California Republicans are pushing back against suggestions by President Donald Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republicans that federal disaster aid for victims of wildfires that ravaged Southern California should come with strings attached, possibly jeopardizing the presidents policy agenda in a deeply divided Congress at the outset of his second term.With Trump planning to visit the fire-ravaged state this week, resistance from even a few House members to his efforts to put conditions on disaster aid could further complicate an already fraught relationship between reliably liberal California and the second Trump administration.Several Republicans who narrowly won California House seats in November have expressed dismay that the state relief could be hitched to demands in exchange for helping the thousands of Californians in their districts still reeling from this months disaster.Playing politics with peoples livelihoods is unacceptable and a slap in the face to the Southern California wildfire victims and to our brave first responders, Republican Rep. Young Kim, whose closely divided district is anchored in fire-prone Orange County, southeast of Los Angeles, said in a statement.In an interview aired Wednesday night, Trump said he may withhold aid to California until the state adjusts how it manages its scarce water resources. He falsely claimed that Californias fish conservation efforts in the northern part of the state are responsible for fire hydrants running dry in urban areas.I dont think we should give California anything until they let the water run down, Trump told Fox News Sean Hannity.Local officials have said the conservation efforts for the delta smelt had nothing to do with the hydrants running dry as firefighters tried to contain blazes around Los Angeles. They said intense demand on a municipal system not designed to battle such blazes was to blame.The wind-driven firestorms wiped out whole neighborhoods of Los Angeles County, left thousands homeless and killed more than two dozen people.Trump said earlier this week that discussions are underway in the White House to bring more water to perennially parched Los Angeles, alluding to rainfall runoff lost to the Pacific and the states vast water storage and delivery system.Los Angeles has massive amounts of water available to it. All they have to do is turn the valve, the president said.California has long been a favorite target of Trump, who also referred to the fires in his inaugural address Monday. In LA, he said, we are watching fires still tragically burn from weeks ago without even a token of defense.Thats going to change.Trump has made no mention of the multinational firefighting force deployed to contend with multiple blazes. Firefighters were gaining ground on the two major fires Wednesday when a third blaze broke out north of Los Angeles and quickly burned through hundreds of acres of dry brush.Johnson, a Louisiana Republican echoing Trumps complaints, has said there are serious problems in how the state is managed. Those include insufficient funding for forestry programs and water storage. He also noted the public dispute between the LA fire chief and City Hall over budget cuts.Johnson said Wednesday that Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass did not prepare the state or the city for what was to come. He particularly cited a 117-million-gallon reservoir left unfilled for nearly a year. Newsom has called for an independent investigation of the reservoir.Bass didnt directly respond to a question about possible conditions on disaster aid, saying in a statement: Our work with our federal partners will be based on direct conversations with them about how we can work together.Some Republicans have suggested that the congressional relief package could become entangled with efforts to raise the nations debt limit and with the House so closely divided, even a few breakaway votes from either party could alter the outcome.That leaves GOP lawmakers from California in a political quandary: whether to forcefully stand up for their home state, often pilloried by the GOP as representing all that is wrong with America, while Republicans in Congress are eager to show a unified front and parlay their November election wins into what Trump has called a new golden age for the nation.Several California representatives agreed that the federal government must guard against the misuse of funds but argued that the money should not be held up or saddled with restrictions not placed on other states after tornadoes and hurricanes.The dilemma played out in social media posts by Republican Rep. Ken Calvert, who narrowly prevailed in November in his swing district east of Los Angeles.Californians are entitled to receive federal disaster assistance in the same manner as all Americans, he wrote on X. But, he quickly added, Some federal policy changes may be needed to expedite rebuilding as well as improve future wildfire prevention. Those kind of policies are not conditions.Republican Rep. Kevin Kiley, whose sprawling district runs from east of Sacramento south to Death Valley, told KCRA-TV in Sacramento last week that Johnsons use of the word conditions was not especially helpful. Speaking at the Capitol Wednesday, he said there is a lot of ambiguity about what constitutes conditions for disaster aid.He said his focus is to make sure the money doesnt get wasted through government inefficiency.We want to make sure the money actually gets to the victims and they can use it to rebuild their homes and to recover, Kiley said.Politicians in Washington have feuded for years over how to restrain the growing wildfire threat across the West. Republicans have long complained that inadequate land management practices have exacerbated damage from wildfires, while Democrats have emphasized the role of climate change and the failure of the federal government to address it.About the only thing they agree on is that the problem persists.Some lawmakers have noted that disaster aid over the years for Johnsons home state of Louisiana did not come with conditions. Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries called the idea a non-starter.Republican Rep. Doug LaMalfa, whose largely rural district runs from the Sacramento area north to the Oregon border, said he wasnt too concerned about talk of conditions.Everything has conditions, especially the way California wastes money, LaMalfa said. We want to help people and we want to help with that, like weve helped with others. But California is very, very irresponsible.Trump plans to visit the state to see the damage firsthand on Friday. Newsom hasnt said publicly if hell accompany him on his tour.With the fragile GOP majority in the House there are 219 Republicans, 214 Democrats and one vacancy Johnson cannot afford defections on any vote. And it could be several weeks before a fuller accounting of the states recovery needs is ready and a formal request submitted to the White House.Following major natural disasters, the president typically makes supplemental spending requests, as happened after hurricanes Helene and Milton.Congress also could provide more disaster aid to California through legislation. Sen. Lindsey Graham, the Republican chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, said he would work to include disaster aid in a filibuster-proof bill Republicans hope to craft this year that would pay for some of Trumps top policy priorities.Newsom urged Johnson and other congressional leaders to quickly approve assistance for the state, where fires are still burning and strong winds continue to threaten new ones. In an email to supporters from his campaign committee, he warned that Republicans are holding federal aid hostage and said Democrats might be able to peel off a handful of GOP votes to push through an aid package.In times of natural disaster from Hurricane Katrina to Hurricane Helene Americans have always stood together, setting aside politics to extend a helping hand to those in need, the governor wrote. Historically, federal disaster aid has been provided without conditions.Michael R. Blood and Kevin Freking, Associated Press

On his first day in office, President Trump signed an executive order declaring that the U.S. government will only recognize sexes: male and female. Since 2022, the Biden administration had allowed U.S. citizens to choose the gender-neutral X on their passports. The new executive order rolls this back, as well as prevents taxpayer funds from being used for gender-transition healthcare. Its the first in what will surely be more policy blows aimed at the LGBTQ+ population.The Trevor Project, a nonprofit focused on preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ youth, released a report on the impact of state policies on the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth. The report draws on data from the Trevor Projects 2024 mental health survey of 18,000 LGBTQ+ people ages 13 to 24, and data from think tank the Movement Advancement Projects work tracking policy changes across the U.S.The study shows how anti-LGBTQ+ policies have a non-trivial impact on the LGBTQ+ population. Here are the key findings:Negative impact on well-being: Anti-LGBTQ+ politics has an overwhelmingly negative impact on well-being. Ninety percent of LGBTQ+ people said these policy changes had a negative impact on their well-being. Anti-transgender state laws directly resulted in a 72% increase in suicide attempts among trans and nonbinary youthwho lived in states that implemented such laws.Anti-LGBTQ+ polices are common: Currently, 27% of LGBTQ+ young people live in a state with negative LGBTQ+ policies, and 38% in states with positive LGBTQ+ policies.LGBTQ+ youth want to move based on politics: Almost two in five reported thinking about moving to a different state with more friendly LGBTQ+ policies and 4% actually did move. This was particularly pronounced for trans youth: Seven in 10 living in a state with anti-trans policies have considered moving to another state.Trumps executive order is a blow at the federal level, which raises fears about what else may come down the pipeline and how much states with positive LGBTQ+ policies can do to protect their residents. After all, where is there to move except across country borders when federal policies slide into place? The Trevor project reported that it saw a 33% increase in calls to its crisis hot line on inauguration day.One thing must be made clear: regardless of if, when, or how todays anticipated anti-transgender executive orderand others like itmay be implemented, targeting the transgender and nonbinary community on day one will cause harmespecially for young people, said Janson Wu, senior director of state advocacy and government affairs at the Trevor Project, in a statement about Trumps executive order. We know that many people are feeling afraid, or even confused, by what certain actions today and in the coming days mean for our community. I want to remind everyone that we are prepared for whatever lies aheadand will continue to protect and care for each other now, just as we always have.

