Hagibis USB C Hub Brings Buttons and Lights to Your Desk, But Is It Enough?

If you have ever longed for more buttons on your desk, the Hagibis USB C Hub with Shortcut Buttons might catch your eye. This little gadget looks like something from a spaceship control panel, complete with a big, satisfying knob and four shortcut buttons arranged neatly around it. It is as if someone decided that USB hubs needed a bit more drama and a lot more color.

The first thing you notice is that this hub is not shy about its looks. The knob is front and center, rimmed with RGB lighting that adds just the right amount of flair. The ABS plastic shell keeps it light and easy to move around, so you can find the perfect spot for it among your growing collection of desk toys. It is the kind of thing you want to reach out and twist, even if you are not sure what it does yet.

Designer: Hagibis

Plug it in, and you get a decent spread of ports: USB-C for charging, a few USB-A slots for your keyboard and mouse, HDMI for an extra screen, and card slots for all your camera transfers. There is even an audio jack for plugging in headphones, making it a handy little hub for most laptop users. No more wrestling with dongles just to get your gear connected.

Then come the physical controls, which are the real stars of the show. The big knob handles your volume, letting you turn your sound up or down with a simple twist, and a quick press mutes everything in an instant. The four shortcut buttons? They are set to lock your computer, lock the screen, switch the hub’s lighting, and take a screenshot. It is all very direct and, honestly, a bit refreshing if you are tired of endless clicking and tapping.

But here is where things get interesting, and maybe a little frustrating. As fun as it is to have a chunky knob and a few buttons, their functions are completely fixed. You cannot remap them, so if you were dreaming of custom shortcuts for your favorite apps or creative tools, you are out of luck. The hub feels great for the basics, but it is hard not to wish for just a little more flexibility, especially if you are a designer or someone who loves to tweak their setup.

That is not to say it is a bad product. For anyone who wants quick access to locking their workstation or snapping screenshots, it works right out of the box. The RGB lighting adds personality, and the hub does help cut down on cable chaos. It is just that the design hints at so much more, if only those buttons could do whatever you wanted.

The Hagibis USB C Hub with Shortcut Buttons proves that a little bit of tactility can liven up your workspace. It is a fun, visually striking gadget that makes a statement, even if it does not quite live up to its full potential. For now, it is a conversation starter, a useful hub, and maybe a sign that the best button is the one you get to choose yourself.

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BricBloc Stacks Up Charging, Storage, and Connectivity in One Clever Block

Desks have a way of turning into jungles of cables, chargers, and mystery gadgets. With every new device, the mess seems to multiply, crowding out precious workspace and making even a simple coffee break an exercise in cable dodging. As our digital lives get busier, the hunt for ways to keep things neat and easy gets more important by the day.

When table space runs out, the only way is up. That is where BricBloc comes in. This clever 3-in-1 concept stacks a fast charger, SSD, and screen expansion hub into a single, compact desktop accessory. By combining three essential tools in one neat block, it promises to tackle clutter and streamline your setup, not just at home but anywhere you need to work.

Designers: Jianshen Yuan, Boyuan Pan (Suosi Design)

Weighing just 185 grams, BricBloc is built for life on the move. It lightens your daily load, declutters your workspace, and keeps your gear list short and sweet. Whether you are packing for a coffee shop session or catching a flight, this all-in-one block means less bulk and fewer things to forget. It is the kind of smart integration that makes you wonder why more tech does not try to do more with less.

Design-wise, BricBloc keeps things sharp and simple. Its minimalist geometric style is all about clean lines and compact forms, with each module stacking like a perfect little tech skyscraper. There is something satisfying about the way it clicks together, giving you a sense of order and control that is hard to find in a tangle of dongles and chargers.

The modular system is both practical and elegant. A GaN charging block forms the sturdy base, the SSD module sits right on top, and the USB-C/HDMI hub rounds out the tower. Gold pogo pins connect each piece, letting power and data flow smoothly through the stack. No dangling wires, no fiddly connectors, just a tidy block that does the job.

What really makes BricBloc stand out is its translucent matte shell. This soft finish tones down the usual “serious tool” vibe of most tech gear, giving it a friendly, almost playful feel on your desk. It is a refreshing change from the usual black boxes, making your workspace look lighter and a little more inviting, all while keeping things running smoothly.

BricBloc is still a concept for now, but it is easy to see the appeal. It is a thoughtful, efficient way to bring order to chaos, stacking up power, storage, and connections in one spot and letting you get back to work, or play, without the clutter.

