This innovative 6-in-1 cable is the one charging and data cable to rule them all

It’s easy to underestimate how much time we lose each day looking for the things we need, whether it’s our glasses, writing instruments, or charging cables. All those little pockets of time add up, costing us precious moments and making us miss important opportunities. Making matters worse is how we seem to need two or more cables for different devices that use different technologies, and we end up losing even more time trying to untangle them from each other. You’d think that at this point in time, someone would have thought of a better solution that meets all of those needs. Fortunately, someone finally did, and now you can enjoy a hassle-free digital life with a single cable that not only replaces six cables but can also hang nicely on your keychain.

Designer: Jia Jun Teh (Alex)

Click Here to Buy Now: $29 $40 (21% off). Hurry, for a limited time only! Raised over $200,000.

Although it would seem that our world is slowly moving towards a universal USB-C connector, it’s moving very slowly to the point that we now have to contend with four different connectors rather than just three. That’s not even considering how there are different kinds of USB standards with different charging and data transfer speeds, and you’re pretty much cornered to bring a matching cable for each of your devices. Admittedly, there have been attempts to have a single cable that can “switch heads” to fit any device, but their implementations leave plenty to be desired.

Whether it’s a MacBook that uses USB-C, an iPhone with Lightning, or a Kindle with Micro-USB, Zeus-X Go has it all.

With Zeus-X Go Keychain, carry the right cable for every device, always.

Enter the Zeus-X Go Ultra, which, like its namesake, is a god among charging cables. Its innovative swiveling and rotating mechanism lets you easily change the connector type to mix and match what you need, whether it’s USB-C, Apple Lightning, or old-school micro-USB. It practically replaces six cables of different combinations, so you need to bring only one and be confident that you can connect any of your devices to any charger or computer in a snap. You can even connect one phone to another to share your phone’s battery in an emergency.

Most adapters obstruct your hand or the charging port.

Most 2-in-1 Lightning/Micro Adapters tend to be loose or even damage your charging port.

What makes the Zeus-X Go Ultra different from the hydra-like designs of the past is that the adapters don’t take up more space than normal cables, making sure they can fit even in the narrowest of charging ports without connectors dangling off to the side. At the same time, the adapters lock securely in place, so you don’t have to worry about loose connections and falling devices.

180° swivel mechanism & 360° rotatable.

The Zeus-X Go Ultra isn’t just a 6-in-1 cable, though. It’s also the fastest 6-in-1 cable, delivering 5 times faster charging speeds thanks to its 240W Power Delivery (PD) capability. That means it can charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 50% in just 30 minutes and support some of the fastest chargers in the mobile market to date. Even better, its support for the USB 3.1 Gen 2 standard not only means fast data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps, it also means that you can use this same cable to connect a laptop, a tablet, or a phone to a USB-C monitor.

The Zeus-X Go Ultra doesn’t skimp on aesthetics and design quality, either, with a zinc alloy construction that ensures the longevity of the adapters while also giving it a stylish, futuristic appearance. The two ends clip together with magnets, so you can easily hang one from your keychain and never worry about forgetting or misplacing your charging cable again. And for those with longer needs, there are options that can reach up to 10ft! Never lose time again looking for the right cable for your device with the Zeus-X Go Ultra, the single cable solution you’ll ever need.

Click Here to Buy Now: $29 $40 (21% off). Hurry, for a limited time only! Raised over $200,000.

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This sensible foldable phone with minimalist + clock mode is digital detox done right

Smartphone as a smart digital tool has changed the complexion of human lives in the last decade or so. Unfortunately, for most of us, the pocketable gadget now rules our lives more than ever, sucking us into the lucrative world of entertaining content, social media and constant information overload. A gadget that initially made us smarter than the average Joe, is now becoming the cause of anxiety and sleep deprivation, thus affecting our lifestyle more than ever.