We continue our 21st-Century Architecture: 25 Years 25 Buildings series with a look at Apple Park by Foster + Partners, the most recognisable office of the past 25 years.Arguably no company has ever used architecture to define its brand more successfully than Apple has in the 21st-century, and for its HQ the technology company set the lofty intention of creating "the best office building in the world".Dubbed "the most-hyped building of 2017" by Curbed, the ring-shaped Apple Park office in California has been described as the biggest product produced by the iPhone maker. It demonstrated the brand's design ideals to the world on a grand scale.Apple Park was the most significant building of 2017Apple Park was created to replace the Infinite Loop Campus, which was built in 1993 as a research and development hub, as the company's corporate headquarters.While the Infinite Loop buildings are generic 1990s office architecture, the ambition for Apple Park was far greater.Read: Frank Gehry's Walt Disney Concert Hall was the most significant building of 2003In one of his last public statements before his death, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs set out what the company was aiming to create."It's got a gorgeous courtyard in the middle, and a lot more," he said. "It's a circle, so it's curved all the way round. This is not the cheapest way to build something.""Every pane of glass in the main building will be curved," he continued. "We have a shot at building the best office building in the world. I really do think that architecture students will come here to see it."The building was designed byFoster + PartnersIn the early 21st century, Apple redefined the electronics buying experience through a series of architecturally significant Apple Stores designed by US studio Bohlin Cywinski Jackson.First unveiled in 2001, the sleek retail spaces not only allowed Apple to interact and sell directly to customers, but also translated Apple's design ideals to an architectural scale.Nowhere was this more evident than its Fifth Avenue store, where the glass-cube entrance pavilion has become both a well-photographed attraction and a defining representation of the brand.We have a shot at building the best office building in the worldSteve JobsIn 2014, Apple handed design responsibility for its retail legacy to UK studio Foster + Partners, with the studio's first store also topped with a glass pavilion opening in Istanbul. It was to Foster + Partners founder Norman Foster that Jobs turned to to realise his ambitious headquarters."Steve Jobs called me directly, out of the blue, and said: 'Hi Norman, I need some help; how quickly can you get here?'," explained Foster in the Norman Foster Works Taschen book."We met some weeks later and spoke all day and finished in the kitchen over pizza. It was total immersion in Steve's vision for his project. He spoke about stone, glass, and the California landscape of his youth."The building is ring-shaped with a landscaped park in the centreAccording to Foster, the core elements of the building were determined in that initial meeting. Jobs wanted a workplace that combined the collegiate atmosphere of Stanford and the apricot and cherry groves he recalled from his youth growing up."If I were to do a word picture of the conversation of that day, you can relate it very directly to the building as it is now," said Foster."Eventually, the design of the buildings would follow over the next 12 months, but the big idea of an indigenous landscape as the protagonist of the project, 'the fruit bowl of his youth', as Steve described it, would emerge at that first meeting."The building is surrounded by parklandThe circle, the building's defining form, was created in what Foster described as a "eureka moment".Although it appears as one continuous structure, it is more accurately eight buildings each separated by atriums. This arrangement allowed Apple's team spaces, known as pods, to be arranged so each was surrounded by the landscape but still interconnected.The triumph of Apple Park, it would seem, is in these obsessive detailsAlexandra Lang in CurbedThe 260,000-square-metre structure sits in a grassy landscape dotted with 9,000 trees including oak, redwood and 25 varieties of fruit tree.Within this landscape, which occupies around 80 per cent of the overall site, a six-metre-high pavilion wrapped in glass and topped with a carbon-fibre roof stands above a 1,000-seat auditorium. This structure was named in memory of Jobs, who passed away before the building was completed.The interiors were finished to a very high specificationApple Park was designed and built to exacting standards often likened to the quality of Apple's products. Floor slabs were made from pre-cast, polished concrete, while the entire building was wrapped in curved glass panels, which are the world's largest."The triumph of Apple Park, it would seem, is in these obsessive details, which elevate it above the common sorrows of architecture (that concrete pour that went wonky, that threshold that won't lie flat) and into the realm of product design," wrote Alexandra