TSMC and Apple's partnership hasn't always been certain, with a new interview detailing how the company fended off an attempt by Intel to become Apple's chip foundry partner in 2011.TSMC founder Morris Chang - Image Credit: Acquired/YouTubeTSMC has a long history being Apple's chip producer, with it making everything from iPhone chips to Apple Silicon. However, there was a chance that Intel could've been in that role.In an interview with YouTube channel Acquired, TSMC founder Morris Chang explained how Apple paused talks with TSMC in February 2011, to hear a proposal from Intel. At the time, Intel wanted to become the firm to construct Apple's chips, in the midst of when Intel chips were used throughout the Mac lineup. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

Omar Gandhi Architects has offered insight into their completed White Rock retreat in Nova Scotias Gaspereau River Valley. Built atop a steep rocky incline, the scheme responds to its surrounding context which is both the unceded territory of the MiKmaq indigenous community and an active agricultural community.Image credit: Ema PeterImage credit: Ema PeterDesigned as a retreat rather than a conventional cottage, White Rock is intended to provide a remote setting with minimal environmental impact. Access to the structure involves a steep, winding driveway leading to a footpath, while the surrounding landscape has been maintained with existing tree coverage providing natural shade and a rainwater collection system supporting irrigation.Image credit: Ema PeterImage credit: Ema PeterThe schemes design is inspired by hunting cabins and duck blinds. The main volume is constructed from corten steel, elevated on steel supports, with a recessed entry section at the base, while weathered...

These annual rankings were last updated on January 30, 2025. Want to see your firm on next years list? Continue reading for more on how you can improve your studios ranking.Modernism is often associated with the International Style. However, some of the best examples are those that re-interpret existing architectural traditions through the language of contemporary building materials and technologies. Mexican architecture is exemplary in this regard. Throughout the 20th century, architects found ample inspiration in the countrys architecturally fertile history. Indeed, Mexicos countless pre-Hispanic and colonial heritages combine to form the largest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Americas. In the decades following the Mexican Revolution of 1917, federal funding for housing, education and healthcare programs fueled a creative culture of design and construction.Today, the country continues to innovate, with socio-political agendas pushing the envelope in volume, materiality and environmental footprint. While Luis Barragns name continues to loom large on the scene, Frida Escobedo and Tatiana Bilbao are also making ways by changing the urban landscape into a contemporary and socially responsible space. Mexicos architectural palimpsest has equally intrigued contemporary designers to revive the vernacular building traditions of its indigenous ancestors.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 Mexico 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 2025)The number of A+Awards finalists (2013 to 2025)The number of projects selected as Project of the Day (2009 to 2025)The number of projects selected as Featured Project (2009 to 2025)The number of projects uploaded to Architizer (2009 to 2025)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 Mexico architecture firms throughout the year.Without further ado, here are the 30 best architecture firms in Mexico:30. vgz arquitectura vgz arquitecturaVgzarquitectura was founded by Veronica Gonzalez-Zavalain 2003. Since then, the firm has received over 70 commissions, ranging from apartments, clubs, restaurants and wellness ventures to single family homes. Providing detail-oriented design, consulting and construction services, their design focuses on a thorough analysis of the site, integration of sustainable technology and a connection with its surroundings.A small firm of full time 10 architects, vgz arquitecturas trademark is the use of natural light as a main design instrument, the integration of interior and exterior spaces, and the use of locally sourced materials and craftsmanship, supporting Mexican design and high quality popular art. All their projects integrate interior design and landscape as a fundamental part of the process.Some of vgz arquitecturas most prominent projects include:Piedra Sal, Mexico City, MexicoCC48, Huixquilucan de Degollado, MexicoParnaso, Mexico City, MexicoCasa P29, Mexico City, MexicoMiralto | Nivel 40 The following statistics helped vgz arquitectura achieve 30th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 1 Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 5 29. ICONICO ICONICOBased in Mexico City and directed by founder architect moritz melchert, iconico is a contemporary architectural studio devoted to innovative design solutions. Staffed by talented, highly qualified specialists from around the world, Iconico brings consummate professional commitment to the architectural design process. Our clients include both governmental and private institutions; we design major civic, residential, office, industrial and urban projects in Mexico and abroad.Our approach to design is strongly content driven, always based on analyses of the urban, social and cultural domains and how they interact. Exploiting our key professional strengths in the areas of project management and architectural design, Iconicos field of endeavor includes everything from initial project design through construction supervision and delivery. We take our name from the term icon, which has come to signify a streamlined graphic representation of an object or idea that can be swiftly and easily grasped by the mind.Some of ICONICOs most prominent projects include:Trevox Apartments, Naucalpan, MexicoMoncayo Club House, MexicoHirschvogel, San Juan del Ro, MexicoInternational Business Center, Yerevan, ArmeniaPalo Alto Tower, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped ICONICO achieve 29th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 1 A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 