To counter this, there are countless apps in the Apple App Store and Google Play, to curb screen time. For those who can’t resist the restrictions and break them more often, a full-proof option comes in the form of a minimalist smartphone that has the bare minimum a phone actually needs to have. Yes, I’m talking of the Wisephone and Light Phone II that give you no option to cheat around your own rules. Even better, giving the minimalist phone a good bump in aesthetics, feel and functional practicality is this 0/1 minimal foldable phone.

Designer: Andrea Mangone

Still in the concept phase, the phone is a hybrid of a normal smartphone and a no-nonsense device that lets you take a break from the lure of mindlessly scrolling through app feeds or playing games. This makes complete sense as people who have used minimalist phones eventually had to switch back to normal phones as some apps are required professionally or even during the normal course of life.

0/1 phone offers the best of both worlds, giving the user flexibility to switch between the two modes. Open up the device to reveal a flexible display with 1080×2640 resolution to enjoy social media, multimedia content and video games. As soon as you feel the need to go minimalist, close down the screen for a distraction-free interface. The e-ink display on the outside now becomes your main screen, showing only the most important stuff that doesn’t suck you into mindless scrolling. The interface can be customized with stylish analog or digital clocks, music player, calendar, or other simple apps.

If you want to go a step further, place the 01 phone in a vertical position (just like a bedside clock) when folded down. This activates the zen-like mode with no distracting notifications, and the thick form factor makes it feel like another desk gadget. Only calls, event reminders and a clock mode are active, thereby, converting your smartphone into a smart clock of sorts.

Coming onto the design, the phone gets an upbeat mix of materials and finishes inspired by “home décor, fashion and lifestyle accessories.” The body is crafted out of aluminum and the biopolymer coating lends it a warm, natural feel. The back panel gets a layer of rubberized vegan leather for a secure grip and the colorful hues of the nylon weaved tag integrated into the SIM card tray provide a visual contrast.

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Major EDC Multitool Brands Ranked Worst To Best

I love the term EDC because it really describes the universal nature of the category. Short for EveryDayCarry, EDC includes everything you can’t live without. While for most people it’s their phone, spectacles, and AirPods… for the EDC community, it usually features tools that are integral to life and survival. These range broadly from knives for the outdoors as well as indoors, as well as multitools, camping equipment, stationery with a tactical touch (a pen that can also cut your seatbelt, perhaps), and even wallets that do a lot more than just storing cards and cash.

The beauty of EDC is that you might be able to get by without it, but having it on you just makes things a LOT easier. You don’t know when you’ll need a bottle opener or a screwdriver, but having one on hand can make a massive difference. To that end, all EDC tools focus on being carryable (that’s what the C stands for, after all). They do this by either fitting multiple tools into a small form factor, or by being foldable.

A good EDC focuses on the carry-ability, but doesn’t compromise on function. It uses the finest materials, the most interesting and reliable mechanisms, and prioritizes durability – because if there’s anything worse than NOT having your EDC on you, it’s having an EDC that fails or breaks right when you need it the most in an emergency or tactical scenario.

This list takes a look at some of the most noteworthy EDC brands, ranking them by variety, quality, performance, value, and overall consumer satisfaction.


15. UZI Knives

UZI Tactical Pen 4

Known for its rich history in the firearms industry, UZI‘s foray into the EDC market brings a robust, military-inspired aesthetic. The brand shines with its tactical pens, celebrated for their blend of practicality, reliability, and affordability. Made from durable materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, they perform in challenging conditions without compromising function. Beyond pens, UZI’s rugged watches, flashlights, and folding knives uphold their philosophy of durable, practical utility, making them a compelling choice for those seeking a reliable, utilitarian addition to their everyday carry.

14. Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson Karambit Folding Knife

Just like UZI, Smith & Wesson extends its presence from the firearms industry into the EDC market with a range of products that are reliable and offer an affordable alternative to enthusiasts looking to own their gear. Their products, especially knives and tactical tools, offer functionality and durability at an attractive price point, appealing to budget-conscious consumers. Whether it’s a compact folding knife or a versatile multi-tool, Smith & Wesson provides essential utility with a robust build, making them an appealing option for those seeking dependable everyday carry items without straining their budget.

