Jul
22

By

Round Pavilion is a tranquil retreat in Suzhou’s Expo Park

Category: YankoDesign

Nestled in the Herbal Garden of Suzhou’s Expo Park, far from the bustle of the main pavilions, the Round Pavilion by Atelier Guo offers an unexpected oasis of calm. Unlike the grander, more thematic installations elsewhere in the park, this intimate garden is quietly enveloped by exotic vegetation. Its modest presence belies a vibrant public life, where laughter and conversation fill the air, softening the former grandeur and ambitious narratives that once defined this land.

The Round Pavilion is both subtly hidden and wholly accessible. Atelier Guo’s vision was to harness the site’s gentle potential, extending the existing linear corridor and resolving its end with a gesture of convergence. The design borrows the corridor’s white wall as a language of scale and guidance, gently curving the path so that movement unfolds in a continuous gradient. The result is a blurring of direction and geometry, inviting visitors to discover the space intuitively rather than follow strict guidance.

Designer: Atelier Guo (photos by Ziqian Wang, Qingshan Wu)

Within this compact footprint, the elongated corridor amplifies the senses, turning each step into a moment of spatial discovery. As visitors move through the garden, fragmented glimpses and shifting perspectives merge into a unified, immersive experience. Rather than simply creating a pavilion or an extended wall, Atelier Guo approached the project with a light touch, using minimal foundations and a top-down logic. The design maintains the layered feel of the existing pavilions but gives special emphasis to the wall as a defining element. Here, the wall, roof, and ground are clearly distinct from one another. The roof itself is not a solid surface but a structural framework, with shallow eaves that soften the intersections and frame the garden with crisp, upright corners. This approach allows the pavilion to oscillate between the feel of a sculptural installation and a traditional built structure.

A moment of surprise awaits as you step into the pavilion’s core. What was thick and substantial suddenly gives way to thinness and light. Atelier Guo experimented with ultra-thin precast white concrete panels to create suspended walls that balance structural stability with a sense of visual delicacy. The panels’ subtle reflectivity and the soft play of shadows across their curved surfaces give the form a gentle resilience. Against the backdrop of lush greenery, these walls act like screens, catching the light and projecting the landscape as if it were ink-washed silk.

The Round Pavilion by Atelier Guo is a masterful blend of subtlety and innovation. It invites visitors to experience architecture as a journey of discovery and reflection, where movement, material, and landscape harmonize. The result is a peaceful retreat that honors the spirit of the garden, allowing the outside world to slow down and connect with the beauty of simplicity and thoughtful design.

The post Round Pavilion is a tranquil retreat in Suzhou’s Expo Park first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jul
22

By

Alienware Area 51 LEGO set is true to the original but literally bricked out of the box

Category: YankoDesign

The Alienware Area 51 Gaming Desktop is a power-packed machine designed primarily for gaming setups, professional editing tasks, including video transcoding, and everything in between, which can be leveraged with its raw processing power. The PC is loaded with an advanced thermal system for sustained high performance, and its quiet operation makes it ideal for productivity marathons.

The gaming PC carries a hefty price tag, starting at $4,499, and we’re fairly certain not everyone can afford this high-end desktop computer. The next best thing is to own a cute LEGO replica of the Area 51 PC in a scaled-down version. Roughly the size of a Mac Mini, the LEGO version is not functional and is good for desktop aesthetics only. Measuring around 5.3 inches long and 2.2 inches wide, the LEGO Area 51 set is ideal for a gamer’s geeky setup.

Designer: Alienware

Just like putting together a PC brings profound satisfaction, piecing together the LEGO bricks has its unique charm. That puts this Alienware official LEGO set in the league of this retro LEGO PC build by PovedBricks that revives the old-school memories of a computer that worked with Floppy disks. The 318-piece LEGO Area 51 PC doesn’t come from the house of LEGO Technics; rather, it is designed by the American PC maker. The only way to own this limited-edition set is to have a fat stash of credits (9,999 reward points) in the Arena Marketplace. To amass these reward points, existing customers can purchase Alienware products from the online store.