Lang in Curbed."Small things can be perfect, big things cannot, they are just too much. Unless, it seems, you have the money of Jobs."Despite the exacting finishes, there were some teething issues. Some staff reportedly revolted over the open-plan offices, while others injured themselves walking into the internal glass panels.It was surrounded in curved glass wallsOthers outside the building were critical of Apple Park and in particular how it is clearly separated from its city of Cupertino. In an early review in Wired that drew significant attention, Dan Winters said that "everything in this building is the best", but added, "if you care about cities, Apple's new campus sucks".The review likened Apple Park to the suburban headquarters of the 1960s and '70s that were deliberately separated from city."Apple's new HQ is a retrograde, literally inward-looking building with contempt for the city where it lives and cities in general," wrote Winters. "Apple Park is an anachronism wrapped in glass, tucked into a neighborhood."Read: Zaha Hadid's Bergisel Ski Jump was the most significant building of 2002In response to the criticisms levelled at Apple Park, Apple's chief designer Jony Ive defended the building. He argued that only he and the company could fully understand why the building was designed as it is."We didn't make Apple Park for other people," he said. "So a lot of the criticisms are utterly bizarre, because it wasn't made for you! And I know how we work and you don't!""I think Apple Park has a very specific role. It's not a watch. It's our house, where we go to work together," Ive continued. "We made it for us, to help us be better, to make better products."Did we get it right? Was Apple Park by Foster + Partners the most significant building completed in 2017? Let us know in the comments. We will be running a poll once all 25 buildings are revealed to determine the most significant building of the 21st century so far.This article is part of Dezeen's 21st-Century Architecture: 25 Years 25 Buildings series, which looks at the most significant architecture of the 21st century so far. For the series, we have selected the most influential building from each of the first 25 years of the century.The illustration is by Jack Bedford and the photography is courtesy of Apple.21st Century Architecture: 25 Years 25 Buildings2000:Tate Modern by Herzog & de Meuron2001:Gando Primary School by Dibdo Francis Kr2002:Bergisel Ski Jump by Zaha Hadid2003:Walt Disney Concert Hall by Frank Gehry2004:Quinta Monroy by Elemental2005:Moriyama House by Ryue Nishizawa2006:Madrid-Barajas airport by RSHP and Estudio Lamela2007:Oslo Opera House by Snhetta2008:Museum of Islamic Art by I M Pei2009:Murray Grove by Waugh Thistleton Architects2010:Burj Khalifa by SOM2011:National September 11 Memorial byHandel Architects2012:CCTV Headquarters by OMA2013:Cardboard Cathedral by ShigeruBan2014:Bosco Verticale by Stefano Boeri2015: UTEC Lima campus by Grafton Architects2016: Transformation of 530 Dwellings by Lacaton & Vassal, Frdric Druot and Christophe Hutin2017: Apple Park by Foster + PartnersThis list will be updated as the series progresses.The post Apple Park by Foster + Partners was the most significant building of 2017 appeared first on Dezeen.

American artist James Turrell has unveiled plans for an expansive installation connected by a series of tunnels and staircases in Saudi Arabia's AlUla desert.Defined by a series of interconnected "chambers" nestled into the landscape, the artwork will form the first of five initial projects to be completed by global artists for the Wadi AlFann cultural venue.James Turrell has unveiled designs for an installation in the AlUla desertThe designs were unveiled at the Wadi AlFann presents James Turrell exhibition, which opened in Saudi Arabia's desert region last week as part of the AlUla Arts Festival 2025.Curated by Michael Govan, the on-going exhibition forms part of the centre's pre-opening programme, which spotlights the artists behind the commissions. Other artists set to create work for the destination include Manal AlDowayan, Agnes Denes, Michael Heizer and Ahmed Mater.The artwork will comprise a series of chambersRenders of the interiors by Turrell reveal bright, dome-like structures illuminated by oculus openings and wrapped with built-in seating space for visitors. The project is the latest in a series of Skyspace installations created by the artist.A circular motif runs through the design, with rounded walkways, seating and openings used throughout.Read: James Turrell creates "transcendent" Skyspace installation in the Rocky Mountains"The work envisioned for Wadi AlFann will have two large Skyspaces and two small Skyspaces, that each address different aspects of sky," Turrell said."All of my Skyspaces engage the natural light of the area," he added. "The light quality in AlUla is of dry desert air with little moisture, which yields a light in the sky that is crisp and clear."Oculus openings will draw light into the spacesThe artwork will be an interactive experience for visitors."Visitors can view plans for Turrell's upcoming