Bitcoin rallied to a new all-time high Sunday evening as investors awaited the Federal Reserve's final interest rate decision of the year.

Adobe shares tumbled after the software vendor issued revenue guidance that fell short of analysts' estimates.

Plus, old-school motion graphics anim and optical effects.Today on the befores & afters podcast, were chatting to director, cinematographer and VFX artist Christopher Webb about practical effects. Chris is the founder of FX WRX, an outfit that specializes in in-camera effects. Ive talked to him previously about several projects, but today were narrowing in on a Gatorade Propel spot achieved with some very fun water and bubble effects, and on a Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers video. For that video, FX WRX created some incredible analog motion graphic animation and optical effects, very 80s style. For each project, we go into detail about the shoot at FX WRXs studio, including with motion control camera equipment and bespoke setups.This episode of the befores & afters podcast is sponsored by SideFX. Looking for great customer case studies, presentations and demos? Head to the SideFX YouTube channel. There youll find tons of Houdini, Solaris and Karma content. This includes recordings of recent Houdini HIVE sessions from around the world.Check out the chat above, and the final pieces and some behind the scenes images, below.The post How to make practical water and bubble effects appeared first on befores & afters.

If youve been waiting for a Betty White postagestamp,2025is your year. The U.S. Postal Service has announced its first slate of newstampsfor the new year, including one showing a digital illustration of the lateGolden Girlsactress by Dale Stephanos, plus the latest Love and Flagstamps.[Photo: USPS]This early glimpse into our2025stampprogram demonstrates our commitment to providing a diverse range of subjects and designs for both philatelists andstampenthusiasts, USPSstampservices director Lisa Bobb-Semple said in a statement.An untitled 1985 work by Keith Haring showing two figures with a heart will be next years Lovestamp,a tradition that will be in its 52nd year. The artwork is perfect for astampthat needs to be able to be used not just for Valentines Day, but beyond.[Photo: USPS]The non-specificity of the figures allows a variety of people to see themselves in thisstamp, USPS art director Antonio Alcal said in a statement. Partners getting married, celebrating an anniversary, siblings sending each other a heartfelt greeting, or even party planners setting a positive tone for their event.Next years Flagstampfollows a2023 design that read Freedomand gave me post-9/11 these colors dont run vibes. The newstampuses a photo of the U.S. flag by Doug Haigh and United States of America written out in a thin, sans-serif font. Other newstampsthat are part of long-running series coming out next year include astampof musician Allen Toussaint for USPS Black Heritage series, and astampof snake for lunar new year. Designer Camille Chew made a 3D paper snake mask embellished with acrylic paint for the design.[Photo: USPS]The Appalachian Trail is getting its own pane of 15stampswith photos of the nearly 2,200-mile trail from every state it runs through, and the American Vistasstampsare twostampsbased on screen prints by the Los Angeles design studio DKNG Studios showing a mountain and beach scene.This story was originally published on Yello, a newsletter about design and politics from Hunter Schwarz.

If empty offices were some of the lemons produced by the pandemic, office conversions are the lemonade. Savvy developers and city officials have spent the past few years finding ways to take vacant and undesirable office towers and turning them into much needed housing, among other uses. This year has been the most active on record, according to a new report.The commercial real estate services firm CBRE finds that more than 70 office conversion projects have been completed so far this year, and 30 others should be done by the end of the year, for a total of 103. CBRE began tracking office conversions in 2016. That year 26 projects were completed, and the number has been growing slowly since then. The numbers began jumping up in the post-pandemic years and spiked in 2024. Compared to 2023, office conversions are up 63% in 2024.CBREs report shows that most of these former offices are being turned into housing, accounting for 74% of the projects underway or completed this year. Other conversions include hotels, life sciences, and industrial spaces. But in most cities, and in the downtown business districts where many vacant office towers stand, the most desirable reuse option for these structures is multifamily housing.The boom in office-to-housing conversions is being driven largely by plummeting values for offices, which have struggled to retain tenants in the aftermath of the pandemic. Even after the lockdowns of the pandemic lifted in many places, office vacancy rates have remained high across the U.S., reaching record levels of nearly 20% on average earlier this year. And though not every struggling office building is a good candidate for reuse as housing, a surprising amount are. Thats led cities from Calgary to Cleveland to New York to incentivize and streamline the process of getting conversion projects underway.Given the multi-year timeframe of urban development projects, many of these pandemic-related conversion projects are finally coming online, which is why 2024 has been a record year. And according to CBREs report, it may be only a temporary record as 2025 is expected to see an even greater number of office conversions. There are already 94 conversion projects underway across the U.S., with another 185 planned, for a total of 279.