Given this is not an official LEGO set, users on various forums and blogs have confirmed there is no branding on the 11 plastic bags in which the set comes packed. There’s just the outside carton packaging that has the minimalist Alienware branding, and a BuildaMOC card, which sells custom LEGO kits. In all likelihood, the LEGO set is designed by the bespoke builder for Alienware. As you put it together piece by piece, you’ll discover the QR codes embedded on the bricks that direct you towards those components on the website. The ideal way is to build the bottom, then move to the power supply shroud with the dual fans, and then move on to the motherboard. The top of the case has customized pieces to show off the honeycomb venting and comes with a 360mm radiator with three fans.

On the front, there is the Alienware logo, and the air vents on the transparent side panel can be removed to make the internals completely visible from a distance. The processor has three fans for optimized all-in-one cooling. When the transparent casing is put on, important hardware components like the motherboard, graphics card, and power supply are clearly visible. The only major put-off when it comes to the level of detail is the single-channel RAM, which does not represent the real thing. Perhaps an official LEGO set would be the way to go.

The post Alienware Area 51 LEGO set is true to the original but literally bricked out of the box first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jul
22

By

Orbit Chair is a modern centerpiece for contemporary spaces

Category: YankoDesign

When I think of chairs, I often just think of something I can sit on when I’m working or when I need a break from walking or standing. It’s one of those pieces of furniture that’s more utilitarian than decorative. When I need to rest, I just sit on whatever’s available. When picking a chair for my apartment, I usually choose the ones that are comfortable and affordable. But lately, chair designs have also become more aesthetic.

The Orbit Chair by Julia Kononenko is a striking example of how contemporary furniture can transform the atmosphere of a room. Designed by Kononenko ID for Tivoli, this chair is not just a seat but a thoughtfully crafted piece that anchors a space and invites conversation. With its unique semi-circular silhouette and minimalist construction, this chair brings together form, function, and a quiet sense of presence.

Designer: Julia Kononenko

At first glance, the Orbit Chair stands out for its bold yet graceful design. The chair’s most defining feature is its semi-circular backrest, made from carefully bent plywood. This open, enveloping arc is both an embrace and an invitation, curving around the sitter while never feeling restrictive. The backrest’s gesture is welcoming, encouraging users to settle in and feel grounded. The open space within the curve creates a sense of lightness, making the chair feel more like a part of the room than an object occupying it. Every line and joint in the Orbit Chair is purposeful. Its construction avoids any unnecessary flourishes, focusing instead on precision and harmony. The circular seat, supported by slender legs, appears to float within the chair’s frame. This subtle interplay of curves and straight lines gives the chair a sculptural quality, making it an instant focal point in any setting.

One of the most compelling aspects of the Orbit Chair is its ability to interact with its surroundings. Rather than dominating a room, the chair creates a gentle center of gravity. Arranging several Orbit Chairs together naturally encourages conversation and movement, as people are drawn to the circle the chairs form. Even a single chair, placed thoughtfully, can transform a quiet corner into a place of connection or contemplation. Available in a range of finishes, from vibrant hues to natural wood tones, the Orbit Chair can suit a wide variety of interiors. Whether used in a modern living room, a chic office, or a stylish café, its presence adapts seamlessly. The chair’s minimalist aesthetic allows it to complement both bold and neutral palettes, while its unique form always catches the eye.

The Orbit Chair’s appeal lies in more than just its looks. Its careful construction and ergonomic design ensure comfort, making it suitable for extended use. The bent plywood backrest provides gentle support, while the padded seat adds a touch of softness. I sometimes prefer chairs that look “normal” and traditional since I equate them with utilitarian comfort. But while the Orbit Chair may look contemporary and aesthetic, it still promises rest and comfort for those who just want to sit and relax.

The post Orbit Chair is a modern centerpiece for contemporary spaces first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jul
22

By

European Solution for Burning EVs: Drop Them in a Dumpster Filled with Water

Category: Core77

Firefighter Ryan Twombley’s TTRC invention is a safer way for first responders to fight EV fires. However, EVs have an unpleasant trick: Once the fire is extinguished, it can spontaneously re-ignite—days, weeks, and even months later. A study in Australia found one extinguished EV “reignited 68 days after the initial incident.”

In European countries like Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, and neighboring Norway and Sweden, fire departments aren’t taking any chances. An increasingly popular approach there is to haul both a crane and a dumpster to the site of a burning EV. Once the fire is extinguished, the vehicle is craned into the dumpster, which is then topped off with water.

