Brian Singerman said on Tuesday that he's stepping down as a general partner of Founders Fund after 13 years.

The second season of the political thriller The Diplomat on Netflix is a natural follow-up to the explosive finale of season one. Framestore produced all the visual effects for the gripping continuation of Kate Wylers story, blending high artistry with the highest stakes of the show.Led by VFX Supervisor John Kilshaw, On-Set VFX Supervisor Pedro Sabrosa, and Comp Supervisor Illia Afanasiev, the team delivered a great range of effects that remains firmly rooted in reality, from invisible VFX and season changes to crowd duplication, a CG plane, FX fireworks and greenscreen work. This all enhances the story while augmenting the performances of the cast.This attention to detail would make sure that the visuals would be as faithful as possible to the series tone, adding depth and immersion to the world of The Diplomat. Framestore shows that they can bring gorgeous visuals into a story seamlessly while enriching the viewing experience of the audience.The post Framestore Unveils VFX Breakdown for The Diplomat Season 2 appeared first on Vfxexpress.

Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) takes fans behind the scenes of Deadpool & Wolverine, showcasing the incredible visual effects that bring this iconic duo to life. Directed by Shawn Levy, the film combines sharp claws and fourth-wall-breaking humor, with ILMs artistry playing a pivotal role in creating its unique visual style.ILM Visual Effects Supervisor Vincent Papaix and Associate Supervisor Georg Kaltenbrunner led the VFX team in collaboration with Animation Supervisor Alexander Poei to deliver dynamic action sequences and seamless character integration into the world. Visual Effects Producers Josiane Fradette and Russell Lum supported the meticulous planning and execution, with additional oversight by Production VFX Supervisor Swen Gilbert and Producer Lisa Marra.It includes the madcap antics of Deadpool to Wolverines raw power. Here, ILMs team has done everything to heighten the effect, raising storytelling to great heights. That teamwork goes further because the result is a beauty by master editor Chris Hawkinson: full of action, humor, intensity, and a blend to every frame. The post Behind the Magic: The Visual Effects of Deadpool & Wolverine appeared first on Vfxexpress.

In 2016, when Twitter replaced its purely chronological timeline with one that used an algorithm to determine what users saw, I declared it to be a minor whoop at mosta 2.35 on a scale of 1 to 10. Maybe I was too serene about the change, which theoretically helped people see worthwhile tweets that they might otherwise have missed. But I dont blame myself for failing to anticipate that Elon Musk would someday buy the service and twiddle its algorithmic knobs to suit his purposes, from boosting his own hate- and hoax-laden tweets to throttling ones that include links to unimportant stuff such as, you know, news.Today, if you find your Twitter default feed to be filled with awfulness, theres an easy explanation: It may still be called For You, but its really For Elon.Over on Metas Threads, the experience is so Twitter-esque that its default feed is also an algorithmically arranged view called For You. Instead of toxicity being the problem, however, its placidity.Launched in the wake of Musks Twitter takeover, Threads got huge fast by letting users sign in with their existing Instagram accounts. It also seemed to aim for an atmosphere that was akin to Instagram at its bestcalming, convivial, and decidedly uncontroversial. Head honcho Adam Mosseri was frank about the services desire to de-emphasize news and politics, seeing them as baggage for a new social network to avoid rather than selling points to embrace.But while Threads has racked up an impressive 275 million monthly users, the hottest refuge for Twitter defectors is now Bluesky. At the end of October, the social-networking startupa spin-off of Jack Dorsey-era Twitterhad about 13 million members. Since the U.S. presidential election, its surged past 24 million users, welcoming throngs of newbies who do like to talk about current events, just not on a social network operated by Donald Trumps new best friend.Meanwhile, election night revealed the downside of Threadss willfully news-adverse algorithm. It chose to display stale items posted before polls closed and it was clear Trump had won, including some posts that were irrelevant at best and (if you were rooting for Kamala Harris) possibly heartbreaking at worst.Like all tech giants, Meta does its best work when it faces actual competition. In recent weeks, Threads has gotten a sudden infusion of new features, many of which seem inspired by Blueskys sudden boom. Its also tweaked its algorithm to show more posts from people youre following rather than random interlopers you arent, which should theoretically improve relevance all by itself.At least for me, though, these renovations havent resulted in a noticeably timelier For You feed on Threads. Mine still has a whiff of day-old newspaper to it: On Tuesday morning, for example, it was devoid of anything related to the political drama in South Korea.Meta might yet teach its AI to more consistently show the right posts at the right time. Still, theres a bigger lesson it could learn from