In March, we witnessed a showcase of creativity and technical prowess in the automotive world. Designers and engineers have pushed the boundaries of aesthetics and function, resulting in vehicles that look amazing and also introduce real innovation. From electrified lounges to off-road warriors, timeless luxury to futuristic eVTOL prototypes, this month’s releases offer a glimpse into the future of mobility. We have curated a collection of the ten best automotive designs that truly stood out in March 2025. March 2025 has demonstrated that automotive design is as much about innovation and storytelling as it is about transportation. These ten vehicles—spanning electric luxury, rugged off-roaders, airborne prototypes, and artistic bespoke commissions—each bring something unique to the table.  There is a design here to spark your imagination and redefine your expectations for the future of mobility. 1. Fordzilla Hypervan The Fordzilla Hypervan is an electrified dune buggy that looks like it’s been plucked straight from a sci-fi blockbuster. Drawing inspiration from reptilian creatures and finished in menacing matte black highlighted by vivid orange accents, the Hypervan is as bold as it is functional. Its design is unmistakable, with gull-wing glass doors that fuse with the panoramic windshield and roof, giving the interior a sense of openness and drama. Under the skin, the rear-mounted battery hints at its rear-wheel-drive roots, promising engaging handling both on and off the pavement. The elevated rear end provides extra downforce, keeping the Hypervan stable at high speeds while maintaining agility on sandy or urban terrain. Every detail—from the aggressive stance to the innovative use of glass—emphasizes performance and personality. What we like The Hypervan’s aggressive, futuristic styling ensures it stands out wherever it goes. Built for both urban and off-road environments, it offers a unique blend of fun and functionality. What we dislike Its outlandish design may not suit everyone, limiting its mainstream marketability. The extensive use of glass, while stylish, could lead to challenges with glare or privacy. 2. Mercedes-Benz Vision V Concept Mercedes-Benz has reimagined what it means to travel in luxury with the Vision V, a concept that transforms the traditional boundaries of both limousines and multipurpose vehicles. The Vision V represents a bold step into uncharted territory, delivering a vehicle that merges the comfort and indulgence of a lounge with the practicality of a family van. The exterior is a study in sculptural elegance, with flowing contours and dynamic lighting signatures that signal refinement from a distance. Step inside, and you’re greeted with a marvel of interior architecture. The cabin is designed as an open, seamless space, featuring plush seating, exquisite wood and metalwork, and a retractable cinema screen paired with an immersive Dolby Atmos audio system.  It is created for a diverse audience, from business professionals looking for a mobile workspace to families seeking a serene road trip experience, and even gamers desiring a rolling entertainment hub. What we like The Vision V’s interior is a masterclass in comfort and craftsmanship, boasting high-end materials, a cinema-quality entertainment system, and thoughtful touches throughout.  This concept appeals to a broad spectrum of users, seamlessly shifting between executive transport, family trips, and recreational activities. What we dislike With its level of sophistication and luxury, the Vision V will likely command a premium price, putting it out of reach for many. Its size and lavish features may make it less suited for tight urban environments or those seeking a more utilitarian vehicle. 3. Project Safari Few cars evoke the pure joy of driving like the original Lotus Elise S1, but Project Safari takes this classic and reinvents it for a new kind of enthusiast. Created by motorsports photographer-turned-builder GF Williams, Project Safari transforms the Elise into an off-road-ready rally machine, blending nostalgia with rugged capability. The most noticeable change is the elevated ride height—a 100mm lift that signals its intent to tackle rough terrain. The underbody is armored for protection, while the oversized fenders accommodate grippy all-terrain tires. The front end swaps out the Elise’s iconic round headlights for rectangular units, giving the car a fierce, rally-inspired face. What we like  The lifted suspension and reinforced chassis allow the Elise to handle rough terrain with surprising agility. The restomod’s aggressive styling and rally touches make it truly stand out from both classic Elises and modern off-roaders. What we dislike While built for adventure, the stiffer suspension and beefy tires may reduce comfort during everyday drives. Traditionalists may balk at such a radical departure from Elise’s original ethos. 4. Corvette EV Concept General Motors has taken an exciting leap with its latest Corvette concept, reinterpreting one of America’s most beloved sports cars for the age of electrification. The Corvette EV concept ditches its legendary V8 for a cutting-edge electric drivetrain, yet retains the low-slung, aggressive silhouette that defines the Corvette lineage. Rather than relying on nostalgia, the design language is forward-looking, sleek, and suitably futuristic. Built on GM’s advanced Ultium platform, the Corvette EV promises a blend of performance and efficiency that honors its heritage while embracing the future. The battery-integrated chassis provides a rock-solid foundation, with the electric motors delivering instant torque and precise handling. The likely all-wheel-drive configuration ensures that power is delivered seamlessly, whether accelerating in a straight line or carving through corners What we like Electric propulsion brings explosive acceleration and razor-sharp handling, taking the Corvette experience to new heights. The concept’s styling is fresh and daring, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences. What we dislike The absence of the iconic V8 roar may disappoint purists who equate the Corvette with visceral engine notes. Some traditionalists might see the shift to electric as a betrayal of the Corvette’s legacy. 