Jul 16

Snøhetta adds series of rain-catching sculptures to Austin museum

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Blanton Museum of Art

Architecture studio Snøhetta has completed the redesign of the Blanton Museum of Art campus in Austin, installing massive “petal”-shaped sculptures at its centre.

First announced in 2021, the 200,000-square-foot (18,580 square metre) project includes an update to the museum’s entryways, a central courtyard, and landscape design to create a “bold new presence” for the museum, according to the team.

A museum
Snøhetta has completed an update to the campus of the Blanton Museum of Art

Located on one edge of the University of Texas at Austin, the Blanton Museum of Art encompasses two main buildings, the surrounding grounds, and Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin architectural pavilion completed in 2018.

It has a central courtyard that separates the two structures and where the primary entrances are located and sits in line with an adjacent mall leading to the Texas State Capitol complex, which is currently undergoing an overhaul.

Entrance of the Blanton Art Museum
The project includes the addition of yellow volumes at the buildings’ entrances

According to museum director Simone Wich, the outdoor space was “out of line” with a social vision of the space.

“The space served mostly as a passthrough and visitors couldn’t find our front door,” Wicha told Dezeen.

Blanton Museum of Art in Austin
Twelve “petal” shaped sculptures were placed in a central courtyard

Snøhetta was tasked with unifying and revitalising these elements – and connecting the campus to Austin at large.

To anchor the space and establish it as a social space, the studio created 10 40-foot-tall (12 metres) “petal” shade structures in the courtyard between the museum’s buildings and two more towards a drop-off area and visitor’s entrance.

Museum of Art with fanning pavilions
Perforated surfaces cast dappled light onto the ground and provide shade

Informed by the arches of the loggia that run along the museum, the structures fan out towards the top and feature a fold at the centre, spanning 30 feet (9 metres) at their widest points.

In addition to providing dappled shade through their perforated surfaces, they act as giant rain catchers, capturing water and filtering it down through the column to an underground filtration system.

“Each petal is made of perforated panels and [are] equipped with drainage that moves water from the upper canopy through the column down to grade, allowing for infiltration and passive irrigation into the surrounding subgrade,” said the team.

“The perforations of the petals, while smooth on the exterior, are raised on the inside moving water toward the drainage system.”

Green walls in building
Two elevated wooden platforms were added to the courtyard, which act as stages

The studio also updated the courtyard beneath the sculptures, adding two performance stages made of raised, wooden beds, additional seating and a large lawn behind the sculptures.

A series of elevated walkways also sit along the corner of one building, linking the courtyard to the street and additional entrances.

Yellow walls staircase
The yellow volumes sit opposite one another

25,000 new plants were added around the landscape, with the team maintaining as much of the original plantings as possible and using 95 per cent native species.

The team also inserted curved, bright yellow volumes at each of the building’s entrances, one that acts as an archway and the other, inverted, as a viewing platform over the courtyard.

“The Blanton holds a prominent place at the intersection of the new Texas Capitol Complex, and it also serves as the gateway to the university campus,” said Snøhetta co-founder Craig Dykers.

“Our inventive landscape and reimagined building entrances fulfil that promise.”

“Snøhetta’s design expands the museum’s world-class art collection beyond the museum’s galleries and creates a highly visible public place of – and for – the arts in Austin,” continued Dykers.

Blanton Museum of Art in Austin
Elevated walkways link the campus

A mural by Cuban-American artist Carmen Herrera also covers the length of one building, the artist’s largest piece.

“I knew the Blanton needed designers who could grasp both the vision for the museum and the challenges of the space, and they succeeded,” Wich told Dezeen.

“Today, not only can you find the front door, but the museum experience from start to finish is welcoming and our grounds are bustling with people enjoying the vibrancy of this art museum.”

The Blanton Museum of Art was founded in 1963 and holds Texas’ largest public collection of artworks, including modern and contemporary art, as well as a growing collection of Latin American art and prints and drawings from Europe and the US.

Other projects recently completed in Austin include a colourful interior for an office building by Mithun and housing for people transitioning out of homelessness that features a breezeway.

The images are by Casey Dunn

Project credits:

Design architect: Snohetta
Local lead architect: Architexas
Local landscape architect: Co’Design
UT project management and construction services: UT PMCS
Construction: White Construction
Civil engineers: Garza EMC
Structural engineers: AEC-WAY
MEP engineers: Jose Guerra
Lighting design: L’Observatoire International
AV/Data/Security: Datacom Design

The post Snøhetta adds series of rain-catching sculptures to Austin museum appeared first on Dezeen.

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Jul 16

This Wireless Gaming Mouse’s Charging Display Dock will put Apple’s Magic Mouse to shame

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It’s been nearly 10 years since Apple launched the infamous Magic Mouse 2 and its absurd charging port placement. While the 2-trillion-dollar company hasn’t done much to improve its flagship mouse’s design, AJAZZ launched a clever little gaming mouse with a much better charging solution. The AJAZZ AJ159 Apex mouse comes with a wireless design that’s both ergonomic and functional, but its most impressive feature is its charging dock/cradle. Designed to hold your mouse when not in use, this cradle keeps your gizmo rested at an accessible angle while it charges, but more importantly, it comes with a screen on the front that works as a tiny widget for displaying the time, date, battery level, or mouse connection status. It’s a clever solution that works elegantly and impresses too, with just a $79.99 price tag… I guess Apple could use some design inspiration.

