• How to plan a holiday party that employees dont dread
    www.fastcompany.com
    Ah, the office holiday party. Some employees love the opportunity to celebrateor view it as a chance to gather intel from coworkers and debrief on office politics. But for some workers, the year-end celebration can be a dreaded annual requirement. Perhaps youre a remote employee who would rather get a gift card in lieu of an awkward virtual gathering, or maybe youre just confused about how to dress for the occasion.Holiday parties have slowly made a comeback since they were put on hold at the height of the pandemic, but theyve also transformed in that time. Gone are the days of lavish, multimillion-dollar parties, especially amid ongoing layoffs in industries like tech. Many companies now have to navigate ringing in the holidays with far-flung employeeswhile those with strict return-to-office policies might be looking to curry favor with disgruntled employees.Whatever you have planned, here are a few things to keep in mind as you put the final touches on your companys holiday party this year:Dont treat the office holiday party like forced funHoliday parties and other social events in the workplace can be a valuable way to foster relationships or connect with coworkers you wouldnt ordinarily encounter. In an era of remote work when many workers are not getting as much face time, the holiday party can serve as a chance for teams to talk about life instead of work, find common ground, and build friendships, writes workplace culture strategist Jennifer Moss.But forced fun can also have the opposite effect, especially if morale is already low. Moss suggests that companies get a sense of how their workforce is feeling about year-end celebrationsor, at a minimum, make it clear that any holiday festivities are optional. Issues arise when having fun with colleagues after work is implied or overtly expected, she says. It can also be helpful to loop in employee resource groups to better accommodate neurodivergent employees in a holiday party setting, according to Moss.Take employee morale into accountIf your company is still reeling from layoffs or employees are concerned about economic uncertainty, you might feel inclined to forgo an office holiday partyor at least scale back your celebrations to meet the moment. But executive coach Alisa Cohn points out that even when times are hard, its important to recognize your employees and avoid ending the year on a depressing note.I believe you shouldnt let the year end with a sentiment of doom and gloom, because if you do, youll likely return from the holidays to find your employees still burned out and questioning the prospects of the company and their own desire to be there, she writes.Instead of a traditional holiday party, you could opt for a volunteer day or another activity oriented around social impact. Either way, dont forget to acknowledge how employees have contributed to the company over the last year, despite the circumstances. Even in the roughest of years, if youve made it to the other side, its because of the individuals at your company, Cohn says.Try to be inclusive of remote workersSince many companies are now distributed or have a significant remote workforce, it can be even harder to create a holiday party experience that feels inclusive of all your employees. Even as in-person holiday parties have resumed, employers can choose to keep part of their celebrations virtual. You can invite everyone to wear an ugly holiday sweater or dress festively, and provide fun holiday virtual backgrounds in advance, writes diversity and inclusion leader Mita Mallick. An activity can also be a good way to bring people together virtually, whether that means crafting or hosting a tasting.Its also important to send your remote employees any gifts or swag that youre planning to distribute at a holiday party, or give them something comparable. Go a step further by knowing what your employees like and dont like, and remember that not everyone drinks alcohol, Mallick says.
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  • Why Thrive Capitals Vince Hankes is betting big on OpenAI
    www.fastcompany.com
    Were in this massive paradigm shift, says Vince Hankes, the venture capitalist leading Thrive Capitals investment in OpenAI. And when that happens, historically, there have been new companies created that are worth a lot of money.Thrive Capital wasnt an early investor in the generative AI standoutit didnt buy in until 2023but its made some of the biggest bets on the startup. It reportedly led a private share deal in early 2024 that enabled OpenAI employees to sell shares at an $86 billion valuation, then led a funding round in October that valued the startup at $157 billion.Hankes and Thrives founder Josh Kushner (brother of President-elect Donald Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner) had known Sam Altman for years before investing. But it was actually their interest in other companies that brought them to OpenAI. We actually were looking at other startups using this AI technology and it turned out to be GPT-3 under the hood, Hankes says. And that spurred us to go spend time with OpenAI, which back then was much more of an enigma, I think, to the average investor.For AI companies like OpenAI, success is a game of scale: Building large frontier models requires massive amounts of training data and computing power. That kind of scale requires large funding rounds and long runways, with the potential for very big paydays down the line. As an investor, Thrive is set up for such delayed gratification, according to Hankes, who worked at Tiger Global before becoming a partner at Thrive in 2019.[We] dont do many things, but when we do something, were getting excited about an opportunity [and] we really double, triple, quadruple down in terms of our time trying to understand it very deeply, he adds.Hankes believes OpenAI is one of a relatively small set of companies (alongside the likes of Meta, Google, and Anthropic) that will have the resources to build the frontier models of the future. But even among that crowd, he believes the startup has some unique competitive advantages. He says OpenAI captured the zeitgeist of the market with ChatGPT, which has translated into millions of paying ChatGPT Pro subscribers. That revenue can help offset the costs of inventing and training new frontier models. CFO Sarah Friar recently said OpenAI now makes 75% of its revenue from its 11 million ChatGPT Pro customers.OpenAI also gets valuable data from its chatbot users conversations (provided they opt in), which the company can then use to help train the next generation of its frontier models. This creates a flywheel effect, Hankes says.As they do that they get new capabilities and features, which attracts more users, he says.This story is part ofAI 20, our monthlong series of profiles spotlighting the most interesting technologists, entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and creative thinkers shaping the world of artificial intelligence.
