Best Buy just kicked off its second round of Early Black Friday deals. This time around, the best deals are limited to gaming PCs and laptops, TVs, and some gaming peripherals. The final round of Early Black Friday deals should go live on Friday, November 22. One significant advantage that Best Buy has over online-only retailers like Amazon is that you have the option of buying online and picking it up in store. Chances are there's a retail location within driving distance of your home. Not only do you avoid the hassle of shipping, especially during the busy holiday season, but it's easy to return the monitor if you're dissatisfied.Black Friday TV DealsThe 65" Samsung OLED TV is definitely the best TV deal currently available, but it has at this price for a few days now. The best new deal is the 48" LG B4 OLED TV for just $599.99. This deal was previously only available to My Best Buy Plus members, but not anymore. This would make a great gaming monitor thanks to its HDMI 2.1 inputs with up to 120Hz refresh rate. Rtings mentions that in Game Optimizer mode, the image quality is comparable to the much more expensive LG C4.65" Samsung S90C 4K OLED Smart TV48" LG B4 4K OLED Smart TV75" Insignia F50 4K Fire TV75" Samsung DU6950 4K Smart TV85" Hisense QD7 4K 144Hz QLED Smart TV85" Hisense QD6 4K QLED Google TV85" TCL Q5 4K QLED Fire TVBlack Friday Gaming PC DealsBest Buy completely refreshed its selection of early Black Friday gaming PC deals. If you're on a budget, the iBuyPower Scale RTX 4060 gaming PC for $699.99 is a tremendous deal and a great candidate for 1080p gaming. Another gaming PC deserving of mention is the CyberPowerPC Gamer Supreme, which features the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU (predecessor to the new 9800X3D) and a powerful RTX 4070 Super GPU. This rig can handle 1440p and 4K gaming.iBuyPower Scale Intel Core i5-14400F RTX 4060 Gaming PCiBuyPower Y40 Intel Core i7-14700F RTX 4070 Gaming PCCyberPowerPC Gamer Supreme AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D RTX 4070 Super Gaming PCASUS ROG Intel Core i7-14700KF RTX 4070 SUPER Gaming PCASUS ROG Intel Core i7-14700F RTX 4060 Ti Gaming PCHP OMEN 35L AMD Ryzen 7 8700G RTX 4060 Ti Gaming PCFor more early Black Friday deals on gaming laptops and PCs, check out both the Dell Early Black Friday Sale and the HP Early Black Friday Sale. These computers are made-to-order and usually take longer to ship out, but the consistency in build quality and customer service makes them worth it.Black Friday Gaming Laptop DealsBest Buy has also refreshed its early Black Friday gaming laptop deals. The Acer Nitro V 15" laptop boasts an RTX 4050 GPU for a budget price of $699.99. On the other end of the spectrum, the Acer Predator Helios with a massive 18" display, powerful i9-14900HX CPU, and best-in-class RTX 4090 GPU, is available for $2,399.99. That's the best price we've seen so far for an RTX 4090 gaming laptop for Black Friday.Acer Nitro V 15" AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS RTX 4050 Gaming LaptopAcer Predator Helios 18 QHD+ Intel Core i9-14900HX RTX 4090 Gaming LaptopASUS ROG Strix 18" QHD Intel Core i9-14900HX RTX 4080 Gaming LaptopHP OMEN 16" Intel Core i7-13620H RTX 4060 Gaming LaptopHP OMEN Transcend 14" 3K OLED Intel Core Ultra 9-185H RTX 4070 Gaming LaptopAcer Predator Helios Neo 16 Intel Core i9-14900HX RTX 4060 Gaming LaptopASUS TUF 15" Intel Core i7-13620H RTX 4070 Gaming LaptopASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 16" Intel Core i7-13620H RTX 4070 Gaming LaptopASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 16" QHD+ OLED Intel Core Ultra 9 185H RTX 4090 Gaming LaptopMSI Crosshair 16" Intel Core i7-14650HX RTX 4070 Gaming LaptopBlack Friday Gaming Hardware DealsIf you're a My Best Buy Plus member, you get exclusive savings on the Asus ROG Ally Ryzen Z1 Extreme edition gaming handheld. It's currently on sale for $499.99 for everyone, but My Best Buy Plus members get an additional $50 on top, making it $449.99. This extra discount may be unlocked for non-members starting November 29. In our Asus ROG Ally review, Robert Anderson wrote that "the ROG Ally has the potential to be a serious contender against the Steam Deck. While it's not perfect, there's a lot to love about this powerful new handheld."$449.99 for My Best Buy Plus MembersAsus ROG Ally AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme 512GB Gaming HandheldPS5, PCLogitech G923 Racing Wheel and PedalsLogitech G923 Racing Wheel and PedalsBackbone One Mobile Gaming Controller (Lightning)Black Friday Sony Headphone DealsThe Sony headphone and earbud deals have started early for Black Friday. These are manufacturer discounts, so the discounted pricing should be available at other retailers if you prefer them, like Amazon, Walmart, or Target. The Sony WH-1000XM4 is the best deal here. It's current price of $199.99 is $30 cheaper than last week. Although we haven't reviewed this specific headphone, we have reviewed its XM5 successor. In our Sony WH1000XM5 review. Kevin Lee wrote that it's "hands down the best sounding and most impressive noise-cancelling headphones." Although the XM5 is also on sale, it's actually higher than last week ($299.99), so I would recommend waiting for another price drop.Should You Buy Now or Wait for Black Friday?At this point, Black Friday is only a few weeks away and in most cases it's better to wait. There are some deals here that are probably as low as they will go, even on Black Friday. However, it's very likely that the same deals you see now will also be available on November 29, even if they go out of stock.Eric Song is the IGN commerce manager in charge of finding the best gaming and tech deals every day. When Eric isn't hunting for deals for other people at work, he's hunting for deals for himself during his free time.

