Microsoft's stock has badly lagged its tech peers in the past year as cloud growth has been basically stagnant in recent quarters.

Workers at a Whole Foods Market in Pennsylvania voted to unionize on Monday, becoming the first group of employees to pull off a labor win at the Amazon-owned grocery store chain.Employees at the Philadelphia store cast 130 votes or about 57% of the ballots cast in favor of joining a local chapter of The United Food and Commercial Workers International Union for the purposes of collective bargaining. According to the National Labor Relations Board, which oversaw the election, 100 workers rejected the motion.This fight is far from over, but todays victory is an important step forward, said Wendell Young IV, the president of UFCW Local 1776. We are ready to bring Whole Foods to the bargaining table to negotiate a fair first contract that reflects the workers needs and priorities.The results mark the first successful entry of organized labor into Amazons grocery business, which includes Whole Foods, Amazon Fresh and the Amazon Go convenience stores. Amazon, which purchased Whole Foods in 2017 for $13.7 billion, has tried to fend off organizing efforts in its stores as well as by delivery drivers and warehouse workers.Nearly three years ago, Amazon warehouse workers in the New York City borough of Staten Island voted to be represented in labor negotiations by a fledgling union that has since affiliated with the Teamsters. But Amazon has refused to come to the bargaining table.Employees at the Whole Foods store, located in the center of Philadelphia, started organizing early last year, Young said. They teamed up with UFCW Local 1776 in the late summer, and in November petitioned the National Labor Relations Board to hold an official election.The local union said the store workers hoped a successful vote would help them secure higher wages, more affordable health care coverage, child care support, greater work-life balance and better working conditions.In a statement after the votes were counted Monday night, Whole Foods said it is proud to offer competitive compensation, great benefits, and career advancement opportunities to all Team Members.We are disappointed by the outcome of this election, but we are committed to maintaining a positive working environment in our Philly Center City store, the company added.The company said it provides store employees with a competitive average hourly wage and other benefits, such as 401(k) plans and on-demand mental health support. It did not disclose its average hourly rate, but some online job postings show store employees can earn $16 per hour or higher.After the union filed the election petition, workers at the Philadelphia store were given free snacks, and the company repainted their break rooms, according to Young.Earlier this month, UFCW Local 1776 filed unfair labor practice charges with the NLRB against the company, accusing it of firing one worker in retaliation for union activities and alleging that supervisors told employees they would get paid more if they rejected the union bid. Whole Foods disputed the worker was fired in retaliation.The union has also accused Whole Foods of withholding region-wide wage increases from employees at the Philadelphia store because of the union activities.The company acknowledges it did not offer wage increases to workers at the store, even though it did so at a number of other stores as part of a quarterly review. Whole Foods maintains it would have been illegal to make wage adjustments in the lead-up to the union election, an argument Young disputed.The company said it was delaying the pay bumps until after the election to avoid the appearance of trying to influence the vote with raises.Seattle-based Amazon has resisted union organizing efforts by its workers. Amazon delivery drivers went on strike in a handful of U.S. cities before Christmas to exert pressure on the the company to recognize them as unionized employees or to meet demands for an inaugural labor contract.Workers at an Amazon warehouse in North Carolina are scheduled to vote next month on whether they want to be represented by an upstart union called Carolina Amazonians United for Solidarity and Empowerment.The retail giant has challenged the structure of the National Labor Relations Board in court. Amazon accused the federal agency of tampering in the 2022 union election at the Staten Island warehouse, in part by bringing a lawsuit against the company to reinstate a fired organizer close to when voting began.Haleluya Hadero and Lisa Baumann, Associated Press

Humility is one of those traits everyone claims to love, but few actually want to practice. In other words, we love interacting with humble people, more than making the effort to come across as humble with others.The reasons for this are well-documented by science, and boil down to:Humans are generally prone to overestimating their skills and abilities, and thinking more highly of themselves than they shouldWe are afraid that exposing our limitations and self-doubt (assuming we are capable of self-awareness in the first place) may weaken our reputation with othersThere is a temptation to brag or show off in order to persuade others that we are talented even when we are notpeople often mistake confidence with competenceAnd yet, there is both a high cost to being perceived as arrogant (when your displays of confidence exceed or surpass your apparent competence), as well as substantial benefits to being perceived as humble (when your actual abilities seem to surpass your self-perceived or self-reported abilities).Research shows that humble people are seen as more trustworthy, better team players, and even more effective