Bluesky, though it might be an uncomfortable one for a tech giant to confront. Its that introducing algorithms into a social feed may cause more problems than it solvesat least if timeliness matters, as it does with any service that aspires to scoop up disaffected Twitter users. For a modern social network, Bluesky stays out of your way to a shocking degree. (So does Mastodon; Im a fan, but it seems to be more of an acquired taste.) Blueskys primary view is Followingthe most recent posts from the people you choose to follow, just as in the golden age of Twitter. (Present-day Twitter and Threads have equivalent views, but not as their defaults.) Starter Packs, which might be Blueskys defining feature, let anyone curate a shareable list of users. You can follow everyone in one with a single click, or pick and choose, but either way, you decide.Now, Bluesky does have some algorithmic aspects. The Discover tab, which shows posts from people you dont follow, is a rough equivalent of the For You feeds on Twitter and Threads. Popular With Friends is exactly what it sounds like. But these views are secondary. Theyll live or die based on whether they provide any value, not because theyre the first thing you see when you open the app. So will any third-party algorithms that anyone constructs using Blueskys open architecture.The power of a reverse-chronological feed of posts from people you select yourself has always been obvious. It makes a social network feel personal, vibrant, and real. Thats why 2016-era Twitter users got freaked out about the prospect of change even before the company imposed an algorithm on the process.Bluesky confirms the virtue of using algorithms sparingly all over again. Its current growth spurt is heartening evidence that getting back to basics might even be good business. Musks Twitter may be beyond repair, but if everyone else in social networking takes notice, we can only benefit. Even as we speak, Threads is reportedly getting ready to introduce its own version of Starter Packs. Bring them on, I sayalong with anything else about Blueskys delightfully human-centric nature that Meta cares to copy.Read/Watch/Listen/TryThe craft of Craft. If someone asked me to provide three examples of iPad apps that truly show off what a developer can do with Apples tablet, the note-taking app Craft would be one of them. (So would Procreate, and Im not sure about the third one.) The latest version, Craft 3, is out now. Its a wonderfully feature-rich product whose new featuresin domains from task management to fancy formattingmake it a viable alternative to Notion. But Crafts overall polish and the balletic grace with which it incorporates elements such as drag-and-drop go far beyond Notions merely workmanlike experience. The Verges David Pierce has a full review; one of his favorite new featuresa quick-add button that lets you instantly start typing away and even leave text pinned to the bottom of the screen until you decide what to do with itisnt yet available on the iPad. But Crafts developer tells me its on the way. (The app is also available for iOS, MacOS, and Windows.)A tech reading list. Speaking of The Verge, I enjoyed this list of the best nonfiction tech books of all time, as chosen by its staffersnot because its picks match mine, but because theyre almost completely different, including many tomes I havent read (yet). Come back to this newsletter next week, and Ill tell you about some of my favorites.Youve been reading Plugged In,Fast Companys weekly tech newsletter from me, global technology editor Harry McCracken. If a friend or colleague forwarded this edition to youor if youre reading it on FastCompany.comyou cancheck out previous issues and sign up to get it yourself every Wednesday morning. I love hearing from you: Ping me athmccracken@fastcompany.comwith your feedback and ideas for future newsletters.More top tech stories from Fast CompanyHow LinkedIn opened the door to AI slopOver 50% of long-form LinkedIn posts are likely AI-assisted. The proof is in your feed.Read MoreThe Mr Beast of Jails: This influencer is bailing people out of jail for contentIn a video posted to his YouTube channel, the creator cduerk bailed 10 strangers out of jail and loaded them on to a party bus.Read MoreHeres how 2 European search upstarts aim to go after Googlefrom the index upThe European Search Perspective project faces serious obstacles, but the U.S. governments proposed search-antitrust settlement with Google could lend it a hand.Read MoreJaguars new EV is as wild as its new logoJaguars new concept car, Type 00, comes after the British automakers controversial rebrand. The car could be just as polarizing.Read MoreAirlines redesigned the way you choose your seatand raked in $12.4 billion in the processA new Senate report accuses airlines of using dark patterns to upsell customers.Read More7 surprisingly practical ways to use ChatGPTs free voice wizardAdvanced Voice Mode can help you practice languages, practice a presentation, and much more.Read More

