of his other ceramic and metal objects.

“I have an obsession with trying to test all different materials and trying to make them look the same,” said Westman. “Even if I work with wood or ceramics or glass, I want to keep the same finish, so [3D printing] is the next step.”

The shelf was made in a host of bright colours such as red, pink, cream, and dark blue.

Gustaf Westman
Existing and new objects from the designer were displayed

The remaining space was filled with pedestals and shelving outfitted with existing glassware and objects such as a spiralling book stand and flower-shaped mirrors, along with furniture such as a coffee table that pinches wine glasses in place.

The designer previously used nylon tights to create “terrazzo-like” tables and displayed his objects during Day Two from Stockholm Design Week 2024.

The photography is by Kate Fatseas unless otherwise stated

Gustaf Westman in New York was on show at 25 Fillmore Place, Brooklyn from 10-13 October. For more events, exhibitions and talks in architecture and design visit the Dezeen Events Guide.

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Embrace Calm With “Quietude”: HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ 2025 Color of the Year

The 2025 Color Collection of the Year from HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams is “Naturally Refined,” with Quietude (HGSW6212) named the Color of the Year. The “Naturally Refined” palette offers a luxurious and cozy feel through 10 versatile shades that can be mixed and matched to create a harmonious design scheme within the interiors.

Designer: Sherwin-Williams

What is HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams?

Introduced in 2011, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams merges HGTV’s design acumen with the renowned paint quality of Sherwin-Williams, which was established in 1866 and is based in Cleveland, Ohio. Sherwin-Williams is a leading name in the global paint and coatings industry while HGTV is known for its home design expertise, and collaborates to offer a range of premium paints and curated Color Collections for a harmonious home aesthetic. This exclusive collection is available solely at Lowe’s locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.

The “Naturally Refined” collection, with its 2025 Color of the Year “Quietude,” delivers a calming sage green and timeless elegance that is perfect for creating a tranquil atmosphere.

The different colors in the “Naturally Reined” collection include:

1. Snowbound (HGSW7004)

Snowbound is a warm, sophisticated white, that enhances natural light and works well on walls and ceilings. It is a versatile color that complements bold and subtle accents and creates a balanced atmosphere in any space.

2. Quietude (HGSW6212)

Quietude, a soft green with subtle blue undertones, is ideal for creating a tranquil and soothing environment. It can be used to enhance relaxation or achieve a calming effect. This shade works well on accent walls, as well as in textiles and decor.

3. Convivial Yellow (HGSW6393)

Convivial Yellow is a pale yellow hue with warm undertones, which adds a bright and welcoming touch to your home. Perfect for kitchens, breakfast areas, and living spaces, it infuses warmth into the common areas and children’s rooms.

4. Spiced Cider (HGSW7702)

Spiced Cider is a rust-inspired hue that adds warmth and depth to home decor. It can be used on accent walls, furniture, or textiles to create a cozy atmosphere and pairs well with neutral tones for a balanced look in living areas, dining rooms, and home offices.

5. Nomadic Desert (HGSW6107)

Nomadic Desert is a warm tan hue with blushed undertones that create a cozy atmosphere. It can be used on the walls in living rooms and bedrooms, providing a warm backdrop that complements furniture and textiles

6. Stucco (HGSW7569)

Stucco, with its elegant linen-like neutrality, creates a polished look on the walls throughout your home. This shade can be used to enhance architectural elements such as trim and molding while adding a classic touch to both furniture and textiles.

7. Delft (HGSW9134)

Delft is a mid-tone blue with a neutral undertone, making it an interesting choice for both traditional and contemporary interiors. It works well on accent walls and harmonizes with warm and cool hues, making it ideal for furniture, upholstery, and accessories.

8. Rocky River (HGSW6215)

Rocky River integrates a deep green blend of moss and emerald, creating a dramatic and calming effect when used on accent walls. This color elevates the look of the furniture and textiles, adding a natural, elegant touch to your decor.