leaders. Thats reason enough to consider toning down the self-promotioneven if your inner ego is doing push-ups in the mirror.Importantly, what matters most is not what you think of yourself, but what others think of you: for instance, we all get hired, fired, promoted, and demoted based not on our self-views, but those of others.So, no matter how much you love yourself and your talents, you should consider the multiple upsides to coming across as humble, even if it means fake in it strategically. Here are some tips on how to do this:Master the Art of Self-DeprecationHumor is your best friend here. Casually drop self-deprecating remarks like, Oh, I had no idea what I was doing at first, when someone praises your work. Bonus points if you roll your eyes for comedic effect. But beware: Overdoing it makes people think youre fishing for compliments. Keep it subtle, like adding saltnot dumping the shaker.Why it works:Studies suggest that self-deprecating humor makes people appear more likable and approachable. Translation? Crack the right joke, especially with yourself as the target of your joke, and people will forget or ignore how much you love yourself.Play the curious newbie cardEven if youve been doing something for years, act like youre still learning. Say things like, Id love to hear how youd approach this, or, What would you do differently? This doesnt mean you actually have to take their advice, of course.Why it works:Humble people are seen as more open to learning, which is a highly attractive quality (source). Indeed, because being in learning mode is the opposite of being in performance mode, you will likely project a humble image when you display curiosity and a hungry mind.Downplay your success without humblebraggingTheres a fine line between Oh, it was nothing and Ugh, I cant believe I have to accept another award! To avoid looking insufferable, acknowledge praise but pivot quickly: Thanks! The whole team made it happen.Why it works:Studies on modesty reveal that sharing credit makes you seem more collaborative. Plus, you get bonus points for being a team player, even if you secretly know you carried the whole thing. Consider that many managers and leaders, including those who succeed in corporate environments, specialize in playing the credit and blame game, so they take credit for other peoples work and blame them for their own mistakes. It is advisable to do exactly the opposite, and you will be admired for your humility.Praise others (even when youre dying to take credit)Want to look humble? Shower others with sincere compliments. You were amazing during that pitch! or Your input made all the difference. Even if you did the heavy lifting, let someone else bask in the spotlight for a change.Why it works:Complimenting others increases likability. And when you make others feel good, theyre less likely to notice your secret thirst for glory. Just focusing on others rather than on yourself will likely create a reputation for being humble, because there is a fundamental tension between putting yourself at the center of the universe, or ignoring others altogether. As the saying goes, humility is not thinking less of yourselfits thinking of yourself less.Listen, listen, listen (it will help you to shut up)Despite the common misconception that those who speak often, tend to have interesting or important things to say, the inability to shut up signals mostly poor social skills, a disinterest in others, and indeed self-importance (which is the opposite of humility). Resist the urge to hijack the conversation with, oh, that reminds me of when I . . .; and the temptation to think that everyone is desperate to hear your unsolicited views and opinions.Why it works:Active listening signals humility and respect. It also keeps you from blurting out that story about how you saved the day (again). Human beings have a pervasive interest in themselves, especially relative to others, which highlights the opportunity: instead of competing for attention with others, pay attention to themand if they are not interesting, at least pretend. Unsurprisingly, scientific studies show that listening is a sought-after skill, and an underrated dimension of career potential.Admit small flaws strategicallyWe are generally too busy thinking about how we can impress others to showcase our vulnerabilities, but this is one of the best ways to cultivate a humble image. You can avoid this by dropping minor confessions like, I totally forgot about that deadline last weekthank goodness for my reminders! This humanizes you without damaging your credibility. Just dont overshare to the point where people start wondering why youre still employed, or whether you have severe imposter syndrome.Why it works:Research shows that owning up to mistakes makes you seem relatable and trustworthy. It will help you to connect with others by displaying your vulnerabilities, which creates a reputation for being real, genuine, and human, all of which is valued by others.In short, pretending to be humble doesnt make you a fraudit makes you smart, provided you have the emotional and social intelligence to pull it off. Actually, just trying to manage impressions by displaying a humble or modest version of your persona, and ensuring that your public self is as likable as possible, is indicative of a high EQ. By strategically toning down your ego, you can unlock multiple benefits, such as stronger relationships, greater influence, and less annoyed coworkers. To be sure, if you fake humility long enough, it will become not only a habit, but a distinct feature of your reputation and personality: It is much better to think of yourself as arrogant when everyone sees you as humble, than the other way around.