Our friends from Vizio are turning up the heat on the holiday season with a curated list of the hottest free action titles on WatchFree+ in November!WatchFree+ has thousands of free premium movies and shows that can be streamed on demand on VIZIO TVs, or ANYONE can enjoy titles like these and more using the VIZIO mobile app! All you need is a free VIZIO Account to start enjoying WatchFree+.Current offerings include Black Hawk Down (2001), Training Day (2001), The Crow (1994), Cloverfield (2008), Charlies Angels: Full Throttle (2003), Angels & Demons (2009), Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018), Behind Enemy Lines (2001), Behind Enemy Lines II: Axis of Evil (2006), Behind Enemy Lines: Colombia (2009), and Vampire in Brooklyn (1995).Read more at Vizio.comTo celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Terminator, Den of Geek has an exclusive reveal of two incredible new posters from Vice Press inspired by the film! This wonderful artwork was created by Florey. Sometimes the fact that the Nintendo Switch is a hybrid console and handheld works against it, such as when playing Mario & Luigi: Brothership.For the vast majority of my Switch gaming, the console stays safely ensconced in its dock by the TV, with my hands on a Pro Controller, playing it exactly like I play my PlayStation 5. On some level, I know Im Doing It Wrong by not taking advantage of the systems hybrid nature and mobility, but playing Brothershipan unlikely return to one of Nintendos best handheld franchisesreally brought that disconnect into focus.Read more at The A.V. ClubSilo showrunner Graham Yost shares how the Apple TV+ show has broadened in season 2, offering a new plot to go along with the additional setting.Season 1 was a tense, claustrophobic paranoid conspiracy drama that ended with mechanic-turned-sheriff Juliette (Rebecca Ferguson) venturing out into the wastelandNow, in Season 2, the story has fractured into two separate stories: one following Juliette as she tries to find her way home and another following the world Juliette left behind, where she has gone from leader to symbol. But this latter storyline, following an uprising in the silo, is far bigger than its counterpart.Read more at InverseLove Actually director Richard Curtis jokes that Heretic star Hugh Grant had to work harder in my movies when he was pretending to be nice.Curtis said that for over a decade, no one took any risks with Grant, but he finds it lovely that the actor has carved out a new niche for himself in the later stages of his career. The two worked together on romantic comedies like Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill and Love Actually. However, the Emmy Award-winning director said he would still like to see Grant return to the charming, rom-com roles of his earlier years.Read more at The WrapThe Boys will be ending after its upcoming fifth season, but showrunner Eric Kripke doesnt necessarily see that as a total mistake.For some, the news came as a gut punch, while others were happy that it would be bowing out peacefully, not pushing the storyline further and becoming the very thing that it has been dunking on after all these years. And, although he will be sad to see it go, series creator, Eric Kripke, seems to align more with the latter camp, certain that he doesnt want to push the show too far over the edge and disappoint the fandom in that way.Read more at Collider

By this point, the interstellar hunters known as Yautja have appeared in several movies, comics, and video games. Yet, each Predator movie follows the same basic structure: were introduced to human protagonists, we see them get killed by a mysterious force, and its not until late in the film that we finally see the ugly motherf-r in its full glory.Not so for upcoming new entry Predator: Badlands, which is seemingly changing up the usual formula. This film puts the Predator front and center, leading the charge, according to director Dan Trachtenberg in an interview with Empire.Hes still badass, but theres something there that touches you emotionally, too, Trachtenberg trased. Creating a character you connect with, but are also super-intimidated by, has been challenging. But exciting.That last part stands out, as the Predator franchise isnt historically known for the emotional depth of their main characters. The heroes of the original 1987 film worked better as hunks of American exceptionalism who get torn apart by a bigger threat than they do as people with interiority. Danny Glover finds bits of depth to his overwhelmed L.A. cop in Predator 2 (1990), but both 2010s Predators and 2018s The Predator go back to macho men spouting one-liners and sneering at one another.In fact, the only properly rich hero in the franchise thus far came from Trachtenbergs first outing in the series, Prey (2022). As played by Amber Midthunder, Comanche warrior Naru wants to prove herself to her tribe and move out from under the shadow of her brother. Her plight gets even more rich when European colonizers arrive, a sign of the battle to come.For Trachtenberg, the complexity of Preys hero meant that he had to continue pushing the franchise forward in its next entry. The director needed to find another essential piece of cinema that does what Prey did spirituallypushing the franchises boundaries, letting us root for a hero we rarely get to root forbut in a different way. And that transformed into this big idea of rooting for the Predator.With a change in focus also comes a change in setting. At this point, we still dont know much about the plot of Predator: Badlands. However, we do know that it takes place on a wasted world in the far future and will star Elle Fanning. That description might bring to mind Predators, which followed a group of human tough guys stranded on a planet used as a Yautja hunting ground. But where that film had an ensemble cast with character actors such as Walton Goggins and Mahershala Ali, Badlands will involve a pair of sisters.She faced intense challenges on this moviedramatically, physically, logistically, Trachtenberg says of his lead human. He doesnt say more, but we cant help but wonder if those challenges relate to the movies shift in focus. If the Predator is the hero here, does that mean Fanning will have to do the stuff usually done by the antagonist, ripping out spines and skinning victims?Well, probably not. But it will be exciting to see how these human sisters challenge our Yautja protagonist.Predator: Badlands releases on Nov. 7, 2025.