Welcome toPressing Questions,Fast Companys work-life advice column. Every week, deputy editor Kathleen Davis, host ofThe New Way We Workpodcast, will answer the biggest and most pressing workplace questions.Q: How can I be happier?A: This is the ultimate billion-dollar question. Its right up there with what is the meaning of life? Of course that means there is no easy answer or quick fix. Happiness, like all emotions, is complex. Also like all emotions, it can also be fleeting. No one, not even the most optimistic person, is happy all the time. But there are a few things you can do to cultivate more moments of happiness in your daily life:Think about what you loved as a kidEven if you dont have kids or didnt have a particularly happy childhood, there is still value in thinking about the activities you loved before the concerns of adult life took over. Arts and crafts, sports, aimless bike rides, reading for pleasure, building with Legosso many of the things that make up childhood are just pure fun, without expectation. If it brought you joy in a time when you focused on what you liked to doinstead of what you should dochances are it can still bring you joy.This is different than taking a class or taking up a new hobby (both of which are also good for happiness and can make you better at your job). This is about doing something just for the sake of enjoyment without expectation. Its also freeing to be a little ridiculous and let go of whats appropriate. After all, no one can see you making Play-Doh creations while drinking wine at home.Address regret and be more compassionate with yourselfRuminating about a mistake or a wrong choice is a surefire way to nurture unhappiness. Regret can become a habit, saysDinorah Nieves, author of Love You: 12 Ways to Be Who You Love & Love Who You Are. But you can dilute feelings of regret, she says, if you can instead reframe the decisions you madelooking at why you made them and learning from themand treat yourself with compassion.You can also reframe things by treating yourself like you would treat a friend or colleague who came to you with a problem. We often speak to ourselves in a much harsher and more judgmental way than we speak to others.Pause to notice whats good in lifeHuman brains have a negativity bias, which means all the bad stuff looms larger in our minds, even if we dont want it to. And lets be honest, theres no shortage of bad stuff in the world right now. But even in the crappiest days there are good things, too. Happy people dont necessarily have better lives, but they do pay more attention to the good things in life. The advice to stop and smell the roses is cringe and it certainly wont change your life, but its a clich for a reason. Slowing down and refocusing your brain on a nice moment, a bit of praise, or a good meal can start to reframe your thinkingat least in small doses.My family sometimes does roses and thorns at dinner: The rose is the best thing that happened that day, and the thorn is the worst. Complaining can be therapeutic, and the thorn is usually easy to come up with, but forcing yourself to find a rose even on a bad day can help too, even if only a little.Heres some more advice on happiness:Yes, you can train yourself to be happierjust be aware of the downsidesEverything you know about happiness is a lie. This is the secret to getting the new happy6 ways to be happier at work, according to expertsHow to be happier, according to science

A dark grey roof shaped like an armadillo's shell peeks out behind a row of terraced houses on Station Lodge, a home in southwest London designed by local architectural studio Lacey & Salkytov.Named after its location overlooking Motspur Park station in Merton, the house was built for co-founder Andrei Salkytov's own family and has been "future-proofed" with a design that will allow it to be divided up in the future.Lacey & Salkytov has completed Station Lodge in southwest LondonTwice as big as neighbouring properties, with a total floor space of 241 square metres, the architect designed the house to follow the geometry of its triangular-shaped plot formerly a row of old garages.Its atrium-like living area has been positioned at the front of the site, while the bedrooms and roof terraces look out over the railway line behind. These were clad with dark exterior walls to conceal the dust from passing trains and reduce maintenance.The roof is shaped like an armadillo shellAccording to Salkytov, the intent was to create a communal space that was as "visually striking as possible" and compensate for the loss of an incredible view from the family's living room in their old house."The outside of the house doesn't reveal much", said Salkytov. "But inside the main space is extraordinary. While the house is enormous it still feels domestic, and it doesn't overwhelm."The house has an atrium-like living area with a libraryThe triple-height living room is covered with an angled metal roof made of standing seam metal, which sails over both the first-floor bedrooms and a home office on the second floor that opens out onto a sundeck.When seen from inside, the roof's shell structure is exposed revealing its "complex" geometry and its Douglas fir and steel construction, designed in collaboration with London structural engineers Foster Structures.Read: Polysmiths adds Mediterranean texture to Arch House in LondonThe living area also features a "continuous" library running around the walls and a utilitarian red staircase that leads to the bedrooms on the first floor. These have been designed with heavy block-work and oblique windows to reduce noise from the train line.The nearby railway has been referenced in other areas of the design, with