Dezeen Showroom: residential switches, sockets and thermostats are given an elevated and consistent aesthetic using the slimline E2 series by German electrical hardware brand Gira.The Gira E2 range is defined by its clean, minimalistic look, which sees the embrace of simple, square shapes and slim profiles.Gira's E2 range provides an elegant option for switches and socketsThe range includes sockets, switches and thermostat dials in singles or multiples, and includes versions in both standard and flat designs, which sit almost flush with the wall on a frame that is just 3.4 millimetres thick.The switches are retrofittable almost anywhere, but for challenging placements there is also the option of a slightly larger surface-mounted version that doesn't need to be attached to wires within the wall.The switches are made of plastic or stainless steelThe E2 range is made of either shatter-proof, UV-resistant plastic or stainless steel. The plastic colour range is broad, ranging from either matt or glossy white to black, aluminium or anthracite.A new colour offering, light grey, is made primarily from recycled plastic, which Gira says reduced the product's carbon footprint by approximately 54 per cent.Product details:Product: E2Brand: GiraContact: architects@gira.comDezeen ShowroomDezeen Showroom offers an affordable space for brands to launch new products and showcase their designers and projects to Dezeen's huge global audience. For more details email showroom@dezeen.com.Dezeen Showroom is an example of partnership content on Dezeen. Find out more about partnership content here.The post E2 switches and sockets by Gira appeared first on Dezeen.

As Dezeen's working-conditions survey reveals widespread dissatisfaction with low pay and long hours among architects, Amanda Baillieu considers what has gone wrong in the profession.Can architecture survive as a special and unique profession? Architects have asked this question many times, particularly when economic forces are against them.High interest rates, rising construction costs, a drop in demand for new office space and increased regulations are all leading to reduced demand for new projects in many countries around the world. Throw in the threat from artificial intelligence, which hovers like a black cloud over all creative industries, and the picture looks even gloomier.At a recent debate on the profession, architect Steve Sinclair, co-founder of the popular Negroni Talks, said: "Watching the future of architecture is like standing on a beach waving at a tsunami fast approaching." Many in the room agreed, but were divided about what survival looks like.Architects are tricky, high-minded and often unwilling to learn new skillsBy and large, respondents to Dezeen's survey about the working experience of people in architecture and design, published today, enjoy their job because they are working creatively. Having a purpose is key to workplace satisfaction, but what emerges in the survey responses is that creativity comes at a cost.While architecture remains a popular profession the number of young people who want to become architects continues to rise each year low salaries and unpaid overtime is leading many to question their choice of career.So what has gone wrong for the profession, and can it be fixed?Read: One in five architecture and design workers planning to leave industryArchitects are tricky: high-minded and often unwilling to learn new skills unless they are essentially architectural, they rail against governments for not giving them a bigger role in the re-ordering of society, criticise clients for undermining their creative integrity and resent their professional institutes for not doing more to help them.Some even blame their education and training, which they argue is too concerned with theory, with barely any time spent on the technical aspects of building. In the UK it's a criticism that has particularly touched a nerve because of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry into the fire that claimed the lives of 72 people.The findings pointed to the project architect's lack of technical expertise, saying its mistakes are symptomatic of a "widespread failure among the profession" to properly understand the nature of the materials they are using. This has re-opened the debate on architecture education, with many arguing that architects are not being sufficiently well-trained to take on the responsibilities of complex projects.Unfortunately, the sense of joy that architecture can instil doesn't compute in money termsArchitects who trained in the 1980s and even earlier look back with nostalgia to the time when they learnt about mastic joints and proper ventilation and daylight in other words, how a building is actually built. But architecture