1 Total Projects 15 28. FARQ Arquitectos FARQ ArquitectosIntegral Design studio based in Guadalajara, Jalisco. We seek to merge the everyday use materials with the new state of the art technology. Design, simplicity and style are our goals.Some of FARQ Arquitectos most prominent projects include:Casa J11, Zapopan, MexicoArrayan House, Zapopan, MexicoCasa Lago, Jal., MexicoLa Bendita Eventos, Zapopan, MexicoHouse in Mitica, Zapopan, Mexico The following statistics helped FARQ Arquitectos achieve 28th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 6 27. dmp arquitectura dmp arquitecturaThe firm is a multidisciplinary team that works under a common idea: create comprehensive architecture through practical and functional solutions.Throughout 30 years we have designed, built and developed more than 250 projects in different areas of the Mexican and international industry. We take care of providing personalized services to all our clients in each project, this being our main differentiator.Some of dmp arquitecturas most prominent projects include:Casa Fuentes, Ciudad Jurez, Mexicoxomali house, Mexico City,MexicoParque del Conde , Mexico City, Mexicohouse CD, Mexico City, MexicoI 24, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped dmp arquitectura achieve 27th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 14 26. ARQMOV WORKSHOP Rafael GamoWe are an architectural practice; our professional activity encompasses architecture, interior design and so-called turnkey projects, which allow clients to enjoy their new home immediately after completion. We act as a planner, in that we organize aspects of the investment scheme such as finding the ideal site, planning for common areas, designing retail and living spaces, as well as carrying out market studies and finding the right investors. We also undertake furniture design and manufacture. For us, the most important aspect of the project is to resolve each of the clients requirements on a one-by-one basis, in such a way that each design is tailored to a particular client.We are a dynamic, ambitious practice with 18 years experience in various kinds of developments, including housing complexes, luxury apartments, commercial buildings, office spaces, leisure venues and hotels in Mexico, the US, India, and other countries.Some of ARQMOV WORKSHOPs most prominent projects include:KIRAL APARTMENTSCube HouseJUST BE, MexicoColiRoma CientoVeinteOcho, Villa de Cos, MexicoHegel Apartment, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped ARQMOV WORKSHOP achieve 26th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 23 25. CENTRAL DE ARQUITECTURA CENTRAL DE ARQUITECTURACENTRAL DE ARQUITECTURA is a young enterprise which since 1998 has grown as one of the most successful real estate developers in Mexico, known for its exceptional quality and service. The architects Jos Snchez and Moiss Ison, founders and directors of CENTRAL DE ARQUITECTURA, continue creating and developing amazing projects. The focus of the company is the fusion of financial planning, architectural design, construction and Real Estate within a complete strategy which allows for taking the best advantage of available resources. At the same time they seek the excellence in construction management and design, as well as providing the deserved service to each valued customer.Some of CENTRAL DE ARQUITECTURAs most prominent projects include:Nima Bay, Puerto Vallarta, MexicoHouse La PuntaHouse ReformaAromas, Mexico City, MexicoNaos Showroom, Rosarito, Mexico The following statistics helped CENTRAL DE ARQUITECTURA achieve 25th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 37 24. Gerardo Ars Arquitectura Gerardo Ars ArquitecturaGerardo Ars Arquitectura is an architecture firm based in Mexico with projects centered around residential architecture.Some of Gerardo Ars Arquitecturas most prominent projects include:NEST HOUSE, Alvarado, MexicoThree House, Heroica Veracruz, MexicoLibertad 196, Boca del Ro, MexicoCoral House, Boca del Ro, Mexico The following statistics helped Gerardo Ars Arquitectura achieve 24th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 4 23. Dionne Arquitectos Dionne ArquitectosWe are an architecture and interior design firm located in the city of Puebla, with projects in Mexico and Texas. Formed by architects and professionals with a passion for architecture and design, we believe that communication and collaboration at all levels are basic elements in the search for better results. The taste for what we do and attention to detail identify us. We believe that good architecture touches the heart. We believe in design and seek to create works that inspire the senses. We seek to go beyond the architectural object to achieve vibrate with architecture and commit ourselves socially and environmentally with our surroundings.Some of Dionne Arquitectos most prominent projects include:Casa 8A, Puebla, MexicoCasa ATT, Puebla, MexicoHacienda San Antonio, Cholula, MexicoFlats del Parque, Puebla, MexicoEl Fresno, Atlixco, Mexico The following statistics helped Dionne Arquitectos achieve 23rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 39 22. GOMA Taller de Arquitectura GOMA Taller de ArquitecturaGOMA Taller de Arquitectura is a firm with more than 10 years of experience and continuous innovation in the design and execution of architectural and construction projects. We develop ideas and concepts aligned with the vision of our clients, and conduct them powered by the inspiration of our leaders plus the creativity and passion of each one of our collaborators.Some of GOMA Taller de Arquitecturas most prominent projects include:CasaTejocote, Santiago de Quertaro, MexicoHotel Hrcules, Santiago de Quertaro, MexicoCasa Moya, Mexico City, MexicoCervecera Hrcules, Santiago de Quertaro, MexicoCasa Jurica, Santiago de Quertaro, Mexico The following statistics helped GOMA Taller de Arquitectura achieve 22nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Finalist 2 Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 8 21. ASP Arquitectura Sergio Portillo Cesar BejarWe are an architecture firm located in Mexico City that was founded in 2014 by Sergio Portillo Alarcn, whose background includes directing and coordinating a firm and a contracting company for 