HBO has released the official trailer for The Last of Us Season 2 during a recent panel at South by Southwest (SXSW). The seven-episode second season will debut April 13, and also stream on Max.In Season 2, five years have passed since the events of Season 1. Joel and Ellie are drawn into conflict with each other and a world even more dangerous and unpredictable than the one they left behind.Returning cast includes Pedro Pascal as Joel; Bella Ramsey as Ellie; Gabriel Luna as Tommy; and Rutina Wesley as Maria. Newcomers include Kaitlyn Dever as Abby; Isabela Merced as Dina; Young Mazino as Jesse; Ariela Barer as Mel; Tati Gabrielle as Nora; Spencer Lord as Owen; Danny Ramirez as Manny; and Jeffrey Wright as Isaac. Catherine OHara guest stars.The Last of Us, based on the Naughty Dog video game franchise for PlayStation, is written and executive produced by Craig Mazin and Druckmann. The series is a co-production with Sony Pictures Television and is also executive produced by Carolyn Strauss, Jacqueline Lesko, Cecil OConnor, Asad Qizilbash, Carter Swan, and Evan Wells. Halley Gross acts as writer and co-executive producer. Production companies include PlayStation Productions, Word Games, Mighty Mint, and Naughty Dog.VFX vendors on Season 2 include Clear Angle Studios, Digital Domain, and DNEG.Source: HBO Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologistL'Wrenbrings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.

Chris Sanders returns as the voice of the famed, fluffy renegade Stitch in Disneys live-action/CGI hybridcomedy adventure, Lilo & Stitch. And we finally get a glimpse of our favorite, quirky Ohana back together!Disneys reimagining of the original, 2002 animated classic tells the story of an unlikely familial bond formed by a lonely Hawaiian girl named Lilo and a cuddly, fugitive alien named Stitch, who is genetically engineered by a mad scientist to wreak havoc in the universe.The film stars Sydney Elizebeth Agudong, Billy Magnussen, Tia Carrere, Hannah Waddingham, and Chris Sanders, with Courtney B. Vance, and Zach Galifianakis, and introduces Maia Kealoha.Lilo & Stitchis directed by Dean Fleischer Camp (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On) from a script penned by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes. Dan Lin and Jonathan Eirich, p.g.a. are producing, with Tom Peitzman, Ryan Halprin, Louie Provost, and Thomas Schumacher serving as executive producers.The adaptations creative team includes production designer Todd Cherniawsky (Obi-Wan Kenobi, Star Trek: Picard) and visual effects supervisor Craig Hammack (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Black Panther, Tomorrowland). VFX on the film are being handled by Clear Angle Studios, Day For Nite, DNEG, DNEG/Redefine, ILM, ILM Stagecraft, Lola VFX, Luma Pictures, MPC, Rodeo FX, SDFX Studios, and Sony Pictures Imageworks.Lilo & Stitchhits theaters May 23, 2025.Source: Walt Disney Studios Dan Sarto is Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Animation World Network.