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Reviving Frank Lloyd Wright’s Legacy: Imperial Hotel Kyoto’s “Old Is New” Philosophy Transforms 90-Year-Old Theater

When Frank Lloyd Wright designed the original Imperial Hotel Tokyo, in 1923, he unknowingly initiated an architectural lineage that would span three generations of Ja, he unknowingly initiated an architectural lineage that would span three generations of Japanese designers and nearly a century of cultural evolution. That lineage reaches its most sophisticated expression in the upcoming Imperial Hotel, Kyoto, where the paradoxical design philosophy of “the oldest things are the newest” guides the transformation of a 90-year-old theater into a 55-room boutique hotel opening Spring 2026.

Design: Frank Lloyd Wright + Tokusaburo Kimura + Mr. Tomoyuki Sakakida

The project represents far more than historic preservation. Under the direction of Tomoyuki Sakakida of New Material Research Laboratory, co-founded with renowned photographer Hiroshi Sugimoto, the hotel embodies an archaeological approach to contemporary design that challenges fundamental assumptions about luxury, authenticity, and cultural stewardship. Their methodology researches and develops “new materials” from ancient and medieval techniques through radical reinterpretation, creating what may be the hospitality industry’s most comprehensive example of circular design philosophy in practice.

The Wright-Kimura-Sakakida Continuum

The architectural DNA connecting Wright’s original Imperial Hotel to today’s Kyoto project flows through Tokusaburo Kimura, the respected Obayashi Corporation architect who designed the Yasaka Kaikan in 1936. Research reveals that Kimura’s work was profoundly shaped by both Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright. His Shochikuza Theater in Osaka featured American-made terracotta and evoked Sullivan’s distinctive style, while his Pontocho Kaburenjo Theater in Kyoto incorporated scratch tiles originally brought to Japan by Wright for the Imperial Hotel Tokyo construction.

The Yasaka Kaikan stands as the culmination of Kimura’s architectural evolution, where Sullivan’s ornamental philosophy merged with Wright’s organic principles and traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Both the original Imperial Hotel and the Yasaka Kaikan feature terracotta from Tokoname, manufactured by the same artisans who worked across both projects. This shared material heritage creates an authentic connection that transcends stylistic influence to encompass actual physical continuity.

Ms. Reiko Sakata, General Manager of the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto and a 22-year Imperial Hotel veteran appointed in April 2025, emphasizes this historical depth: “This is a unique property where over a millennium of Kyoto’s cultural heritage enfolds the 135-year legacy of hospitality Imperial Hotel has carefully cultivated.” The hotel’s mission extends beyond exceptional service to preserving the “lasting warmth” that connects guests to place and tradition.

The contemporary interpretation falls to Sakakida, whose New Material Research Laboratory has spent over a decade developing what they term “archaeological architecture.” Founded in 2008 with Sugimoto, the laboratory’s approach treats historical materials and techniques as living resources rather than museum artifacts. Their philosophy advocates for reconnecting the present with bygone eras while extending that connection to the future through thoughtful intervention.

“Your Stage Awaits”: Design as Performance

The hotel’s positioning as a “sanctuary nestled beside the brilliance of Gion’s performing arts” that “begins a new chapter that revitalized, yet deeply rooted in its legacy” establishes a theatrical metaphor that permeates every design decision. The concept of “Your Stage Awaits” transforms hospitality from passive accommodation into active cultural participation, where “comfort takes center stage in every moment you spend.”

This performance-centered approach honors the Yasaka Kaikan’s original function as a “stunning venue originally designed for theatrical performances” while creating new opportunities for guests to engage with Kyoto’s living cultural heritage. The design maintains the building’s dramatic proportions and acoustical considerations, ensuring that public spaces retain the theatrical scale and sight lines that defined the original experience.

The theatrical heritage extends beyond metaphor to material reality. Eaves tiles engraved with the character “歌” (uta, meaning singing) represent the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo’s performance legacy, while the building’s multi-tiered roof and tower-like front section maintain the Japanese-inspired design that has defined Gion’s protected townscape for nearly a century.

Advanced Preservation as Design Innovation

The transformation demonstrates extraordinary technical sophistication through what Obayashi Corporation terms “selective demolition” and “capturing for reuse” advanced techniques that strategically retain key structural and aesthetic elements while enabling comprehensive renovation. The process involved reinforcing existing exterior walls with steel framing during phased demolition, allowing the building’s iconic silhouette to remain intact while meeting contemporary hospitality standards.