Designer: AJAZZ

One of the highlights of the AJ159 Apex is its PixArt PAW3950 optical sensor. This sensor is known for its incredible tracking accuracy, with a maximum DPI (dots per inch) of 30,000 and a blazing-fast IPS (inches per second) tracking speed of 750. This translates to ultra-smooth cursor movements, no matter how quickly you flick your wrist across the mousepad. Additionally, the 8,000Hz polling rate ensures minimal latency between your actions and what appears on the screen. In layman’s terms, your clicks and movements will be registered almost instantaneously, giving you a crucial edge over your opponents.

Beyond raw performance, the AJ159 Apex is lightweight and durable, making it a perfect candidate for a gaming mouse. The mouse itself is incredibly lightweight, clocking in at just 56 grams. This featherweight design minimizes fatigue during extended gaming sessions and allows for effortless movements. Durability is also a focus, with Huanuo switches rated for a lifespan of 100 million clicks. These switches provide a satisfying and crisp click feel, ensuring your commands are registered accurately.

For added customization, the AJ159 Apex is QMK programmable. This open-source software allows you to tailor the mouse buttons’ functions to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prefer complex macros or simple remappings, the AJ159 Apex can adapt to your playstyle. The AJ159 Apex offers three modes: wired USB-C, 2.4 GHz wireless, and Bluetooth. This versatility allows you to choose the connection method that best suits your setup, whether you prioritize low latency or a clutter-free desk.

Perhaps the most unique feature of the AJ159 Apex is its magnetic charging dock. This innovative design not only keeps your mouse juiced up but also doubles as a storage solution. The dock even features a small display that can show relevant information or even custom GIFs. It’s a small touch, but it adds a bit of flair and functionality to the overall package.

The AJAZZ AJ159 Apex is available in four colors (black, blue, orange, and white) to suit your aesthetic preferences. With its impressive specs, user-friendly features, and innovative design, the AJ159 Apex is a strong contender for gamers seeking a high-performance and feature-rich mouse.

The post This Wireless Gaming Mouse’s Charging Display Dock will put Apple’s Magic Mouse to shame first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Jul 15

Revolutionary Prosthetic Foot achieves human-level flexibility and grip without motors or electronics

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Imagine the constant challenge of navigating everyday life without the natural flexibility of your feet. This is the reality for many amputees who rely on prosthetic feet that can feel clunky and restrictive. These prosthetics often lack the ability to adapt to uneven terrain or provide the natural push-off needed for a smooth gait. However, a groundbreaking design from the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) is poised to change the game for amputees everywhere. The SoftFoot Pro is a prototype prosthetic foot that is a literal and metaphorical leap forward in prosthetic design, mimicking the structure and movement of the human foot. Unlike conventional prosthetics that prioritize sturdiness or offer minimal flexibility, the SoftFoot Pro boasts an ingenious design that offers human-like foot flexibility and dexterity… without a single motor, servo, circuit board, or battery.

Designer: Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia

Shedding the weight and complexity of motors and electronics, the SoftFoot Pro achieves impressive functionality through a clever combination of mechanics and materials. At its core is a mobile arch mechanism, crafted from lightweight yet robust titanium or aluminum alloy. This arch connects to five parallel chains, made from high-strength plastic segments that replicate the metatarsal and phalange bones of the human foot. Elastic connectors, acting like tendons, link the segments within each chain.

The brilliance of the SoftFoot Pro lies in the details. Running through each chain is an internal steel cable that anchors to the prosthetic’s heel. This cable, along with the elastic connectors, mimics the plantar fascia – the band of tissue in the human foot that stores and releases energy with each step. This ingenious design allows the SoftFoot Pro to absorb impact, propel the user forward with a natural push-off, and even conform to uneven surfaces. This enhanced flexibility translates to greater stability and a more natural gait for users.

Weighing in at a mere 450 grams (1 pound), the SoftFoot Pro is incredibly lightweight despite its ability to support users weighing up to 100 kg (220 lbs). Initial trials conducted at Hannover Medical School and the Medical University of Vienna have yielded promising results. Amputees who participated in the trials experienced a significant improvement in their gait, with increased balance and a more natural walking experience on various terrains.

The applications of the SoftFoot Pro extend beyond human users. Researchers have also successfully tested the design on robots, including the Anymal quadruped robot and the HRP-4 humanoid robot. This versatility highlights the potential of this design to revolutionize not just prosthetics but also the field of robotics.

The post Revolutionary Prosthetic Foot achieves human-level flexibility and grip without motors or electronics first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Jul 15

8BitDo SN30 Pro Gold and Silver controllers are as heavy as they look

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It seems that we’re seeing a rather curious design trend in the gaming market. Once filled with plastic-encrusted designs, there are a few coming out with more stylish cases, be it for the device itself or for its accessories. Analogue just recently launched its CNC aluminum limited edition Pocket, but 8BitDo was actually a few steps ahead of it. Although one’s eleventh anniversary isn’t actually associated with metal (it’s Turquoise, by the way), the famed maker of throwback controllers released metal versions of its widely popular SN30 Pro, giving fans of the brand a collectible they can actually use and, in case of an emergency, even throw like a deadly weapon.

Designer: 8BitDo

Game controllers are made to be light enough not to cause hand strain but still have enough weight to feel substantial and improve gameplay. Gamers have come to expect that bulkier controllers that follow the Xbox and PlayStation designs would be heavier than most, especially controllers that are patterned after the designs of yesteryears. Not so this variant of the SN30 Pro, itself designed after the super lightweight Super Nintendo gamepad, mostly because most of its body is made of metal.