Movie & Games TrailersDeath of a UnicornBy Vincent Frei - 12/03/2025 What happens when you hit a unicorn with your car? For Elliott and Ridley, it leads to a twisted adventure at a billionaires secret retreat. Watch the new trailer for Death of a Unicorn now!The VFX are made by:Zoic Studios (VFX Supervisor: Rob Price, VFX Producer: Danica Tsang)The Production VFX Supervisor is Andrew Orloff.The Production VFX Producer is Jeremy Newmark.Director: Alex ScharfmanRelease Date: March 28, 2025 (USA) Vincent Frei The Art of VFX 2025

Wailea Neighborhood in Maui | Luke Scarpino via UnsplashMaui has long been a sought-after destination for investing in real estate. Its stunning beaches, warm climate, and strong tourism market make it a prime location for vacation rentals and long-term investments. Whether youre interested in high-end luxury homes, affordable condos, or properties with long-term appreciation potential, Maui has diverse neighborhoods to explore. Knowing where to invest is crucial, as some areas offer better returns while others provide lifestyle benefits. Below, we explore the best neighborhoods in Maui for real estate investment and what makes them stand out in todays market.1. Wailea Luxury and High ROIWailea is synonymous with luxury, offering some of the most exclusive properties in Maui. Investors looking for high-end homes with strong rental demand will find plenty of options in this upscale community. Home values in Wailea consistently rise, making it a prime location for long-term appreciation.The area boasts world-class golf courses, luxury resorts, and fine dining, attracting affluent buyers and vacationers alike. Many investors purchase condos in Wailea to capitalize on the lucrative short-term rental market. With limited inventory and high demand, Wailea remains one of the best places in Maui for real estate investment.2. Khei Affordable and High-Demand RentalsKhei offers a more affordable entry point into Maui real estate while providing excellent rental potential. The area features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condos, making it accessible to many investors.The warm, dry climate and proximity to beautiful beaches make Khei a popular choice for residents and tourists. Due to consistent visitor demand, short-term vacation rentals perform particularly well in this area. Consult resources like MauiRealEstate.com to learn about and find properties that experience strong occupancy rates year-round, making them a reliable investment for those seeking rental income.3. Lahaina Strong Tourism and Historical AppealBlack Rock Beach in Lahaina, Maui | Dennis Yu via UnsplashLahaina is one of Mauis most visited towns, known for its rich history, bustling Front Street, and oceanfront charm. Investors seeking high occupancy rates will find this area especially appealing. Short-term rentals thrive here, thanks to a steady stream of tourists looking for convenient and scenic accommodations.While Lahaina offers many vacation rental opportunities, its also a great place for long-term investments. Many buyers purchase homes here to use as vacation properties while renting them out when not in use. With limited land for development, real estate in Lahaina continues to appreciate, making it a solid investment choice.4. Kapalua Exclusive and ScenicKapalua Bay | John Bell via UnsplashFor those interested in luxury real estate, Kapalua is another top choice. This quiet, upscale area offers stunning ocean views, championship golf courses, and high-end resorts. The real estate market in Kapalua is competitive, but investors willing to enter will find a strong potential for appreciation.Kapalua properties attract buyers looking for exclusivity and tranquility. While vacation rentals exist, the area leans toward second-home buyers and long-term investors. Homes in Kapalua hold their value well, thanks to limited availability and an attractive lifestyle that appeals to high-net-worth individuals.5. Wailuku Local Appeal and Growing DemandWailuku | Patrick Wong via UnsplashWailuku provides a more affordable option for investors who want to tap into Mauis long-term rental market. As the islands county seat, Wailuku is home to government offices, schools, and businesses, creating a strong demand for housing.Unlike areas focused on vacation rentals, Wailuku offers steady income potential from long-term tenants. The town has grown significantly recently, with new developments and infrastructure improvements increasing its desirability. Investors looking for a market with sustainable demand and lower entry costs will find Wailuku attractive.6. Haik A Haven for Nature Lovers and Unique PropertiesHaik offers something different from Mauis resort-heavy areas. Located on the lush north shore, this community appeals to buyers looking for privacy, natural beauty, and large land parcels. Investors seeking long-term appreciation rather than short-term rental income will find great opportunities here.Properties in Haik range from off-grid retreats to modern homes on acres of tropical land. The demand for eco-conscious and sustainable living is rising, making this an attractive location for those interested in green investments. While short-term rentals are less common due to zoning laws, long-term rental demand is strong among locals who prefer a quieter lifestyle.7. Pia Bohemian Vibes and High Property Demand Griffin Wooldridge via PexelsPia, a small town on the north shore, has gained popularity as a vibrant and artistic community. Once a quiet plantation town, it is now known for its surf culture, boutique shops, and organic eateries. This unique character has made real estate