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  • Cubitts West Village by Tutto Bene is a "stage for spectacles"
    www.dezeen.com
    This compact eyewear store in New York's West Village has been divided into "on stage" and "backstage" areas, as part of a design studio Tutto Bene's "love letter to theatrical glamour".The second New York City store for UK-based brand Cubitts is situated on Bleecker Street, a thoroughfare known for its architectural charm and variety of boutiques.The front of the Cubitts West Village store presents eyewear on wooden shelves recessed into beige felt wallsDesign studio Tutto Bene, which is behind several Cubitts interiors, looked to the history of the neighbourhood and the building once home to playwright Lorraine Hansberry to inform this location."It's a love letter to theatrical glamour, holding a mirror to the dualities of 'on stage' and 'backstage', public and private lives," said the design team. "The front of the store is designed as a stage for spectacles. A theatre of the every day, for the theatrical masks we all wear."A velvet-upholstered sofa sits under the store windowThe eyewear is displayed on wooden shelving recessed into beige felt-lined walls and illuminated by cove lights hidden behind.Wooden floorboards are stained black to emulate a stage, while movable display plinths made from brushed aluminium have a prop-like quality.A curved wall leads to the "backstage" consultation areaOverhead, a 1980s geometric pendant lamp by Swiss architect Mario Botta joins a 1960s Kaiser Leuchten table lamp by German designer Klaus Hempel both chosen for their resemblance to theatre flashlights.A velvet-upholstered sofa is placed in the window for shoppers to rest, relax, and observe the performance of trying on eyewear, providing "a front-row seat for the weary spectacle browser" according to Tutto Bene.Read: Tutto Bene references Streamline Moderne in tiny New York eyewear storeThe curved wall behind a partition leads to the "backstage" area, which is decorated in contrasting dark brown.This space is used for bespoke consultations and includes a vanity mirror with lightbulbs like in a theatre dressing room.The consultation space is decorated dark brown and features a vanity mirrorTo celebrate the West Village store opening, Cubitts has launched three new frames modelled on local landmarks including former speakeasy Chumley's and the Whitney Museum of American Art.The brand was founded in King's Cross, London, in 2013, and now has 19 stores spread across both sides of the Atlantic.The Cubitts West Village store is located in a Bleecker Street building once home of playwright Lorraine HansberryTutto Bene is led by Felizia Berchtold and Oskar Kohnen, and has studios in London and Milan.The firm's previous interiors for Cubitts include a store in Islington, north London, modelled on an artist's loft and a boutique in New York's Soho influenced by early 20th-century American industrial design.The photography is by Alice Gao.The post Cubitts West Village by Tutto Bene is a "stage for spectacles" appeared first on Dezeen.
