If we don’t change the fearful way in which we perceive climate change, “we will constantly reinforce this role of the future being fucked,” said Disrupt Design founder Leyla Acaroglu at the Design and Climate: Rethinking Our Role conference.

Designer Acaroglu began her keynote by urging the audience of designers to adopt an “ecosystem mindset” when conceiving their projects, suggesting that teamwork is critical to working more sustainably.

“If you don’t have that collaborative mindset, you’re not really able to get the kinds of systems and changes that we need,” said the Disrupt Design creative agency founder.

“An amazing foundation to being able to start something is knowing the hidden impacts of things,” she added, referring to the importance of life-cycle assessments (LCA) for products.

The event in London was the first hosted by Design Declares – an organisation helmed by a group of studios, agencies, designers and institutions committed to harnessing tools from the design industry to tackle the climate emergency, founded in 2022.

Acaroglu continued by emphasising that “when it comes to addressing climate change, most of the actions that we need to take are hidden in the supply chain”.

“We talk about climate being difficult because it’s embedded in absolutely every single thing we do,” said the designer.

Acaroglu highlighted eco-anxiety, something she said affects most people to varying degrees, as a global issue hindering progress in sustainable design.

“Eco-anxiety is very close to general anxiety disorder in that you can have physiological reactions like heart palpitations, stomach pain and headaches. But it also generally creates a sense of despair and isolation,” said Acaroglu.

“It’s a major problem because people don’t talk about it. And that anxiety is just going to fester and become more problematic,” she added.

“Like how in the past, we didn’t talk about general mental health issues. I think people are scared.”

“We have to find ways to open the dialogue”

The designer encouraged her audience to confront, rather than avoid, their fears surrounding climate change.

“I have been working in this space for 20 years, so I have a lot of adaptive practices to deal with the torturous reality of, you know, global environmental and social destruction,” she quipped.

“We all have to find ways to open the dialogue so that we can move beyond [the anxiety],” added Acaroglu.

“We have this negativity bias, which is activated by the flooding of information on social media. Conversations that are very Doomsday, which is what happens these days,” she continued.

“I even do it. Like the casual, ‘oh well, you know, climate change is going to get us all!’ And I’m not saying that we need to eliminate our casual jokes about the reality of the world,” she added.

“But if we don’t change the way the brain perceives the threats, we will constantly reinforce this role of the future being fucked. And that is not what we need.”

Acaroglu suggested that it is designers in particular who have the necessary skills to enact small-scale change and communicate hope.

“I always say that the first people we need to educate are the people in power. Because it’s going to take a long time for the kids to get to those positions,” she added.

“People like you have the capacity to design a better future. The design industry has the opportunity to be at the forefront of this transformation.”

Disrupt Design method about “disrupting” the status quo

Acaroglu’s Disrupt Design method was conceived to help designers tackle issues surrounding sustainability in their practice, and encourages practitioners to “disrupt” the current status quo.

The method is described as a multidisciplinary approach offering “anyone the tools for affecting positive change”, using expertise from design-thinking, sociology, sciences and economics.

“I created a design process years ago because I got really into systems-thinking, understanding interconnectedness and dependence of everything,” explained Acaroglu.

“It’s designed to be a temporary scaffolding that any professional designer can use at the beginning of the transformation from moving from a traditional, linear designer to a circular and sustainable one.”

The Design and Climate: Rethinking Our Role conference took place last month at Hackney’s Yorkton Workshops, home to industrial design studio Pearson Lloyd.

Studio co-founder Tom Lloyd, Andy Galloway of New Citizen Project and founder of Design for Social Change Priya Prakash preceded Acaroglu’s talk as speakers at the event on how designers can tackle climate change. The audience was invited to participate in an interactive workshop after the discussion.

The photography is courtesy of Design Declares.

Design and Climate: Rethinking Our Role took place at Yorkton Workshops, 1-3 Yorkton St, London E2 8NH, on 14 June 2024. See Dezeen Events Guide for information, plus a list of other architecture and design events taking place around the world.

The post Unaddressed eco-anxiety “is just going to fester and become more problematic” says Leyla Acaroglu appeared first on Dezeen.