9. Sequin (HGSW6394)

Sequin adds a warm, uplifting glow with its goldenrod undertones to accent walls, living cum dining areas, and kitchens, and creates a cheerful environment in children’s rooms.

10. Nutshell (HGSW6040)

Nutshell is a warm chocolate brown color that, enhances spaces with its cozy tone when used on accent walls, furniture, and flooring. Additionally, it pairs well with light hues for a balanced aesthetic and is suitable for trims and moldings.

Introducing Quietude (HGSW6212) as the 2025 Color of the Year

Quietude combines a cool sage green with a touch of blue to craft a soothing and serene space. Suitable for indoor and outdoor areas, its timeless charm inspires us to embrace a slower lifestyle and appreciate the simple moments in life.

Explore some cutting-edge products that embody the essence of Quietude.

• Earphones cum Earrings

Designers: Rick Kim & Milmul Studio

The YoonJy Earphones blend style and functionality by integrating earphones with jewelry. Featuring a sleek metal hoop that doubles as an earring, these earphones merge minimalistic design with a harmonious color scheme, allowing users to enjoy both accessories without compromise.

• Travel Suitcases

Designer: Monos

For dedicated travelers, Mono offers top-notch suitcases inspired by the Japanese concept of ‘Mono no aware.’ Their luggage combines style and functionality, featuring designs like the cupcake-inspired Monos x Magnolia Bakery and the sophisticated Terrazzo. Constructed with aerospace-grade polycarbonate and 360° spinner wheels, Monos suitcases include anti-microbial, recycled polyester linings, TSA-approved locks, and adjustable handles. The Carry-On Pro models add a fold-out compartment for convenient storage of electronics and essentials.

• Eco-Friendly Furniture

Designer: Philippe Starck and Kartell (and A.I.)

The A.I. Collection by Kartell and Philippe Starck combines artificial intelligence with design to produce eco-friendly furniture in earthy colors. The line features the versatile A.I. Lounge, the regal H.H.H Her Highest Highness chair, and the minimalist A.I. Console, all optimized for sustainability and reduced waste through A.I.-driven prototyping and planning.

• Mobile Phones

Designer: HONOR

At MWC 2024, HONOR unveiled the Magic6 Pro smartphone and the MagicBook Pro 16 AI PC. The Magic6 Pro features advanced AI-driven photography with a 180MP Telephoto Camera, a 50MP Ultra-Wide Camera, and a variable aperture 50MP main camera. It integrates a 6.8-inch LTPO Eye Comfort Display, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a long-lasting Silicon-carbon Battery with rapid charging. The MagicBook Pro 16 enhances cross-OS compatibility with AI.

• Headphones

Designer: Fairphone

The Fairbuds XL wireless headphones from Fairphone feature a modular design that allows users to replace parts for extended use. They offer active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and up to 30 hours of playback with advanced 40 mm dynamic drivers for high-quality sound. Made from recycled materials, including vegan cushions, they come in Green or Black and support both wired and wireless connections.

• Industrial Furniture

Designer: Lockengloet

Lockengeloet, a Hamburg-based studio, transforms discarded oil barrels into unique, urban-industrial furniture. Sourced from the Port of Hamburg and never used for oil, these barrels are upcycled into coffee tables, nightstands, and minibars, with scrap metal repurposed into wall clocks. The studio uses recycled materials for about 80% of its products and operates with renewable energy from Greenpeace.

• Recycled Materials

Designer: POLIMAIR

The Beluga Chair, designed by Arthur Gaudenz and crafted from recycled French fishing nets, is a groundbreaking sustainable furniture piece. Its mono-material design eliminates the need for additional components, reducing waste and CO2 emissions.

• Accessories

Click Here to Buy Now: Jewel Vase Mirror Stand ($59)

This versatile mirror serves as both an accessory stand and a vase, adding natural beauty to your space. Its minimalist, polyhedron design enhances any item placed before it, from a single flower to other small treasures, and pouring water into the vase becomes a calming ritual. Crafted from durable bioplastic with a significant amount of rice husks, this unique piece brings elegance and eco-friendly charm to any desk, table, or shelf.

