Eggnest offers sustainable refuge for butterflies

Butterflies are probably some of the most beautiful creatures around. We see them used as decoration, for stationery, dresses, and other visual representation. But more than just looking aesthetic, they fulfill an important role in nature. They are essential pollinators and bioindicators, reflecting the health of ecosystems. But because of some factors in urban environments like artificial lighting, pollution, and limited green spaces, their habitats and even their natural behaviors are disrupted. There is a 53% global decline in butterfly populations so we need to be concerned or else we’ll eventually lose these beautiful creatures.

Designers: Chaewon Lee, Zay Kim, Jungmin Park

EggNest is an innovative urban habitat aimed at supporting these vital pollinators. It seeks to mitigate the issues butterflies face by providing a dedicated shelter within city landscapes. is constructed from a mixture of crushed eggshells and soil, materials chosen for their natural, biodegradable properties.The rough texture of the eggshells offers butterflies a secure surface to cling to, even in breezy conditions.This design not only repurposes waste but also creates a conducive environment for butterfly habitation. The utilization of advanced 3D-printed molds allows EggNest to take on a precisely engineered curved form. This curvature is not merely aesthetic; it plays a crucial role in passively retaining solar heat, creating a warmer internal environment that butterflies prefer, especially during cooler periods.

The enclosed nature of the curve offers a degree of protection against airborne predators such as birds or larger insects, providing a safer space for butterflies to rest and potentially lay eggs. The modularity of the design is another key advantage, enabling the EggNest units to be stacked vertically, creating multi-tiered butterfly havens, or arranged horizontally across diverse urban terrains like walls, rooftops, or even within existing green spaces. This adaptability ensures that the EggNest can be integrated into a wide variety of cityscapes, regardless of spatial limitations. Thoughtful spacing between individual units is also incorporated into the design. These gaps are essential for promoting natural airflow, preventing stagnant conditions and regulating internal temperature. Furthermore, these spaces are designed to encourage the growth of climbing plants and moss, allowing vegetation to naturally intertwine with the structure. As these plants flourish, they contribute to a self-sustaining micro-ecosystem within and around the EggNest, attracting butterflies with nectar-rich flowers and providing further shelter and camouflage amongst the foliage.

This integrated approach not only directly supports butterfly populations by offering food sources and secure resting spots but also contributes to the overall biodiversity of the urban environment, fostering a more ecologically balanced and vibrant coexistence between human development and the natural world. EggNest represents more than just a visually interesting addition to our cities. It’s a proactive step towards nurturing biodiversity and acknowledging the crucial role even the smallest creatures play in our shared ecosystem. By offering a haven amidst the concrete jungle, EggNest not only aids in the conservation of declining butterfly populations but also fosters a greater appreciation for nature within urban communities. Embracing and implementing such innovative solutions can pave the way for a future where our cities and the natural world can thrive together, ensuring that the delicate beauty of butterflies continues to grace our urban landscapes for generations to come.

The post Eggnest offers sustainable refuge for butterflies first appeared on Yanko Design.

"Biohybrid” robots controlled by mushrooms respond to light

Biohybrid mushroom robot

Cornell researchers have developed a pair of small robots powered by mycelium designed for use in agriculture and space exploration.

The researchers, led by Anand Mishra, a professor at Cornell Engineering, discovered a way to grow mycelium into the electronics of a robot.

They then powered the robots by harnessing the fungi’s innate electrical signals.

The resulting “biohybrid” robot can sense and respond to the environment better than a fully synthetic counterpart.

Mushroom-controlled robot
Cornell researchers have developed a robot that can be controlled by mushrooms

“You could say that mycelium bridges the natural ecosystem and the engineering world, serving as a living interface that connects biology with technology,” Mishra told Dezeen.

Mycelium has several advantages, according to Mishra. It is “remarkably resilient” and can survive in some of the harshest conditions on the planet, including the Arctic, saline waters, and even radioactive settings.

Unlike synthetic robots, mycelium can also naturally respond to a variety of environmental cues, like light.

The team has built two robots: a soft robot that can walk like a spider, and a wheeled bot that can roll.

Both robots can sense soil chemistry in crops, decide when to add more fertiliser, and broadly speaking, gather environmental data to better understand agricultural ecosystems to help predict crop yield.

“We also believe this technology could have exciting applications in space exploration, where sustainable, self-sensing, and adaptive systems are especially valuable,” said Mishra, who is also a research associate at Cornell’s Organic Robotics Lab.

