This is todays edition ofThe Download,our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology.How the US is preparing for a potential bird flu pandemicThis week marks a strange anniversaryits five years since most of us first heard about a virus causing a mysterious pneumonia. A virus that we later learned could cause a disease called covid-19. A virus that swept the globe and has since been reported to have been responsible for over 7 million deathsand counting.We are facing the same uncertainty now with bird flu. We know it can cause severe disease in animals, and we know it can pass from animals to people who are in close contact with them. As of this week, we also know that it can cause severe disease in peoplea 65-year-old man in Louisiana became the first person in the US to die from an H5N1 infection.Scientists are increasingly concerned about a potential bird flu pandemic. The question is, given all the enduring uncertainty around the virus, what should we be doing now to prepare? Read the full story.Jessica HamzelouThis story is from The Checkup, our weekly health and biotech newsletter. Sign up to receive it in your inbox every Thursday.Ask our journalists anything!Do you have questions about emerging technologies? Well, weve got answers. MIT Technology Reviews science and tech journalists are hosting an AMA on Reddit today at 12 pm ET. Submit your questions now!The must-readsIve combed the internet to find you todays most fun/important/scary/fascinating stories about technology.1 Metas new speech policies allow the denigration of trans peopleThe revamped guidelines now permit previously-forbidden insults and allegations. (Platformer $)+ The changes have left Metas employees feeling embarrassed and ashamed. (404 Media)+ Axed fact-checkers held an emergency meeting after Meta said it no longer required their services. (Insider $)2 The US Supreme Court will hear TikToks final pleaJustices are likely to make their decision before the end of next week. (The Guardian)+ If the ban is enacted, you can probably still access TikTok via a VPN. (NYT $)+ ByteDances founder could be TikToks secret weapon. (The Information $)3 Those pictures of the Hollywood sign burning are AI-generatedAI slop is making the Los Angeles fires appear even worse than they are. (404 Media)+ Elon Musk and Donald Trump arent helping matters by spreading disinformation. (The Verge)+ AI cameras are keeping tabs on the spreading destruction in Californias hills. (Insider $)+ The scale of the destruction is truly horrifying. (NY Mag $)4 Last year was officially the hottest ever recordedThe average global temperature exceeded 1.5C above the pre-industrial baseline for the first time. (New Scientist $)+ Consequently, were edging closer to breaching the Paris Agreement. (Politico)5 How to prevent another zoonotic pandemicIt all hinges on early detection. (FT $)6 Foxconn has stopped sending Chinese workers to Indian iPhone factoriesIts bad news for Apple, as its likely to disrupt production. (Rest of World)7 This new cell could change plastic surgery as we know itLipochondrocytes have the rigidity of cartilage and the squishiness of fat. (Wired $)+ Cosmetic surgery is booming in middle-income countries. (Economist $)8 Yandexs co-founder is shaking off PutinArkady Volozh has condemned Russias actions in the war with Ukraine, and started a new company. (Bloomberg $)+ How Russia killed its tech industry. (MIT Technology Review)9 Grok is a standalone app nowIts searching for an audience beyond the X faithful. (WSJ $)+ The company appears to be testing a separate website, too. (TechCrunch)10 PlayStation is experimenting with adding smells to its games Smells fishy to me. (Fast Company $)Quote of the daySocial media is like building real estate on sand. You never know.Joanne Molinaro, a former lawyer-turned TikTok chef, worries about the precarity of building a career tied to a specific internet platform, she tells CNN.The big storyAI hype is built on high test scores. Those tests are flawed.August 2023In the past few years, multiple researchers claim to have shown that large language models can pass cognitive tests designed for humans, from working through problems step by step, to guessing what other people are thinking.These kinds of results are feeding a hype machine predicting that these machines will soon come for white-collar jobs. But theres a problem: Theres little agreement on what those results really mean. Read the full story.William Douglas HeavenWe can still have nice thingsA place for comfort, fun and distraction to brighten up your day. (Got any ideas? Drop me a line or skeet em at me.)+ The Sun turned blue 200 years ago and no one knew whyuntil now.+ Theres nothing better than a surreal TV crossover (Arrested Development + Law & Order: SVU, anyone?)+ Rye the truffle-hunting golden retriever is a very good boy indeed (thanks Vincent!) + I want to go to every single one of these incredible destinations and eat all their food.