in Pia highly desirable, with homes often selling quickly.Investment opportunities here are ideal for those looking at long-term value. While vacation rentals exist, the towns strict zoning laws limit short-term options. Many buyers purchase homes for personal use and rent them out seasonally. With a strong local community and limited available land, property values in Pia continue to rise.8. Makawao Upcountry Charm with Strong Local DemandMakawao, located in Mauis upcountry region, offers a different type of investment opportunity. Known for its paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture, rolling hills, and cooler temperatures, this area attracts buyers who want a break from the coastal heat.Homes in Makawao range from historic plantation-style houses to modern builds on spacious lots. The town has a strong local rental market, with long-term tenants seeking a peaceful, small-town atmosphere. Investors interested in steady rental income rather than vacation-based revenue will find Makawao to be a stable and rewarding market.9. Kanapali Resort-Style Living with Strong Rental ReturnsNapili Bay | Andrew Bain via UnsplashKanapali is one of Mauis most established resort communities, making it a prime location for vacation rental investments. It is located on the islands west side and boasts world-famous beaches, golf courses, and high-end resorts. The steady flow of tourists ensures high occupancy rates for rental properties, particularly condos.Many investors purchase condos in Kanapali for short-term vacation rentals, as they provide excellent cash flow. The areas well-maintained infrastructure and consistent tourism demand make it a reliable choice. While home prices are higher than in some other areas, the return on investment remains strong due to year-round visitor interest.Mauis real estate market offers many opportunities, from luxury beachfront homes to affordable upcountry investments. Each neighborhood has its unique advantages, whether its high tourist demand, long-term rental stability, or strong appreciation potential.For short-term rental income interests, areas like Khei, Lahaina, and Kanapali provide excellent returns. Meanwhile, investors looking for long-term value and local appeal may find Wailuku, Makawao, and Haik better choices. Regardless of the location, Mauis desirability ensures that well-chosen investments will continue to appreciate, making it a solid market for real estate buyers.Real Estate by ArchEyes TeamLeave a comment

On March 21, the Facades+ conference series will take place in Atlanta at the Marriott Marquis. AN partnered with Alexander Briseno, Sam Pruitt, and Parker Stewart of HKS to assemble some of the best design work in the region for a dynamic day of programming. The conference consists of case studies covering Atlanta projects and topical roundtable discussions on tectonic plasticity, energy performance, facade collaboration, adaptive facade systems, and material innovation in facades. Attendees can also explore the Methods + Materials gallery, showcasing innovations from 20 leading building product companies. Click here for more details and registration.A curtain wall draws light into the Piedmont Marcus Heart & Cardiovascular Tower (Katie Bricker Tessaro and Tom Harris )Seamless Harmony: Curved Glass, Terracotta, and Historic Brick FacadesThe Piedmont Marcus Heart & Cardiovascular Tower features a striking curved facade that enhances a public plaza along the Peachtree corridor, creating a vibrant and welcoming community space. Presented by Anthony Montalto, chief design officer, executive vice president and partner at HKS; and Luis Matalon, vice president and project manager at HKS, the project seamlessly integrates innovation, tradition, and community engagement. The towers sleek curtain wall, composed of high-performance glass, allows for ample natural light while reflecting the surrounding cityscape, visually connecting the hospital to its urban environment. Montalto and Matalon will go in-depth on the vertical metal fins that provide both aesthetic interest and functional shading, reducing glare and enhancing energy efficiency. As the design transitions westward, the facade incorporates terra-cotta elements, textured metal panels, and rhythmic setbacks, thoughtfully harmonizing with the hospitals architecture and the neighborhoods historic brick structures. Cultural and Tectonic Plasticity: A precast graduate design studio at Georgia TechThe days roundtable discussion will focus on Georgia Techs graduate design studio. Panelists Alex Briseo of HKS, alongside professor Julie Ju-Youn Kim from the Georgia Tech School of Architecture, Ray Clark, executive director of precast at the Precast Concrete Institute; and Mo Wright, director of architectural systems at Gate Precast, will discuss cultural and tectonic plasticity and how the study offers an innovative response to the housing crisis in America. Focused on the Buford Highway corridor in Brookhaven, students were challenged to develop contextual facade designs that reflect the areas rich and diverse cultural influences. Working within a site masterplan, the HKS Cities and Communities team created applied modular ultra-high-performance concrete facade skins, leveraging skills gained through expert-led lectures, seminars, facility tours, and hands-on fabrication mockups. The panelists will explore how these innovative facade systems embrace plasticity in form and function, balancing modular efficiency with expressive design to create adaptable and culturally responsive architecture. First Time in Atlanta: Table Talks: Peer-to-Peer Learning SessionsTable Talks