In a recent study, the researchers made the robots move and change their gait by shining UV light on their “head”. They are now exploring other inputs.

Since fungi are living organisms, they naturally respond to a variety of environmental cues to survive and adapt,” said Mishra.

This inherent responsiveness makes them particularly promising for biohybrid systems.

The research is similar to prior innovations, where scientists have built machines that can interact with their environment or regulate their temperature through sweating. Some of these robots also incorporate living materials like cells from muscle tissue, but scientists say it’s difficult to keep these systems alive.

So far, the Cornell team has managed to keep mycelium alive for over a month without changing the nutrients the mycelium needs to grow.

Mishra believes that it’s possible to sustain the fungi for years, “making them an excellent candidate for long-term biohybrid systems”.

Mycelium has been the subject of various innovations.

Recently, a team of Rhode Island School of Design students and researchers created floating planting beds made of a mycelium biomaterial to cleanse waterways of pollutants, while Gob launched compostable, mycelium earplugs as an alternative to the 40 billion plastic earplugs produced each year.

The post “Biohybrid” robots controlled by mushrooms respond to light appeared first on Dezeen.

Basic Geometric Forms in This Sunset-Inspired Table Lamp

This beautiful Horizon Table Light is by Brooklyn-based industrial designer Louis Filosa.

Two basic shapes and the judicious use of negative space create a pleasing form that draws the eye.

Its form inspired by the setting sun, the LED lamp has a warm temperature of 2700K and is, appropriately, dimmable.

The Horizon is in production by lighting manufacturer Gantri, who makes their products from non-GMO sugarcane-based polymers.

Lightweight Stone-Like Furniture by Karim Rashid and Zachary A. Design

These Polli monolithic outdoor furniture pieces were designed by Karim Rashid and Zachary A. Design, a Chicago-based manufacturer of sculptural furniture.

The Polli line appears to be made out of stone, but they’re actually a proprietary blend of resin, stone aggregate and fiberglass; company founder Zachary Bitner, a furniture designer and SCAD grad, began experimenting with the mixture in the 2000s. The resultant pieces are all-season weatherproof and, unlike stone or concrete, lightweight enough that the pieces are easy to move.

The apostrophe-shaped backless version weighs 27 pounds, and the backed version isn’t much more at 35 pounds.

Each seat is available in both left- and right-oriented versions.

They’re made-to-order in Chicago, and available in a variety of colors.

Nebula X1 Portable Projector with Liquid-Cooling Brings 4K Power to Outdoor Screenings

Movie nights are no longer confined to living rooms, thanks to the rise of portable projectors that can deliver big-screen thrills almost anywhere. Whether it’s a backyard campout, an impromptu rooftop screening, or a night under the stars at the park, more people are discovering the joy of taking cinema outdoors. Still, for all their promise, most compact projectors tend to fall short when it comes to both brightness and performance.

Many portable projectors struggle to match the image quality or reliability of their bulkier, wired counterparts. Overheating is a common issue, leading to dimmer images and lagging sound. The Nebula X1, however, shakes things up with a solution rarely seen outside high-end home theater gear: integrated liquid cooling. This clever cooling system keeps temperatures under control, letting the projector run at peak performance without breaking a sweat.

Designer: Nebula

What’s truly impressive about the Nebula X1 is its triple-laser setup, which delivers sharp 4K UHD visuals and supports Dolby Vision. With a powerful 3,500 ANSI lumens, this little projector can easily light up a 300-inch screen, making it perfect for movie-loving adventurers who want crisp, bright visuals in any setting. Even with all this muscle, the projector remains compact and easy to carry wherever your next screening takes you.

The use of liquid cooling in a portable projector is a genuine breakthrough. Previously, this kind of thermal management was reserved for premium projectors that never left the home or office. By bringing the technology to the X1, Nebula ensures the projector stays cool during long viewing sessions, even when working hard to display vivid colors and deep contrast in 4K resolution.

Sound is another area where the X1 refuses to compromise. Its four internal side-firing speakers create a rich, room-filling audio experience, perfect for sharing with friends outdoors. For those who want even more, Nebula offers a pair of wireless 80W satellite speakers. These speakers, each with its own built-in battery, connect via Wi-Fi for a stable, high-quality sound connection, freeing you from the limits of Bluetooth pairing.

The Nebula X1 is poised to transform how people think about portable projectors. With advanced cooling, a triple-laser engine, and thoughtful audio options, it brings premium movie-watching to patios, parks, and beyond. Movie lovers can finally enjoy massive, vibrant pictures and immersive sound without worrying about overheating or dull visuals, wherever the night leads.

