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The 2025 Core77 Design Awards Toys & Play Winners

The 2025 Professional winner in the Toys & Play is The Handheld Patternmaking Loom from Lauren Puchowski at Boomloom. Our patented design re-imagines the pattern-making loom completely with just two pieces and a fast set-up it uses an intuitive fingertip motion. A rotating bar snaps into place under the threads on a metal frame, as the bar is rotated, it separates different combinations of threads. Users weave a row by passing the yarn through the space between the threads. Rotate the bar one position forward, or back, then weave the next row.

The Student Toys & Play winner is Rockid by Youran Fan, Qingyue Zhuang, Jiayi Wei, Ruiran Liu, and Yixun Bai. Rockid is a smart, modular rock-climbing wall that encourages kids to stay active and healthy while developing their physical strength and motor skills. It boasts an innovative quick-release mechanism in the climbing holds, making it easy for parents or guardians to set up various climbing routes for different challenges.

The jury team for Toys & Play category was led by Jury Captain Rafael Atijas, the Founder and CEO of Loog. The Atijas jury team included Joaquín Uribe, the Founder and CEO of Proyector, and Lucía Guidali, a Play Designer.

The 2025 Toys & Play category consists of consumer products designed for children or adults for the purpose of activating play and creative exploration and includes children’s toys, board games, art supplies, DIY kits, educational toys, electronic toys, musical instruments.

Toys & Play Award Honorees





See All The Honorees of the 2025 Core77 Design Awards Here:

Apps & Platforms | Built Environment | Branding | Commercial & Industrial Equipment | Consumer Technology | Design for Social Impact | Emerging Technologies | Furniture & Lighting | Home & Living | Interaction | Lifestyle Accessories | Medical & Healthcare | Packaging | Speculative Design | Sports & Outdoor | Sustainability | Tools | Toys & Play | Transportation | Visual Communication

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The 2025 Core77 Design Awards Tools Winners

The 2025 Professional winner in the Tools category is Pella Steady Set Interior Installation System from the Pella Corporation. Created by the Pella Innovation Team the Steady Set interior installation is the first and only INTERIOR install system. It directly addresses the obstacles of unsafe, inconsistent, and time-consuming installation due to lack of opening accessibility. This system streamlines the installation process and answers the needs of professionals in the field whether it’s avoiding dangerously tall ladders, uneven ground, weather delays or quality and consistency issues with traditional installs.

The Student Tools winner is Spark by Lenz Connor Bätzing and Mårten Malmnäs at the Umeå Institute of Design. Spark is designed to extend learning beyond the classroom, supporting children with homework, tutoring, or even playful explorations. Spark uses laser projections to create an immersive, hands-on learning environment in combination with analog materials like schoolbooks and notebooks.

The jury team for Tools was led by Jury Captain Irina Kozlovskaya who is the Global Head of Industrial Design and CMF at ABB E-Mobility. Kozkivskaya’s jury team included Annie Jean-Baptiste author of Building for Everyone and Founder and Director of Product Inclusion & Equity at Google, Kenneth Young the Founder and Creative Director at Now Studio, Quan Jasinski the Creative Director at Microsoft Surface Industrial Design, and Eliot Cohen Pirenne the Senior Design Director at Lululemon.

The 2025 Tools category features only consumer products or services designed for individual use with the intention of improving efficiency and productivity, supporting craft, making and personal building this includes hardware tools, productivity applications, educational tools.

Tools & Work Award Honorees





See All The Honorees of the 2025 Core77 Design Awards Here:

Apps & Platforms | Built Environment | Branding | Commercial & Industrial Equipment | Consumer Technology | Design for Social Impact | Emerging Technologies | Furniture & Lighting | Home & Living | Interaction | Lifestyle Accessories | Medical & Healthcare | Packaging | Speculative Design | Sports & Outdoor | Sustainability | Tools | Toys & Play | Transportation | Visual Communication

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The 2025 Core77 Design Awards Sports & Outdoors Winners

The 2025 Professional winner in the Sports & Outdoors category is IXI Autonomous Golf Trolley created by the Future Wave team of Joachim Froment, Quentin Desclee, Thoma Velghe, and engineers at Botorincs. The iXi Golf Trolley offers a fully autonomous, self-driving solution that follows players seamlessly on the course. It solves the problem of manually pushing or pulling heavy golf trolleys, reducing physical strain and allowing golfers to focus entirely on their game.