5. Mustang eBike To celebrate the Mustang’s 60th anniversary, Ford has taken an unexpected turn by launching an electric bike rather than a special car. The Mustang eBike 60th Anniversary Edition channels the spirit of the legendary pony car into a sleek and powerful two-wheeler. Dressed in Rangoon Red with period-accurate badges and a commemorative plaque, this limited-edition eBike is a blend of automotive nostalgia and next-generation technology. At the heart of the Mustang eBike is a robust 750W rear hub motor, generating a punchy 63 lb-ft of torque and propelling the bike to a top assisted speed of 28 mph. The high-capacity 720Wh battery offers up to 60 miles of range, making it suitable for both city commutes and weekend adventures. With four selectable power modes, riders can tailor the experience to their needs, balancing performance with battery conservation. What we like The Mustang eBike delivers strong acceleration and a generous range, making it practical and fun. The styling pays homage to the original Mustang, appealing to both cyclists and automotive enthusiasts. What we dislike As a special edition, supply will be restricted, potentially leaving many fans empty-handed. Those expecting a car may be disappointed by the shift to a two-wheeled format. 6. Dongfeng M-Hunter The Dongfeng M-Hunter is a masterclass in functional design, eschewing the polished curves of modern SUVs for a raw, purpose-driven aesthetic. This 4×4 doesn’t try to hide its ruggedness—instead, it puts it on full display. The M-Hunter’s exoskeletal frame looks more at home on a wilderness expedition than a city street, with prominent tubular structures that double as both protection and mounting points for gear. With approach and departure angles rivaling the best off-roaders in the world, and ground clearance that dares you to find its limits, the M-Hunter is built for adventure. It’s capable of fording deep water and shrugging off punishing terrain, thanks to thoughtful engineering and minimalist design. This is automotive brutalism at its finest—every element serves a purpose, and nothing is superfluous. What we like With outstanding ground clearance and approach angles, the M-Hunter is ready for the toughest environments. The exposed frame and minimalist approach make it a standout in a crowded SUV market. What we dislike The brutalist design may not resonate with buyers seeking more traditional or luxurious appearances. Its hardcore nature could make it less comfortable for everyday driving or urban use. 7. Cyclotech Blackbird The Cyclotech Blackbird isn’t your typical eVTOL. Rather than using conventional propellers, it employs six Cyclorotors—rotating barrels fitted with adjustable blades, enabling precise control and stability. At just 750 pounds, the current prototype is more of a demonstrator than a passenger vehicle, but it represents a radical shift in how flying cars might operate shortly. The genius of the Blackbird lies in its ability to instantly redirect airflow, giving it micro-adjustments and maneuverability previously unseen in vertical flight. Unlike helicopters or drones, which rely on spinning blades or tilting rotors, the Blackbird’s engines can shift thrust direction on the fly. This enables the craft to hover steadily in turbulent conditions, move laterally without banking, and execute complex maneuvers in tight spaces. What we like The Cyclorotor system offers exceptional control and hovering capabilities, even in challenging wind conditions. The unique rotor arrangement could allow for smaller, more urban-friendly air vehicles in the future. What we dislike The Blackbird is still an experimental platform, so real-world application and scalability remain unproven.  As a demonstrator, it currently offers no seating, limiting its practical use for now. 8. Rolls-Royce Phantom Cherry Blossom The Rolls-Royce Phantom Cherry Blossom is a stunning testament to the power of bespoke design. Commissioned by a discerning client with a passion for Japanese culture, this one-of-a-kind Phantom is a rolling work of art, capturing the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms in a form meant to endure for generations. The exterior, finished in a subtle blend of Crystal and Arctic White, is adorned with a hand-painted coachline that culminates in a delicate cherry blossom motif. But it’s the interior that takes your breath away—a ceiling embroidered with 250,000 stitches depicts cherry branches in bloom, while the motif extends to the rear doors and privacy partition, creating a tranquil, immersive environment. What we like Every detail is meticulously crafted to the client’s vision, showcasing the highest level of personalization in luxury motoring. The design is a permanent tribute to the beauty of the cherry blossom season, blending art and engineering. What we dislike As a unique commission, it’s unattainable for most, reinforcing its status as a piece of art rather than a production vehicle. The understated paintwork may not immediately signal the artistry contained within, appealing mostly to those who appreciate subtlety. 