The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max will both benefit from 48-megapixel sensors for all cameras on the rear, according to one prolific leaker.Rear cameras on an iPhoneApple's iPhone camera system is frequently the topic of rumors, and the iPhone 17 Pro's cameras are no different. If believed, the latest circulating rumor will make the Pro models in 2025 the best iPhone camera system ever.The rumor, posted by "Digital Chat Station" on Weibo on Friday, makes the claim that the three camera sensors on the back of the Pro models will all use 48-megapixel sensors. Digital Chat Station adds that the Telephoto camera will still have a 5-times magnification, and will use "glass plastic lenses." Rumor Score: Possible Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

These annual rankings were last updated on January 6, 2025. Want to see your firm on next years list? Continue reading for more on how you can improve your studios ranking.Seattle, also known as the Emerald City not the one in the Wizard of Oz but rather a nickname that speaks of the citys breathtaking surrounding greenery is considered one of the most futuristic cities in the United States. Starting as a humble timber town in the 19th century, post-industrial Seattle was violently destroyed after the 1889 Great Seattle Fire razed much of the downtown area. Following this pivotal event, Seattle underwent a rapid architectural rebirth. Architectural works such as John Grahams Jr. Space Needle, OMAs Seattle Library and Frank Gehrys Museum of Pop Culture mark the West Coast citys modern architectural history.In addition, Seattle is a city that continually attracts some of the most visionary architectural projects, such as the Amazon Spheres Amazons workspace housing an impressive range of plant species not just through sustainable and technologically driven practices but also through socially invigorating designs. In recent years, the city has become a hotbed for mixed-use developments, seamlessly blending residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to create vibrant, livable communities.With so many architecture firms to choose from, its challenging for clients to identify the industry leaders that will be an ideal fit for their project needs. Fortunately, Architizer is able to provide guidance on the top design firms in Seattle based on more than a decade of data and industry knowledge.How are these architecture firms ranked?The following ranking has been created according to key statistics that demonstrate each firms level of architectural excellence. The following metrics have been accumulated to establish each architecture firms ranking, in order of priority:The number of A+Awards won (2013 to 2024)The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2024)The number of projects selected as Project of the Day (2009 to 2024)The number of projects selected as Featured Project (2009 to 2024)The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2024)Each of these metrics is explained in more detail at the foot of this article. This ranking list will be updated annually, taking into account new achievements of Seattle architecture firms throughout the year.Without further ado, here are the 30 best architecture firms in Seattle:30. Graphite Design Group Graphite Design GroupGraphite Design Group is a Seattle-based design firm recognized for crafting people-focused integrated environments that elegantly solve complex problems. Their diverse portfolio spans office, retail, hospitality and mixed-use typologies, serving a broad clientele from boutique retail spaces to $400M development projects. With a team of experienced architects and designers, Graphite Design Group seamlessly blends creativity with functionality, consistently delivering bespoke designs that surpass expectations.Some of Graphite Design Groups most prominent projects include:Marys Place Family Center, Seattle, WashingtonAmazon.com Phase 8, Seattle, WashingtonParque, Kirkland, WashingtonApollo, Seattle, WashingtonNitro, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Graphite Design Group achieve 30th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 1 Total Projects 12 29. HEWITT HEWITTOn successful city streets, people must appear at different times. This is time considered on a small scale, hour by hour through the day. Jane JacobsHEWITT is an integrated architecture, landscape architecture, and urban design firm dedicated to solving complex urban challenges with energy, optimism and a sense of responsibility.Some of HEWITTs most prominent projects include:Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center, Federal Way, WashingtonExcelsior, Seattle, WashingtonCapitol Hill Station Transit-Oriented Development, Seattle, WashingtonThe Emerald , Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped HEWITT achieve 29th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 1 Total Projects 4 28. Graypants GraypantsAnchored in Seattle and Amsterdam, design studio Graypants was founded as an opportunity to apply an architectural mindset to product design and art, enhancing space and enriching experiences. Graypants work is rooted in light-minded design, and includes architecture, product design, art installation and exhibition.Some of Graypants most prominent projects include:Tomo, Seattle, WashingtonGarage, Vashon, Washington The following statistics helped Graypants achieve 28th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 2 27. Weber Thompson Weber ThompsonFounded in 1988, Weber Thompson is a majority women-owned architecture, interior design, landscape architecture and sustainable design firm. We have a staff of over 60 professionals, including architects, space planners, interior designers, LEED APs, landscape architects and construction specialists.Our dynamic, integrated design practice is led by curious people who challenge conventional wisdom, lead with integrity and design with guts. Our disciplines are underscored with strong technical experience, a commitment to sustainability, and a heartfelt dedication tocreating spaces that serve their future users and operators.Weber Thompson is a JUST company.Some of Weber Thompsons most prominent projects include:Watershed, Seattle, WashingtonDATA 1, Seattle, WashingtonStratus, Seattle, WashingtonArbora Court, Seattle, WashingtonNexus, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Weber Thompson achieve 27th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Winner 1 Featured Projects 1 Total Projects 7 26. Stettler Design Stettler DesignStettler Designs goal is to enrich the functional needs of the client with experiences of space, light and material. We forge close relationships with our clients, making us better able to respond to their needs in a practical and aesthetic way. Each design is an evolving process, from the initial ideas about the context to the finish materials and details. Together, these elements of the project work together to form a meaningful whole.We approach each new project with the belief that a building and its site are fundamentally linked. The setting, views, sun orientation, landscape and other environmental factors help shape our designs.Some of Stettler Designs most prominent projects include:Burke Gilman House, Seattle, WashingtonRenton House, Renton, Washington The following statistics helped Stettler Design achieve 26th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 2 25. Verge Architecture & Design Verge Architecture & DesignWe pride ourselves on our