The Student Sports & Outdoors winner is Ventus T&F Speedsuit by Jacob Kauff from the University of Oregon, Sports Product Design MSc. The Ventus T&F Speedsuit is a distance-specific track and field suit designed to address hot weather conditions expected at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The Ventus speedsuit features small 3D-printed TPU blades, known as vortex generators, which help disrupt the air flow around the body, reducing aerodynamic drag.

The jury team for Sports & Outdoors category was led by Jury Captain Tyler Gilbert, the Design Director at Tyler Gilbert Design. His jury team included Greg Janky, the Principal Designer at Anvil Studios, Bridget Stephas, a Gear Designer at REI, and Kate Locke-Peck, the Director of Footwear Design at Brooks Running.

The 2025 Sports & Outdoors category celebrates consumer products or services created to encourage play, movement, or learning including toys, games, athletic equipment, athletic wear and accessories, and outdoor gear and equipment.

Sports & Outdoors Award Honorees











See All The Honorees of the 2025 Core77 Design Awards Here:

Apps & Platforms | Built Environment | Branding | Commercial & Industrial Equipment | Consumer Technology | Design for Social Impact | Emerging Technologies | Furniture & Lighting | Home & Living | Interaction | Lifestyle Accessories | Medical & Healthcare | Packaging | Speculative Design | Sports & Outdoor | Sustainability | Tools | Toys & Play | Transportation | Visual Communication

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10 Best Campers Of June 2025: Top Picks For Modern Adventure & Comfort

Camping in 2025 is less about compromise and more about finding the perfect blend of comfort, mobility, and design. The best new campers of the year reflect a sharp focus on utility and clever use of space, often surprising with their ability to deliver a home-like experience in a compact footprint. Each model here answers a different kind of wanderlust, whether you’re drawn to rugged off-grid adventures, family road trips, or spontaneous solo escapes.

What unites them isn’t just innovation—it’s the way thoughtful design transforms the journey itself. From modular interiors and lightweight builds to integrated power solutions and unique silhouettes, these ten campers showcase what’s possible when form meets function. If you’re ready to embrace the freedom of the open road this summer, then these impressive designs offer a fresh perspective on what it means to travel well, wherever you park for the night.

1. Hawk+

The Hawk+ by Four Wheel Campers introduces a new dimension to off-grid travel, blending utility with a comfort-focused layout that genuinely respects the realities of life on the road. Its slide-in design sits harmoniously atop a pickup bed, offering an adaptable space that feels open yet well-contained. Accoutered for nomadic life or overland explorations that demand durability as much as comfort, the Hawk+ stands ready for extended off-grid journeys.

The larger onboard space is remarkably well utilized, supporting all the essentials—eating, sleeping, living, and, impressively, ample storage. Every detail reflects a commitment to making life on the road both practical and enjoyable. The galley sits at the heart of the layout, offering a kitchen counter on one side and a cassette toilet cleverly tucked into storage on the other. Storage extends throughout, wrapping around the interior and making organization effortless.

What we like

Spacious layout in a slide-in form, maximizing livability without bulk.
Off-grid readiness ensures longer stays in remote spots.

What we dislike

Size may limit compatibility with some smaller pickups.
The minimalist approach could feel sparse to those seeking luxury finishes.

2. VW Ibex Concept

The VW Ibex concept by Sunlight is poised for the wild, striking a balance between contemporary aesthetics and rugged, go-anywhere capability. At its heart, the Ibex is about pushing boundaries—both literally and figuratively. The high-clearance stance and all-terrain tires signal its off-road ambitions, while the unique silhouette hints at a camper that’s as comfortable on the trail as it is at a festival. The design prioritizes flexibility, with a modular interior that adapts to changing needs.

Inside, the Ibex surprises with a thoughtful use of space. The seating transforms with ease, storage is intuitive, and the ambient lighting gives evenings a cozy, inviting atmosphere. There’s a sense of creative freedom here—a vehicle that doesn’t dictate how you should live, but rather invites you to explore possibilities. The Ibex provides a refreshing take for design lovers on what a modern camper can be, merging utility and personality.

