Here's what we looked at this week:LG develops a stretchable display that can follow compound curves.Material science + fear-based marketing: The Armor-Tex is a stab-proof jacket. Nike showed off their 3D-printed Air Max 1000s.Industrial Design student work: Maoxin Yuan's therapeutic eyewear.Transportation designer Alan Derosier got the chance to turn his Xmas card concept sketch into a real electric motorcycle, the Rocket One.Accessories for your sneakers, courtesy of Adidas and AvAvAv.Industrial Design student work: The multiple-award-winning Community Gravestones project, by Cameron Brentlinger of Pratt Institute.This eBarrow Kit, an easily retrofittable electric-powered wheelbarrow wheel, was invented by a medical device expert.Peak Design's Tech Pouch: An organizing bag with better UX. Sadly it's now being knocked off by design pirates.Subversive design: The Robin Clip was designed to let you sneak an Apple Watch Into competitions.A modernist coffee grinder designed with obsessive attention to UX.A new furniture category: Bateman Labs' modular armchair-based workstations / gaming stations.Objects to satisfy the "slow life" desire for cozy: Rolife's miniature reading nooks.Harley-Davidson's LiveWire to release designey electric scooters.Base Case: A portable dual-monitor set-up in a luggage form factor.To celebrate their 50th anniversary, Casio is releasing these functional ring-sized watches.This cordless C1 Ultrasonic Cutter is like a power X-acto knife.Industrial design case study: The PureTorque training aid, by industrial design firm The Metcalfe Group.

"An elite physical trainer came to us with a prototype of what would become the PureTorque, a scientifically proven tool for more effectively targeting the muscles in your torso," writes industrial design firm The Metcalfe Group. "We were able to refine his original idea to create something that was light, easy to use, strong, visually compelling, and, most importantly, incredibly effective." Early prototypes removed mass from the inventor's prototype and focused how the device should be held and contact the body. This prototype sought to replicate the final materials for the pads and was adjustable to make sure we got the size, shape, and ergonomics just right. Once this was approved through testing with users, we 3D scanned the prototype for use in the next phase. Once the function and ergonomics were worked out, we created concepts to explore aesthetics and manufacturing methods. These started with hand sketches then were developed further in CAD iterations. In order to keep the device as light as possible while ensuring it was robust enough to handle the toughest workouts from professional athletes, we ran numerous finite element analysis (FEA) simulations that tested its strength digitally. This allowed us to iterate quickly and fix any potential trouble spots before moving to more expensive and time intensive CNC prototypes and production tooling. EMG testing (used to measure muscle activity) was done using a CNC machined prototype to measure the PureTorque's effectiveness. These scientific tests showed a 40%-75% increase in utilization of core muscle groups, leading to a more effective workout. After the design was thoroughly vetted, we moved to production using die-cast aluminum. The Metcalfe Group was relied on to take the product all the way from sketches and rough prototypes through manufacturing sourcing.Tyreek Hill, one of the fastest players in NFL, endorsed the product, saying "The very first moment I used PureTorque I thought, 'Damn, this thing is different.' I have been hooked ever since." You can see more of The Metcalfe Group's work here.