welcoming and open minded personalities because this allows our clients to feel as though they can ask anything. We listen carefully because we wouldnt be here unless you asked us to be, and we form lifelong relationships with the folks we design for as well as the ones that we design with.Some of Verge Architecture & Designs most prominent projects include:Kirkland Residence, Seattle, WashingtonJuanita Residence, Seattle, WashingtonShoreline Kitchen, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Verge Architecture & Design achieve 25th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 3 24. Neiman Taber Architects Neiman Taber ArchitectsNeiman Taber Architects is a full service architecture firm, based in Seattle, providing innovative designs for residential, commercial and institutional clients throughout the state of Washington. We specialize in contemporary architecture that is uniquely responsive to the climate of the Pacific Northwest. Our work is a continual exploration of configuration, material, and technology that creates buildings uniquely suited to their place and time.Some of Neiman Taber Architects most prominent projects include:Marion Green Courtyard Townhomes, Seattle, WashingtonWalsh Hollon Residence, Seattle, WashingtonBeach Drive, Seattle, WashingtonSaratoga Springs Residence, Saratoga Springs, New York The following statistics helped Neiman Taber Architects achieve 24th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 4 23. Sundberg Kennedy Ly-Au Young Architects benjamin benschneiderSundberg Kennedy Ly-Au Young Architects is an 10-person design firm located in Seattles Capitol Hill neighborhood. Our firm is a tightly-knit and collaborative group of designers and professionals who bring a wide spectrum of skills and expertise to each project. We specialize in the careful crafting of buildings and spaces for civic, academic, environmental and residential use.Some of Sundberg Kennedy Ly-Au Young Architects most prominent projects include:West Mercer Residence, Seattle, WashingtonMadrona Remodel, Seattle, WashingtonBrook Bay, Seattle, WashingtonChophouse Row, Seattle, WashingtonWestside School, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Sundberg Kennedy Ly-Au Young Architects achieve 23rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 5 22. chadbourne + doss architects Kevin Scott Photographychadbourne + doss architects take a holistic approach to creating unique environments that are relevant to their place and deeply responsive to our clients needs and desires.Our work embodies a fascination with the contrasting relationships of everyday life inside/outside, public/private, technology/nature through the innovative use of form, materials and light. Taking on creative projects at all scales; we have a particular interest in work that engages the arts, environment and community.Some of chadbourne + doss architects most prominent projects include:Wood Block Residence, Mercer Island, WashingtonThe Perch, Seattle, WashingtonProw House, OregonLobster Boat Residence, Seattle, WashingtonPast Present House, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped chadbourne + doss architects achieve 22nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 7 21. FINNE Architects FINNE ArchitectsRaised in the United States and Norway, Nils Finne established FINNE Architects in Seattle in 1994, bringing a Scandinavian understanding of craft and landscape to the Pacific Northwest. Dedicated to the idea of Crafted Modernism, Nils typically designs custom lighting, furniture, cabinets and hardware for every project. FINNE has produced more than 80 pieces of custom fabrications, which are also sold as stand-alone items.At FINNE Architects in Seattle, we have been practicing sustainable design for over fifteen years. We are members of the Cascadia Green Building Council and we are LEED certified. We design every project to conserve resources by using passive heating and cooling, to maximize the use of natural light, and to employ sustainable building materials. Current work also includes active systems such as photovoltaic panels and ground-source heat exchangers.Some of FINNE Architects most prominent projects include:Lake Forest Renovation, Lake Forest Park, WashingtonBainbridge House, Bainbridge Island, WashingtonPort Ludlow Residence, Seattle, WashingtonEagle Harbor CabinSKLI Pendant Light Fixture The following statistics helped FINNE Architects achieve 21st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 14 20. Silk Cavassa Marchetti Silk Cavassa MarchettiSilk Cavassa Marchetti is an architecture and interiors firm known for the design of bespoke site-specific residences and commercial buildings that stand the test of time. Serving clients throughout the Puget Sound region and across the country, we believe in the power of design to positively impact lives and enhance our built environment. For over thirty years we have pursued an approach that adheres to the foundational principles of functionality, proportion, and craft. Partnering with our clients is our passion, purpose, and privilege. We delight in the multi-layered process required to match functionality with design and embrace sustainability as an integral part of the solution.Some of Silk Cavassa Marchettis most prominent projects include:Salmon Bay Landing, Seattle, WashingtonHidden Cove Residence, Seattle, WashingtonYellowstone Residence, Big Sky, MontannaSanta Lucia Residence, Carmel Valley, CaliforniaLake Cove Residence, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Silk Cavassa Marchetti achieve 20th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 14 19. Lane Williams ArchitectsWe are a team of architects devoted to the design of modern, custom, single-family residences. Projects range from new homes and remodels in the greater Seattle area to vacation retreats in the San Juan Islands and Central Washington, plus works in Oregon, California and Connecticut.Our designs have been featured in Metropolitan Home, Trends, Fine Homebuilding, Sunset, Residential Architect and many regional publications. We are a team of architects devoted to the design of custom, single-family residences.Some of Lane Williams Architects most prominent projects include:Queen Anne Mid-Modern, Seattle, WashingtonInterlock House, Medina, WashingtonPush Pull Pavilion, Medina, WashingtonSunrise Vista, Seattle, WashingtonEnetai House, Bellevue, Washington The following statistics helped Lane Williams Architects achieve 19th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 16 18. Land Morphology Kevin Scott PhotographyLand Morphology is a Seattle-based landscape architecture practice focused on creating rich, emotive landscapes. Founded by Richard Hartlage, Land Morphology is comprised of a talented interdisciplinary team of landscape architects, designers, urban planners and horticulturists, who create highly varied spaces that integrate exquisite built form, sophisticated horticulture, and the fine arts. Each space is uniquely memorable, vibrant, carefully crafted and environmentally sustainable.Some of Land Morphologys most prominent projects include:Leach Botanical Garden The Upper Garden, Portland, OregonThe Perch, Seattle, WashingtonInSitu Garden, Redding, ConnecticutLeach Botanical Garden, Portland, OregonVillage Green, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Land Morphology achieve 18th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 6 17. Patano Studio Architecture EHDDPatano Architecture Studio produces High-Performance, low