13. Schrade

Schrade Torsion CLR Folder

Schrade‘s appeal lies in its fusion of durability and diversity. Originally founded in 1904 as the Schrade Cutlery Company, the brand now offers a wide array of knives and tools crafted from robust materials, designed to withstand daily wear and tear. Their product range extends from compact pocket knives to larger survival tools, each embodying Schrade’s commitment to practical, hard-wearing designs. For consumers seeking a balance of function and durability, Schrade provides a plethora of options tailored for everyday utility.

12. Kershaw

Kershaw Select Fire Multi-Tool

Kershaw is a trusted name in the EDC knife category, having been founded by Pete Kershaw in 1974. Eve though it’s now a subsidiary of the Kai Group – Japan’s premier blade producer – Kershaw still proudly manufactures all their EDC in Tualatin, Oregon, USA, combining innovation from its Japanese counterpart into its EDC offering. In 1988, Kershaw debuted their ‘assisted opening’ mechanism, which changed the industry landscape forever. EDC (pocket knives in particular) form a core part of the company’s broad offering, although you’ll also find outdoor gear and apparel on their website too.

11. Dango

Dango T01 Tactical Wallet

Dango dives into the EDC market with its strikingly unconventional designs and multifunctional products. Their unique line-up, especially their wallets/cardholders, blends industrial hardware with luxurious leather, showcasing a commitment to quality and innovation. The mix of functionality and style in their products caters to the modern consumer who seeks more than just traditional utility from their everyday carry. Originally founded as a Kickstarter project (one of the highest-funded ones in the EDC category no less), Dango’s evolved wonderfully into a company that prioritizes function, fashion, durability, modularity, and a consumer-first approach – no matter who the consumer is…

10. MetMo

MetMo Pocket Driver

MetMo, short for ‘Metal in Motion’, brings a novel approach to the EDC world. The brand thrives on the intersection of fascination and function, offering meticulously engineered items that invite hands-on interaction. Their flagship product, the ‘MetMo Driver‘, is a prime example of their commitment to creating meticulously engineered items. This hand-cranked driver with a satisfying bolt-action-inspired ratchet mechanism not only provides practical utility but also serves as a tactile, hands-on gadget that invites interaction. Made from high-quality metal, it is a testament to MetMo’s dedication to durability and innovative design. For those who appreciate a blend of utility, durability, and sensory satisfaction, MetMo offers a distinctive option in the EDC market.

9. Gerber

Gerber Stake Out Multi-Tool

A part of the Fiskars Group, Gerber has carved a notable place in the EDC market with a vast and versatile range of products. From compact multi-tools to robust knives, and even reusable outdoor cutlery, their offerings cater to a wide array of consumer needs. Built for durability and designed for functionality, Gerber’s products resonate with both occasional users and dedicated outdoor enthusiasts. Shown above is the Stake Out, Gerber’s handy 4.5-inch-long multitool that conceals 11 essential outdoor tools that help you forage and hunt, set up tents or shelters, start fires, and then crack open a bottle of your favorite beverage when you’re done.

8. SOG

SOG Trident AT Pocket Knife

SOG Specialty Knives was formed by Spencer and Gloria Frazer in 1986. The name SOG comes from the abbreviation for Studies and Observations Group, as a hat tip to the MACV-SOG Joint Operations unit which developed their own knife during the War in Vietnam. The company’s first-ever knife, the SOG Bowie, was designed as a modified replica of the same knife used in Vietnam. Other than the original military-inspired designs, SOG offers a diverse line of EDC gear designed to be reliable, functional, and robust. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their product range, spanning all sorts of outdoor, camping, workshop, and tactical gear… and the odd backpack series too.