The upcoming Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is already generating buzz, and the latest images from Taiwan’s National Communications Commission offer a compelling look at what we can expect. This second-generation foldable represents a departure from its predecessor, embracing a new design philosophy while addressing some of the previous model’s shortcomings.

Designer: Google

First and foremost, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold ditches the original’s short and wide passport-style form factor. The new model adopts a taller and narrower profile, bringing it more in line with devices like the OnePlus Open. This change offers a larger, more practical outer display, making the phone easier to handle and use. The increased screen real estate is a welcome improvement, even though it means saying goodbye to the unique shape that made the first Pixel Fold stand out from competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Fold.

Google Pixel Fold

One of the most notable changes is removing Google’s signature camera bar. The first-generation Pixel Fold featured a prominent, elongated camera bar that added a distinctive look and functionality. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold opts for a new camera housing design, which is substantial enough to prevent the phone from wobbling when laid flat. This redesign offers a cleaner and more streamlined aesthetic, although it loses some of the original’s unique charm.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold via Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC)

Google Pixel Fold

Looking at the new model’s inner display, there’s still a noticeable crease, though it appears less prominent than before. The screen ratio has shifted, becoming taller and narrower, and the bezels have been slimmed down, giving the device a more modern look. However, this design shift comes with a trade-off: the inner camera is now a cutout on the upper-left part of the display rather than being part of the bezel. This change means the screen is no longer uninterrupted, which might disappoint fans of the original design.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold via Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC)

Despite its weight, the first-generation Pixel Fold’s short and wide design made it a great one-handed device. Although its cover screen was larger on paper, it was often too wide to hold comfortably for extended periods. In contrast, the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s taller form factor should make it easier to use and carry around, enhancing the overall user experience.

Google Pixel Fold

A concern with the new model is its slightly smaller battery capacity of 4,560 mAh, down from the first Fold’s 4,727 mAh. Given that the original wasn’t known for its battery longevity, this reduction might raise some eyebrows. However, Google’s latest Tensor processor promises efficiency gains that could help mitigate this issue.

Alongside these design changes, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a new 45-watt USB-C charger. This new charger, which sports a more rounded design than its predecessors, is part of Google’s push to improve charging speeds and overall user convenience.

Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold charger via Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC)

As someone who has used the first-generation Pixel Fold extensively, I can say that it has a unique quality that the new model hopes to build upon. The first Fold had its share of drawbacks, from dim screen brightness compared to newer models to subpar speakers and limited app optimization. With the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google can address these issues and deliver a more refined and competitive product.

Google Pixel Fold

The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant evolution in design and functionality. By moving away from the unique but bulky passport form factor to a more practical and user-friendly design, Google is making strides to compete more effectively in the foldable phone market. Here’s hoping that the new model not only looks the part but also delivers on performance and user experience, even if it does come with a price tag north of $2,000.

The post Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: A Worthy Redesign or a Step Back? first appeared on Yanko Design.

Is it safe to say that Apple’s won the long-term smartphone war? Samsung had a decent Unpacked event last week, and so did Nothing, but none of them have even managed to match the cultural impact of Apple’s iPhone keynote that happens every September. In fact, even though the event happens on one single day, the news coverage before and after the event revolves around the iPhone too. After the phone’s announced, you’ve got first-impressions, reviews, and comparisons… but before the phone is announced, the rumor mill works hard to try and decipher what the upcoming phone will look like. We’re in July right now (two months before Apple announces its latest phone) and at this point, it does seem like we have a fair idea of what the new iPhone 16 Pro will look like. From hardware details to even internal components, the interwebz has worked tirelessly to deliver on leaks and credible speculations – so we decided to collect everything we know about the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max in one single place. Here’s everything we’ve heard so far…

Rendered by: AppleTrack

A18 Pro Bionic Chipset

After last month’s WWDC event, it’s pretty much taken for granted that Apple Intelligence will be at the forefront of the new iPhone lineup… and to make that happen, the new iPhones will need beefed up chipsets. A new report from Jeff Pu, an analyst at Haitong International Tech Research renowned for his reliable insights into Apple’s chip development, reveals that Apple is accelerating the production of the A18 Pro chip earlier than usual. This chip is being specifically tailored for advanced AI functionalities. These upgrades indicate that the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will feature a custom-designed A18 Pro chip, emphasizing on-device handling of intensive artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. Rumors are indicating that even the regular iPhone 16 phones may get the A18 Bionic chipset to handle these AI features.