The Gold and Silver editions of the SN30 Pro aren’t just cheap paint jobs, though you might be forgiven for making that presumption given the resemblance to powder-coated metallic paint. It’s true metal, or as 8BitDo calls it, metal zinc alloy, and it’s used not just for the main body but for almost every part visible to the eyes. That includes buttons, triggers, and, yes, even the joysticks. The gold edition gets a matte paint finish while the silver version undergoes electroplating. The cables aren’t metal, though, which is probably for the best.

More than just visual oddities, the SN30 Pro Gold/Silver Edition controllers also have one other advantage over their plasticky older siblings. They’re built to last, at least more than the common controller, as metal will not warp or deform over time. It’s also less likely to crack when accidentally dropped, though you might dent this here and there. And drop it you might indeed, given how heavy it is 381g. For comparison, the normal SN30 Pro weighs a mere 114g and even the Xbox Wireless Controller is just around 287g.

Not all that glitters is gold, as they say, and despite the luster and heft of these limited edition controllers, their feature set might leave gamers sorely disappointed. They’re definitely more like functional collectors’ editions rather than serious gaming weapons (unless you throw it like one), and the $99.99 price tag definitely cements, or rather forges, that image.

The post 8BitDo SN30 Pro Gold and Silver controllers are as heavy as they look first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Jul 15

Brick and stucco meet for "harmonious flow" of Quito house

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Quito house

US studio PJC Architecture has collaborated with local studio Juan Pablo Ribadeneira Mora Arquitecto on a two-toned house with a brick base in Quito, Ecuador.

The 450-square meter (4844-square foot) Cumbaya House was completed in 2023 on a sloping 1,000-square metre (10,800-square foot) lot for a family with a penchant for entertaining.

Cumbaya House
PJCArchitecture and Juan Pablo Ribadeneira Mora Arquitecto collaborated on Cumbaya House

New York City-based PJC Architecture employed its design-build division in Ecuador, known as Make Estudio Division and architect Juan Pablo Ribadeneira Mora to create a “fluid, harmonious flow throughout their home that facilitates social interaction and outdoor relaxation”.

Informed by Ecuadorian vernacular architecture, the boxy home is oriented to the west with two rectangular forms that face the mountains in the distance. The smaller southern form was rotated slightly off-axis to create an angled foyer.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing
Floor-to-ceiling glazing and sliding glass doors appear at focal points

“Nestled in Quito’s picturesque valley, the home embraces its natural surroundings and dissolves boundaries between indoors and out,” PJC Architecture associate Nandar Godoy-Dinneen told Dezeen.

Working from an underlying metal structure, the ground level is wrapped in red brick that serves as a thermal mass, while the upper level is smooth, white stucco that reflects and mediates thermal gain.

Double-height living space
The home features a double-height living and dining room

Floor-to-ceiling glazing and sliding glass doors appear at focal points of the home, activating the corners of the walls and bringing light into the interiors.

“In addition to the passive solar design strategy, the design team incorporated a tall vertical wooden screen on the exterior porch that serves a dual purpose – simultaneously shielding the interiors from excess sun while preserving natural light,” Godoy-Dinneen said.

View to the exterior porch
This space looks out to an exterior porch

Upon entering the house through a travertine and wooden beam entry, a double-height living and dining room are to the left, looking out to an elevated exterior porch with a custom fireplace and barbecue area.

The northern half of the house includes a two-car garage, storage and service space, which are buffered from the kitchen and family room by a bedroom suite and staircase.

Bedroom
A series of bedrooms are included in the home

“One of the primary focal points is the fluid transition from the indoor living area through to the exterior porch and into the outdoor vista beyond,” Godoy-Dinneen said. “Each transitional moment is elegantly framed by the home’s structure.”

The kitchen is clad in warm wooden panelling that was custom made for the home. Madeval cabinetry pairs with Calacatta gold stone countertops and wood porcelain tiles.

Accessed via a wrapping staircase with a glass railing, the upper level is divided in half by a shared lounge space. The eastern half is composed of twin-bedroom suites, while the primary bedroom, bathroom and closet take up the rest of the floor.

“The primary bedroom suite is distinguished by its double-height ceiling that opens views to the surrounding scenery,” said the studio.

Two-toned house
The two-toned house has a brick base

Down the slope from the house, accessed by a brick staircase, sits a small concrete block that serves as a home office.

“[The office is] a concealed gem that fosters a professional ambience distinct from that of the home environment, without obstructing or disrupting the visual harmony of the house,” said Godoy-Dinneen.

Other Quito homes that have reactivated vernacular Ecuadorian brick into contemporary designs include the Slope House by El Sindicato Arquitectura that steps down a hillside with a glazed breezeway and a “non-pretentious” tiny house with two blocky forms by PJCArchitecture.

The photography is by Lorena Darquea.

Project credits:

Architecture: PJCArchitecture in collaboration with Juan Pablo Ribadeneira Mora Arquitecto
Team members: Nandar Godoy-Dinneen, Philip J. Consalvo, Juan Pablo Ribadeneira Mora
Contractor: CVD Arquitectura
Interior Designer: Magenta Arquitectura Interior

The post Brick and stucco meet for “harmonious flow” of Quito house appeared first on Dezeen.

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Jul 15

Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 (2024) Review: (Carbon) Forging Ahead

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PROS:

  • Sleek, stylish, and distinctive design

  • Best-in-class performance for 16-inch gaming laptops

  • Bright, vibrant, and beautiful 16-inch 3.2K Mini LED screen

CONS:

  • Small and cramped touchpad

  • 330W GaN charger is a gigantic brick

  • Relatively pricey

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR’S QUOTE:

The Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 continues to wrap the best performance that money can buy in a design that looks equally stunning and luxurious.

