These annual rankings were last updated on April 4, 2025. Want to see your firm on next years list? Continue reading for more on how you can improve your studios ranking.Spain is comprised of a culturally rich landscape adorned with Christian, Muslim and Jewish iconography. Spains global architectural influence is also attributed to its colonial rule over Latin America, which expanded its architectural power in the 16th century and has since found its way back to the architectural lexicon through the Spanish Revival style. The rich ornament and decoration in its historic architecture continue in the contemporary context. Think 19th-century Catalan Modernism, spearheaded by the famous Antoni Gaud: structures like the Sagrada Famlia are far from unadorned.The 19th century also brought forth a boom in urban development, with large city expansions and increased attention to urbanization (the term was actually coined in Barcelona); such planning efforts continue to inform the nations public housing projects of today. Following the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, a lively architectural culture flourished to some, the epitome of democratic design as figures like Oriol Bohigas and Rafael Moneo positioned Spain at the forefront of global architectural discussions. Today, evaluations of the Bilbao Effect and the legacy of architects like Ricardo Bofill continue to dominate design conversations.With so many architecture firms to choose from, its challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Spain based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.How are these architecture firms ranked?The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firms level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firms ranking, in order of priority:The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2025)The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2025)The number of projects selected as Project of the Day (2009 to 2025)The number of projects selected as Featured Project (2009 to 2025)The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2025)Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Spain architecture firms throughout the year.Without further ado, here are the 30 best architecture firms in Spain:30. NOMO STUDIO NOMO STUDIONOMO studio is based in Barcelona and Stockholm. We are a young multidisciplinary team of architects and designers within various fields of architecture and product design. We do not resign ourselves to anything less than creativity, uniqueness and strong concepts in our work.Some of NOMO STUDIOs most prominent projects include:Curved House, Balearic Islands, IB, SpainPatio House, Balearic Islands, IB, SpainSTRNGNSFrame House, Balearic Islands, IB, SpainSes Menorquines, Es Mercadal, Spain The following statistics helped NOMO STUDIO achieve 30th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 25 29. SCT Estudio de Arquitectura SCT ESTUDIO DE ARQUITECTURASCT Estudio de Arquitectura was founded in 1996 by ngel Snchez-Cantalejo and Vicente Toms. After 25 years we have had the opportunity to work with many different projects, from single family homes, residential buildings, boutique hotels, urban and resort hotels, healthcare buildings, a ferry terminal, an art museum and institutional buildings. In SCT Estudio de Arquitectura we create architecture with local inspiration to build contemporary global architecture.We feel like an architectural design is a process. And, for every design, there is a theoretical introduction and a romantic idea. Theres always a reality: what the terrain is like, where the site is located, its orientation, what the views are, what the landscape is like, the vegetation, the cultural context, etc.; and then theres the idea you imagine for that reality: forms, materials, spaces, etc.Some of SCT ESTUDIO DE ARQUITECTURAs most prominent projects include:CASA LAMA, Santa Ponsa, SpainCENTRE DE SALUT PALMANOVA, Palma Nova, SpainCENTRE DE SALUT VILA, Balearic Islands, IB, SpainVILLA ELEVEN, Palma, SpainBARTOLOME ROSSELLO, Palma, Spain The following statistics helped SCT ESTUDIO DE ARQUITECTURA achieve 29th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Finalist 2 Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 41 28. Moneo Brock JORGE TABOADAMoneo Brock is an international architectural, planning and design firm of versatile professionals committed to the identification and implementation of sustainable solutions, with great faith in the promise of good design.As we begin our work we carefully consider each projects urban and natural context. Projects are thereafter developed with a clear sense of place and purpose. Finally, construction details are always rigorously controlled in order to be in concordance with the projects fundamental concept.We are sensitive to the synergies that emerge in collaborative processes, viewing teamwork as fundamental to the creation of great work. We see each job as an opportunity to create a unique structure that can transform a part of the world, no matter the scale.Some of Moneo Brocks most prominent projects include:Plaza de la Villa, Sencelles, SpainParish Church in Pueblo Serena, Monterrey, Monterrey, MexicoColumbia University Northwest Corner Building, New York City, New YorkCasa Velzquez, Santo Domingo, Dominican RepublicCasa TEC 205, Monterrey, Mexico The following statistics helped Moneo Brock achieve 28th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Winner 1 A+Awards Finalist 3 Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 11 27. Mano de Santo Mano de SantoArchitecture team based in Valencia and directed by the architects Ana Gil, Francesc de Paula Garcia y Francisco Miravete, we work developing projects, creating spaces, and product design. Each project is the result of a continuous process of research, compromises, in search of the right meaning. This process balances different factors including crativity, knowledge, technology, tradition, reason and emotion.Some of Mano de Santos most prominent projects include:Ermita House, Godella, SpainDetached house CASA FORMENT, Valencia, SpainDetached house CASA KLAMAR, Valencia, SpainPunta de Mar, Alicante, SpainBENLLIURE HOUSE, Valencia, Spain The following statistics helped Mano de Santo achieve 27th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 6 Total Projects 21 26. gon gongon is an architecture office headed by Gonzalo Pardo. Its practice focuses on the research and development of multi-scale projects whose common denominator is a ludic, experimental, critical, and optimistic point of view of contemporaneity. Its interests focus on the creative processes of architectural design and construction, but also on the role that mediation and communication play in architecture as fundamental vehicles for transforming the world into a more sustainable, dignified, and free place.Some of gons most prominent projects include:StoRED home, Madrid, SpainG house, Madrid, Spainsequencehouse, Madrid, SpainM.R HOUSE, Madrid, Spaindozen doors, Madrid, Spain The following statistics helped gon achieve 26th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 17 25. Zooco Estudio Zooco EstudioZooco is an architecture studio founded in 2009. The studio covers a wide spectrum of design, from large-scale building to furniture design. The application of solutions adapted to the client and their needs, and the use of a timeless language, free of noise and artifice, are the hallmarks of a studio in permanent search for new challenges.In a world as changing and fleeting as the current one, we look for architectural and spatial solutions that stand the test of time, that endure through the constant irruption of trends and fashions, phenomena that cause the immediate expiration of most creative proposals. One of our main objectives is to present design as an added value, profitable to achieve the commercial success of a business.Some of Zooco Estudios most prominent projects include:MODULOR, Madrid, SpainPERMETRO, Madrid, SpainHOTEL AZUL, Cantabria, Cantabria, SpainJHouse, Madrid, SpainM4: House looking at the forest, Madrid, Spain The following statistics helped Zooco Estudio achieve 25th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 23 24. Nan Arquitectos Nan ArquitectosArchitects in Pontevedra Galicia Spain. Their work is mostly centered around residential and commercial architecture.Some of Nan Arquitectos most prominent projects include:Vivienda en Villagarca, Vilagarca de Arousa, SpainClinica dental Dr. Pablo Sieiro, Cangas, SpainIconweb, Pontevedra, SpainNan architects Office, Pontevedra, SpainCentro Sana Sana pilates, O Porrio, Spain The following statistics helped Nan Arquitectos achieve 24th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 28 23. mari castell, architecture mari