reclaimed wooden sleepers repurposed as driveway paving and tree planters in the front garden. Pre-fabricated concrete panels from the old garages on site were also reused to build a new fence along the railway edge.The utilitarian red staircase leads to the first-floor bedroomsAlongside the roof-level office space is another living area with access to a south-facing terrace guarded by a wolf sculpture made of recycled materials, by local artist Kevin Herlihy. In addition to an external dining deck, there are two small concealed rear gardens, one for adults and one for children.The bedrooms designed for Salkytov's two daughters are identical creating a more "equitable" arrangement than their old house where the rooms were different shapes and sizes. There is also more room for them to study and a "snug" for their friends to come over and visit.The roof's shell structure is exposed on the insideWith one eye on the future, the architect has "future-proofed" the house with services such as plumbing and drainage points included for two separate houses. Foundations have already been put in place for a second staircase.This means one day it can be divided up into two separate homes either for his daughters to live in, or should the family decide to sell up.Other London houses recently featured on Dezeen include a Polysmiths project with structural arches and a residence featuring a dark patinated copper roof by Jason Good Architecture.The photography is by Will Pryce.The post Andrei Saltykov tucks unconventional house behind suburban London street appeared first on Dezeen.

It's been a bumper year for blockbuster building unveilings. As a useful indicator of some key current and future trends, here are 10 of the most significant architecture announcements of 2024.Image courtesy of AOLegends Tower, USA, by AOComfortably the biggest story of the year on Dezeen has been Legends Tower, a 581-metre-tall skyscraper planned for Oklahoma City that, if built, will be the world's tallest building outside of Asia.Since being announced in January the project, which is being developed by Matteson Capital, has received full funding and approval from the city council.In an interview with Dezeen, the California-based architect designing Legends Tower revealed that such a lofty building had not been the original intention.Find out more about Legends Tower Image courtesy of NeomSaudi Arabia's World Cup stadiumsSaudi Arabia remains the only contender to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, and in August it revealed all the stadiums it intends to use, including 11 set to be newly built.Among them is the Neom Stadium, incorporated into The Line skyscraper-city currently under construction in the north-west of the country. Described by the Saudi bid as "the most unique stadium in the world", its pitch will be more than 350 metres above the ground though the architect has not yet been named.Other major Neom announcements this year included an "upside-down skyscraper" inside a mountain and a 450-metre-long bridge hotel. The region-building project continues to attract fierce criticism from human rights groups.Find out more about Saudi Arabia's World Cup stadiums Photo by Tom RavenscroftFoster + Partners' two-kilometre-high skyscraperThough not an announcement and currently unconfirmed by the architect or a developer this was one of the biggest architecture stories of 2024.UK magazine Architects' Journal reported that architecture studio Foster + Partners is designing a two-kilometre-high skyscraper in the Saudi capital of Riyadh.If completed, it would be by far the world's tallest building, more than twice the height of the 828-metre-tall Burj Khalifa in Dubai and double that of Jeddah Tower, which is currently under construction in the Saudi port city.Find out more about this story Image by FG EmpreendimentosSenna Tower, Brazil, by Lalalli SennaFurther proof that the development of record-breaking skyscrapers is showing no sign of slowing down came from Brazil.Planned for Balnerio Cambori, a city in Brazil's southern Santa Catarina state, Senna Tower is slated to be 500 metres tall, which would make it not only South America's tallest building but the tallest residential tower in the world.The slim, glass-clad tower has been designed by artist Lalalli Senna to reflect the "heroic journey" of her late uncle, the racing driver Ayrton Senna.Find out more about Senna Tower Image courtesy of Michael Green ArchitectureMarcus Center, USA, by Michael Green ArchitectureThe emergence of increasingly tall mass-timber buildings has also been a key architecture trend in recent years, and in August another wooden project seeking to go higher than any other was unveiled.Vancouver studioMichael Green Architects released plans for a development in Milwaukee,Wisconsin, that includes a 55-storey tower built principally from mass-timber elements.If constructed, it would unseat the 86.6-metre-tall Ascent tower by Korb + Associates Architects, also in Milwaukee, as the world's tallest building made from engineered wood.Find out more about the Marcus Center Image courtesy of KPF8 Canada Square renovation, UK, by KPFRenovation has become an increasing focus for many architects in the face of concerns about the environmental impact of new construction, while the owners of large office buildings have been seeking ways