The World Cement Association has predicted that global demand for cement and clinker will decrease more than previously expected by 2050 due to changing market trends and sustainable material advancements.In its white paper, Long-Term Forecast for Cement and Clinker Demand, the association predicted that global cement use would decrease from 4.2 billion tonnes per year to three billion per year between now and 2050.The World Cement Association also predicted that demand for clinker, which is the main ingredient in Portland cement and produces large amounts of CO2, will also decrease from 2.8 billion tonnes per year to less than 1.9 billion per year.Decreasing demand linked to slowing construction in ChinaAccording to the association, its predictions were based on regional cement and clinker demand trends, particularly a decrease in use in China, and the adoption of low-carbon practices in the construction industry.World Cement Association CEO Ian Riley explained that cement demand has been influenced by a decrease in new city developments in some countries as population growth has plateaued."The decrease in cement and clinker demand is driven by several factors," he told Dezeen. "Slowing infrastructure and construction activity in markets like China has significantly reduced consumption, where demand has already fallen from 2.4 billion tonnes per annum in 2020 to an estimated 1.8 billion tonnes per annum in 2024.""Declining or stabilising populations in developed regions have lessened the need for large-scale new developments, further contributing to the reduction in demand."Read: Definitions of low-carbon concrete announced at COP29 to "bring transparency and trust"Riley also said that advancements in clinker alternatives and supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) have helped reduce the reliance on carbon-intensive clinker."The growing emphasis on reducing carbon emissions is encouraging the adoption of alternative materials, optimised designs, and strategies to minimise waste," he said. "The development of clinker-free cements and low-carbon alternatives is also playing a key role in this transition.""Clinker demand is projected to fall from 2.8 billion tonnes per annum in 2024 to less than 1.9 billion by 2050, possibly as low as one billion, depending on the rate of adoption of SCMs and alternative binders," Riley continued."The analysis assumes a steady reduction in clinker due to increased SCM availability and technological advancements.""Cement industry is undergoing an unprecedented transformation"The World Cement Association published its white paper to provide an accurate overview of global cement and clinker use and inform built environment professionals about planning for lower-carbon building practices."The cement industry is undergoing an unprecedented transformation," said Riley. "As we move towards a decarbonised future, understanding the true demand for cement and clinker is critical to ensuring that policies, technologies, and investments align with reality.""This white paper aims to provide industry leaders and policymakers with the clarity needed to plan effectively and sustainably."Read: Recycling "breakthrough" could usher in zero-emissions cementRiley hopes the report's findings will encourage the architecture and construction professions to continue lowering their projects' carbon footprints by designing with minimal concrete and adopting more low-carbon building materials, such as mass timber and geopolymers."The decline in cement demand signals a shift towards more sustainable architectural practices, including innovative materials, optimised designs and carbon reduction," he said."Lower cement and clinker demand directly contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of construction projects, aligning with global sustainability goals," Riley continued."This transition offers an opportunity to create more environmentally friendly buildings and reduce the long-term environmental impact of construction."Last month, the Global Cement and Concrete Associationannounced definitions for low-carbon concrete and cement at COP29. Earlier this year, researchers devised a way to recycle waste cement to make low-carbon concrete.The top photo of Sinoma Cement factory is courtesy of the World Cement Association.The post World Cement Association predicts "unprecedented transformation" in cement demand over next 25 years appeared first on Dezeen.