education, while long and cripplingly expensive, is not the real problem.More urgent is the profession's failure to properly explain what it does and why it matters. Until then, clients will continue to conclude that, with obvious exceptions, architects aren't needed except to provide a "killer sketch" for the marketing team a concept drawing that is sometimes produced before the practice has even been appointed when they are unconstrained by practicalities, including cost.Architecture services are expensive and their value elusive despite numerous attempts to prove otherwise. Mainly because it's an almost unanswerable question.Read: Shocking personal stories from Dezeen's working-conditions surveyWhile many bold words have been written about the power of architecture to change lives think pupils who behave better and achieve higher grades in schools that are well designed and patients whose recovery is speedier in hospitals that are light and airy with views onto a garden these are mainly anecdotal. Unfortunately, the sense of joy that architecture can instil doesn't compute in money terms.At the same time, the challenge of building is getting more complex, partly because the questions are no longer stylistic as they were a generation ago. Now, discussions about a new project might start with balancing the carbon emissions that would come from a new build versus the cost of refurbishment. And while architects would be asked for their view, it is engineers who can provide the answers.Meanwhile, architects' fees remain frustratingly opaque because they operate in a competitive market environment. Widespread success, when it comes, is pegged almost entirely to redevelopment booms, such as those in the 1960s and 1980s. But when there are fewer jobs as there are now, practices are prepared to work for practically nothing to stay in business.The culture of unpaid overtime is one that's long been accepted as just part of the jobIt hardly needs saying that low-fee bids are a bad idea in the long run. They explain why architects' fees are low compared to other professionals such as lawyers, and why practices find it difficult to push fees up; if they do, clients will simply shop around until they find a practice willing to do the job cheaper.But this issue also highlights another problem: few architects have any training in how to run a business, so many of them struggle when the economic environment changes.I don't know if all these things can be fixed. In the meantime, architects may vote with their feet. Low fees result in low salaries and unpaid overtime, both of which emerge as key concerns in Dezeen's survey.The culture of unpaid overtime is one that's long been accepted as just part of the job and it's how many practices stay in business. But there are signs that a younger workforce who consider mental health to be a key concern are starting to object.Read: Dezeen survey points to "broken" architecture and design industryWorking yourself to the point of exhaustion is no longer a badge of honour as it once was; instead, staff expect to have control over how much work they do and won't be bought off with perks like yoga classes and daily fruit baskets. And many of them feel that their passion is being exploited.Practices have always insisted on passion as an entry ticket to a job all employers do this to an extent but architecture also clings to the idea that work is the main source of fulfilment in life. Why else would architects work until they die?This change in attitude explains why one in five respondents expect to leave the architecture and design industry and only 10 per cent said they would "definitely" recommend a career in the field to someone younger.Here in the UK we have just witnessed the longest strike by NHS doctors in history. Nobody expected it to last so long, but the government had underestimated the bitterness felt over pay, working conditions and stress. Although many of them would like to, architects can't strike, but perhaps the lesson to be drawn is that everyone has their limits.Amanda Baillieu is the former editor of UK architecture titles Building Design and RIBA Journal. She is founder of architecture platform Archiboo, which organises talks and networking events,and co-founder of the Developer Collective. She is co-author of How to be an Architect Developer, published by RIBA in 2023.The illustration is by Marie Mohanna.Dezeen In DepthIf you enjoy reading Dezeen's interviews, opinions and features,subscribe to Dezeen In Depth. Sent on the last Friday of each month, this newsletter provides a single place to read about the design and architecture stories behind the headlines.The post "Working yourself to the point of exhaustion is no longer a badge of honour" appeared first on Dezeen.