castell, architectureThe studio began its course in February 2002 with the first public and private initiative projects in Formentera. The connection, the respect and the commitment with the culture, the landscape and the territory of the minor of the Pitisas islands was determining in the professional and personal orientation chosen.To address larger-scale projects or to expand the geographical limits of the actions in a timely manner, decentralization has been chosen through external collaborations with other studies and professionals with similar values. Formentera historically has opted for a dispersed occupation model of very low density, and in this context the isolated single-family dwelling has been the most common program to be solved.Some of mari castell, architectures most prominent projects include:Bosc den Pep Ferrer, Balearic Islands, PM, SpainEs Pou, Balearic Islands, IB, SpainCasa 88, Balearic Islands, PM, SpainHome Office in Formentera island, Balearic Islands, PM, SpainCan Manuel den Corda, Balearic Islands, PM, Spain The following statistics helped mari castell, architecture achieve 23rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 6 Total Projects 9 22. luis vidal + architects (LVA) luis vidal + architects (LVA)Luis Vidal founded luis vidal + architects (LVA) in 2004.LVA is a creative platform that offers responsible and quality designs in response to the urban and social challenges of today: (urban planning, buildings and industrial design).In a short period of time, LVA has developed a consistent trajectory expressed in more than 80 projects, and the studio is internationally recognized for its expertise in airport and hospital design, having become one of the leading and most innovative practices committed to the search for functional and flexible design.The philosophy of LVA relies on improving quality of life through design, focusing on the user as the starting point and main priority in all their projects. Regardless of the scale, the all projects in the studios portfolio are born with the same DNA that defines LVA: its social, economic and environmental commitment.Some of luis vidal + architects (LVA)s most prominent projects include:Castellana 77, Madrid, SpainBoston Logan International Airport Terminal E, Boston, MassachusettsTerminal 2 -the Queens terminal- Heathrow Airport, London, United KingdomCentro Botn, Santander, SpainCommunity Center + CESFAM Matta Sur, Santiago, Chile The following statistics helped luis vidal + architects (LVA) achieve 22nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Finalist 3 Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 7 21. Egue y Seta Egue y SetaA team with a sharp eye and big ears! Architects and engineers along with graphic, industrial and of course, interior designers, we all design mainly with our ears!At EGUE Y SETA we approach every project with the certainty that clients do know what they need, like and consider aesthetically pleasing. They have helped us become, one project at a time, listening experts! Tell us about your project or how youd like to live!Some of Egue y Setas most prominent projects include:Gindus 16, 16, Calle Fernando el Santo, Madrid, SpainFrankfurt Station, 35, Carrer de la Creu Coberta, Barcelona, SpainHouse Benicassim, Valencia, SpainUrban beach home, SpainPoblenou ein 3 acts, Barcelona, Spain The following statistics helped Egue y Seta achieve 21st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 6 Total Projects 40 20. 05 AM Arquitectura 05 AM ArquitecturaOur practice and professional expertise is based on the realisation of projects, interiors and landscapes architecture. Our work is always a result of a dialogue, trying to understand and to shape the needs and wishes of our clients, applying our self-judgment to reach coherent results that express clearly the quality of spaces, lights and materials. Our aim is to adapt ourselves and overcome any previous constraints to make the most out of each of our project, designing comfortable and quality spaces and go beyond clients expectations.We have carried out projects both for public administration, public competitions and private commissions, having a vast experience in the last one, either in interior renovations or new constructions.Some of 05 AM Arquitecturas most prominent projects include:Maison colombages with 4 alcoves, Saint-Maur-des-Fosss, FranceHOUSE IN FRONT OF A STREAM IN CASS DE LA SELVA, Cass de la Selva, SpainHealth Center in Sant Vicen de Castellet, Sant Vicen de Castellet, SpainHouse with a space for the exhibition of contemporary art, Valldoreix, SpainHouse in Sa Riera, Girona, CT, Spain The following statistics helped 05 AM Arquitectura achieve 20th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 11 19. Dom Arquitectura Jordi AngueraWe understand each project as a different challenge, we face trying to innovate, experiment and learn from each one. We especially like the relationship with their environment, urban or natural. Integrate it into the site, flow with your feelings, and perceptions of our intense look on the nature of the place, gives us the basis to define each project.We enjoy architecture as if it were a game. It involves the management of light, shape, materials and their creative process. The strong finish is what makes us happy and so we work hard every day.Some of Dom Arquitecturas most prominent projects include:Stand Sauleda, Stuttgart, GermanyMountain Guest House, Barcelona, SpainRehabilitation in la Cerdanya, La Cerdanya, CT, SpainWood Studio House, Sant Cugat del Valls, SpainLes Algues Chill & Drinks, Roses, Spain The following statistics helped Dom Arquitectura achieve 19th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 18 18. b720 Fermn Vzquez Arquitectos Adri Goulab720 Fermn Vzquez Arquitectos is, first and foremost, a team. Founded in 1997 by Fermn Vzquez and Ana Bassat, b720 is a multicultural, multilingual architecture firm employing over 40 professionals of different nationalities. The team operates from its offices in Madrid and Barcelona and has worked in more than 85 projects, in 12 contries over the last 25 years.The studio produces contemporary architecture with a commitment to the responsible use of natural resources. The output of b720 is based on solid design and strict control of budgets and deadlines. Team members, project managers, partners, and consultants work closely on each project, as part of a process in which the studio is involved from the initial concept stage all the way to its final implementation.Some of b720 Fermn Vzquez Arquitectos most prominent projects include:Polaris North Offices, Madrid, SpainKNEM Offices, Barcelona, SpainLHospitalet Housing, LHospitalet de Llobregat, SpainIndra Corporate Building, Barcelona, SpainGran Casino Costa Brava, Lloret de Mar, Spain The following statistics helped b720 Fermn Vzquez Arquitectos achieve 18th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Winner 2 Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 15 17. Ral Snchez Architects Ral Snchez ArchitectsRAS arquitectura is an architecture and design practice based in Barcelona, founded by Ral Snchez. The firm develops a professional activity which escapes specialization in order to cover all types of work and projects related to architecture, urbanism and design, as well as resources, ideas and techniques management. Regardless of the type, scale, location or budget, every new work is a new challenge.Some of Ral Snchez Architects most prominent projects include:Apartment Tibbaut, Barcelona, SpainHouse 1016, Castelldefels, SpainTamarit Apartment, Barcelona, SpainCorsega Apartment, Barcelona, SpainDuplex Tibbaut, Barcelona, Spain The following statistics helped Ral Snchez Architects achieve 17th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 8 Total Projects 10 16. SCOB Architecture & Landscape Adri GoulaSergi Carulla and Oscar Blasco are both architects and landscape architects who trained in Barcelona. In 2005 they founded SCOB architecture and landscape studio, where they have been developing projects that combine both disciplines. They are professors of the Master in Landscape Architecture and the Bachelors Degree in Landscaping of the ETSAB, at Universidad Politcnica de Catalua (UPC).Their work has been recognized through the years by winning several prestigious international awards and competitions. In 2020, they have won the LILA Award by Landezine, and the Jury & Popular Choice awards by ARCHITIZER, all of them for their landscape architecture project Terra Dominicata Hotel & Winery.Some of SCOB Architecture & Landscapes most prominent projects include:Landscape architecture for Terra Dominicata Hotel & winery, Tarragona, SpainOneOcean Marina Port Vell, Barcelona, SpainCasa Pich i Pon. LOOM Plaza Catalunya, Barcelona, SpainClimatic Islands, public