Masahiro Inoue, Senior General Manager of Obayashi’s Architectural Design & Engineering Division and leader of the Traditional Architecture and Heritage Project Team, brings international perspective from studying design in the UK, where adaptive reuse is commonplace. His approach emphasizes carrying forward “the memories and history embedded in the building into the future,” treating preservation as creative practice rather than conservation constraint.

The material preservation extends to architectural details that encode cultural meaning. 16,387 original exterior tiles have been preserved using traditional Japanese ikedori or “live capture” techniques, where materials are carefully removed without damage for reuse. Terracotta elements receive particular attention, with pieces in good condition carefully restored and damaged sections scanned in 3D for faithful reproduction using original Tokoname manufacturing techniques.

The preservation of terracotta creates direct material continuity with Wright’s Imperial Hotel, as both buildings feature ceramics from Ina Seito (later INAX, now LIXIL) in Tokoname City. This shared material heritage represents one of the finest examples of Japanese architectural ceramics from the early 20th century, when Western architectural techniques merged with traditional Japanese craftsmanship to create distinctly modern expressions.

Cultural Stewardship Through Design

The hotel’s location within the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo grounds adds layers of cultural complexity that inform every design decision. The Kaburenjo, a nationally registered tangible cultural property completed in 1913, originally served as a temple before adaptation as a theater for maiko and geiko performances. The building has hosted the famous Miyako Odori spring dance since 1873, making it one of Japan’s most significant venues for traditional performing arts.

This context shapes the hotel’s approach to spatial design and guest experience. Rather than treating traditional culture as backdrop for luxury hospitality, the design creates opportunities for authentic engagement with living heritage practices. The seven-story structure will house 55 guestrooms and suites designed to honor the building’s performance heritage while providing contemporary comfort, with public spaces maintaining the dramatic proportions and acoustical considerations of the original theater.

The New Material Research Laboratory’s “archaeological architecture” approach treats the building as a palimpsest—layers of meaning and history that remain visible and integral to the new function. Their methodology researches traditional techniques not as museum artifacts but as living resources that can inform contemporary practice. The approach demonstrates how preservation can enhance rather than constrain contemporary design, creating experiences that feel both rooted in place and relevant to present needs.

The construction team has embraced community engagement throughout the process, participating in local cleanup efforts and cultural events that reinforce the hotel’s role as cultural steward rather than external developer. This approach reflects the broader philosophy of architecture as social practice, where buildings serve communities rather than merely accommodating guests.

International Context, Japanese Expression

Inoue’s experience studying design in the UK informed the project’s approach to adaptive reuse, noting that “in Europe, such adaptive reuses are quite common” and that “new construction and renovation were often handled side by side.” This international perspective positions the Imperial Hotel, Kyoto within global heritage preservation trends while maintaining distinctly Japanese approaches to cultural stewardship.

The project demonstrates how contemporary luxury hospitality can embrace environmental responsibility without compromising guest experience. The preservation-first approach dramatically reduces the project’s carbon footprint compared to new construction, while the retention of original materials maintains the building’s embodied energy and cultural significance.

Dining concepts will showcase Kyoto’s position as Japan’s culinary capital while honoring the building’s role as community gathering place. The signature restaurant and bar maintain the original architecture’s community-focused design while providing luxury dining experiences that reflect seasonal ingredients and traditional preparation methods. The wellness facilities, including spa, swimming pool, and fitness center, incorporate principles of wa (harmony) that emphasize balance between physical wellness and spiritual tranquility.

“Uniting the Finest Artistry and Technology”

The project’s tagline of “uniting the finest artistry and technology, we breathe life into the timeless legacy of Gion” encapsulates the New Material Research Laboratory’s approach to contemporary design. By treating preservation as innovation rather than constraint, the project demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship can inform cutting-edge hospitality experiences.

The hotel will offer comprehensive wellness amenities designed using principles that reference both the building’s theatrical heritage and Kyoto’s temple garden traditions. Water features and spatial design create environments that feel both familiar and extraordinary, honoring the building’s role in Kyoto’s cultural ecosystem while meeting contemporary luxury standards.

As the fourth property in the Imperial Hotel portfolio following Tokyo, Osaka, and Kamikochi, this marks the brand’s first new opening in three decades. The extended development timeline, with construction completion scheduled for October 2025 and opening in Spring 2026, reflects the project’s commitment to getting every preservation detail right while building anticipation among design enthusiasts and cultural tourists worldwide.