Wadi AlFann commission where he is creating a monumental sequence of chambers within the canyon floor which will generate a sensorial experience of space, colour, and perception," Wadi AlFann said."Experiencing the 'thingness of light' as well as elements of sky and terrain, the viewer will explore these spaces via a series of tunnels and stairs.""The large-scale commission will examine the very nature of seeing and offer a profound opportunity to experience art in dialogue with nature."The design was unveiled at the Wadi AlFann presents James Turrell exhibitionAlso included in the exhibition are light installations and highlights from the Royal Commission for AlUla's contemporary art collection, which includes the Jubilee, Circular Glass artwork created by Turrell in 2021.Work from Turrell's Hologram series will also be shown, including "a luminous geometric shape floating in space".Previous works by Turrell are also on show at the exhibitionThe exhibition is taking place across two venues in AlJadidah Arts District: the historic old town of AlUla and the AlUla Arts Festival, which will run till April 19.Other recent developments in AlUla include a trio of lookout points held in tents informed by those of the nomadic Bedouin people and the opening of the Design Space AlUla gallery, which is held in a Corten steel-latticed building.The images are courtesy of James Turrell Studio and Royal Commission for AlUla.Wadi AlFann presents James Turrell runs from 16 January 2025 to 19 April 2025 at the AlUla Arts Festival. See Dezeen Events Guide for more architecture and design events around the world.The post James Turrell reveals "monumental sequence of chambers" for AlUla desert installation appeared first on Dezeen.

This striking Dune suspension lamp is by Mayice, a Madrid-based product design and architecture firm.The housing is a single piece of hand-blown borosilicate glass. Suspended within is a cylinder of wood veneer that serves as the diffuser, and is slit along the bottom. Inside the veneer is a dimmable LED light source.Although this is in production, no two are exactly alike, the housing being hand-blown. Each lamp is signed by the glass artisan, Eduardo Garuti. This lamp is technically called the Dune Horizontal. There's also a Dune Vertical variant that doesn't quite do it for me.The veneers are available in a number of different colors. The Dune lamps are in production by Spain-based lighting company LZF.

Everyday Carry (EDC) items have become an essential part of modern life, blending functionality with personal style. As we step into 2025, new trends are shaping the EDC landscape, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and personalization. We have culminated the top 5 EDC trends you should watch out for this year.As these trends shape the EDC landscape in 2025, they reflect broader shifts in consumer values and technological advancements. EDC enthusiasts are finding new ways to enhance their daily carry with items that align with their lifestyles and aspirations, by prioritizing sustainability, personalization, and smart technology.1. Minimalist and Compact DesignsMinimalism remains a strong influence in the EDC community, with a focus on compact and lightweight designs increasing by the day. Users prefer designs that offer maximum utility without the unnecessary bulk and weight. This trend is driving innovation and growth in multi-functional tools and streamlined accessories that fit seamlessly into pockets and bags. This focus on minimalism showcases a desire for simplicity and efficiency, making it easier to carry essential items without being weighed down.EDC by nature is known for its compact nature, but given the variability in the designs available, there is a difference in the compact nature of the EDC as well. Personally, I believe in owing an EDC that suits your need camping, everyday usage, office and more. Given that, the size of the design also plays a good part in choosing the correct EDC for your needs.Olight Baton 4 LED FlashlightFollowing the trend of minimal and multifunctional designs, the Olight Baton 4 LED Flashlight is an excellent choice. It features a 5000 mAh charging case and a flip-top design that is easy to open and close with one hand. You can place the flashlight within to charge it, or you could flip open the cover, and press the side button to switch on the flashlight when its in the case. This feature ensures you dont waste any precious time.This compact and lightweight EDC delivers dual charging functionality, allowing you to charge your phone like a power bank. This eliminates the need to carry different chargers for your flashlight and phone, ensuring a more lightweight and streamlined gear. The EDC also features small LED indicators to showcase the brightness level and remaining battery charge.What we likeIt provides a dependable source of light without needing to be removed from its case.Its dual functionality means you dont have to carry multiple chargers.What we dislikeThe charging case is compatible only with Olight flashlights, specifically the Baton 4 or Baton 3 