Marina Tabassum revealed as 2025 Serpentine Pavilion designer

Marina Tabassum set to design 2025 Serpentine Pavilion

Bangladeshi architect Marina Tabassum has unveiled her design for this year’s Serpentine Pavilion in London, which will mark the 25th anniversary of the annual commission.

Named A Capsule in Time, the lightweight timber structure is informed by the temporary nature of the pavilions built outside the Serpentine Gallery in Kensington Gardens each summer.

2025 Serpentine Pavilion
The design for the 2025 Serpentine Pavilion has been unveiled

“When conceiving our design, we reflected on the transient nature of the commission, which appears to us as a capsule of memory and time,” said Tabassum.

“The relationship between time and architecture is intriguing: between permanence and impermanence, of birth, age and ruin; architecture aspires to outlive time.”

Bangladeshi architect Marina Tabassum
It will be designed by Bangladeshi architect Marina Tabassum. Photo by Asif Salman 

The design also nods to life in the Bengal Delta, where water flowing from the Himalayan mountains frequently requires people to relocate their homes – a phenomenon she often refers to in her work.

“In the Bengal Delta, architecture is ephemeral as dwellings change locations with the rivers shifting courses,” she said. “Architecture becomes memories of the lived spaces continued through tales.”

A Capsule in Time will consist of four arched modules with a timber structure filled with transparent panels. The modules will be separate from each other and frame a courtyard with a central tree that aligns with the gallery’s bell tower.

According to Tabassum, one of the pavilion’s sections will be movable to transform the space.

“The archaic volume of a half capsule, generated by geometry and wrapped in light semi-transparent material will create a play of filtered light that will pierce through the structure as if under a Shamiyana at a Bengali wedding,” said Tabassum.

2025 Serpentine Pavilion
The pavilion will have an arched timber structure

This year is the 25th anniversary of the first Serpentine Pavilion, which was designed by Zaha Hadid, and Tabassum’s pavilion will form part of the anniversary celebrations. According to the gallery, this year’s design will embody Hadid’s “ethos of pushing the boundaries of architecture”.

Tabassum, an architect who aims to root architecture to place, was featured on Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people of 2024. She was also named architect of the year at Dezeen Awards 2024.

“One of global architecture’s undoubted heavyweights, Marina Tabassum aims to create buildings that are aligned with their environments,” said the Dezeen Awards judges. “Her locally focused work is gaining increasing attention and admiration since winning the Aga Khan Award for Bait Ur Rouf Mosque in Dhaka.”

“She recently won the Soane Medal and was named on Time magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2024 list. It would be no surprise to see her win the Pritzker Architecture Prize in the next couple of years.”

Tabassum’s pavilion will be unveiled on 6 June. It follows a star-shaped pavilion designed by Minsuk Cho last year, Lina Ghotmeh’s circular timber pavilion in 2023 and Theaster Gates’ Black Chapel in 2022.

The renders are by Marina Tabassum Architects.

The post Marina Tabassum revealed as 2025 Serpentine Pavilion designer appeared first on Dezeen.

Andrés Jaque's Reggio School was the most significant building of 2022

Illustration of Reggio School

Reggio School, a project that combined experimental eco-architecture with a radical approach to learning, is the 2022 instalment in our 21st-Century Architecture: 25 Years 25 Buildings series.

This innovative building on the outskirts of Madrid was designed by Spanish architect Andrés Jaque, dean of the Graduate School of Architecture at Columbia University in New York, and his Madrid-based studio, Office for Political Innovation.

Located in Encinar de los Reyes, the building is packed with features encouraging biodiversity, including sprayed-on cork walls that provide habitats for insects and fungi, and greenhouse-style atriums filled with plants.

Facade of Reggio School
Reggio School combines a concrete base with walls of cork

The building programme was designed around the progressive Reggio Emilia teaching methodology, which promotes child-led rather than adult-dictated forms of learning.

Just as the Montessori method led Dutch architect Herman Hertzberger to design some of the most innovative schools of the 20th century, Jaque used the Reggio Emilia method to develop a new type of educational building for the 21st century.

It is one of the most inventive school buildings of the centuryOliver Wainwright in The Guardian

The school’s non-hierarchical layout, indoor landscapes and open-air teaching spaces encourage self-guided exploration and interaction, which are central to the teaching style.

“It is one of the most inventive school buildings of the century, breaking ground in everything from its layout, to the use of materials and its relationship to the natural world,” said critic Oliver Wainwright in a review for The Guardian.

Cork exterior of Reggio School
The cork is thermally insulating and provides habitats for insects and fungi

That sentiment was echoed by Matt Shaw, writing for The Architect’s Newspaper.

“In 2023, it is rare to see a building that actually innovates in programme, material or ecological strategy, let alone all three,” he wrote.

“The Madrid Reggio School does this in a way that aligns with the best intentions and examples of modernism.”

Greenhouse in Reggio School
The school features greenhouse-style atriums filled with plants

Reggio School was a turning point for Jaque, whose output before this point was limited to private residences like the playful House in Never Never Land and experimental installations such as the water-purifying Cosmo at MoMA PS1.

As the architect divides his time between New York and Madrid, his studio typically only takes on one project at a time.

We will see architectures in the next few years that will totally surprise usAndrés Jaque speaking to Domus

The school is his largest building to date, expanding on several themes from his earlier works.