9. S/Rapide The S/Rapide by Angell is making waves in the e-bike world as one of the lightest electric bikes available, engineered to revolutionize the daily commute. This innovative e-bike is crafted with city living in mind, offering a swift, eco-friendly, and highly enjoyable way to navigate crowded urban environments. What sets the S/Rapide apart is its featherweight construction and its array of intelligent features designed for modern commuters. Riders benefit from an integrated touch screen that provides real-time information, including speed, battery status, and even local pollution levels. The handlebars have a vibration feature to offer navigation cues, while the customizable display allows users to tailor their ride experience with GPS guidance and other commute data. Beyond its smart technology, the S/Rapide carries a minimalistic yet sophisticated aesthetic, ensuring it looks as good as it performs. What we like Exceptionally lightweight build paired with advanced smart technology for a seamless and enjoyable commute. Actively helps reduce the environmental footprint by lowering greenhouse gas emissions. What we dislike Not well-suited for off-road adventures or rough terrain due to its urban-oriented design. The abundance of advanced features may present a learning curve for users unfamiliar with high-tech e-bikes. 10. TWR Supercat The TWR Supercat, crafted by the renowned Tom Walkinshaw Racing, breathes new life into the legendary Jaguar XJS by fusing classic elegance with cutting-edge performance. Revealed at a pivotal moment when Jaguar is preparing for a fully electric lineup, the Supercat stands as a passionate homage to the brand’s storied heritage in motorsport. Its design pays tribute to legendary racing icons like the XJR-15 and XJ220, seamlessly blending aggressive aerodynamic lines with unmistakable Jaguar refinement. Underneath its striking carbon fiber shell lies a beastly supercharged 5.6-liter V12 engine, meticulously tuned by TWR’s expert engineers. This formidable powerplant churns out a staggering 660 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque, ensuring that the Supercat offers both speed and exhilaration in abundance. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, inviting true driving enthusiasts to experience the thrill of raw, unfiltered performance. What we like Exceptional performance, thanks to a powerful supercharged V12 and manual gearbox, delivering a pure and engaging driving experience. Distinctive design that honors Jaguar’s racing roots while introducing advanced materials like carbon fiber for modern appeal. What we dislike The focus on high performance and classic engineering may limit its relevance as Jaguar moves towards an all-electric future. Exclusivity and specialized engineering likely make it expensive and inaccessible for the average enthusiast. The post 10 Best Automotive Designs Of March 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Watch as sunlight spills through linen sheers and every detail whispers calm. This Lithuania apartment by Alyona Marmachuk goes big on warm wood tones, clean lines, and the kind of effortless style that feels deeply livable. It is designed with intention and a love for natural materials, proving that minimalism doesn’t have to feel cold—it can feel like home. Whether you’re dreaming up your next project or just here for some serene inspiration, this tour will leave you breathing a little easier. The foyer sets the tone for what’s to come—calm, warm, and intentionally uncluttered. It is framed by soft taupe walls and herringbone wood flooring. A rich walnut console adds grounded warmth. This is styled minimally with a ceramic vase and soft ambient lighting. Built-in storage ensures everything has a place, proving that beauty and function can walk hand in hand—right through the front door. This open-plan space is the heart of the home—where calm mornings begin and cozy evenings end. The seamless transition from kitchen to dining to living is anchored in soft beige tones and natural wood finishes. The kitchen pairs sleek cabinetry with glass-front uppers, while the adjacent dining area centres around a minimalist round table perfect for slow meals and meaningful conversations. In the living zone, layered textures and earthy hues invite you to sink in and stay a while. Everything here feels connected, cohesive, and designed with everyday comfort in mind. The home office feels like a peaceful retreat full of natural light. A sturdy wood desk anchors the space. This is paired with a vintage-inspired swivel chair. Built-in cabinetry and open shelving keep clutter out of sight, while a sculptural pendant and floor lamp layer in gentle light. Whether it’s for deep focus or a moment of pause with a cup of tea, this workspace is designed to support clarity and calm. Soft morning light filters through layered sheers. This casts shadows that move with the breeze, adding understated elegance. The color palette is tones of oat, clay, and warm wood (together, these invite deep rest). A low, upholstered bed paired with fluted sconces creates a cocoon-like atmosphere, while hidden storage behind seamless panels keeps the room calm and uncluttered. In one nook is an accent chair made from rattan, while a compact workstation near the window lets you work with the best views. In the bathroom, soft taupe tiles wrap the space in warmth. Rich wood cabinetry and slatted storage add organic texture. A floating vanity keeps the layout feeling airy, complemented by sleek wall-mounted fixtures and gentle uplighting. Every detail is considered—from the built-in shelving for everyday essentials to the serene artwork above the toilet. It’s a space that invites slow starts, quiet endings, and everything in between.