What we like

Modular, reconfigurable interior adapts for work, sleep, and play.
Sturdy off-road build extends camping to remote locations.

What we dislike

As a concept, some features may not reach production.
Larger size may be unwieldy in urban or tight spaces.

3. Traveler Summit

The Traveler Summit from Happier Camper is an ode to nostalgia, bringing retro lines and cheerful colors into a thoroughly modern camping experience. Its lightweight build makes towing uncomplicated, opening up possibilities for smaller vehicles and spontaneous getaways. The modular Adaptiv system allows travelers to reconfigure the interior in minutes, shifting from lounge to sleeping area or workspace as needed. It’s a design that encourages you to embrace the journey as much as the destination.

What’s most interesting in the camper is the sense of playful practicality. Every component feels thoughtfully selected, from the robust storage cubes to the panoramic windows that frame the landscape. There’s no excess here—just smart solutions for making the most of a compact footprint. For those who appreciate flexibility without sacrificing comfort, the Traveler Summit is a reminder that good design can make even small spaces feel expansive.

What we like

Lightweight construction enables easy towing and fuel efficiency.
The Adaptiv interior system offers total layout flexibility.

What we dislike

Limited space may feel tight for more than two people.
Minimal insulation could impact comfort in extreme climates.

 4. Lutz Minicamper

The Lutz Minicamper is all about delivering a tiny home experience in a trailer footprint, catering to campers who crave comfort but refuse to tow a full-size van. Its streamlined shape and clever window placement bring in natural light, making the interior feel airy and open. The kitchen is neatly tucked away yet fully functional, while the convertible seating area ensures that space never feels wasted. There’s a strong emphasis on creating a homelike atmosphere in a portable shell.

The interiors of the Lutz Minicamper are warm and welcoming, and the insulation helps maintain comfort across different weather conditions. It’s the kind of trailer that invites you to linger, to cook a real meal, or to unwind with a good book after a day outdoors. If you’re seeking the balance of mobility and genuine comfort, the Lutz Minicamper is a natural fit.

What we like

Home-like interior with solid insulation for year-round comfort.
Compact, aerodynamic profile makes for easy towing.

What we dislike

Limited standing room may not suit taller individuals.
Smaller water and power reserves require frequent stops.

5. T1 Micro Camper

Grounded’s T1 micro camper reimagines minimalist travel, distilling the essentials into an ultra-compact, electric trike platform. The T1 is about freedom—slipping through city streets or along park trails without the burden of a full-size vehicle. Its micro-cabin houses a convertible bed, a compact kitchenette, and just enough storage for short escapes. Smart features abound, from solar panels to app-based controls, bringing a layer of modern convenience to its pared-down form.

The T1 is fundamentally about movement and efficiency. There’s a liberating sense of not having to plan around parking or campsite restrictions; you can simply ride, stop, and rest. The design is playful yet purposeful, encouraging users to travel light and enjoy the journey. It’s best suited for solo explorers or those who appreciate the challenge of packing smart and living simply.

What we like

Ultra-compact design enables access to narrow trails and urban spots.
Electric powertrain cuts emissions and running costs.

What we dislike

Limited range restricts longer trips.
Minimal amenities may deter those seeking home comforts.

6. Argonaut Teardrop Camper

Argonaut’s teardrop camper brings an exciting and unique personality to compact camping, where every inch is utilized with precision. Its forward-tilting, slanted design isn’t just a visual statement—it creates extra headroom inside, making the cabin feel less confined. Storage is integrated seamlessly into the walls and under the bed, demonstrating a clear understanding of how to maximize utility in a small package. The combination of wood and metal gives the camper a rugged, timeless presence.

Despite its petite form, the Argonaut feels surprisingly accommodating. The raised roofline means you can sit up comfortably, while the durable exterior hints at years of reliable use. The layout manages to balance privacy, storage, and sleeping space without compromise. This camper is amazing at turning smallness into an advantage, making it ideal for travelers who value simplicity and durability.

What we like

Innovative height and shape deliver more headroom and a unique look.
Durable build with metal reinforcements for longevity.

What we dislike

No official off-road credentials might limit extreme adventuring.
Compact size isn’t ideal for extended trips or families.