These include his ethos of multispecies architecture, with the building designed to support various other lifeforms besides humans, from birds and bats to insects and microbes.

Balcony in Reggio School
The non-hierarchical building layout includes open-air teaching spaces

Another is a process Jaque calls “thinning, skinning and making fluffy”, a budget-saving strategy that involves reducing the amount of structural materials and incorporating natural, breathable materials.

He claimed to have reduced the amount of construction materials at Reggio School by 48 per cent by including no wall claddings, interior wall linings, suspended ceilings or raised floors, and adding in the thermally insulating cork.

Expoed services in Reggio School
Building finishes were kept to a minimum in a strategy of “thinning, skinning and making fluffy”

The age of pupils increases as one moves up through the building, but spaces throughout are designed to allow activities to blend. There are no corridors and there is no clear distinction between areas for study and those for play.

“That was a big part: thinking that there’s no divide between the classroom and, let’s say, leisure areas,” Jaque told architect Toshiko Mori in a 2023 interview with Domus.

“The ecosystemic character of the building means it can prompt serendipity and allow for the unexpected,” he said.

Reggio School was one of seven projects shortlisted for the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture, the Mies van der Rohe Award, in 2024.

Classroom in Reggio School
The architecture reflects the Reggio Emilia teaching methodology

It was also shortlisted at Dezeen Awards in 2023.

For Jaque, it signalled a move towards a more radical form of sustainability in architecture.

“At a time when we face so many crucial transformations, we will see architectures in the next few years that will totally surprise us and will probably make our environment not look or perform as it did in the past,” he told Domus.

“I’m very excited about that.”

Did we get it right? Was the Reggio School by Andrés Jaque the most significant building completed in 2022? Let us know in the comments. We will be running a poll once all 25 buildings are revealed to determine the most significant building of the 21st century so far.

Illustration of Reggio School for Dezeen's 21st-Century Architecture series

This article is part of Dezeen’s 21st-Century Architecture: 25 Years 25 Buildings series, which looks at the most significant architecture of the 21st century so far. For the series, we have selected the most influential building from each of the first 25 years of the century.

The illustration is by Jack Bedford and the photography is by José Hevia.


21st Century Architecture: 25 Years 25 Buildings

2000: Tate Modern by Herzog & de Meuron
2001: Gando Primary School by Diébédo Francis Kéré
2002: Bergisel Ski Jump by Zaha Hadid
2003: Walt Disney Concert Hall by Frank Gehry
2004: Quinta Monroy by Elemental
2005: Moriyama House by Ryue Nishizawa
2006: Madrid-Barajas airport by RSHP and Estudio Lamela
2007: Oslo Opera House by Snøhetta
2008: Museum of Islamic Art by I M Pei
2009: Murray Grove by Waugh Thistleton Architects
2010: Burj Khalifa by SOM
2011: National September 11 Memorial by Handel Architects
2012: 
CCTV Headquarters by OMA
2013
Cardboard Cathedral by Shigeru Ban
2014: Bosco Verticale by Stefano Boeri
2015: UTEC Lima campus by Grafton Architects
2016: 
Transformation of 530 Dwellings by Lacaton & Vassal, Frédéric Druot and Christophe Hutin
2017: 
Apple Park by Foster + Partners
2018: Amager Bakke by BIG
2019: Goldsmith Street by Mikhail Riches with Cathy Hawley
2020: Anandaloy by Anna Heringer
2021: Sara Kulturhus by White Arkitekter
2022: Reggio School by Andrés Jaque

This list will be updated as the series progresses.

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Hyundai unveils electric rickshaws "tailored to India's unique environment"

E3W electric rickshaw concept by Hyundai and TVS Motor Company

Car manufacturer Hyundai has revealed concept designs for two electric vehicles that offer a futuristic alternative to the rickshaws used across India.

The three-wheeler and four-wheeler vehicles unveiled at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 in New Delhi aim to provide a practical and low-emissions solution for urban transportation.

Hyundai partnered with Indian motorcycle manufacturer TVS Motor Company on the project, with the aim of “providing sustainable mobility solutions that align with India’s evolving infrastructure”.

Representatives of Hyundai and TVS Motor Company at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025
Hyundai presented two electric rickshaws at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025

According to Hyundai design head SangYup Lee, the proposals incorporate modern upgrades to the motor rickshaws that are a ubiquitous sight on India’s roads and “reimagine the iconic three-wheeler” for a fossil-free future.

Both vehicles are “tailored to India’s unique environment” and share key features, including an angled windshield for better visibility, enhanced collision protection, a flat floor and an extended wheelbase to improve comfort and ergonomics.

The compact three-wheeler concept is designed for manoeuvring through narrow city streets, supporting its use as a solution for commuting, transporting goods or as a rapid-response emergency vehicle.

The vehicle’s stretched wheelbase provides more legroom and a better seating position, while a foldable seat creates space for wheelchair users. Large tires provide a more comfortable ride and a towing hook allows for quick recovery from potholes.

In response to India’s unique climate, the design incorporates a height-adjustable chassis that can be raised to navigate waterlogged streets during the monsoon season.

As part of an ongoing process of material exploration and review, the designers are testing ideas including water-resistant finishes for internal surfaces and heat-reducing gloss black paint that could be applied to the roof to reduce heat conductivity.