energy use buildings for public and private clients. We work in a highly collaborative manner to design projects that are direct responses to the local climate. Our approach utilizes the available site resources to create comfortable, healthy spaces that use as little energy as possible. Durable, elegant structures that utilize cutting edge building technologies result from our process. Our integrated team affords our clients great value while simultaneously producing projects that drastically reduce annual operating costs.Some of Patano Studio Architectures most prominent projects include:Riverstone Office Building, Coeur dAlene, IdahoUniversity of Idaho, Reveley Classroom Building, Moscow, IdahoLake Sammamish State Park Bathhouse Replacement , Issaquah, WashingtonSmith Cove Cruise Ship Terminal and Event Center, Seattle, WashingtonBLK_LAB, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Patano Studio Architecture achieve 17th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 7 16. CAST architecture CAST architectureCAST architecture is a Seattle based firm, specializing in warm modern residential design. We strive to make fluid, functional spaces that are elegant, vibrant and a joy to inhabit.Some of CAST architectures most prominent projects include:Mazama Ranchero, Okanogan County, WashingtonRAINIER BEACH URBAN FARM AND WETLANDS (RBUFW), Seattle, WashingtonIcicle Creek Retreat, Leavenworth, WashingtonSunset Substation Park, Seattle, WashingtonGreenwater Cabin, Greenwater, Washington The following statistics helped CAST architecture achieve 16th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 19 15. grouparchitect Doug J ScottGrouparchitect, a Seattle based architecture firm, designs concise architectural solutions for all sizes of residential, multifamily and mixed-use/commercial projects. Creating great work requires an ongoing process of dialogue and our flexible, collaborative team approach results in beautifully designed and well functioning buildings of all types. Our experience ranges from vacation cabins to urban residences to six-story mixed-use buildings to high-rise towers throughout the Pacific Northwest.Some of grouparchitects most prominent projects include:Elford Remodel, Seattle, WashingtonTransnet Office Building, Issaquah, WashingtonBallard Remodel, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped grouparchitect achieve 15th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Total Projects 3 14. Paul Michael Davis Architects Paul Michael Davis Architects, PLLCBefore starting his own office, Paul gained several years of experience in leading architecture firms in LA and New York. He has led the design and construction of numerous projects, from creative designs for three childrens libraries on very limited budgets to a major renovation and addition to a landmark townhouse for a hedge fund. While working in Frank Gehrys Los Angeles office, Paul developed advanced architectural concepts on projects like the Louis Vuitton Foundation museum in Paris. He has also been on a member of the Interior Design faculty of Bellevue College. Paul attended the University of Washington, earning two Bachelors degrees in 2000, and a Master of Architecture in 2003.Some of Paul Michael Davis Architects most prominent projects include:Wyss Family Container House, Mercer Island, WashingtonBurke Gilman House, Seattle, WashingtonThe Dogs Breakfast, Redmond, WashingtonCafe Javasti, Seattle, WashingtonThe Fire Lookout House, California The following statistics helped Paul Michael Davis Architects, PLLC achieve 14th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 10 13. Signal Architecture + Research Signal Architecture + ResearchFocused on connecting people with place, Signal Architecture + Research works to design inspiring places for humankind, drawing distinct influence of experience through materials, function, light, nature and sound. Communication, listening and collaboration from clients to communities creates the foundation for our approach to integrative design dialog.Some of Signal Architecture + Researchs most prominent projects include:Cottonwood Canyon Experience Center, Wasco, OregonE-9 Trekking CabinPower of Trust, Seattle, WashingtonCoos History Museum & Maritime Center, Coos Bay, OregonNorthwest Railway Museum Archives, Snoqualmie, Washington The following statistics helped Signal Architecture + Research achieve 13th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 13 12. First Lamp Architects First Lamp ArchitectsAt First Lamp Architects, our journey began as a vision rooted in the profound connection between architecture, design and construction. Founded on the principles of blending creativity with craftsmanship, we emerged as an Architect-led Design Build company with a distinct focus on crafting stunning and functional net-zero and Passive homes that transcend the ordinary. Our mission, firmly anchored in the poetic sense of space, drives every facet of our work.One of the most compelling aspects of Residential Architecture is the unique ability of those who conceive the design to also bring it to life through construction. This dynamic process allows our projects to evolve organically, maintaining the same unwavering creative focus from the initial spark of inspiration to the final nail hammered into place.Some of First Lamp Architects most prominent projects include:Lake Tapps Residence, Pierce County, WashingtonBadger Mountain House, Richland, WashingtonBallard Aperture, Seattle, WashingtonLever Homes, Seattle, WashingtonBallard Passive House, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped First Lamp Architects achieve 12th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 13 11. SHED Architecture & Design Modern Architects Seattle AMZ ArquitetosSHED Architecture & Design, located in Seattle, specializes in modern and sustainable projects including custom homes, remodels and commercial interiors, as well as landscape, furniture and conceptual designs. SHEDs origins as a design/build firm continue to inspire and inform the design process, as they collaboratively work with clients and partners to seek unique solutions that embody the qualities of economy, beauty and craft.Some of SHED Architecture & Design Modern Architects Seattles most prominent projects include:Treehouse, Seattle, WashingtonMain Street House, Seattle, WashingtonStable Conversion , Seattle, WashingtonAlley Cat, Seattle, WashingtonMe-Kwa-Mooks Net-Zero, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped SHED Architecture & Design - Modern Architects Seattle achieve 11th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 6 Total Projects 17 10. mwworks mwworksmwworks is a Seattle-based design studio offering architectural and interior design services to residential and commercial clients. Formed in 2007, our offices remain small, focused on compelling, collaborative projects of all scales.Some of mwworkss most prominent projects include:Helen Street, Seattle, WashingtonWhidbey Island Farm Retreat, Island County, WashingtonCanyon Barn, Leavenworth, WashingtonCase Inlet Retreat, Gig Harbor, WashingtonLaurelhurst Midcentury, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped mwworks achieve 10th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 6 Total Projects 7 9. GOC GO'CFounded in the Pacific Northwest, GOC is an award-winning architecture and design studio inspired by the interplay of rational design and artistic expression. From residential to commercial and arts-focused public spaces, we thrive