7. Yoho Pop Up

The Yoho Pop Up takes the classic truck camper and gives it a forward-thinking twist, introducing an auto-expanding pop-top that dramatically increases headroom at camp. The lightweight shell keeps things manageable for mid-sized trucks, while the interior offers all the basics: bed, cookspace, and organized storage. The pop-top is the star, transforming the interior from a compact shell into a space where you can stand, cook, and move with ease.

This camper is truly quite adaptable. Travel with the top down for efficiency, then expand at camp for comfort. The materials are chosen for durability, with a focus on resisting the wear and tear of regular use. The Yoho Pop Up is a clever solution that maximizes every square foot, specially designed for travelers who want a go-anywhere base without the hassle of towing.

What we like

Auto-expanding pop-top delivers standing room in a compact footprint.
Lightweight build suits a wide range of trucks.

What we dislike

The interior may feel sparse for longer stays.
Not suited for larger groups or families.

8. Open Trail 25 AO

The Open Trail 25 AO is built for families, with an interior that prioritizes shared experiences and comfort. The layout is a thoughtful blend of private and communal zones, featuring a spacious main bed, convertible dinette, and bunks for kids. The kitchen is fully equipped, and storage is abundant throughout, making it easy to keep things organized on extended journeys. Its robust chassis and insulation mean you’re prepared for a variety of climates.

The appeal lies in the details that make everyday life easier: a bathroom with a real shower, dedicated storage for gear, and windows that bring in light without compromising privacy. The Open Trail 25 AO isn’t just about moving from place to place—it’s about making the journey feel like home, wherever you park. It is an ideal fit for couples and families seeking an excellent blend of adventure and domestic comfort.

What we like

Family-friendly layout with multiple sleeping zones.
Full bathroom and kitchen enhance livability.

What we dislike

Larger size limits access to rugged or remote sites.
The heavier build requires a strong tow vehicle.

9. Mammoth Overland SKL

The Mammoth Overland SKL is a rooftop camper designed for those who demand ruggedness and self-sufficiency. Its hard shell is built to withstand harsh elements, and the integrated power station keeps devices charged off-grid. The SKL opens up to reveal a surprisingly comfortable sleeping area, elevated above the ground for safety and better views. Storage solutions are smartly tucked away, and the setup time is minimal, making spontaneous stops possible.

The materials are selected for longevity, and the design is intentionally pared back to reduce failure points. It is great for solo travelers or couples who want to venture far from established sites. The SKL offers a sturdy, dependable base that doesn’t weigh you down. It’s an ideal companion for those who see the outdoors as a place to be both comfortable and self-reliant.

What we like

Rugged, insulated shell with integrated off-grid power.
Rooftop design provides safety and unique vantage points.

What we dislike

Limited interior space compared to larger campers.

10. Love Campers VW ID. Buzz Camper Van

A collaboration between Love Campers and Wild Drives has resulted in the VW ID. Buzz camper van—a vibrant, attention-grabbing design that’s available to rent in the UK. Dressed in a playful lime yellow and white dual-tone scheme, the van’s exterior hints at the cheerful atmosphere inside. The matching interior feels genuinely uplifting, giving the impression of stepping into a moving work of art that’s as much about aesthetics as it is about function.

Space is smartly optimized throughout the cabin. The sofa easily slides out, quickly converting into a comfortable double bed, while the kitchen area—set directly opposite—features a sink with a foldaway faucet and an induction hob for easy meal prep. Every detail is considered, from the sustainable materials to the 77kWh battery and rooftop solar panel that keep devices powered up for off-grid journeys.

What we like

Sustainable design is ideal for couples or solo travelers.
Generous battery and solar array capably handle onboard power needs.

What we dislike

Only includes a portable toilet, which may not suit everyone.
Limited sleeping space for more than two people.

The post 10 Best Campers Of June 2025: Top Picks For Modern Adventure & Comfort first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Versatile lighting system brings wellness, versatility, style to your space

I don’t really pay that much attention to the lighting at home, in the office, or whichever coffee shop I end up working in. As long as the light is good enough for me to work or read properly, then I’m satisfied. That’s probably because I’m not involved in designing the space, so I can’t really do anything about it. But if you love looking for lighting solutions that can adapt to your needs, then this concept may capture your attention.