Immerse yourself in a world filled with mystery and darkness. Developed by Juan-Mod Studio, Shines Over: The Damned features a unique horror narrative that grips you from the start. Explore vast lands with your faithful dog, a German Shepard. Face the horror and experience a unique atmosphere.Your loyal German Shepherd is more than just a companion; it plays a crucial role in navigating the world and providing emotional depth during key moments in the story.Shines Over: The Damned is now accessible to a whole new audience, bringing its unique experience to Xbox players. Whether youre an Xbox Series X|S player or enjoying the game on Xbox One, you can dive into this immersive world November 26, and preorder today.Innovative Design Pulls you inThe art style of Shines Over: The Damned stands out for its dark and immersive atmosphere, complemented by a soundtrack that heightens the experience. Every visual element contributes to the narrative and world-building. Shines Over: The Damned has been developed with megascans technology a unique technology for hyper-realistic environments. Being an environmental game, all the environments have been made with realistic textures of elements with very high definition. This gives the game a realistic look and feel all the way through.A Game that Hits the Ground RunningSince its initial launch in March, 2024 on PlayStation 5, Shines Over: The Damned has received great reviews from around the gaming community as a pleasant surprise with a thought-provoking story. Its hard to define within a genre, and we agree with Softpedias review that Shines Over: The Damned deserves its own category. We are so excited to bring the game to Xbox and watch Xbox fans make it their next must-play Xbox title.Shines Over: The Damned is a journey you wont want to miss. This game redefines the horror experience with its rich narrative and captivating art style. Whether youre a fan of psychological thrillers, survival horror, or simply enjoy exploring rich and beautifully crafted game worlds, Shines Over: The Damned offers something for everyone. Dont wait preorder today and join the ever-growing community of players who have already been drawn into this unforgettable tale when it launches November 26.Shines Over: The DamnedFirenut Games$14.99Pre-orderShines Over: The Damned will take you into a unique experimental horror experience in first person, where your senses will be tested and your reality questioned. You have no name, no memory, no weapons. There are no friends to protect you. You are alone except for your faithful German Shepherd dog, who will guide you through this dark world and stay by your side. Immerse yourself in a mysterious and terrifying walking simulator with your faithful companion, where jump scares, tension, and environmental puzzles surround you, and danger lies in wait. Beware of the horrors that await you in Shines Over: The Damned. You have been warned

The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it comes the excitement of finding the perfect gift for the kid(s) in your life. For some, this means considering an Xboxan experience that can offer endless hours of fun, connection, creativity, and learning.But navigating the gaming world can seem daunting to some especially those that are new to gaming. From questions around online gaming communities, to regulating screen time, content appropriateness, and how to maintain safety it can feel overwhelming at times. Fortunately, Xbox makes it easy for adults to make the right choices for their families.The single most important thing you can do when setting up a new Xbox console is to select Yes when asked Will this console be used by kids?By spending just a few minutes setting up an Xbox Child Account (versus having them use your existing account), youre building a safer, more tailored experience for them and one thats right for your family (and thats easy to adjust as your little one grows up). Dont worry, you wont have to buy your games again to allow your child to play on the same console*. You will, however, have control over which of these games theyre allowed to play, how long they can play, who they can communicate with, and more.Once youve set up your Xbox console, you can keep the experience safe by downloading the Xbox Family Settings app for your Android or iOS device. This powerful tool allows you to easily tailor your childs gaming experience from anywhere, even if youre nowhere near your Xbox.Heres just some of what it can do:Screen Time Management: You can set time limits to manage how long your child can play each day. Parents (and grandparents, aunts and uncles!) tell us one of their favorite features is the ability for kids to request extra playtime, which you can easily approve or reject right from the app. You can even pause game time temporarily from the app; the perfect way to say dinners ready!Content Filters: The app allows you to tailor the content your child can access, blocking games that are too mature and ensuring they only see age-appropriate content that you approve.Purchase Limits and Approvals: Prevent unexpected purchases by approving each purchase through the ask-to-buy feature. To reward good behavior, you can easily add funds to a childs account for future purchases.Communication Controls: Decide who your child can communicate with during their gaming sessions through robust controls. You can manage your childs friend list and review incoming requests, and can restrict communication to just friends, or block it entirely.Activity Reporting: Stay informed with weekly activity reports that give you an overview of what your child is playing, how long theyve played, and any requests theyve made for additional time or new games. Pretty cool!Additionally, the Xbox Series X|S offers numerous features designed to make gaming accessible for everyone. You can find the full range of accessibility settingson Xboxs Accessibility site.Once youve curated the experience youd like your children to have, the only question is, what should you play together? Xbox Game Pass offers great value with access to hundreds of games for one monthly price, including a diverse range of family-friendly games that everyone can enjoy. From action-packed adventures to educational games, theres something for everyone; check out an updated list of titles here just click the Family & Kids box underneath Genres on the left rail or in the Game Pass area on your Xbox console.Playing games can stimulate creativity, improve hand-eye coordination, and offer a sense of achievement. They can also be a fantastic way for children to unwind and connect with friends, or be the center of your familys game night, especially in todays digital age.With the robust features built into your Xbox console and managed by the Xbox Family Settings app, you can ensure that your childs gaming experience is as safe and controlled as you need it to be.For more information about the Xbox Family Settings app, visitXbox.com/family-app.*Entitlements are shared only if child accounts are using the same console set as the Home console. More details on designating a Home console can be found here.