The post Nebula X1 Portable Projector with Liquid-Cooling Brings 4K Power to Outdoor Screenings first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Automotive Designs Of March 2025

In March, we witnessed a showcase of creativity and technical prowess in the automotive world. Designers and engineers have pushed the boundaries of aesthetics and function, resulting in vehicles that look amazing and also introduce real innovation. From electrified lounges to off-road warriors, timeless luxury to futuristic eVTOL prototypes, this month’s releases offer a glimpse into the future of mobility. We have curated a collection of the ten best automotive designs that truly stood out in March 2025.

March 2025 has demonstrated that automotive design is as much about innovation and storytelling as it is about transportation. These ten vehicles—spanning electric luxury, rugged off-roaders, airborne prototypes, and artistic bespoke commissions—each bring something unique to the table.  There is a design here to spark your imagination and redefine your expectations for the future of mobility.

1. Fordzilla Hypervan

The Fordzilla Hypervan is an electrified dune buggy that looks like it’s been plucked straight from a sci-fi blockbuster. Drawing inspiration from reptilian creatures and finished in menacing matte black highlighted by vivid orange accents, the Hypervan is as bold as it is functional. Its design is unmistakable, with gull-wing glass doors that fuse with the panoramic windshield and roof, giving the interior a sense of openness and drama.

Under the skin, the rear-mounted battery hints at its rear-wheel-drive roots, promising engaging handling both on and off the pavement. The elevated rear end provides extra downforce, keeping the Hypervan stable at high speeds while maintaining agility on sandy or urban terrain. Every detail—from the aggressive stance to the innovative use of glass—emphasizes performance and personality.

What we like

  • The Hypervan’s aggressive, futuristic styling ensures it stands out wherever it goes.
  • Built for both urban and off-road environments, it offers a unique blend of fun and functionality.

What we dislike

  • Its outlandish design may not suit everyone, limiting its mainstream marketability.
  • The extensive use of glass, while stylish, could lead to challenges with glare or privacy.

2. Mercedes-Benz Vision V Concept

Mercedes-Benz has reimagined what it means to travel in luxury with the Vision V, a concept that transforms the traditional boundaries of both limousines and multipurpose vehicles. The Vision V represents a bold step into uncharted territory, delivering a vehicle that merges the comfort and indulgence of a lounge with the practicality of a family van.

The exterior is a study in sculptural elegance, with flowing contours and dynamic lighting signatures that signal refinement from a distance. Step inside, and you’re greeted with a marvel of interior architecture. The cabin is designed as an open, seamless space, featuring plush seating, exquisite wood and metalwork, and a retractable cinema screen paired with an immersive Dolby Atmos audio system.  It is created for a diverse audience, from business professionals looking for a mobile workspace to families seeking a serene road trip experience, and even gamers desiring a rolling entertainment hub.

What we like

  • The Vision V’s interior is a masterclass in comfort and craftsmanship, boasting high-end materials, a cinema-quality entertainment system, and thoughtful touches throughout.
  •  This concept appeals to a broad spectrum of users, seamlessly shifting between executive transport, family trips, and recreational activities.

What we dislike

  • With its level of sophistication and luxury, the Vision V will likely command a premium price, putting it out of reach for many.
  • Its size and lavish features may make it less suited for tight urban environments or those seeking a more utilitarian vehicle.

3. Project Safari

Few cars evoke the pure joy of driving like the original Lotus Elise S1, but Project Safari takes this classic and reinvents it for a new kind of enthusiast. Created by motorsports photographer-turned-builder GF Williams, Project Safari transforms the Elise into an off-road-ready rally machine, blending nostalgia with rugged capability.

The most noticeable change is the elevated ride height—a 100mm lift that signals its intent to tackle rough terrain. The underbody is armored for protection, while the oversized fenders accommodate grippy all-terrain tires. The front end swaps out the Elise’s iconic round headlights for rectangular units, giving the car a fierce, rally-inspired face.

What we like

  •  The lifted suspension and reinforced chassis allow the Elise to handle rough terrain with surprising agility.
  • The restomod’s aggressive styling and rally touches make it truly stand out from both classic Elises and modern off-roaders.

What we dislike

  • While built for adventure, the stiffer suspension and beefy tires may reduce comfort during everyday drives.
  • Traditionalists may balk at such a radical departure from Elise’s original ethos.