Metal 3D printing is currently dominated by powder-based techniques like SLM (Selective Laser Melting). These processes yield incredibly precise parts, but the build times are slow. Furthermore, dealing with the powder increases manufacturing complexity: Whenever the powder is transported, loaded into the machine, or cleaned up afterwards, rigorous steps must be followed to prevent the loose spread of powder. (The powders are flammable and present an explosion risk, and can also cause respiratory issues for workers.) Following all of these steps adds cost, time, and risk.A Spain-based company called Meltio has developed a new metal 3D printing technology that does away with powder-based hassles. Rather than powder, Meltio's feedstock is metal wire, which is easy to handle on spools. The wire is fed into a point where three to six low-power diode lasers converge, creating what's known as a "melt pool." (This is sort of like the "contact patch" on a car tire, in that it's paradoxically always moving, yet always in the same place, if that makes sense.) This turns the wire into molten metal that is delivered in layers, as with FDM 3D printing. There is no waste. The technique only consumes the amount of wire needed to fabricate the part. There is no powder clean-up afterwards, and storing spools of wire is straightforward . The technique is called LMD, or Wire-Laser Metal Deposition. It can handle stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, copper and a variety of alloys. It can also feed in two different wires for the same part, meaning you can mix metals. A part could be printed with tool steel on the outside, while its core is printed with cheaper mild steel. Or a part could be printed with a combination of corrosive and anti-corrosive metals, for instance if one face will be exposed to the elements. It can also print onto or around existing parts, as seen below. This opens up some fascinating repair possibilities. Afterwards, parts can be conventionally machined if greater precision is required. (Meltio reckons this is less wasteful than if you'd machined the entire part out of a bilet, as much less material is removed.) The company points out that you needn't buy an entire machine from them; their technology can be retroactively added onto existing robot arms or CNC machines. Here's a demonstration of what the Meltio system can do:

In an age where digital dominates our daily interactions, the tactile allure of Japanese stationery offers a refreshing pause. These meticulously crafted tools invite us to slow down, savor the art of writing, and elevate our everyday routines. Known for their precision and artistry, Japanese stationery designs blend tradition with innovation, transforming simple tasks into moments of mindfulness and creativity.Whether youre a seasoned stationery enthusiast or someone seeking to add beauty and function to your workspace, the world of Japanese stationery has something for everyone. From sleek, minimalist pens that glide effortlessly across the page to ingeniously designed notebooks that inspire organization, these tools are more than just office suppliestheyre a testament to the art of intentional living.Dive into our curated list of the top 10 Japanese stationery designs, each one a masterpiece in its own right. Discover how these exquisite creations can enhance your productivity, inspire your creativity, and bring a touch of elegance to your everyday life. Prepare to be captivated by the perfect harmony of form and function that only Japanese stationery can offer.1. Inseparable Notebook PenWhy is it noteworthy?A marvel of minimalist design, this pen magnetically attaches to your notebook, ensuring your writing tool is always within reach. Its smooth ink flow and ergonomic grip make it a pleasure to use, reflecting the Japanese commitment to thoughtful craftsmanship.How it elevates your stationery experience:By integrating seamlessly with your notebook, it simplifies your workspace and encourages a fluid writing process. Whether at home or on the go, it embodies the ease and precision synonymous with Japanese design.Click Here to Buy Now: $19What we like:Magnetic clip for secure attachment.Smooth gel ink for effortless writing.Lightweight and travel-friendly.What we dislike:Ink refills are brand-specific.2. Memento Business Card LogWhy is it noteworthy?The Memento Business Card Log transforms networking into an artful experience, allowing you to store up to 120 business cards and jot down key details about each interaction. Designed