Being fully submerged guarantees that all batteries in the array are cooled simultaneously, reducing the change of reignition. The vehicles are left in the drink for up to 24 hours, then taken to special facilities where they can be safely dismantled and scrapped. The water in the dumpster is then treated as hazardous waste.

It’s a smart idea. Worldwide, there have been cases of extinguished EVs reigniting as they’re being towed away from the accident scene. This means the tow trucks themselves sustain damage.

That’s led some tow truck drivers to, quite understandably, refuse to haul burnt EVs away. To solve that problem, a British company called EV Cool Tubs provides transportation for damaged EVs in their dedicated dumpsters.

They also pitch the containers to “vehicle storage/body-shop repair compounds, and vehicle assembly plants to store compromised EV battery packs,” they write. “They can also be used to store e-bikes and e-scooters that are presently becoming a serious concern nationally for the vehicle recovery industry. These watertight tubs can be flooded by the Fire & Rescue Service in emergency situations.”

No such solution is yet widespread in the U.S. At a congressional hearing last year Scott Benavidez, Chairman of the Automotive Service Association’s Board of Directors, provided the following warning:

“There are numerous instances in which damaged EVs have caught fire and caused damage to the repair facility at which it was being held, as well as other vehicles in its vicinity. Due to these risks, repair shops are now encouraged to allocate space in their facility where they can isolate EVs for safe storage.”

There’s a business opportunity there.

Jul
21

By

‘art walk’ video project follows the journey of a painting through london’s urban landscape

Category: Design Boom

a surreal london journey by tayfun sarier and zeynep oğuz

 

A curious figure weaves through the streets of London: an Art Walker guiding a large framed painting of a woman through parks, alleyways, and urban corners. This is the premise of Art Walk, a video project that follows a fictional but deeply symbolic role: a person whose job is to move art through the real world. Created by artist Tayfun Sarier and directed by Zeynep Oğuz, the project blurs the line between performance, public intervention, and moving image. But the story doesn’t end there. In a moment of surreal coincidence, the painting encounters an identical version of itself, this time not in a frame, but walking free.

outside Tate Britain – the ‘Art Walker’ has taken the painting and is walking away from the building | images courtesy of Tayfun Sarier and Zeynep Oğuz

 

 

art walk unfolds as a living, breathing city intervention

 

Over the course of two intensive days, Tayfun Sarier and Zeynep Oğuz brought Art Walk to life without permits, staged crowds, or scripted reactions. The choreography was designed to interact with London’s diverse urban fabric, inviting chance as a central creative force. The painting, set within a hand-built, reinforced frame, was carried through the city by the Art Walker, whose journey unfolds silently but meaningfully across bustling sidewalks, quiet paths, and unexpected vistas.

 

The multidisciplinary artist and the director team embraced spontaneity, capturing unscripted moments of confusion, intrigue, and quiet wonder. By removing the art from its traditional gallery context, Art Walk challenges our perception of both artwork and audience. Passersby, caught off guard, become accidental participants in a fleeting performance. And when the painting meets its human doppelgänger — subtly staged but never explained — the project takes a surreal turn, prompting reflection on identity, repetition, and the quiet power of surprise. In blending fiction with live cityscape, Art Walk offers more than visual spectacle: it’s a meditation on visibility, presence, and the role of art in public life.

in the middle of the Barbican Estate, the painting is juxtaposed with grey concrete and high-rise apartments
the Art Walker walks through an open square or field with historic architecture in the background

the painting is now on a high-end shopping street

close-up of the painting

the Art Walker walks along a gritty urban path, contrasting the classical painting with brutalist architecture and graffiti

in front of the National Theatre, another brutalist structure

a dramatic close-up of the painting held high near Big Ben

in the thick of London traffic, crosswalk chaos, a green black cab, a double-decker bus in the background, and pedestrians in all directions

the painting is carried past a vibrant corner store selling vapes and drinks

the painting peeks over a concrete wall with the London Eye in the background

 

 

project info:

 

 

name: Art Walker
designer: Tayfun Sarier, Zeynep Oğuz

 

 

 

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom

The post ‘art walk’ video project follows the journey of a painting through london’s urban landscape appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

Jul
21

By

Top 5 Budget-Friendly Photography Essentials Under $100 For Summer Adventures 2025

Category: YankoDesign

Summer adventures call for gear that matches your wanderlust without emptying your wallet. The season of endless golden hours, vibrant festivals, and spontaneous road trips needs photography equipment that can keep up with your creative energy while staying within budget. Whether you’re capturing sunrise hikes, beach portraits, or those perfect vacation moments, the right affordable tools can transform your summer photography from ordinary snapshots to compelling visual stories.

