Google will no longer chargeWorkspacecustomers an additional fee for Gemini, expanding access to generative AI(genAI)features in apps such as Gmail, Docs,and Sheets. At the same time,the companyis increasingthe price of Workspace subscriptions by a small amount.Google is disrupting a market while some application vendors are still trying to monetize generative AI, said Wayne Kurtzman, research vice presidentfor collaboration andcommunities at IDC.Itsan unusually bold first move by Google, one that should result in paid user growth of their Workspace platform.We are moving to an economy where we will experience AI everywhere, so it makes sense that we see AI included in office and collaboration applications, said Kurtzman.Googlelaunched its Gemini AI assistant(formerly Duet AI for Google Workspace) in August 2023. There were two main add-ons:Gemini Businesspriced at $20 per userpermonth, and Gemini Enterprise, which cost $30 per userpermonth.Each representeda significant outlay for Workspace customers on top of their core subscriptions;Google later introducedmore affordable add-on optionsthat provided a limited set ofgenAI tools: AI Meetings and Messages and AI Security, both costing $10 per user a month.All ofthosesubscription costs willendas of March 17, Googlesaidin ablog post Wednesday.Instead, Gemini features will be included in regular paid Workspace plans from the Business Standard plan upwards.Thatwill allowaccess to Gemini in the side panel of several Workspace apps, as well as automated note taking in Meet video calls, image generation in Docs and Slides, and access to theNotebookLM Plus app.(Google has a detailed list of the AI features available and coming soon to each payment planatitsadmin help site here.)At the same time, the price of payment plans will increase. Business Standard willrisefrom $12 to $14 per user each month when paid on an annual basis;Business Plus customers will see a more substantial increasefrom $18 to $22 per user a month. The Business Starter plan, which will provide access to limited Gemini capabilities, willgofrom $6 to $7 per user a month.Google doesnt provide details on the Workspace Enterprise tier publically.The change to pricing will begintoday, Google said.The movecouldbeseenas the commodification ofgenAI;more than two yearsafterChatGPT 3.5 launched, AI assistant tools have become common and vendors haveshifted their attention to moreadvanced AI agents. OrGooglemay have moved onfromits attempt to convince customers to pay a premium for Gemini over and above the base subscription costs.While theres an element of truth to both, Googles sales channel and customers may well celebrate, J.P. Gownder, vice president and principal analyst on Forresters Future of Work team,saidin ablog post abouttheannouncement.One implication of the decision is to makegenAItoolsavailable to all employeeswithaccess to Workspace;due to the high per-user cost, many customersmight have beenselective about handing out licenses,dividing knowledge workers intoAI haves and have-nots.This pricing change effectively removes a companys need to determine who will get an AI productivity boost, and who will not, said Kurtzman. This should expand the number of paid seats of Google Workspace,as the value prop of usability and AI are clear.It could also convince more companies to switch to the paid version of Workspace.Many companies still use the free version of Google Workspace toaccess collaborative features that their current applications do not support, said Kurtzman. The inclusion of AI and a price point much lower than manycompetitors should result in additional paid users to Google Workspace.Googles move will clearly put pressure on Microsoftwhich charges $30 per user a month for its M365 Copilot add-onto follow suit, as well as otherproductivity softwarevendors that charge an extra fee for access togenAI capabilities.(Zoom is a notable exception, having included its AI Companion in its apps at no extra cost since launch.)As the cost of running large language models(LLMs) drops, this isanatural direction of travel: Gartneranalystshave said they expectgenAI features to be included at no extra cost in office software subscriptions by 2028, according to arecent report(subscription required), as vendors seek broader adoption of their tools.Price cutswill likely spur wider adoption. Microsoft has found it difficult to convince large numbers of customers to adoptitsM365 Copilot widely across their organizations, with subscription costsone of the barriers. Microsoft has already bundled Copilot into consumer M365subscriptions in some countriesandwilllikely do the same for business customerseventually.How long can Microsoft hold the line and for how long on $30/user/month? Were betting the pricing strategy evolves, said Gownder.