The Wipro EcoLumi Flex is a concept for a modular, sustainable lighting system that functions as both a table lamp and a suspended ceiling light, featuring easy adjustability, customizable layouts, and a slidable shade for glare control. It enhances well-being with auto mode circadian lighting, allowing users to personalize brightness and color temperature throughout the day for optimal comfort and productivity.

Designers: Utkarsh Kulkarni, Sreya Acharyya

Its clever design features a smart, easy-to-use adjustability mechanism. With just a gentle twist, you can fine-tune both the height and the angle of the lamp. Whether you’re working at your desk or want to reimagine your ceiling lighting, this lamp’s flexibility means your light is always right where you need it. One of the standout features is the slidable shade; with a smooth motion, you can open or close the shade to control the direction of the light, reducing glare and enhancing comfort for those focused, productive moments. The modular design is also pretty interesting and useful—each unit can serve as a sleek table lamp or be effortlessly installed as a suspended ceiling light. Thanks to easy-install connectors and angular joints, you can link multiple lights together, crafting custom layouts that make your office truly unique and adaptable to your needs.

EcoLumi Flex is also about wellness. The Auto Mode feature automatically adjusts the color and intensity of the light throughout the day, following your natural circadian rhythm. Enjoy gentle yellow light (3000K) to ease you into the morning, crisp white light (4000K) for midday focus, and energizing blue-white light (5000K) to help you power through the afternoon. With intuitive controls right at your fingertips, you’re always in charge of your environment. This concept is also crafted with sustainability at its core. The modular system allows for easy upgrades and part replacements, reducing waste and ensuring your lighting solution stands the test of time. It’s a thoughtful choice for eco-conscious professionals and collectors who believe great design should also be good for the planet.

Sleek, minimal lines and a matte black finish give EcoLumi Flex a contemporary aesthetic that works beautifully in any setting. In open-plan offices, the coordinated look of multiple table lamps and custom-length ceiling lights creates a harmonious, designer feel and can make your workspace as inspiring as it is functional. Whether you’re passionate about sustainable design, crave flexibility, or are building a collection of future-ready office essentials, this lighting innovation concept can be both useful and inspiring.

The post Versatile lighting system brings wellness, versatility, style to your space first appeared on Yanko Design.

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copper planet installation and red undulating seating anchor venus lounge by asap/ in beijing

Venus Lounge by asap/ Fuses architecture, art, and astronomy

 

Venus Lounge, designed by asap/ adam sokol architecture practice, reconfigures the interior of an existing space into a setting that fuses architecture, art, and astronomy. The design brief called for an unfamiliar interior landscape intended to challenge conventional expectations of lounge environments and to encourage diverse forms of social interaction.

 

At the center of the space, a 5-meter-wide copper representation of the planet Venus forms the primary visual element. Produced in collaboration with artist Paul Taylor, the installation utilizes the 19th-century copper printmaking technique known as photogravure. At this scale, it is considered one of the largest examples of this traditional copper printing method applied in an architectural context.

all images by Jonathan Leijonhufvud

 

 

undulating seating and copper installation shape Venus Lounge

 

The spatial organization by collaborative design practice asap/ follows an undulating layout, designed to maximize varied seating positions and avoid static or predetermined seating patterns. This approach was developed to support multiple modes of social engagement, fulfilling one of the client’s key functional requirements.

 

Material selection and lighting further reinforce the celestial theme while contributing to the overall atmosphere. The Venus Lounge integrates architecture, art, and astronomy into a cohesive interior.

 

the Venus Lounge interior fuses architecture, art, and astronomy

an undulating floor plan encourages varied seating arrangements

the spatial layout avoids static and predictable seating patterns

varied seat orientations invite flexible and informal gatherings

the interior was designed to create an unfamiliar and engaging landscape

the project reconfigures an existing space with a focus on experiential design

material selection and lighting reinforce the celestial and atmospheric theme

a 5-meter-wide copper plate depicting Venus anchors the space

the copper installation reflects changing light conditions throughout the day

the copper installation was produced using 19th-century photogravure techniques

artist Paul Taylor collaborated on the creation of the Venus centerpiece

the photogravure technique gives the Venus image intricate surface detail

finishes and textures complement the metallic focal element

the lounge functions as both a social setting and an immersive art installation

 

project info:

 

name: Venus Lounge

architect: asap/ adam sokol architecture practice | @asap_architecture

location: Beijing, China

area: 25 sqm

 

lead architect: Adam Sokol, AIA

principal architect: Boris Morin-Defoy

principal designer: Breanna Browning

custom furniture: Stitch NYC

copper engraving: Renaissance Press

photographer: Jonathan Leijonhufvud | @jonathan_leijonhufvud

 

 

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: christina vergopoulou | designboom

The post copper planet installation and red undulating seating anchor venus lounge by asap/ in beijing appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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Saramonic Air Wireless Mic Brings Retro-Futuristic Flair to Creators’ Toolkits

Audio equipment typically prioritizes function over form, leaving content creators with gear that performs well but looks utterly forgettable. The new Saramonic Air wireless microphone system breaks this convention entirely, wrapping professional-grade recording capabilities inside a design that genuinely deserves attention. This dual-channel system transforms the mundane necessity of wireless audio into something that actually enhances your creative setup.

The design language speaks volumes about Saramonic’s intentions here. Rather than following the typical black-box approach, the Air system embraces retro-futuristic aesthetics with refined metal shells and carefully considered proportions. The galactic gray finish catches light beautifully, while subtle internal illumination adds a sophisticated touch that suggests premium engineering. Every curve and angle feels intentional, creating visual harmony that complements modern cameras and mobile devices.

Designer: Saramonic

Weighing just 11 grams each, the transmitters practically disappear when clipped onto clothing, yet their compact form houses impressive technical capabilities. The 9.7mm lavalier microphone features a 6mm diaphragm that captures significantly more detail than standard alternatives. This larger surface area translates into richer audio reproduction, from deep bass tones to crisp high frequencies that bring interviews and dialogue to life.

The charging case deserves particular recognition as a design masterpiece. Its transparent lid reveals the transmitters inside like precious instruments, while LED battery indicators provide essential information without cluttering the aesthetic. The pocket-friendly dimensions ensure portability never becomes a compromise, and the automatic charging function eliminates workflow interruptions. This attention to both form and function exemplifies thoughtful industrial design.

Technical sophistication hides beneath the beautiful exterior. Two-level intelligent noise cancellation suppresses ambient sound without introducing unwanted artifacts, while customizable EQ modes enhance vocal clarity naturally. The built-in limiter protects against audio spikes, and a safety track provides additional security for critical recordings. These features work transparently, allowing creators to focus on content rather than technical adjustments.

Connectivity options reflect modern production needs perfectly. USB-C, Lightning, and traditional 3.5mm outputs ensure compatibility across virtually any device combination. The system can simultaneously feed two devices, supporting workflows where creators need to record for both professional cameras and social media platforms. The receiver’s full-color display provides real-time monitoring without requiring separate apps or complicated setup procedures.

The front-facing pickup design minimizes plosives while maintaining a clean on-camera appearance. This consideration for visual aesthetics extends the design philosophy beyond mere technical specifications. Content creators can confidently feature the microphone system in their shots, knowing it enhances rather than detracts from production value.

Professional creators will appreciate how the Air system elevates their entire kit’s visual appeal. The retro-futuristic design suggests serious attention to craft, while the compact form factor respects the mobile nature of modern content creation. At $139 to $169 depending on configuration, this system delivers both striking aesthetics and genuine performance improvements that justify the investment for creators who value both sound quality and visual design.

The post Saramonic Air Wireless Mic Brings Retro-Futuristic Flair to Creators’ Toolkits first appeared on Yanko Design.