In addition, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams now offers an easier way to choose paint colors through a partnership with Palazzo, an AI visualization tool co-founded by Venus Williams. All you need to do is upload a photo to see how colors from the 2025 Color Collection of the Year look in your space.

The post Embrace Calm With “Quietude”: HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ 2025 Color of the Year first appeared on Yanko Design.

Dezeen Debate features Cornish courtyard home that "exudes simplicity"

Hugh Strange Architects Cornwall home

The latest edition of our Dezeen Debate newsletter features a lime-render home in Cornwall by Hugh Strange Architects. Subscribe to Dezeen Debate now.

London studio Hugh Strange Architects designed this house in Cornwall that draws inspiration from the traditional farmsteads of England’s West Country.

The dwelling captured readers’ attention, with one describing it as “beautiful, simple, elegant, and understated”. Another echoed this sentiment, appreciating how the house “exudes simplicity”.

Robotaxi by Tesla
Tesla unveiled its new driverless Robotaxi this week

Other stories in this week’s newsletter that fired up the comments section included Elon Musk’s highly anticipated driverless Robotaxi, Renzo Piano Building Workshop’s completion of the “big cube” in Paddington and a wood-clad acute-care facility by architecture studio Herzog & de Meuron.

Dezeen Debate

Dezeen Debate is sent every Tuesday and features a selection of the best reader comments and most talked-about stories. Read the latest edition of Dezeen Debate or subscribe here.

You can also subscribe to our other newsletters; Dezeen Agenda is sent every Tuesday containing a selection of the most important news highlights from the week, Dezeen Daily is our daily bulletin that contains every story published in the preceding 24 hours and Dezeen In Depth is sent on the last Friday of every month and delves deeper into the major stories shaping architecture and design.

The post Dezeen Debate features Cornish courtyard home that “exudes simplicity” appeared first on Dezeen.

American University in Dubai spotlights seven urban design projects

A visualisation of lake beside white buildings and green trees. Beside it are grey 3D visualisations against a beige backdrop.

Dezeen School Shows: a city that integrates agriculture through a self-sufficient ecosystem is included in Dezeen’s latest school show by students at the American University in Dubai.
Also included is an analysis framework which incorporates parametric design and housing typologies including villas and apartments.


American University in Dubai

Institution: American University in Dubai
School: Master of Urban Design and Digital Environments (MUDDE), School of Architecture, Art and Design
Course: Urban Design Studio II, Digital Techniques for Urban Design and Geographic Information Systems

School statement:

“The works presented here showcase examples of student projects from three courses within the Master of Urban Design and Digital Environments (MUDDE) program.

“Three projects were selected from the course Urban Design Studio II, taught by Dr Maryam Shafiei, where students were tasked with developing a masterplan for a new neighbourhood in Studio City, Dubai.

“Guided by insights from guests and juries from the urban design industry, students gained a profound understanding of the complex relationships between urban form, the environment and society within the context of designing a new urban neighbourhood.

“Three projects were chosen from the course Digital Techniques for Urban Design, also taught by Dr Maryam Shafiei.

“These projects highlight students’ advanced use of digital techniques in overlaying urban spatial data for detailed analysis.

“They also demonstrate how students employed parametric modelling and generative design for rapid design iterations and augmented reality to visualise and test their designs.

“The selected project from the course Geographic Information Systems, delivered by Dr Hadeel El Naggar, showcases students’ advanced skills in integrating diverse datasets to support informed decision-making.

“This knowledge allows students to optimise spatial organisation, enhance transportation systems and promotes sustainable growth, contributing to more efficient and liveable urban environments.”


A digital illustration of a figure amongst a green field with abstract buildings on it, with a blue sky above.

Agropolis by Fareen Shafi

“Agropolis envisions a strong residential neighbourhood while recognising agriculture as a vital component of urban expansion.

“The mission is to empower individuals to cultivate sustainable, healthy habits, integrating sustainable agricultural practices with residential spaces, establishing a self-sufficient ecosystem within a city.