Fashion house Dior has unveiled the Gold House concept store in Bangkok, which is surrounded by facades modelled on the brand's headquarters in Paris.Set on a former carpark in Bangkok's Ploenchit district, the 1,000-square-metre store is named Dior Gold House after its distinctive facade treatment.Dior's concept store is wrapped in false facadesThe single-storey, mirror-clad store is entirely surrounded by a false facade wall covered in one million gilded golden tiles.Punctuated by 300 windows, the facade is made up of multiple replicas of Dior's headquarters at 30 Avenue Montaigne in Paris, where Christian Dior established the fashion house in 1946.The facades are modelled on the outside of Dior's Paris HQThese elevations tower above the store and enclose a pair of plant-filled courtyards and a covered patio for the cafe.While the exterior is covered in golden tiles, the walls' inner surfaces are cloaked in mirrors, matching the exterior of the store hidden inside.The store has a mirrored facadeThe store has two main entrances, with visitors passing through one of the courtyards to enter.Inside are a series of six spaces finished with natural materials including bamboo, wood and raffia described by Dior as "refined, ultra-contemporary and sublimated".Read: Christian de Portzamparc wraps Dior flagship store with "resin shells" in GenevaSpaces are dedicated to all of the fashion house's divisions with Maria Grazia Chiuris womenswear and Kim Jones' menswear, as well as the Dior Maison collections.At the centre of the building is a domed, central space topped with a star, while a cafe serves dishes by Michelin-starred chef Mauro Colagreco.A central domed space sits inside the storeThroughout the store and its surrounding grounds are artworks designed by nine different Thai artists.The works include a stool imprinted with an elephant footprint, designed by the founder of Bangkok Project Studio Boonserm Premthada.There is also a cafePrevious Dior stores on Dezeen include a store in Geneva, Switzerland, wrapped in six interweaving "petals", while US studio Aranda\Lasch created the interior facade for a store outside of Doha.The post Dior wraps Bangkok concept store in golden replicas of HQ facade appeared first on Dezeen.