This week, Google unveiled its first mass timber office building in Sunnyvale, California. It is designed to be a cutting-edge and eco-friendly building that will serve as a productive and conducive workspace for the employees. It was designed, keeping in mind the needs and requirements of the environment and employees. It is a five-story structure that will have 96% less carbon emissions than a traditional steel and concrete building of the same size.This building, 1265 Borregas, showcases creating sustainable buildings that empower people to do their best work, said Michelle Kaufmann, Googles director of R+D for the Built Environment and the guiding force behind the creation of the new workspace in Sunnyvales Moffett Park district.Designer: GoogleAs mentioned, it is the first building to be constructed from mass timber, which is a new type of engineered wood. Small pieces of wood are layered and laminated together to build large beams and walls. The office is designed to create an environment of collaboration, support, and focus. It is equipped with neighborhood spaces that will facilitate hybrid connections and interesting collaborations.It is a representation of Googles priority to build nature-based or biophilic workplaces. According to research, people work best when surrounded by nature, and with this new workspace, Google is hoping to create a fresh and inspiring work environment. Timber is exposed inside and outside the office, which allows natural light to stream in while offering splendid views of the Northern California landscape. Automatic wooden blinds have been integrated, and they adapt to the suns position, minimizing glare.Mass timber is blessed with regenerative qualities, as it can absorb and store carbon over time. Hence, choosing mass timber was a sustainable and eco-friendly decision made by Google. It also reduces carbon emissions that are emitted from the extraction, production, and transportation of traditional building materials. Additionally, 100% of the structural mass timber lumber used to build 1265 Borregas was sourced from responsibly managed forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).Around three acres of pollinator-friendly native plants, such as coast live oak, California wild rose, and common milkweed,d were planted at the site and its neighboring sites. This further encourages the creation of an office building and site that is sustainable and efficient. The widespread presence of greenery helps to improve employee wellbeing, ensuring they focus and work better.The post Google Unveils Its First Mass Timber Building That Looks After The Environment & Employees first appeared on Yanko Design.

When Apple introduced the nano-texture display option, it revolutionized how creators like me interacted with their most crucial tool. Lets face it, we look at the display on the laptop 100% of the time we use it, so it needs to be as perfect as humanly possible. Until now, despite countless improvements from Apple and others, no display has truly nailed the combination of resolution, quality, accuracy, and glare reduction. This is the first time it genuinely feels like everything has come together perfectly. As someone who frequently battles glare while simultaneously demanding the ideal combination of portability and power, I wholeheartedly believe that the MacBook Pro 14-inch, equipped with the formidable M4 Pro chip, represents a significant improvement that fully satisfies all my creative demands.Designer: AppleThe Glare-Killing Game Changer:How Does Nano-Texture Technology Work?The magic lies in microscopic etchings that break down light waves. Instead of applying a coating that dulls the display, Apple precisely alters the glass surface itself. These nanometer-scale etchings scatter ambient light while attempting to maintain the displays inherent color accuracy and contrast.The nano-texture display, a $150 upgrade, felt like a luxury at firstuntil I used it for the first time today. Working outdoors, on airplanes, in cars, or any bright environment is now effortless. Previously, my 16-inch M1 Max MacBook Pro would glare so much under sunlight that Id have to squint or move indoors. Now, with the nano-texture display, direct sunlight feels irrelevant. I placed both laptops side-by-side during my testing, and the difference was immediate. The nano-texture display stood out, turning a frustrating glare-filled workspace into a productive one.Apples nano-texture technology effectively reduces glareits the closest thing to a paper-like feel Ive experienced on a laptop screen, offering a unique viewing experience akin to a printed photograph. The etched surface scatters light evenly, making it comfortable to look at for long hours without that usual agony of dealing with glare. The crisp colors and contrast are still intact, which is crucial for my work. The nano-texture display also gives me a genuine sense of immersiveness, drawing me in without distraction, which is particularly beneficial for long sessions of writing, editing images, and videos. Whether Im writing or editing images or videos, the screen performs seamlessly, with wide viewing angles and consistent quality, regardless of lighting conditions.Performance Characteristics and Viewing Experience:Glare Reduction: Exceptional, with near-complete elimination of reflections in diverse lighting conditions.Color Preservation: Slightly reduced color vibrancy compared to glossy displays but maintains remarkable consistency across different environments.It feels like viewing a printed photographMaintains readability in bright sunlightProvides consistent visual performance from multiple anglesNano-texture is specifically designed for the following professional use cases:Photographers and visual artistsProfessionals working in variable lighting environmentsCreators who prioritize consistent display performance over peak color saturationPortability Without Performance CompromiseFor someone who is always on the move, the weight of my gear matters as much as its performance. The M4 14-inch MacBook Pro is incredibly light at 3.5 pounds compared to the 16-inch, which is heftier at 4.7 pounds and almost on par with the 15-inch MacBook Air M3, which weighs 3.3 pounds. This reduction might not sound significant on paper, but its transformative in daily useespecially when carrying other essentials.The smaller display size could seem limiting, but it works perfectly for my needs in real-world use. As an editor and journalist who runs multiple tasks simultaneouslyoften including working in tight spaces like cafs or planesthe compact form factor fits seamlessly into my workflow without feeling like a compromise. As a one-bag packer, the smaller M4 MacBook Pro fits easily into my backpack, allowing me to travel light without sacrificing capability.Performance: Effortless EfficiencyApple Silicon has spoiled me with its reliability. The M4 Pro chip continues the tradition of handling demanding tasks without hiccups. Whether Im editing a 4K video, running multiple content creation applications, or using a native AI app to transcribe audio to text, the performance is seamless. Efficiency isnt just about speedits about working without worrying if my machine can keep up.Whats most surprising is how quiet it remains, even under heavy loads. Ive been extremely spoiled by the noiseless MacBook Air, thanks to its fanless architecture, so this is a welcome feature during late-night writing sessions or when working in quieter environments. Nano-Texture: The Heart of the UpgradeThis display technology presents the perfect opportunity to upgradeat this very moment. The nano-texture screen significantly reduced reflections, transforming how I work in mixed lighting conditions. My work remains vibrant and clear in a sunlit office, where glare usually dominates. At the same time, in dimly lit offices, the contrast and color accuracy stay sharp. It feels like the display adapts to me rather than vice versa.For those already using an M1 Max MacBook Pro, the move to the M4 Pro might feel incremental on paper. But for me, its the culmination of subtle refinements: the nano-texture display, compactness of the 14-inch form factor, and even more efficient performance. These changes align perfectly with all my daily needs. Its about having reliable tools that enhance my workflow and make my day-to-day tasks more efficient.The M4 14-inch MacBook Pro is a reliable and essential part of how I create, edit, and collaborate every day. This is just a rough hands-on, and the full review is forthcoming. I have a trip to Japan, China, and then Dubai in the next few weeks back to back, and I cant wait to put it through real-world tests. Starting at $1,999, with the nano-texture display option adding $150, its an investment that feels justified every time I power it on. For anyone who demand the best from their gear, this MacBook Pro delivers an experience worth every dollar.The post Hands-On with Nano-Texture Display: Why the M4 Pro Chip Makes the MacBook Pro the Best Laptop Yet first appeared on Yanko Design.