10 years. His work has been published in Mexico and abroad.We focus on generating value through the contemporary practice of architecture and urbanism. Our approaches are sensitive to the context and the environment, and combine high-tech materials with regional products.We are truly committed to architecture and how people experience it. This is why we develop proposals that are relevant to the site and its environment that take the specific circumstances of each case into consideration.Some of ASP Arquitectura Sergio Portillos most prominent projects include:Casa Mika, Mexico City, MexicoVilla Jardn, MexicoCumbres House, MexicoVineyard El Pedregal, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped ASP Arquitectura Sergio Portillo achieve 21st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 4 20. Taller ADG Taller ADGTaller ADG was established as a workshop by its founder Alonso de Garay, he regards his work as an open-ended learning process, with the same dedication and passion that must be devoted to art, seeking for sensibleness in each project. Taller ADG values each stage of the creative process, which begins with research, considering issues of urbanism, sustainability, landscape, interior design and graphic identity, working with technology for construction in a single virtual model (BIM); through to post-occupation analysis and documentation. Taller ADG is mainly dedicated to architectural projects with social impact and has experience in different typologies and scales, the interventions in architectural reuse of buildings with artistic and heritage value stand out.Some of Taller ADGs most prominent projects include:Diablos Rojos Stadium, Mexico City, MexicoIzar Houses, Valle de Bravo, MexicoStone House, Monterrey, MexicoBezares Apartment, Mexico City, MexicoZacatecas, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped Taller ADG achieve 20th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Finalist 2 Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 10 19. GLR ARQUITECTOS / GIlberto L. Rodrguez GLR ARQUITECTOS / GIlberto L. RodrguezHolding a degree from the Instituto Tecnolgico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey and a Master of Architecture and Urban Design from Harvard University, Gilberto L. Rodrguez has lectured at several universities in Mexico and has given design workshops at both the Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, and the Universidad de Monterrey.His first project built, the Elizondo House, won a mention of honor at the National Biennial of Mexican Architecture in 1994. Throughout his career he has been recognized with over 20 National Design Awards, rewarding their commitment to improve the quality of the architecture of their city and their country.His firm, GLR arquitectos has developed a wide portfolio that includes residential projects as well as important mixes use developments, being in charge of both the architecture and the interior design.Some of GLR ARQUITECTOS / GIlberto L. Rodrguezs most prominent projects include:Domus Aurea by GLR Arquitectos + Estudio Alberto Campo Baeza, Monterrey, MexicoMagma Towers, Monterrey, MexicoBC House, Monterrey, MexicoCH House, Monterrey, MexicoMT House, Monterrey, Mexico The following statistics helped GLR ARQUITECTOS / GIlberto L. Rodrguez achieve 19th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 2 Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 6 18. HW Studio HW StudioHW STUDIO architects Morelia, Mexico. Is an architectural studio founded with the idea of bringing together creative architectural design talents based in the city of Morelia. HW STUDIO focuses on the design of spaces that offer personalized experiences for each of our clients.Formed by an interdisciplinary team from different countries around the world, HW STUDIO seeks a common goal, to create an architecture in which serenity, technique and beauty converge; an architecture that transmits harmony, peace and timelessness in its spaces, that is elegant but discreet for its just materiality and the precision in the assembly of its forms.Some of HW Studios most prominent projects include:Enso House II, San Miguel de Allende, MexicoJA House, Morelia, MexicoMP House, Morelia, MexicoKaji o lugar donde nace el fuego, Morelia, MexicoThe hill in front of the glen, Morelia, Mexico The following statistics helped HW Studio achieve 18th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 14 17. TEN Arquitectos TEN ArquitectosWith 34 years since its foundation by Enrique Norten and more than 80 built works, TEN Arquitectos has a portfolio that covers different kind of projects such as cultural, residential, hotels and infrastructure. With offices in Mxico City, New York and Miami the design work is always made with a global perspective and an international sensibility.This binational approach has attracted projects from different places of the world, including the Guggenheim Museum of Guadalajara, the New York Public Library, the National Theater School of Mxico City and the Rutgers Business School in New Jersey.A great sense of community from his native Mxico is implicit in all Enrique Nortens works.Some of TEN Arquitectos most prominent projects include:Hotel Americano, New York City, New YorkMercedes House, New York City, New YorkNational Laboratory of Genomics (LANGEBIO), Irapuato, MexicoMUNPIC, Len de los Aldama, Mexico580 Carroll Street, New York City, New York The following statistics helped TEN Arquitectos achieve 17th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Finalist 2 Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 28 16. Broissin Architects Broissin ArchitectsDifferent areas of our society evolve constantly location, conviction, values and habits. Traditions start to disappear and daily life vanishes. Every moment is unique and ephemeral for our memories, but it is not for the Web. Now, goals are short-term our thoughts are wanderers. We have to start from basics and with new goals; remain optimize, produce, reduce, recycle, and re-utilize.Our work is the evidence of everyday circumstances. There are no protocols for design. There are neither processes nor methodologies to follow. There are no recipes. Every project is the result of reflection, analysis, and the daily life. We look