spaces at Barcelonas Old Port, Barcelona, SpainPort Museum, Barcelona, Spain The following statistics helped SCOB Architecture & Landscape achieve 16th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Winner 4 Featured Projects 6 Total Projects 13 15. OHLAB / oliver hernaiz architecture lab OHLAB / oliver hernaiz architecture labPaloma Hernaiz and Jaime Oliver direct OHLAB, an office devoted to urban analysis and cultural research of contemporary society through design, architectural practice and urban strategy. Based in Palma de Mallorca, the team consists of 20 architecture, interior design and engineering professionals. OHLAB is currently working on different hotel, residential and commercial projects in Spain and abroad.Some of OHLAB / oliver hernaiz architecture labs most prominent projects include:CONCEPT STORE IN MIAMI, Miami, FloridaCAN BORDOY, Palma, SpainMM HOUSE, Palma, SpainCASA PALERM, Lloret de Vistalegre, SpainPaseo Mallorca 15, Palma, Spain The following statistics helped OHLAB / oliver hernaiz architecture lab achieve 15th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Finalist 3 Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 10 14. Roman Izquierdo Bouldstridge Roman Izquierdo BouldstridgeWe are an architectural studio that works in very diverse fields of design, from urban planning and architecture to interior design and objects. We combine professional practice with artistic experimentation and research.We design each project based on the daily experience of people, seeking a balance between functionality, relationship with environment and beauty of spaces created to be lived in a natural way. We keep a close dialogue with our clients through the design process, deeply understanding their needs and expectations, applying innovative tailored solutions and paying special attention to detail.Some of Roman Izquierdo Bouldstridges most prominent projects include:Multidisciplinary design office, Barcelona, SpainLes Corts Apartment, Barcelona, SpainSant Antoni Lofts, Barcelona, SpainColvin Florist, Barcelona, SpainCosta Brava House, Girona, CT, Spain The following statistics helped Roman Izquierdo Bouldstridge achieve 14th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 9 Total Projects 13 13. Pepe Gascn Arquitectura Pepe Gascn ArquitecturaPepe Gascn Architecture is an architectural studio with an extensive experience and professional background. Its work has been recognized through publications and awards, national and international. The study has a multidisciplinary team where reigns the creative and innovative spirit. It also has external collaboration of the best experts in the most varied disciplines.We develop projects of architecture, interior design and urban space design, covering all the stages of the construction process: from the project, its management, as well as its subsequent realization. Through an integral control of the construction process, we are able to manage projects from initial conception to final realization, always in the planned budget and timing. We develop each project with a great intensity, rigor and professionalism, trying to do a sober and essential architecture, provided with innovative solutions and timeless character.Some of Pepe Gascn Arquitecturas most prominent projects include:Barbacoa House, Barcelona, SpainJuncal & Rodney home, Begur, SpainAttic Apartment, Barcelona, SpainToni HouseSant Miquel Special Education School, Sant Feliu de Llobregat, Spain The following statistics helped Pepe Gascn Arquitectura achieve 13th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 24 12. Barozzi / Veiga Barozzi / VeigaBarozzi / Veiga is an architectural office devoted to architecture and urbanism, that was founded in 2004 in Barcelona by Fabrizio Barozzi and Alberto Veiga. The office has won numerous prizes in national and international competitions among them, the Rehabilitacin of the Palacio de Santa Clara in beda, the Auditorioum of guilas, the Headquarter of the D.O. Ribera del Duero in Roa, the Philharmonic Hall in Szczecin, the Muse de Beaux-arts in Lausanne, the extension of the Bndner Kunstmuseum in Chur, the School of Music in Brunico and the Tanzhaus in Zrich.Some of Barozzi / Veigas most prominent projects include:Auditorium and Congress Center, guilas, SpainMusic School, Bruneck, ItalyMuse Cantonal des Beaux-Arts de Lausanne, Lausanne, SwitzerlandTanzhaus Zurich, Zrich, SwitzerlandHeadquarters Ribera del Duero, Burgos, Spain The following statistics helped Barozzi / Veiga achieve 12th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 7 11. RUBN MUEDRA ESTUDIO DE ARQUITECTURA RUBN MUEDRA ESTUDIO DE ARQUITECTURARubn Muedra founded RUBN MUEDRA ESTUDIO DE ARQUITECTURA in 2010, with the conviction that architecture is the way to provide well-being to people. Always solving technical and functional needs through architecture, but without renouncing beauty through innovation, insinuation or provocation. And living in continuous learning, always close to known or previously explored limits.Since the formation of the Studio, the work has always been oriented towards the pursuit of excellence in each project, creating architecture of the highest quality and precision. Each project that the Studio initiates is a new challenge and in all of them, we try to achieve complete customer satisfaction.Some of RUBN MUEDRA ESTUDIO DE ARQUITECTURAs most prominent projects include:ALPHA HOUSE, Valencia, SpainDUNE HOUSE, Valencian Community, SpainCONCRETE HOUSE, Valencia, SpainBRISE SOLEIL HOUSE, Valencia, SpainMURVIEDRO SILK HOUSE, Valencia, Spain The following statistics helped RUBN MUEDRA ESTUDIO DE ARQUITECTURA achieve 11th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 9 Total Projects 22 10. IDOM IDOMIDOM is a leading multidisciplinary group that provides engineering, architecture and consulting services around the world.Some of IDOMs most prominent projects include:San Mams, Bilbao, Spain58 Public Housing Torresolo, Leioa, SpainSalburua Civic Center, Vitoria-Gasteiz, SpainThe Masterplan of the University of Gastronomic, Tourism and Environmental SciencesLima Convention Centre (LCC) , Lima District, Peru The following statistics helped IDOM achieve 10th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Finalist 4 Featured Projects 9 Total Projects 16 9. AGi architects AGi architectsThe international design firm AGi architects was founded by architects Joaqun Prez-Goicoechea and Nasser B. Abulhasan. With a noticeable international character and a multidisciplinary focus, AGi architects offers a professional service emphasizing quality, creativity and exclusive design. AGi has a vision to create environments that create a lasting value for clients through distinctive and imaginative solutions. At present, the studio has offices in Kuwait and Madrid, with a team comprised of more than 50 professionals.The studios architecture is based on four founding pillars: innovation, an inherent life component, ecological and social interventions and research. AGi architects provides comprehensive services in architecture, interior design and urban planning.Some of AGi architects most prominent projects include:Mission Possible The UN Opportunity Pavilion, Dubai, United Arab EmiratesTrazas de Pontevedra, Pontevedra, SpainLa Ascension del Senor Church, Sevilla, SpainAli Mohammed T. Al-Ghanim Clinic, KuwaitStar House, Ahmadi, Kuwait The following statistics helped AGi architects achieve 9th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Winner 1 A+Awards Finalist 2 Featured Projects 9 Total Projects 28 8. Mateo Arquitectura Mateo ArquitecturaMateo Arquitectura is an architectural practice led by Josep Llus Mateo. It is globally active and tries to connect intelligence and artistic ambition with pragmatism and objectivity.Some of Mateo Arquitecturas most prominent projects include:Film Theatre of Catalonia, Carrer dEspalter, Barcelona, SpainThe FactoryBetween Sky and Earth: Prague National Gallery Entrance Hall 2004-2012, Prague, Czech RepublicRemodelling of El Ninot Market in Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainPGGM Headquarters, Zeist, Netherlands The following statistics helped Mateo Arquitectura achieve 8th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 10 Total Projects 24 7. CrystalZoo CrystalZooCystalZoo arises from the idea of a studio as a discussion forum. It is immersed continuously in a learning process and research of new techniques, because the intervention in a metropolitan scale needs mutable plans able to adapt themselves to the agents involved in each treatment, time or environment and to the specific needs of each project as well. We are experts in low cost architecture and design.The concept of CrystalZoo Team emerges from the idea of the architectural studio as a heterogeneous and