offers a unique opportunity for professionals in the Atlanta AEC community to engage in guided, in-depth conversations with their peers. This interactive 45-minute session encourages attendees to exchange insights on facade design, explore innovative strategies, and collaborate on solving complex challenges within a dynamic group setting. Designed to be both engaging and productive, the session fosters meaningful discussions while providing valuable face-to-face learning experiences. Whether sharing notes on industry trends, refining design approaches, or simply making new connections, Table Talks creates a space for collaboration and professional growth.The FORTH Hotel, Atlantas new 16-story glass tower. (Matthew Williams)An advanced shading system was implemented on a building by Olson Kundig along the Atlanta BeltLine. (Nic Lehoux)Reinventing the Old Fourth Ward: Atlantas former Industrial HubThe final sessions of the day will focus on Atlantas Old Fourth Wards newest complexes. The first panel will feature presenters Steven Rainville from Olson Kundig and Jim Irwin from New City, who will discuss the facade design of a new mixed-use building that prioritizes the occupant experience through its exterior. The panel will explore the design process and strategy behind achieving an equitable floor plate while maintaining the budget of a speculative office project.In the last session, presenters from Morris Adjmi, Brasfield Gorrie, and Uzun Case will share the facade design of the FORTH Hotel, Atlantas new 16-story glass tower. Inspired by the citys rich industrial history, exposed concrete diagrid panels were applied to the buildings facade, enhancing its visual appeal, while serving a critical structural function. Panelists will provide an in-depth analysis of the architectural contrast, highlighting how raw structural expression meets refined detailing to establish an iconic landmark in downtown Atlanta.And as always throughout the day there is plenty of time to explore the Methods + Materials Expo with 20 leading building product companies, get valuable face time with AEC industry peers, eat, drink, and connect.

The Co-founder of Neri&Hu Design and Research Office will review adaptive reuse projects for the 2025 awardsRossana Hu is a founding partner at Neri&Hu Design and Research Office and chair of the architecture department at the University of Pennsylvania Weitzman School of Design.Based in Shanghai, Neri&Hu Design and Research office is known for adaptive reuse projects including the transformation of a former Japanese Army headquarters in Shanghai into a hotel, for which the practice won the 2010 AR Emerging Awards, and the conversion of a Beijing textiles factory into the offices of a pastry brand. Their projects are contextual and varied, not defined by a single style but drawing from the global perspectives and cross-disciplinary approaches of their diverse staff. As well as architecture, the practice works on installation, furniture, product and branding projects.Alongside her design practice, Hu has been deeply committed to architectural education. As well as her position as department chair in Pennsylvania, she has taught and lectured at universities including the University of California, Berkeley, the Harvard Graduate School of Design, the Yale School of Architecture, the University of Hong Kong and Tongji University, Shanghai.Enter the AR New into Old awards today: extended deadline 21 MarchThe Waterhouse at South Bund by Neri & Hu Design and Research Office, an adaptive reuse project that transformed a former army headquarters into a hotelAs the need for sustainable alternatives to building anew becomes increasingly urgent, the AR New into Old awards celebrate the creative ways buildings are adapted and remodelled to welcome new contemporary uses. Launched in 2017, the awards recognise the imaginative appropriation of existing structures, from innovative insertions to ambitious adaptations, that offer buildings a new lease of life.For more information and to enter the AR New into Old awards, please clickhere.Extended Deadline: 21 March 20252025-03-12AR Editors Share 2025

Located to the west of the Old Granite Courthouse on Federal Street in Salem, the Old Essex County Superior Courthouse is a visual depiction of the emergence of the Victorian styles from the more Classical Greek mode. Originally built in 1861 from plans by Salem architect, Enoch Fuller, the building was distinctly Italianate in style and built of brick until a major renovation in 1889 gave the building its present Richardsonian Romanesque appearance. The building was enlarged and renovated by architects Holman K. Wheeler and W. Wheelwright Northend which includes: changes to the roof line, creation of dormers, alterations to the window surrounds to create Romanesque arches and more. A three-story projecting pavilion, whose first floor is finished with rusticated brownstone, contains a recessed entry with a large semicircular arch supported on three columns with carved capitals at each end. The central pavilion resolves into a gable with corner pilasters with carved finials centering a blind arch containing the full date span of the complex, 1861-1891 in a field of square rusticated brownstone blocks. The courthouse remained in use until the J Michael Ruane Judicial Center at the end of the block was completed in 2012. The Old Granite Courthouse and adjacent Old Superior Courthouse were both vacated and have been essentially mothballed ever-since under the ownership of the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance as surplus. The fate of the two buildings remains undetermined.