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From charging adapters to external monitors, we’ve gathered the essential peripherals for your Apple laptop.

Macworld This is not a sponsored post. I am not being paid to promote this product. But it transformed my experience of using AirPods Pro so much that I want you to know about it. Comply foam tips, which generally sell for around $20 on Amazon, make my AirPods Pro 2 more comfortable, more secure, and better sounding. I literally use them more often because of these tips, and when I eventually get AirPods Pro 3, the first thing I’ll do is slap a new set of Comply foam tips on them. Apple knows that people have different ears, which is why it offers several AirPods Pro ear tips for different ear shapes. But they’re just hollow silicone flanges, which isn’t ideal for all ears. Comply (and a few other companies) make really excellent replacement tips that are made of memory foam. They attach just like Apple tips—just pop off the ones on your AirPods Pro and snap on the foam tips in their place. They fit as securely as the AirPods Pro’s ear tips and don’t interfere with their fit in the charging case. buy a set of Comply foam tips The memory foam shapes to the contours of your ear and is denser than that little silicone flap, so it forms a better seal. This slightly improves sound quality (especially on the low end) and is better at blocking out more outside noise, which in turn makes active noise canceling more effective. These little foam replacement tips are a huge improvement to my AirPods Pro 2.Foundry But they’re also more comfortable to wear for long periods and help the earbuds stay in place, which is a frequent problem for me—with Apple’s eartips, no matter which size I choose, one or both earbuds eventually work themselves loose if I’m doing something active like yardwork or working out at the gym. With the Comply foam tips, they never come loose. The tips come in sets of three pairs. At first, you buy a set where you get one small, medium, and large pair. Once you’ve found your size, you can buy three of the same size when you need a new set. Which brings us to the downside of these tips: You need to replace them after a few months of daily wear as the memory foam eventually starts to break down and wear out. So it’s good that you get three pairs. buy a set of Comply foam tips One set of $20 ear tips will last for a year or so of daily use. It’s a small price to pay for AirPods Pro which are more secure, comfortable, and sound better. If your AirPods Pro aren’t entirely comfortable, give them a chance—you’ll never want to use your AirPods Pro without them again. AirPods Pro 2 USB-C Read our review Price When Reviewed: €279 Best Prices Today: €219 at cyberport | €222 at OTTO | €254 at notebooksbilliger.de

A growing chorus of European technology executives is calling for the continent to assert control over its digital future, with Danish IT services giant Netcompany leading the latest push for technological self-reliance. In an open letter published on Wednesday — coinciding with the symbolic illumination of the Statue of Liberty replica in Paris a day before — Netcompany CEO André Rogaczewski explicitly challenged Europe’s dependence on foreign technology platforms and urged the region to “bring our data home.” “From social media to cloud infrastructure, from applications to algorithms, we are dependent on technologies developed elsewhere, by actors who may not share our values,” warned Rogaczewski, whose firm employs over 8,000 technology consultants across Europe. The high-profile campaign comes amid escalating tensions in global technology markets, with the European Commission recently intensifying scrutiny of US cloud providers’ market practices and ahead of upcoming EU-US discussions on trans-Atlantic data governance frameworks. “We are calling for European solutions — built by European companies, run on European data, and accountable to European citizens,” Rogaczewski stated, directly challenging the market dominance of American tech giants including Microsoft, Google, and Amazon Web Services, which collectively control a significant majority of Europe’s cloud infrastructure market according to industry reports. Europe’s strategic pivot in digital policy The remarks come amid a concerted push by European governments and institutions to localize control over key digital systems. Recent EU policies — the Digital Services Act, the Digital Markets Act, and the AI Act — are part of an evolving legal framework to strengthen regional oversight of platforms, algorithms, and cloud-based services. A month ago, leading European companies and lobbying groups — including Airbus, Element, and Nextcloud — under the umbrella of “EuroStack Initiative” signed an open letter urging the creation of an EU sovereign infrastructure fund to boost public investment in innovative technologies and build strategic autonomy in key sectors. “Building strategic autonomy in key sectors is now a recognised urgent imperative across Europe. As part of this common effort, Europe needs to recover the initiative, and become more technologically independent across all layers of its critical digital infrastructure,” the EuroStack letter read. These initiatives follow a global trend where technology is no longer seen purely through the lens of innovation or efficiency but as a strategic national asset. The US has tightened its grip on semiconductor exports to China. China, in turn, is accelerating its own domestic tech stack and enforcing data localization. In this shifting context, Europe’s historical reliance on the US and Chinese digital infrastructure has become a liability. Building a European tech ecosystem Netcompany, a publicly listed IT services provider with operations across Europe, is among a growing number of regional firms advocating for digital sovereignty. Their CEO’s comments underline the urgency to reduce reliance on US-based cloud giants and software vendors. Instead, the letter encourages a continental effort to cultivate indigenous technologies that align with European legal standards and ethical norms. “Technology lies at the heart of our wealth creation,” Rogaczewski said. “It drives our competitiveness and sits at the very center of how we communicate, learn, and develop as societies.” This vision extends beyond public discourse into concrete initiatives. GAIA-X, a European cloud infrastructure initiative, exemplifies this push toward a sovereign tech ecosystem, alongside other strategic programs including SiPearl and the EU’s AI Continent Action Plan that target capabilities in cloud infrastructure, semiconductors, and AI. US tech giants have not been idle in response to these sovereignty concerns. Amazon Web Services, for instance, has committed to a €7.8 billion ($8.9 billion) investment in an “AWS European Sovereign Cloud” and maintains that its approach has been “sovereign-by-design” from the beginning, with customers having “complete control over where they locate their data” within European regions and verifiable control over who can access it. “While complete technological independence is a complex and long-term goal, Europe is clearly building momentum toward digital and AI sovereignty,” said Shreeya Deshpande, senior analyst at Everest Group, highlighting how the coordinated nature of such efforts reflects growing momentum across Europe. While challenges remain, particularly in scaling and integrating across fragmented markets, the political will and regulatory backing for European tech nationalism is growing. Sovereignty without isolation Rogaczewski’s appeal reflects a growing consensus among European stakeholders that sovereignty does not mean isolation. Rather, it signals a recalibration of Europe’s role in the global digital order. Europe is seeking to maintain open markets and innovation, while ensuring that core digital infrastructure and sensitive data remain under regional control. “Emerging mechanisms, such as data embassies and sovereign cloud frameworks, offer a practical middle path — enabling countries to maintain legal and operational control over data and AI systems while remaining interoperable with global platforms,” Deshpande added. The message resonates with policymakers who see technology not just as a tool of commerce but as a pillar of democratic governance. “This places our security, sovereignty, and democracy at risk,” Rogaczewski warned, referring to Europe’s current dependency on foreign platforms. The lighting of the Statue of Liberty — once gifted by France to the US as a symbol of shared democratic values — served as a potent backdrop to Rogaczewski’s message. He framed his letter as both a reminder of historical ties and a warning that those values are now “under heavy pressure.” “Our modern societies are based on the very same principles of freedom and democracy,” he wrote. “We must stand united in our commitment to these values and fight for them each and every day.”