Simplicity meets sophistication in this modern oasisdesigned by Artimitro Architects. The understated color palette conveys a sense of calm. But there are interesting accent features (including carefully chosen textures) that make sure is as visually appealing as it gets! Wed like to call this the design secret in the spacewhere less really is more.The living space and kitchen are tied together with dark wooden flooring. A modular tufted lounge sofain opulent black leathercreates a statement in the living area. This is paired with the smart use of texture through the grid-patterned tile on the wall.The kitchen features black leather bar stools next to the island as well as sleek black cabinetry. A punch of blue behind the sink really brings the space to life!The chequered rug sets an interesting base in this bedroom. This is complemented by a simple bedwith a luxurious marble headboard. The minimalist floating nightstands are stunning but also help the room appear more open. Finally, the dark wall behind the bed with a glass partition adds some drama to the space.This bedroom features a minimalist bed frame and a single floating nightstand, which adds a sense of asymmetry. The glass wardrobe adds openness to the room. We also see a modern workstation set up right next to the windowand a huge potted plant!The stand-out feature in this bathroom is the illuminated pedestal sink. The minimalist fixtures and marble flooring keep things sophisticated.Were huge fans of the textured marble wall panels in this bathroom. They add luxury, sure, but they also have a unique finish. The matte black freestanding tub and built-in basin add some bold color. The tub and vanity are both wall-mountedfreeing up floorspace in this small room.

"It was a very weird time," says Gabe Newell. "I don't think people understand how many times we would go to people and say, 'No, you will be able to distribute software over the internet' and have people say, 'No, it will never happen.'""It was a very weird time."

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