Gaming laptops are pretty much like miniature desktops on (your) legs, but their power has traditionally come at the expense of their design. The majority of these portable gaming computers are built like tanks, so when somewhat slim laptops come along, people definitely stop and take notice. Last year, Lenovo made quite a bold and ambitious move with the 8th-gen Legion 9i, a gaming laptop that was as much beauty as it was brawn. As with any other product line, the PC maker followed it up this year with the Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 (16IRX9), promising the same stunning good looks but with upgraded specs and, of course, more AI. But was Lenovo able to manage a repeat of last year’s groundbreaking success or is this the generation to pass? We give this distinctive gaming laptop a spin to see whether it flies or flops.

Designer: Lenovo

Aesthetics

If you were worried that the Legion 9i Gen 8’s design was a one-off experiment, you’d be pleasantly surprised that isn’t the case, at least not yet. Right off the bat, the Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 gives off that same eye-catching aura that makes it a mix of a rugged gaming machine and a trendsetting office laptop. The forged carbon chips are still the star of the show, at least when it comes to first impressions. Chosen for their lightweight properties, the random mix of pieces gives each laptop a unique personality. Admittedly, some might not like its camo-like design, but it’s hard to argue that it’s different from the RGB-laden black surfaces of common gaming laptops.

The die-cast magnesium chassis is still here and still 90% made from recycled materials. It gives the Legion 9i Gen 9 its light 5.51 lbs (2.49kg) weight without sacrificing its durability and structural integrity. That said, these figures must be taken in the context of other gaming laptops, not conventional notebooks like the sleek MacBook Pro. Yes, it’s relatively thin and light compared to others, but it has the unmistakable design of a gaming powerhouse. That thick extended rear is a testament not only to the variety of ports available but also to how much room Lenovo had to make to fit all those powerful components inside.

As with any gaming laptop, RGB lighting is a staple feature of the Legion 9i Gen 9, and every area is customizable and controllable, including completely turning them off, like the backlit icons for the ports on the back, for example. Aside from the keyboard, the amount and placement of lighting are tasteful and add a beautiful accent to the equally beautiful profile of the laptop without being gaudy or obnoxious. All in all, the Gen 9 gaming laptop carries on its predecessor’s title as one of the most striking of its kind.

Ergonomics

The size and weight of a gaming laptop aren’t just for bragging rights, of course. They go a long way in providing comfort and convenience, especially when carrying the computer from one place to another. Granted, the Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 is hardly the thinnest nor the lightest, but it balances portability and power quite well. You won’t have any trouble shoving it into a backpack or laptop bag, perhaps aside from the fact that it is closer to a 17-inch laptop thanks to that protruding back portion.

Using the laptop itself is quite enjoyable, especially the tactile and responsive keyboard. With a decent amount of trouble, the full keyboard layout is both pleasurable and productive, freeing you from the need to look for external numeric keypads or do finger gymnastics to get to common functions. Of course, there’s plenty of RGB lighting underneath the keys, all of them configurable. A nifty trick is how the laptop can light up the most common shortcut keys by holding down the Fn key.

Unlike most laptops, including gaming ones, the Legion 9i Gen 9’s keyboard is pushed lower, closer to the user, to make room for cooling elements. While that does mean you don’t have to extend your arm too far to reach the keys, it also means that there isn’t enough room for the touchpad. Yes, the same gripe we had with last year’s model remains unchanged this year, and we have little hope the situation will improve any time soon. Granted, many gamers will probably reach for their favorite gaming mouse anyway, but this unfortunate design decision does make the laptop feel less appealing as an all-rounder.

Performance

While the Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 hasn’t changed at all on the outside, it has a few upgraded parts inside that warrant a bump in model number. There’s the 14th-gen Intel Core i9-14900HX as well as an NVIDIA RTX 4090 graphics, both top-of-the-line as far as gaming laptops go. Our review unit was equipped with 32GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD, though other configuration exists. The biggest upgrade from last year’s model, however, is really the Lenovo LA3-P AI chip, the intelligence that fine-tunes the laptop’s performance on the fly, faster than a human could. And it’s not just some buzzword-filled AI that makes funky images or answers questions but a true demonstration of what AI can actually do for us.

In terms of performance, the Legion 9i Gen 9 doesn’t disappoint, and the AI-powered Smart FPS manages to squeeze out every bit of performance compared to, well, the Performance profile. It’s not perfect, mind, and the difference between the two isn’t that staggering. It is, hopefully, just a portent of things to come as Lenovo continues to improve its AI.

Lenovo made a rather unusual decision in choosing a 3200×2000 resolution for the screen, but this 3.2K figure works just as well in balancing quality and power efficiency. The 16-inch 165Hz Mini LED is absolutely gorgeous and bright, easily rivaling OLED displays. The refresh rate might be a bit of a letdown, but 16-inch laptops that boast 240Hz also have a lower 2K resolution.

It’s not all sunshine and roses, though, as the Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 feels like it made a few trade-offs as well. Audio, while loud, feels a little insufficient and thin. The fans can get pretty loud as well, even with the boasted true liquid cooling. That doesn’t seem to kick in often to keep temperatures consistently cool and feels more like an emergency feature when things are about to start burning up. The biggest gripe in this area is the lack of improvement in battery life, which still scores less than two hours when gaming even at medium settings. As if adding insult to injury, the fast-charging 330W GaN charger is still a literal charging brick, a veritable dangerous weapon if you ever decide to start swinging it around to clear people away from the power outlet you’ll desperately be aiming for.