4. Corvette EV Concept

General Motors has taken an exciting leap with its latest Corvette concept, reinterpreting one of America’s most beloved sports cars for the age of electrification. The Corvette EV concept ditches its legendary V8 for a cutting-edge electric drivetrain, yet retains the low-slung, aggressive silhouette that defines the Corvette lineage. Rather than relying on nostalgia, the design language is forward-looking, sleek, and suitably futuristic.

Built on GM’s advanced Ultium platform, the Corvette EV promises a blend of performance and efficiency that honors its heritage while embracing the future. The battery-integrated chassis provides a rock-solid foundation, with the electric motors delivering instant torque and precise handling. The likely all-wheel-drive configuration ensures that power is delivered seamlessly, whether accelerating in a straight line or carving through corners

What we like

  • Electric propulsion brings explosive acceleration and razor-sharp handling, taking the Corvette experience to new heights.
  • The concept’s styling is fresh and daring, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences.

What we dislike

  • The absence of the iconic V8 roar may disappoint purists who equate the Corvette with visceral engine notes.
  • Some traditionalists might see the shift to electric as a betrayal of the Corvette’s legacy.

5. Mustang eBike

To celebrate the Mustang’s 60th anniversary, Ford has taken an unexpected turn by launching an electric bike rather than a special car. The Mustang eBike 60th Anniversary Edition channels the spirit of the legendary pony car into a sleek and powerful two-wheeler. Dressed in Rangoon Red with period-accurate badges and a commemorative plaque, this limited-edition eBike is a blend of automotive nostalgia and next-generation technology.

At the heart of the Mustang eBike is a robust 750W rear hub motor, generating a punchy 63 lb-ft of torque and propelling the bike to a top assisted speed of 28 mph. The high-capacity 720Wh battery offers up to 60 miles of range, making it suitable for both city commutes and weekend adventures. With four selectable power modes, riders can tailor the experience to their needs, balancing performance with battery conservation.

What we like

  • The Mustang eBike delivers strong acceleration and a generous range, making it practical and fun.
  • The styling pays homage to the original Mustang, appealing to both cyclists and automotive enthusiasts.

What we dislike

  • As a special edition, supply will be restricted, potentially leaving many fans empty-handed.
  • Those expecting a car may be disappointed by the shift to a two-wheeled format.

6. Dongfeng M-Hunter

The Dongfeng M-Hunter is a masterclass in functional design, eschewing the polished curves of modern SUVs for a raw, purpose-driven aesthetic. This 4×4 doesn’t try to hide its ruggedness—instead, it puts it on full display. The M-Hunter’s exoskeletal frame looks more at home on a wilderness expedition than a city street, with prominent tubular structures that double as both protection and mounting points for gear.

With approach and departure angles rivaling the best off-roaders in the world, and ground clearance that dares you to find its limits, the M-Hunter is built for adventure. It’s capable of fording deep water and shrugging off punishing terrain, thanks to thoughtful engineering and minimalist design. This is automotive brutalism at its finest—every element serves a purpose, and nothing is superfluous.

What we like

  • With outstanding ground clearance and approach angles, the M-Hunter is ready for the toughest environments.
  • The exposed frame and minimalist approach make it a standout in a crowded SUV market.

What we dislike

  • The brutalist design may not resonate with buyers seeking more traditional or luxurious appearances.
  • Its hardcore nature could make it less comfortable for everyday driving or urban use.

7. Cyclotech Blackbird

The Cyclotech Blackbird isn’t your typical eVTOL. Rather than using conventional propellers, it employs six Cyclorotors—rotating barrels fitted with adjustable blades, enabling precise control and stability. At just 750 pounds, the current prototype is more of a demonstrator than a passenger vehicle, but it represents a radical shift in how flying cars might operate shortly.

The genius of the Blackbird lies in its ability to instantly redirect airflow, giving it micro-adjustments and maneuverability previously unseen in vertical flight. Unlike helicopters or drones, which rely on spinning blades or tilting rotors, the Blackbird’s engines can shift thrust direction on the fly. This enables the craft to hover steadily in turbulent conditions, move laterally without banking, and execute complex maneuvers in tight spaces.

What we like

  • The Cyclorotor system offers exceptional control and hovering capabilities, even in challenging wind conditions.
  • The unique rotor arrangement could allow for smaller, more urban-friendly air vehicles in the future.

What we dislike

  • The Blackbird is still an experimental platform, so real-world application and scalability remain unproven.
  •  As a demonstrator, it currently offers no seating, limiting its practical use for now.