multidisciplinary centre. Each member comes from a different cultural and professional field and possesses special characteristics, which are combined to contribute to the enrichment of the group as collective.Some of CrystalZoos most prominent projects include:Coworking LAB Nuca, Alacant, SpainExpansion of Government Offices, Alicante, SpainVELDROMO LUIS NAVARRO AMORS, Novelda, SpainCasal de la Juventud de Novelda, Novelda, SpainThe Tossal Social Center, Alicante, Spain The following statistics helped CrystalZoo achieve 7th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Winner 4 Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 8 6. Picharchitects/Pich-Aguilera Picharchitects/Pich-AguileraThe respect for the environment as a value that has to be managed became a social consensus. Architecture has to search for new alternatives that propose a more stimulating relation with nature and an honest application of natural resources. This can give us objective guide lines to approach planning and construction technology from a really contemporary point of view. To approach the project from a knowledge of the building mechanisms and planning.The dialogue between multidisciplinary teams during the development of the project. The industrialization of the construction process as a way of increasing quality and comfort and of reducing costs. New architectural forms as a result of the aspiration of the environment and not of an individual expression.Some of Picharchitects/Pich-Aguileras most prominent projects include:University Hospital Sant Joan, Reus, SpainTelefonica Moviles Building, Ciudad Real, SpainEXPERIMENTAL CENTER FOR THE AUDIOVISUAL PRODUCTION MAGICAL . TECHNOLOGICAL SCIENTIFIC PARK., Lleida, SpainMagical Science and Technology Park, Lleida, SpainPOMARET HOUSES, Barcelona, Spain The following statistics helped Picharchitects/Pich-Aguilera achieve 6th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 10 Total Projects 22 5. selgascano Iwan Baanselgascano was established in Madrid in 1998. It is a small atelier and intends to remain so. They have worked with a wide variety of projects keeping always nature at the core of the program. Its work is focused on research into the construction process, which is treated as an ongoing process of `listening to the largest possible number of elements involved, from manufacture to installation. Selgascano avoids the use of games and mechanisms that lead to disciplinary issues and strives to seek beauty that is comprehensible to any human being.They tend not to give lectures or classes in order to focus intensely on their projects, although they were involved with the MIT (2013-14) in a short-term extension of the studios main concern: an intense search for new outlets for nature using artificial means, applying technologies borrowed from other fields that are rarely mixed with architecture.Some of selgascanos most prominent projects include:El B, Cartagena, SpainPavilion Martell, Cognac, FranceBrugge Pavilion, Bruges, BelgiumPlasencia Auditorium & Congress Centre, Plasencia, SpainDesign District Canteen, London, United Kingdom The following statistics helped selgascano achieve 5th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 9 Total Projects 9 4. arnau estudi darquitectura arnau estudi d'arquitecturaAsk on the spot, listen to the customer, follow your gut. To believe in the magical power of the first idea, in the wisdom of innocence; make sincere architecture. Love the detail of a texture on a facade and the touch of the backrest on a chair. Clinging to the beauty of a random patch of fresh grass and the warmth of a weather-beaten wooden can; to all that is true. Load the haystack, the threshing floor and the seat into the rucksack.Some of arnau estudi darquitecturas most prominent projects include:RETINA HOUSE, Santa Pau, SpainCASA MOSSEGADA / BITTEN HOUSE, Sant Feliu de Pallerols, SpainESPAI VERTICAL / VERTICAL SPACE, Olot, SpainCASERNA / QUARTER, Bas, SpainCARRERAS FARMHOUSE BARN, Girona, Spain The following statistics helped arnau estudi d'arquitectura achieve 4th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 12 Total Projects 14 3. BATON BATONBATON emerged in the 1990s as an architecture studio with a clear goal: to develop meticulous architecture projects and promote housing with a strong commitment to design and the impeccable quality of the final result. Since then, there has been ongoing research into materials and new solutions that are incorporated into projects. The team of professionals at BATON makes a continuous effort to improve the solutions they offer to their clients to achieve more sustainable, beautiful, and timeless homes.Before reaching 25 years of history, BATON has left its mark on more than 500 new construction and renovation projects (homes, hotels, offices, restaurants) in Spain and abroad, and its work has been recognized in specialized press in over 80 countries.BATON offers, along with its architecture, interior design, and construction services, decoration, furnishing, and landscaping services, adding value, coherence, and ease to the process.Some of BATONs most prominent projects include:PORTABLE HOME APH80, Madrid, SpainCOMPREHENSIVE RENOVATION IN ALCAL, Madrid, SpainCOUNTRY HOUSE IN EXTREMADURA, EX, SpainVALLADOLID PROJECT, Madrid, SpainBATON MAUSOLEUM, Madrid, Spain The following statistics helped BATON achieve 3rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: A+Awards Winner 4 Featured Projects 11 Total Projects 39 2. Nook Architects Nook ArchitectsFrom Barcelona, Joan G Corts and Rubn F Berenguer direct Nook Architects, paying special attention to the most relevant aspects for the user, without losing sight of the balance between context, functionality and materiality. Its premise is to achieve timeless and comfortable spaces that allow the user to modify them to adapt them to their needs over time.Some of Nook Architects most prominent projects include:THE BOOKCASE, Barcelona, SpainAUGUST, Barcelona, SpainMARIA & CUB, Barcelona, SpainCASA JES, Barcelona, SpainZAMNESS, Barcelona, SpainFeatured image: BEATES, Barcelona, Spain The following statistics helped Nook Architects achieve 2nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 19 Total Projects 34 1. Fran Silvestre Arquitectos Fran Silvestre ArquitectosThe project approach arises from a double commitment: the will to give a technical response to a specific context (needs program, budget, regulations, environment) and the desire to seek beauty through the built work. This process pursues the satisfaction, understood in its most complete sense, of all those who actively participate in development. Especially customers and users, but also collaborators, builders and designers.Another characteristic of the process is continuity. Continuity with an environment that we must respect, spatial continuity, the use of few materials, the integration of facilities, lighting These are common factors in the work carried out. And also the search for continuity in time, valuing the architecture that is capable of going through it without becoming obsolete.The dialogue is always present, since the work becomes part of the identity of those who inhabit it.Some of Fran Silvestre Arquitectos most prominent projects include:House on Cliffside, SpainHouse between the pine forest, Paterna, SpainHofmann House, Valencia, SpainBreeze House, Castelln de la Plana, SpainCasa Balint, Btera, Spain The following statistics helped Fran Silvestre Arquitectos achieve 1st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Spain: Featured Projects 46 Total Projects 62 Why Should I Trust Architizers Ranking?With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the worlds largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the worlds best architecture each year.Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlightedA Guide to Project AwardsThe blue + badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizers Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a projects likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:Project completed within the last 3 yearsA well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphsArchitectural designwith a high level of both functional and aesthetic valueHigh quality, in focus photographsAt least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the buildingInclusion of architectural drawings and renderingsInclusion of construction photographsThere are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizers Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.Were constantly look for the worlds best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please dont hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.The post 30 Best Architecture and Design Firms in Spain appeared first on Journal.