Overwhelmed. That was the word that came to mind the very first time David Bowen laid eyes on his familys vacation-home-to-be in central Georgia. He and his wife, Melissa, had been on the hunt for a rural property where they could gather with friends, family, and one very lucky grandchild to enjoy a slice of the simple life. I grew up hunting, fishing, and hiking on my familys farm, and Melissa and I wanted a place where we could pass those loves on to new generations, says David. They bought some land about two hours away from their hometown of Suwanee, Georgia, and were delighted when, a few years later, the house next door went up for sale. Surprisingly, I had never seen it, and there wasnt a lot of information about the property online, so I did my fair share of snooping on Google Earth before driving over, David says. When he finally arrived, he discovered a scenic long driveway, rolling fields, bosky tracts, a picture-perfect lake, andcue the screeching sounda 1980s-era rancher with a low-slung roof and so much red brick. It could not have been more at odds with its picturesque and pastoral surroundings. Knowing that the setting called for a classic Southern farmhouse, David called in for reinforcements, including Perry, Georgia-based designer James Farmer. This was a renovation that was going to take vision and a lot of work. I asked him to come down, and I laid it all outI told him, Were going to turn this thing into an old, Low Country-inspired house, and were going to do it right with a big front porch, dormer windows, a metal roof, white siding, wood floors, blue ceilingsall of it, says David. And to his credit, James said, I see where youre going with this, and I think its going to be fantastic. The goal was to create a traditional farmhouse and hunting lodgenot some stuffy antebellum mansion.With a plan in place, they took on their respective roles on the project. David concentrated on construction I know just enough about architecture to be dangerous, he saysand James took on the challenges that come with Reagan-era interior design choices (carpet in the bathrooms, a bad-linoleum galley kitchen), making way for layers of old-fashioned charm. The goal was to create a traditional farmhouse and hunting lodgenot some old, stuffy antebellum mansion, says James. Helen Norman, Floral Design by James FarmerDesigner James Farmer decked the front door out for fall with a garland using magnolia branches and other trimmings found on the property.Fortunately, James was delighted to find original heart-pine floors beneath the shag carpet and linoleum floors. He then chose paint-grade lumber to create classic Southern millwork like beadboard and shiplap throughout the house. The woodwork instantly gave it a cozier and older feel, he says. As did wallpaper, which played a large part in the overall transformation. One of James first selections was a classic toile (Royal Oak by Lewis and Wood), which he paired with painted shiplap wainscoting in the homes entry. The papers putty hue also inspired the homes overall color palette. I love what I call the un-colors, says James. Theyre not green, theyre not gray, theyre not browntheyre these hues that are beautiful because theyre a little ambiguous. Helen NormanWhen it came to furnishings, the Bowens were keen to create spaces that felt collected. Trouble was, they didnt actually have enough family heirlooms to spare for their weekend getaway. Thats where Jamess enthusiasm for antiques came in handy, with the designer layering in items like oil paintings, demijohns, and French baskets, not to mention a few of his personal possessions, including a heavy as lead console table in the living room and a family bench that David says is still on loan from the designer. And while James is passionate about patina, he is also a champion of what he calls tomorrows antiques, referring to artfully made modern- day items modeled after pieces with provenance. One example: The primitive-looking sideboard in the entry, which James says takes after an old Southern hunt board.In the end, it only took about two years of work to make the house feel a full century olderand the process was significantly less daunting than David had anticipated. Normally, remodeling is not fun. This was fun, he says. Thats the good thing about working with James. He trusted me, and I trusted him, and we got that classic Southern farmhouse we wanted all along.Keep reading below to see more of the beautiful results.Tour More Beautifully Restored Farmhouses:A Kitchen for CongregatingHelen Norman, styling by Natalie WaradyPreviously a dark galley layout with laminate cabinetry, the now open and airy kitchen was conceived with relaxation in mind. After fighting Atlanta traffic, you want a place you can put the groceries down and take a breath, says James. While he chose Carrara marble for the island, good ol Georgia heart-pine countertops line the perimeter. Melissas uncle built the cabinets (Noahs Custom Cabinets; 770-945-9824). Brass lighting adds warmth.Get the Look: Paint Color: Linen White by Benjamin MooreIsland Light Fixture: Sloane by Circa LightingRELATED: 60+ More Farmhouse Kitchen Ideas To Give Your Kitchen Charming, Timeless StyleA Relaxed Dining RoomHelen Norman, Floral Design by James FarmerA mix of black Windsor chairs and upholstered French side chairs provides a more relaxed look around English oak dining table. The open dining room is flanked by equally cozy seating areas at each end, one for TV watching, the other for conversation.Tawny Hues and Textures Helen Norman, styling by Natalie WaradyThe home, utilized for both guys hunting weekends and girls getaways, is rich with tailored neutrals. Throughout the living room, James embraced a beige grasscloth above shiplap wainscoting and rusty brown windowpane plaid fabric on the chairs and pillows. Its the perfect color of terrible tobacco, he says. Get the Look: Wallpaper:Ramie Bay by ThibautRELATED: 30+ Cozy Living Rooms Full of Decorating Ideas to Make You to Snuggle Up ForeverLayers of TextureHelen Norman, styling by Natalie Warady In the primary bedroom, another grasscloth wallcovering complements assorted checked fabrics atop the ebony black four-poster bed. Curtains of a more feminine tan and white toile fabric adds pattern and softness, while the painted V-groove wood ceiling adds age and warmth. Wallpaper: Windward Sisal in Beige by ThibautRELATED: More Wood Ceiling Ideas to Bring Your Room Country CharmCozy Guest RoomsHelen Norman, styling by Natalie WaradyA netural grasscloth wallcovering, taupe checked curtains, and pretty patterned pillows add color to the guest room. Above the woven rush headboard, a collection of baskets and farm landscape paintings combine for an unexpected gallery wall. Get the Look: Wallpaper:Costa Stripe in Gray by ThibautRELATED: 30+ Guest Bedroom Ideas to Create a Cozy and Welcoming SpaceDouble the Porch SpaceHelen NormanWhen a house has views on all sides, one porch simply wont do. Equipped with a long dining table and lots of sit-a-spell seating, the large porch along the backside of the house beckons long and lingering family gatherings.Seasonal TouchesHelen Norman, Floral Design by James FarmerCome fall, seasonal arrangements (featuring peachy Campanella and Free Spirit roses) offer an autumnal-hued alternative to mums. My mom called a peachy- apricot color Carl, like the mans name, instead of coral, says James. So Carl is my favorite fall color. Cozy layered blankets welcome those who wander up from the boathouse.RELATED: The Best Fall Porch Decor Ideas to Celebrate AutumnComplementary Outbuildings Helen Norman, styling by Natalie WaradyHelen NormanTour More Dreamy Homes:

The French have gifted us many thingsChampagne, croissants, and now, a fancy word that gives us permission to embrace the wonderfully weird in our homes: Jolie laide. If you played hooky during French class, allow us to interpret. Jolie laide (pronounced zho-lee-led) literally translates to pretty-ugly, and is the latest interior design trend taking over the internet. And while ugly might be the last word we want associated with our carefully curated homes, dont let it scare you. This isnt about collecting aesthetic disastersits about curating pieces that raise a few eyebrows, spark some conversation, and reveal your true personality. Hear us out, sil vous plat.What is jolie laide?If youve ever walked into a home so perfectly styled that it feels like no one actually lives there, the jolie laide trend is the antidote. You know that bizarre brass lamp thats absolutely ridiculous but makes you smile every time you pass it in the vintage store? Or that unsettling portrait that your mother swears is disturbing but you find utterly mesmerizing? Thats joile laide territory.Garrett RowlandThe portrait of the incredulous little girl in this bedroom designed by ELLE DECOR A-Lister Ghislaine Vias proves that this is indeed your party and you will cry if you want to. (Art: Awe by Jill Greenberg)I think it might be difficult for some people to digest but that is also the beauty of it, says New York and Palm Beachbased designer David Lucido. Every home should have pieces that make people stop, think, and start a conversation. These bring energy and personality to a space.We first heard the term from author and design expert Virginia Chamlee, who explained in an