The beauty of budget photography lies not in expensive equipment but in smart choices that maximize creative potential. Summer presents unique challenges and opportunities for photographers: harsh midday sun, dramatic backlighting, extended outdoor sessions, and the need for portable solutions that won’t weigh down your adventure pack. These five essentials hit the sweet spot between functionality and affordability, each product serving multiple purposes while delivering professional-quality results.

1. Lenovo C55

The Lenovo C55 departs from smartphone photography dominance by offering a dedicated tool that focuses on video content creation over pixel-perfect stills. This compact digital camera brings professional features to an accessible price point, making it ideal for summer adventures where storytelling takes precedence over technical perfection. The built-in ring light eliminates the guesswork of summer lighting conditions, providing consistent illumination whether you’re filming at sunrise, in deep forest shade, or during golden hour beach sessions.

Summer photography often involves difficult lighting scenarios where smartphone cameras struggle to maintain consistent exposure and color accuracy. The C55’s 4K video capabilities, combined with its integrated ring light, create a portable studio solution that travels effortlessly in your summer gear. The camera’s retro-inspired design isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it entails a purposeful approach to content creation that selects ease of use over complex menu systems.

Why you need it this summer

Built-in ring light eliminates the need for separate lighting equipment.
4K video recording capability at an extremely affordable price point.

What you’ll have to work around this summer

Limited still photography features compared to traditional cameras.
Plastic construction may not withstand heavy outdoor use.

2. Polaroid Go Instant Camera

The Polaroid Go Instant Camera brings instant gratification to summer photography, creating physical memories that transcend digital sharing. This pocket-sized instant camera offers vintage charm and modern convenience, creating a unique shooting experience that encourages thoughtful composition and intentional photography. During summer adventures, where moments feel fleeting and precious, the Go provides immediate physical results that capture the essence of experiences rather than just their appearance.

Summer photography focuses on sharing experiences rather than archiving them, making instant photography particularly relevant for vacation documentation and social experiences. The Go’s compact design makes it ideal for beach trips, camping adventures, or festival attendance where larger cameras would be impractical. The built-in selfie timer and accurate flash system ensure consistent results across various summer lighting conditions, while the wrist strap design prevents accidental drops during active use.

Why you need it this summer

Creates immediate physical prints that enhance social sharing experiences.
Compact size makes it ideal for travel and adventure photography.

What you’ll have to work around this summer

Ongoing film costs significantly increase per-shot expenses.
Limited creative control compared to traditional cameras.

3. MagLight

The MagLight solves one of summer photography’s most persistent problems: maintaining smartphone battery life while ensuring proper lighting for extended outdoor sessions. This innovative MagSafe accessory combines a 4000mAh power bank with customizable RGB lighting, creating a solution that addresses both power and illumination needs simultaneously. During summer adventures, where charging opportunities are limited and shooting sessions extend well into evening hours, the MagLight provides essential backup power while dramatically improving photo quality in challenging lighting conditions.

Summer photo shoots often deal with less-than-ideal lighting conditions, from harsh midday sun to dimly lit camping scenarios. The MagLight’s RGB customization allows photographers to match ambient lighting conditions or create specific moods, transforming ordinary smartphone photos into professional-looking images. The magnetic attachment system ensures secure mounting during active summer activities, while the remote control functionality enables hands-free operation during group photos or self-portraits.

Why you need it this summer

Dual functionality as both a power bank and a professional lighting solution.
RGB customization allows for creative lighting effects and mood matching.

What you’ll have to work around this summer

Adds significant bulk to the smartphone setup.
Limited compatibility with non-MagSafe Android devices despite the included magnetic stickers.