Steel Seed is the upcoming sci-fi odyssey from Rome-based studio Storm in a Teacup alongside publishers ESDigital Games. Telling the story of Zoe, a human consciousness embedded into a robotic body, players will navigate parkour-style through a compellingly designed industrial, planet-sized facility, battling all manner of artificial intelligence on the quest to survive. Launching April 22nd, herere twelve in-game features to look forward to.Post-cataclysmic worldA more vivid descriptor than commonplace post-apocalypses, in Steel Seed youll navigate through the carcass of a planet-sized mega-factory, a world developers Storm in a Teacup describe as post-cataclysmic. See, a catastrophic event has left humanity on the brink of distinction, and with Earth uninhabitable machines sought control of the last remnants of humanitys survival. Their AI-dominated underground facility is vast, haunting, and evocative, with towering industrial landscapes and eerie biodomes the venues for a narrative said to explore what it means to be human.Drone companion Kobys flight modeYou awaken as Zoe, a human survivor within a robotic body. With no prior memory, Zoes journey becomes one of self-discovery (plus the overarching goal to find her father) but throughout her mission shes accompanied by Koby, a prototype drone who can assist her in numerous ways. By entering Kobys flight mode, Zoe can analyse surroundings, scan for paths and throughways, and interact with the environment such as flicking out-of-reach switches and engaging with mechanisms.Stealth gameplaySteel Seed is a stealth-action adventure, with regular stealth staples like shadows, distractions, and the environment key to successfully sneaking around. Numerous approaches to stealth can be adopted too, with the game not imposing one specific way to tackle an area stalked by numerous enemies. If you decide not to engage, you can crouch-walk Zoe through patches of holographic long grass. However, silent takedowns are, of course, present, with flashy kills possible from above, behind, and below. Stealth gameplay here resembles more of a sandbox style, with Storm in a Teacup founder and Steel Seed game director Carlo Ivo Alimo Bianchi bringing in expertise gleaned from formerly working on the Hitman series.Using Koby for stealthObserving enemy patrol patterns is a tried and tested method for a stealthy approach, and whilst weve already touched on Kobys ability to scan the environment its worth repeating here that whilst assessing the lay of the land ahead Koby can add tags to multiple targets thatre visible to both the drone and Zoe. Knowing when and where your enemies will walk gives rise to silent takedowns or complete evasion. That holographic grass we mentioned: Koby can learn skills such as the ability to drop patches of said digital grass for areas that dont have enough cover.Parkour and platformingIn this sprawling subterranean facility parkour and 3D platforming are the principal means in which Zoe can get about. So, leaping over gaps, grabbing handholds, balancing over ledges, wall running, leaping to yet more handholds all adorned with typical yellow paint is the name of the game, and whilst all these classic parkour manoeuvres arent strictly unique to Steel Seed its this machine-built world a facility designed for machines, not humans which will provide unusual hazards and layouts, distinct interest in 3D platforming.Dynamic combatAs per its Steam page, in Steel Seed youll face off against various enemy types and challenging bosses, each with unique abilities. Now, we havent seen much in the way of enemy variety in official gameplay footage shared thus far, but during an interview with publisher ESDigital Games brand manager Ilia Svanidze she spoke of Zoe encountering turrets, dual knife wielding Stalkers, and hulking Brutes in addition to weaker, simpler patrolling robots. When cover is blown and fighting becomes inevitable, Zoe has access to light and heavy attacks which utilise her glow-in-the-dark neon blade. Enemy blows are extremely powerful, so dodging also proves integral the flow of combat.Perfect dodgeIf players can dodge an enemy attack at the precise time, then theyll execute a Perfect Dodge which will allow Zoe to unleash a special attack which deals an immense amount of damage. Perfect dodges emit a vibrant pulse of pixelated light, with the example shown via official gameplay of Zoe then barrel-rolling over the top of a lurching enemy, her neon blade scything through their servos like a hot knife through butter. Fingers crossed therere heaps of special attack animations as perfect dodging seems like the most satisfactory method of wiping out Zoes enemies.Using Koby in combatDrone companion Koby isnt just useful for scanning the environment. No, his front-mounted cannon makes him a useful sidekick during battle too. His firepower can be aimed squarely at an enemys weak points which provides a momentary stun in addition to dealing damage. Kobys ranged attack capabilities extend to environmental objects too, in particular explosive barrels which can be shot from afar to blast multiple enemies to scrap.Upgradeable abilitiesDuring battle, Zoe and Koby will gain XP which can be ploughed straight into skill trees. Zoe possesses two skill trees whilst Koby has one and encompassing all three is a vast selection of passive abilities and primary skills and itll be up to players how they distribute their XP. Its been stated that skill trees cannot be completed during a single playthrough, so players will need to consider which abilities they wish to unlock. In total there are forty skills available, with some examples being damage bonuses, cannon unlocks for Koby, or abilities to scan further into the environment.Notable ability hackingOne ability that has been prominently highlighted during official gameplay is the ability for Koby to hack enemies, so during one of Zoes silent takedowns instead of slicing her robot enemy in half Koby will visually scan the enemies head to presumably reprogram them to fight alongside the pair. Its only a temporary switching of allegiance for the robot, but as demonstrated in gameplay this hacking ability will prove especially fruitful during encounters where Zoe is overwhelmed. The hacked robot will kill their allies, but furthermore provide a useful distraction for Koby to unleash his ranged firepower, or for Zoe to escape the situation entirely.Secrets and hidden areasSteel Seed is not an open world. Instead, missions are linear in design but each biome harbours numerous secrets, hidden areas, and multiple paths through. Itll be down to Zoe and Koby to identify these secret areas, with collectibles the reward for scouring levels clean. These collectibles include audio logs and documents, items which will flesh out the game world to provide backstory on how the tragic events of humanitys capitulation occurred. Locating hidden areas will be integral to understanding Steel Seeds story to the fullest.Thought-provoking sci-fi narrativeAnd to that end, Steel Seed is promising a thought-provoking sci-fi narrative which will have players considering the significance of humanity, of the perils of technology, of trust, resilience, control, and despair. This isnt simply going to be a tale of survival but a meaningful journey whereby a deep and compelling narrative propels players through.

Theres life in the old dog yet. Whilst the aging PlayStation 4 misses out on the bulk of new releases nowadays, theres still a wealth of fantastic games releasing on Sonys now twelve-year-old system. Herere fifteen games coming in 2025 to PS4 that are worthy of your time.Fatal Fury: City of the WolvesHotly anticipated sequel to Garou: Mark of the Wolves a fighting game many regard as amongst the finest Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves has a steep hill to climb if the series is to re-establish itself alongside the pantheon of all-timers. Gracefully, City of the Wolves revitalises the fighting techniques of its predecessors whilst injecting novel mechanics and its own eye-catching art style to modernise the experience for players new and old.MotoGP 25New modes, from dedicated motard, flat track, and minibike racing to a never-seen-before casual arcade experience, bring plenty of novel ways to ride in MotoGP 25, but Milestones latest superbike sim aims to provide untold levels of authenticity from an area you might not expect. This year, sound design has been completely overhauled via on-track audio captured first-hand from the exhausts and tyre squeals of official bikes. MotoGP 25 has potential to be the long-standing series best entry in years.Onimusha 2: Samurais DestinyRemaster of the 2002 PS2 classic, Onimusha 2: Samurais Destiny is gifting new opportunities to relive the originals intense swordplay and dramatic revenge story with hi-res graphics and improved controls. Additional language support, new gallery modes, a refreshed soundtrack, intense Hell mode difficulty, and a very welcome quality of life contributing auto save feature round out this enrapturing odyssey through medieval Japan.Elden Ring NightreignCo-op games are resurging in 2025, with this standalone spin-off set within the Elden Ring universe a harrowing experience created specifically for a troupe of up to three of players to venture deep within the grim locale of Limveld together promises to be a standout. In true FromSoft fashion, surviving a three-day cycle in Elden Ring Nightreign will be anything but a cakewalk. Teams will encounter highly skilled, soul-crushingly tough opponents during each run. However, collectible relics will, with any luck, make subsequent runs more manageable.Tony Hawks Pro Skater 3+4The industrys worst kept secret officially announced on March 4th, and whilst many shared trepidation that Tony Hawks Pro Skater 4 will eschew its open-ended career mode skating for, what new dev team Iron Galaxy proclaim, as a return to 1 to 3s epic two-minute format, theres no denying Tony Hawks Pro Skater 3+4 is a welcome package. Revitalised parks, a handful a new courses, plus a quartet of new skaters (not including Doom Slayer) ensure Tony Hawks latest round of remakes are destined to do well.Ninja Gaiden: RageboundIf youre on the fence about Ninja Gaidens upcoming 2D side scroller, just