Instagram reel that ugly, in this sense, is used as a term of affectiona painting that is a little jarring, a sculpture that is maybe a little gaudy, a wooden chair that, on its own, might be a little ugly.If it makes you shudder, thats a bad sign, but if it makes you go, waithuh? that might be a good one. Chamlee tells ELLE DECOR that jolie laide is fundamentally about balance: Its really all about tempering those really pretty, precious pieces with a dose of what some might call uglyor pieces that most of us think of as unconventionally beautiful, she says. When paired with pretty things, the one ugly or weird thing becomes more attractiveand it keeps everything else in the space from looking too serious.Ori HarpazIn this Los Angeles home designed by David Lucido, a toe sculpture provides a delightfully surreal moment. I really had to push for that, he told us. I dont like when projects are too seriousyou need things like this to shake it up a bit.Christie Ward, coprincipal of Ward + Gray, agrees: Something that feels a bit off or wrong is sometimes exactly what the space needs, she tells us.But how do you know when something is so wrong its right versus just plain wrong? Chamlee offers a simple litmus test: There has to be something thats drawing you to it. If it makes you shudder, thats a bad sign, but if it makes you go, waithuh? that might be a good one. She points to historical examples like Jackson Pollocks abstract art or even Crocspieces that initially faced pushback but eventually found their place in the mainstream aesthetic.OK, is this really a thing?Joyce Huston, lead interior designer at Decorilla, has taken notice of the trend: Ive really been noticing this interesting shift lately, where more and more of my clients are embracing the quirkier, more unusual elements in their homes, she tells ELLE DECOR. Its a nice counterpoint to the very curated, magazine-ready looks that were so popular for a while. I think a lot of people are craving something with a bit more personality and soul.Not only are clients craving itbut designers are too. For designers like Ward, helping clients embrace the unconventional is part of the excitement. Creating a new world is what draws us to design, Huston says. Theres usually a more right answer for a room, but it will likely be something someones seen before. Were always trying to work in a piece that is unique to both the space and the people who visit it.And shes not the only one who loves upending some rules: Breaking the mold is what good design is all about, and incorporating unusual pieces moves the needle forward, Lucido tells us. The best spaces are the ones that feel authentic and personal.In an era of algorithm-driven design, where our social media feeds are flooded with what Chamlee calls the fifty shades of greige look, jolie laide feels like a breath of fresh air. For so long, design was about symmetry and balance, she tells us, but these days, tension and juxtaposition feel so much more fresh.Yves DriegheA lime green paint job and an aristocratic pooch painting make Jean-Philippe Demeyers living room the ultimate pretty-ugly moment.Interior designer Darlene Moinar agrees, noting that algorithmic design has made it increasingly difficult to challenge conventional choices. I think we get inundated with algorithms that push a specific, popular look, she says. That makes it difficult to challenge design choices or go outside the norm.The trend can manifest in various ways, whether its a taxidermied fish or a bold pattern combination that conventional wisdom would advise against. These are the pieces that make a space truly distinctive, even ifor perhaps becausethey challenge traditional design sensibilities. I think some of the most successful designs are ones that not everyone likes, Moinar tells us. If youre appealing to everyone, youre doing something wrong.The beauty of jolie laide lies in its deeply personal nature. Unlike the cookie-cutter aesthetics that have dominated in the past, this approach encourages genuine self-expression. Shannon Askinasi, lead interior designer at Ash & Pine Interiors, has seen this philosophy bubble up organically in her practice. Sometimes this approach gets birthed with a client simply asking to incorporate their grandmothers eclectic painting, or maybe its an avant-garde chair one of my clients purchased from a recent trip, she explains. For me, an ugly-pretty piece creates a strong jumping-off point, and both inspires and challenges me to create a unique design experience in a room.I think it changes the way we look at the world and gives you the confidence and power to believe in your own point of view.For Moinar, this isnt just another fleeting trend. I actually dont think its as much a trend as it is a deeply rooted design philosophy, she says. Its about creating spaces that tell your story, whether through that garishly gilded mirror you haggled for in a Parisian antiques shop (the one that made your partner question your taste but reminds you of that perfect spring weekend) or those mismatched dining chairs inherited from your grandmother (they're falling apart but remind you of childhood summers).Perhaps most importantly, embracing jolie laide can change your entire perspective. I think it changes the way we look at the world and gives you the confidence and power to believe in your own point of view, New York Citybased designer Ghislaine Vias says. Everyone has their own taste and sees beauty in different things. There should be no judgment.Embrace your own jolie laide moment.Ready to inject some personality into your space? Askinasi suggests starting small. Dip your toe in the water by starting out with room decor or accessories, she advises. Reconsider a family piece thats been gifted to you thats been relegated to your basement, or keep an eye out for an antique market find that elicits a reaction from you.Even [if it] freaks them out a bit, it usually ends up being the part of the room they love most.When hunting for these conversation pieces, Ward suggests looking beyond the obvious sources. Its always a good idea to use more obscure websites or visit antiques markets in person, she says. I love to dive into Live Auctioneers and try to find something really obscure that will be a statement piece. Estate sales are another goldmine for unique findstake time to see what catches your eye and consider why.Garrett RowlandThis little piggy went to the market, this little piggy stayed home, and this little table piggy, in a home designed by Ghislaine Vias? He gave us major jolie laide vibes. (Pig Table by Moooi)The key is finding pieces that spark what Chamlee calls a good WTF momentitems that might raise eyebrows but ultimately make your space more interesting and personally meaningful, whether its a crazy pillow fabric scheme or a kitschy chair. As Askinasi puts it, The goal is to create something disruptive.Also, consider wallpaper. I love when a client reacts strongly to a bold or jarring wallcoveringsomething that may seem gaudy on its own, but can actually be a powerful moment to elevate a room design, Askinasi says. Ive found if a wallpaper speaks to my clients in some way, or even freaks them out a bit, it usually ends up being the part of the room they love most.But honestly? There are no rules here. There doesnt have to be a reason for everything in your home other than that it makes you happy, Chamlee says. Buy the big weird painting. Re-cover your grandmothers couch in a fabric that might have horrified her. Lifes too short not to have a little fun while were here.Julia CancillaEngagement EditorJulia Cancilla is the engagement editor (and resident witch) at ELLE DECOR, where she manages the brands social media presence and covers trends, lifestyle, and culture in the design world. Her eye for emerging styles helps bring the latest in interior design to ELLE DECORs audience across platforms. Julia built her background at Inked magazine, where she grew their social media audiences by two million, conducted interviews with A-list celebrities, and penned feature articles focusing on pop culture, design, and lifestyle. Over her five years of digital media experience, Julia has written about numerous topics, from fashion to astrology.