4. Neewer 5-in-1 Collapsible Light Reflector

The Neewer 5-in-1 reflector system provides professional lighting control at an accessible price point, making it essential for summer portrait photography and outdoor shoots. This collapsible multi-disc system includes silver, gold, black, white, and translucent surfaces, offering complete lighting control for any summer shooting scenario. The spring-loaded frame ensures easy deployment and compact storage, while the included carrying pouch makes it practical for travel photography and outdoor adventures.

The reflector system’s multiple surfaces provide solutions for every lighting condition: gold for warm skin tones during golden hour, silver for increased contrast during overcast conditions, white for soft fill lighting, black for shadow creation, and translucent for diffusion of harsh direct sunlight. The lightweight construction and compact folding design make it practical for hiking, beach photography, or any outdoor adventure where lighting control is essential but portability cannot be compromised.

Why you need it this summer

Five lighting solutions in one compact, affordable package.
Professional-quality results without power requirements or setup complexity.

What you’ll have to work around this summer

Requires an assistant or a stand for optimal positioning during solo shoots.
Fabric surfaces may show wear with frequent outdoor use.

5. MagCool OmniGrip

The MagCool OmniGrip combines multiple essential tools into one handheld device that’s perfect for summer adventures. This innovative grip system handles some of the common issues during extended outdoor sessions: overheating devices, limited storage, poor lighting, and unstable handheld shooting. With its built-in SSD storage, professional cooling system, and integrated ring light, the OmniGrip ensures your smartphone performs optimally even during demanding summer shoots in challenging conditions.

The OmniGrip’s semiconductor cooling system prevents thermal throttling that commonly occurs during extended 4K recording sessions, while the 6000mAh battery ensures continuous operation throughout day-long adventures. The built-in ring light provides consistent illumination for both photo and video content, eliminating the harsh shadows and uneven lighting that plague summer outdoor shoots.

Why you need it this summer

Built-in cooling system prevents overheating during extended 4K recording sessions.
Integrated SSD storage eliminates memory limitations during long adventure shoots.

What you’ll have to work around this summer

Added bulk and weight may fatigue hands during extended handheld use.
Higher price point approaches traditional camera territory while maintaining smartphone limitations.

Capture Summer Without Breaking the Bank

Do not limit your adventures this summer with budget constraints or heavy gear that slows down spontaneous exploration. These five essentials offer exceptional photography results from smart tool selection rather than expensive equipment. Together, they create a comprehensive kit that addresses every summer shooting scenario: the Lenovo C55 and MagCool OmniGrip handle video content creation, the MagLight ensures consistent smartphone performance, the Polaroid Go adds tangible memory creation, and the Neewer reflector provides professional lighting control.

The true magic happens when these tools work together, creating a synergistic system that adapts to any summer adventure. Summer 2025 belongs to creators who understand that the best camera is the one you have with you, enhanced by smart, affordable accessories that amplify your creative vision. Pick the perfect one for you, and have a splendid summer!

The post Top 5 Budget-Friendly Photography Essentials Under $100 For Summer Adventures 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jul
21

By

Soleil Mechanical TKL Keyboard Powers Up with Ambient Light and Style

Category: YankoDesign

We’re living in an age where our desks look like charging cable graveyards, and honestly, it’s getting ridiculous. Every wireless peripheral seems to need juice at the most inconvenient times, and don’t even get me started on hunting for batteries in that one drawer everyone has. The CannonKeys Soleil might just be the hero we didn’t know we needed, solving this modern annoyance while looking absolutely stunning in the process.

The collaboration between CannonKeys and Gondolindrim tackles a problem most of us have just accepted as part of modern life. Sure, wireless keyboards are convenient until they’re not, and they’re also environmental nightmares when you really think about it. Constant charging cycles, inevitable battery degradation, and that sad trip to the electronics graveyard when everything finally gives up for good.

Designer: CannonKeys x Gondolindrim

The Soleil takes its cues from nature itself, specifically how trees and plants just casually harness sunlight like it’s no big deal. The keyboard features gorgeous wooden accents that aren’t just there to look pretty, though they absolutely do. Real walnut wood graces the black anodized aluminum version, while lighter maple accents complement the e-coated white finish, and these aren’t just slapped on for show.

Here’s where things get genuinely exciting, and I mean the kind of exciting that makes you want to tell everyone at the coffee shop about it. The Soleil promises up to 10 months of battery life with normal use in complete darkness, which is already pretty impressive. But here’s the real kicker that’ll make you question why this isn’t standard everywhere: with just regular ambient light from your setup, you’re looking at 12 months or more of wireless freedom.