to adapt their assets to suit post-Covid demands.These two trends appeared to come together when US architecture studio Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF) unveiled plans to overhaul theFoster + Partners-designed HSBC tower in London's Canary Wharf, officially named 8 Canada Square.Terraces will be cut into the facade of the 200-metre-tall skyscraper with new functions added, with cultural and leisure amenities introduced alongside workspaces.Find out more about the HSBC tower renovation Image courtesy of Oualalou + Choi and PopulousGrand Stade Hassan IIstadium, Morocco, by Oualalou + Choi andPopulousArchitecture studios Oualalou + Choi and Populous released images of the Grand Stade Hassan II in Morocco, being constructed for the 2030 World Cup.With a planned 115,000 seats, it will become the world's largest football stadium once completed.The stadium will be covered with a giant tented roof made from an aluminium lattice.Find out more about the Grand Stade Hassan IIstadium Image by Recent Spaces courtesy of Dolce & Gabbana and JDS Development Group888 Brickell, USA, by Studio Sofield and Dolce & GabbanaBranded residential skyscrapers have emerged as a major building trend this decade. So far, luxury car brands have dominated the market, but in April, fashion house Dolce & Gabbana signalled its intention to join them.The label released renderings of a supertall skyscraper in Miamidesigned in collaboration with New York architecture practice Studio Sofield.Find out more about 888 Brickell Image courtesy of RCR ArquitectesMuraba Veil, UAE, byRCR ArquitectesDubai has become synonymous with statement skyscrapers, and in October it was announced that yet another will be joining the Gulf city's downtown skyline.Pritzker Architecture Prize-winning studioRCR Arquitectes revealed its design for Muraba Veil, which despite being 380 metres tall will only be one apartment wide.The bottom of the apartment building will be occupied by a spa and communal space designed to have the feeling of being inside a sand dune.Find out more about Muraba Veil Photo by Maksim SokolovLa Sagrada Familia completion dateNot all the big architecture news this year was about new projects. In March, La Sagrada Familia Foundation announced that a completion date has finally been set for the famous Barcelona church designed by Antoni Gaud.Construction is now expected to conclude in 2026 more than 140 years after it began, and a century on from the architect's death.On completion, its 170-metre central spire will make La Sagrada Familia the tallest church in the world.Find out more about La Sagrada Familia The post The 10 biggest building announcements of 2024 appeared first on Dezeen.

Now that Jaguar's going all-electric, it's time for a new design direction, the company reckons. At the same time, the brand would be foolish to ignore their heritage; so their aim with this new Type 00 concept, in the words of Jaguar CEO Adrian Mardell, was designed to "create the same sense of awe that surrounded iconic models like the E-type." The two zeros in the name are symbolic: The first zero references emissions, while "the second represents its status as car zero in our new lineage." The form of the vehicle, meanwhile, was inspired by the company's new "Exuberant Modernism" design philosophy. (They're defining "exuberant" as "Vibrant, uninhibited and fearless," and "modernist" as "Future-facing, curious and inspired by the world. Respectful of the past, not dictated by it.") "The confident new face combines upright, flush surfaces with the new Jaguar device mark at its center. A distinctive and precise front light signature emphasizes the corners of the car, giving width and grounding it." "The side profile is dominated by bold proportions, with the Jaguar 'leaper' laser-etched into a hand-finished brass ingot on each side of the car. These ingots theatrically deploy to reveal rear-facing cameras that like the charging ports and front air intakes remain hidden until needed." "The rear continues the bold statement. A glassless tailgate and panoramic body-harmonized glazed roof create a sense of sculpture. The rear elevation is defined by distinctive horizontal Strikethrough graphics, which hide dramatic full-width taillights and emphasise the power and scale of Type 00." The typography, too, has received attention:"Device mark: Jaguar's signature. A celebration of modernism geometric form, symmetry and simplicity. Inspired by Malcolm Sayer, Jaguar's designer of the C, D and E-type who uniquely blended science and art to produce timeless shapes in these cars. The geometric letter forms are rotated to create perfect visual symmetry and balance. It creates a modernist form that spells out the distinguished Jaguar name." Professor Gerry McGovern OBE, Chief Creative Officer, JLR, said: "Type 00 is a pure expression of Jaguar brand's new creative philosophy. It has an unmistakeable presence. This is the result of brave, unconstrained creative thinking, and unwavering determination. It is our first physical manifestation and the foundation stone for a new family of Jaguars that will look unlike anything you've ever seen. A vision which strives for the highest level of artistic endeavour." On that latter note, the Type 00 was unveiled at Miami Art Week. We're a long ways from the days of the big auto shows, aren't we?