“In this concept, the future is imagined in which inhabitants are not only in harmony with nature but also actively engaged in its cultivation, thus contributing to a regenerative, closed-loop system that reduces environmental footprints and minimises waste.

“The vision extends beyond mere infrastructure; it seeks to cultivate a mindset of respect for nature and a commitment to preserving resources for future generations.

“Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, Agropolis strives to set a new standard for sustainable urban development, inspiring communities to embrace a greener, healthier way of living.”

Student: Fareen Shafi
Course: UDDE 604 – Urban Design Studio II
Tutor: Maryam Shafiei
Email: fareen.shafi[at]mymail.aud.edu


A digital map illustration in tones of blue, red and yellow with black text, with a white backdrop.

Sustainable Gardens by Abdullah Shakir

“This neighbourhood design envisions enhancing the flow of human activity through diverse architectural typologies, each offering unique sensory experiences and fostering a deep connection with nature.

“At the heart of the project is a vibrant hub, which integrates a variety of functions, including retail outlets, cafes, co-working spaces and recreational areas, all designed to encourage social interaction and community engagement.

“A key feature of the project is its range of housing typologies, encompassing townhouses, apartments and three distinct villa designs, to meet the varying needs and preferences of residents.

“Sustainability is embedded in the design through the inclusion of a green village, where greenhouses and fresh farm retail spaces offer residents easy access to locally grown products.

“Overall, the design aims to create a well-organised, human-centred urban environment that harmonises with the natural landscape of Dubai Studio City, prioritising sustainability, community and a high quality of life.”

Student: Abdullah Shakir
Course: UDDE 604 – Urban Design Studio II
Tutor: Maryam Shafiei
Email: abdullah.shakirusain[at]mymail.aud.edu


A visualisation of lake beside white buildings and green trees. Beside it are grey 3D visualisations against a beige backdrop.

Layers of Terra by Salma Safi

“Layers of Terra is a residential neighbourhood where disordered layers of land, sand and water are organised by a cohesive grid system.

“The concept revitalises the synergy between people and their environment, blending contemporary influences with the rich traditional values of the UAE.

“The vision for the Layers of Terra, an expandable neighbourhood, is to seamlessly integrate the diverse layers, while dynamically growing to meet the rising urban density, ensuring it evolves in tandem with the city’s expanding needs.

“The concept envisions UAE neighbourhoods thriving as vital, adaptable cells, with modular residential units that effectively address the challenges of increased urban density.

“These neighbourhoods will seamlessly connect with existing built zones, fostering continual growth and adaptability.”

Student: Salma Safi
Course: UDDE 604 – Urban Design Studio II
Tutor: Maryam Shafiei
Email: salma.safi[at]mymail.aud.edu


A series of black and white digital maps with red and black text accompanying them.

Synergising Urban Data and AR Visualisation by Salma Safi, Fareen Shafi and Raghad Hassan

“The aim of this project is to establish a digital platform for integrating data within the AUD campus as a small urban cluster in Dubai.

“This integration of urban planning, architecture and environmental data is essential for developing sustainable and efficient urban spaces.

“Spatial data from several open sources were integrated inside grasshopper, developing a comprehensive source for spatial modelling and urban analysis, with the selected urban cluster analysed using Isovist, shadow, solar hours and visibility analysis.

“In another phase of the project, we applied our parametric design skills to create an innovative piece of urban furniture for the campus, adhering to specific size constraints.

“Six different urban structures were designed, focusing on creativity, aesthetics, functionality and material choice, visualised using augmented reality technology.”

Students: Salma Safi, Fareen Shafi and Raghad Hassan
Course: UDDE603 – Digital Techniques for Urban Design
Tutor: Maryam Shafiei
Emails: salma.safi[at]mymail.aud.edu, fareen.shafi[at]mymail.aud.edu and raghad.hassan[at]mymail.aud.edu


A three-dimensional visualisation of a group of buildings in tones of pink, orange and yellow, beside a series of images of a green space with a brown installation on it.