This is todays edition ofThe Download,our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology.What to expect from Neuralink in 2025In November, a young man named Noland Arbaugh announced hed be livestreaming from his home for three days straight. His broadcast was in some ways typical fare: a backyard tour, video games, meet mom.The difference is that Arbaugh, who is paralyzed, has thin electrode-studded wires installed in his brain, which he used to move a computer mouse on a screen, click menus, and play chess. The implant, called N1, was installed last year by neurosurgeons working with Neuralink, Elon Musks brain-interface company.Arbaughs livestream is an indicator that Neuralink is a whole lot closer to creating a plug-and-play experience that can restore peoples daily ability to roam the web and play games, giving them what the company has called digital freedom.But this is not yet a commercial product. The current studies are small-scalethey are true experiments, explorations of how the device works and how it can be improved. Read on for our analysis of what to expect from the company in 2025.Antonio RegaladoMetas new AI model can translate speech from more than 100 languagesWhats new: Meta has released a new AI model that can translate speech from 101 different languages. It represents a step toward real-time, simultaneous interpretation, where words are translated as soon as they come out of someones mouth.Why it matters: Typically, translation models for speech use a multistep approach which can be inefficient, and at each step, errors and mistranslations can creep in. But Metas new model, called SeamlessM4T, enables more direct translation from speech in one language to speech in another. Read the full story.Scott J MulliganInterest in nuclear power is surging. Is it enough to build new reactors?Lately, the vibes have been good for nuclear power. Public support is building, and public and private funding have made the technology more economical in key markets. Theres also a swell of interest from major companies looking to power their data centers.These shifts have been great for existing nuclear plants. Were seeing efforts to boost their power output, extend the lifetime of old reactors, and even reopen facilities that have shut down. Thats good news for climate action, because nuclear power plants produce consistent electricity with very low greenhouse-gas emissions.I covered all these trends in my latest story, which digs into whats next for nuclear power in 2025 and beyond. But as I spoke with experts, one central question kept coming up for me: Will all of this be enough to actually get new reactors built?Casey CrownhartThis article is from The Spark, MIT Technology Reviews weekly climate and energy newsletter. To receive it in your inbox every Wednesday, sign up here.The must-readsIve combed the internet to find you todays most fun/important/scary/fascinating stories about technology.1 Donald Trump is exploring how to save TikTokAn executive order could suspend its ban or sale by up to 90 days. (WP $)+ But questions remain over the legality of such a move. (Axios)+ YouTuber MrBeast has said hes interested in buying the app. (Insider $)+ The depressing truth about TikToks impending ban. (MIT Technology Review)2 Blue Origins New Glenn rocket has made it into spaceBut it lost a booster along the way. (The Verge)3 Angelenos are naming and shaming landlords for illegal price gougingA grassroots Google Sheet is tracking rentals with significant price increases among the wild fires. (Fast Company $)4 How the Trump administration will shake up defense techIts likely to favor newer players over established firms for lucrative contracts. (FT $)+ Weapons startup Anduril plans to build a $1 billion factory in Ohio. (Axios)+ Palmer Luckey on the Pentagons future of mixed reality. (MIT Technology Review)5 The difference between mistakes made by humans and AIMachines errors are a whole lot weirder, for a start. (IEEE Spectrum)+ A new public database lists all the ways AI could go wrong. (MIT Technology Review)6 The creator economy is bouncing backFunding for creator startups is rising, after two years in the doldrums. (The Information $)7 Predicting the future of tech is notoriously toughBut asking better initial questions is a good place to start. (WSJ $)8 IVF isnt just for combating fertility problems any moreIts becoming a tool for genetic screening before a baby is even born. (The Atlantic $)+ Three-parent baby technique could create babies at risk of severe disease. (MIT Technology Review)9 The killer caterpillars could pave the way to better medicine Studying their toxic secretions could help create new drugs more quickly. (Knowable Magazine)10 How to document your life digitallyIf physical diaries arent for you, there are plenty of smartphone-based options. (NYT $)Quote of the dayAmericans may only be able to watch as their app rots.Joseph Lorenzo Hall, a technologist at the nonprofit Internet Society, tells Reuters how TikToks complicated network of service providers means that the app could fall apart gradually, rather than all at once, if the proposed US ban goes ahead.The big storyHow refrigeration ruined fresh foodOctober 2024Three-quarters of everything in the average American diet passes through the cold chainthe network of warehouses, shipping containers, trucks, display cases, and domestic fridges that keep meat, milk, and more chilled on the journey from farm to fork.As consumers, we put a lot of faith in terms like fresh and natural, but artificial refrigeration has created a blind spot. Weve gotten so good at preserving (and storing) food, that we know more about how to lengthen an apples life span than a humans, and most of us dont give that extraordinary process much thought at all. But all that convenience has come at the expense of diversity and deliciousness. Read the full story.Allison ArieffWe 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 biggest and best tours of 2025 look really exciting (especially Oasis!)+ If you love classic mobile phones, you need to check out Aalto Universitys newly launched Nokia Design Archive immediately.+ The one and only Ridley Scott explains how a cigarette inspired that iconic hand-in-wheat shot in Gladiator.+ Set aside your reading goals for the yearyour only aim should be to read the books you really want to.

Insta360 has developed a gimbal designed specifically for iPhone users, featuring Apple DockKit integration and AI-powered tracking capabilities.Insta360 Flow 2 Pro GimbalOne of the most frustrating parts about smartphone gimbals is that they often require you to shoot through a third-party app, many of which aren't designed well. Insta360 has solved this problem by utilizing Apple DockKit, which enables native shooting through the iPhone's built-in Camera app.If you're not a fan of shooting through the Camera app, the Flow 2 Pro also supports shooting on over 200 third-party apps, including Blackmagic. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

A coalition of major arts organizations and philanthropists led by the J. Paul Getty Trust has established an emergency relief fund for artists and art workers who have lost residences, studios, and livelihoods or have otherwise been impacted by the latest majorLos Angeles fires. The LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund has launched with $12 million and is expected to continue growing, with donations made through the Getty website.Among the organizations involved in the funds launch are the Mohn Art Collective (Hammer Museum, LACMA, and MOCA), as well as East West Bank, the Mellon Foundation, Qatar Museums, the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. The fund will be administered by the Center for Cultural Innovation, a longstanding intermediary providing funding, advocacy, and research support on behalf of individuals in the arts.From January 20, artists and art workers from all disciplines who have been impacted by...