for equilibrium, the customer, the architect, and the architecture within the same though, within a communion of ideas.Some of Broissin Architects most prominent projects include:Green Hills Kindergarten, Ciudad Lpez Mateos, MexicoCentro Cultural Roberto Cantoral, Coyoacn, Mexico City, MexicoChantli Kuaulakoyokan, Mexico City, MexicoIREKUA ANATANI House, Avandaro, Valle de Bravo, MexicoArchdays Pavillion Egaligilo, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped Broissin Architects achieve 16th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Finalist 4 Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 10 15. Michan Architecture Michan ArchitectureMichan Architecture is a studio based in Mexico City founded in 2010. The practice operates as a laboratory of architecture, exploring new possibilities within the discipline. We see architecture as a flirtation towards the built environment; a question towards the norm, a speculation of what the future can be.The studio has been awarded by the Architectural League of New York with The League Prize for Young Architects + Designers 2020. In 2019 they were recipients of Design Vanguard award from Architectural Record Magazine, which honors 10 emerging practices from around the world. That are demonstrating inventive approaches to shaping the built environment. DL1310 ApartmentBuilding designed in collaboration with Young & Ayata received the 2019 Progressive Architecture Award from Architect Magazine.Some of Michan Architectures most prominent projects include:Social Housing Z53, Azcapotzalco, MexicoChapultepec 500, Mexico City, MexicoPavilion ( ), Mexico City, MexicoOKU, Mexico City, MexicoTL2816, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped Michan Architecture achieve 15th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 1 Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 13 14. AIDIA STUDIO AIDIA STUDIOAIDIA STUDIO is a platform of experimental design in architecture, urbanism, photography and other creative disciplines. We work across scales and typologies from interiors to urbanism and strive always for specific responses with intricate and sophisticated beauty. AIDIA STUDIO was founded by Rolando Rodriguez-Leal and Natalia Wrzask and has a presence in London and Mexico City.Some of AIDIA STUDIOs most prominent projects include:Tulum Train Station, Tulum, MexicoThe Rub al Khali OCULUSBe Time I Mobile Meditation Studio, New York City, New YorkNew Preston MosquePyeongchang Knowledge Hub The following statistics helped AIDIA STUDIO achieve 14th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 1 A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 15 13. ROTH ARCHITECTURE ROTH ARCHITECTURECreated by Roth Azulik, Roth Architecture is rooted in the unique combination of three fundamental pillars: nature, ancestry and art.Some of ROTH ARCHITECTUREs most prominent projects include:Sfer ik Museion Uh May, Francisco Uh May, MexicoResidence Uh May, Q.R., MexicoZak Ik Tulum, Tulum, Mexico The following statistics helped ROTH ARCHITECTURE achieve 13th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 1 A+Awards Finalist 3 Featured Projects 2 Total Projects 3 12. Garza Iga Arquitectos Garza Iga ArquitectosGarza Iga Arquitectos is dedicated to the creation, research and innovation of architecture, design and construction. Based in Chihuahua, Mexico, the firm has participated in projects of various types, such as residential, cultural, institutional and commercial.Some of Garza Iga Arquitectos most prominent projects include:Cima House, Chihuahua, MexicoPedregal House, Chihuahua, MexicoPedregal House, Chihuahua, MexicoMitre House, Chihuahua, MexicoCIMA HOUSE, Chihuahua, Mexico The following statistics helped Garza Iga Arquitectos achieve 12th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 8 11. Cherem Arquitectos Cherem ArquitectosIn 2003 architect Abraham Cherem founded Cherem Arquitectos, and in 2013 he associated with architect Jose Antonio Aguilar. Its diverse body of work includes cultural, residential, commercial and hospitality projects, among others. Cherem Arquitectos work combine a selection of local materials with the most convenient technology available for each project, shaping a proposal that dialogues with its immediate environment.Aware about what they design has a direct impact on the planet, each project represents a challenge not only for today but for the future, therefore the detailed selection of materials and the respect to them.Some of Cherem Arquitectos most prominent projects include:Guesthouse Casa Candelaria, San Miguel de Allende, MexicoCasa Candelaria, MexicoHouse P, MexicoTebila, Mexico City, MexicoDowntown Hotel, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped Cherem Arquitectos achieve 11th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 2 A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 4 Total Projects 6 10. EDAA | Estrategias para el Desarrollo de Arquitectura EDAA | Estrategias para el Desarrollo de ArquitecturaEDAA, or Estrategias para el Desarrollo de Arquitectura (Strategies for the Development of Architecture), is a Mexico City based architecture office whose practice is focused on the production of contemporary architecture through diverse disciplines: architectural and graphic design, illustration, construction, commercial strategies and financial design. It was founded as an independent practice by Luis Arturo Garca after several years of working in different architecture, landscape and urban design practices in Mexico and Canada.Some of EDAA | Estrategias para el Desarrollo de Arquitecturas most prominent projects include:Casa Meztitla, Tepoztln, MexicoAt the Table with Rapitae, Mexico City, MexicoMarble, wood, paint. Rice by Edaa + Yupica, Mexico City, MexicoYacatas 475, Mexico City, MexicoTaxco 25: Townhouses The following statistics helped EDAA | Estrategias para el Desarrollo de Arquitectura achieve 10th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 2 A+Awards Finalist 2 Featured Projects 3 Total Projects 6 9. Elas Rizo Arquitectos Elas Rizo ArquitectosEverything is summed up in one simple idea: create beautiful spaces that improve our clients everyday life. Its about fulfilling the clients needs with commitment to honesty, service and quality. Architecture