E3W electric rickshaw concept by Hyundai and TVS Motor Company
The carmaker created a three-wheeler and four-wheeler concept

The choice of Aakaashi Blue for the exterior is a direct reference to the colour of the Indian Ocean and the sky.

A practical focus was adopted for the design of the interior, which incorporates adaptable storage, a compact and intuitive information display, a phone holder and reconfigurable pegboard-style panels.

Hyundai and TVS Motor are currently in discussions about potentially producing and rolling out the three-wheeler vehicle in India, while the four-wheeler is under review to determine its global potential.

Hyundai Motor Company was founded in 1967 and is currently the world’s third-largest carmaker in terms of production. Previously, the company presented innovative electric concept vehicles ranging from a foldable scooter that can be charged in a car to a walking car with robotic legs that could be used as a first responder in natural disaster zones.

In a 2022 interview, Lee told Dezeen that he believes autonomous driving will lead to cars becoming more like living spaces.

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Game-Changing Roof Box Packs A 30W Solar Panel, a 20,000mAh Power Bank, and Fingerprint Unlocking

Ask a transportation designer what they think of a roof box and you’ll visibly notice the blood rush to their face. These designers spend years focusing on designing a car with what they consider the perfect aesthetic… only for it to be ruined by a bulky roof box that doesn’t match the car’s design language at all. Why should it, though? Roof boxes need to be spacious, not stylish… and there’s no way to design one roof box that aesthetically complements every car model ever. However, the folks at ENROAD seem to have built a roof box that walks that fine line between form and function.

The Nomadix Pro Roof-Box actually packs impressive features into a robust yet gorgeously aerodynamic package. It isn’t boxy or boring-looking – instead, the Nomadix Pro opts for a gorgeously sleek design that cuts through the air with the same aerodynamics as your car. Its almost airfoil-like shape takes inspiration from aircraft wings, but couple that with a built-in solar panel and battery, fingerprint unlocking, and a double-reinforced shell strong enough to easily take up to 165 lbs of weight.

Designer: ENROAD

Click Here to Buy Now: $799 $1199 (33% off). Hurry, only a few left! Raised over $70,000.

What the Nomadix Pro packs into its slick design is impressive. The roof box offers ample space to accommodate up to five carry-on-sized suitcases, making it ideal for camping trips, ski outings, or daily commutes. An innovative RailTie™ system allows for effortless organization and secure adjustment of your gear. You even get a removable felt mat lining at the bottom to keep your stuff on, enhancing grip and reducing the constant cluttering sound of your stuff bumping around while you ride.

The roof box sports a pretty innovative Four-bar Hinge™ system that allows you to open it from either side. Whether you’re sitting on the driver’s side or shotgun, the Nomadix Pro lets you open and access the insides thanks to this innovative hinge system. The box can be opened using a set of traditional keys, but just in case you forget them (or if they’re strapped to your car keys that can’t be taken out), smart fingerprint unlocking on either side lets you use your fingerprint to open the Nomadix Pro. The roof box stores up to 20 fingerprints, allowing you to easily set up authentication for yourself, friends, or family members.

As impressive as its aerodynamic design is, the true crown jewel on the Nomadix Pro is its built-in 30W solar panel. Integrated into the top of the roof box’s design, this panel channels solar energy into the Trispark – a 20,000mAh detachable power bank that can charge your phone and other devices as well as work as an outdoor camping lamp with a built-in emergency SOS mode. The Trispark’s light comes in 3 temperature settings, with a battery life of 10 days at low brightness or 12 hours at max brightness.

Aside from that nifty Trispark, the inside of the Nomadix Pro also includes a motion-activated light, allowing you to see your belongings in the dark. The outer facade even has an LED full-width tail light that draws power from the solar panel and Trispark, working automatically when the car’s in motion to give other drivers a clear silhouette of your car in the dark. A perfect set of features for a modern-day roof box meant for modern-day cars.

All those features really don’t matter much if the roof box isn’t good at its prime objective – securing your gear. Aside from being spacious enough to hold a sizeable amount of luggage, the Nomadix Pro is built to last, with a 5-layer PMMA and ABS composite exterior that’s both durable and UV-resistant, and multiple metal reinforcements on the inside that allow the box to hold its shape even if you sit on it. Moreover, a Front-located Secondary Lock™ further secures the box, preventing it from ever accidentally flying open if there’s too much wind. Splash-proofing means that your gear stays secure no matter how hard it’s pouring.

The Nomadix Pro starts at a really competitive price of $799, undercutting premium brands like Thule by nearly half. Sure, you might find other roof boxes for that price tag, but they surely won’t be as aerodynamic, aesthetic, and durable as this one… forget the fact that you’re getting solar panels, fingerprint unlocking, and a 20,000mAh detachable power bank/camping lamp (with an SOS mode) along with the roof box!

Click Here to Buy Now: $799 $1199 (33% off). Hurry, only a few left! Raised over $70,000.