by Japanese creatives with a passion for organization and precision, its a perfect blend of utility and beauty.How it elevates your stationery experience:This log isnt just about storageits about preserving connections with care. The thoughtfully designed binding and two-point slit system make organizing effortless, while its minimal aesthetic inspires you to bring mindfulness to your professional interactions.Click Here to Buy Now: $19What we like:Elegant design with a warm, tactile feel.Unique binding system for easy organization.Compact size, perfect for business travel.What we dislike:Limited to standard-sized business cards.3. Kintsugi Plain NotebookWhy is it noteworthy?Inspired by the art of Kintsugi, this notebook turns imperfection into beauty. With its eco-friendly bagasse paper and durable silk-screened cover, its not just a notebookits a reflection of Japanese values of mindfulness and sustainability.How it elevates your stationery experience:Its smooth, high-quality pages make writing an enjoyable ritual, while its design reminds you to embrace imperfections, fostering creativity and reflection.Click Here to Buy Now: $29What we like:Sustainable materials with a striking design.Lies flat for easy writing.High-quality paper prevents ink bleed.What we dislike:Plain pages may not suit those who prefer ruled layouts.4. Serenity Pen StandWhy is it noteworthy?This minimalist pen stand holds your writing instrument with elegance and precision. Its aluminum and copper dual-tone construction reflects the Japanese appreciation for balance and understated beauty.How it elevates your stationery experience:By giving your favorite pen a dedicated place on your desk, it encourages organization and showcases the artistry of your tools. Its refined design adds an air of sophistication to any workspace.Click Here to Buy Now: $39What we like:Compact and lightweight.Sturdy construction with a dual-tone finish.Complements any minimalist setup.What we dislike:Holds only one pen.5. MagBoard ClipboardWhy is it noteworthy?This innovative clipboard uses a magnet and lever mechanism to hold and rearrange sheets of paper effortlessly. Its a prime example of Japanese ingenuity, combining practicality with modern aesthetics.How it elevates your stationery experience:The MagBoard transforms traditional note-taking into a dynamic process. Its sturdy, water-resistant design makes it an ideal tool for brainstorming, sketching, or quick organization.Click Here to Buy Now: $45What we like:Securely holds up to 30 sheets of paper.Durable and easy to clean.Sleek hardcover for writing anywhere.What we dislike:Bulkier than traditional clipboards.6. Bookish BookmarkWhy is it noteworthy?This transparent acrylic bookmark keeps your book open without damaging its spine. Its curved shape and durable material reflect the Japanese focus on functionality and elegance.How it elevates your stationery experience:By making reading hands-free and enjoyable, it turns an ordinary bookmark into a thoughtful tool that enhances focus and immersion in your favorite books.Click Here to Buy Now: $65What we like:Protects pages from smudges.Lightweight and durable.Perfect for hands-free reading.What we dislike:Not ideal for very thick books.7. Everlasting All-Metal PencilWhy is it noteworthy?Crafted from aluminum with a special alloy core, this pencil provides a writing experience akin to graphite but never needs sharpening. It exemplifies Japanese innovation by combining sustainability with functionality.How it elevates your stationery experience:The Everlasting Pencil eliminates distractions like sharpening and breakage, allowing you to focus entirely on your creative process. Its durability ensures it remains a trusted companion for years.Click Here to Buy Now: $19.95What we like:Long-lasting core that never needs sharpening.Easily erasable marks.Works well with water-based markers.What we dislike:Slightly heavier than traditional pencils.8. Cut & Slice ScissorsWhy is it noteworthy?These sleek scissors double as a box cutter with a simple sliding mechanism, showcasing the Japanese flair for multifunctional tools. The fluorine-coated blade resists sticky residue, making them as practical as they are stylish.How it elevates your stationery experience:Their dual-purpose design simplifies everyday tasks, from crafting to package opening, all while adding a touch of innovation to your desk setup.Click Here to Buy Now: $29What we like:Futuristic design with ergonomic grip.Dual functionality as scissors and box