8. Rolls-Royce Phantom Cherry Blossom

The Rolls-Royce Phantom Cherry Blossom is a stunning testament to the power of bespoke design. Commissioned by a discerning client with a passion for Japanese culture, this one-of-a-kind Phantom is a rolling work of art, capturing the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms in a form meant to endure for generations.

The exterior, finished in a subtle blend of Crystal and Arctic White, is adorned with a hand-painted coachline that culminates in a delicate cherry blossom motif. But it’s the interior that takes your breath away—a ceiling embroidered with 250,000 stitches depicts cherry branches in bloom, while the motif extends to the rear doors and privacy partition, creating a tranquil, immersive environment.

What we like

  • Every detail is meticulously crafted to the client’s vision, showcasing the highest level of personalization in luxury motoring.
  • The design is a permanent tribute to the beauty of the cherry blossom season, blending art and engineering.

What we dislike

  • As a unique commission, it’s unattainable for most, reinforcing its status as a piece of art rather than a production vehicle.
  • The understated paintwork may not immediately signal the artistry contained within, appealing mostly to those who appreciate subtlety.

9. S/Rapide

The S/Rapide by Angell is making waves in the e-bike world as one of the lightest electric bikes available, engineered to revolutionize the daily commute. This innovative e-bike is crafted with city living in mind, offering a swift, eco-friendly, and highly enjoyable way to navigate crowded urban environments. What sets the S/Rapide apart is its featherweight construction and its array of intelligent features designed for modern commuters.

Riders benefit from an integrated touch screen that provides real-time information, including speed, battery status, and even local pollution levels. The handlebars have a vibration feature to offer navigation cues, while the customizable display allows users to tailor their ride experience with GPS guidance and other commute data. Beyond its smart technology, the S/Rapide carries a minimalistic yet sophisticated aesthetic, ensuring it looks as good as it performs.

What we like

  • Exceptionally lightweight build paired with advanced smart technology for a seamless and enjoyable commute.
  • Actively helps reduce the environmental footprint by lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

What we dislike

  • Not well-suited for off-road adventures or rough terrain due to its urban-oriented design.
  • The abundance of advanced features may present a learning curve for users unfamiliar with high-tech e-bikes.

10. TWR Supercat

The TWR Supercat, crafted by the renowned Tom Walkinshaw Racing, breathes new life into the legendary Jaguar XJS by fusing classic elegance with cutting-edge performance. Revealed at a pivotal moment when Jaguar is preparing for a fully electric lineup, the Supercat stands as a passionate homage to the brand’s storied heritage in motorsport. Its design pays tribute to legendary racing icons like the XJR-15 and XJ220, seamlessly blending aggressive aerodynamic lines with unmistakable Jaguar refinement.

Underneath its striking carbon fiber shell lies a beastly supercharged 5.6-liter V12 engine, meticulously tuned by TWR’s expert engineers. This formidable powerplant churns out a staggering 660 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque, ensuring that the Supercat offers both speed and exhilaration in abundance. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, inviting true driving enthusiasts to experience the thrill of raw, unfiltered performance.

What we like

  • Exceptional performance, thanks to a powerful supercharged V12 and manual gearbox, delivering a pure and engaging driving experience.
  • Distinctive design that honors Jaguar’s racing roots while introducing advanced materials like carbon fiber for modern appeal.

What we dislike

  • The focus on high performance and classic engineering may limit its relevance as Jaguar moves towards an all-electric future.
  • Exclusivity and specialized engineering likely make it expensive and inaccessible for the average enthusiast.

The post 10 Best Automotive Designs Of March 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Air table light by Humble Lights

Air table light by Humble Lights

Dezeen Showroom: this simple and elegant table lamp was created by Dutch design brand Humble Lights to sit as harmoniously on a home bookshelf as it does on a restaurant table.

Humble Lights intended for the compact Air table light to be both subtle and sophisticated, with a undersized capped lampshade in either gold or bronze metal combined with smoked or frosted glass.

Air table light by Humble Lights
The Air table light has a slim and compact design

Wireless and rechargeable, the LED lamp is also designed for versatility, with a water-resistant IP65 rating, three-step dimmer and simple controls that can either be operated from the lamp’s base or remotely.

The remote control can turn up to 100 of the lamps on and off, making Air suitable for hospitality and commercial settings.

Air table light by Humble Lights
It is available in a range of finishes

The lamp boasts a battery life of up to 100 to 140 hours when used on the low setting, and 20 to 28 when used on high. Recharging is possible either through the included USB-C cable or by purchasing a charging station.