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This 52-Foot Residence Is The Biggest ‘Tiny Home’ We’ve Ever Seen

The Dogwood is completely pushing the boundaries of a ‘tiny home’ and maybe the largest we’ve seen. It occupies a floor space of 750 sq ft and was designed by Mustard Seed Tiny Homes. It is 52 feet long and 14 feet wide, bigger than the ‘big’ tiny homes we’ve recently seen, like the duplex model TinyPlex. It is equipped with a trailer base and doesn’t have any wheels. Although it doesn’t seem like the type of home that can be towed, it is intended to be a static house. It would be appropriate to call it a prefab home, but it does take a lot of inspiration from a tiny home, and that is what the firm describes it as well.

Designer: Mustard Seed Tiny Homes

The home is elegantly finished with engineered wood lap siding complemented by board and batten detailing, creating a harmonious blend of traditional and modern aesthetics. It is topped with a durable and sleek standing seam metal roof, adding to its contemporary appeal and longevity. You can enter the home through a set of charming French doors, which lead you into a spacious kitchen. This kitchen serves as the heart of the home, featuring a central island that doubles as a dining area. The kitchen is well-equipped with a large fridge/freezer, an oven and cooktop, a dishwasher, and a sink. It also offers abundant cabinetry, providing ample storage space for kitchen essentials and more.

The living room is closely located, and it is furnished with a fireplace, as well as sufficient space for a sofa and chairs. It includes two downstairs bedrooms, which have been placed on opposite sides of the living area. The master bedroom also includes space for a double bed, closets, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower/bath, toilet, and sink. The bathroom can be separate as well, depending on how the home is configured and arranged.

The second bedroom in the home is generously sized, offering ample space to accommodate a double bed and additional closets for storage. It also features an en-suite bathroom, complete with a shower, sink, and toilet. The thoughtfully designed tiny home also includes a laundry room. There is a loft area, accessible via a cleverly designed staircase that incorporates storage solutions within its structure.

As expected, the loft has a low ceiling, but it can still be used for different things. It could serve as a cozy guest bedroom for visitors or be utilized as a storage area, ensuring the living areas are organized and clutter-free. This multi-functional design maximizes the use of space within the tiny house. The Dogwood is priced at around US$200,000.

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This Underrated Sound-Absorbing Material uses Hundreds of Recycled Tennis Balls

Think sound absorption/dampening and you automatically think of materials like foam, cardboard, cloth, egg-holder trays. A designer is encouraging us to think outside the box – or rather, outside the ball. Designed by Mathilde Wittock of MWO Design, Soundbounce takes discarded tennis balls and transforms them into a material that’s not just sustainable but visually and texturally delightful. It’s sustainability turned into functional art—making you rethink how something as humble as a tennis ball can turn into the ultimate sound-absorbing material.

Soundbounce begins with used tennis balls, remnants of matches and memories, once destined for the landfill. The world produces 330 million tennis balls each year – once they serve their purpose, the balls are discarded, taking over 400 years to decompose. Instead of becoming planet Earth’s problem, Wittock reimagines these balls into a material that retains their essence—soft yet durable, lightweight yet strong. You can almost sense the energy of their previous life in the surface of this material, now transformed into something tactile and inviting.

Designer: Mathilde Wittock

The texture of Soundbounce is immediately captivating. Soft and slightly springy, it’s reminiscent of the original ball yet feels entirely new. This is the kind of surface that invites interaction—it’s warm to the touch, with a playfulness that balances its eco-conscious origins. Its imperfections aren’t flaws; they’re subtle reminders of the material’s journey, adding depth and intrigue to its appearance. Moreover, rather than being just visual, this decorative material is textural and tactile too, involving more senses in the user experience. Heck, it might just smell like a fresh tennis ball too!

Visually, the material has a velvety quality that feels unexpected for something made from recycled rubber. Its aesthetic is versatile, making it a compelling choice for a variety of applications. Picture it as upholstery on modern furniture, lending softness and personality to a space. Or imagine it as part of a design accent—perhaps an acoustic panel, a room divider, or even a pet bed. The tactile and visual appeal makes Soundbounce both approachable and elegant, capable of elevating any setting it’s introduced into.

Sustainability in design often comes with compromises. The raw, industrial look of recycled materials can sometimes overshadow their function, leaving them appreciated more for their message than their form. Soundbounce avoids that pitfall, showing that recycled materials can be both thoughtfully sustainable and visually refined. Its texture and color feel purposeful, celebrating its origins without overwhelming the final design. The balls also come in a variety of natural colors, with designer Mathilde Wittock also customizing the balls with RAL colors upon request – making it perfect for billboards, corporate installations, or other large-scale branding projects.

Its playful roots add another layer of charm. There’s something undeniably cheerful about its tennis ball heritage—a connection to sport, movement, and energy that carries over into the material. That lighthearted quality makes Soundbounce adaptable. Whether in a sleek interior, a casual workspace, or a child’s playroom, it has a way of blending in while adding its own story to the mix. Besides, the name Soundbounce perfectly captures the material’s history (bouncy tennis balls) but simultaneously feels like a playful taunt given that this new material doesn’t bounce sound – in fact, it absorbs it!

Pet owners, in particular, might find Soundbounce especially charming. Its soft, textured surface feels fantastic to the touch—perfect for a pet bed or a chew-resistant toy. After all, what better way to give your furry friend a slice of luxury while being kind to the planet? It’s as if Soundbounce is naturally tailored for the kind of practical, playful designs pets (and their humans) adore.