These annual rankings were last updated on January 16, 2025. Want to see your firm on next years list? Continue reading for more on how you can improve your studios ranking.Following the dramatic political changes of the 20th century, a branch of modernist thinking made its way to Vietnams architectural landscape. Locals began to embrace this new wave of modernist architecture as a form of self-expression that differentiated itself from past colonial design. Vietnamese architects found unique ways to express themselves in an increasingly international structural language. Concrete, glass and metal took precedence over the past favoring wood, and modern structures began to appear especially in Ho Chi Minh City which attracted foreign business, bolstering the countrys urbanization and featuring site-specific architecture and biophilic design.Like anywhere in the world, Vietnamese architecture is not only informed by its governance and faith but also the local climate. Regionally speaking, the architecture differs to accommodate specific climatic conditions. In the highlands and midlands, for example, one will find stilted homes that accommodate the regions rain-prone conditions, whereas traditional one-storied dwellings are found in the regions dryer lands. Such a hybrid blend of architectural styles and diverse topography makes for a fascinating yet widely diverse built environment.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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam architecture firms throughout the year.Without further ado, here are the 30 best architecture firms in Vietnam:31. Vo Huu Linh Architects Vo Huu Linh ArchitectsVHLArchitects is a consulting architecture design firm located in Vietnam. We work in all project stages from the conceptual idea to its development as well as all in the construction stage and supervision. VHLArchitects follow guidelines to ensure that all projects that are designed in high quality.Some of Vo Huu Linh Architectss most prominent projects include:Red Flower Coffee Shop, Hi Chu District, Da Nang, VietnamPHONGHOUSE Awaken the abandoned house Project, Cm L District, Da Nang, VietnamParametric Bench design, Hi Chu District, Da Nang, VietnamHOUSING FOR WORKER, Bnh Dng, tp. Th Du Mt, VietnamBF House, Da Nang, Vietnam The following statistics helped Vo Huu Linh Architects achieve 31st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 75 30. LVHQ LVHQLVHQ is an architecture studio based in Vietnam that specializes in residential and commercial architecture.Some of LVHQs most prominent projects include:F-coffee, ng Hi, VietnamO-House, tt. Lng, Lng, Ngh An, Vietnam The following statistics helped LVHQ achieve 30th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 2 29. the bloom architects the bloom architectsThe Bloom Architects company specializes in designing and constructing residence, cafes, restaurants and hotels.Some of the bloom architects most prominent projects include:Tile House, Vietnamm, 60, Quang Trung, thnh ph Bo Lc, Vietnam117, VietnamNguyn, Bo Lc, Vietnam The following statistics helped the bloom architects achieve 29th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 4 28. Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates Nguyen Khai Architects & AssociatesNguyen Khai Architects & Associates is an architecture and interior design studio based in Hue, Vietnam. Its work is centered around residential architecture.Some of Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates most prominent projects include:Labri, Hue, VietnamTiam, Hue, VietnamH.A House, Hue, VietnamNala, Hue, Vietnam% Arabica Ho Chi Minh City Roastery, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped Nguyen Khai Architects & Associates achieve 28th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 5 27. MAS Architecture MAS ArchitectureEstablished in 2013 by Founding Principal and Design Director Nguyen Cong Thanh, MAS Architecture is a design studio operating in fields of project consulting, architectural design, interior design, landscape design, and product design. Our orientation is building a solution called \The Circle\ an ecological chain of services to create a cohesive spatial experience.MAS Architectures vision is pursuing the spirit of minimalist architecture, connecting the order of spaces, expressing the essence of light and structure. Our design philosophy is creating projects whose architecture conveys the spiritual essence of place and cultural identity of the region. With each step of development, we specialize in consulting high-rise buildings and hospitality projects.MAS Architecture consults and provides a comprehensive solution called The Circle in creating a project.Some of MAS Architectures most prominent projects include:STELLA Residence, Da Nang, VietnamDKS House, VietnamVIETSING Kindergarten and Elementary School, Vinh, VietnamM HSH, VietnamDRACO Hotel & Suite, Da Nang, Vietnam The following statistics helped MAS Architecture achieve 27th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 10 26. Sunjin Vietnam Joint Venture Company Sunjin Vietnam Joint Venture CompanySunjin Vietnam Joint Venture Company was officially established in 2004 on the basis of a joint venture with Sunjin E&A Design Group (Korea). Currently, Sunjin Vietnam Joint Venture Company is one of the leading architectural design and urban planning consulting company in Vietnam. With the guidelines PROFESSIONALS CREATIVE DYNAMIC, in recent years, the company has built a large team of experts included native and international architects and engineers who had professional level and synchronous many design consultancy categories.Some of Sunjin Vietnam Joint Venture Companys most prominent projects include:Dich Vong Hau Kindergarten, Hanoi, VietnamSunflower Kindergarten, Hanoi, VietnamCau Giay Secondary School, Hanoi, VietnamTRAN DUY HUNG SECONDARY SCHOOL, Vietnam The following statistics helped Sunjin Vietnam Joint Venture Company achieve 26th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 1 Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 4 25. INFINITIVE ARCHITECTURE INFINITIVE ARCHITECTUREInfinitive Architecture is a professional practice founded in 2008. The firm has gained exposure as a prestigious design firm based in Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam. Known for its expertise in architecture, interior design, planning, and landscape projects, the office has made significant progress in commercial, golf club, hospitality, residential, F&B, and venue design