Creating a festive atmosphere in your home as the holiday season approaches can fill your space with warmth, joy, and the spirit of Christmas. From elegant candle holders to smart lighting solutions, incorporating unique designs can elevate your holiday decor and spread early festive cheer. We have curated a collection of ten designs that promise to bring magic to your home, each with its charm and functionality.Whether youre looking to add a nostalgic musical touch or a high-tech light display, these products offer a variety of ways to celebrate the season. Each item showcases innovative design and the ability to transform your space, making it perfect for your holiday decor.1. The James Brand ThrowflakeThe James Brand Throwflake Ornament is the perfect blend of festive decor and functional design. It is a great choice for those who prefer practicality and style. It is designed to add a touch of adventure to your holiday celebrations. It has a snowflake shape, which is not only visually attractive but also successfully conceals the tools tactical nature.It features six sharp points, which make it great for cutting through different materials. It is equipped with a lanyard, so you can easily hang it on your Christmas tree, allowing it to seamlessly blend with the other ornaments. It features a dual-purpose design which is great for modern explorers to want to incorporate the outdoor spirit into their holiday decor.Why is it noteworthy?The James Brand Throwflake Ornament showcases an innovative combination of form and function. While it serves as a beautiful addition to your Christmas tree, its tactical capabilities set it apart from traditional ornaments. This dual functionality makes it a practical choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities, offering a handy tool that can be easily accessed when needed. The Throwflakes design reflects a modern approach to holiday decor, appealing to those who appreciate both aesthetics and utility.What we likeServes as both a festive ornament and a practical tool for various tasks.Its snowflake shape adds a playful yet stylish element to your Christmas tree.What we dislikeThe sharp points require careful handling, especially around children.Its tool functionality may not be relevant for everyone, limiting its appeal.2. Govee Floor Lamp 2 with MatterIf youre in the mood to create some early Christmas razzle-dazzle in your home, then you may want to consider the Govee Floor Lamp 2. Smart floor lamps arent something youd typically use for holiday decorations, but the floor lamp could be an exciting and refreshing addition. The tall sticks of light can instantly elevate the mood of your home, whether youre hosting a Christmas party or having a cozy night with your family.You can leave the floor lamp in a corner or set it against a wall, enabling it to create a warm and festive environment. It is equipped with DreamView syncing, allowing you to connect it to other Govee lights, thereby creating a more seamless and unified environment. You can use the lamp to create an ambiance that perfectly matches your Christmas moodboard!Click Here to Buy Now: $99.99$149.99($50 off)|Amazon Link Here.Why is it noteworthy?The Govee Floor Lamp 2 is equipped with Matter support, so you can control the lamp remotely using your voice or an app. You can bring your party to life with ease! You can select a white theme to match your White Christmas party or choose colorful lights to create a dazzling and sensational atmosphere. It is equipped with RBGWWIC technology which delivers multi-color displays and adjustable 2200k-6500k warm/cool whites.What we likeFeatures80+ preset scene modes and user-customizable DIY modes, Govee Music DreamView Syncing.You can sync it with other Govee lighting products for a harmonious setup.What we dislikeSome users felt the lamp wasnt as bright as other Govee offerings.3. Govee Curtain Lights 2Say hello to Govees unique and innovative Curtain Lights 2. Christmas lights shouldnt only be limited to ceilings or trees, you can now use any wall or window as a canvas for some beautiful light displays and animated light shows. If youre in the mood to display a static logo or showcase Santa coming to town, then the Govee Curtain Lights 2 is a good bet.They feature 1040 lamp beads in a 40 x 26-pixel arrangement. They deliver unparalleled flexibility in displaying retro-style images that will fit your mood, occasion, or idea perfectly. You can display colorful pixies dancing on your wall or any other image you wish to create. Use your imagination and AI prompts to create something fun and festive!Click Here to Buy Now: $99.99$149.99($50 off)|Amazon Link Here.Why is it noteworthy?The lights provide AI-generated visualized lighting effects that respond to user prompts, allowing for a highly personalized experience. Users can directly upload photos and GIFs to create unique curtain lighting effects, enhancing the customization options. With over 207 scene modes and 8 music modes that synchronize with your music, the product provides a dynamic and immersive atmosphere. It also features responsive voice control through