Soundbounce is a versatile material that lends itself to a range of applications, from furniture and interior design to fashion accessories and pet products. Its soft, tactile surface makes it ideal for upholstery, adding both comfort and visual appeal to chairs, cushions, and benches. Designers can also use it for accent pieces like lampshades or wall panels, where its textured finish becomes a focal point. Beyond aesthetics, Soundbounce delivers a significant sustainable impact. Each square meter incorporates approximately 283 upcycled tennis balls, preventing them from entering landfills and repurposing the equivalent of 8.5 kg of CO2. By transforming waste into a functional, beautiful material, Soundbounce champions a circular approach to design, reducing environmental harm while creating meaningful products.

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This ergonomic camera for solo video shooting makes short-form content truly professional

The complexion of digital media has rapidly changed in the last few years all thanks to platforms like YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. The short video format of 15-30 seconds has taken the world by storm, as the younger generation wants to display their lively personality with these short clips of expression. With this development, conventional cameras have taken a backseat as they no longer align with the fast content generation needs of the social media-conscious youth.

Smartphones are a good substitute but also come with some caveats limiting your creativity when shooting dynamic videos. The CLIPS camera is tailored for short-form content you want to make solo. It doesn’t require any additional equipment so you can concentrate on what your next viral video is going to be like. Virtually breaking you away from the barriers of content creation for quality footage on the fly.

Designer: Semin Park and Seona Jeong

This short-form camera is designed in a way to produce videos solo. It has a rotating structure on the right display to provide an ergonomic right angle for shooting as well as the convenience of holding for longer durations. The rotating screen allows the user to shoot videos with front and rear cameras with equal dexterity. Add to that the tilt adjustment for varying moods, and you’ve got a cinematic video shooting camera without the need for all the professional hardware. CLIPS can be set up on any level surface for shooting anywhere, anytime.

The concept centers around the portability and stylish elements of the overall design. Draped in an all-black body, this gadget has a premium feel to it. Those corners are contoured and textured for maximum grip which comes in handy when shooting at awkward angles. Just like any point-and-shoot camera of the 90s and 2000s, CLIPS gets two rotary buttoned dials on the top. This is for precise and intuitive operation with one hand. Also, it doubles as an input to intuitively view content information on the touch-enabled display or adjust the angle or tilt of the video being shot.

The second screen of this camera brings all the intuitive information in one place to have full control over the shooting prowess. The user can shoot in auto mode for a more convenient experience or choose manual settings for total command over the raw footage for maximum editing possibilities. CLIPS comes with the freedom to shoot self-shot videos in both horizontal and vertical orientations, as both modes have stable standing positions.

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Are Smartwatch Bands Putting Your Health at Risk? A PSA on the Hidden Dangers of Forever Chemicals

Recent research has revealed an unsettling truth about the wearable devices many of us use daily: smartwatch and fitness tracker bands may contain alarming levels of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals.” These compounds, known for their resistance to heat, water, and oil, are now raising serious health concerns due to their prevalence in everyday products. A study conducted by the University of Notre Dame highlights how these chemicals, often overlooked, may impact users’ well-being.

What Are PFAS, and Why Should You Be Concerned?

PFAS are synthetic compounds that don’t break down easily in the environment or the human body, hence their nickname “forever chemicals.” Historically used in products for their durability and resistance to stains, water, and heat, PFAS have been found in items ranging from cookware to cosmetics—and now, smartwatch bands.

The Notre Dame study, published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, examined 22 smartwatch and fitness tracker bands readily available in the U.S. Fifteen of these bands contained PFAS, with some samples showing levels far exceeding those typically found in other consumer products. For example, concentrations of perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), a specific type of PFAS, ranged from 1,000 parts per billion (ppb) to over 16,000 ppb in certain samples. These figures are significantly higher than the PFAS levels detected in cosmetics, which often average around 200 ppb.

How Does This Affect You?

Smartwatches and fitness trackers are designed for extended wear, often in direct contact with the skin for hours at a time. Whether you’re tracking steps, monitoring your heart rate, or using them during workouts, these devices have become a staple of modern life. However, their constant skin contact significantly raises the risk of dermal absorption, particularly during exercise when sweat increases both skin permeability and chemical uptake.

Emerging studies reveal that up to 38% of certain PFAS compounds can penetrate the skin within an eight-hour exposure window. With prolonged use, such as daily wear, these chemicals could steadily build up in the body, posing a growing risk of adverse health effects over time.

Potential Health Risks of PFAS Exposure

Research has linked PFAS exposure to various health issues, including:

  • Increased Cancer Risk: PFAS have been associated with some cancers, including kidney and testicular cancer.
  • Metabolic Disruption: These chemicals may interfere with hormonal regulation, contributing to obesity and other metabolic disorders.
  • Immune System Impairment: Studies indicate that PFAS can weaken the immune system, reducing its ability to fight infections and respond to vaccines.
  • Developmental Effects: In children, PFAS exposure has been connected to lower birth weights and developmental delays.

Though PFHxA, the primary PFAS detected in smartwatch bands, is considered less toxic than other longer-chain PFAS, its long-term effects remain a subject of ongoing research.

Why Are Expensive Bands Worse?