Forget the occasional spa outingtheres no better way to treat yourself than by giving your far-more-frequented home bathroom a bona fide face-lift. Sure, a backsplash is fun. And of course, a few trendy touches or a luxurious tub can take your space to the next level. But the true showstopper of any well-designed bathroom is a bold and brilliant paint shade. A heavy-toned teal sets the stage for a moody space, as designer Pierre Gonalons boldly brandished in this eclectic Paris apartment. A preppy pop of high-gloss aubergine acts as an ideal backdrop for ELLE DECOR A-List designer Katie Ridders clients black-and-white photography collection in this color-drenched Manhattan remodel. Even the right neutralsee Marc Valeanus layered bathroom, awash in Farrow & Balls lilac-undertoned Dove Talecan sometimes be the furthest cry from the default flat white paint job in most bathrooms. The object of any bathroom is to feel nurtured and pampered, says designer Sara Bengur whose redo of Michael C. Halls New York City digs is the stuff of any design enthusiasts wildest color dreams. This can mean different colors for different people. Bengur says some of her clients like the idea of their primary bathroom feeling like a roomwith a rug, ottoman, decorative cabinets and antique lightingwhile others prefer a neutral-toned spa look. Before youre confronted with the full spectrum at your local paint store, its worth considering a few key factors. North-facing rooms tend to get softer, warmer light, while southern exposure brings in brighter, cooler tones. Paint finishes also affect how a color reads in a space: glossy finishes tend to deepen colors by reflecting and absorbing light, whereas eggshell or matte finishes generally keep the color true to the swatch. Bengur has just one word of warning: steer clear of the color yellow and green with a lot of yellow. "These colors are not ideal for making us look our best and brightest when looking in the mirror," she says.Are you feeling paralyzed by choice? Below, weve culled 30 0f our favorite colorful bathrooms from the ELLE DECOR archives for inspiration. Read on for bathroom paint ideas to spur on your next renovationits sure to be dripping in style.1Lulworth Blue by Farrow & BallYves DriegheBelgian designers do it their own way. If Jean-Philippe Demeyer wants a bathroom in his East Flanders manor to have a custom tub painted a shade of blue that clashes ever so slightly with the Lulworth Blue painted over the brick wall beside it, then that is whats going to happen.Buy Now2Razzle Dazzle by Benjamin MooreKirk Davis SwinehartDont adjust the brightness on your computer. Just let your eyes adjust naturally to the loudness of this wall. William Cullum paid homage to Elsa Schiaparellis trademark Shocking Pink in his Greenwich Village studio bathroom. Buy NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below3Angels Landing by Portola PaintsTrevor TondroSophia Bush is a huge fan of terracotta. So much so that the One Tree Hill star had decorator Jake Arnold paint the walls of multiple spaces of her midcentury modern home Hollywood Hillsnot just the bathroom.Buy Now4Setting Plaster by Farrow & BallPatrick BillerNude is a fitting hue for a bathroom. In the primary bathroom of an 1880s Victorian row house in Toronto, decorator Tommy Smythe opted for dusty pink to cover the walls above the Acritec soaking tub. Long live the new flesh (tone)!Buy NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below5Oriental Blue by Asian PaintsFabien CharuauBelieve it or not, this is one of the more subdued color schemes in the Mumbai apartment of Srila Chatterjee and Mahesh Mathai. This regal shade of blue contrasts perfectly with Indian brass wok and custom wall tiles are from Jaipur.Buy Now6Tea by Benjamin MooreEric PetschekHaven't you heard? Rich browns and reds are having a major moment. A warm terra-cotta hue, though, melds the best of both worlds. For this Manhattan home, designer Bachman Clem used the water closet as an opportunity to break out of the shell so painted the walls and ceiling in this sultry brick red. Buy NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below7Calamine by Farrow & Ball Richard PowersNeed a pink-me-up? If youd like to live la vie en rose on the daily, consider this flattering hue, which adds whimsy and softness to Michael C. Halls New York City apartment. A pale pink wall paint timelessly goes beyond the bold bubblegum pink that emerged from the Barbiecore craze (and, lets be honest, well before that). This particular blushing hue pairs perfectly with dark-toned accessories like an assortment of John Derian decoupage plates and trays.Shop Now8Hague Blue by Farrow & BallWilliam Waldron For a subtle take on a classic color, opt for Farrow & Balls Hague Blue, which is featured in the powder room of this homespun, old-world Lake Tahoe Retreat. In this jewel box of a space, designer Palmer Weiss says she took the governor off the design engine and let it rip. That entailed pairing the trimmed walls with poppy wallcovering (a reproduction of a 19th-century C.F.A. Voysey Arts and Crafts design by Trustworth Studios) for contrast. Shop NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below9Chantilly Lace by Benjamin MooreTREVOR TONDRO PHOTOGRAPHYThis soft hue is just as elegant as its name suggests. Described by Benjamin Moore as a classic go-to white that elicits images of fresh cotton and pure silk, this lovely hue is a graceful complement to a white-on-white scheme or, as in this rustic bathroom, a fitting counterpoint to anchoring Moroccan tiles. Shop Now10Pelt by Farrow & BallEric PiaseckiIf youre hesitant to take the color plunge, a diminutive powder room is the ideal place to experiment with bold colorand for an extra dose of glam energy, give your bathroom a high-gloss finish. In this luxe retreat, designer Katie Ridder began considering the wall art first. Our client wanted to start a collection of black-and-white photography here, she tells ELLE DECOR. So we painted the walls high-gloss deep aubergine as a backdrop for the artwork. Shop NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below11Chappell Green by Farrow & BallDouglas FriedmanGreenin all of its variationshas taken over virtually every room in the house, especially kitchens. Were equally obsessed with it in a bathroom. Here, ELLE DECOR A-List designer Ken Fulk coated the walls in his Cape Cod cottage with Farrow & Balls Chappell Green, a versatile sage tint that, per the paint company, reads blue when contrasted with warmer tones and green when paired with cooler shades.Shop Now12Skylight by Farrow & BallDaniel SchferHomeowners will obviously gravitate toward blue in bathroomswater, water, everywhere!but this hue from Farrow & Ball gives you a little bit of gray, too. The company notes that the color reads as pale blue in small spaces, while larger rooms bring out its cooler undertones. For an example, see Elad Yifrachs home in Portugal, where he used the shade in this airy primary bath. Shop NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below13Orange Coloured White by Farrow & BallWilliam Jess LairdThis tint by Farrow & Ball is precisely what it says it is: white with a dash of orange. Together, the colors make for a creamy neutral (not dissimilar to Pantones 2024 Color of the Year, Peach Fuzz) that creates an exceedingly flattering cast when youre gussying up, regardless of the hour. ELLE DECOR A-List designer Michelle R. Smith shows us how its done in her elegant New Orleans bathroom. Shop Now14Blue Gray by Farrow & BallLaure JolietWant your next bathroom makeover to give you some serious serenity? Try Farrow & Balls Blue Gray, a hue made from a little bit of black, a dollop of blue, and a dose of green. These ingredients make it an especially versatile shade, allowing it to read as a soft sage or even a duck egg, depending