Picture yourself on an adventure, facing a daunting chore you need to overcome quickly, like slicing a piece of fruit, shaving the bark off a branch, or cutting a thick rope. You could just brutally hack it with some garish tool, or you can do it in style like a modern-day hero. Thats where the Tekto F2 Bravo Tactical Folding Knife comes in, your trusty sidekick thats ready to help you tackle any challenge with flair!This knife transforms ordinary tasks into exhilarating moments, combining elegance with efficiency. Whether youre a thrill-seeking adventurer, a meticulous craftsman, or an EDC enthusiast, this knife isnt just a tool its an exciting companion ready to elevate your experience. The F2 Bravos modern simplicity and premium craftsmanship invite you to explore new horizons with confidence and style. Get ready to unleash your adventurous spirit with a knife thats as dynamic as you are!Designer: TektoClick Here to Buy Now: $127.50 $149.99 (15% off, use coupon code Yanko). Exclusive for Yanko Design Free Tekto T-Shirt (95% cotton, 5% spandex), Free FedEx 2-Day Shipping! Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours. Get the F2 Bravo Ember *Red here!Timeless Design Meets Modern InnovationThe F2 Bravo embodies the essence of modern design with its clean lines and thoughtful details. Every aspect of this knife is crafted to perfection, from the machined pocket clip to the custom titanium accents. The recessed liners not only enhance its clean appearance but also provide the rigidity needed for a firm grip. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the F2 Bravo exudes a premium feel that is both timeless and contemporary.The knifes state-of-the-art ceramic ball bearings allow for rapid and smooth blade deployment. This feature, combined with its sleek design, makes the F2 Bravo a joy to use. Whether youre navigating the wilderness or crafting in your workshop, this knife is engineered to perform seamlessly in any environment.Uncompromising Quality with a Drop-Point BladeAt the heart of the F2 Bravo is its impressive drop-point blade, crafted from premium D2 steel. Known for its exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance, this blade is built to withstand the rigors of any adventure. Its flat grind and fine edge ensure that it remains sharp and reliable, making it an indispensable tool for both outdoor enthusiasts and craftsmen alike.The drop-point design provides versatility, allowing you to tackle a variety of tasks with ease. From slicing through tough materials to precision cutting, the F2 Bravo is designed to handle it all. This level of quality and performance is what sets it apart from the competition, making it a must-have for any serious knife collector.Lightweight Durability for Every JourneyWeighing in at only 2.4 ounces (68 grams), the F2 Bravo is incredibly lightweight without compromising on durability. Available in two handle materialsForged Carbon and G10this knife offers extreme durability and a comfortable grip. These materials are renowned for their lightness and strength, ensuring that the F2 Bravo is both practical and reliable.The knifes lightweight design makes it an ideal companion for any adventure. Whether youre hiking through rugged terrain or exploring new cities, the F2 Bravo is easy to carry and ready to assist you at a moments notice. Its portability and resilience make it a favorite among EDC enthusiasts who demand the best from their gear.Premium Titanium Accents for a High-End FeelThe F2 Bravo is more than just a functional tool; its a piece of art. Its custom titanium accents, including the pivot, machined clip, and milled spacer, add a touch of elegance that elevates its overall aesthetic. These features not only enhance the knifes appearance but also contribute to its high-end feel, making it a standout addition to any collection.These titanium accents are a testament to Tektos commitment to quality and craftsmanship. They not only enhance the knifes visual appeal but also ensure that it performs flawlessly under pressure. For those who appreciate the finer things in life, the F2 Bravo is a perfect blend of style and substance.Sharp Deals for a Sharp KnifeFor a limited time, Yanko Design readers can enjoy an exclusive deal on the Tekto F2 Bravo. Receive 15% off your entire cart, plus free FedEx 2-Day Shipping, and a guaranteed delivery before Christmasor your money back. As a special bonus, youll also receive a free Tekto T-Shirt (95% cotton, 5% spandex), available exclusively through this offer.Dont miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of cutting-edge design and craftsmanship. The Tekto F2 Bravo is more than just a knife; its a testament to innovation and style. Whether youre an outdoor adventurer, a craftsman, or an EDC enthusiast, this knife is the perfect addition to your collection. Act now and experience the unmatched quality and performance of the F2 Bravo.Click Here to Buy Now: $127.50 $149.99 (15% off, use coupon code Yanko). Exclusive for Yanko Design Free Tekto T-Shirt (95% cotton, 5% spandex), Free FedEx 2-Day Shipping! Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours. Get the F2 Bravo Ember *Red here!The post Why Tekto F2 Bravo is the Ultimate EDC Folding Knife for Every Adventure first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smartphones have changed the dynamics of the world, virtually bringing every possible function to this pocketable device. Overusing phones is a major concern worldwide due to multiple health hazards and irreversible effects on the brain. Being glued to the screen for countless hours daily has triggered psychological problems, sleep-related issues, and unreal aspirations triggered by social media influencers.An antidote to this smart gadgets abuse are the minimalist phones that phase out all those luring distractions and apps so that you can be more mindful of our world. However, many people who take up the initiative to use minimalist devices end up completely giving up the idea and going back down the rabbit hole on their ultra-capable smartphones. The problem with minimalist phones is the overemphasis on restriction without any engagement-driven productive functions, which creates a psychological barrier.Designer: Junah KahmVista digital detox phone wants to get over this catch-22 situation offering the users a more enjoyable experience rather than creating overly pushy restrictions that can have a reverse psychological effect. The device is a medium through which you live a more conscious life with more physical engagement rather than a virtual one. For instance, the camera viewfinder lets you view the world in real rather than your vivid screen clocked at 120 fps. This gives a new perspective on how you create stories or reels.Rather than having a bezeless display, Vista goes for a form that has a big space on the top side for the speakers to traverse back to the times when radio was the norm. To this end, the phone only plays live radio from your local online radio station, and does not give the user the option to play their Spotify or Tidal playlist. Productivity and life-enhancing apps are a given preference, encouraging the user to pursue positive dopamine bursts that promote better lifestyle choices. The lockscreen has essential items and doesnt overload with options to stay focused.Explore timeless simplicity with our curated Minimalist Collectioncrafted to elevate your everyday with intentional design.The post This minimalist phone solves smartphone addiction using physical interaction : Meet the Vista Digital Detox Phone first appeared on Yanko Design.

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