The Air table lamp is made available through US design distributor Ameico, which also has offices in London, Zurich and Tokyo.


Product details:

Product: Air
Brands: Humble Lights, Ameico
Contact: lighting@ameico.com

Materials: aluminum, polycarbonate
Colours/finishes: Gold, Bronze, Gold/Smoked, Gold/Frosted, Bronze/Smoked, Bronze/Frosted
Dimensions: 99 x 99 x 260 millimetres

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Mercedes-Benz unveils luxury van with integrated chess board and karaoke mode

Vision V concept van by Mercedes-Benz

German carmaker Mercedes-Benz is hoping to redefine vans as luxury VIP shuttles with its Vision V concept, unveiled this week at the Auto Shanghai motor show.

Unveiled yesterday, Vision V features a roomy cabin, accommodating two fully reclining seats upholstered in white Nappa leather and a retractable 65-inch screen with integrated gaming controllers.

Vision V concept van by Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz unveiled its Vision V at the Shanghai motor show

Mercedes-Benz Vans will use the concept as a blueprint for future production models, ushering in a “new era” for the brand.

“This show car embodies the perfect harmony between luxury and van design, setting a new benchmark for the future,” said Mercedes-Benz Group‘s chief design officer Gorden Wagener.

Interior of luxury van by Mercedes-Benz
The van features a spacious cabin styled like a “private lounge”

The concept car is centred around the cabin, which Mercedes-Benz likens to a “private lounge” with an “enormous amount of space”.

Integrated “display cabinets” finished in glass, burr wood and polished aluminium can be used to hold personal items as well as holding gaming controllers and some of the car’s 42 speakers.

Reclining seats in luxury van
Its white leather seats can recline entirely

Rendered in the same material palette, the central console hides a custom room fragrance bottle and a fold-out table that doubles as a chessboard should the need to play arise mid-journey.

It also includes a touchpad to operate the van’s integrated infotainment, which is the real star of the show.

A retractable 65-inch cinema screen automatically glides up through transparent slats in the floor once passengers are seated.

The van’s side windows can become additional screens, seven projectors helping to expand the field of vision when watching films or gaming.

Chess set in Vision V concept
A chess board is integrated into the centre console

Some of the van’s 42 speakers “protrude stylishly” from the side walls while others are embedded in the seats to provide tactile feedback while listening to music, accompanied by lighting that responds to the beat.

Other settings include karaoke mode and relax mode, in which a calming landscape moves across the screen to soft music.

Person gaming in V concept van
Passengers can use integrated controllers for gaming

The glass wall separating the cabin from the chauffeur can be turned from transparent to opaque, either entirely or in sections, using liquid crystals that are aligned using electrical voltage.

Illuminated glass louvres help to define the van’s exterior details, framing the headlights and decorating the chrome radiator grille and 24-inch wheels.

Exterior of Vision V concept van by Mercedes-Benz
More than 400 illuminated glass louvres form the taillights and brake lights

More than 400 of these louvres also encircle the van’s rear end to serve as taillights and brake lights.

Other unusual concept cars that have recently featured on Dezeen include a “mini-supercar” from Renault with motors in its wheels and Jaguar’s controversial Type 00.

The Shanghai motor show, known as Auto Shanghai, takes place from 23 April to 2 May 2025. See Dezeen Events Guide for an up-to-date list of architecture and design events taking place around the world.

The post Mercedes-Benz unveils luxury van with integrated chess board and karaoke mode appeared first on Dezeen.

"The days of dressing up superfluous stuff and placing it amid vapid installations surely need to stop"

Milan design week There Is No Planet B

This year’s Milan design week was a noisy assault on the mind that often felt light on substance and heavy on commercial opportunism, writes Max Fraser.


For as long as I’ve been attending Milan design week, I’ve contended with two conflicting emotions: that which gets a buzz from the influx of creative novelty, and that which struggles with the unapologetic onslaught of new stuff.

Usually I’ve managed to inhibit that latter feeling. This year I struggled.

The annual gathering of the international design community in Milan is truly a phenomenon unseen elsewhere, and one of the most concentrated moments of publicly accessible creative expression. The sheer amount of time and effort that goes into delivering the many design presentations is impressive. And the fear of missing the best of them is real.