7. Tekto

Tekto A2 Badger OTF Knife

Tekto caters to the modern EDC enthusiast with a range of products that balance form and function. Known for their strict focus on knives, the company’s offerings broadly branch into folding knives, and their popular automatic OTF (out-the-front) knives, better known as switchblades. All of Tekto’s automatic knives are made in the USA. While these knives are designed for and commonly used by law enforcement, military personnel, and first responders, their OTF knives make for a remarkable addition to any EDC-lover’s gear collection.

6. CRKT (Columbia River Knife & Tool)

CRKT Provoke Morphing Karambit Knife

CRKT prides itself on innovation and collaboration, working with a wide range of blade designers, veterans, and other knifemakers to release some of the most innovative, playful, and functional EDC designs out there. Their collection of knives and tools boasts an intriguing mix of design and functionality. Take the Provoke, for instance – this morphing karambit was designed by Joe Caswell and debuted on Kickstarter, before CRKT partnered with him to rebrand the knife and launch it on their website. The karambit works quite similarly to how panther claws would, and that all-black finish definitely enhances its appeal. CRKT’s other knives focus on indoor and outdoor use, with the company crafting a beautiful balance between rugged tools and classy, contemporary EDC.

5. WESN

WESN The Carabiner (Titanium)

WESN captures a unique market segment within the EDC community with its dedication to micro-sized, high-quality tools. Known for their compact and ultra-lightweight knives, WESN manages to balance the size without compromising on the build quality or functionality. Their offerings are a testament to precise craftsmanship and utilitarian design, making them a popular choice for minimalists who demand strength and durability from their EDC gear. WESN’s Allman and Microblade remain their most popular (and capable) blades, but our minds can’t forget The Carabiner (or CB for short), a single-piece carabiner crafted from solid titanium, with a unique flexible spring-like hinge detail and a lifetime warranty.

4. The James Brand

The James Brand – The Redstone

The James Brand brings a refreshing contemporary touch to the EDC landscape. Renowned for its minimalist designs, this brand elegantly balances aesthetics with function. Their collection, which includes sleek knives and versatile tools, caters to the modern consumer who values simplicity and style without compromising on utility. In a world filled with EveryDayCarry tools, the folks at The James Brand pride themselves in designing tools that you’ll WANT to carry every day. The company’s cultural impact on the modern EDC community is so vast, they even partnered with Supreme over a haute $78 box cutter. However, for die-hard knife fans, we recommend The Chapter, and The Redstone (shown above).

3. Leatherman

Leatherman P4 Multi-Tool Pliers & T2 Multi-Tool Pocket Knife

When it comes to multi-tools, Leatherman is almost a household name. While on holiday in Europe in 1975, Tim Leatherman and his wife Chau constantly came across leaky hotel plumbing and roadside fixes for their cranky Fiat. That experience led to a brainwave, sparking the birth of the plier-based multitool – an incredible category that Leatherman is credited with inventing. Based out of Portland, Oregon, the Leatherman company still champions this category as one of the most functional tools in their catalog, with offerings like the Leatherman Curl being one of their highest-selling pieces.

2. Benchmade

Benchmade Tanto Claymore Pocket Knife

The family-owned, American company Benchmade distinguishes itself in the EDC market with a well-earned reputation for premium knives.  Utilizing top-tier materials and advanced manufacturing, Benchmade’s products are celebrated for their durability, superior performance, and refined design. From tactical knives to elegant folding options, their offerings cater to diverse needs without compromising on quality. Each Benchmade knife is backed by the company’s LifeSharp® promise, which guarantees free blade sharpening for the lifetime of your knife’s blade. This consistent dedication to quality and service makes Benchmade a standout choice in the EDC landscape.

1. Victorinox

Victorinox Pioneer Multitool

Victorinox, the original Swiss Army Knife manufacturer, continues to stand at the pinnacle of the EDC world. With a solid reputation built on reliability, versatility, and a wide product range, Victorinox balances affordability with quality. Their Swiss Army Knives are iconic, but their other offerings, like kitchen knives and watches, also adhere to the highest standards. This combination of heritage, consistency, and range cements Victorinox’s position as a gold standard in the EDC community.