Long story short, the Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 (2024) definitely delivers on its promise of big power, but the cost of that promise is also starting to show. Make no mistake, it’s the kind of power that gamers want and need, but there will be more compromises and sacrifices along the way. More importantly, the gap between it and its predecessor might not look too big, making it an even more difficult choice, as we shall see later.

Sustainability

It’s definitely encouraging to see PC manufacturers starting to make big strides in changing the formula for their laptop designs. That’s not just about the appearance but, more importantly, the materials being used. Using post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics is one thing, but reducing the use of plastic in the first place is an even more effective solution.

The Legion 9i Gen 9 doesn’t just use metal for its chassis. It uses 90% recycled metal instead of raw materials. That not only reduces material waste but also reduces energy consumption when creating fresh new metal. Lenovo is also slowly but surely improving the repairability of its products, a family trait being shared by many Lenovo laptops, not just the Legion 9i.

Value

There’s no denying that the Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 offers one of the best laptop gaming experiences in the market today, from its impressive performance to its gorgeous display to its intelligent lighting that can sync to any video or audio that’s playing. And while beauty is still in the eye of the beholder, few will argue that it commands a striking presence in any room either. It’s not without its shortcomings, but many of those can admittedly be taken for granted given how much power it offers.

The biggest hurdle to its adoption, however, will be that $3,200 price tag hanging over its head, and that’s just for the starting configuration. A maxed-out Legion 9i Gen 9 could very well cost you more than $4,000 even with a discount. Unfortunately, the 16-inch gaming laptop market has quite a few competitive entries this year as well, making the choice even harder. Fortunately, you don’t have to go far because Lenovo has quite a few offerings as well that could better fit your budget, including last year’s Legion 9i Gen 8.

Verdict

Gone are the days when gamers just took whatever kind of laptop was thrown at them just because those were the only designs possible. People have become more discerning as well as more sensitive to how their gear looks and many don’t just want some neon billboard masquerading as a laptop. The Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9, just like its predecessor, puts design on the same pedestal as performance, delivering a gaming experience that isn’t just powerful but also pleasing to look at. It doesn’t carry a rather high price tag, enough to deter some early adopters, but it’s an investment that will keep on giving long after other laptops have gone out of fashion.

The post Lenovo Legion 9i Gen 9 (2024) Review: (Carbon) Forging Ahead first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Jul 15

Ten architecture projects by students at Ajman University

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Visualisation of group of white buildings with green roofs and surrounding palm trees, water, and illuminated white lights.

Dezeen School Shows: a project exploring the future of agriculture in the UAE is included in this school show by students at Ajman University.

Also included is a care centre incorporating biophilic design elements and a football stadium intended to improve the infrastructure of Milan.

Ajman University

Institution: Ajman University
School: College of Architecture, Art and Design
Course: Graduation Project II
Tutors: Prof Sahar Sulaiman, Dr Mohammad S. Arar, Neveen El Bendary and Ayat El Khazindar

School statement:

“This course aims to finalise the students’ design education achieving excellence and mastering all parts of the architectural design process.

“The students apply the knowledge and skills that they have obtained in a comprehensive graduation project, which covers the conceptual stage, stages of development, site-related issues, structural and construction needs, social and cultural relationships and computer application in design development and presentation.”

A visualisation of an illuminated white building which sits by the sea, with a swimming pool and palm trees in front of it, and a blue sky above.

Serenity Peaks Rehabilitation Resort by Mukaram Aerabe

“The design concept draws inspiration from the pearl, symbolising the perfect blend of sea, shore and shell, capturing their inherent beauty.

“The resort, divided into public and private sectors, offers an extensive array of facilities catering to both rehabilitation and wellness.

“Guests are enveloped in a serene environment that nurtures healing and rejuvenation, with every detail carefully crafted to enhance the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature.

“Through thoughtful architecture and careful amenities, the resort provides a sanctuary where visitors can reconnect with themselves and the natural world, experiencing a holistic sense of tranquillity and balance by the sea.”

Student: Mukaram Aerabe
Tutor: Dr Sahar Kharrufa
Email: mukaaaaahmaad[at]gmail.com

A visualisation of an illuminated building in tones of blue and black, with a dark blue sky above it.

Nexus Esports Arena by Abdulrahman Aladdin Alocosh

“The Esports Gaming Arena is a futuristic architectural project designed for competitive gaming.

“Its dynamic exterior, digital displays and LED atrium create an immersive experience.

“The arena features gaming zones with top-notch equipment, spectator seating around the main stage and training facilities for professional players.

“This blend of technology and community aims to elevate the esports scene regionally and globally.”

Student: Abdulrahman Aladdin Alocosh
Tutors: Dr Mohammad S Arar and Neveen El Bendary
Email: aalocosh[at]gmail.com

A visualisation of a white building with greenery on it and surrounding it.

Zayed City Green Elderly Care by Noura Mohamed Elsayed

“Sheikh Zayed City Elderly Green Care is a prime example of biophilic architecture – the project is divided into public, semi-public and private sections, skilfully fusing natural elements like stone, wood and greenery.

“Each space is designed to enhance residents’ health, featuring large gardens, indoor plants and natural light.

“Organic materials and shapes, such as water features, curving walkways and plant-inspired patterns, foster an intimate connection with nature.

“This biophilic design promotes cognitive performance, reduces stress and improves air quality.