know that it is a modern reimagining of the classic platformer, with all the mechanical depth of a modern adventure uniting with visual 8-bit pazazz. Ragebound could be the platforming sleeper hit of the year.Little Nightmares IIIThe pint-sized dread fest is returning, only, switching things up for Little Nightmares III is the introduction of co-operative gameplay, either couch, online, or via AI. Low and Alone, our poor children stuck inside a horrifying realm known as The Maw, must combine their unique skills and gadgets to overcome a breadth of tricky environmental puzzles all whilst evading the clutches of a horde of evil monsters.Shinobi: Art of VengeanceSpeaking of platforming sleeper hits ala Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, another iconic side-scroller is getting the modern treatment in Shinobi: Art of Vengeance, and this one is coming directly from the team who made Streets of Rage 4. A Supergiant Games-style hand-drawn art style belies what looks to be a super-precise platformer, although it remains to be seen if the team at Lizardcube have toned down the series historic difficulty. Either way, mastering the way of the Shinobi has never looked better.AbsolumOkay, the aforementioned Dotemu have a hand in this one too, but unlike their prior publishing exploits this is the teams first original IP, and it has all the hallmarks of an instant classic. Absolum is a roguelite, side-scrolling beat em up set within an original fantasy realm. Here, a likeable cast of brawlers, each with distinct fighting styles, rapid combo chains, and spellcasting power, traipse through levels harbouring multiple paths and unpredictable encounters, promising an enveloping experience with every run.Terminator 2D: No FateMore 2D action side scrolling, only this one an officially licensed recreation of iconic movie Terminator 2. Terminator 2D: No Fate oozes adrenaline fuelled arcade style via thrilling set pieces plucked straight out of the film, lovingly crafted here in stunning pixel art. In addition to playing through the movie as on-screen icons Sarah Conner and Arnold Schwarzeneggers T-800, players will also get to experience novel Future War missions as an adult John Connor, with futuristic pipe bombs and plasma cannons the weapons of choice as he leads the resistance on a battle against Skynets sentient machines.Dying Light: The BeastThis standalone Dying Light adventure set more than a decade after events of the series mainline titles reunites you with Kyle Crane protagonist of the first game before transporting you both to country resort Castor Woods. After years of inhumane imprisonment and experimentation, Crane is out for blood and, as luck would have it, hes now imbued with zombie DNA. This genetic modification grants him beast-like powers which players can use to rip shreds out of those who kept him in captivity for so long.Commandos: OriginsThe legendary real-time tactics forebearer is making a triumphant return in 2025, and this time well be exploring the elite covert-operation units beginnings in Commandos: Origins. Undertaking daring rescues, clandestine sabotage, and edge-of-seat raids are the squad led by poster boy for the series the Green Beret and therell be a range of audacious missions and pivotal moments to undertake, from the Arctic circle to past the Eastern front.Ys vs. Trails in the Sky: Alternative SagaYs vs. Trails in the Sky: Alternative Saga is coming West for the first time, the all-star clash between heroes from Falcoms legendary RPG series having originally released for the PlayStation Portable in Japan in 2010. This version features remastered graphics and 60 FPS support, couch and online multiplayer, English voice acting, and a wealth of wallpapers and soundtracks from Falcom titles of old. Finally, the cult favourite, fast-paced battler has a home outside of Japan.Mouse: P.I. for HireCombining 1930s animation with the thrill of explosive first person shooting, in Mouse: P.I. for Hire you assume command of Private Investigator Jack Pepper who becomes embroiled in a gritty underworld of crooks and mobsters, these hand-drawn characters chilling enough to commit murder, corruption, and blackmail. We can safely say weve never seen a game quite like this.The House of the Dead 2: RemakeOn-rails shooting masterclass The House of the Dead 2: Remake reimagines the classic arcade experience in high-definition graphics, with remastered music and optional co-operative play. The first House of the Dead remake had its issues, but heres hoping developer MegaPixel Studio have ploughed all their knowledge into this sequel as, on balance, House of the Dead 2 was always the superior title.

Honda is looking to the stars for its next hydrogen breakthrough.The automaker is teaming up with space tech companies Sierra Space and Tec-Masters to test its high-differential pressure water electrolysis system on the International Space Station. The test is part of Hondas vision to support life on the Moon and elsewhere in space using regenerative fuel cell technology that continuously produces hydrogen, oxygen, and electricity.Its another risky move from Honda, which is more bullish on hydrogen than most other automakers. Hydrogen-powered cars have historically faced a lot of hurdles, including fueling challenges and pricing pressures. But Honda is counting on hydrogen to help it decarbonize its vehicle fleet by 2040. And now it wants to tap into the most abundant element in the universe to power its push into space.Honda says it envisions its hydrogen-powered regenerative system as part of a human settlement on the lunar surface. But it also hopes that by stress testing the technology on the Moon, it can prove its utility on Earth.Its another risky move from Honda, which is more bullish on hydrogen than most other automakersHeres how Hondas system works: during the lunar day, the system will use electricity generated by solar panels capturing sunlight. The companys high-differential pressure water electrolysis system will then produce hydrogen and oxygen from water. When the Moon rotates away from the Sun, some of the oxygen will be used for astronauts, with the rest put toward generating electricity. The only byproduct of the electrolysis process is water, which is recycled back into the regenerative system, creating a closed-loop energy cycle.Honda plans on testing the process in the microgravity environment on the ISS. The company says it will work with NASA to transport the equipment on Sierra Spaces Dream Chaser spaceplane, with Tec-Masters as the ISS technology expert.Creating a reliable source of oxygen and electricity in space would help humans establish livable habitats off-Earth in an era when space travel seems more achievable than ever. While the science community has explored the use of electrolysis as a means to sustain life in the vacuum of space, it has found that low gravity environments will have some effect on the gas-evolving process. A study published in 2022 concluded that around 11 percent less oxygen was created through electrolysis in a lunar environment as compared to the gravity of Earth.See More:

China has responded to Donald Trumps new trade tariffs with its own charges on US goods. After Trump announced the imposition of an additional 34 percent charge on Chinese imports into the US, China has announced a levy at the same rate for US goods shipped to China. It has also barred 11 US companies from trading in the country, added 16 more to an export controls list, applied new restrictions to rare earth mineral exports, filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO), and started investigations into imports of American medical equipment.In a statement announcing the new tariff, Chinas finance ministry declared that the US tariff on Chinese goods seriously undermines Chinas legitimate rights and interests, and called it a typical unilateral bullying practice.Trump announced his latest levy on Chinese imports as part of new tariff rates that affect every country the US trades with, including a few uninhabited islands. It followed two separate 10 percent tariffs on China from earlier in the year, bringing the USs total tariff on Chinese goods to 54 percent. He also signed an executive order ending the de minimis exemption for packages valued below $800, which could be a death blow for Chinese retailers like Shein and Temu.China urges the United States to immediately cancel its unilateral tariff measures and resolve trade differences through consultation in an equal, respectful and mutually beneficial manner, the statement concludes. The Chinese levy will go into effect on April 10th, one day after the USs new tariff starts to apply. China has also imposed strict limits on the exports of some rare earth elements that are mined almost exclusively in China and used in electric vehicles, weapons, and other tech.Its also launching investigations into exports of X-ray tubes from America and India, amid allegations of dumping when exported goods are sold for less than their domestic price, damaging the local industry. If that sounds oddly specific, bear in mind that the US dominates the international medical device trade.The country has also barred 11 American businesses accused of military and technological cooperation with Taiwan from importing to, exporting from, or investing in China, adding them to its Unreliable Entity List. The new additions, mostly made up of drone and defense companies, include drone manufacturer Skydio, which started out making consumer drones but pivoted entirely to enterprise in 2023.A further 16 US companies have been placed under export controls, banning the export of dual-use items anything that can be used for both civilian and military purposes to those companies. The BBC reports that a further six companies have been prohibited from shipping their goods to China because of food safety concerns.Chinas Commerce Ministry also says that it has filed a new charge within the WTOs dispute settlement system, claiming that Trumps reciprocal tariffs violate WTO rules. China initially lodged a complaint with the WTO in early February after Trumps first 10 percent tariff, and updated it following the second round in March, but the WTO only describes the complaint as In consultations.