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  • Bernardo Bader Architekten creates cuboidal primary school in rural Austria
    www.dezeen.com
    Bregenz studio Bernardo Bader Architekten has completed a cuboidal primary school in rural Austria that is designed as a "village within the village".Located on a mountainous site in the town of Au in Bregenzerwald, the extension expands an existing campus comprising a middle school and kindergarten.Bernardo Bader Architekten has created a primary school in rural AustriaThe primary school building is accompanied by a new schoolyard and will be later joined by a gymnasium, designed by Bernardo Bader Architekten to open in 2026.According to the studio, the yard is intended to serve as a focal point for the campus, which it is aiming to transform into a "village".It is cube-shaped and raised on a concrete base"The basic spatial idea is the creation of a school village, 'the village within the village'," the studio's founder Bernardo Bader told Dezeen."The position of the buildings creates a rich collection of typologically different outdoor spaces, which balances itself with the existing structures to form an equal composition of body and space," Bader added."The heart of the strengthened ensemble is a contained and protected schoolyard, which can be used equally for play and learning purposes, especially in the warm season."Larch wraps the exteriorEnclosing the southern side of the schoolyard is the new primary school building, designed as a cubic volume clad in larch planks and elevated on a concrete base. Its timber finish continues into the interiors.The use of wood was chosen by Bernardo Bader Architekten as a homage to the history of craftsmanship in the region, which was home to the 17th-century Vorarlberg School a guild of bricklayers, masons and carpenters.Wood also lines the inside of the building"The predominant use of wood as a building material and the masterly craftsmanship can be understood as a vote for the continuation of a local building tradition," Bader told Dezeen."This resulted in an atmospherically diverse building of great sensuality, formally understated, distinguished and elegant, and, importantly, one that creates a sense of security and not distance," he added.Read: Ateliers O-S and NAS Architecture organise French school around planted courtyardA slight slope on the site means that the basement cloakroom benefits from level access to an external sports field to the east. In the future, an underground link will also connect it directly to the gymnasium.Above, the primary school's classrooms have been positioned at each corner of the building to provide them with plenty of natural light and views.Classrooms are positioned around the edges of the schoolOnce completed, the gymnasium will enclose the northeastern edge of the yard, with a set of steps created between it and the primary school that leads down towards the external playing field.Previous school projects by Bernardo Bader Architekten include the extension of a kindergarten in Lustenau, which also features timber finishes throughout, and a stone-clad ski centre with mismatched windows.The photography is by Gustav Willeit.The post Bernardo Bader Architekten creates cuboidal primary school in rural Austria appeared first on Dezeen.
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  • This Tiny Home For Eight People Is Described As A Luxury Tiny Castle
    www.yankodesign.com
    Designed by Frontier Tiny Homes, the 2024 Perpetua model is their latest creation. It is based on a triple-axle trailer and it is a park model. It features a total length of 40 feet and a width of 10 feet. The home is a luxury tiny castle as described by the creators. It can accommodate eight people in four bedrooms while boasting a full kitchen and a full bath. It isnt your typical mobile home, it has all the comforts and luxuries of a full-time residence if you think about it. It is comfortable with luxury finishes.Designer: Frontier Tiny HomesPark tiny homes tend to have many of the same features as traditional homes, but they have wheels, making them mobile. Although they do need special permits to be moved. The Perpetua weighs around 24,000 lbs, and it has a carrying capacity of 4,000 lbs. It features a dual-loft design, which provides separate sleeping spaces. The ground floor holds a bedroom,m which isnt commonly seen in tiny homes. It has a clever dropped floor design, which includes full wardrobe, additional storage space, and a large sliding door.The ground floor also includes a full bathroom, which includes a flushing toilet, a walk-in shower, a sink with vanity, and a washer-dryer unit. A small lounge area serves as a guest bedroom, while an additional couch can also be used to sleep guests. The living room also includes an electric fireplace, which adds a nice touch of elegance to the home. An entertainment center can be added above the fireplace as well.The kitchen is equipped with a double-door fridge with a freezer, a 4-burner gas range with an oven, a microwave, a hood extractor, a dishwasher, and a large farm sink. It also boasts solid walnut butcher block countertops, white oak cabinets, and soft-close on all opening doors. If you select the two-level layout, one of the lofts will be able to accommodate a king-sized bed. The home also features vaulted ceilings in the living room, five stabilizer jacks, tongue-and-groove exterior siding, SunStable windows with screens, and a mini-split for AC and heat.The post This Tiny Home For Eight People Is Described As A Luxury Tiny Castle first appeared on Yanko Design.