projects. In recent years, Infinitive Architecture has focused on environmentally friendly constructions, enhancing the quality of space with a direction towards Healthy Building concepts.The firm has been awarded numerous global design awards, with its works reflecting a commitment to improving the quality of life and lifestyle, and conveying a message of harmony with nature, energy saving, promotion of technology, easy access to greenery, and the inheritance of traditional values in architecture design.Some of INFINITIVE ARCHITECTUREs most prominent projects include:THE VIBES CO-SPACE, Qun 2, Thnh ph H Ch Minh, VietnamPHU HAI MANGROVE ECOLOGICAL PARK, Phan Thiet, VietnamXuan Thanh Golf Clubhouse, H Tnh, VietnamThe Indigo Driving Range, Bt Xt, Lo Cai, VietnamThe Nostalgia Hall, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped INFINITIVE ARCHITECTURE achieve 25th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 1 A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 5 24. CONG SINH ARCHITECTS Quang TranCongSinh is the creative team, in that each member has won the national and international architecture awards; has the best conditions to express their proficiency.With high responsibility, each project is teams dedication and seriously working with the wishing to create more nice architectural works for society. It is also to satisfy the passion and career love of every member of CongSinh.Customer satisfaction is the golden key to open our next success!Some of CONG SINH ARCHITECTS most prominent projects include:The Gills, H Ch Minh, VietnamKaleidoscope, Ho Chi Minh, VietnamVegetable Trellis, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped CONG SINH ARCHITECTS achieve 24th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 3 23. SILAA SILAASILAA architects is a Vietnamese architecture studio, based in the city of Hu. the firm focuses primarily on residential and hospitality projects.Some of SILAAs most prominent projects include:SAHI W&D, Hue, VietnamSahi Homestay Retreat, Hue, VietnamHachi Homestay & Spa / Hachi Lily House, VietnamHachi Homestay & Spa / Hachi Pomelo House, Vietnam The following statistics helped SILAA achieve 23rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 4 22. Chi.Arch Chi.ArchChi.Arch is an innovative Aachitecture, interior, landscape design studio in Vietnam led by principal architects Mr. Truong Minh Tung and Mrs. Ho Nguyen Thuy Quynh. The company was born in Quy Nhon, Vietnam in 2019, but we work in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam. We are a small team with around 10 members. Architecture is a profession with many advantages when working online, so we organize work with many partners in the localities where the works are built in order to control and supervise them. We focus on building all kinds of houses, schools, libraries, resorts, cafes and restaurants, service works and more with the goal of bringing nature into the building through light, trees and ventilation.Some of Chi.Archs most prominent projects include:LN-House, VietnamQH-Villa, Qui Nhn, VietnamWATER BOTTLING PLANT, Nha Trang, VietnamPOPTECH-OFFICE, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamVOOC Village, Vietnam The following statistics helped Chi.Arch achieve 22nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 8 21. Space+ Architecture Space+ ArchitectureSpace+ Architecture is an architecture firm based in Vietnam. Its work includes mainly residential projects.Some of Space+ Architectures most prominent projects include:Flexible Facade House, Can Tho, VietnamSun house, VietnamVilla D15, VietnamK-Villa+, Vietnam3become1 House, Vietnam The following statistics helped Space+ Architecture achieve 21st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 8 20. mw archstudio mw archstudioMW archstudio is a practice based in Ho Chi Minh city, Nha Trang city, and Hue city, Vietnam. The firm offers professional services in masterplanning, architecture and interior design.Some of mw archstudios most prominent projects include:Thao Ho Home Furnishings, VietnamNatural breeze & lighting symphony, Nha Trang, VietnamThe flow of time, Hue, Vietnam204 House, Nha Trang, VietnamLotus House, Hue, Vietnam The following statistics helped mw archstudio achieve 20th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 1 Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 7 19. CTA Creative Architects CTA - Creative ArchitectsCTA stands for Creative Architects, was founded in 2018, is a group of young architects, architectural activities with the spirit of learning and promoting creativity, in order to create experiences, interesting in the architectural space. Besides architectural activities, CTA also has academic, research and creative activities to create solutions to overcome outstanding issues of society today.Some of CTA Creative Architects most prominent projects include:Am house, Cn Giuc, Vietnam2Hien, Ty Ninh, VietnamC6, Dong Nai, VietnamWallhouse, Bien Hoa, VietnamT house, D An, Vietnam The following statistics helped CTA - Creative Architects achieve 19th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 8 18. Inrestudio InrestudioInrestudio is an architectural design studio based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Led by a Japanese architect Kosuke Nishijima, the studio aims to discover new architecture specific to Vietnamese culture based on international perspectives. The studios design philosophy is represented by its name in re, which can be interpreted as in relation. As it signifies, the studio engages itself in not only what we design but also what we design about, valuing the understanding of environment where each project is situated, in order to propose longstanding designs in the rapidly growing society.Some of Inrestudios most prominent projects include:The Kaleidoscope, Quang Binh Province, VietnamThe Gamelle, Quang Binh Province, VietnamThe Proscenium, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamThe Rouge, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamThe Sauvage, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped Inrestudio achieve 18th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 2 Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 5 17. 23o5 Studio 23o5 StudioWe, the young architects with enthusiasm of creative labour, with a strong heart and a violent passion, always cherished to create the novel projects and the worth spaces.Some of 23o5 Studios most prominent projects include:Lc House, Tn An, Th Du Mt, VietnamUp2green, Li Thiu, tx. Thun An, VietnamThe Memory, Tn An, tp. Th Du Mt, VietnamThe Longcave, Tr n, Tr n, Vnh Long, VietnamBQ-17, Bnh Chnh, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam The following statistics helped 23o5 Studio achieve 17th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 6 16. 