Remember Marathon? Its Destiny developer Bungies next game, and it looks like were about to finally see more of it.Marathon is a PvP-focused extraction shooter set on the mysterious planet of Tau Ceti IV. Players inhabit the bodies of Runners, cybernetic mercenaries who have been designed to survive the planets harsh environments, exploring the lost colony that once inhabited Tau Cetis surface.It has been some time since we saw or heard of Marathon. In October, Bungie released a lengthy development update video that shed light on Marathon's mechanics, but stressed how early in development the game was. Player character models were, at that point, still "coming together," while enemy models were still in an "early state."PlayNow, though, half a year later, it looks like Bungie is finally ready to reveal what its been working on. A tweet from the official Marathon account, below, revealed a typically cryptic image and accompanying garbled signal noise. As fans have noticed, theres ASCII art of footage from the debut Marathon trailer. Given this is Bungie were talking about, a developer known for its mysterious teasers, hidden clues, and Easter eggs, theres probably much more here to discover, and fans are already working to find out what it all means.Either way, it very much looks like its finally happening for Marathon after what has been a troubled development.Marathon was revealed in May 2023 as a reboot of the classic Bungie franchise, but with all its themes of "mysteries, eeriness, and psychological creepiness." But Bungie itself has suffered several controversies in recent years, headlined by the laying off of 220 staff members, meaning 17% of its workforce, in July 2024: a move even industry peers criticized.Further controversy came when a report released weeks after the 220 job losses alleging former Marathon director Chris Barrett was fired after an internal misconduct investigation at Bungie. Barrett subsequently sued Sony Interactive Entertainment and Bungie for more than $200 million.This all comes as Sony rethinks its focus on live-service games. Sony president Hiroki Totoki said in November 2023 the company was committed to launching just six of the 12 live service games it was working on by March 2026, in a shift in strategy that saw The Last of Us multiplayer game cancelled.While Arrowheads Helldivers 2 was a breakout hit, becoming the fastest-selling PlayStation Studios game of all time with 12 million copies sold in just 12 weeks, Sonys other live service games were either canceled or suffered disastrous launches.Indeed, Sonys Concord is one of the biggest video game disasters in PlayStation history, lasting just a couple of weeks before it was brought offline amid eye-wateringly low player numbers. Sony later decided to kill the game entirely and shut its developer.And earlier this year, Sony reportedly canceled two unannounced live service games, one a God of War title in development at Bluepoint, the other in the works at Days Gone developer Bend.Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.

When the Nintendo Switch 2s $450 USD price was announced it turned heads given this is a bigger sticker price then weve come to expect from Nintendo in the past. However, with the rise in production costs and other economic uncertainties like tariffs, analysts did predict the Switch 2 to cost around $400 USD at least.Maybe the bigger shock was around the cost of Switch 2 games, which not only hit the new $70 USD standard for new games but also go as high as $80 in the case of games like Mario Kart World. Add in the additional cost of the various accessories if you want the full Switch 2 experience and it all totals a hefty sum.But if you adjust the launch cost of previous Nintendo consoles for inflation, how does Switch 2 stack up? And how does the Switch 2 price also compare to other consoles? The results might surprise you... Nintendo Switch 2 Price Vs Previous Nintendo ConsolesNESThe NES was released in 1985 and was sold for $179 USD at launch. That sounds like a bargain these days, but if you adjust the cost for inflation it would set you back $523 USD in 2025. Woof!SNESNintendo followed it up in 1991 with the SNES, which at the time cost $199 USD. It was $20 dollars more back then but taking into account the additional inflation between the two launch years, it would cost $460 USD in 2025.Nintendo 64Nintendos big 3D revolution came when the Nintendo 64 was released in 1996, which came in at the same $199 price point as the SNES. However thats $400 USD in todays terms after adjustments for inflation.Nintendo GameCubeThe Nintendo GameCube, whose games will be available on the Switch 2 through the Nintendo Switch Onlines classic library, hit the shelves in 2001 for $199 or $359 USD in todays dollars.WiiNintendos bold next step after the GameCube was the motion-controlled Wii which went on to become a global phenomenon. In 2006, the Wii hit shelves at $249 USD or about $394 USD in 2025.Wii UNintendo wasnt as successful with its follow-up the Wii U. It was released in 2012 for $299 USD at launch or $415 USD in 2025, making it closer to the Switch 2s pricing.Nintendo Switch Nintendo found its groove again with the Nintendo Switch, which will go down as one of Nintendos most-successful consoles of all time. The system hit stores in 2017 nearly eight years ago and retailed for $299 USD, or $387 USD in todays dollars, so still cheaper than Switch 2 when it hits the shelves on June 5.So there you have it, the original NES is the most expensive console Nintendo has ever launched if you adjust prices for inflation. Does that make Switch 2's price any easier to swallow? Absolutely not.Credit: IGNBut what about the games?While the Switch 2s price was largely expected by analysts and other trend watchers, the real head-turner was Nintendos pricing on games, which will retail as high as $80 USD for Mario Kart World, while others like Donkey Kong Bananza are priced at $70 USD (or $65 digitally).Its difficult to see exactly how that compares to the earliest NES cartridges at launch because unlike today, prices back then varied pretty wildly from one game to the next. For example, in the early 90s an NES game could cost as much as $45 USD, or $130 USD in 2025, while some sold for as little as $34, or $98 USD after adjusting for inflation which is still more than what Mario Kart World would cost today. But many are convinced that the cost of games could increase further.It's no surprise the Switch 2 hits the higher end of Nintendo's pricing, beaten only by the NES and SNES. Real-world factors do seem to be a big cause of this price increase given that Nintendo announced a cheaper, region-locked Switch 2 for Japan, Nintendo's key domestic market, for 49,980 JPY or $340 USD.How Switch 2's Price Compares to Other ConsolesWe did a similar cost analysis when the price for the PS5 Pro was announced, comparing the PS5 Pro to other Sony consoles. But how does Switch 2 stack up to some other past consoles?PlayStation 2The PlayStation 2 was released in 2000 and is the biggest selling console of all time. It cost $299 USD back then and now, adjusted for inflation, the PS2 would cost $565 USD in 2025!Xbox 360The Xbox follow-up was the company's most-successful console and was released in 2005 for $299 USD, or about $500 USD in 2025.Console prices adjust for inflation. The PS3 was super expensive! Image credit: IGNSo that's how the Switch 2's price stacks up against its predecessors and some rivals. For more, check out IGN's hands-on with the Switch 2 as well as games like Mario Kart World. Also, check out our chat with analysts on just why exactly the Switch 2 and everything around it costs so much.Matt Kim is IGN's Senior Features Editor.

As the editor-in-chief of Country Living, I have been fortunate to work alongside some of the countrys most talented designers, stylists, and tastemakers. After conducting hundreds of interviews and working behind-the-scenes on countless photo shoots, Ive learned plenty along the way, including the value of slow decorating, the enduring appeal of an unfitted kitchen, and the best secret sources for buying antiques online. (Its no secret that I have a thing for antiques.)Despite the beauty of a homes custom-upholstered sofas and original knotty pine walls and breathtaking views, what I find most fascinating on photo shoots are all of the little tricks and tactics designers and stylists swear by when it comes to making a room look camera-ready. While we cant all afford to hire a designer or buy a shingled house on the Cape, we can steal a few secrets to make our own homes feel more polished and put together.Read McKendreeA well appointed sofa in a living room designed by Katie Rosenfeld For example, for a truly high-impact arrangement, I now know theres nothing quite like a giant tree branchIm partial to magnoliaslipped into the narrow neck of a demijohn. (I have since saved so much on flowers.) I have also learned that every household needs a good steamer and thatdont ask me whyodd numbers of objects always make for a more visually pleasing grouping.Get More Stylists SecretsMy favorite, trick, howeverthe one I have embraced for years nowis to always size up on your pillow inserts. In other words, that 22-inch pillow cover will look better, and fuller, with a 24-inch insert (preferably down or down-alternative), not a 22-inch insert, which is what most people would assume. (Psst: Those in the know swear that Restoration Hardware has the best inserts. If they dont have your size, this Istanbul, Turkey-based Etsy shop has every configuration imaginable.) Ive found that even cheap-ish pillow covers will shine when filled with a quality, larger-scale insert.Nick JohnsonNo slouchers here. Plush pillows cozy up a living room by designer Erica Harrison.Still, if youd rather not buy all new pillows (I get it!), Texas stylist Becki Griffin has another quick fix. She recommends filling the floppy corners of your not-so-plush throw pillows with a generous handful of Poly-fil. It costs a few dollars, but your pillows will look like a million bucks, she says.For what its worth, a plusher pillow is also a lot more fun to karate-chop, if that's something youre into. Brian Woodcock, styling by Heather Bullard for Country LivingIn an Alabama farmhouse by Paige Thornton, a sofa sits pretty with plush pillows. Related StoriesRachel Hardage BarrettRachel Hardage Barrett has written for and edited lifestyle publications for more than 20 years. As the editor-in-chief of Country Living, she has covered all things related to country lifeincluding design, gardening, food, travel, antiques, crafts, and country pop culturefor more than a decade. Before Country Living, Rachel spent several years at Southern Living, where she served as Executive Editor covering travel, food, style, and features. Before Southern Living, Rachel was the Special Projects Director of Real Simple, where she wrote and oversaw books and special issues about food, travel, weddings, organizing, and parenting in addition to working on international editions and licensed products. Before working at lifestyle brands, Rachel started her magazine career at Glamour, where she wrote and edited relationship articles, celebrity interviews, as well as fashion and features content. When shes not working on the magazine, she can likely be found poking around an antiques shop, perusing country real estate listings, or dreaming of opening a general store.