in the challenges and opportunities of site-specific work. Our mission is to cultivate a collaborative design ethos dedicated to producing expressive and contextual architecture that enriches its place.Some of GOCs most prominent projects include:IN-KIND HOUSE, Seattle, WashingtonOiselle Flagship Store, Seattle, Washingtonwa_sauna, Seattle, WashingtonCOR Cellars, Lyle, WashingtonSound House, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped GO'C achieve 9th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 13 8. Prentiss + Balance + Wickline Architects Prentiss + Balance + Wickline ArchitectsWe design with the belief that nothing is impossible, and temper it with good old-fashioned pragmatism, embracing both big ideas and intricate details. Taking into account location, context and other inherent attributes of a specific project, we strive to create a balanced whole, integrating the structure and the environment. We consider the interplay between inside and outside, light and shadow, aesthetics and utility, carefully selecting materials that harmonize with nature, prioritizing efficiency and sustainability.Some of Prentiss + Balance + Wickline Architects most prominent projects include:Boathouse, San Juan County, WashingtonWintergreen Cabin, Winthrop, WashingtonCortes, Strathcona, British ColumbiaFoster Loop, Okanogan County, WashingtonBallard Cut, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Prentiss + Balance + Wickline Architects achieve 8th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: Featured Projects 8 Total Projects 30 7. Best Practice Architecture Rafael SoldiMeaningful design is a balance between content, beauty and function. Inspiration from our clients real-life needs is used to choreograph intuitive experiences with distinct levels of interaction. Our devotion is to never losing sight of the needs of the people with whom we work. This is our Best Practice.Some of Best Practice Architectures most prominent projects include:Granny Pad, Seattle, WashingtonEye Eye, Seattle, WashingtonRainier Annex Studios, Seattle, WashingtonSmith Tower Tenant Improvement, Seattle, WashingtonBig Mouth House, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Best Practice Architecture achieve 7th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Winner 1 Featured Projects 8 Total Projects 38 6. GRAHAM BABA ARCHITECTS GRAHAM BABA ARCHITECTSGRAHAM BABA ARCHITECTS is a vibrant Seattle architecture firm recognized for the successful place-making of commercial, residential and arts spaces. Whether through the renovation of existing buildings or in new construction, the firm believes authenticity can and should be found in every building by use of honest materials such as metals, wood and glass celebrated in their natural state.Through subtle and economical design moves, Graham Baba creates places that tell a story, places that people are drawn to and spaces that encourage social interaction and community. The Graham Baba team is driven by thoughtful creativity and collaboration and works to celebrate the embedded qualities of spaces as well as the potential of a site and program and client vision.Some of GRAHAM BABA ARCHITECTS most prominent projects include:Washington Fruit Company Headquarters, Yakima, WashingtonTrailbend Taproom, Seattle, WashingtonAlaska Airlines Flagship Lounge, Seattle, WashingtonKlotski Building, Seattle, WashingtonThe Shop by Porter, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped GRAHAM BABA ARCHITECTS achieve 6th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Winner 4 A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 42 5. Robert Hutchison Architecture JSa Arquitectura, Robert Hutchison ArchitectureRobert Hutchison Architecture (RHA) specializes in the design of contemporary projects that balance beautiful, inspiring spaces with economic, pragmatic solutions. In partnership with clients, consultants and builders, we seek creative solutions for an architecture that is elegant and efficient. At the core of our work lies an interest in investigating the boundaries of architecture, balancing the permanent with the ephemeral to create works evoking a strong sense of place. Our diverse list of projects includes custom homes and remodels, cabins, art studios, commercial interiors and institutional and public works. Always striving for a holistic practice, we balance architectural commissions with research, writing and installation projects.Some of Robert Hutchison Architectures most prominent projects include:Casa de Bao, Temascaltepec de Gonzlez, MexicoRain Harvest Home, Temascaltepec de Gonzlez, MexicoAlley House #2, Seattle, WashingtonCourtyard House on a River, Greenwater, WashingtonCantilever House, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Robert Hutchison Architecture achieve 5th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Winner 1 A+Awards Finalist 3 Featured Projects 8 Total Projects 25 4. SkB Architects SkB ArchitectsSkB Architects was founded in February 1999 by Shannon Gaffney, Kyle Gaffney and Brian Collins-Friedrichs. The firm seeks to create meaningful, sensory-rich environments for individuals, corporate clients, retailers, developers and culturally-connected communities. Based in Seattle and with projects located throughout the United States, the diversity of the firms practice allows ideas from different project types to cross-pollinate and influence one another, ultimately leading to more comprehensive and informed design solutions. The firm is driven by the idea that thoughtful, insightful, and creative design has the power to enrich peoples lives.Some of SkB Architects most prominent projects include:Bay Area Research Company, CaliforniaWillis Tower, Chicago, IllinoisU.S Bank Center, Seattle, WashingtonWild Ginger, Bellevue, Washington400 Fairview, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped SkB Architects achieve 4th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Winner 4 A+Awards Finalist 2 Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 31 3. LMN Architects LMN ArchitectsLMN Architects specializes in designing convention centers, cultural arts venues, higher education and sports facilities, commercial and mixed-use developments and urban environments that celebrate and enrich communities. Founded in 1979, LMN has earned an international reputation for high quality design, successfully managing complex projects and delivering progressive, sustainable solutions.Some of LMN Architects most prominent projects include:University of Iowa School of Music: Suspended Theatroacoustic System, Iowa City, IowaSound Transit University of Washington Station, Seattle, WashingtonVoxman Music Building Terracotta Facade, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IowaVoxman Music Building, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IowaAsian Art Museum, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped LMN Architects achieve 3rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Winner 3 A+Awards Finalist 4 Featured Projects 8 Total Projects 42 2. The Miller Hull Partnership The Miller Hull PartnershipFounded in 1977 by David Miller and Robert Hull, partners with a defining background in the Peace Corps, The Miller Hull Partnership is strongly influenced by site and environmental conditions. The heart of our work is understanding the power of natural surroundings. Our legacy of environmentally responsible buildings is inspired by the efficiency and elegance of passive systems and regional materials. We leverage