The post Major EDC Multitool Brands Ranked Worst To Best first appeared on Yanko Design.

National Portrait Gallery revamp establishes connection to London surroundings

Exterior of revamped National Portrait Gallery

A public forecourt and entrance gates by artist Tracey Emin have been introduced to the National Portrait Gallery in London as part of a major renovation led by local studios Jamie Fobert Architects and Purcell.

The Grade I-listed building just off Trafalgar Square has been transformed to open and connect it to its surroundings, while maximising the accessibility and potential of its existing fabric.

Main entrance to National Portrait Gallery in London
The National Portrait Gallery has undergone a major renovation. Photo is by Olivier Hess

Jamie Fobert Architects and heritage expert Purcell‘s overarching ambition was to realign the 19th-century building with the visions of its original architect, Ewan Christian.

The team’s reconfigurations have created an 18 per cent increase in public space through the introduction of a new entrance and the opening of previously concealed areas.

Main entrance to National Portrait Gallery in London
A public forecourt has been introduced. Photo is by Olivier Hess

It is the largest renovation to have taken place at the National Portrait Gallery since it opened in 1896. Previous renovations were carried out in the 1930s and in the early 2000s.

“Never has there been a holistic transformation, and this project gave the opportunity to do that,” Purcell chairperson Liz Smith told Dezeen on a tour of the building.

Bronze doors designed by Tracey Emin
Three doorways have been cut into its granite base

“But more than that, it gave the opportunity to look at where the building still had the capacity for change, and where interventions have been made that were less sympathetic, to be able to bring those spaces back into the quality of the rest of the building,” added Smith.

According to Jamie Fobert Architects’ founder, visiting the gallery was “a fragmented experience” for visitors prior to the overhaul.

Bronze doors designed by Tracey Emin
Tracey Emin illustrated women for its bronze gates. Photo is by Olivier Hess

“I think for me, what was really important about this project was from arriving in this new public space, into this new hall,” Jamie Fobert told Dezeen.

Jamie Fobert Architects and Purcell collaborated with engineers Max Fordham and Price & Myers on the project, as well as studios Nissen Richards Studio and Alex Cochrane Architects.

Galleries inside revamped National Portrait Gallery
The galleries have been revamped. Photo is by Olivier Hess

The design team’s ideas for the project were developed using both visitor feedback to the gallery and Christian’s original drawings, which enabled them to uncover hidden pockets of space.

A central idea was the introduction of a new forecourt, which helps establish a more welcoming entrance area and a better connection to the city.

Ground-floor gallery of National Portrait Gallery
There is a new ground floor gallery

The new entrance area bridges an existing lightwell to the building’s basement area and features granite steps, a ramp and a bench that guide visitors inside.

These complement the granite base of the building into which three new doorways have been cut. The doorways are fitted with tall bronze gates inscribed with illustrations of 45 women drawn by Emin.

Interior of London art museum
The revamp aligns with the visions of the original architect Ewan Christian. Photo is by Jim Stephenson

From here, visitors are guided into the new entrance hall, which was formed through the removal of existing walls and links to a new ground-floor gallery.

Highlights of the entrance hall include a walnut and veneered welcome desk designed by Jamie Fobert Architects and flooring with white mosaics that nod to historic mosaics designed by Christian to signpost the building’s circulation areas.

Interior of London art museum
Bricked-up windows have been reopened. Photo is by Jim Stephenson

Leading on from the entrance area is a large opening that provides access to the Ondaatje Hall. Here, stairs, escalators or elevators lead to the galleries beyond.

The Ondaatje Hall was constructed in 1999 with a design by Dixon Jones Architects in the courtyard located between the building and the adjacent National Gallery.

Artwork inside of National Portrait Gallery
The galleries have all be rehung. Photo is by Gareth Gardener

Across the galleries, the design team has reinstated Christian’s original designs wherever possible. Bricked-up windows and skylights have been reopened, while bleached-teak flooring has been restored to its original state.

New climate-controlled galleries have also been created in the building’s east wing, now named The Weston Wing.