The study found that smartwatch bands costing more than $15 often have the highest levels of PFAS, those harmful chemicals we’ve been hearing about. This is a bit surprising, considering these bands are made from fluoroelastomer materials. These materials are super durable, resist wear and tear, and repel sweat and water. While these features help the bands last longer, they also make them more likely to contain PFAS.

High-end brands usually market these bands for athletes and professionals, which creates a bit of a contradiction. While they push premium products, users may actually face more risks, especially when sweating heavily or wearing them for long periods. Even though these bands come with cool features aimed at boosting performance, their materials might not be as great for intense activities. Some high-end brands might lack proper breathability or moisture-wicking abilities, leading to discomfort or skin irritation over time.

This raises some concerns about long-term safety and usability for fitness lovers and professionals who rely on these devices to track their health. It’s really important for consumers to consider the perks of advanced features while also considering the potential risks when using them in tough conditions.

What Can You Do to Protect Yourself?

Consumers should be aware of the materials used in smartwatch bands and make informed choices. Here are some practical steps:

  1. Choose Safer Materials: Opt for bands made of silicone or other materials less likely to contain PFAS. Silicone is generally considered safer and more affordable.
  2. Be Wary of Fluoroelastomers: Avoid bands explicitly labeled as containing fluoroelastomers or FKM rubber. These materials are often used in high-end products but have been linked to higher PFAS levels.
  3. Limit Wear During Intense Exercise: Since sweat can increase dermal absorption, consider switching to a safer band material during workouts.
  4. Research Before You Buy: Manufacturers rarely disclose the chemical composition of their bands, but digging into product descriptions or opting for well-reviewed alternatives can help minimize risk.

Industry Accountability: What Needs to Change and Why This Matters

While consumer awareness is vital, manufacturers also need to address these concerns. Transparent labeling, material safety testing, and proactive steps to reduce or eliminate PFAS from smartwatch bands are essential. Governments and regulatory bodies must also tighten restrictions on PFAS usage in consumer products to protect public health.

This issue goes beyond individual health risks—it’s a larger environmental and public health concern. PFAS are notoriously difficult to break down, contaminating water supplies and ecosystems worldwide. By reducing our reliance on products containing these chemicals, we can help mitigate their long-term impact.

For those who depend on wearable devices for fitness tracking or health monitoring, the findings are a sobering reminder to prioritize safety alongside functionality. As researchers continue to study PFAS exposure and its effects, staying informed and making conscious choices can go a long way in protecting your health and that of the planet.

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Biophilic Design Explained: 6 Elements for a Nature-Inspired Home

The concept of biophilia truly inspiring, as it emphasizes bringing the essence of the natural world into our indoor spaces. Before covid came in and changed our relationship with our homes and how we nurture our space, biophilic design has been around to re-work how me look at our relationship with nature. Introduced by biologist Erich Fromm in 1964, biophilia captures our innate love for life and nature. This connection explains why so many of us experience joy and peace in outdoor settings. By integrating nature into our environments, we can create spaces that nurture our well-being and reflect our deep-rooted affinity for the earth.

The psychological benefits of biophilia are profound, offering stress relief and cognitive improvements. For those passionate about nature, these benefits underscore the importance of living in harmony with the environment. As we navigate modern life, the six elements of biophilic design provide a roadmap to blend nature seamlessly into our daily experiences. This approach not only enhances our surroundings but also fosters a more meaningful connection with the natural world.

1. Environmental Features

Incorporating environmental features into biophilic design is essential for enhancing our connection to nature. By introducing elements such as vegetation, water, sunlight, and natural materials, indoor spaces become more inviting and harmonious. The use of potted plants, wooden furniture, and textured finishes not only beautifies interiors but also creates a calming environment. Earthy tones further enhance this effect, while open-concept layouts facilitate a seamless integration of these natural elements, fostering a soothing and enriching atmosphere.

These environmental features play a crucial role in transforming urban spaces into nature-inspired sanctuaries. Natural light and ventilation improve air quality and energy efficiency, while the presence of greenery and water features can significantly boost mood and productivity. By mimicking the sensory experience of the outdoors, these elements provide a much-needed refuge from the fast-paced urban lifestyle. Ultimately, biophilic design with its environmental features nurtures both physical and mental well-being, creating spaces that promote tranquility and balance.

Omri Cohen, a student at Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, created the Living Shell, an innovative architectural design using textile technology. This shell, made from woven jute, felt, and wheatgrass over a bamboo frame, provides insulation and shade while continuing to grow. Cohen’s 1:10 scale models demonstrate the potential for this structure to serve as a natural refuge for small animals and an educational tool for observing natural growth processes. The Living Shell can be integrated into both urban and rural environments, with an irrigation system to support its development.

The ACQUAIR combines a smart humidifier with a plant pot, using a single water tank to nourish the plant and emit moisture into the air. Equipped with sensors, it automatically adjusts mist levels based on temperature and humidity, ensuring optimal air quality with minimal maintenance. This dual-purpose design integrates nature and technology, enhancing both air purification and room aesthetics.

Olus is a compact, biophilic air purifier designed for small urban spaces, featuring fully biodegradable filters to cut down on landfill waste. Its nature-inspired design includes a moss-covered exterior and organic patterns. The two-stage filtration system uses dried moss and a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to clean the air, while a digital display shows air quality and temperature. Olus combines eco-friendliness with modern aesthetics for effective air purification.