the openness and flexibility of modernist form to celebrate connections inside and out. We continually explore the boundaries of current thought, pulling from the latest technology, materials and cultural context. Miller Hull is widely recognized for innovative, timeless designs that provide enduring value by harmoniously elevating the ordinary with nature. Partnership is at the core of our practice.Some of The Miller Hull Partnerships most prominent projects include:Loom House, Bainbridge Island, WashingtonThe Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design, Atlanta, GeorgiaRenton Public Library, Renton, WashingtonMercer Island Fire Station 92, Mercer Island, WashingtonPike Place MarketFront, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped The Miller Hull Partnership achieve 2nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Winner 2 A+Awards Finalist 8 Featured Projects 16 Total Projects 36 1. Olson Kundig NikeOlson Kundig is a Seattle-based design practice founded on the ideas that buildings can serve as a bridge between nature, culture and people, and that inspiring surroundings have a positive effect on peoples lives. Led by five owners, the firms work can be found across the globe, with projects as wide ranging as huts to high rises, homes often for art collectors to academic, cultural and civic projects, museums and exhibition design, places of worship, creative production, urban design and interior design. The firm began its creative existence in 1966 with the architect Jim Olson, whose work at that time centered on explorations of the relationship between dwellings and the landscapes in which they inhabit.Some of Olson Kundigs most prominent projects include:ANOHAThe Childrens World of the Jewish Museum Berlin , Berlin, Germany242 State Street, Los Altos, CaliforniaMartins Lane Winery, Kelowna, CanadaShinsegae International, Seoul, South KoreaCharles Smith Wines Jet City, Seattle, WashingtonFeatured image: Water Cabin, Seattle, Washington The following statistics helped Olson Kundig achieve 1st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Seattle: A+Awards Winner 6 A+Awards Finalist 12 Featured Projects 55 Total Projects 107 Why Should I Trust Architizers Ranking?With more than 30,000 architecture firms and over 130,000 projects within its database, Architizer is proud to host the worlds largest online community of architects and building product manufacturers. Its celebrated A+Awards program is also the largest celebration of architecture and building products, with more than 400 jurors and hundreds of thousands of public votes helping to recognize the worlds best architecture each year.Architizer also powers firm directories for a number of AIA (American Institute of Architects) Chapters nationwide, including the official directory of architecture firms for AIA New York.An example of a project page on Architizer with Project Award Badges highlightedA Guide to Project AwardsThe blue + badge denotes that a project has won a prestigious A+Award as described above. Hovering over the badge reveals details of the award, including award category, year, and whether the project won the jury or popular choice award.The orange Project of the Day and yellow Featured Project badges are awarded by Architizers Editorial team, and are selected based on a number of factors. The following factors increase a projects likelihood of being featured or awarded Project of the Day status:Project completed within the last 3 yearsA well written, concise project description of at least 3 paragraphsArchitectural designwith a high level of both functional and aesthetic valueHigh quality, in focus photographsAt least 8 photographs of both the interior and exterior of the buildingInclusion of architectural drawings and renderingsInclusion of construction photographsThere are 7 Projects of the Day each week and a further 31 Featured Projects. Each Project of the Day is published on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Stories, while each Featured Project is published on Facebook. Each Project of the Day also features in Architizers Weekly Projects Newsletter and shared with 170,000 subscribers.Were constantly look for the worlds best architects to join our community. If you would like to understand more about this ranking list and learn how your firm can achieve a presence on it, please dont hesitate to reach out to us at editorial@architizer.com.The post 30 Best Architecture and Design Firms in Seattle appeared first on Journal.

After recent reports of Ubisoft continuing talks of a potential buyout, the company has now announced that advisors will be appointed to look into strategic options, according to CNBC. In a strategic update, the company said that these advisors will explore transformational strategic and capitalistic options to extract the best value for stakeholders.Ubisoft goes into further details about these advisors, stating that the oversight over them will be handled by independent members of its board of directors.This process will be overseen by the independent members of the Board of Directors, said Ubisoft in a statement. Ubisoft will inform the market in accordance with applicable regulations if and once a transaction materializes.Co-founder and CEO Yves Guillemot also reiterated the companys plans to create value from the various franchises and assets owned by Ubisoft. We are convinced that there are several potential paths to generate value from Ubisofts assets and franchises, he said in a statement.As a result, the company has also decided to push release date back for Assassins Creed Shadows from its originally-planned February 14 date to now March 20. The game is slated for release on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.A report from December indicated that Ubisoft founders and controlling shareholders, the Guillemot family, was in talks with Tencent about a potential buyout of the company. Part of these discussions was the family maintaining its controlling interests over the company after the buyout. Tencent, on the other hand, is reportedly looking for greater control over Ubisoft, including future decisions made by its board of directors.Talks of the buyout currently seem to be in a stalemate, with Tencent being happy with its 10 percent stake in Ubisoft and waiting for the company to agree to its deal. Guillemot himself is seemingly looking to take the company private by teaming up with minority stakeholder AJ Investments.In more recent times, Ubisoft has been in hot water with the gaming audience due to a perceived inconsistency in the quality of the games it has released. The studio is hoping that its next major release, Assassins Creed Shadows, will help quell these complaints.For greater context, Assassins Creed Shadows was originally set for release back in November. The underwhelming commercial performance of Star Wars Outlaws, however, convinced the company to push the release date further in order to ensure a high quality title.The company also recently announced that it would be shutting down its free-to-play multiplayer shooter XDefiant, with its servers slated to go offline until June 3. In the mean time, planned content for the game was released, with the games final season of content having come out back in December. This update brought, among other things, 3 new playable factions and 13 new maps.For more details on Ubisofts recent releases, check out our review of XDefiant from back when it launched, as well as our review on Star Wars Outlaws.