Data x Design x AR by Abdullah Shakir and Fahad Almusalam

“This project aimed to develop a comprehensive urban analysis framework by leveraging advanced technologies.

“By integrating open-source spatial and GIS data, we constructed a detailed 3D model of the study site, which served as the foundation for in-depth urban analysis.

“Parametric design, a method that supports iterative design and optimisation, was then applied to create flexible and adaptable design prototypes for the studied area.

“To bridge the gap between the virtual and physical worlds, we utilised augmented reality to test and visualise our designs.

“Through this project, we aimed to provide valuable insights into urban development challenges and opportunities in Dubai, contributing to more sustainable, efficient and creative design.”

Students: Abdullah Shakir and Fahad Almusalam
Course: UDDE603 – Digital Techniques for Urban Design
Tutor: Maryam Shafiei
Emails: abdullah.shakirusain[at]mymail.aud.edu and fahad.almusalam[at]mymail.aud.edu


A series of graphs in tones of grey and red.

Generative Design for an Urban Cluster by Salma Safi, Fareen Shafi and Raghad Hassan

“In this collaborative project, we explored the use of generative design for rapid form-finding and optimisation within a compact urban residential cluster.

“Generative design served as a transformative tool, streamlining the process of quickly iterating through multiple design options.

“We then integrated generative algorithms with urban analysis parameters such as sunlight, wind and radiation analysis to optimise forms from the pool of iterations.

“This included location and orientation optimisation for solar radiation, roof shape optimisation and shadow and shading analysis.

“The generative tools enabled iterative solutions that enhance energy efficiency while balancing environmental performance with aesthetic and functional design.”

Students: Salma Safi, Fareen Shafi and Raghad Hassan
Course: UDDE603 – Digital Techniques for Urban Design
Tutor: Maryam Shafiei
Emails: salma.safi[at]mymail.aud.edu, fareen.shafi[at]mymail.aud.edu and raghad.hassan[at]mymail.aud.edu


A visualisation of a map in tones of green, grey and black.

Analysing Dubai Canal Surroundings Using GIS by Salma Safi

“This project uses ArcGIS, a Geographic Information System tool in urban design for the mapping, analysis and visualisation of spatial data that supports informed decision-making to optimise spatial organisation, enhance transportation systems and promote sustainable growth.

“In the case of the Dubai Water Canal area, GIS data, including vector-based accessibility, land use maps, attribute tables and raster data analysis such as NDBI, NDVI and MNDWI, were employed to identify key factors influencing urban development.

“This comprehensive analysis informed a proposal for a more integrated neighbourhood design and provided valuable insights for future urban improvements.

“Applications include the optimisation of public spaces, enhancement of transportation networks, improvements in functional efficiency and aesthetic appeal, refinement of proximity and walkability to essential facilities and the promotion of sustainable growth.

“The findings from this analysis led to conclusions and recommendations that support the creation of more efficient, liveable and well-connected urban environments.”

Student: Salma Safi
Course: UDDE608 – Geographic Information Systems
Tutor: Hadeel El Naggar
Email: salma.safi[at]mymail.aud.edu

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and the American University in Dubai. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

The post American University in Dubai spotlights seven urban design projects appeared first on Dezeen.

The New iPad Mini: Powerful Features that Make Everyday Life Easier

Apple’s latest iPad mini packs powerful features into a compact design, making it practical for everyday use. Powered by the A17 Pro chip and paired with features like Apple Intelligence and Apple Pencil Pro, the new iPad mini is a versatile companion, helping make daily tasks easier and more efficient.

Designer: Apple

A17 Pro Chip: More Power for What Matters

The heart of the new iPad mini is the A17 Pro chip. The A17 Pro chip provides a significant performance boost for demanding tasks, with a faster CPU, GPU, and a Neural Engine that’s twice as fast as the previous version. For everyday users, this means smoother multitasking, faster app launches, and a highly responsive experience. The 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU make this iPad mini perfect for diving into demanding apps, editing photos, exploring augmented reality, or even playing graphics-heavy games like Zenless Zone Zero.