on the light. In the context of a soothing primary bathroom by ELLE DECOR A-List designer Frances Merrill of Reath Design, it feels like a hue plucked straight from nature. Shop NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below15Newburg Green by Benjamin Moore Haris KenjarSmall spaces such as powder rooms offer opportunities for bold design choices. Designer Anne McDonald, in this charming Minnesota lake house, painted the half bath in Benjamin Moores Newburg Green, a smoky teal shade. Depending on the light and the time of day, it can read as a deep blue or a dusty green. Shop Now16Naval by Sherwin-Williamscourtesy of Nicole FranzenNaval was named as Sherwin-Williamss 2020 Color of the Year, but obviously, this sophisticated shade has staying power. In a stylish New York apartment, design firm Le Whit used this deep, deep blue to create an enveloping, sophisticated atmosphere in the primary bathrooma feeling accentuated by a painterly wallcovering and dramatic, burgundy-colored marble. Shop NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below17Dimpse by Farrow & BallStephen Kent JohnsonDont ask us to define Dimpse. One thing we do know, however, is that it makes for a great bathroom neutral. This cool gray creates a peaceful, serene atmosphere, making it a good option for virtually every sort of space. But dont take it from us: Amanda Seyfried painted the walls in her own primary bathroom in the hue. Shop Now18Setting Plaster by Farrow & BallNicole FranzenNews flash: Pink, when used correctly, can function as the chicest neutral. One designer favorite is Farrow & Balls blushing Setting Plaster, which serves as an ultra-flattering backdrop in bedrooms, dressing rooms, and bathrooms. In the same Manhattan apartment designed by Le Whit, the color skims the walls of a half bath. Add brass fixtures, a sparkling chandelier, and a bold tiled floor andvoil!its me time perfection. Shop NowAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below19Monroe Bisque by Benjamin MooreFrank FrancesThe right neutral can make even the smallest spaces feel luxurious and serene. Take, for instance, the unabashedly classical bathroom in this Federal-style farmhouse in upstate New York. Swathed in Benjamin Moores Monroe Bisquedescribed by the brand as a rich, creamy neutral with a touch of honeythe rooms historic treasures are given a museum-worthy backdrop.Shop Now20Dove Tale by Farrow & BallTrevor TondroWhoever said the loo cant be your favorite room in the house? In the bathroom of this Parisian apartment, Marc Valeanu chose to drown out the street noise just beyond with a calming toneFarrow & Balls Dove Tale. When paired with bespoke Maurizio Scianna bathroom tiles and Charvet and Prada bathrobes, we daresay hes created a bath-lovers nirvana. Shop NowCharles CurkinArticles Editor, ELLE DecorCharles Curkin is ELLE Decor's Articles Editor, covering everything related to luxury watches, design, and travel, and has previously written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Paris Review.Rachel SilvaAssistant Digital EditorRachel Silva is the associate digital editor at ELLE DECOR, where she covers all things design, architecture, and lifestyle. She also oversees the publications feature article coverage, and is, at any moment, knee-deep in an investigation on everything from the best spa gifts to the best faux florals on the internet right now. She has more than 12 years of experience in editorial, working as a photo assignment editor at Time and acting as the president of Women in Media in NYC. She went to Columbia Journalism School, and her work has been nominated for awards from ASME, the Society of Publication Designers, and World Press Photo.

If there's one thing that every designer agrees on, it's that the kitchen is the heart of the home. It's where day-to-day life happens, from late-night homework sessions to anniversary dinners, birthday celebrations, and memorable parties. It goes without saying, then, that you want your kitchen to feel welcoming and cozy, right? And if there's one thing synonymous with soul-warming comfort, it's a fireplace."A kitchen fireplace gives this old-world charm that draws in the familyand guests too," says Louise Copeland, founder of L.B. Copeland Interior Design. "Its the perfect spot to gather, share stories, and relax in the warmth. Its not just functional; it turns the kitchen into the true heart of the home, a cozy spot where everyone feels welcome to hang out."Originally placed in kitchens for utilitarian purposes, most homes no longer rely on an enormous fireplace to cook their daily meals or provide warmthbut that doesn't mean that it's not a welcome addition to the space. From historic homes that hold relics of years past to newer builds looking to add charm and comfort, a kitchen fireplace can instantly up the cozy factor in your cook space, inviting diners to linger longer and helping the room flex between functionality and ambiance.Looking to stoke the flames of inspiration? Below, we're rounding up 15 gorgeous kitchen fireplace ideas, straight from the industry's top pros. Our takeaway? Nothing burns brighter than a home thoughtfully designed for cozy comfort.More cozy design inspiration:1Add Subtle Seating Adam Kane MacchiaTo make it easier for your sous chef to take a load off after all that slicing and dicing, style a small seating area near your kitchen fireplace so they can take a load off while keeping an eye on the stove. In the kitchen fireplace idea in quaint farmhouse by LB Copeland Interior Design, two petite stools offer a front-row seat to the action. 2Fill It With FirewoodLizzie OrmeIf you find yourself with a nonfunctional fireplace in the kitchen, don't fret. The focal point can still be a great way to add visual interest and texture to your room. Instead of leaving it empty, consider piling it high with firewood, a selection of plants, or another creative addition (like books!). Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Choose a Bold SurroundAndreas von Einsiedel//Getty ImagesRemember, your fireplace has a lot to compete with in your kitchen, from upper cabinetry and appliances to a gorgeous tile backsplash. To make sure it doesn't get lost in the shuffle, opt for a prominent mantel or firebox surround, like the antique stone design seen in this kitchen fireplace idea.4Select a Complementary StyleHearst Magazines UKIf a kitchen fireplace isn't original to your home, you want to be careful when selecting the size, location, and type of feature you add to your room. To ensure a natural fit, do a bit of research into what type of fireplace coordinates best with the architecture and age of your home, whether that's a brick beehive-style oven or a Colonial-inspired, cast-iron wood stove.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Echo the Shape Throughout Your SpaceCourtesy of deVOLTo further integrate your fireplace into your kitchen, echo elements of its design in the rest of your room, whether in the shape of the crown molding or the cabinet doors. In this stunning kitchen, designed by Banjo Beale and the team at deVOL, the curved arch of the fireplace opening is repeated on either side of the hearth for satisfying symmetry. Related Story: 16 Crown Molding Ideas That Add Architectural Character6Coordinate Your ColorsJane BeilesIn many cases, a kitchen fireplace idea will utilize natural materials and texturesmost of which come in shades of gray and brownso it'll be up to the rest of your space to marry those hues with the overall color palette. In this elegant cook space by architect Matthew R. Dougherty, a stone-clad surround melds perfectly with veiny gray marble and a metal range hood. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Make It MinimalisticTom Merton//Getty ImagesDoes your kitchen boast epic sightlines, either into the rest of your home or the great outdoors? Avoid adding visual congestion to your space by selecting a fireplace that whispers instead of yells. In this home, a floating midcentury moderninspired fireplace leaves plenty of room to enjoy the surrounding greenery.8Stray From TraditionCourtesy of deVOLYou shouldn't feel beholden to traditional design standards when deciding what your kitchen fireplace idea looks like. Think of the unusual placement as an opportunity to go bold with a tile surround or coat in a chic color, like the flowery pink seen here in a deVOL-designed kitchen.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Create the Best Seat in the HouseStephen Kent JohnsonYou know the feeling when you walk into a cozy restaurant, get seated by the room's roaring fireplace, and immediately feel like you scored the best seat in the house? Pretty great, right? Emulate that experience in your own home by placing your dining table and chairs near your hearth. Even if you're just unboxing takeout, it'll still feel like a Michelin-star experience. 10Mind the GapMichael J. LeeWhen designing a functional and effective cook space, there are a few general guidelines to keep in mind. One of the most important? Maintaining wide-enough walkways throughout the space, including around your kitchen island. Make the gap too snug, and you could be forced to shuffle around fellow cooks while juggling hot pansa recipe for disaster. If you're working with an already snug space, choose a kitchen fireplace idea that has a slim mantel projection off the wall. In this room by Carpenter & MacNeille, a barely there surround of wood and brick still brings plenty of charm to the space. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11Share the LoveMichael J LeeGetting the opportunity to do a full kitchen renovation is exciting, especially considering it allows you the chance to include all sorts of extras, likeyou guessed ita fireplace. To make the most of the work (and money) the addition will entail, consider a see-through fixture that allows the room beyond to show through. In this charming home by KT2 Design Group, a multifunctional firebox shows love to both the kitchen and nearby living room, thanks to a dual-sided interior. 12Set It to the SideLaura Muthesius & Nora Eisermann for Our Food StoriesLet's be honest, there's a lot happening in the kitchen, and the addition of a fireplace might not be something you want to battle with among all the other appliances, cabinets, and pieces of furniture. Instead of putting it center stage, try adding a fireplace to the side of your kitchen, as seen here in a project by Laura Muthesius and Nora Eisermann of Our Food Stories. The resulting kitchen fireplace idea still brings that cozy factor, just without the congestion. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Level It UpWerner SegarraYou spend most of your time in the kitchen on your feet, staring at things that are counter height, whether that's the food you're prepping on your actual counter or a nearby stove. The point is, if your fireplace is ground-level, you risk missing out on the relaxing vibes it can impart. To remedy this, consider raising your fireplace to counter heightlike the stone design seen here in a project by David Michael Miller Design and Oz Architectsto bring the flames front and center. 14Put It Next to the Real DealZeke RuelasOne surefire way to seamlessly blend your kitchen fireplace into the rest of the room? By positioning it next to your stove. The two will have natural synergy, and the common-sense location will lend the impression that the fireplace was a historical feature of a bygone era in your homeeven if it wasn't. In this home by Rosa Beltran Design, a rustic brick design adds grit and a sense of history to the surrounding all-white cook space. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15When in Doubt, Add a StoveCourtesy of deVOLStumped on how to use the shell of a former fireplace in your kitchen? When in doubt, use it to house your cooktop. Stove alcoves are having a moment in design right now, and this creative reinvention offers a seamless, low-effort way to achieve the look. In this space by deVOL, an antique stone fireplace and surround act as the main stage for cooking up cozy winter meals.

Zurich-based venture capital firm Founderful has raised $140mn in its second fund $20mn more than its target and a strong sign of investor confidence in Switzerlands flourishing tech ecosystem.First announced back in February, the fund has already invested in 15 early-stage startups. These include Chiral Nano, which develops nanomaterials for silicon chips, and 8inks, which is rejigging the lithium-ion battery.Founderful formerly Wingman Ventures was launched in 2019 by Pascal Mathis, the co-founder of local travel marketplace unicorn GetYourGuide, Eat.ch co-founder Lukas Weder and Alex Stckl, former exec at Creathor Ventures.The founder-led VC exclusively backs Swiss startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Its vision? To transform budding Swiss ventures into global industry leaders.The of EU techThe latest rumblings from the EU tech scene, a story from our wise ol' founder Boris, and some questionable AI art. It's free, every week, in your inbox. Sign up now!From day one, we have been relentless in our efforts to create a foothold for the Swiss tech ecosystem on the global stage, said Stckl, partner at Founderful.Fund II is evidence that we have walked the talk, and investors have taken note. This was no easy win, but we fought hard.Founderfuls new Fund II is backed by a range of institutions, family offices, and founders from unicorns such as Duolingo, Climeworks, Proton, and Scandit.Silicon alps?Stckl called the Swiss tech ecosystem a powerhouse thats only just starting to claim its place on the global stage. The Alphine nation has the highest number of unicorn companies per capita in Europe and has ranked first in the Global Innovation Index for13 years in a row.But perhaps the Swiss tech ecosystems biggest asset is its universities and research institutions. ETH Zurich, for one, now produces more university spin-outs than any other university in Europe. We profiled one of these companies, Oxyle, earlier this year in an in-depth piece about PFAS, commonly known as forever chemicals. Led by Dr. Fajer Mushtaq, Oxyle has developed a reactor that mineralises these cancer-causing compounds, breaking apart their carbon-fluorine bonds.Founderful led Oxyles pre-seed investment in 2022 under its first $90mn fund, which has since been fully deployed across 40 startups.The VC claims that these portfolio companies have since created over 1,100 jobs and secured more than $450 million in follow-on funding. Notable successes include Ethon AI, which helps factories like the Lindt chocolate factory save waste, and plastic recycling startup DePoly.Severin Hacker, CTO and co-founder at Duolingo and investor in Founderfuls Fund II called the up-and-coming VC meticulous and relentless in creating value for the founders it backs.Their approach, combined with the unfolding potential of the Swiss tech ecosystem, probably makes them one of Europes most promising VC firms, said Hacker. Story by Sin Geschwindt Sin is a climate and energy reporter at TNW. From nuclear fusion to escooters, he covers the length and breadth of Europe's clean tech ecos (show all) Sin is a climate and energy reporter at TNW. From nuclear fusion to escooters, he covers the length and breadth of Europe's clean tech ecosystem. He's happiest sourcing a scoop, investigating the impact of emerging technologies, and even putting them to the test. Sin has five years journalism experience and holds a dual degree in media and environmental science from the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Get the TNW newsletterGet the most important tech news in your inbox each week.Also tagged with