Marvel Rivals first season, Eternal Night Falls, is now available on all platforms. It adds a new Convoy map, Empire of Eternal Night: Midtown, and two new heroes from the Fantastic Four Mister Fantastic and The Invisible Woman. They also have The Maker and Malice as alternate outfits.Other new content includes Doom Match on Sanctum Sanctorum in Arcade Mode, a deathmatch mode where the winners are crowned from the top 50 percent scoring players. Convoy and Convergence also get a new feature that allows for moving to the next spawn room if attackers reach a checkpoint, thus preventing staggering.But wait, theres more as Ranks have been reset, and a new Celestial Rank, above Grandmaster and below Eternity, is available. There are also several new settings to customize, like turning off anti-aliasing, global illumination and reflection quality, and a Performance option for Model Detail. Check out some of the patch notes below and full details here.Two more heroes, The Human Torch and The Thing, will be added in the second half of Season 1, so stay tuned for updates.Marvel Rivals Version 20250110 Patch Notes1. New Content1.1 All PlatformsHeroes and CostumesMister Fantastic and the Invisible Woman join Marvel Rivals!New Costumes: Mister Fantastic The Maker; Invisible Woman Malice!Maps and ModesExplore the new Convoy map Empire of Eternal Night: Midtown.Prepare for the thrilling arcade mode (Doom Match) and its map (Sanctum Sanctorum): 8-12 players will engage in battle, with the top 50% emerging victorious.New feature: In Convoy and Convergence, both sides can transition to the next spawn room sometime after the attacking side completes the current target.Enhanced feature: During the loading phase of a Quick Match, you can now view the Nameplates of both sides.Season & StoreUnlock a dazzling shiny new Battle Pass featuring 10 brand new sets of heroic costumes!Embark on the first thrilling half of the Midnight Features Season Event!Dive into the latest Twitch Drops event, featuring rewards such as the Hela Will of Galacta costume. (Stay tuned for official announcements for specific times)We have revised the refresh times for various in-game content. Beginning with Season 1, the unlock time for daily missions, the availability of new items in the store, and the start time for most events have been adjusted from 7:00 (UTC+0) to 9:00 (UTC+0).Additionally, we have optimized the mission types and removed some of the more challenging ones.RankedIntroducing the Celestial Rank, a tier above Grandmaster and below Eternity, consisting of 3 divisions.Rank Reset: based on your final Season 0 rank, ranks will be demoted by 7 divisions. For example, if you ended Season 0 at Platinum I, your Season 1 journey begins at Silver II.TournamentsNewly added automatic follow function for tournament sign-ups: Faction members can opt to follow the captain on the sign-up page. When the captain/coach initiates or cancels the sign-up process, following members will automatically confirm. Please note, this feature, once activated, is effective for the current season only.New faction reporting function: Report factions for perceived misconduct in the same tournament within the past 90 days.New spectating channel: Chat in real-time with fellow rivals while spectating the same match.When spectating, the target players hotkeys and crosshair settings will be prominently displayed.New setting option: Block all active invitations and faction join requests.GeneralStreaming Mode: In Settings Social, new settings have been added under the social setting allowing streamers to conceal their name as needed (only effective locally; other players in the same match can still see it).1.2 PCGraphics and SettingsEnhanced and optimized graphics settings for improved performance:New: Added a new Off option under Anti-Aliasing.New: Included a Performance option for Model Detail.New: Integrated a new Off option under Global Illumination.New: Added a new Off option for Reflection Quality.Optimization: Adjusted and optimized various parameters within the graphics settings.Mouse Settings: Under Settings, the Keyboard Combat category now includes new settings for mouse smoothing and mouse acceleration, enabling customization as required.Support Intel XeSS 2: With Intel Xe Super Sampling 2 (XeSS 2), experience faster, smoother gameplay with higher image quality and a more connected playing experience with Intel Xe Frame Generation (XeFG), Intel Xe Low Latency (XeLL).

Accessory maker Genki has revealed in an interview with Japanese publication Game*Spark that the Nintendo Switch 2 accessories it showcased during CES 2025 were based on leaks and not actual hardware. A representative from Genki said that even the mock-up of the Switch 2, which was used to showcase Genkis case for the console, was based on information that had been previously leaked.The representative also said that the company itself had not seen the console, and that it did not have information on the Switch 2 that could be considered accurate.Only Nintendo can tell whether accessories for the Switch will be compatible with the Switch 2, said the company. Genki also stated that it doesnt know whether the line-up of accessories it revealed will be compatible with the Nintendo Switch 2 when it launches.Nintendo has also released its own statement, saying that any version of the Nintendo Switch 2 hardware present at CES 2025 was not official. The company also clarified that it had not sent Genki the console to design its accessories.Among the things gleaned from Genkis products was a mock-up of the Nintendo Switch 2, which indicated that the console would be bigger than the original Nintendo Switch. These details, however, have since proven to not be reliable, since Nintendo itself is yet to confirm the dimensions of its next console. Genkis accessories also indicated that the Switch 2s JoyCons would use a new magnetic system to attach to the console for handheld mode, with a new, larger button to detatch JoyCons resting under the triggers.Aside from Genkis presence at CES 2025, there have been several other leaks about the Nintendo Switch 2 recently, with the most recent one giving us a look at what might be the new logo for the console. Similar to the original Switch logo, the new Switch 2 logo will also feature a prominent 2.Other recent leaks indicate that the Switch 2 will not be compatible with the originals charger. A photo of its dock also indicates that the system will be more power hungry when docked, which indicates that it might have more horsepower under the hood. The new charger for the Switch 2 will seemingly output higher voltages.The Switch 2 is also expected to have its own take on image upscaling technology in the vein of Nvidias DLSS, according to a recently-discovered patent filing. The patent indicates that the console will outfitted with its own neural net processor, allowing it to make use of AI to upscale low-resolution images at resolutions of up to 4K for use with modern TVs.Whenever it launches, the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to be successful. According to Circana analyst Mat Piscatella, 4.3 million units of the Switch 2 are expected to be sold in the US alone by the end of the year. A rumour from December indicates that Nintendo will officially unveil the console at an event in May, with a launch happening in June.