Smaller Bezels = Bigger Screens

It’s 2014 again and bezels are public enemy number 1. Apple’s new phones will reportedly have marginally larger screens thanks to an impressive 30% reduction in bezels. This new display template, dubbed BRS or Border Reduction Structure, is thanks to Apple pushing Samsung to provide tighter circuit placement that can help shave off almost half a millimeter of bezel thickness. These reports seem fairly credible, coming from THE ELEC, a Korean industry media outlet. This effectively means the new 16 Pro and Pro Max will have screens measuring 6.3 and 6.9 inches diagonally, respectively.

The iPhone 15 Pro on the left and the 16 Pro on the right demonstrate the reduced bezel sizes

A New Capture Button For Enhanced Photography

Although rumors of a Capture Button have circulated for quite a while, actual details on its capabilities have only NOW become more evident. At first, this button was touted as simply a shutter button that could click photos without you needing to touch your screen, but indications show that this button will have a touch-sensitive surface and a two-stage press. The touch-sensitive surface will allow you to slide your finger from side to side to zoom in or out, while the two-stage press lets you press lightly for focusing, and then further for clicking the picture, sort of like most DSLR cameras. The capture button sits where the millimeter-wave antenna once featured on the iPhone’s body, but it seems like the antenna will just move over to the left side instead, making way for the new hardware feature on the iPhone 16 Pro.

Same Old Sensors, New Capabilities

Since cameras are a pretty massive part of the iPhone (some might say its highlight), talking about camera capabilities is also pretty crucial. Rumor has it that the new iPhone 16 Pro will still feature the 48MP main camera sensor from its predecessor with no change. However, the tetraprism telephoto lens from last year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max that could output 5x zoom will see even more zoom capabilities. Last year’s flagship iPhone had the zoom equivalent of a 120mm telephoto lens, but rumors indicate the new iPhone will push this to a 300mm lens equivalent. Now obviously, that seems absolutely bonkers, but it also makes sense to take such a rumor with a little pinch of salt. After all, stabilization while zooming in that far would probably be near impossible.

Thinner MagSafe Array

Yet another tweak, noticed by case-makers, is a refinement of the MagSafe array. Now the new MagSafe ring on the iPhone will feature thinner magnets all around, freeing up more space inside the phone without compromising on the magnet’s strength.

(Probably) A New Rose Gold Color Variant

The final rumor is that the iPhone 16 Pro series could see another color variant added to it. Apparently the famed Rose Gold colorway (made popular with earlier iPhone models and even the MacBook Air) could make a comeback – but this time in titanium. Yes, the new Pro-series iPhones will still have a titanium frame, but Apple will probably issue new color variants to set the different iPhone Pro models apart. Last year, the 15 Pro series saw natural, blue, white, and black finishes. It’s fairly conceivable that Rose Gold sees a resurgence this year.

Image Credits: FrontPageTech

The post Here’s Every iPhone 16 Pro Leak And Rumor We Know So Far… first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Rolex Perpetual 1908 brings a fresh perspective to the brand’s tradition of dress watches. Since its founding in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, Rolex has been a hallmark of precision, innovation, and elegance in watchmaking. The Perpetual 1908 continues this legacy, merging classic elements with modern sophistication. The latest model for 2024 introduces new materials and design refinements, ensuring it remains at the forefront of luxury timepieces.

Designer: Rolex

This model captures Rolex’s original boldness. Since the brand’s inception, Rolex has pursued Wilsdorf’s vision of wristwatches as high-performance instruments. This watch combines chronometric precision, waterproofness, autonomy, comfort, and durability. It embodies the classic yet modern spirit of the original Oyster Perpetual watches, with a silhouette and dial design that reimagines these timeless elements.