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ai weiwei to debut installation in ukraine inspired by leonardo da vinci’s divina proportione

Ai weiwei’s installation in ukraine opens in september 2025

 

Ai Weiwei to introduce a major art installation commission in Ukraine, inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s Divina Proportione. Set to premiere on September 14th, 2025, at the cultural space Pavilion 13, the announcement follows the commission by the RIBBON International, in cooperation with Pavilion of Culture and FORMA Architects. The new work, titled Three Perfectly Proportioned Spheres and Camouflage Uniforms Painted White, comprises a series of military camouflage uniforms roll-painted in white, combining the symbolism of purity with the imagery of military.

all images courtesy of Pavilion of Culture, unless stated otherwise

 

 

Commentary on chaos of militarism and conflict

 

The spheres in the new Ai Weiwei installation in Ukraine are a reference to Leonardo da Vinci’s Divina Proportione, which is a known Renaissance manuscript written by Luca Pacioli and illustrated by the Italian polymath and artist. By combining these spheres with camouflage uniforms painted white, the artist attempts to draw a contrast between the ideals of reason and the real-world chaos of militarism and conflict. For him, the artwork is a commentary about the ideas that came from the Enlightenment period – including rationality, reason, order, and logic – that are now being misused or manipulated. As Ai Weiwei puts it, art becomes a poetic gesture, suggesting meaning without always making it known or revealed explicitly.

 

Ai Weiwei’s installation in Ukraine is site-specific, specially for Pavilion 13, a work of architecture built in 1967 at the Exhibition Centre VDNG in Kyiv as an exhibition space promoting the achievements of the coal industry of the Ukrainian SSR. This is the artist’s first commission in Ukraine, and the installation grows out of Ai Weiwei’s long-standing interest in the impact of war and conflict on humanity. His previous works comment on the way power systems manipulate ideals and symbols, from the refugee crisis (Law of the Journey in 2017) and corruption and state failure (Straight from 2008 to 2012) to mass production (Sunflower Seeds in 2010) and cultural erasure (Whitewash in 1995). Ai Weiwei’s installation in Ukraine opens at Pavilion 13 in Kyiv starting September 14th, 2025.

 

view of the Pavilion 13 in Kyiv, Ukrain where Ai Weiwei is set to debut his installation in September 2025

exterior view of the pavilion

Three Perfectly Proportioned Spheres and Camouflage Uniforms Painted White is the title of the work | from here, images courtesy of RIBBON International and Ai Weiwei, via Instagram

the work comprises a series of military camouflage uniforms roll-painted in white

portrait of Ai Weiwei

 

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by RIBBON International (@ribbon.international)

 

 

project info:

 

name: Three Perfectly Proportioned Spheres and Camouflage Uniforms Painted White

artist: Ai Weiwei | @aiww

commission: RIBBON International | @ribbon.international

firm: FORMA Architects | @forma_ua

space: Pavilion 13 by Pavilion of Culture | @pavilionofculture

location: Akademika Glushkova Ave., 1, Pavilion 13, VDNG, Kyiv, Ukraine

starting date: September 14th, 2025

The post ai weiwei to debut installation in ukraine inspired by leonardo da vinci’s divina proportione appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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frank lloyd wright’s ‘fountainhead’ residence, a rare usonian, hits the market in mississippi

Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house opens for sale in Mississippi

 

A rare opportunity to inhabit a piece of American architectural history arrives with the listing of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fountainhead residence in Jackson, Mississippi. Priced at €2.13 million ($2.5 million), the three-bedroom home is one of the few Usonian houses ever built and the only Frank Lloyd Wright property in the state, making it a remarkable example of organic architecture. Designed in 1948 when Frank Lloyd Wright was 81 years old, Fountainhead reflects his continued involvement in architectural work late in life. The design stays consistent with the ideas he had developed over decades, showing that his approach remained steady rather than changing to fit newer trends or outside pressures.

images courtesy of Crescent Sotheby’s International Realty

 

 

Fountainhead’s Diamond Shape Guides Every Aspect of the Design

 

Fountainhead sits at 306 Glenway Drive in Fondren, a lively mid-century neighborhood in Jackson. Wright designed the house specifically for its site, staying true to his belief that architecture should work with the landscape. The building’s diamond-shaped shell, based on a parallelogram, came directly from the shape of the lot. The shape carries through the entire design, appearing in the pattern of the concrete floors, guiding how the walls are positioned, and even influencing the scale of the doors, creating a quiet sense of cohesion that feels deliberate without drawing too much attention to itself.