Chris Kerr, News EditorJanuary 10, 20252 Min ReadImage via Square EnixSquare Enix is prepared to take legal action against those who harass or intimidate its employees.The Final Fantasy maker has updated its Group Customer Harassment Policy and confirmed it could withhold its products and services from anybody who harasses its workers or even begin criminal proceedings."Should Square Enix determine that an individual has engaged in an action against one of our employees or partners that exceeds socially acceptable behavior or is harmful, we reserve our right to cease providing support services or to refrain from providing our group's products and services," reads the policy."Where such action is egregious or with malicious intent, Square Enix reserves its right to protect its employees and partners and to take legal action or criminal proceedings upon consulting the police and/or lawyers."The Japanese publisher said harassment includes acts of violence, abusive language and intimidation, defamation and personal attacks (including emails), discriminatory speech and conduct, and sexual harassment.It also warned that undue demand in the form of unreasonable requests for compensation and excessive demands for the punishment of employees could also result in it taking action.Square Enix throws down the gauntlet in a bid to curb toxicitySquare said it remains open to feedback, comments, and other requests but noted there have been instances where some customers have directed harassment towards its executives, employees, and partners."Such actions do not only prevent our employees and partners from engaging in their work with a sense of security but also causes disruptions to other customers," it added. "Square Enix will not tolerate harassment and will take action as necessary."Last year, the 2023 GDC State of the Industry survey found the vast majority of developers are concerned about targeted harassment from players. Of those surveyed, 91 percent of respondents said they felt toxicity directed towards studio employees was an issue.Those findings came after major companies such as Sony Santa Monica and Respawn openly called out toxic player behaviour, with Respawn specifically stating it had seen "increased harassment towards members of our development team."Read more about:Square EnixAbout the AuthorChris KerrNews Editor, GameDeveloper.comGame Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, andPocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.See more from Chris KerrDaily news, dev blogs, and stories from Game Developer straight to your inboxStay UpdatedYou May Also Like

Image: Alex Parkin / The Verge CES is a TV show. And a car show. And a wearables show. And this year, oddly, kind of a pool-vacuum show? It is the biggest, most elaborate, most bizarre tech show of the year, during which practically the whole industry flies to Las Vegas to show off new stuff and make big deals. On this episode of The Vergecast, a special live edition of the show from the Brooklyn Bowl in Las Vegas, we talk through as much of it as we can. (Thanks to everyone who came out, by the way! So much to get to see and hang out with all of you.) We actually begin the show with a story that didnt start at CES but took over the week anyway: Metas about-face on fact checking and content moderation. After that, we get into Samsungs new Frame Pro TV, the end of Dells XPS brand, Sonys bizarrely expensive Afeela car, and more.After that, The Verges Allison Johnson, Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, and Victoria Song join us on stage to talk about what they saw at the show. We talk about phone toasters, robot vacuums, smart locks, smart glasses, Max Ink Mode, and lots more. Will anything we saw this week ever ship, and will any of it be any good? Who knows! But thats the fun of CES. Its a fever dream, a... Read the full story at The Verge.

An aircraft helping to fight wildfires that are raging across Los Angeles was struck by a civilian drone on Thursday. The collision damaged the wing of the aircraft a CL-415 Super Scooper capable of scooping up 1,600 gallons of ocean water to drop onto nearby blazes according to a statement by the LA County Fire Department posted on X, putting it out of service until it can be repaired.Cal Fire spokesman Chris Thomas told The New York Times that grounding the aircraft will likely set back local firefighting efforts. Super Scoopers can typically refill in about five minutes. But even if it takes ten, thats six water drops that are lost each hour according to Thomas. So whose house is not going to get that water to protect it? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) says the Super Scooper landed safely after the drone impact, and that the incident is now under investigation. Temporary flight restrictions have been implemented in the Los Angeles area that prohibit drones and other aircraft from flying without FAA authorization in an effort to protect firefighting efforts.According to LA County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone, the drone was not assigned to help tackle the Palisades fires, and was destroyed in the collision. Marrone told the LA Times that the FBI is now planning to implement so-called aerial armor in the area to prevent further interference from drones.Several people online have violated the FAA-enforced flight restrictions, posting viral drone photos and video footage across social media showing the devastation from what appears to be prohibited airspace. Fire response agencies are often forced to ground their own aircraft to avoid collisions when dummies fly drones near wildfires for online clout.Its a federal crime, punishable by up to 12 months in prison, to interfere with firefighting efforts on public lands, the FAA said in a statement. Additionally, the FAA can impose a civil penalty of up to $75,000 against any drone pilot who interferes with wildfire suppression, law enforcement or emergency response operations. The FAA treats these violations seriously and immediately considers swift enforcement action for these offenses.

Venu, the live sports streaming service from ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery, isnt happening. In a joint statement on Friday, the three companies announced the decision not to move forward with the contemplated joint venture:After careful consideration, we have collectively agreed to discontinue the Venu Sports joint venture and not launch the streaming service. In an ever-changing marketplace, we determined that it was best to meet the evolving demands of sports fans by focusing on existing products and distribution channels. We are proud of the work that has been done on Venu to date and grateful to the Venu staff, whom we will support through this transition period.ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery first announced Venu last year, and it was supposed to launch in the fall of 2024. The service wouldve given viewers access to a swath of live games from the NFL, NBA, NHL, NCAA, and more from several linear channels, including ESPN, ABC, Fox, Fox Sports 1, Fox Sports 2, TNT,and others.But then Venu hit a legal roadblock: an antitrust lawsuit from the live TV streaming service Fubo, accusing the trio of engaging in a years-long campaign to block Fubos innovative sports-first streaming business due to restrictive sports licensing agreements. Lawmakers also asked regulators to investigate Venu and its potential to become a monopoly in televised sports.RelatedLast August, a federal judge sided with Fubo and temporarily blocked Venus launch. Things seemed to settle when Disney agreed to merge Hulu + Live TV with Fubo, leading Fubo to drop its lawsuit. However, DirecTV and EchoStar, both of which raised concerns about the launch of Venu, werent happy about Fubos decision to settle. Its not clear what will become of the Fubo and Hulu + Live TV deal, and Fubo declined to comment.