Initially available in 18-karat yellow gold and white gold, paired with either an intense white or matte black dial, the latest update introduces a new 950 platinum version. This version features an ice blue dial exclusive to Rolex watches in this prestigious metal. The case measures 39 mm, balancing presence and comfort on the wrist. The bezel combines domed and fluted design, adding elegance without ostentation. The transparent case back reveals the intricate workings of the movement, showcasing the brand’s commitment to aesthetics and performance.

The dials for the Perpetual 1908 include intense white, matte black, and now an ice blue with a guilloche rice-grain motif. This intricate pattern is created through traditional guillochage, reflecting light beautifully. The dial features Arabic numerals at 3, 9, and 12, with faceted index hour markers in 18-karat gold. The small seconds counter at 6 o’clock is centered within the rice-grain motif, enhancing the dial’s sophisticated look.

The hands are distinctive, with the minute hand shaped like a two-edged sword and the hour hand featuring a pierced circle. These elements blend historical inspiration with modern elegance, maintaining the watch’s refined aesthetic.

At the heart of the Perpetual 1908 is the caliber 7140, a self-winding movement developed in-house by Rolex’s watchmaking engineers. This movement drives the hands of the central hours and minutes and the small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. It incorporates several of Rolex’s cutting-edge technologies, including the Syloxi silicon hairspring and the Chronergy escapement made of a nickel-phosphorus alloy, both resistant to strong magnetic fields. The movement also features Paraflex shock absorbers, protecting the oscillator and escape wheel from shocks. With a power reserve of 66 hours, the caliber 7140 combines performance and elegance. Patents have been filed for this movement, entirely developed and manufactured in-house.

The 2024 model features an ice blue dial decorated with a rice-grain motif, achieved through guillochage. This rosette-like design, centered on the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock, gives the watch exceptional personality and is a tribute to traditional watchmaking infused with Rolex’s know-how and creativity.

The 950 platinum case, a rare and precious material, is striking for its incomparable radiance and silvery white glow. Considered the noblest of metals, it is noted for its exceptional corrosion resistance. The case has gracious lines and a transparent back that allows the refined aesthetics of the movement and the pivoting of the oscillating weight to be admired.

By offering a watch that reveals its movement through a transparent case back, Rolex continues to innovate while echoing its watchmaking tradition. The caliber 7140 features a cut-out oscillating weight in yellow gold with three arms engraved with the words “Chronometer Perpetual” and benefits from an optimized ball bearing. The movement boasts remarkable finishes, including the exclusive Rolex Côtes de Genève, a celebrated traditional watch decoration reinterpreted with a polished groove between each band. The sapphire window, virtually scratchproof, proves that for Rolex, the aesthetics of the movement are as important as its performance.

Introducing the Perpetual 1908 signifies a new direction for Rolex dress watches, blending the brand’s rich heritage with modern innovation. By launching the Perpetual collection and retiring the Cellini line, Rolex reaffirms its commitment to creating technically superior and timelessly elegant timepieces. This model sets a new standard for dress watches, combining historical elements with contemporary design and cutting-edge technology.

Future Rolex dress watches will continue to explore the balance between classic aesthetics and modern advancements. The transparent case back, showcasing the movement, indicates a willingness to innovate while honoring traditional watchmaking artistry. The movement’s use of advanced materials and technologies highlights Rolex’s dedication to performance and durability.

The Perpetual 1908 captures the essence of Rolex’s pursuit of excellence, blending past and future in a luxurious timepiece that speaks to the brand’s storied history and its vision for the future of dress watches.

The post Rolex Perpetual 1908: The 2024 Platinum Model with Ice Blue Dial first appeared on Yanko Design.

Dezeen School Shows: a project utilising hair as a biomaterial to promote sustainability is included Dezeen’s latest school show presented by the Interior Educators Awards.

Also included is an exhibition design that encourages recycling and a proposal to combat gentrification in London.

Interior Educators

Awards: Interior Educators National Student Awards 2024

School statement:

“The annual Interior Educators National Student Awards celebrate the creative, thoughtful and exciting work of students from interior design and interior architecture courses from across the UK.