The property’s acceptance into The Leading Hotels of the World collection in April 2025 provides international recognition of its unique integration of cultural preservation, sustainable design, and exceptional service standards. This prestigious affiliation positions the hotel within a global luxury context while maintaining its deeply local character and cultural mission.

Setting New Standards for Heritage Hospitality

The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto project challenges industry assumptions about the relationship between luxury and authenticity. By choosing restoration over new construction, Imperial Hotel demonstrates how heritage preservation can enhance rather than constrain contemporary hospitality experiences. The approach proves that guests increasingly value authentic connection to place and culture over generic luxury amenities.

Inoue reflects on the project’s broader significance: “It’s hard to put into words what it feels like to engage with Kimura’s blueprints – almost as if speaking across time. And that is precisely what makes the rebirth of the historic Yasaka Kaikan as a hotel so meaningful for future generations.” This temporal dialogue between past and present architects exemplifies the project’s approach to design as cultural continuity rather than stylistic imitation.

The New Material Research Laboratory’s “archaeological architecture” approach offers a compelling model for future heritage hospitality projects. By treating preservation as creative practice rather than constraint, the methodology demonstrates how contemporary design can honor the past while serving present needs and protecting future possibilities. For Yanko Design’s design-conscious audience, this project represents the future of hospitality design, where preservation and innovation create value greater than the sum of their parts.

The Imperial Hotel, Kyoto establishes a new model for heritage hospitality that honors the past while serving contemporary needs. The project demonstrates that true luxury emerges from authentic connection to place, culture, and craft, principles that Frank Lloyd Wright himself championed and that continue to guide exceptional hospitality design today.

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Recycled construction materials breathes new life in Stockholm port

Imagine strolling through Stockholm’s bustling port and stumbling upon a piece of public furniture that’s pretty eye-catching. It’s not something that you can expect to see in this part of the city. At first, they look just like discarded construction materials that were left to just rot away. But the closer you look at it, you’ll realize that while they are indeed “trash” left over, they have been redesigned for a specific purpose and tells a story of transformation and sustainability.

That’s exactly what X-TRAKOJAN, a creation by designer Nicholas Niemen, brings to the city’s waterfront by turning discarded construction debris into something beautiful, functional, and meaningful. It is more than just a bench or a seat. It’s a bold piece of public furniture made entirely from recycled construction waste. Niemen’s project is a testament to creative reuse and environmental responsibility. By gathering leftover materials from construction sites around Stockholm, he assembled these fragments into a striking X-shaped structure that invites locals and tourists alike to pause, sit, and connect with their surroundings.

Designer: Nicholas Niemen

The design is both simple and ingenious. X-TRAKOJAN consists of timber beams, concrete chunks, and other salvaged building elements, meticulously pieced together to create a sturdy and comfortable place to rest. The X-shape isn’t just for aesthetics. It also offers stability, ensuring the bench can withstand the harsh Scandinavian weather and the bustle of the port. This creation is more than just functional. Each segment tells a story, bearing the marks and textures of its former life. Look closely, and you might spot traces of old paint, worn-down corners, or the rough edges of concrete that once formed part of a building’s foundation. These details invite people to reflect on the journey from waste to wonder.

Construction waste is a significant problem in cities worldwide, with tons of material ending up in landfills every year. By reimagining these leftovers as resources rather than refuse, projects like this shine a light on the potential for circular design. Niemen’s work is a gentle reminder that sustainability can be stylish, practical, and even playful. For Stockholm’s port, X-TRAKOJAN adds a unique character with a blend of urban history and modern design. It’s also a conversation starter, prompting discussions about how we build, discard, and reuse in our cities.

Perhaps the best part of X-TRAKOJAN is its inclusivity. Designed for public use, it welcomes everyone: tired travelers, curious children, or anyone in need of a moment’s rest by the water. For collectors and design enthusiasts, it’s a must-see example of how eco-conscious thinking can intersect with art and architecture. It challenges us to see value in the overlooked and to imagine new beginnings for old materials. As cities around the world search for sustainable solutions, projects like this remind us that with a little creativity, even construction waste can find a second life.

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Bülk Distance Velomobile reinvents long-haul cycling with a weatherproof modular shell

If you’ve ever wished your bicycle could shield you from unpredictable weather, fatigue, and the limitations of exposed riding, the Bülk Distance velomobile might be exactly what you’re looking for. Developed by Velomobile World with input from experienced cyclists and aerodynamic engineers, this vehicle turns human power into long-range performance inside a sleek, protective shell. Not as swanky as the Twike 5, but still a utilitarian trike for urban mobility that gets the job done.