85 Design 85 Design85 Design is an architecture studio in DaNang city, Vietnam, whose work is centered around residential architecture.Some of 85 Designs most prominent projects include:VUx House, Da Nang, VietnamWaves House, Tam K, VietnamTH house, Da Nang, VietnamMilos House, Da Nang, Vietnam85 coffee house, Sn Tr, Nng, Vietnam The following statistics helped 85 Design achieve 16th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 7 15. Pham Huu Son Architects Pham Huu Son ArchitectsLed by Pham Huu Son Architect, the PHSA team is young, dynamic, with a range of personal interests and specialities. We focused about simplicity, modernity and sustainable green architecture.Some of Pham Huu Son Architects most prominent projects include:Bi House, A green resort at home! , Nha Trang, VietnamSanto by the Sea villa, Ninh Ha, VietnamSanto by the sea Villa (final version), Ninh Ha, VietnamSkyGarden House, Nha Trang, VietnamLieden Homestay, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped Pham Huu Son Architects achieve 15th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 8 14. KIENTRUC O Hiroyuki OkiKIENTRUC O is an architectural firm based in HCMC, Vietnam. Lead by a dynamic duo DAM VU and ANNI LE. Its mission is to create architecture that facilitates and embrace a coherent symbiosis between human and the environment. The firm seeks for architectural manifestation as a collective result of keen observations and thoughtful application of local architecture, its people and their cultural tradition, all of which to achieve a harmonious relationship that satisfy human needs and stimulate coexistence between human and the natural ecology.Some of KIENTRUC Os most prominent projects include:B MON PRESCHOOL The idea of a connecting station, Sn La, VietnamCHUON CHUON KIM 2 KINDERGARTEN, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamHOUSE 304, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamCHUON CHUON KIM KINDERGARTEN, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamLayerscape-VAS Office, Da Nang, Vietnam The following statistics helped KIENTRUC O achieve 14th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 2 Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 8 13. Block Architects Block ArchitectsAt Block Architects, we undertake a complete solution, covering all stages of design. We actualize projects that possess sustainable values, tremendous vitality and satisfy the human demand for harmony and respect.Some of Block Architects most prominent projects include:OldMeetsNew House, Tr Vinh, VietnamDuyen Casa II, Cao Lnh, VietnamVegan House, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamLee&Tee House, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamTHE GAPS APARTMENT, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped Block Architects achieve 13th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 5 12. 07BEACH 07BEACH07BEACH was founded by in 2011 Joe Chikamori, who moved to Vietnam from Japan to grow his practice. He enjoys the freedom to experiment with architecture in Vietnam. Chikamori oversees every part of the design process, which ensures good work is produced for his clients every time.Some of 07BEACHs most prominent projects include:Cheese Tart Shop BAKE in Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamSushi restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, H Ch Minh, VietnamRamen Bar SuzukiHouse in Kyoto, Kyoto, JapanHouse Renovation In Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped 07BEACH achieve 12th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 2 A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 7 11. atelier tho.A atelier tho.Aatelier tho.A was founded in 2015. Here, every day we share our belief in a no-architectural architectural practice. Architecture retreats behind, as a background, on which activities are freely shown and life continues proliferating. For us, architecture is part of an ecosystem. Its focus is on architectural practice by interrelated activities, including theoretical research (Alab), interior design studios (S.norm) and materials manufacturing (Xay Solution), etc. In particular, at the beginning of each project, Alab provides the database and direction for the designs. At the end of the chain, S.norm utilizes the built space as a given context from which unique and conceptually rich interior products would be created.Some of atelier tho.As most prominent projects include:Dali office, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamFA house, Dalat, VietnamTien Giang house, Tien Giang, VietnamGammas office renovation, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamLib house, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped atelier tho.A achieve 11th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 6 Total Projects 7 10. Nghia-Architect Nghia-ArchitectNghia-Architect was founded in Hanoi in 2016. We are a young and creative architectural firm dedicated to creating sustainable architecture and high quality designs. We approach our design through both Asian and European principles in order to create a contemporary Vietnamese architectural language.Some of Nghia-Architects most prominent projects include:Maison A, VietnamMaison T, Hanoi, VietnamMaison TL, Hanoi, VietnamMAISON Q, Hong Mai, Hanoi, VietnamVilla LP, Ba V, Hanoi, Vietnam The following statistics helped Nghia-Architect achieve 10th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 6 Total Projects 10 9. AD+studio AD+studioAD+studio is a small architectural firm expressing the pride of Vietnamese cultural identity through its design. Not paying attention to generating a unique architectural language, our buildings integrate the abundance of construction context with the differences in the users lifestyle habits. Diversified local culture and lifestyle of each individual which are aroused and conveyed to the main works are the rich sources defining the characteristics of our architectures. We would like to draw the vitality of the works: colorful and motive as always.Some of AD+studios most prominent projects include:THE UMBRELLA, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamStacking-Roof House, Thi Nguyn, VietnamBACKYARD house, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamBOUNDARY house, Binh Duong, VietnamSTACKING BOX, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped AD+studio achieve 9th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 6 Total Projects 12 8. a21 studio a21 studioEstablished in 2009, a small group of designers wishes to bring their conception of life to the surroundings by architecture.Some of a21 studios most prominent projects include:The Tent 1, Natural Heritage Area Trang, VietnamThe Cloud, Natural Heritage Area Trang, VietnamThe Tent 2, Natural Heritage Area Trang, VietnamSaigon House, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamThe Nest, Binh Duong, Vietnam The following statistics helped a21 studio achieve 8th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 12 7. 