“The principles create a nurturing, healing environment, significantly enhancing elderly residents’ quality of life by providing profound physical and psychological benefits.”

Student: Noura Mohamed Elsayed
Tutors: Prof Sahar Sulaiman
Email: nonixxjay[at]gmail.com

Visualisation of a large white building on blue water with green trees surrounding it.

Alexandria Sunken Museum by Hisham Rashed

“The project aims to create a museum with an underwater exhibition to address the fact that Alexandria has many underwater archaeological sites as part of its historical coast.

“Therefore, this project aims to create a unique experience by taking its visitors to visit these monuments in their original underwater setting to explore the view from down under and visit different services in this unique building.

“The building includes a public auditorium for special events, an education zone and a public leisure zone.”

Student: Hisham Rashed
Tutors: Dr Mohammad S Arar and Ms Neveen El Bendary
Email: heshammoustafa13[at]gmail.com

Visualisation of an abstract white building from above with greenery surrounding it.

Smart Research Indoor Farming by Asma Abdullah Hussain Alhermoodi

“Agriculture is the starting point of living it is a hope of life from seed.

“From the beginning of the union in the UAE, Sheikh Zayed brought the idea that only palms can grow in such severe climate conditions, making agriculture essential for today’s nation.

“The building aims to revolutionise local agriculture through smart technologies and sustainable design, aiming to enhance food security in the UAE – a starting point for innovation in agriculture.

“The smart indoor framing will accommodate different technologies of farming and plant engineering, and serve as a place for hosting experts and engineers from around the world to discuss and explore the future of agriculture in labs with different research centres.

“It also features educational workshops and exhibitions to connect the people to the agriculture field and a market that will serve fresh local production.”

Student: Asma Abdullah Hussain Alhermoodi
Tutors: Dr Mohammad S Arar and Eng Ayat Elkhazindar
Email: a.alhermoodi4555[at]gmail.com

Visualisation of a white architectural model of a football stadium, against a white background.

Milano Stadium by Abdelaziz J Awad

“This project presents a new stadium concept for Milan, Italy, which is home to several football teams.

“The issue is that these teams – including AC Milan FC and Inter Milan FC – use the same venue.

“Such new development will improve the function of the city’s infrastructure and improve the experience for the people who attend these games.”

Student: Abdelaziz J Awad
Tutors: Dr Mohammad S Arar and Ms Neveen El Bendary
Email: azeezawad10[at]gmail.com

A visualisation of two buildings from above in tones of white, beige and grey, with green water and trees surrounding them.

Khuzama Centre by Lena Metrick Alshahrani

“Khuzama Centre is designed to foster cultural exchange through diverse events and activities for all ages.

“The centre features three zones: fun (sports and commercial spaces), communication (art, centre and library) and learning (auditorium).

“Enhancing the ambience are semi-indoor and indoor gardens and a roof garden to mitigate direct sunlight and improve the atmosphere.

“The design integrates Riyadh’s heritage and modern architectural identity, utilising triangular elements to reflect the city’s unique character.”

Student: Lena Metrick Alshahrani
Tutors: Dr Mohammad S Arar and Eng Ayat Elkhazindar
Email: lena.metrick1[at]gmail.com

A visualisation of a building in tones of grey, surrounded by grey coloured terrain and green trees.

Museum of Evolution by Boshra Akrin

“The Museum of Evolution is an architectural marvel inspired by clams, symbolising the cultural pearl of the city.

“This museum celebrates the diversity and history of life on Earth through captivating exhibits of dinosaurs, extinct animals, wildlife and a library.

“The design, reflecting the fluidity and grace of the sea, includes smooth, curved lines reminiscent of clams.

“Inside, the museum features an auditorium, dynamic exhibitions and lush plant displays under skylights, with offices on the top floor, while two temporary exhibition spaces offer rotating displays.

“This project tells the story of life’s development and evolution on our planet, located in Dubai’s cultural village.”

Student: Boshra Akrin
Tutors: Dr Sahar Sulaiman
Email: boshraakrin15[at]gmail.com

Visualisation of group of white buildings with green roofs and surrounding palm trees, water, and illuminated white lights.

Masfout Mountain Eco-Retreat and Wellness Spa by Dana A Binmahmood

“The concept of the Masfout Eco-Wellness Resort is to transition visitors from the vast flatlands to the rugged terrain of the Masfout mountains, to promote sustainable development and enhance community wellbeing.

“The project features a wadi-like lake, solar panels and eco-friendly materials.

“The resort includes a ground-level wellness centre and leisure area, while residential units are embedded in the terrain, offering panoramic views and immersive experiences.

“This innovative design harmonises with nature and preserves the cultural heritage of Masfout, fostering ecotourism and supporting the 2030 Masfout Development Project.”

Student: Dana A Binmahmood
Tutors: Dr Mohammad S Arar and Eng Ayat Elkhazindar

Visualisation of a white curved building among white terrain and green trees, with a pale blue sky above.

Transportation HUB, Located in Dubai, Jebel Ali by Ahmad Mazen Dawabi

“The project aims to develop a transportation hub that seamlessly integrates the futuristic Etihad Railway with the Dubai metro red line, buses and taxis, creating a multimodal transport centre that enhances connectivity and accessibility across the region – fostering smooth transitions between different modes of transport.

“The design is inspired by the aerodynamic flow of cars, trains, buses and metros, featuring sleek curves and streamlined elements.

“It creates a visually striking space that harmonises different travel methods, symbolising seamless integration and the essence of speed and efficiency.”