At about 104 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 34 inches tall, the Bülk Distance is built for extended road use. It weighs just under 66 pounds and rides low with a ground clearance of 3.3 inches at the front and 3.1 inches at the rear. Its aerodynamic form was shaped using computational fluid dynamics, with support from Prof. Eric Helter, to reduce drag, increase downforce, and deliver stable handling at high speeds.

Designer: Velomobile World

The standout feature is its removable top shell. This modular design allows riders to adapt to varying weather conditions. In colder or wet environments, the shell can be fully enclosed. On hot days, it can be removed completely or adjusted partially for better airflow. A front-mounted ventilation hood improves airflow and helps prevent visor fogging, keeping visibility clear in damp or changing climates. Inside, the seating has been redesigned for greater comfort. Riders get more shoulder room, extra leg space, and a seat that can be adjusted with more precision. The entrance has been widened to make getting in and out easier, especially for taller users. Although the longer wheelbase reduces turning tightness, this tradeoff boosts high-speed stability, which is essential for open-road cycling.

Performance updates are equally important. The rear suspension has been fine-tuned to smooth out road vibration over long rides. The drivetrain now accommodates larger cassettes for better support on hilly terrain. The steering system has been improved for better responsiveness at speed. These upgrades make the velomobile more capable across varied distances and terrain without wearing down the rider. Safety features include integrated lighting at the front and rear, making the velomobile visible in low-light conditions. The low profile and aerodynamic shape enhance both road grip and side-wind resistance. Inside, there is ample space for carrying essentials or light gear, supporting use for both long-distance rides and day-to-day travel. The oversized access hatches and exposed wheel arches are designed for easier maintenance.

The Bülk Distance reflects years of user input and thousands of test miles. It is not just an exercise in speed or design, but a practical response to real needs. Every adjustment, from the shell structure to the drivetrain flexibility, is meant to improve the rider’s long-term experience. Pricing starts at around $14,000 for the standard version. Riders also have the option to choose between fully pedal-powered and electric-assist configurations. Whether you are commuting across town or cycling across borders, the Bülk Distance offers a protected, efficient, and highly adaptable way to travel.

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Lancer300 Modular Backpack Powers Up Adventures for Creators on the Move

Every content creator dreams of that one piece of gear that can do it all. The Lancer300 backpack looks like it might just be that bag. Forget ordinary packs that leave you untangling cables and digging for batteries, this backpack is a modular, techy powerhouse that was clearly designed with creators in mind. If your camera, drone, or laptop is your constant companion, the Lancer300 might be about to become your new best friend.

What sets this backpack apart is its exoskeleton frame, ready for action and built tough enough to handle all sorts of adventures. The modular design is the main event here. You start with the core backpack, but everything else is up to you. Attach or remove modules like the top pouch or the power station, depending on the day’s mission. One day you are hiking with just the basics, the next you are loaded for a full day of shooting, all without changing bags.

Designer: Coalax

The real star, though, is the included power station. This clever upgrade turns your backpack into a mobile charging hub, with cables routed neatly through the frame. Now you can charge your cameras, drones, or even a laptop, right from your pack. There is no more hunting for outlets or carrying six different battery banks. Being able to keep your gear topped up while you are out in the wild is a game-changer for anyone who has ever watched their battery drop just as the perfect shot appears.

Then there is the magic arm: a hands-free, multi-angle tripod mount that attaches right to the backpack’s frame. It is like having an extra set of hands on standby. Mount your camera, phone, or action cam and start filming, streaming, or snapping photos without ever unpacking. Adjust the angle, set the shot, and focus on your creativity, not on balancing gear on rocks or tree branches. It is the kind of solution that makes you wonder how you ever managed without it.

All this power and flexibility does come at a cost, the Lancer300 is on the heavier side, even when empty. But if you are serious about content creation, the trade-off is worth it. The bag is built to distribute weight comfortably, and the rugged materials mean it will stand up to rough handling, bad weather, and the chaos of travel.

The Lancer300 backpack is not just another bag. It is a mobile basecamp for creators who live for adventure and do not want to leave their tools behind. With its modular build, built-in power, and clever mounting options, it keeps your hands free and your gear running, so you can stay focused on capturing the moment, wherever your story takes you.

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