1+1>2 Architects 1+1>2 Architects1+1>2 was founded in 2015 by Hoang Thuc Hao. We are a reality-focused firm dedicated to providing exceptional and personalized design services. Our work aims to make a lasting contribution to the urban and natural context by challenging, provoking and exciting. We pay great attention to our material choices and the influence of light in architecture.Some of 1+1>2 Architects most prominent projects include:Chieng Yen Community House, Mc Chu, Sn La, VietnamDao School, Lao Cai, VietnamMothers House , Sn Ty, VietnamBottle Sail, Sn, Haiphong, VietnamCam Thanh Community House, tp. Hi An, Vietnam The following statistics helped 1+1>2 Architects achieve 7th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 8 Total Projects 9 6. MIA Design Studio MIA Design StudioMIA Design Studio is an innovative master planning, architecture, and interior design studio in Asia and was leading by Mr. Nguyen Hoang Manh as principal architect. The company was born in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam in 2003. Presently, MIA Design Studio employs 50 regular members of staff, among which are architects, landscape architects, interior designers and technicians. Furthermore, the company frequently collaborates with various freelance associates (civil engineers, mechanical engineers, lightning and acoustic consultants, graphic and textile designers, artists, etc.), who are selectively incorporated in the composition of the design team, accordingly to the specific requirements of the project.The team of architects and designers with great admirers of the modernist movement seeks to fulfill the difficult task of rethinking and giving continuity to this iconic generation.Some of MIA Design Studios most prominent projects include:Naman Retreat Pure Spa, Da Nang, VietnamVilla Tan Dinh, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamWyndham Phu Quoc, Phu Quoc, VietnamSky House, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamThe Straw, Th c, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped MIA Design Studio achieve 6th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 4 A+Awards Finalist 2 Featured Projects 8 Total Projects 10 5. idee architects Vietnam idee architects VietnamPrincipal Architects Tran Ngoc Linh, Nguyen Huy Hai. Established in 2010, Idee Architect is a professional company in architectural, interior, resort and house design. The main goal of the company is: to become the first class architect company and bring Vietnamese Architecture to the World. Design perspective: Simplicity, focusing on the pure beauty and simplicity. IDEE practices to design on the projects with the scale ranging from small to large. We always look towards nature and are interested in the affection of the design on environment improvement as well as the humans awareness. Through many years, we have won many honor awards and many of our projects are published in newspapers worldwide.Some of idee architects Vietnams most prominent projects include:Kabuchin Penthouse, Hanoi, VietnamMian Farm Cottage, Kim Sn, Sn Ty, H Ni, VietnamHouse under the Pines, Hanoi, VietnamCam Hai House, Cam Ranh, VietnamVH6 House, Hanoi, Vietnam The following statistics helped idee architects Vietnam achieve 5th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 11 Total Projects 22 4. MM++ Architects / MIMYA MM++ Architects / MIMYAFrom traditional to contemporary architecture, from high end to low cost solutions, from small to XXL scale, our practice is based on three core principles: create beautiful space for everyday life, stay free of ready-made solutions, and embrace a collaborative creative process.My An Pham Thi, Architect, graduated from University of Hanoi. After more than 10 years of practice in different international architecture offices she founded Mimya co. ( MM++ architects ) in Ho Chi Minh City in 2009 with the continuing goal to design an architecture, affordable, adapted to its environment, taking advantage of the tropical weather conditions and bringing to its inhabitants a unique living experience, close to nature. Michael Charruault, Architect, graduated from the French architecture school Paris-Belleville.Some of MM++ Architects / MIMYAs most prominent projects include:Go Vap House, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamSTONE HOUSE, Nha Trang, VietnamPattern House, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamD2 Town House, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamOceanique Villas, Phan Thiet, Vietnam The following statistics helped MM++ Architects / MIMYA achieve 4th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: Featured Projects 11 Total Projects 15 3. TROPICAL SPACE TROPICAL SPACETROPICAL SPACE is an architecture firm based in Ho Chi Minh city, founded by architect Nguyen Hai Long and Tran Thi Ngu Ngon. We are specialized in designing and planning from master planning, urban design, architecture, landscape and interior design. With a deep understanding in Vietnams culture and climate, Tropical Space is committed to encouraging the clients toward the use of environmentally friendly, building practices and sustainable material selection. Tropical Space is confident to satisfy clients with innovative and unique designs while ensuring to deliver the projects on time and budget.Some of TROPICAL SPACEs most prominent projects include:Terra Cotta Studio, Quang Nam Province, VietnamORGANICARE SHOWROOM, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamTERMITARY HOUSE, Da Nang, VietnamLONG AN HOUSE, Long An Province, VietnamCUCKOO HOUSE, Da Nang, Vietnam The following statistics helped TROPICAL SPACE achieve 3rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 3 Featured Projects 10 Total Projects 