“The winning projects showcase a diversity of approaches for the design and interpretation of interiors across six categories.

“The projects engage with the challenges facing us today and speculate how thoughtful design can create a better, more sustainable future for all.

“Interior Educators (IE) is a powerful network for more than 50 institutional members; a forum in which the exchange of ideas and experience contributes to the evolution of academic practice informing the design of interior space.

“The 2024 Interior Educators National Student Awards are generously sponsored by Brinkworth and the Royal College of Art.”

Undergrowth by Laura Finch

“Undergrowth is an innovative urban farming project situated in an abandoned railway station beneath the Glasgow Botanic Gardens, aiming to address food insecurity with cutting-edge growing techniques.

“Utilising bioluminescent plants to facilitate photosynthesis, the project produces fresh, nutritious crops year-round, transforming the space into a desirable educational hub for the community.

“This initiative demonstrates how food can be produced in unconventional spaces, emphasising both agricultural and community growth.

“The project comprises four interconnected elements: growing spaces, public engagement spaces, skill spaces and event spaces.

“Undergrowth redefines public spaces by creating a functional and educational environment where people can gather, learn and connect with their surroundings.”

Student: Laura Finch
Course: BDes Interior and Spatial Design
School: Edinburgh Napier University
Award: Interior Futures Award 24 – Winner (Completing Students)

Re: Pair by Elena Crawford

“Re: Pair is a scheme in Oxford that puts people and repair first in a central space in the city primarily focussed on consumerism.

“Located in Westgate shopping centre, spanning the only public square in Oxford, the project acts as a community takeover – offering public repair workshops for bikes and belongings, a tool and object hiring library as well as social spaces.

“Zero Carbon Oxford aims to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040 and reduce transport emissions by 88 per cent (Oxford City Council, 2024).

“Re: Pair aims to provide cyclists with a community space to encourage agency over repairing their bikes and belongings, as well as providing the physical cycling infrastructure and highlighting responsible consumption in the centre of the city.”

Student: Elena Crawford
Course: BA Interior Architecture
School: Oxford Brookes University
Award: Climate Emergency & Sustainability Award 24 – Winner (Completing Students)

Objects of Rhythm by Collaboration Across Five Programmes Combined students (163)

“Objects Of Rhythm is a four-week design and build project focussed almost entirely on making, problem-solving and detailing.

“Working at 1:1 (lifesize), the interiors year one students are tasked with creating objects for their dance student counterparts to choreograph around and work into a live performance, along with original music created by the music students.

“The whole project was being closely followed, tracked and documented by film students who produced a series of individual takes on the project.”

Students: Collaboration Across Five Programmes Combined students (163)
Course: BA Interior Design
School: Middlesex University, London
Award: Collaboration & Interdisciplinary Practice Award 24 – Winner

Do People Really Want Authenticity by Helen Perry

“‘Authentic’ is Merriam-Webster’s word of the year for 2023, and in this essay I explore what this concept means for design.

“I choose examples mainly from leisure environments and historical attractions (and their contained objects) as in these places users are particularly mindful of issues concerning authenticity.

“However, the ideas I explore could easily be applied to any field connected to architecture, interior design, product design and curation.

“I identify a close connection between authenticity and storytelling and examine the impact of true and false narratives on visitor experiences.”

Student: Helen Perry
Course: BA Interior Design
School: Chelsea College of Arts, University of the Arts London
Award: Writing Award 24 – Winner

Flips by Elissa Lee

“Flips is a spatial concept designed to adapt the function of an interior space from day to night.

“This concept arises from the closure of music venues and independent businesses, revealing an opportunity for a hairdresser and a music venue to coexist and support each other.

“Drawing from terminology in both hairdressing and music, such as mixing, cutting and turning, the design encourages collaboration of functions and radical design ideas.

“Located within the 19th century Forester’s Hall in Dundee, the space transforms seamlessly, serving as a hair salon during the day and a vibrant music venue at night, creating a dynamic environment that supports both artistic and commercial activities.”