We’re not talking about positioning this thing in direct sunlight like some sort of solar panel science experiment. The integrated charging system works with everyday lighting conditions, whether that’s the glow from your monitor, those overhead office lights that never seem quite bright enough, or natural light filtering through your window. It’s almost too good to be true, but the engineering is apparently solid enough to back up these bold claims.

The charging technology is seamlessly woven into the design philosophy, and you won’t find any obvious solar panels disrupting the keyboard’s clean lines. Instead, the tech is cleverly hidden within those wooden accents, creating a power center that’s as beautiful as it is functional. It’s the kind of thoughtful engineering that makes you wonder why more companies haven’t figured this out yet, or if they have, why they’re keeping it to themselves.

Beyond the sustainability angle that’ll make your environmentally conscious friends jealous, the Soleil delivers on all the mechanical keyboard fundamentals that enthusiasts actually care about. The tenkeyless (TKL) layout includes standard features plus flexibility for customization, because let’s face it, keyboard people are particular about their layouts. The hotswap PCB supports both 6.25u and 7u spacebars, split right shift and backspace, and stepped caps lock configurations for those who know exactly what they want.

The Soleil arrives as a DIY kit, meaning you’ll need to source your own switches, stabilizers, and keycaps, which might sound daunting if you’re new to this world. But it’s actually perfect for the enthusiast community while keeping costs reasonable and customization options unlimited, plus there’s something deeply satisfying about building your own keyboard. CannonKeys is even considering a wired PCB option for those who love the design but prefer the reliability of cables.

What makes the Soleil special isn’t just its solar charging capability, though that’s admittedly pretty cool. It represents a genuine shift toward sustainable technology that doesn’t compromise on performance or aesthetics, and in a world where we’re constantly plugging things in, the idea of a keyboard that powers itself feels almost magical.

The post Soleil Mechanical TKL Keyboard Powers Up with Ambient Light and Style first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jul
21

By

Firefighter Invents Tool to Fight EV Fires More Safely

Category: Core77

Electric vehicles are far less likely to burst into flames than internal combustion engine cars, according to Allied World Insurance.* The problem is if they do catch fire, they’re significantly more difficult to put out. A burning ICE car might require 1,000 gallons of water to extinguish. A burning EV “can require up to forty times as much” water, according to the International Technical Committee for the Prevention and Extinction of Fire (CTIF).

Part of the difficult of EV fires relates to a phrase realtors know well: Location, location, location. An ICE car typically burns in the engine compartment. Firefighters need to pop the hood, then douse the engine compartment with water. EVs, however, burn from the bottom. The battery arrays are always on the underside of the car, by design, for weight stability while driving. And for the safety of the passengers, the passenger cabins have robust underbody shields. In other words, EV batteries cannot be effectively doused from the top.

What firefighters have learned to do is “crib” an EV: Jacking it up on one side, to give their hoses access to the battery arrays.

Cribbing isn’t a quick operation; firefighters have to maneuver chocks and jacks into place to carefully and securely crib the vehicle. The entire time, they’re exposed to toxic fumes and the fire itself, with the risk of a battery exploding at any moment.

Once the car is cribbed, firefighters still have to get incredibly close to the battery array in order to douse it.

During an EV fire Ryan Twombly, an ex-Marine and Massachusetts firefighter, found himself and his crew “operating on the nozzle less than 3 feet from the undercarriage” of the burning EV. After the event, they began to brainstorm a safer, less exposed way to do it.

It took two years to develop, but Twombly and his team created the Tactical Thermal Reducing Cylinder (TTRC).

The TTRC is a robust steel pipe with hose connections on either end. Stabilizing feet welded to the pipe provide orientation and prevent rolling; slanted slits placed along the top marshal the incoming water into a powerful convex spray, which can deliver 800 gallons per minute at up to 200 psi.

It is, essentially, an extremely high-powered sprinkler:

The invention completely changes the game for firefighters. The vehicle no longer needs to be cribbed; instead the TTRC is slid underneath it, and firefighters can stand well clear while the TTRC does its thing.