models.2. Japanese-Inspired DesignsJapanese-inspired EDC is gaining popularity in 2025, as these designs prioritize precision, craftsmanship, and simplicity. This trend draws from traditional Japanese design principles, focusing on functional elegance and high-quality materials. EDC such as compact folding knives, minimalist wallets, and pens crafted with meticulous attention to detail reflect the Japanese aesthetic.With a keen eye on materials usage, popular designs made from titanium and Damascus steel are adopted more, showcasing a lovely blend of modern tech with time-honored techniques. Titanium is also in the forefront with Apples focus on using it in their iPhone design. Japanese designs merge both great quality, timeless design and a focus on problem solving that sets the design apart.8-in-1 EDC ScissorCalled the 8-in-1 EDC Scissor, this innovative and versatile tool is a nifty Japanese-inspired EDC that will support you in your outdoor experience. The tool is cleverly engineered, and it serves as a multifunctional camping and kitchen companion. You can separate the scissors into two distinct knives, which serves as a unique twist on traditional scissors.It functions as a built-in bottle opener, nutcracker, can opener, and fire starter. It can tackle and handle a whole bunch of different tasks in the outdoors whether youre cooking up a quick meal or starting a warm fire. It has sleek and minimal Japanese-inspired aesthetics, which make it a good-looking addition to your EDC kit.Click Here to Buy Now: $59.00What we likeServes as a versatile tool suitable for various environments.Provides multiple solutions within a compact design.What we dislikeIt has a multifunctional form, which can make it somewhat difficult to carry around.3. Modular and Customizable GearPersonalization is one of the upcoming EDC trends since modular and customizable gear is gaining a lot of popularity. Users are seeking designs that can be tailored to their specific needs and preferences, allowing them to mix and match components. From multi-tools with interchangeable parts to wallets with customizable compartments, this trend allows users to create a truly personalized EDC setup. It also enhances functionality, as users can adapt their gear to different situations and environments.Modularity in design also comes in various forms its not just about carving your name on the tool. Customization includes colour, material, combination of the tools included in the set to avoid carrying unnecessary tools and keep the whole set minimal. Result is a tool that becomes your companion across the years adapting as your needs change and become a truly sustainable option.WindelerCalled Windeler, this innovative EDC multitool lets you customize your toolset to suit your specific needs. It has a modular and minimal design which lets you easily plug in and remove various modules, allowing you to build a personalized EDC. If you need a pocket knife, flathead screwdriver, or small scissors, all you need to do is swap out the components to fit your requirements.With Windeler you can create, customize, and rebuild your EDC, ensuring you always have access to the right tools and none of the unnecessary extras. Whenever you leave the house, you will have your tools right by your side, in a compact and nifty package that is quite easy to carry around.What we likeFunctions as a sleek multitool that easily fits into your bag for convenient carrying.What we dislikeDespite being similar in size to other multitools, it doesnt offer as many built-in tools as some other EDC designs.4. Tactical AestheticIn 2024, we will see the tactical EDC aesthetic continue to run the game. This aesthetic is characterized by rugged design and military-inspired functionality. Designs with a tactical edge often feature robust materials, such as anodized aluminum and reinforced nylon, and include practical features like MOLLE webbing and paracord attachments. This trend is great for those who value durability and preparedness, offering gear that can withstand the rigors of everyday adventures and emergencies.Tactical aesthetic is also a default of this category given that this category is associated with outdoor usage. Tactical aesthetic is almost a lifestyle at this point with outdoorsmen and even a style statement. Imagine wood, grungy metallic finish, bright colour accents and a distinct timeless aesthetic if these appeal to you, this aesthetic is meant for you.Mossy Oak MiniThe Mossy Oak Mini is an EDC knife that seamlessly blends rugged aesthetics with sophisticated functionality. Designed to look as if nature itself had a hand in its creation, this knife stands out with its rough-hewn charm and impressive capabilities. Beyond its primary role as a folding knife, the Mossy Oak Mini features a bottle opener, seatbelt cutter, and glass breaker, making it a versatile addition to any EDC collection.Its beauty is found in its imperfections, with a stonewashed blade and a hand-crafted walnut wood handle that showcases its natural wood grain. This lack of polish or varnish gives the knife a tactile, earthy feel, appealing to