not only gives us eternity and shelter, but it embraces us, its a contained space that holds the course of our life. Its always there to teach us, but above all gives us fantasies. We believe we are a driving force for our culture and context, having an unavoidable impact in our projects surroundings, which entails great responsibility.Some of Elas Rizo Arquitectoss most prominent projects include:Casa RO, Guadalajara, MexicoCasa La Punta, Punta de Mita, MexicoCasa Lomas, Guadalajara, MexicoCasa VR, Tapalpa, MexicoCasa MM Casa, Tapalpa, Mexico The following statistics helped Elas Rizo Arquitectos achieve 9th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 21 8. Cafena Design Cafena DesignCafena is a comprehensive architecture firm that focuses on creating and transforming authentic and inclusive spaces through a multidisciplinary, human, innovative and positive approach to projects. We are currently developing mixed-use, educational, commercial and residential projects in Latin America, and USA, with offices in Mexico and New York.Some of Cafena Designs most prominent projects include:Barrenechea House Extension, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, BoliviaConstitucin 8, Puebla, MexicoSol 25, PUE, MexicoTadeo 4909, Puebla, Mexico Chilsec Organic Food Production Center, Tlaola, Mexico The following statistics helped Cafena Design achieve 8th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 8 Total Projects 13 7. COTAPAREDES Arquitectos COTAPAREDES ArquitectosThe idea of architecture means creating small worlds, public or private, places that can be related to what exist, or can be isolated and belong to a private universe. They must contain the aspirations of the clients and the searches of the architect. We seek to create clean and useful architecture, with Mexican features, geometric forms, sometimes heavy and other times light.Some of COTAPAREDES Arquitectos most prominent projects include:The Cave, Zapopan, MexicoSaln Loccoco, Guadalajara, MexicoCasa para ver al Cielo / House to see the Sky, Guadalajara, MexicoOlgun House, Tlajomulco de Ziga, MexicoV House, Guadalajara, Mexico The following statistics helped COTAPAREDES Arquitectos achieve 7th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 10 6. Garza Maya Arquitectos Garza Maya ArquitectosDesign and construction workshop based in San Pedro Garza Garca, Mxico.Some of Garza Maya Arquitectos most prominent projects include:Cima House, Chihuahua, MexicoPedregal House, Chihuahua, MexicoPedregal House, Chihuahua, MexicoMitre House, Chihuahua, MexicoCIMA HOUSE, Chihuahua, Mexico The following statistics helped Garza Maya Arquitectos achieve 6th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 7 Total Projects 14 5. Dellekamp DellekampDellekamp Arquitectos is dedicated to the development and supervision of architectural projects regardless of scale or program type with a rigorous research methodology. We aim to find unique solutions to the specific conditions of each project in order to maximize its intendedbudget, image, use, context and spirit.The coordination and collaboration with various disciplines such as engineering, graphic design, industrial design, environmental engineering and landscape architecture makes up a great part of our activities, adding value to our team of specialists focused on the accomplishment of integral solutions. Simultaneously, Dellekamp Arquitectos is involved in ongoing architectural research that fosters a laboratory of ideas that can feed our activities. This way, we are constantly a part of the academic and teaching realms, as well as research studies, lectures, publications, biennales and exhibitions.Some of Dellekamps most prominent projects include:Cabo House, Cabo San Lucas, MexicoCB 29, Mexico City, MexicoCasas Mestre / House of Stairs, Valle de Bravo, MexicoHouse of Switzerland Alameda Pavilion , Mexico City, MexicoL House, Mexico The following statistics helped Dellekamp achieve 5th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: Featured Projects 9 Total Projects 25 4. Archetonic ArchetonicIn our work we consistently apply the same fundamental, governing principle: we must improve our projects surroundings, and we can achieve this with a single project. We give utmost importance to everyone who lives in, passes through or observes our work. Our job is to offer high-quality spaces for everyone, and to insert projects optimally within their respective contexts. Our design work focuses on reality in every sense: we seek to ensure environmental self-sustainability and to offer the best, most profitable and affordable products.Some of Archetonics most prominent projects include:AMANI, Puebla, MexicoEB Meeting Place, Tultitln de Mariano Escobedo, MexicoQUINTAS, Cuernavaca, MexicoONNEMild GH, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped Archetonic achieve 4th place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 3 A+Awards Finalist 3 Featured Projects 5 Total Projects 16 3. grupoarquitectura grupoarquitecturaGrupo Arquitectura is a company lead by Daniel lvarez, with more than forty years of experience in the fields of architecture and construction.Countless projects of all kinds have been developed, including both single-family and multi-family residences, office buildings, commercial buildings, hospitals, interior design, urban planning, and landscaping. We have multiple recognitions and awards in Mexico and internationally.Weve always worked with a multi-disciplinary team and always very closely with our clients, understanding perfectly the needs and claims of each project.Some of grupoarquitecturas most prominent projects include:Four Houses Pilares, Valle de Bravo, MexicoDalias House, Mexico City, MexicoHidalga House, Mexico City, MexicoLa Casa en el Bosque, Mexico City, MexicoCasa Vista al Lago, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped grupoarquitectura achieve 3rd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 10 Total Projects 31 2. PPAA PPAAOur architecture emerges through understanding that our creative process is an open one, a medium, and a message. It is a process that is constantly put to the test, by the multiple relations that are in its surroundings.We like to think that the way we have of understand architecture implies that