This enhanced power directly translates to better performance in everyday tasks. From students tackling digital homework to professionals on the go, the speed and fluidity make a difference. You can switch between multiple apps without lag, take notes while streaming a lecture, or enjoy immersive gaming when ready to unwind. The A17 Pro chip ensures you won’t have to compromise between portability and power.

Apple Intelligence: A Smarter Way to Work and Play

With the A17 Pro chip, the new iPad mini delivers seamless support for Apple Intelligence, deeply integrated into iPadOS 18. Apple Intelligence uses Apple silicon and advanced generative models to create, understand, and simplify everyday tasks. Many of these features run entirely on the device, ensuring privacy while delivering powerful functionality.

Apple Intelligence offers Writing Tools that help users refine their text—rewriting, proofreading, or summarizing—in any app, from Notes to Mail to Pages. This saves time for students, professionals, and anyone who writes on the go. Siri is also enhanced with Apple Intelligence, making interacting more flexible and easier. You can type instead of speak, stumble over words without losing context, and get answers faster with improved language understanding.

In Photos, the Memories feature allows users to generate movies simply by typing a description, and the new Clean Up tool helps remove distracting elements from images without impacting the subject. Additional Apple Intelligence features, like Image Playground and Image Wand, make creating playful images or refining sketches quick and easy. Even emojis get an upgrade, allowing users to create custom Genmoji with just a description or a photo.

Apple Intelligence will also expand to offer more experiences in the coming months, including integrated ChatGPT for document understanding, image analysis, and more—all while maintaining privacy. With the capability to run tasks on-device or scale them through Apple’s dedicated servers, the new iPad mini ensures that every interaction feels smooth, secure, and tailored to the user.

Apple Intelligence makes the iPad mini a more convenient and personal companion. Many features are available on-device, which prioritizes privacy without compromising usefulness. The new Clean Up tool in Photos, for example, lets you easily remove distracting objects from your images without the need for internet connectivity or external apps.

Apple Pencil Pro: Creativity and Productivity on the Go

One of the critical features of the new iPad mini is its support for Apple Pencil Pro. It turns the iPad mini into a versatile workspace for sketching ideas, annotating documents, or taking notes. Sensing squeezes, offering customizable controls, and providing tactile feedback, the Apple Pencil Pro makes drawing or note-taking feel more natural. These features are practical for anyone who values the ability to jot down ideas or interact with documents in a personal, hands-on way.

Apple Pencil Pro attaches magnetically, making it easy to carry without worrying about losing it. For everyday users, this means they can effortlessly transition from taking handwritten notes in meetings to using more advanced tools like Image Wand, which transforms rough sketches into polished images—a valuable addition for creatives and students alike.

Better Connectivity, Greater Freedom

The latest iPad mini also sees upgrades in connectivity. With Wi-Fi 6E support, you’ll experience faster internet speeds, making it easier to work from anywhere. This makes video calls, gaming, and cloud backups faster and smoother at a coffee shop or while traveling. For those who want cellular connectivity, including 5G and eSIM support allows you to connect without the hassle of physical SIM cards, making it simple to stay online, even without Wi-Fi.

The faster USB-C port—which offers data transfers at up to 10Gbps—is a notable improvement for anyone moving large files. Importing photos, transferring videos, or backing up content is now quicker and essential for photographers and anyone who often works with media files.

A Truly Portable Experience

Apple has designed the iPad mini to be a true portable powerhouse. The 8.3-inch Liquid Retina display creates a vibrant viewing experience, perfect for catching up on your favorite show or working on a presentation. The lightweight design and all-day battery life make it easy to carry with you, ensuring it’s always ready when inspiration strikes or work calls. For people who use their devices on the move, the new iPad mini combines features that fit seamlessly into daily life. Its compact form provides power and versatility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking convenience and performance. The added features improve how we work, learn, and relax each day.