2. Natural Shapes and Forms

Natural shapes and forms play a vital role in biophilic design by mirroring the organic patterns found in nature, such as botanical motifs, spirals, and arches. These elements bridge the gap between indoor environments and the natural world, fostering a sense of harmony and connection. By avoiding rigid right angles and straight lines, which are rare in nature, these designs create spaces that feel more fluid and organic, enhancing overall well-being.

Incorporating natural shapes and forms into design helps create environments that resonate with our innate affinity for nature. These elements evoke the beauty and complexity of the natural world, providing visual and emotional comfort. Curved lines and organic patterns can soften spaces, making them feel more inviting and less artificial. This approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also supports a calming atmosphere, promoting a deeper connection to the natural environment.

Respyre is an innovative bio-receptive technology company that has developed eco-concrete to support moss growth on concrete surfaces. This technology addresses urban challenges such as decreased biodiversity, heat stress, and pollution by transforming concrete structures into green spaces. Respyre’s eco-concrete features unique properties like porosity and nutrient content, allowing moss to grow without harming the underlying structure. Unlike costly and high-maintenance green roofs, this self-sustaining solution offers a practical way to integrate greenery into urban environments, improving air quality and enhancing cityscapes.

Plant Prefab and UK-based Koto have collaborated to create LivingHomes, two eco-friendly residences that merge Scandinavian minimalism with biophilic design principles. Meeting LEED Platinum and net-zero standards, these homes utilize recycled materials, energy-efficient systems, and low-flow fixtures. The first home, Yksi, features a cantilevered, two-bedroom design with large windows and expansive decks for natural light and privacy. The second home, Piha, offers four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a spacious open living area with courtyards and decks that provide panoramic views of the surrounding nature. Both homes are designed to integrate seamlessly with their environments, enhancing residents’ connection to the natural world.

3. Natural Patterns

Natural patterns are at the heart of biophilic design, capturing the essence of growth and aging as seen in the natural world. By mimicking these patterns, designers can create spaces that resonate with the organic processes found in nature. Materials like brass with its patina, oxidized metals, and aged leather exemplify this approach, showcasing unique textures and evolving colors that add depth and character to environments, reflecting the beauty of natural change.

In biophilic design, natural patterns not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also foster a connection to the rhythms of nature. These patterns celebrate the passage of time and the unique beauty that comes with aging, offering a visual narrative of transformation. By incorporating elements that echo these natural processes, spaces become more dynamic and engaging, encouraging occupants to connect with the environment on a deeper, more intuitive level.

The Aureole wall lighting collection draws inspiration from sunflower disk florets, blending natural forms with a unique, almost alien design. Crafted from quartz sand using advanced 3D printing, the lamps feature intricate, maze-like patterns. When illuminated, the opaque black disc at the center casts mesmerizing, spiral shadows, creating an ethereal, solar eclipse effect. This striking design captures the essence of nature while serving as a captivating conversation piece.

4. Light and Space

Light and space are integral components of biophilic design, significantly impacting mood and productivity. Maximizing daylight in interiors helps create bright, airy environments that mimic the comforting glow of natural settings, such as forests or starlit skies. By strategically placing large windows and mirrors, spaces can capture and amplify sunlight, ensuring an abundance of natural illumination. This approach not only enhances visual appeal but also strengthens the connection between indoor environments and the natural world.

Incorporating light and space in biophilic design also involves using elements like glass chandeliers to reflect and disperse light, adding depth and warmth to interiors. These reflective surfaces can evoke a sense of openness and continuity, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. This design strategy fosters a harmonious atmosphere that supports well-being and creativity, allowing occupants to experience the soothing and invigorating effects of natural light within built environments.

Jungle, designed by Poland’s KABO & PYDO, merges a light fixture with a planter in a sleek, capsule-shaped design. Suspended from the ceiling by long fabric straps, it features an opaque body that diffuses a warm, golden light and highlights the greenery. This dual-function piece combines biophilic design with modern aesthetics, offering both soothing illumination and a stylish way to incorporate plants into any living space.

5. Place-Based Relationships

Place-based relationships in biophilic design emphasize the integration of local culture, materials, and ecology into the built environment, creating spaces that resonate with their surroundings. By embracing vernacular architecture, designers utilize local materials and traditional building techniques, which not only reduce environmental impact but also celebrate the unique character of a place. This approach allows buildings to harmonize with their natural settings, whether nestled among mountains, along rivers, or in arid desert landscapes, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity with the environment.

Incorporating local artwork and cultural elements further strengthens place-based relationships in biophilic design. These artistic expressions capture the essence of a region’s history, traditions, and values, enriching the narrative of a space and deepening the connection between occupants and their surroundings. By highlighting regional history and culture, biophilic design creates environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also meaningful and contextually relevant. This fosters a deeper appreciation for the local ecology and promotes a sense of stewardship and responsibility toward preserving and enhancing the natural and cultural heritage of a place.

The Playground Restaurant by Loop Design Studio in Chandigarh blends brutalist and modernist design with lush greenery to create a whimsical greenhouse feel. Featuring an irregular cinder block wall with potted plants and vintage Edison bulbs, a translucent glass ceiling, and cozy wooden tables, the space combines industrial elements with biophilic design. Audio cassette tapes and terracotta flooring with cobalt blue tiles add unique touches, making the restaurant a vibrant oasis in the city’s concrete landscape.