work cannot be done without considering both communal and personal intentions. Therefore, our conception of architecture is based on an understanding of the body and the relationship everyone establishes with their surroundings, creating an architecture of ideas and not forms.Some of PPAAs most prominent projects include:La Quinta, San Miguel de Allende, MexicoFeatured image: Copas, Valle de Bravo, MexicoOctavia, MexicoCasa Campanario, Santiago de Quertaro, MexicoCarrizal , Mexico The following statistics helped PPAA achieve 2nd place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 2 A+Awards Finalist 1 Featured Projects 9 Total Projects 22 1. Sordo Madaleno Sordo MadalenoSordo Madaleno is an interdisciplinary architecture, urban, and interior design firm with a global vision and 85 years of experience that is committed to clients around the world. The practice is dedicated to excellence in architectural design with a sustainable approach to social development. Leadership flows through three generations of professionals who have developed and calibrated the vision of an evolving urban laboratory to create new experiences locally, regionally, and globally. The practice is based in Mexico City with a newly established studio in London led by Fernando Sordo Madaleno.Some of Sordo Madalenos most prominent projects include:Solaz Los Cabos, B.C.S., MexicoLing Ling, Mexico City, MexicoValle San Nicols Clubhouse, Valle de Bravo, MexicoAkumal Monterrey, San Pedro Garza Garca, MexicoGSM-SMA Headquarters, Mexico City, Mexico The following statistics helped Sordo Madaleno achieve 1st place in the 30 Best Architecture Firms in Mexico: A+Awards Winner 6 A+Awards Finalist 7 Featured Projects 9 Total Projects 51 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 Mexico appeared first on Journal.

Minimalist and authentic portraits focus on simplicity, raw emotion, and a deep connection with the subject. These portraits strip away distractions, relying on clean composition, natural lighting, and honest storytelling to create powerful images. Heres how to achieve minimalist authenticity in your portraits while maintaining a professional edge. Stripping down the sceneMinimalist portraits are defined by their lack of clutter. Every element in the frame should serve a purpose and contribute to the story youre telling. Clean backgroundsOpt for neutral or solid-colored backgrounds that keep the viewers attention on the subject. A blank wall, an expanse of sky, or a simple outdoor scene with limited visual noise works best. Selective propsIf you use props, ensure they enhance the story or mood without overwhelming the frame. A single flower, a textured scarf, or a vintage chair can add subtle context while keeping the composition clean.Connecting with your subjectAuthenticity comes from the genuine connection between the photographer and the subject. Creating a relaxed and comfortable environment is essential. Engage in conversationSpend time talking to your subject before and during the shoot. Casual conversation helps ease tension and reveals genuine emotions that translate beautifully on camera.Give gentle directionEncourage natural movements and expressions. Instead of rigid poses, ask your subject to think about a specific memory or emotion to evoke a candid response. Focus on the eyesThe eyes are the window to the soul and are central to authentic portraits. Pay attention to where your subject is looking, and ensure their gaze aligns with the mood you want to convey. Light and shadow in minimalist portraitsLighting is one of the most critical elements in minimalist photography. It sets the tone and emphasizes the subjects features without overpowering the simplicity of the image.Natural lightUse soft, diffused natural light for a timeless and organic feel. Window light or overcast skies provide flattering illumination without harsh shadows.Directional light for depthSide lighting can add depth and texture to your portrait, creating gentle contrasts that highlight facial features. This technique is especially effective for black-and-white portraits, where light and shadow become more pronounced. Negative space with lightEmbrace shadows and areas of low light to create a sense of mystery or introspection. Negative space can frame your subject in a way that draws attention to their expression and emotion.Composing for simplicity and impactComposition plays a significant role in minimalist portraits. The right framing, angles, and focus points will elevate your images and create a lasting impression.Tight cropsFocus on details like the face, hands, or a specific feature that tells a story. Tight crops eliminate unnecessary distractions and draw the viewer into the subjects world. Asymmetry for interestBreak away from traditional centered compositions by placing your subject off-center. Asymmetrical framing adds balance and intrigue to the image while adhering to minimalist principles.Negative space for focusUse ample negative space to isolate your subject and evoke a sense of calm or introspection. This approach works especially well in outdoor portraits, where an expanse of sky or open field can frame the subject beautifully.Embracing imperfectionAuthenticity often lies in the imperfections. Dont be afraid to include subtle flaws or imperfections in your portraitsthey make the image feel real and relatable. Natural expressionsInstead of striving for perfection, capture moments of laughter, contemplation, or vulnerability. These raw emotions are more impactful than staged perfection.In-the-moment detailsLook for unscripted elements, like a strand of hair caught in the wind or the way a subject adjusts their clothing. These small moments add depth and authenticity to the portrait.Minimalist and authentic portraits are about distilling photography to its purest formcapturing the essence of the subject without distractions. By focusing on simplicity, light, and emotional connection, you can create images that resonate deeply and leave a lasting impression. Take the time to observe, connect, and craft each frame with intention, and your portraits will reflect the beauty of authenticity.Not on 500px yet? Sign up here to explore more impactful photography.The post Authenticity in minimalist portraits appeared first on 500px.