 

Built in 1951, the 330-square-meter house was constructed without stud walls, drywall, or paint, a deliberate choice that leaves the materials exposed. The architect used Tidewater Red Cypress for the walls and ceilings, a durable wood with a rich, reddish color that brings warmth and texture to the interior. The original copper roof is still in place, a testament to the solid construction of the building and carefully chosen materials. Wide stretches of glass open the house to its surroundings, letting in daylight and views of the garden. Inside, built-in furniture and storage, a signature of Wright’s work, keep the spaces uncluttered and quietly functional.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fountainhead residence in Jackson, Mississippi hits the market for the first time

 

 

a name that reflects inspiration

 

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fountainhead holds a special place in Mississippi’s cultural history. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and stands as both a private home and a reminder of the architect’s approach to how people live. The house sits on nearly 4,000 square meters of land, surrounded by lush greenery that provides privacy, yet it’s still just a short walk from Fondren’s mix of shops, restaurants, and art spots.

 

Wright is said to have named the house Fountainhead to reflect the idea of a source of creativity. Today, the home still feels like that, a wellspring of thoughtful design and clear vision. 

the three-bedroom home is one of the few Usonian houses ever built

Fountainhead is the only Frank Lloyd Wright property in the state

a remarkable example of organic architecture

designed in 1948 when Frank Lloyd Wright was 81 years old

the design stays consistent with the ideas the architect had developed over decades

Wright designed the house specifically for its site

built-in furniture and storage keep the spaces uncluttered and quietly functional

Tidewater Red Cypress clads the walls and ceilings

wide stretches of glass open the house to its surroundings

Wright is said to have named the house Fountainhead to reflect the idea of a source of creativity

 

 

project info:

 

name: Fountainhead

architect: Frank Lloyd Wright | @wrighttaliesin

location: 306 Glenway Drive, Jackson, Mississippi, 39216, USA

completion: 1951

interior space area: 330.55 square meters (3,558 square feet) 

site area: 3,926 square meters (0.97 acre)

listed with: Douglas Adams and David Abner Smith

real estate agency: Crescent Sotheby’s International Realty | @sothebysrealty

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NASA to grow habitats in space for explorers using bricks made from mycelium

Space habitats made of mycelium by NASA

 

NASA advances its research to grow habitats in space for explorers and researchers using bricks made from mycelium. Called Mycotecture Off Planet, a team of researchers at NASA’s Ames Research Center in California, led by Lynn Rothschild, develops the project, which has recently received funding from NASA’s Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC) program to continue their work. 

The NASA team’s goal is to create mycelium-made habitats out of Earth that can be grown rather than delivered fully built to save weight and space on rockets and make it easier to set up safe shelters once astronauts arrive on the Moon or Mars. Instead of launching large buildings, astronauts would take a lightweight, flat-packed structure made with dormant fungal materials, and once they land, they would add water to the structure.

all images courtesy of NASA

 

 

Biomaterial project enters the third and final phase

 

By adding the liquid, the root-like network of mycelium would ‘wake up,’ and it would begin to grow and shape itself around the structure. Over time, the fungi would fill out the form and harden into a safe, livable shelter. The whole system would be contained, meaning there’s no risk of the fungi spreading uncontrollably or harming the surrounding environments. This project has already made a lot of progress in earlier phases of development, with the team having created several types of materials made from fungi, built sample structures, and tested how the materials perform in simulated space environments. They’ve even added features like radiation shielding to make the habitats safer for humans and have also drawn up detailed plans for what a fungal moon habitat could look like.

 

Aside from using the mycelium habitats in space, NASA’s project could be useful on Earth since fungi could help clean water through filtration or extract useful minerals from wastewater and support efforts to fight climate change and pollution. The team has now reached Phase III, which is the final and most advanced phase in the NIAC program, and from here, they expect to focus on improving the material’s strength, durability, and safety. They also plan to begin preparing the technology for future tests in low Earth orbit, the region just outside Earth’s atmosphere where satellites and the International Space Station orbit, and if all goes well, the fungi-based habitat system could be used on commercial space stations, future Moon bases, and eventually even on Mars.

stool created by a NASA-funded project using the same fungal mycelia that create bricks on Earth

view of a stool constructed out of mycelia after two weeks of growth

NASA advances its research to grow habitats in space using bricks made from mycelium

 

 

project info:

 

name: Mycotecture Off Planet

agency: NASA | @nasa
division: Ames Research Center | @nasaames

program: NASA’s Innovative Advanced Concepts (NIAC)

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