It has become one of the most exploited, noisy and over-subscribed moments in the calendar

By virtue of this, it has also become one of the most exploited, noisy and over-subscribed moments in the calendar. It would seem everyone wants a piece of the action. Perhaps that was always inevitable – what company wouldn’t want to boost its brand perception in front of a potential audience of hundreds of thousands of local and international design enthusiasts?

The mass influx of visitors is generously absorbed by the host city of Milan each year; due to the vast economic boost it brings, it’s a disruption the municipality embraces, the citizens tolerate and others exploit.

Notably, the price of mediocre accommodation is inflated for the week, often to absurd levels. For those considering attending on their own dime, I’m sure many have been pushed out by the costs.

But the expense isn’t a new phenomenon. What is new is the arrival of a vastly different demographic of both exhibitors and visitors.

The week was once a key moment for mostly European producers of furniture and interior products to showcase their objects in a trade fair environment. More experimental design found its forum in unusual settings around the city. The avant garde of objects has always attracted the cool and the discerning, marking Milan as the key setting for the trends of the year ahead.

Understandably others want a slice of that cool cake. For many years now, the week has been commandeered by a broad swathe of related industries, including fashion, art, beauty, technology and automotive. Big consumer brands are great at identifying and hooking onto key hotspots to “activate”. Milan design week has definitively become the hottest target for those looking to broaden their market penetration.

I met one executive who was thrilled that people had to wait two hours to get into their show

As more big-budget presentations have arrived, all participants have had to shout louder to be noticed. Every form of media has been steadily amplified and ballooned into an unwieldy citywide marketing frenzy.

The stakes are high. Significant investment is required to commission big-name designers, implement high production values, pump out marketing campaigns, hire impressive venues and also staff them. Success seems to be marked by popularity and amplification, rather than a tangible boost to the bottom line.

Indeed, there is nothing more visceral than a queue of punters snaking around the block to represent success. Marketing directors are able to report that their multi-million euro presentation of brand ideology had huge influence. I met one such executive who was thrilled that people had to wait two hours to get into their show. But for the rest of us, the experience is frustrating and boring, to say the least.

As a member of the press, a perk of my job is being able to jump those queues via a dedicated media lane. This privilege affords me a quick zip around any of the over-subscribed events. For the most part, my reaction to said event would vary between indifferent to positive, depending how interesting/beautiful/well-crafted/fun it was, even if I may have departed somewhat puzzled by the core intent.

However, with every minute that one waits in a queue, one’s expectations increase. Had I waited two hours for entry, I’d likely have departed agitated, perhaps even angry at the unfulfilling consumption of my time, feeling duped by the hype.

This year, those eager to bypass the queues had often made the effort to pre-register for specific timeslots, only to find out that everyone else had done too, and they still had to wait.

Surface-level designs were aplenty, of the “just because you can doesn’t mean you should” variety

All of this leaves me wondering what spell has been cast on us that we so willingly expend our valuable time dedicated to what is, as design strategist Kuan Chi Hau put it in a LinkedIn post, a form of “brand tourism”.

Fashion brands in particular seem to have perfected the recipe: dangle the carrot of some kind of free gift to eek out an audience, make them wait, give them a selfie moment and then insult them with a free perfume sample as they leave. Fuelling it are Instagram accounts such as Milano da Scrocco, dedicated to the venues where you can find free stuff during the week.

But the days of dressing up superfluous stuff and placing it amid vapid installations in exceptionally beautiful spaces surely need to stop. It feels like a trick and it’s an assault for it to saturate our brains. The never-ending iterations of gregarious, materially intense, hyper-luxurious furniture dressed up in nonsensical marketing language is exhausting.

The noise – visual, audible, mental – puts great strain on one’s propensity to delve deeper than the superficial. And surface-level designs were aplenty, of the “just because you can doesn’t mean you should” variety.

I found myself craving unfussy, simple, well made, functional commercial designs. The kind that you can imagine real, honest, everyday people wanting to own. These sorts of products can still be found at Salone del Mobile, Milan’s trade fair. But yes, many of the mega-brand fortresses there also have queues.

For all my misgivings about Milan design week in 2025, it should never be forgotten that there are still so many carefully considered, materially sensitive, socially and environmentally relevant creations to admire and learn from. There are still quiet, nuanced, delicate presentations in unexpected locations to seek out.

So much of the important stuff is getting drowned out, pushed aside by the prevailing hype machine

There are still hundreds of cross-cultural conversations to enjoy with some of the most imaginative talents in the business and there is still business to be done. There are still opportunities to knock heads together and put the world to rights over cappuccinos, gelato or negronis.