14 2. H&P Architects H&P ArchitectsH&P Architects (HPA) was established in Vietnam in 2009 by architect groups, engineers, planners and project managers. H&P Architects goal is to provide professional solutions to customers. This is demonstrated through multiple investment categories: office, residential, hotel, resort, hospital, private housing, planning and urban design as well as industrial, educational and infrastructure. H&P Architects is committed to meeting the needs and wants of each individual customer with a total solution to satisfy the highest standards of quality projects as well as economic efficiency.Some of H&P Architects most prominent projects include:Brick Cave, VietnamCheering restaurant, Hanoi, VietnamToigetation, Cao Bang, VietnamBE friendly space, VietnamBlooming Bamboo Home, H Ni, Vietnam The following statistics helped H&P Architects achieve 2nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 6 A+Awards Finalist 3 Featured Projects 11 Total Projects 18 1. Vo Trong Nghia Architects Hiroyuki OkiEstablished in 2006, VTN Architects (Vo Trong Nghia Architects) is a leading architectural practice in Vietnam with offices in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. All employees work closely on cultural, residential and commercial projects around the world. By experimenting with light, wind and water, as well as using natural and local materials, VTN Architects uses contemporary design vocabulary to explore new ways to create architecture.Some of Vo Trong Nghia Architects most prominent projects include:Featured image: Stepping Park House, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamNocenco Cafe, Vinh, VietnamTorus HouseBinh House, Ho Chi Minh City, VietnamStepping Park House, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam The following statistics helped Vo Trong Nghia Architects achieve 1st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Vietnam: A+Awards Winner 2 A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 14 Total Projects 18 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 Vietnam appeared first on Journal.

Moody photography is a trend that continues to captivate audiences, using rich shadows, dramatic lighting, and subdued tones to evoke emotion and tell powerful stories. This style isnt just about creating dark imagesits about harnessing light, color, and composition to bring depth and atmosphere to your work. Heres how to elevate your moody photography to stand out in 2025.Understanding the essence of moody photographyAt its core, moody photography is about creating emotion. Whether its solitude, intrigue, or nostalgia, the mood of your image should resonate with viewers and make them feel connected to the story youre telling. Its not limited to low-light conditionswhat matters is how you control the tonal range and contrast to highlight your subject and the overall feeling of the scene. Mastering lighting techniquesLighting is the cornerstone of moody photography. By strategically manipulating light, you can create tension, drama, or softness in your shots.Directional lighting for contrastUse directional lighting, such as a side light or a spotlight, to create stark contrasts between light and shadow. This technique emphasizes shapes and textures, adding depth and intrigue to your images.Backlighting for subtletyBacklighting can be used to create silhouettes or add a soft glow to your subject. For instance, a figure framed by a dimly lit window or foggy backlight can convey mystery and isolation.Low-key lighting for intensityLow-key photography is synonymous with moody shots. Using minimal light, focus on illuminating specific areas of the frame while allowing the shadows to dominate. This approach works well for portraits, still life, and atmospheric landscapes. Composing for mood and emotionMoody photography thrives on thoughtful composition. Your framing, use of space, and focus on details play a huge role in shaping the story.Use negative spaceNegative space can amplify the feeling of isolation or introspection. A single subject placed against an expansive dark background creates a sense of vulnerability or peace, depending on your intention.Focus on texturesInclude rich textures like wood grain, flowing fabric, or water ripples to add tactile depth. Textures become even more impactful in moody photography, as they interact with light and shadows to draw the viewer in. Play with perspectiveExperiment with high and low angles to change how the viewer connects with your subject. For example, shooting from below can make a subject feel imposing, while an overhead shot might evoke vulnerability.Balancing colors and tonesWhile moody photography often relies on darker tones, color balance is crucial to maintaining depth and interest.Muted color palettesOpt for desaturated tones to maintain the somber mood without overpowering the scene. Subtle colors like deep blues, grays, and earth tones complement the style and let shadows take center stage.Warm accents in cool scenesA single warm element, like a glowing lantern or a person in a red scarf, can draw the eye and create contrast within a predominantly cool-toned image. This balance between warm and cool tones enhances the drama and impact. Advanced techniques for moody photographyMoody photography offers endless creative opportunities. Experiment with these techniques to refine your style.Incorporate fog or smokeNatural fog or artificial smoke can diffuse light and add layers of atmosphere. This technique is particularly effective in landscapes and environmental portraits, creating a dreamlike quality. Focus on small detailsMoody photography excels at telling stories through subtle details. A single tear on a cheek, raindrops on a window, or a hand clutching a scarf can evoke emotion and intimacy, drawing viewers into the moment.Experiment with long exposuresLong exposures can blur motion, creating ghostly trails of light or misty water that add a sense of mystery and movement to the scene. Moody photography is more than just a trendits a versatile style that lets photographers explore depth, emotion, and storytelling. You can transform ordinary scenes into compelling narratives that resonate with your audience by mastering lighting, composition, and tonal balance. Experiment with these techniques, and watch as your images take on a powerful, evocative life of their own.Not on 500px yet? Sign up here to explore more impactful photography.The post Creating depth and drama with moody photography appeared first on 500px.