Sitting beside new cafe facilities, these galleries replace what were previously private back-of-house rooms that have been rehoused in an adjacent building,

Here, Jamie Fobert Architects has also added a timber and steel stair that runs from the building’s basement to its top floor. Its balustrade is designed as a nod to the bend of Charing Cross Road outside.

Meanwhile, an original basement level that was used as storage has been opened up to create The Mildred & Simon Palley Learning Centre for schools, families and community groups.

Despite being in the basement, its studios and breakout spaces are well-lit thanks to large windows and a glazed double-height space beside the lightwell below the forecourt bridge.

Finishing touches to the project include the uncovering and repairs to terrazzo flooring dating back to 1896.

Display cases with text blocks set in an angled panel designed for accessibility have been added, alongside a series of sculptural walnut benches with armrests – a detail that previous seating in the gallery lacked and that had been requested by visitors.

Tudor artwork inside of National Portrait Gallery
Original skylights have also been reopened. Photo is by Gareth Gardener

As part of the renovation, the National Portrait Gallery’s collection has also been rehung to guide visitors from artwork from the Tudor period to now.

A new logo has also been created by illustrator Peter Horridge based on a sketch by the gallery’s first director George Scharf’s sketch from 1893.

Next door at the National Gallery, a remodel of the postmodern Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown-designed Sainsbury Wing is under development by New York studio Selldorf Architects.

The plans have proven controversial, with the conservation group Twentieth Century Society (C20) stating they will “cause substantial harm” to the Grade I-listed building.

The photography is by David Parry unless stated otherwise.

The post National Portrait Gallery revamp establishes connection to London surroundings appeared first on Dezeen.

This minimal 3D-printed side table features unique interlocking storage sections

A beautifully designed piece of furniture has the power to lend an air of elegance and calm to an otherwise mundane or messy space. It doesn’t have to be large, nor does it have to be woven with bells and tassels, its simplistic minimal demeanor is enough to add an interesting spark to a basic living room. And the Drop Side Table just happens to be one such kind of furniture design. Side tables are usually ignored, and paid a meager amount of attention to while buying. However, the Drop Side Table was definitely paid a considerable amount of attention to while designing, hence resulting in a simple yet power-packed piece of furniture.

Designer: Deniz Aktay for recozy

Designed by Deniz Aktay, the Drop Side Table is a clean, minimal, and chiq piece. The side table was built by twisting a standard glass tube, until the tube was completely interlocked in itself. This twisting and interlocking resulted in the creation of two parts that are divided by a tightly knitted separation. Twisting the tube created a simple and efficient product that did not require any additional material. Aktay says that the Drop table was 3D-printed in vase mode, which basically means printing time and the usage of material are optimized and minimized. Recycled PTA and recycled wood fibres were utilized for the 3D-printing process.

The side table features a unique and asymmetrical twisting point which allows it to be utilized from every side, even if it is turned upside down! Pretty interesting, no? The twisting storage sections of the side table can be used to store a variety of items from books and magazines to tealights or smaller flowers. Whereas the upper base can be used as a tabletop, as can the lower base if the table is turned upside down.

The different contouring and interlocking sections of the Drop table provide the furniture piece with a geometrically unique and innovative aesthetic and a rather refreshing identity. The table occupies a minimum amount of space and can be placed cozily into any nook or cranny of your home. Overall, the Drop table is a thoughtfully designed, functional, and good-looking furniture design.

The post This minimal 3D-printed side table features unique interlocking storage sections first appeared on Yanko Design.

Mary English and Xavier Vendrell arrange three courtyards for San Antonio house

Susan's House

Local studios Mary English and Xavier Vendrell Architects have lined up three courtyards on a linear suburban plot for a white stucco house in San Antonio, Texas.

Located in the neighborhood of Lavaca, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the design had to adhere to Historic Design Guidelines that required a front porch, specific roof profiles, window proportions and materials.