Student: Elissa Lee
Course: BDes Interior and Environmental Design
School: Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, University of Dundee
Award: Interior Futures Award 24 – Winner (Progressing Students)

The Neighbourhood by Flora Berki

“The Neighbourhood is a transformative hotel concept that celebrates togetherness and ecological connectedness between people, nature and the site.

“Located in the old savoy cinema in the heart of Sligo town, the design draws upon an ideological approach to a greener and more connected urban environment and the desire for a sustainable shift in the hospitality sector.

“The design approach aims to create a humble background to exchange and share knowledge and an opportunity for tourists and locals to immerse in an everyday cultural experience.

“I believe that place attachment combined with the biophilic approach could transform the empty shed of scattered memories into something great, where the sense of belonging is resurrected and a sense of responsibility for our environment is developed.”

Student: Flora Berk
Course: BA Interior Architecture and Design
School: Atlantic Technological University Sligo
Award: Climate Emergency & Sustainability Award 24 – Winner (Progressing Students)

The Food Education Hub by Olya Serdyukova

“The Food Education Hub is a community-based space, designed to address the issue of insufficient diversity and quality of food places in the area by providing the users with an option to be in charge of what to eat and cook and how to treat food, as well as the ability to take that knowledge home.

“At its core, the proposal is directed at establishing a more environmentally aware space by having green zones and urban farming spaces, by hosting cooking workshops that allow people to learn how to minimise food waste, by partnering with local businesses and Scottish farmers to support a circular economy system and so forth.”

Student: Olya Serdyukova
Course: BA Interior Design
School: Glasgow School of Art
Award: Social Justice Award 24 – Winner (Progressing Students)

Peeling Away by Lucia Hencsei

“The aim for this exhibition design proposal is to create a large-scale art piece highlighting plastic pollution and food waste.

“Informative photos of waste often fail to make a significant impact, so people need to see an ‘almost’ actual amount of waste firsthand.

“To achieve this, the dome in the centre will showcase tons of recycled plastic fruits and vegetables.

“The structure, made from hundreds or even thousands of metres of biodegradable cling film with a wooden frame, mimics the movement of cling film or a peeled potato.

“This serves as a metaphor for peeling away unnecessary waste from the Earth.”

Student: Lucia Hencsei
Course: BDes Interior and Spatial Design
School: Edinburgh Napier University
Award: Craft & Making Award 24 – Winner (Progressing Students)

The Disrupted Town Hall by Abeen Sami

“Coal Drops Yard was redeveloped in 2018, after being abandoned in 2003.

“Since then, Kings Cross has been surrounded by many expensive developments.

“Despite being marketed as affordable and welcoming, the reality is different – the process of gentrification is affecting areas like Somers Town and Camley, slowly encroaching into their residential areas.

“Decisions are made by Camden council without considering the importance and attachment held by the people to these places.

“Neighbourhood forums should have dedicated spaces within a town hall to ensure that their voices, plans and ideas are heard – therefore, my project aims to disrupt the town hall, as well as Coal Drops Yard, to interject the community’s voice.”

Student: Abeen Sami
Course: BA Interior Architecture
School: Middlesex University, London
Award: Social Justice Award 24 – Winner (Completing Students)

Hair-volution by Ping Sapchartanan

“This project proposes utilising human hair waste from local salons as a biomaterial to activate a sustainable circular process, creating employment and enhancing community life in Chatham, Medway.

“The first experiment applied the technique influenced by Studio Swine, pouring bio resin over strands of human hair – the outcome product is a glossy, translucent brick that exposes the random pattern of hair strands.

“In the second experiment, I combined hair with the bio compound paste made out of agar, glycerol, cornstarch and water.

“The result is a compacted hair brick that can be moulded into different objects.

“In practice, advanced machines and facilities would be needed to produce the real material and for industrial composting.”

Student: Ping Sapchartanan
Course: BA Interior Design
School: Kingston University, London
Award: Craft & Making Award 24 – Winner (Completing Students)

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and Interior Educators. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

The post Interior Educators presents ten award-winning interior design projects appeared first on Dezeen.