Nintendo has released a trailer finally announcing the Switch 2. The trailer, which starts out by showing us the original Switch, gradually transforms the console into the Switch 2. Check it out below.Going by the trailer, the Nintendo Switch 2 has a new design with more rounded edges. The trailer also showcases new hardware features, like the new kickstand which allows for the console to be laid down at a greater angle than its predecessor.The JoyCons also have a new mechanism to connect to the Switch 2, making use of a new connector that plugs directly into the JoyCons for charging purposes. There is also a new trigger mechanism to disconnect the JoyCons from the main body of the Switch 2. And finally, the right JoyCon features an additional button, the details of which are currently unknown.When it comes to visual design, the Nintendo Switch 2 will be completely black, aside from a few colours to accentuate accents. The colours are only present on the JoyCons, with the left one featuring blue accents, and the right one featuring orange accents around the edges and bordering the analogue sticks.The trailer also gives us a quick glimpse at the new dock for the Switch 2, which features rounded corners at the top, and a lower-profile design where more of the console will be visible when placed in the dock. Much like the original Switch, the Switch 2 will also feature an attachment that will allow players to use the JoyCons as a singular controller for docked gaming.According to the official website, the Nintendo Switch 2 will be fully backwards compatible with its predecessor, with physical and digital copies of Switch games running seamlessly on the new console.More details about the Nintendo Switch 2 are slated to be revealed during a planned Nintendo Direct on April 2, which will give us a more in-depth look at the console and its capabilities. Along with the Direct, Nintendo has also announced an event in London that will take place between April 11 and April 13, where the company will allow users to get some hands-on time with the Switch 2.It is worth noting that, despite finally giving us a look at the Switch 2, Nintendo hasnt yet announced any games for the console, which lines up with previously-reported rumours that indicated that this announcement would be primarily focused on the hardware of the Switch 2.Other companies, however, are rumoured to already be working on games for the Switch 2. Ubisoft, for instance, is rumoured to have more than six ports for some of its more recent titles, including Assassins Creed Mirage and the upcoming Assassins Creed Shadows, in the works. Switch 2 ports of visually impressive titles, like Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth, and Flight Simulator 2024 are also rumoured to be in development.In the mean time, players might want to get ready with new accessories for the Switch 2, since it appears to feature different dimensions from the original. The new console is also rumoured to need a higher-voltage charger for docked gaming.

Berczy Park. Photo by Industryous Photography, courtesy of CCxA.A special screening of a 45-minute directors cut of the The Cultural Landscape Foundations (TCLF) Claude Cormier Oral History Project, which highlights Cormiers Toronto projects, will be taking place later this month.The screening will be followed by a panel discussion reflecting on his legacy and how the community can carry it forward when shaping future public spaces.Nothing can cheer you up more on a cold, grey winters day than to visit a space designed by Claude Cormierand his firmCCxA. Hisjoie de vivreis embodied in landscapes that bring joy and whimsy to all those who visit, encouraging interaction and engagement, reads the event page.Even more than that, his spaces are deeply rooted in rigorous historical, cultural, and ecological analysis that provide them an unparalleled sense of place. In Toronto, many of our most iconic landscapesSugar Beach, Berczy Park, Love Park, and the recently opened Leslie Lookout Park just to name a feware part of Claudes legacy.Shortly before Cormiers passing in September of 2023, TCLF held a series of interviews with him about his life, design philosophy, and projects. The resulting 28 short clips make up an 115-minute-long oral history that encompasses much of his legacy and spirit.The screening will take place on the evening of Thursday, January 30. The event is being held as part of DesignTO Festival 2025 and hosted n partnership by the Toronto Society of Architects, The Cultural Landscape Foundation and the University of Torontos John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design.For more information or to register, click here.The post Claude Cormier Oral History Project Screening and Panel Discussion to take place this month appeared first on Canadian Architect.

The Nintendo Switch 2 was announced today and it immediately made me nostalgic about the launch of the original Switch that came in 2017.Read More

Nintendo Switch 2 officially revealedNew hardware includes magnetically attachable Joy-Cons and a USB-C port, will have backwards compatibilityImage credit: Nintendo News by Sophie McEvoy Staff Writer Published on Jan. 16, 2025 Nintendo has revealed its first official look at the Switch 2, confirming that the console will release in 2025.In a video published to its YouTube channel, Nintendo showcased the console's new hardware including magnetically attachable Joy-Cons, a USB-C port, and a new button on the right Joy-Con.Last November, Nintendo confirmed the Switch 2 would be backwards compatible and that Nintendo Online will carry over.In its latest announcement, Nintendo said that backwards compatibility will be the case for physical and digital games. It does note that certain titles "may not be supported or fully compatible" with the new console.The firm says it will share more information about the Switch 2 on its website at a later date, and will provide a more detailed look during a Nintendo Direct on April 2.