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  • Appliances So Intuitive, They Work Like Second Nature No Manual Needed!
    www.yankodesign.com
    Imagine interacting with a product that doesnt require instructions or guesswork, a tool that feels so intuitive it seems to speak your language. This is the promise of the BEHAVIORAL (instincts) series, a collection of four small appliances designed to bridge instinct and usability. By merging familiar behaviors with innovative design, these products create experiences that are not only functional but also memorable.Designer:YU ID andJunSeo OhREVOLVE: Attachable SpeakersThe form of the speaker takes inspiration from the humble doorknob, an object universally associated with control and access. Just as turning a doorknob opens a door, rotating REVOLVE adjusts the sound. This tactile design not only feels natural but also invites a sense of exploration. Equipped with silicone pressure pads, the speaker can attach to walls, creating a unique echo chamber effect. REVOLVE isnt just a tool for listening, its an invitation to shape how sound interacts with your environment, turning a simple speaker into a doorway to new auditory experiences.SPIN: Supplementary BatterySpin is a supplementary battery that reimagines the charging experience with a nod to the nostalgic charm of cassette tapes. The battery device features a rotating disk that moves as electricity flows, visually representing the direction of the charge. This dynamic motion is both functional and engaging, transforming a mundane activity into a sensory experience. By merging analog familiarity with modern technology, SPIN bridges the gap between past and present, creating a product that doesnt just charge your devices but also sparks a moment of joy in the process.EXTEND: LightingInspired by the mechanics of a tape measure, this torch light allows users to adjust brightness intuitively. Stretching the cable feels as natural as measuring a length of fabric or wood, with the brightness increasing as the wire extends. This clever design not only simplifies light control but also makes it engaging and satisfying. Whether you need a subtle ambiance or a bright workspace, EXTEND lets you tailor your lighting with the ease of a familiar motion, turning illumination into an interactive and creative act.ROTATE: Extension CordROTATE reinvents the conventional extension cord by borrowing from the design of a gas valve. Instead of a standard switch, the valve rotates to open or close the circuit, visually communicating the flow of electricity. This intuitive design makes managing power both simple and tactile. By integrating a motion many users already understand, ROTATE transforms a routine task into a moment of control and mastery, reminding us that even the most utilitarian tools can offer a sense of satisfaction.The BEHAVIORAL (instincts) series exemplifies how thoughtful design can enhance the user experience, creating products that go beyond functionality to leave lasting impressions. Each product taps into familiar behaviors and sensory engagement, making interactions intuitive and enjoyable. By prioritizing the intersection of instinct and learning, these tools demonstrate that great design doesnt just solve problems, it enriches daily life.The post Appliances So Intuitive, They Work Like Second Nature No Manual Needed! first appeared on Yanko Design.
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  • Product of the Week: Wenshuo Tableware
    www.home-designing.com
    As the temperatures drop and cozy winter evenings beckon, theres nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm drink. Even more so when its thoughtfully designed tableware. Case in point: Wenshuo tableware. This brings both functionality and aesthetic charm to your tablemaking it perfect for sipping hot cocoa, enjoying morning coffee, or serving desserts during gatherings.The irregular design of the Wenshuo Crinkle Drinking Glasses adds texture and charm, making every sip feel special. Use them for hot beverages or watertheyre versatile enough for any occasion. Their organic shapes bring a relaxed yet chic vibe to your table.This Wenshuo Chubby Coffee Mug and Saucer Set combines a playful design with practicality. The ergonomic handle and smooth ceramic finish make it a joy to hold, while the saucer doubles as a resting spot for small bites.Perfect for serving ice cream, nuts, or granola, these Wenshuo Stemmed Dessert Bowls with their modern pedestal base double as a conversation starter. Whether its a snack on a chilly afternoon or a festive treat, these bowls elevate the experience.Wenshuo tableware isnt just for youits a thoughtful gift for loved ones this holiday season. Imagine gifting a set of crinkle glasses to a friend who loves artisanal coffee or a dessert bowl to someone who hosts gatherings. These pieces are practical yet uniquely stylish, making them memorable presents!
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  • 3D art of the week: Razvan Smaranda
    www.creativebloq.com
    The 3D character artist uncovers the tale of his piece Needle Knight Leda.
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  • 6 Best Video Doorbell Cameras (2024): Smart, Battery, AI, Budget, and Subscription-Free
    www.wired.com
    Never miss a delivery. These WIRED-tested picks will help you keep tabs on your front door from anywhere.
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