6. Evolved Human-Nature Relationship

Biophilic design evolves the human-nature relationship by recreating environments that echo the natural world, fostering a deep connection to nature. By integrating elements such as natural light, organic materials, and greenery, these designs provide spaces that feel protective and nurturing. This approach taps into our inherent affinity for nature, offering a sense of security and comfort reminiscent of natural shelters, thereby enhancing emotional well-being and reducing stress in modern, built environments.

Furthermore, biophilic design encourages a harmonious coexistence with nature by embedding natural elements into daily life. This design philosophy not only improves aesthetic appeal but also nurtures physical and mental health, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment. By creating spaces that blend seamlessly with their surroundings, biophilic design cultivates a sense of stewardship and responsibility, inspiring individuals to engage more consciously with the natural world and prioritize sustainable practices.

KRADS, a Danish-Icelandic architectural studio, designed a holiday home in southwestern Iceland that exemplifies biophilic design. Integrated into the mountainous terrain overlooking Lake Þingvallavatn, the home features staggered concrete foundations that harmonize with the natural landscape. Its green rooftops, adorned with moss and local grasses, enhance the connection to the surrounding woodland. Inside, the design maximizes natural light and offers unobstructed views of the lake and the mountain Skjaldbreið, creating a serene environment that reflects the principles of biophilia by seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces.

Playa Viva is an eco-resort in Juluchuca, Mexico, featuring treehouse-style villas with roofs inspired by Mobula Ray wings. Designed by Atelier Nomadic, the resort integrates into the natural landscape with structures made from Guadua bamboo, fishpole bamboo, and Cumaru timber. The villas are elevated on wooden stilts and feature hyperbolic roofs for sun and rain protection. Playa Viva operates off-grid, using solar energy and supporting local communities through health and education initiatives, while also contributing to sea turtle conservation via its La Tortuga Viva Turtle Sanctuary.

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This PS One-inspired $179 Console Brings Retro Gaming to Your 4K TV – No Emulators Needed

There’s something magical about revisiting the past, especially when it comes to gaming. For those who grew up in the heyday of classic consoles, there’s an unmistakable thrill in holding a controller that feels just right, in playing a game that catapults you straight back to simpler times. SuperStationᴼᴺᴱ, a modern twist on the multi-system game console, is tapping into that nostalgia, while bringing some 21st-century innovation to the mix. It’s a hybrid creation designed for gamers who want to celebrate the golden age of retro gaming without the compromises of clunky emulators or faded hardware.

At first glance, the SuperStationᴼᴺᴱ looks like something  a 90s console-maker would have dreamt up in a parallel universe. Its design channels the aesthetic of the PS One, with more color options (including a see-through blue variant). Soft pebble-like edges, subtle RGB lighting, and modular design elements bring it into the modern era. But it’s not just a case of old-school looks meeting modern styling—this console’s biggest draw is its ability to play original cartridges from a wide range of classic systems. Yes, actual cartridges, not ROMs or cloud libraries. Think NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and even lesser-known consoles like the TurboGrafx-16, all supported natively without adapters or third-party tinkering.

Designer: Retro Remake

This kind of versatility is a rare feat. Retro gaming enthusiasts often face the frustrating decision between maintaining multiple aging consoles or resorting to emulators that never quite capture the authenticity of the originals. The SuperStationᴼᴺᴱ solves this by combining multi-system compatibility with modern features like HDMI output, customizable upscaling, and wireless controller support. Imagine popping in your copy of Chrono Trigger, hearing the familiar chime of the SNES startup screen, but seeing it in crisp HD on your 4K TV. The SuperStationᴼᴺᴱ ensures your favorite titles get the epic retro revival they deserve.

The hardware itself feels surprisingly premium for what is essentially a retro console revival. According to SuperStationᴼᴺᴱ, the console boasts custom-designed hardware tailored to faithfully replicate the circuitry of the original systems. No laggy emulation here—everything runs on low-latency FPGA chips, a nod to the kind of precise engineering that’s vital to hardcore retro gamers. Even the smallest details, like system startup sounds or controller latency, are engineered to match the feel of the original systems as closely as possible.

Perhaps the most intriguing part of the SuperStationᴼᴺᴱ, though, is its emphasis on modularity. The system includes interchangeable modules for each console type, so you can mix and match based on your collection. Want to jump between SEGA’s Sonic the Hedgehog and Nintendo’s Super Mario World? Just swap the module and you’re ready to go. This future-proof approach not only expands compatibility but also allows SuperStationᴼᴺᴱ to keep rolling out support for additional systems without forcing you to upgrade the core hardware.

The SuperStationᴼᴺᴱ is currently up for pre-order, with a rather affordable price of $179.99. It comes in 3 colors – classic off-white, iconic black, and a rather electrifying transparent blue that absolutely has my heart. Although my soul is telling me to find a CRT monitor, the best way to enjoy the SuperStationᴼᴺᴱ is to hook it up to your 4K TV or perhaps even your AR/VR glasses for a hi-res expansive experience. After all, Super Mario World and Street Fighter may have been built for smaller screens, but their charm becomes downright cinematic when brought to life in high definition.

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