cutter.Fluorine-coated blade for clean cuts.What we dislike:Not ideal for heavy-duty cutting.9. Effortless Standing Letter CutterWhy is it noteworthy?This anodized aluminum letter opener combines sleek design with practicality. Its sharp edge makes opening envelopes effortless while doubling as an elegant paperweight.How it elevates your stationery experience:By transforming a mundane task into a stylish ritual, this tool embodies the Japanese philosophy of finding beauty in the everyday.Click Here to Buy Now: $49What we like:No scraps after cutting.Durable aluminum construction.Doubles as a pen holder.What we dislike:Limited to standard envelope sizes.10. Personal WhiteboardWhy is it noteworthy?This reusable whiteboard offers a portable, eco-friendly solution for quick notes and brainstorming sessions. Its innovative cover doubles as an eraser, stand, and pocket.How it elevates your stationery experience:By providing a clutter-free alternative to paper notes, it encourages mindful organization and sustainable practices in your workspace.Click Here to Buy Now: $49What we like:Multi-functional cover and stand.Lightweight and portable.Compatible with any whiteboard marker.What we dislike:Ink may smudge if not erased promptly.Japanese stationery is more than just functionalits a reflection of a culture that values precision, intentionality, and beauty in even the smallest details. Each product in this collection carries the spirit of Japanese design, where craftsmanship and innovation meet tradition and mindfulness. From tools that streamline productivity to accessories that encourage creativity and reflection, these designs offer more than utilitythey embody the philosophy of finding joy in the everyday.In a world dominated by the digital, Japanese stationery invites us to reconnect with the analog, creating moments of focus and purpose. These carefully crafted tools remind us that even the act of writing or organizing can be an art form, filled with meaning and delight. By embracing these designs, youre not just upgrading your workspaceyoure stepping into a tradition that celebrates intentional living through the power of thoughtful design.The post 10 Best Japanese Stationery Designs to Achieve Peak Productivity first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Serenity Suiteby Diachok Architectsis where elegance whispers and tranquility reigns. It is designed with an eye for timeless sophistication. The warm and inviting spaces in this design project transform a minimalist aesthetic into a luxuriously minimalist design. Every detailfrom the soft neutral palette and play of texturesexudes a sense of calm, creating a space thats an absolute treat to be in.The living room in the Serenity Suite features an expansive area. We see a geometric sectional paired with an accent chair on one side. On the other end, an organically shaped sofa and coffee table add a sense of flow to the space. Large windows make sure to offer stunning mountainous views. The statement feature in the bedroom is a marble wall. This adds unique veining to the space. The headboard adds interesting textures, while the different nightstands on either end add a beautiful sense of asymmetry. The lighting strategy is unique: natural light, a wall-mounted globe light, and arch table lamp all layer to add illumination.The vanity in the bedroom is sleek. It features a minimalist oval mirror and a patterned ottomangiving you room to doll up while enjoying outdoor views through the window nearby.When theres such serenitywhy not take the opportunity of a few peaceful moments to work? The home office features an ergonomic wooden table and comfortable chair. A sleek table lamp provides targeted lighting. And the window nearby gives you a view to relax your eyes upon every few minutes.When working, there are always a few visitors. The modern, asymmetric sofa serves the purpose. Paired with the textured artwork at the back, it also makes a design statement.The bathroom in the Serenity Suite is a class apart. Marble slabs add the ultimate luxury. A double vanity is lit with LED strips, while the wooden storage keeps essentials hidden. Our favorite part is the freestanding bathtub, illuminated with targeted lighting and made the focal point with a marble accent wall. Nearby, a shower area with sleek hardware makes sure you get the experience you want.

Game director Frederic St. Laurent and CTO Louis Tremblay discuss using Unreal Engine 5's tools and artistic choices.

AI's big guns have been taken by surprise.