Student: Ahmad Mazen Dawabi
Tutors: Dr Mohammad S Arar and Neveen El Bendary
Email: ahmad.mazen4963[at]gmail.com

Partnership content

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

The post Ten architecture projects by students at Ajman University appeared first on Dezeen.

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Jul 15

Analogue Pocket is getting classy with a limited-edition Aluminum chassis

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Gaming handhelds are making quite the trend in the video game industry these days, from small DIY gadgets the size of key fobs to hulking computers crammed in a questionably portable form factor. But with the exception of the more expensive handheld PCs, the vast majority of these handheld consoles are made of plastic, at least for their bodies. Plastic, after all, is durable, lightweight, resilient, and, more importantly, cheap, and the products made with it sometimes come out feeling that way too. Once in a while, however, someone gets the idea to turn a geeky device into a glamorous product, like this aluminum-clad version of the Pocket Analogue that makes it one of the most stylish, let alone distinctive, gaming handhelds to grace the market today.

Designer: Analogue

It has been years since Analogue pulled off what can probably be considered a miracle in this industry. It launched what looks like a homage to the Game Boy, one that can actually play original Game Boy cartridges, that hasn’t hit any legal roadblocks considering how popular it is. Over the years, it has launched various limited editions of the Analogue Pocket, but this Aluminum Edition is its most ambitious one yet.

Precision CNC’d from solid billet 6061 aluminum, the limited edition Analogue Pocket Aluminum looks and feels more like a designer product than a functional gaming device, one that’s just meant to honor the original and be put on display but not used. That wouldn’t be much fun, of course, and thankfully this is not the kind of product that Analogue is putting out. It’s the same gaming experience offered by any Analogue Pocket, except now in a chassis that’s designed to really outlast those games.

If Analogue had left the Aluminum edition unfinished, it would have resulted in a striking and unique industrial aesthetic. But for those who still prefer a pinch of style and class, the limited-run gaming handheld is being offered in four anodized colors. Natural is as closest as you’ll get to that raw aluminum look, while Noir (Dark Gray) and Black both offer subdued hues. Bluish Indigo, on the other hand, stands out the most and is probably reminiscent of the transparent Atomic Purple case of the Game Boy Color.

Given its name, it probably shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Analogue Pocket Aluminum Limited Edition will be, well, limited. There’s no word on how many units will be made, but the $499.99 price tag and difficulty of machining a block of aluminum suggest there won’t be much. Judging by how fast previous limited editions disappeared, this will probably be gone before you know it.

The post Analogue Pocket is getting classy with a limited-edition Aluminum chassis first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Jul 15

On unveils sprayable trainer made with textile "there's not even a word for"

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Cloudboom Strike LS by On with LightSpray upper

Swiss brand On has unveiled the Cloudboom Strike LS trainer, which is topped with a lightweight, low-carbon upper created by spraying filament using a robotic arm and will debut at the Olympics.

The Cloudboom Strike LS is On’s first shoe that incorporates an upper made using its sprayable technology, which the company has named LightSpray.

The trainers can be produced in three minutes with the upper sprayed onto a foam-rubber and carbon fibre sole.

Cloudboom Strike LS trainer
The Cloudboom Strike LS trainer’s upper is sprayed on

“LightSpray is our new high-performance technology and the special thing is that it’s basically making an upper in only one production step using our own engineered and developed technology, fully automated, within three minutes,” said On director of innovation, technology and research Nils Altrogge.

“The upper is not knitted, weaved or other typical technologies that are used in the textile industry, it is sprayed,” he told Dezeen.

“So the resulting textile is something completely new, there’s not even a word for that.”

On sprayable running shoes
The trainers weigh 170 grams.

The lightweight upper weighs around 30 grams, with the whole trainer – which is On’s lightest – weighing 170 grams.

It will be worn at the Olympics by athletes including Kenyan marathon runner Hellen Obiri, who told the New York Times that she said “I can’t run with these” when she first saw them, due to the unusual look.

However, she went on to win the Boston Marathon earlier this year in a prototype and will now be one of several athletes wearing the trainers at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Cloudboom Strike LS by On with LightSpray upper
It is made by spraying thermoplastic filament

Rather than a standard upper that can be made from 30 to 40 components, the LightSpray upper is made from a single length of thermoplastic filament, which is sprayed onto a mould supported on a robotic arm.

According to On, this single material combined with a much-simplified manufacturing process, contributes to the trainer having “75 per cent fewer carbon emissions than On’s other racing shoes”.

The upper is connected to the midsole, which has a 40 per cent castor oil content, using thermal fusing technology rather than glue. In total, the trainer only has seven components.

Along with being much faster to create than standard uppers and producing fewer emissions, On believes that the technology has the potential to be incorporated in future circular designs.

Spraying trainer upper
The process takes three minutes

“It’s paving the way and it’s opening doors, because suddenly we are solving a lot of problems that you have we have with conventional footwear,” said Altrogge.

“The exciting thing about it is that it is made from one single filament, which is 1.5 kilometres long.”

“It is basically opening up so many options in the future; one of them is definitely its low carbon footprint – 75 per cent less than usual performance upper – and then the full automation opens the door to produce much more close to the market, anywhere anytime,” he continued.

“And in addition, because it’s only a one-piece system with a thermoplastic material that can be melted and remade, it also paves the way towards new circularity options.”

Runners wearing On trainers
The trainers was designed for performance

Although the Cloudboom Strike LS trainer results in far fewer emissions than a typical running shoe, Altrogge explained that performance had driven the design.