This is today’s edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what’s going on in the world of technology. Inside the controversial tree farms powering Apple’s carbon neutral goal “We were losing the light, and still about 20 kilometers from the main road, when the car shuddered and died at the edge of a strange forest.  The grove grew as if indifferent to certain unspoken rules of botany. There was no understory, no foreground or background, only the trees themselves, which grew as a wall of bare trunks that rose 100 feet or so before concluding with a burst of thick foliage near the top. The rows of trees ran perhaps the length of a New York City block and fell away abruptly on either side into untidy fields of dirt and grass. The vista recalled the husk of a failed condo development, its first apartments marooned when the builders ran out of cash.” This is the opening to our latest Big Story, which we are excited to share today. It’s all about how Apple (and its peers) are planting vast forests of eucalyptus trees in Brazil to try to offset their climate emissions, striking some of the largest-ever deals for carbon credits in the process.  The big question is: Can Latin America’s eucalyptus be a scalable climate solution? Read the full story. —Gregory Barber This article is part of the Big Story series: MIT Technology Review’s most important, ambitious reporting that takes a deep look at the technologies that are coming next and what they will mean for us and the world we live in. Check out the rest of them here. The vibes are shifting for US climate tech The past few years have been an almost nonstop parade of good news for climate tech in the US. Headlines about billion-dollar grants from the government, massive private funding rounds, and labs churning out advance after advance have been routine. Now, though, things are starting to shift.   About $8 billion worth of US climate tech projects have been canceled or downsized so far in 2025. There are still projects moving forward, but these cancellations definitely aren’t a good sign. So, how worried should we be? Read the full story.—Casey Crownhart This article is from The Spark, MIT Technology Review’s weekly climate newsletter. To receive it in your inbox every Wednesday, sign up here. The must-reads I’ve combed the internet to find you today’s most fun/important/scary/fascinating stories about technology. 1 Elon Musk had a shouting match with the US Treasury Secretary  Scott Bessent did not take DOGE meddling with the IRS lying down. (Axios)+ Musk announced he’d spend less time on government work shortly afterwards. (WP $)+ What has the agency achieved in its first 100 days? Chaos. (Reuters) 2 Trump’s tariffs are disrupting production of vital medical devicesOf everything from MRI scanners to glucose monitors. (FT $)+ The tariffs aren’t good news for protective medical gear makers either. (NYT $) 3 Nvidia has released a new platform for building AI agents And unlike its rivals, it relies on open-source models to make them. (WSJ $)+ Nvidia has a very specific vision for how they’ll work. (The Register)+ Why handing over total control to AI agents would be a huge mistake. (MIT Technology Review)4 Even Mark Zuckerberg thinks social media isn’t what it was The question is, what comes next? (New Yorker $)+ Meta’s Oversight Board ruled that videos disparaging trans women aren’t hate speech. (WP $)+ How to fix the internet. (MIT Technology Review) 5 How AI can help programmers preserve aging computer codeGovernments across the world are using AI tools to modernize their systems. (Bloomberg $)+ The race to save our online lives from a digital dark age. (MIT Technology Review) 6 LinkedIn is rolling out its verification systemAdobe is among its first adoptees. (The Verge) 7 Google’s AI Overviews is making stuff up againThis time, it’s confidently claiming that made-up idioms are real. (Wired $)+ Why Google’s AI Overviews gets things wrong. (MIT Technology Review) 8 Reselling apps are flourishing in the USSavvy shoppers are dodging tariffs by shopping second-hand. (WP $)+ The end of ultra-cheap shopping is nigh. (Rest of World) 9 How to create a new colorOlo is a bit like teal—but it doesn’t technically exist. (The Atlantic $) 10 This Starbucks store is entirely 3D-printedThe coffee will still taste the same, though. (Fast Company $)+ Meet the designers printing houses out of salt and clay. (MIT Technology Review) Quote of the day “It went from a Cinderella story to Nightmare on Elm Street.” —Dan Ives, a Wedbush Securities analyst, tells the Financial Times why Elon Musk’s allegiance to Donald Trump has backfired for his businesses. One more thing How a tiny Pacific Island became the global capital of cybercrimeTokelau, a string of three isolated atolls strung out across the Pacific, is so remote that it was the last place on Earth to be connected to the telephone—only in 1997. Just three years later, the islands received a fax with an unlikely business proposal that would change everything.It was from an early internet entrepreneur from Amsterdam, named Joost Zuurbier. He wanted to manage Tokelau’s country-code top-level domain, or ccTLD—the short string of characters that is tacked onto the end of a URL—in exchange for money.In the succeeding years, tiny Tokelau became an unlikely internet giant—but not in the way it may have hoped. Until recently, its .tk domain had more users than any other country’s: a staggering 25 million—but the vast majority were spammers, phishers, and cybercriminals.Now the territory is desperately trying to clean up .tk. Its international standing, and even its sovereignty, may depend on it. Read the full story. —Jacob Judah We can still have nice things A place for comfort, fun and distraction to brighten up your day. (Got any ideas? Drop me a line or skeet ’em at me.) + An almond and potato cake? You’ve got my attention.+ When you get a tattoo, where does the ink go?+ The latest season of Black Mirror was filmed almost entirely in the UK.+ Lenny Kravitz’s Parisian home is incredibly chic.