There are still everyday Milanese eager to engage in some spectacle, have a fun day out and broaden their understanding of design. And as much as I’ve come to dislike the word “immersive”, there is still the occasional immersive experience that can tickle the imagination.

The problem is that so much of the important stuff is getting drowned out, pushed aside by the prevailing hype machine. I doubt this noise will dwindle much next year.

Meanwhile, the same roster of big-name designers and big-name brands continue to dominate. Any hope of reaching those lofty heights must feel unattainable to young and emerging designers today.

Beyond the selfies, the posturing, the queues, the fancy stuff and a fair amount of chatter about US tariffs, one thing jarringly missing from the conversation was design’s responsibility to reduce its environmental impact. Sure, the word “sustainability” continues to be thrown around the place but any substantive change, or rallying calls to action, were few and far between.

Towards the end of the week, I chanced upon a symbolic sight: only metres from yet another enormous queue was a largely neglected mural proclaiming “There is no planet B”. It had been brandished with a flyposter for a nearby pop-up perfume giveaway from a luxury fashion label.

Smart guerilla marketing or opportunistic vandalism? Or perhaps a sour reminder of just how little attention we’re paying to the most pressing existential issue of our time?

Max Fraser is editorial director of Dezeen.

The photo is by Max Fraser.

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The post “The days of dressing up superfluous stuff and placing it amid vapid installations surely need to stop” appeared first on Dezeen.

Stuart Semple replicates newly discovered colour with "very weird glowy teal" paint

Stuart Semple

British artist Stuart Semple says that he “pulled an all-nighter” to create his Yolo paint in a colour that imitates one a group of American scientists claim to have just discovered.

Semple, who previously developed the “flattest, mattest, black acrylic paint in the world”, made the paint to replicate the colour scientists at the University of California recently announced as a new hue that no one had ever seen before.

To find the colour the researchers fired laser pulses into their eyes to stimulate individual cells in their retinas, pushing their perception beyond its natural limits.

This revealed to them a blue-green colour that they named Olo, which was documented in the Science Advances journal earlier this month.

Yolo by Stuart Semple
Stuart Semple claims to have developed paint to match the scientists’ recently discovered colour

Semple told Dezeen that he “ran into the studio, pulled an all-nighter in the lab and made Yolo” – a paint version of the new colour.

The artist said that he used the spectral information detailed in the scientific paper to understand what he was aiming for before combining pigments with different materials.

Using a spectrometer, an instrument that separates light into colours, Semple measured his progress and added his own fluorescent optical brighteners to the paint to “get into that sweet spot of the colour space”.

“What I got was a very weird kind of glowy teal,” he said. “I also played a lot with the surface texture of the paint to enable time to narrow the bandwidth of the light coming off the paint.”

Yolo colour
The artist “pulled an all-nighter” for his project

The artist described Yolo as the closest possible physical emulation of Olo.

“Of course it’s not a patch on having a real laser pushed in your eye,” he acknowledged. “But I’m sure it’s closer to the experience than the digital swatch that the scientists made.”

“I can do more with the chemistry of paint in terms of colour than you can do on a screen or in a photo,” added the artist.

Semple is selling Yolo via his website for £10,000 per 150 millilitres, or £29.99 if you are an artist. This stipulation nods to Semple’s ongoing campaign to democratise colour for struggling creatives, he explained.

“Pretty much everything I do for colour is around making colours accessible and usable for creativity,” said the artist, who previously made his own version of post-war artist Yves Klein’s registered ultramarine blue paint.

“We are still very sadly at a time where artists and creators are being overlooked and I wanted the community to know that I made it for them. It’s my way of making the scales a bit fairer,” continued Semple.

“I’m also hoping to move the discussion about the new colour towards its importance to artists.”

Yolo paint by Stuart Semple
Semple wants to make paint more accessible for artists

“The scientists are wonderful,” he continued. “

I totally respect what they’ve done, but the aesthetics of their discovery aren’t really on their radar. I reckon in the hands of artists and creators there’s a chance that Yolo can make some really inspiring work.”

Semple is known for his ongoing feud with artist Anish Kapoor, who previously bought the exclusive rights to the Vantablack pigment, said to be the world’s blackest paint. In response to the acquisition, Semple created a shade that he claimed was blacker and made it readily available to everyone except Kapoor.

The photography is courtesy of Stuart Semple.

The post Stuart Semple replicates newly discovered colour with “very weird glowy teal” paint appeared first on Dezeen.