“Our more sustainable foam and our most sustainable upper technology are our most performant technology for the athletes,” he said.

“We have a philosophy at On with different spirits in our culture and one of them is the survivor’s spirit, which is keeping the planet always in mind. We never make the question like performance or sustainability – we believe sustainability and performance go hand in hand.”

He explained that the fast, on-site manufacturing process also allowed for rapid prototyping to create trainers based on athletes’ fit and preferences.

All of the Cloudboom Strike LS trainers are currently made at On’s headquarters in Zurich, with the brand set to demonstrate the technology to the public at a pop-up in Paris during the Olympics.

In recent years shoe brands have been innovating to create faster, lighter and less impactful trainers.

While Adidas and Nike are competing to create record-beating trainers, other brands are exploring circularity with On creating a fully recyclable trainer that is available on a subscription model, Vivobarefoot producing a prototype trainer that is 3D-printed from compostable materials and Camper unveiling a modular trainer “simple enough to assemble and disassemble by customers”.

The photography is courtesy of On.

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Jul 15

New Designers presents a diverse selection of projects in three Dezeen School Shows

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A photograph of a wooden seating structure with an angled shelter over it, made from wood and green seaweed.

Dezeen School Shows: corresponding with its annual summer show, we’ve summarised the final three of the seven School Shows published in 2024 by British design graduate showcase New Designers. They span a variety of disciplines within student design projects.

These three School Shows showcase a diverse range of student work that responds to varying modern challenges, including socio-political issues, healthcare proposals and themes of identity, as well as presenting an advanced exploration of materials and mediums.

The event showcased over 3,000 graduate students from 200 institutions across the UK, from 26 to 29 June and 3 to 6 July at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London.

Projects in the shows are by students enrolled on a vast selection of courses, presenting a range of work from contemporary product, furniture and interior designs to textiles, jewellery and ceramics pieces.

Schools and institutions that showcased work include Arts University Bournemouth, Edinburgh College of Art, University of Westminster, Glasgow School of Art and Kingston University.

A photograph of silver metal stools with blue and red legs, three are stacked on top one another and one stands alone next to them.
Every Stool by Polly Jennings

New Designers’ fifth School Show of 2024 presented a range of projects from courses including interior design, ceramics and product and furniture design, utilising advanced methodologies including ebonising ash, glass printing and 3D printing.

Outcomes vary from chairs to clothing and jewellery to animation, including projects with a political commentary and others exploring concepts of memory and socialisation.

A photograph displaying a product on a table that aids people with ADHD, it features beige coloured wood and different colours of blue, yellow, pink and green.
Tot•m by Quentin Bachelot

Polly Jennings’ Every Stool intends to promote social interactions in public spaces and encourage community, featuring a stackable and portable design crafted from welded mesh and steel rods. Jennings designed the piece whilst studying product and furniture design at Kingston University.

Whilst studying product design at Edinburgh College of Art, student Quentin Bachelot produced Tot•m, a tool for young adults with ADHD that intends to aid symptoms of stress and the inability to focus, with customisable materials and colours to ease fidgeting.

A photograph of a person standing against a pink background, wearing garments in tones of pink, orange, yellow and green.
Colourphilic by Georgie Hollingworth

The next show featured projects from various disciplines, including design crafts, transport design and illustration, with ranging inspiration from landscape and natural forms to music and video games.

Students explored a series of materials such as clay, paper and glass, making use of practices including animation and graphic design.

A photograph of a collection of transparent glasses against a grey backdrop.
Blurring the Boundaries by Charlotte Laithwaite

Colourphilic was produced by Georgie Hollingworth whilst studying textile design at University of Southampton. The project explores biophilic design within the context of contemporary textiles, combining handloom and digital techniques to convey characteristics of nature, whilst taking inspiration from the Eden Project and cathedral architecture.

Charlotte Laithwaite’s project Blurring the Boundaries investigates the playful characteristics of light when interacting with glass, creating a glassware collection that take from in unconventional shapes to encourage such interaction, both when the glass is empty and full. Laithwaite produced the project whilst studying product design and craft at Manchester School of Art.

A photograph of a wooden seating structure with an angled shelter over it, made from wood and green seaweed.
Kelpworks by Conor McArthur

The seventh and final New Designers school show saw a selection of projects from courses including jewellery design, sustainable product design and design crafts, implementing techniques such as staining glass, CAD and showcasing a prominent material usage across projects.

Work in this show analysed themes of climate change and the post-covid world, spanning mediums including film and sculpture.

A photograph of a person, standing against a white background, wearing a green and silver garment with a large transparent plastic chain draped over their shoulder.
M.A.G.P.I.E by Chantelle Folarin

Whilst studying European design at Glasgow School of Art, Conor McArthur produced Kelpworks, a project informed by material research and exploration into using seaweed as an alternative to leather. The outcome takes form as a sheltered seating structure, composed of reclaimed wood and seaweed panelling, challenging the use of conventional materials through a sustainable lens.

Chantelle Folarin’s M.A.G.P.I.E presents further material exploration from the observation of humans’ natural affinity to be drawn to bright and reflective materials, with a woven collection of collected and discarded objects. Folarin produced the project whilst studying textile design at Birmingham City University.

New Designers took place from 26 to 29 June and 3 to 6 July at the Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, London, N1 0QH. See Dezeen Events Guide for a list of other architecture and design events taking place around the world.

Partnership content

These projects are presented in school shows from institutions that partner with Dezeen. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

The post New Designers presents a diverse selection of projects in three Dezeen School Shows appeared first on Dezeen.

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