Three gabled forms of a white stucco house
The house is composed of five gabled forms

Officially based in Chicago, Mary English and Xavier Vendrell are both professors at Auburn University in Alabama and designed the three-bedroom home – Susan’s House – for English’s sister and her family.

The 1,970-square foot (183-square metre) house, centred on a quarter-acre lot, was completed in July 2022.

Interior view of house with courtyard
Mary English and Xavier Vendrell Architects designed the dwelling with three courtyards

The house is composed of five gabled forms. A primary gable runs perpendicular to the street and contains a bedroom on either end with the kitchen and dining room in the center.

Four smaller gabled volumes run parallel to the street, and each other, and comprise a front porch, living room, screened porch and master suite. Three open-air courtyards separate these spaces.

Courtyard by Mary English and Xavier Vendrell Architects
The courtyards are open-air spaces

Inspired by Walter Gropius’ 1938 home in Lincoln, Massachusetts, the courtyards and porches are all “rooms,” only some have ceilings and some don’t, Vendrell told Dezeen.

The flexible screened porch, which can be used as a living, dining or sleeping room, is the heart of the house and was designed to be a centre of activity for the family.

Seating area within white stucco house
The arrangement of the courtyards and glazing affords views across the public core of the house

The courtyards provide the residents with exterior space that is protected, shaded and private in the compact neighbourhood where the houses have only 10 feet between the houses.

From the exterior, the house is modest – white stucco with low-profile aluminium details and a standing seam, metal roof – but the form has inherent surprises, English explained.

Living space by Mary English and Xavier Vendrell
Living spaces feature eclectic furniture

Rather than entering directly into an enclosed space, the solid wood door opens of the front porch volumes opens directly into the first courtyard that contains bike storage, creating a layered threshold.

A second Douglas Fir door, custom built by Long House Builders, opens to the interior, where light pours in through floor-to-ceiling, sliding glass doors by Fleetwood Doors and washes the polished concrete floors.

The arrangement of the courtyards and glazing affords views across the public core of the house in every direction, making the compact interior feel large and airy.

“We wanted the materials to be neutral and quiet because we were interested in the spatial qualities and sequence of spaces,” English said.

The design dissolves the transition to the exterior and focuses on light and natural ventilation.

White stucco house with gables in Texas
From the exterior, the house is modest

In addition to the cross ventilation created by having two windows in each space, the southeast side courtyards create small microclimates, cooling hot Texas air with shade before it enters the house.

The spatial concept of Susan’s House is similar to HW Studio Arquitectos’ white block residence in Morelia, Mexico with a series of linear interior courtyards. However, the profile and form fit within the context of the neighborhood, rather than departing from it.

The photography is by Timothy Hursley.


Project credits:

Architect: Mary English, Xavier Vendrell
Project team: Andreas Förnemark
Structural Engineer: GE Reaves Engineering
Landscape: Hillworks, David Hill
General contractor: Long House Builders

The post Mary English and Xavier Vendrell arrange three courtyards for San Antonio house appeared first on Dezeen.

Meet the Tellus Bench, “the world’s first” furniture made from fossil-free steel

Street furniture brand Vestre and designer Emma Olbers have designed a unique and innovative piece of furniture called the Tellus Bench using fossil-free steel, produced without creating carbon emissions. Swedish steelmaker SSAB forged the steel used to build the Tellus Bench in its converted blast furnace, which utilizes green hydrogen instead of coal for heat, and hence it emits no carbon dioxide.

Designer: Vestre and Emma Olbers

Vestre intends to be recognized as the world’s most sustainable furniture company and claims that it is the first furniture manufacturer in the world to use fossil-free steel. Vestre uses steel to slash carbon emissions. “Early estimates show that converting all our steel to fossil-free could reduce our overall footprint by around 60 percent,” said Vestre chief sustainability officer Øyvind Bjørnstad. Designer Olbers wanted to lower emissions by using as few materials as possible to build the bench. “An outdoor bench for public environments must also withstand a lot of wear and tear,” Olbers said. “We have striven to use as little material as possible but still maintain the strong construction.”