The post The New iPad Mini: Powerful Features that Make Everyday Life Easier first appeared on Yanko Design.

Designing People's Experiences for Mundane Tasks: Needed, or Contrived?

When I was at ID school in the early ’90s, they taught us “No one wants a toaster. What people want is toast.”

The times have definitely changed, if the success of this Vaaka device is any indication. It’s an analog scale designed to provide “a meditative exploration of the balance between coffee and life.”

It adds several steps to your coffeemaking process, I suppose to deliver a “curated” exercise in tactility. Here’s how you’re meant to use it:

To paraphrase Mitch Hedberg, I don’t need another step between me and coffee. But I am not the target market. This project has been successfully Kickstarted, and to me it suggests people enjoy experiencing rituals with objects, and/or they’re craving tactility, the manipulation of tools to achieve an aim. Which makes sense to me, given the digital nature of modern life.

That being the case, I can’t criticize the object directly. I think of objects like this not as a symptom of an ailing society, but as the antibodies that show up to reveal that there is an unseen ailment.

World's second Sphere set to be built in Abu Dhabi

Sphere Entertainment and Abu Dhabi‘s department of culture and tourism have announced that the second version of the dome-like Sphere venue will be built in the UAE.

According to the team, the venue in Abu Dhabi will “echo the scale” of the first Sphere in Las Vegas, which is 112 metres high and has a capacity of 20,000.

No architecture studio has been announced for the new development, however, stadium specialist Populous designed both the Las Vegas Sphere and a similar planned venue in London.

Vision “always included a global network of venues”

According to Sphere Entertainment, the Abu Dhabi Sphere would be the first in a series of venues that have a similar form to the Las Vegas building.

“The vision for Sphere has always included a global network of venues, and today’s announcement is a significant milestone toward that goal,” said Sphere Entertainment executive chairman James L Dolan.

“Sphere is redefining live entertainment and extending the reach of its transformative impact. We are proud to collaborate with DCT Abu Dhabi to develop Sphere in their city.”

No location or timeline announced

At present no exact location or timeline for construction have been revealed for the project. According to the team, the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism will pay Sphere Entertainment “a franchise initiation fee” for the right to build and operate the venue.

“Sphere Abu Dhabi will seamlessly integrate advanced technology with captivating storytelling, creating unforgettable memories for everyone who visits,” said DCT Abu Dhabi chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak.

“This partnership aligns with our Tourism Strategy 2030, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a vibrant hub for culture and innovation,” he continued.

“By embracing cutting-edge entertainment like Sphere, we’re not only elevating our global profile but also setting new standards in immersive experiences and cultural offerings.”

The announcement follows the Sphere Entertainment, formerly known as Madison Square Garden Entertainment, team withdrawing its plans to bring the spherical venue to London. The company withdrew its proposal for the venue earlier this year, slamming the planning process as “a political football between rival parties”.

Plans for a London venue were first revealed in 2018 and initially gained planning approval before being refused by London mayor Sadiq Khan. Following the controversy, we examined both sides of the debate in a feature asking if London needed the Sphere.

The main image shows a graphic on the Las Vegas Sphere.

The post World’s second Sphere set to be built in Abu Dhabi appeared first on Dezeen.

MAD "cracks open" facade of Denver residential building

Canyon in glass apartment building

International studio MAD Architects has unveiled the One River North apartment block in Denver, Colorado, which has a large, canyon-like opening breaking open its main facade.

Named One River North, the residential block in Denver’s northern RiNo neighbourhood was designed as a nod to geographic formations in the nearby Rocky Mountains.

One River North Denver
MAD Architects has unveiled the One River North apartment block in Denver

Located next to a major interstate and light rail line, the 15-storey block’s western facade has a curved facade clad in a glass curtain wall with a massive cut “cracking” the building open.

MAD Architects wanted the reference to natural rock formations to appear to be imposing itself on an otherwise typical residential facade.