both the eyes and the hands. It has a tactical aesthetic that will add an edge to your EDC kit.What we likeIncludes a bottle opener, seatbelt cutter, and glass breaker.Hand-made walnut handles and stonewashed blades offer a unique, earthy appeal.What we dislikeThe lack of polish may not appeal to those preferring a more refined look.Despite its versatility, it may not cover all needs compared to more comprehensive multi-tools.5. Smart EDC TechnologyAs technology continues to advance, smart EDC items are becoming more prevalent. In 2025, expect to see a surge in EDC designs that integrate seamlessly with digital lifestyles. From keychains with built-in GPS trackers to wallets with RFID blocking and digital payment capabilities, these items offer enhanced security and convenience. The integration of smart technology into everyday items is making EDC more efficient and adaptable to the demands of modern life.Technically a nascent entry into the EDC world, smart technology is an EDC for the masses. Wearables are a part of life, and given the latest innovations we witnessed at CES, these designs are only evolving to become more helpful and more commonplace. The interesting intersection is how these gadgets become rugged enough for everyday use and seamlessly integrate into all aspects of our life, going beyond watches and moving into more commonplace designs like a measuring tape!OnePlus Concept One SmartwatchCalled the Concept One Watch, EDC is designed by Michael Szczeglski of 2sympleks Design, and it draws inspiration from the OnePlus Concept One phone. It features innovative electrochromic glass technology and looks like a typical smartwatch, but is blessed with the unique ability to reveal hidden sensors when the camera app is activated since the glass turns transparent.This watch skillfully merges classic analog aesthetics with kinetic movement and the modern functionality of a smartwatch. It runs on Android WearOS and serves as a perfect hybrid, working well for enthusiasts of traditional timepieces as well as those who appreciate the connected features of modern smartwatches.What we likeUtilizes electrochromic glass to reveal hidden sensors, enhancing functionality.Combines classic analog aesthetics with modern smartwatch features.What we dislikeAdvanced technology may lead to higher maintenance needs.May not appeal to those who prefer fully analog or fully digital watches.The post EDC Trends Of 2025: Modular Gear, Tactical Aesthetics & More first appeared on Yanko Design.

Tranquility and modern design flow seamlessly in the Driftwood Apartmentdesigned by Mariya Chmut. This space is inspired by natures raw beauty as well as coastal design elements. It celebrates the art of minimalism with warm wood tones. This is complemented by sleek marble accents and ethereal lighting. Every detailfrom the textured finishes to the earthy palettecreates a harmonious space that feels grounded yet luxurious. The Driftwood Apartment is designed to evoke a sense of calm, transforming your everyday living into an effortless escape.The living room is an affair of beige and brown. Dark wooden flooring is topped with a velvet rug that adds opulence. A large, spacious sectional makes sure theres room to sprawl out while bingewatching your favorite show even if square footage is at a premium. An organically shaped mirror near the window reflects light throughout the room, making it feel bigger and more well-lit. Simultaneously, the c-shaped table offers functionality similar to a coffee table while occupying so much less space.Driftwood Apartments kitchen sticks to a neutral palette. The design secret is the unique marble veiningseen in the island as well as the backsplash. The beige cabinetry is sleek and without hardware. Into this, we see essential appliances seamlessly blending in. Over the island, a rod light makes sure to provide illumination.A bulky oakwood table and sleek chairs provide room for you to dine with loved ones. A ceramic vase and sculptural lighting come together to form a design statement in the space, as does the perfectly round mirror on the wall. The large floor-to-ceiling windows are paired with minimal drapery so the dining area receives natural light all day long.We love the use of beige in the bedroom. Visual interest is added with contrasting lines. That is, the horizontal lining on the velvet bed upholstery and the vertical lines right behind it. A unique black reading light makes sure you can receive targeted light as you read your favorite book before bed. Even in the compact space, a small walk-in closet gives that ultimate luxurious experience!In the bathroom, differently patterned tiles add a punch of interest. These continue all the way to the ceiling, making the bathroom feel tall and luxurious. A back-lit vanity makes sure you get the perfect spot for makeup sessions, while the mini sink and integrated bathtub provide optimal functionality. Theres also a shower cubicle with a glass partition. A quick shower or relaxing soak? You decide.

Getting lost in liminal spaces is more dull than terrifying.

Its hard to ignore the irony.