TSMC has confirmed the existence of a 1.4-nanometer process, that will be used to make future Apple Silicon chips starting in 2028.Chips on wafers - Image Credit: TSMCThe performance improvements of Apple's hardware is largely down to improvements in its chip designs, with newer versions getting faster over time. Another component is how the chips themselves are made, which is down to the efforts of Apple chip partner TSMC.On Wednesday, TSMC used its North America Technology Symposium to unveil its A14 process. An improvement on the 2-nanometer N2 process, the A14 is anticipated by TSMC to help push forward artificial intelligence on servers, as well as on smartphones like the iPhone. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

A new agreement between the United Kingdom and Canada will make it easier for architects to register and practice professionally in both countries. Signed by the UK’s Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Regulatory Organizations of Architecture in Canada (ROAC), the mutual recognition agreement aims to streamline the registration process for eligible professionals. Under the new agreement, which comes into effect on 14 May, architects already registered in either the UK or Canada will benefit from a faster and more efficient pathway to practice in the other country.  Registration with a national regulator is legally required in both countries to use the title “architect” and to practice architecture. The agreement recognizes the equivalent qualifications and professional standards upheld in the UK and Canada, making cross-border opportunities more accessible. Read further perspectives on the topic of licensure, including licensure in the UK, as part of our Archinect In-Depth:...

Got a project that’s too wild for this world? Submit your conceptual works, images and ideas for global recognition and print publication in the 2025 Vision Awards, The Early Entry period is underway — start your entry today. Right in the heart of Thessaloniki, where traces of Byzantine history still shape the city, Monasty Hotel offers both a peaceful escape and a thoughtful nod to its past. Designed by Not a Number Architects for Marriott’s Autograph Collection, the 100-room hotel blends the quiet, reverent feel of a religious space with the warmth and comfort of modern luxury. This one-of-a-kind design wowed judges in Architizer’s 12th Annual A+Awards, winning the Jury Vote in the Commercial Interiors (>25,000 sq ft) category. Thessaloniki was once the second most important city in the Byzantine Empire, and its surviving Orthodox churches such as the Church of Saint Demetrios and the Church of Agia Sophia, are architectural relics of that time. Monasty stands in a location rich with history and even sits next to the only monastry still active in the city center — The Monastery of Agia Theodora. The monastry was rebuilt after the great fire of 1917 on the foundations of an older Byzantine structure. This unique setting inspired a design that combines the simple monastic life with the sophisticated modern hospitality. So how does a 5-star hotel resurrect centuries of history? From hidden symbolism to heavenly lighting, here are seven ways the hotel brings the past to life: 1. Symmetry and Order Monasty  by Not a Number Architects, Thessaloniki, Greece | Jury Winner, Commercial Interiors (>25,000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards The hotel’s ground floor follows a clear, church-like symmetry. Guests enter through doors that act like a Western church door, drawing the eye straight down a central axis to a hidden courtyard. At the center, the bar stands like an altar opposite the entry way. Above it all, a grand wooden ceiling stretches across the space further mirroring the naves of Byzantine churches, creating a calm, almost sacred atmosphere. 2. Monastic Material Palette Monasty  by Not a Number Architects, Thessaloniki, Greece | Jury Winner, Commercial Interiors (>25,000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards Byzantine architecture often paired modest structures with richly detailed interiors. Walls were lined with thin sheets of marble or patterned stone, while bricks, stone, and mosaics added depth and texture. Fine wood furniture, from stools to shelves, brought warmth and refinement into these sacred spaces. Monasty continues this tradition with its thoughtful material palette of brick, stone, wood, and marble. The stone flooring flows seamlessly from the hotel’s covered entrance into the lobby, echoing the cool, durable floors of Byzantine churches. At the reception, a black marble desk stands before a monochrome brick wall, softened by wood-framed shelving that brings balance and warmth. Throughout the hotel, furniture in richly grained wood adds texture and tactility, reinforcing the sense of crafted elegance that defines both the monastic and the modern. 