the Govee Home App, Alexa, Matter, or Google Assistant.What we likeIt is ideal for outdoor use since it has an IP65 waterproof rating.IoT compatibility makes the lights easy to control.What we dislikeSome users felt that the individual strings were a little far apart.4. LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 2024Count down the days to Christmas with the LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 2024. It is an exciting and interactive way to bring some early festive cheer into your home. You can introduce the beloved Star Wars universe into your holiday celebrations. It is a 368-piece set that delivers daily surprises. Each door unveils a new minifigure or vehicle to build.The set features iconic characters and ships like the Holiday Princess Leia, Mandalorian Gauntlet, and Jabbas Sail Barge, creating exciting entertainment for fans of all ages. It celebrates the 25th anniversary of the LEGO and Star Wars collaboration, so it is a truly special collectible for enthusiasts.Why is it noteworthy?The LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 2024 features the ability to merge the excitement of the holiday season with the adventure of the Star Wars saga. Its interactive nature engages both children and adults, offering a daily building activity that enhances the anticipation of Christmas. The inclusion of exclusive minifigures and vehicles adds collectible value, appealing to both casual fans and dedicated collectors.What we likeOffers a daily building activity that engages both children and adults.Features exclusive Star Wars items that appeal to collectors.What we dislikeMay not appeal to those who arent fans of the Star Wars franchise.Contains small pieces that may pose a choking hazard for young children.5. Stag Salt & Pepper SetNothing quite embodies the festive spirit of Christmas like a pair of ornamental-looking stags, capturing the essence of holiday charm and elegance. The stag salt and pepper set by Culinary Concepts is a delightful addition to your dinner table, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. These beautifully crafted shakers are designed to bring a touch of playful whimsy to your dining experience, making them an instant conversation starter.Each stag is meticulously detailed, showcasing intricate craftsmanship that highlights the attention to detail that Culinary Concepts is known for. The shakers boast a stunning silver finish, which not only adds a touch of sophistication but also ensures they stand out as feature pieces on your tabletop, elevating your holiday decor with their festive allure.Why is it noteworthy?Unlike ordinary salt and pepper shakers, these stags serve as charming decorative elements, enhancing the overall ambiance of your dining setting. Their intricate design reflects the artistry and creativity behind their creation, making them a perfect addition for those who appreciate unique and artistic home accessories. This set embodies the spirit of the holiday season, blending functionality with festive flair, and is sure to delight guests with its whimsical yet elegant presence.What we likeServe as functional and decorative pieces.Compact designs that wont occupy much space on your dining table and kitchen.What we dislikeThe ergonomics dont seem very comfortable to use.6. Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey GlassSome luxurious and refined glassware can help to add some early holiday cheer to your home. Add a touch of luxury to your household with these sleek and sophisticated whiskey glasses. Dubbed the Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey Glass, this drinkware will deliver a unique and refined drinking experience.It is inspired by the Aurora and is reinforced and coated with pure titanium. This offers durability and longevity which preserves the purity of taste. Cutting-edge technology was used to create a fascinating interplay of light and color, which forms a fascinating visual experience. The cup merges traditional Japanese craftsmanship with advanced space development tech.Click Here to Buy Now: $65.00Why is it noteworthy?As the name implies, the glass was made using titanium, which is a strong and biocompatible material. This makes the glass pretty durable, and it is also odor and stain-resistant. It draws inspiration from natural phenomena, which forms a visual drinking experience. It serves as a functional and interesting piece of drinkware that looks like art.What we likeBuilt titanium, hence it will last long.The purity of taste is preserved, offering better flavor.What we dislikeIt is intended for whiskey and similar beverages, so it has limited use if youre not someone who drinks alcohol.7. Diptyque Refillable Candle HolderThis refillable candle holder is a wonderful way to bring some early festive cheer to your home. It embodies elegance and innovation and is inspired by the brands iconic oval shape. It includes a trio of glass rings stacked to build a monolithic yet tactile structure. It is made using a traditional pressed glass technique, and it serves as a tribute to the artistry of glassmaking.The candle holder pays homage