The TTRC is now standard equipment on all engines in Twombly’s Hingham Fire Department, and has been adopted by over a dozen other Massachusetts fire departments. Additionally Twombly has formed a company, Fire Ground Tactical, to commercialize the tool.

—

*The stats are about 25 fires per 100,000 EVs sold, or 0.025%. With ICE cars, it’s about 1,530 fires per 100,000 sold, or 1.53%. Overall, less than 2% of car fires are EVs.

Jul
21

By

Enclosed, Air Conditioned Lawn Mowers by Curtis Industries

Category: Core77

A 1958 issue of Mechanix Illustrated featured this Wonderboy X-100, an air-conditioned lawn mower concept.

The concept was by manufacturer Simplicity and, unsurprisingly, never reached production.

Today, however, something very similar exists. Massachusetts-based Curtis Industries, a manufacturer of tractor cabs, has partnered with mower manufacturer Ferris to create this ISX3300 with Premium AC Cab.

It’s got an aluminum frame, tinted polycarbonate windows and, most gloriously for the operator, an air-conditioned cab.

Priced at $11,123.75, it’s out-of-reach for your average homeowner, but not that much more than a commercial zero-turn. And it’s the commercial market the company is targeting.

Curtis points out that aside from the air conditioning, the sealed cab protects the operator from insects and dust. That last one might sound trivial, but as someone who puts in a lot of hours mowing, I’ll say the dust can be horrific. If I did it for a living and all day, I’d much rather spend the extra money, and not finish each session drenched in sweat, covered in lawn debris and having coughing fits.

The machine is also freaking fast, for a mower. In the real-world review below, the reviewer shows it maxing out at 12 mph. That’s more lawns done in a day.

The company also makes John Deere and Kubota variants.

I’m going to go eat my heart out.

Jul
21

By

etienne bastormagi’s mirrored incision opens beirut streetfront to spontaneous encounters

Category: Design Boom

a shrine for the city redefines public and private in beirut

 

A mirrored incision on the streetfront in Beirut shapes a threshold between city and gallery. Titled A Shrine for the City, the ephemeral intervention by Studio Etienne Bastormagi configures a boundary between the institutional and the public realm for a playful spatial interface that is porous and responsive to its surrounding rhythms. During its weeklong installation in July, it invites public use in different ways, from staging spontaneous gatherings to performances and discussions.

 

The reflective intervention coincides with the second anniversary of Takeover Gallery and marks a return for Etienne Bastormagi, whose studio previously occupied the space. As the Lebanese architect notes, his aim is to ‘reframe, not reclaim,’ and by removing the gallery’s facade, the project opens the space fully to the street, rendering what is conventionally an enclosed, curated interior as an outward-facing opening, accessible around the clock.

all images courtesy of Etienne Bastormagi

 

 

etienne bastormagi carves a mirrored open urban threshold

 

The work draws on Beirut’s vernacular language, particularly the mirrored shrines found throughout the city — makeshift memorials or spiritual markers embedded into urban surfaces. A Shrine for the City expands this typology to an architectural scale, without losing its intimacy. The reflective skin invites passersby to pause in their journeys, to glimpse themselves framed in the city, and to step in without instruction. In doing so, it shifts the experience of both gallery and street.

 

The mirrored surfaces reflect, absorb, and invite, and light, movement, and ambient noise are registered as spatial materials themselves. This responsiveness aligns with Etienne Bastormagi’s broader practice, which frequently works within tight constraints to uncover latent spatial potential. Here, the small 20 square meter footprint becomes a site of encounter activated in different conditions at various times of day, with the architecture framing the encounters.

A Shrine for the City redefines public and private

a mirrored incision on the streetfront in Beirut

Studio Etienne Bastormagi configures a boundary between the institutional and the public realm

a playful spatial interface that is porous and responsive to its surrounding rhythms

the reflective intervention coincides with the second anniversary of Takeover Gallery

the architect notes, his aim is to ‘reframe, not reclaim’

the project opens the space fully to the street

a small 20 square meter footprint

created as a site of encounter activated in different conditions at various times of day

 

 

project info:

 

name: A Shrine for the City

architect: Studio Etienne Bastormagi | @studio__etiennebastormagi

location: Takeover Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon

The post etienne bastormagi’s mirrored incision opens beirut streetfront to spontaneous encounters appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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