Apr 04, 2025The Hacker NewsApplication Security / DevSecOpsThere's a virtuous cycle in technology that pushes the boundaries of what's being built and how it's being used. A new technology development emerges and captures the world's attention. People start experimenting and discover novel applications, use cases, and approaches to maximize the innovation's potential. These use cases generate significant value, fueling demand for the next iteration of the innovation, and in turn, a new wave of innovators create the next generation of use cases, driving further advancements.Containerization has become the foundation of modern, cloud-native software development, supporting new use cases and approaches to building resilient, scalable, and portable applications. It also holds the keys to the next software delivery innovation, simultaneously necessitating the evolution to secure-by-design, continuously-updated software and serving as the means to get there.Below, I'll talk through some of the innovations that led to our containerized revolution, as well as some of the traits of cloud-native software development that have led to this inflection point one that has primed the world to move away from traditional Linux distros and towards a new approach to open source software delivery.Iteration has moved us closer to ubiquityThere have been many innovations that have paved the way for more secure, performant open source delivery. In the interest of your time and my word count I'll call out three particular milestones. Each step, from Linux Containers (LXC) to Docker and ultimately the Open Container Initiative (OCI), built upon its predecessor, addressing limitations and unlocking new possibilities.LXC laid the groundwork by harnessing the Linux kernel's capabilities (namely cgroups and namespaces), to create lightweight, isolated environments. For the first time, developers could package applications with their dependencies, offering a degree of consistency across different systems. However, LXC's complexity for users and its lack of a standardized image distribution catalog hindered widespread adoption.Docker emerged as a game-changer, democratizing container technology. It simplified the process of creating, running, and sharing containers, making them accessible to a broader audience. Docker's user-friendly interface and the creation of Docker Hub, a central repository for container images, fostered a vibrant ecosystem. This ease of use fueled rapid adoption, but also raised concerns about vendor lock-in and the need for interoperability.Recognizing the potential for fragmentation, the OCI (Open Containers Initiative) stepped in to standardize container formats and runtimes. By defining open specifications, the OCI ensured that containers could be built and run across different platforms, fostering a healthy, competitive landscape. Projects like runC and containerd, born from the OCI, provided a common foundation for container runtimes and enabled greater portability and interoperability.The OCI standards also enabled Kubernetes (another vendor-neutral standard) to become a truly portable platform, capable of running on a wide range of infrastructure and allowing organizations to orchestrate their applications consistently across different cloud providers and on-premises environments. This standardization and its associated innovations unlocked the full potential of containers, paving the way for their ubiquitous presence in modern software development.[Containerized] software is eating the worldThe advancements in Linux, the rapid democratization of containers through Docker, and the standardization of OCI were all propelled by necessity, with the evolution of cloud-native app use cases pushing orchestration and standardization forward. Those cloud-native application characteristics also highlight why a general-purpose approach to Linux distros no longer serves software developers with the most secure, updated foundations to develop on:Microservice-oriented architecture: Cloud-native applications are typically built as a collection of small, independent services, with each microservice performing a specific function. Each of these microservices can be built, deployed, and maintained independently, which provides a tremendous amount of flexibility and resiliency. Because each microservice is independent, software builders don't require comprehensive software packages to run a microservice, relying only on the bare essentials within a container.Resource-conscious and efficient: Cloud-native applications are built to be efficient and resource-conscious to minimize loads on infrastructure. This stripped down approach naturally aligns well with containers and an ephemeral deployment strategy, with new containers being deployed constantly and other workloads being updated to the latest code available. This cuts down security risks by taking advantage of the newest software packages, rather than waiting for distro patches and backports.Portability: Cloud-native applications are designed to be portable, with consistent performance and reliability regardless of where the application is running. As a result of containers standardizing the environment, developers can move beyond the age-old "it worked fine on my machine" headaches of the past.The virtuous cycle of innovation driving new use cases and ultimately new innovations is clear when it comes to containerization and the widespread adoption of cloud-native applications. Critically, this inflection point of innovation and use case demands has driven an incredible rate of change within open source software we've reached a point where the security, performance, and innovation drawbacks of traditional "frozen-in-time" Linux distros outweigh the familiarity and perceived stability of the last generation of software delivery. So what should the next generation of open source software delivery look like?Enter: Chainguard OSTo meet modern security, performance, and productivity expectations, software builders need the latest software in the smallest form designed for their use case, without any of the CVEs that lead to risk for the business (and a list of "fix-its" from the security teams). Making good on those parameters requires more than just making over the past. Instead, the next generation of open source software delivery needs to start from the source of secure, updated software: the upstream maintainers.That's why Chainguard built this new distroless approach, continuously rebuilding software packages based not on downstream distros but on the upstream sources that are removing vulnerabilities and adding performance improvements. We call it Chainguard OS.Chainguard OS serves as the foundation for the broad security, efficiency, and productivity outcomes that Chainguard products deliver today, "Chainguarding" a rapidly growing catalog of over 1,000 container images.Chainguard OS adheres to four key principles to make that possible:Continuous Integration and Delivery: Emphasizes the continuous integration, testing, and release of upstream software packages, ensuring a streamlined and efficient development pipeline through automation.Nano Updates and Rebuilds: Favors non-stop incremental updates and rebuilds over major release upgrades, ensuring smoother transitions and minimizing disruptive changes.Minimal, Hardened, Immutable Artifacts: Strips away unnecessary vendor bloat from software artifacts, making sidecar packages and extras optional to the user while enhancing security through hardening measures.Delta Minimization: Keeps deviations from upstream to a minimum, incorporating extra patches only when essential and only for as long as necessary until a new release is cut from upstream.Perhaps the best way to highlight the value of Chainguard OS's principles is to see the impact in Chainguard Images.In the below screenshot (and viewable here), you can see a side-by-side comparison between an external <python:latest> and <cgr.dev/chainguard/python:latest> Chainguard Image.Aside from the very clear discrepancy in the vulnerability count, it's worth examining the size difference between the two container images. The Chainguard image comprises just 6% of the open source alternative image.Along with the minimized image size, the Chainguard image was last updated just an hour prior to the screengrab, something that happens daily:A quick scan of the provenance and SBOM data illustrates the end-to-end integrity and immutability of the artifacts a kind of complete nutrition label that underscores the security and transparency that a modern approach to open source software delivery can provide.Each Chainguard image stands as a practical example of the value Chainguard OS provides, offering a stark alternative to what has come before it. Perhaps the greatest indicator is the feedback we've received from customers, who have shared how Chainguard's container images have helped eliminate CVEs, secure their supply chains, achieve and maintain compliance, and reduce developer toil, enabling them to re-allocate precious developer resources.Our belief is that Chainguard OS's principles and approach can be applied to a variety of use cases, extending the benefits of continuously rebuilt-from-source software packages to even more of the open source ecosystem.If you found this useful, be sure to check out our whitepaper on this subject or contact our team to talk to an expert on Chainguard's distroless approach. Note: This article is expertly written and contributed by Dustin Kirkland VP of Engineering at Chainguard.Found this article interesting? This article is a contributed piece from one of our valued partners. Follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn to read more exclusive content we post.SHARE