As part of the recent Microsoft earnings call, CEO Satya Nadella has revealed that Game Pass has been doing quite well. Nadella praised the subscription service for setting a new quarterly record for not only revenue, but the growth in its subscribers as well.According to Nadella, the subscriber base for PC Game Pass grew by more than 30 percent in Q2 2025. This likely contributed to the report 2 percent rise in revenue from Xbox content and services, which would include Game Pass subscriptions as well as Xbox and PC game sales.All-up, Game Pass set a new quarterly record for revenue and grew its PC subscriber base by over 30%, as we focus on driving fully-paid subscribers across endpoints, said Nadella in the earnings call.Nadella also praised the critical response for Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, as well as the sales of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. For context, the latest Call of Duty managed to top the charts on both Xbox consoles as well as on PlayStation. Xbox Cloud Gaming also got a shout-out, with Nadella praising 140 million hours worth of gaming being streamed through the service in the quarter.Black Ops 6 was the top-selling game on Xbox and PlayStation this quarter and saw more players in its launch quarter than any other paid release in franchise history, said Nadella. And we saw rave reviews of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, which has already been played by more than 4 million people.Looking forward, Microsoft CFO Amy Hood said that the company expects growth from Xbox to be in the low single digits. Hood also notes that the company expects revenue from hardware sales to decline. The growth for Xbox is expected to come from software sales as well as the steadily growing subscriber base for Game Pass.And in Gaming, we expect revenue growth to be in the low single digits, said Hood. We expect Xbox content and services revenue growth to be in the low to mid-single digits driven by first-party content as well as Xbox Game Pass. Hardware revenue will decline year-over-year.It is worth noting that, while Xbox made money on the content and services side of things, Microsoft also reported a 29 percent fall in revenue for Xbox hardware. The overall revenue for the Xbox division as a whole sits at 7 percent lower than what it made in Q2 2024.While console sales have certainly been falling according to Circana analyst Mat Piscatella, it is also quite likely that Microsofts recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard, which set the company back by around $69 billion, might have played a role in the lower reported revenue.Despite Nadella praising the growth of Game Pass, especially on PC, previous reports have indicated that developers might end up losing out on sales in bringing their titles to the subscription serv`ice. According to the report, some developers have reported that they expect to lose around 80 percent of sales on Xbox by bringing their titles to the subscription.Multi-platform games, on the other hand, seemed to see quite a bit of benefit from coming to Game Pass, especially for multiplayer. Sales tended to rise on PlayStation as well as Xbox owing to larger player bases thanks to Game Pass.

GamesRadar has announced that the Future Games Show returns on March 20th from an unlikely location: the Game Developers Conference (GDC). The Spring Showcase will feature new trailers for triple-A and indie titles, world premieres and exclusive game demos.Though its yet to be confirmed which titles are appearing, content director of games video and events Daniel Dawkins said, The Future Games Shows mission is to help its viewers discover the best new games, with a special focus on the off-radar AAs, sleeper hits, and innovative indies. However, dont expect Team Cherrys Hollow Knight: Silksong to suddenly appear and drop a release date after everything thats happened.After the Spring Showcase, an FGS Live from GDC stream will take place the following day. It promises more trailers, developer interviews and even some news from the show floor, so stay tuned for updates.The Game Developers Conference runs from March 17th to 21st. Alongside talks by various studios, it has the Game Developers Choice Awards on March 19th. Thus far, Astro Bot, Animal Well and Black Myth: Wukong are leading the nominees. Check out the full list here.

Exhibition: Beyond the Wall. Image credit: Toronto Metropolitan UniversityA new exhibition will be coming soon to the Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU)s Paul H. Cocker Gallery.The exhibition, called Beyond the Wall, records separation by design and the experience of facing oppressive walls and the ways that people transform them.Beyond the Wall aims to reject the designers role in enabling the destruction of people, places, and identities in Gaza, Palestine, and beyond. In order to communicate human experiences behind numbers, this exhibit captures the struggle and stories of steadfastness, understanding, and visions of a better future.When confined by a wall, fence, or barrier, we may feel alone, unable to see our experience as one in a series. Through a narrative sequence of case studies, the exhibit reveals parallels between seemingly disparate systems of control, reads TMUs website.Simultaneously, we are linked by the instinct to find a crack in the walla gap through which we can envision a different world or a different wall. This exhibition thus highlights the parallels between various citizen-led interventions that redefine the wall as a surface for self-expression, a shaper of gathering spaces, or something to be transgressed. Here, that effort is humanized and celebrated. The wall is a tool for both control and agency.The exhibition will open on February 27, and run until April 3, 2025.For more information, click here.The post New exhibition at TMU to spotlight experience of facing oppressive walls appeared first on Canadian Architect.