3. Chapel-Inspired Lighting Monasty  by Not a Number Architects, Thessaloniki, Greece | Jury Winner, Commercial Interiors (>25,000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards Lighting in Byzantine churches was designed to feel spiritual — dim, diffused, and often flickering from oil lamps or candles. This gentle illumination gave interiors a sense of mystery, slowing time and encouraging reflection. Monasty channels that same mood with layered lighting. Brass chandeliers which were modeled after traditional hanging candlesticks line the hotel’s main axis, casting a warm, inviting glow toward the bar. Elsewhere, low-hanging pendants and gently lit alcoves create pockets of intimacy. Shadows which are part of the design help to create a quietly dramatic aura about the hotel. 4. Icon-inspired Colors Monasty  by Not a Number Architects, Thessaloniki, Greece | Jury Winner, Commercial Interiors (>25,000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards Byzantine art was full of rich, earthy tones that came in deep reds, ochres, olive greens and soft golds. These colors weren’t just beautiful; they helped create a calm, reverent mood in churches and icons. Monasty brings that same feeling into its interiors. The color palette is warm and muted, filled with terracotta brick, dark woods, and black marble. Even the textiles and furniture like the pale red banquettes and stone-colored walls, feel pulled from an icon’s background. Everywhere you look, the tones are soft, grounded and emotionally rich. This thoughtful use of color creates an atmosphere that feels sacred but not cold. It’s quiet and elegant, rooted in Byzantine tradition, but still completely modern. 5. Arches and Alcoves Monasty  by Not a Number Architects, Thessaloniki, Greece | Jury Winner, Commercial Interiors (>25,000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards Arches were central to Byzantine architecture. They held up walls and marked the line between the earthly and the divine. The designers spoke that language in the interior of this hotel with rounded forms at every turn. You’ll see it in the restaurant’s curved alcove seating, in the bedroom headboards shaped by rows of repeating arches and in the gentle curves of the hallway ceilings. Even the wooden display shelves are topped with rounded edges. They nod to ancient basilicas but still feel right at home in a modern hotel. 6. Art as Storytelling Monasty  by Not a Number Architects, Thessaloniki, Greece | Jury Winner, Commercial Interiors (>25,000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards Byzantine interiors weren’t just about beauty. They were meant to teach. Through detailed mosaics and paintings, churches shared stories of faith and history with anyone who entered. Monasty brings that same idea into its design. Greek artist Fikos created murals in a modern Byzantine style. His work tells the story of Thessaloniki in a way that feels both ancient and fresh. These paintings do more than decorate. They root the space in local culture and invite guests to pause and reflect. Just like in old churches, the art here is meant to be seen, remembered and felt. 7. A Garden of Stillness Monasty  by Not a Number Architects, Thessaloniki, Greece | Jury Winner, Commercial Interiors (>25,000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards Byzantine monasteries were places of quiet. They often had small gardens or courtyards for reflection. These spaces helped monks disconnect from the outside world and connect with something deeper. Monasty brings that same idea into the city. At the back of the hotel, a secret garden waits. It’s filled with soft greenery, water, and calm light. It feels hidden, like a breath held in. The noise of the city disappears. In its place is quiet, stillness, and a sense that time has slowed. Just like in a monastery. Monasty  by Not a Number Architects, Thessaloniki, Greece | Jury Winner, Commercial Interiors (>25,000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards Monasty doesn’t just take cues from Byzantine architecture. It brings the style and the spirit back to life. Each of the seven design moves explored here reveals a clear connection to the past, from symmetry and arches to lighting, materials, and atmosphere. But none of it feels dated. Instead, the hotel offers a calm and luxurious experience rooted in its surroundings. In a city shaped by centuries of faith and design, Monasty quietly resurrects Byzantine heritage in a way that feels both timeless and new. Got a project that’s too wild for this world? Submit your conceptual works, images and ideas for global recognition and print publication in the 2025 Vision Awards, The Early Entry period is underway — start your entry today. The post Monastic Modernism: Resurrecting The Essence of Byzantine Architecture appeared first on Journal.