to Diptyques three founders, beautifully displaying their creative union and shared vision. It serves as a perfect and thoughtful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings, as it successfully merges beauty and modern functionality.Why is it noteworthy?The Diptyque refillable candle holder demonstrates exquisite craftsmanship and an interesting narrative. Its more than just a decorative item; its a piece of art that tells a story. The use of a pressed glass technique gives it a unique, tactile quality that invites admiration and touch. Its refillable nature not only highlights a commitment to sustainability but also ensures that the holder remains a cherished part of your decor long after the holiday season.What we likeThe unique glass structure adds a touch of sophistication to any space, making it a standout piece in your holiday decor.Being refillable, it reduces waste and offers a long-term decorative solution.What we dislikeMade of glass, it requires careful handling to avoid damage.8. Muro BoxCalled the Muro Box, this innovative device showcases a revolutionary leap in the world of music boxes, as it provides a customizable and modern twist on a truly beloved classic. It allows you to play any tune you please ranging from Christmas carols to the latest pop hits. It features app connectivity and a MIDI interface. The design is quite nostalgic, featuring a rotating cylinder with strategically placed studs.You can change the song and play an entire track, owing to the patented dynamic cylinder. This overcomes many of the issues of older music boxes, which could only play a single tune. The innovative box provides a unique personalized musical experience, so it is a great addition to your early holiday preps.Why is it noteworthy?Its ability to customize and play a wide variety of songs sets it apart from conventional music boxes, offering endless possibilities for personalizing your holiday soundtrack. This innovation allows you to create a unique atmosphere in your home, tailored to your musical preferences. The Muro Boxs nostalgic design, combined with its modern capabilities, makes it a captivating addition to any decor.What we likePlay any song you desire, adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations.Combines the classic charm of a music box with modern technology.What we dislikeMay require a learning curve to fully utilize its features.9. Twinkly Net LightsCalled the Twinkly Net Lights, this lighting design is a state-of-the-art solution for enhancing your outdoor holiday decor. It serves as a flexible and customizable lighting experience. It is a smart LED grip that can be wrapped effortlessly and easily around hedges and bushes. It can adapt to any shape, offering full coverage for a beautiful display.It features 16 million colors and smart multicolor LEDs. You can create personalized effects via a user-friendly app. These lights provide endless customizations, allowing you to pick the style that perfectly suits you. You can transform your backyard into a lovely and breathtaking spectacle.Why is it noteworthy?The lights can create a personalized light display with millions of color options sets them apart from traditional string lights, offering a unique and dynamic decorating experience. The seamless integration with smart home systems provides convenience and ease of use, allowing you to control your lights with simple voice commands. The weatherproof design ensures that the lights can withstand the elements, making them a reliable choice for outdoor use.What we likeThe app allows for endless color and pattern combinations.Durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions.What we dislikeRequires a smartphone and internet connection for full functionality.10. Titanium Artisan Spirits CupAnother way to add some early festive cheer to your home is by having a drink or two in some fancy drinkware. Called the Titanium Artisan Spirits Cup, this classy and unique cup combines elegance and craftsmanship. It will uplift your drinking experience, especially if you love fine spirits.It originates from Tsubame City in Niigata Japan, which is known for its masterful metalwork. The cup beautifully demonstrates the meticulous artistry of Japanese craftsmen. It weighs 22 grams and is designed to make every sip memorable and cherishable. It elevates your spirit-drinking experience, adding some Japanese flair to it.Click Here to Buy Now: $27.00Why is it noteworthy?The Titanium Artisan Spirits Cup displays some beautiful and precise craftsmanship. It creates an incredible sensory experience for you, showcasing a hammered texture that uplifts the aromatic profiles of spirits. The vibrant anodized finish provides a personalized touch to your drinkware collection. Since it is built from premium titanium, it is lightweight and durable.What we likeShowcases a lightweight and durable titanium construction.Elevates the flavor profile of spirits with its hammered texture.What we dislikeRequires careful maintenance to preserve its finish.The post 10 Best Designs To Add Some Early Festive Cheer To Your Home first appeared on Yanko Design.