Seals with the signs and symbols of the Indus Valley civilization are waiting to be deciphered. Gary Todd via Wikimedia Commons under CC0 1.0More than 5,300 years ago, a civilization emerged along the lush basins of theIndus River in present-day northwest India and Pakistan. Its residents, mostly farmers and traders, lived in cities of baked brick, making it one of the worlds earliesturban civilizations.But around 2500 B.C.E., residentsmigrated away from big cities likeHarappa andMohenjo-Darowith estimated peak populations of80,000 residents combinedand dispersed into smaller villages in the foothills of the Himalayas. Eventually, theIndus Valley civilization faded away.It left behind artifacts and archaeological sites that have kept scholars busy for centuriesmany featuring a mysterious script that nobody has been able to read. The reason behind its demise remains a mystery, as do the rules and beliefs of the society, all possibly locked behind their yet-to-be deciphered language, as Regina Sienra writes forMy Modern Met.To encourage the decipherment of the ancient Indus script, the government ofTamil Nadu, a state in southern India, announced a massive cash prize for anyonescholar or amateurwho can crack the code and begin the process of better understanding the enigmatic Indus Valley civilization. The Indus River Valley, as seen from the International Space Station Public domain via Wikimedia CommonsWe have not been able to clearly understand the writing system of the once flourishing Indus Valley, saysM.K. Stalin, the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, according to Divya Chandrababu of theHindustan Times. The riddle hasnt been answered for the past 100 years despite several efforts by archaeologists and experts. I announce a cash prize of $1 million to individuals or organizations that decipher the script to the satisfaction of archaeological experts.Stalins announcement comes on the heels of a recent archaeological study that suggests similarities between the mysterious Indus script and ancient graffiti in Tamil Nadu, on the other side of the country.In the study,K. Rajan, an archaeologist at Pondicherry University, and R. Sivananthan, the deputy director of the states archaeological department, digitized 15,000 graffiti-marked pot shards from 140 archaeological sites in Tamil Nadu and compared them against 4,000 examples of the Indus Valley script. They found that nearly 60 percent of the signs matched and 90 percent shared parallels, according to Arun Janardhanan of theIndian Express.While the study could indicate cultural contact or shed light on the migration of the Indus people across modern-day India, the authors emphasized that their study took a morphological approach, rather than a linguistic one. That is, aside from stirring up Tamil Nadus interest in the far-flung Indus Valley, it hasnt brought archaeologists any closer to deciphering the million-dollar script.The Indus script is especially perplexing because it tends to occur in short inscriptions, usually around five symbols long, according to Artnets Min Chen. The absence of a bilingual artifact like theRosetta Stone only exacerbates the difficulty.That hasnt stopped amateurs from giving it their best shot, even before Stalins $1 million incentive.Rajesh P.N. Rao, a computer scientist at the University of Washington who studies the Indus script, tells Soutik Biswas of BBC News that he receives emails every week from enthusiasts who claim theyve solved it and that the case is closed.But the case is not closed, and Rao thinks that previousefforts to infuse the script with spiritual and religious meaning ignore the fact that the script has mostly been found on objects of commerce, according to BBC News. The typical layout includes signs running across the top of a seal with an animal figure underneath. A common type of Indus Valley seal, featuring several signs above a unicorn figure and an unidentified object Ismoon via Wikimedia Commons under CC0 1.0Scholars like Rao have increasingly turned to computer science and machine learning tools to identify patterns in the arrangement of these signs and symbols.Using a data set of Indus signs, for instance,Nisha Yadav, a computer scientist at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Mumbai, determined that 67 signs account for about 80 percent of the written script.We still don't know whether the signs are complete words, or part of words or part of sentences, Yadav tells BBC News. Our understanding is that the script is structured and there is an underlying logic in the writing.Still, the $1 million meaning of the signs and symbols remains elusive.What did the Indus people write? Yadav adds. I wish we knew.Get the latest stories in your inbox every weekday.Filed Under: Ancient Civilizations, Archaeology, Asian History, Hinduism, History, India, Language, linguistics , Mysteries, New Research, South Asia

Finnish mobile studio Fingersoft has brought back Teemu Nrhi for another stint as CEO.Nrhi will officially take the helm on February 7, 2025, and previously served as Fingersoft CEO from 2014 to 2019. He left the role to step back into the production trenches but remained a member of the board.Outgoing CEO Jaakko Kylmoja led the company for around four years and will now join the board of directors.Fingersoft founder and chairman Toni Fingerroos thanked Kylmoja for steering the studio through the pandemic and navigating challenging industry conditionswhich resulted in the studio laying off 14 workers in October last year (thanks PG.biz)."We extend a sincere thank you to Jaakko Kylmoja for his outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to Fingersoft," he added."Over his four years as CEO, he has faced a number of external challenges, such as the pandemic and drastic industry changes, and he's boldly led the company through all of them while developing and launching great new games such as LEGO Hill Climb Adventures. It is a pleasure to continue to have his experience on the board of directors."Fingerroos said Nrhi was reappointed as CEO because of his "extensive experience" and expressed confidence in his ability to "form a clear direction for the company."Discussing his return to the c-suite, Nrhi said he wants Fingersoft to build on the success of the Hill Climb Racing franchise while strengthening its studio culture and producing "beloved games."