Olbers wanted the bench to have a “metal feel”, while also possessing a welcoming and inviting appeal. The bench is equipped with wide armrests, that provide comfort to the user, while also offering sufficient space to place a coffee or tea cup. The Tellus bench is intended to be used in parks, and other public spaces, and is available in the classic RAL color. The bench is named after one of the alternative names for Planet Earth.

The material used to build the Tellus bench has the same properties as steel, but it is produced via a process called Hydrogen Breakthrough Ironmaking Technology (HYBRIT), during which green hydrogen is burned in the place of coal and coke. The green hydrogen is procured via the electrolysis of water, which splits and partitions the water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen and emits no greenhouse gases at all. The Tellus bench is meant to be the world’s first item of furniture made from fossil-free steel, and we cant wait to see how this innovative design will impact the world of furniture design.

The post Meet the Tellus Bench, “the world’s first” furniture made from fossil-free steel first appeared on Yanko Design.

teddy

teddy<3 (aka Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Teddy Geiger) has released an electric, dreamlike new single “True Love,” the first from her forthcoming record, Teresa. “The music originated from some ambient amp noise I had recorded and tuned and layered, a fuzzy little form emerged out of that,” Geiger says of the track. “‘True Love’ is about living truth, being honest with yourself, and knowing when to walk away.”

Dezeen Agenda features David Beckham's designs for a pair of Maseratis

David Beckham Maserati

The latest edition of our weekly Dezeen Agenda newsletter features David Beckham’s designs for a pair of Maseratis. Subscribe to Dezeen Agenda now.

Italian brand Maserati has unveiled a pair of sports cars designed by former footballer Beckham. The design of each car was informed by a historic Maserati and created using the brand’s customisation program.

High-tech pioneer Michael Hopkins dies aged 88
High-tech pioneer Michael Hopkins dies aged 88

This week’s newsletter also included the death of RIBA Royal Gold Medal-winning architect Michael Hopkins, an industrial Venice Beach house by architect Matthew Royce and Zaha Hadid Architects’ plans for a luxury condominium in Miami.

Dezeen Agenda

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Sennheiser All-Day Clear hearing aids double as potent wireless earbuds

Traditionally a hearing aid and earbuds are worlds apart in their form and function. That notion has been busted long ago with companies offering their hybrid versions – the likes of Sony CRE C10, Bose Sound Control or Sennheiser Conversation Clear Plus. The ability to bring crystal clear vocals with auto adjustments based on the ambient noise, such hearing aids are not bad at delivering ear-pleasing audio for music lovers.

Now Sennheiser wants to improve on their initial offering with over-the-counter hearing aids for music lovers who have a bit of a problem hearing people in crowded spaces. The OTC aids come in two versions: All-Day Clear and All-Day Clear Slim. Both of them have a dedicated charging case just like the brand’s flagship Momentum True Wireless earbuds.

Designer: Sennheiser

The announcement of this unique OTC hearing aid cum earbuds is not surprising ever since Sonova, a leading hearing care solutions provider acquired Sennheiser’s consumer audio business in 2021. The All-Day Clear hearing aids are a result of the expertise of both camps and target to attract the tech-savvy crowd.

The hearing aids have been designed keeping in mind the modern-day users who are accustomed to smart features like ANC and transparency mode in the earbuds. On the same lines, Sennheiser has incorporated smart scene detection sensors and processing algorithms that toggle the voice based on the ambient environment. The sound can be customized to the preferred hearing levels via the accompanying app. When you desire to listen to music, you can toggle the mode for an ANC-like input just like regular earbuds.

Sennheiser is promising 16 hours of added battery backup with the charging case on both variants. They are going to be released in mid-July at a starting price tag of $1,400 for the All-Day Clear and $1,500 for the All-Day Clear Slim version. They’ll also come with the added optional in-clinic care package of security consulting with a hearing specialist.

The post Sennheiser All-Day Clear hearing aids double as potent wireless earbuds first appeared on Yanko Design.