Canyon in One River North apartment building
The middle of the building was opened up to reveal plaster, cave-like elements that resembled a canyon

“The canyon looks like a natural space cracking open a modern box,” MAD Architects principal Ma Yansong told Dezeen.

“In this vertical canyon, we’ve introduced gardens, outdoor spaces, and water features that connect all the indoor amenities, allowing residents and visitors to step outside and enjoy the spaces and views from multiple levels.”

Canyon in One River North Denver with skyline
It is located in Denver’s RiNo neighbourhood. Photo by Parrish Ruiz de Velasco

This “canyon” was created using textured plaster that protrudes from the glass curtain wall, at the lobby level and along the stepped public areas and along the base of the building, framing the lobby.

Starting from the sixth level, the canyon begins as a terrace with an outdoor staircase that runs to the ninth level, with glass-enclosed amenities spaces recessed behind the outdoor ones.

Canyon in glass apartment building nighttime terrace close up
It has an outdoor staircase that connects four levels

The outdoor staircase is meant to simulate the mountainous trails seen throughout the state of Colorado, with plantings at different levels derived from the different biomes based on altitudes.

At the beginning of the canyon, the vegetation introduced was from the foothills, while the rooftop features pine trees akin to the state’s alpine plateau.

Canyon in glass apartment building view from terrace
It has plantings that represent different biomes in the state

Also on the rooftop is a pool with a waterfall. MAD Architects project director Jon Kontuly said that this was meant to mimic erosion and is just one of the details, such as the aggregate heavy cement in the supporting columns.

“We wanted it to be all-enveloping,” Kontuly told Dezeen. “There were a lot of small design moves like that that were made just to heighten that experiential factor.”

“The landscape, the different smells, the different sounds, the water. We wanted to bring all that to the site”

Canyon in glass apartment building with rooftop pool
The rooftop has pine trees and a pool. Photo by Parrish Ruiz de Velasco

Public indoor areas such as the resident lounge also were clad in plaster, giving these spaces a cave-like effect.

Between the ninth floor and the rooftop, the areas within the crack were devoted to private balconies. All of the plantings were done in accordance with a wind and sun analysis so that the “micro-climates” throughout could thrive, according to Kontuly.

Canyon in glass apartment building at night
Highly reflective glass reflects the mountains to the west

Other details that reference the state’s environment include a massive boulder that was placed in the lobby, which required additional reinforcement for the ground-floor foundation slab.

Most of the attention was focused on the west-facing facade, as the back side of the building, which faces the city and the Great Plains beyond, is a mix of glass wall and opaque panelling. Kontuly noted that the colour of the panelling and its interaction with the glass resembles a “fractured rock”.

Canyon in glass apartment building ammenity interior
The cave-like textures feature in the interior

The glass on the west-facing side was also given a highly reflective coating, and at certain times of the day, it can reflect the mountains on the horizon.

The One River North block contains 187 rental units. The private spaces do not have the same organic plaster walls as the canyon area, but Kontuly said that details such as rich woods were applied to try and continue the natural references of the building into the apartments.

It is among a series of residential structures going up in the neighbourhood, which was until recently dedicated mostly to industrial use.

MAD Architects created the structure for developer The Max Collaborative.

One River North apartment building
Enclosed public areas are interspersed between the outdoor elements

MAD was founded in 2004 in Beijing and has offices in Los Angeles and Rome. It has completed dozens of high-profile projects including a bubble-like extension for a house in Japan.

Many of its in-progress projects include formal references to natural phenomena, such as the wave-like roof for the proposed Nanhai Art Center in Guangdong.

The photography is by Iwan Baan unless otherwise stated. 


Project credits:

Client: The MAX Collaborative
Architectural design: MAD Architects
Executive architect: Davis Partnership Architects
Contractor: Saunders Construction
Interior designer: The Interior Studio at Davis Partnership Architects
Structural engineer: Jirsa Hedrick
MEP engineer: ME Engineers
Landscape: Davis Partnership Architects
Civil consultant: Kimley-Horn

The post MAD “cracks open” facade of Denver residential building appeared first on Dezeen.