All images courtesy of Ins Quezada and Ins Llasera, shared with permissionIn KAUANI, Indigenous Mexican Flora Flourishes in Glowing LanternsMarch 12, 2025CraftDesignKate MothesIn Nahuatl, an Aztec language indigenous to Mesoamerica still spoken by more than a million people throughout Mexico, kauani means to flourish. Designers Ins Quezada and Ins Llasera, co-founders of Tornasol Studio, conceived of a series of luminaires inspired by native flora in celebration of the regions rich botanic diversity.The ongoing series, KAUANI, emulates details of endemic species, drawing on textures found on cacti, geometric agaves, and the rhythmic patterns of corn. The duo also find inspiration in the unique seeds of mamey and guanabana fruits or the pigmentation of cacao and chili peppers.Cacti symbolize resilience, Quezada and Llasera say in a statement, sharing how the plants adaptations to extreme environments mean they can endure long droughts and high temperatures. The pair adds:For instance, their spines not only serve as a defense mechanism but also condense water and create a protective layer. Their pale pigmentation, resulting from waxes that insulate their tissues and their water-retention capabilities grant them unique volumetric forms. Unlike most plants, cacti perform photosynthesis at night, closing their stomata during the day to conserve water and nutrients. It is in darkness that they truly breathe.Merging natural forms of fruit and botanicals with textiles, the lanterns incorporate knitted skins with delicate spikes, ruffles, or tentacles that tread the line between representation and abstraction. Melon-like orbs and oblong shapes reminiscent of seed pods are suspended from the ceiling or propped up on surfaces with spindly feet.If youre in Mexico City, you can see KAUANI in Noches rides through May 15 at AGO Projects. Explore more on the designers website, and follow updates on Instagram.Next article

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The new Ford F-150 truck goes through the assembly line at the Ford Dearborn Plant on April 11, 2024 ... [+] in Dearborn, Michigan. (Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images)Getty ImagesA January report by Dave Cantin Group, an advisor to auto dealers, said demand for large pickups and SUVs is reaching a peak.One question is, if true, what does that portend for the auto industry?Some automakers -- including General Motors Co., Ford Motor Co., and Stellantis have mostly given up on producing cars to concentrate on large pickups and SUVs.Profits from those vehicles were supposed to finance investments in electric vehicles. Deliveries of large pickups, in particular, are very profitable. Sales of the Ford F-Series, combined deliveries of F-150 and Super Duty trucks (F-250 and above), are at the top of U.S. sales.The Dave Cantin Group report raises questions about that strategy.The industry has moved to more expensive vehicles in general, Brian Gordon, president of Dave Cantin Group, said in an interview.Some factors, such as low interest rates (until recent years), have helped. That made large trucks relatively affordable from a monthly payment perspective, Gordon said.In the future, there are questions about how long the trends can last, according to Dave Cantin Group.Manufacturers with broader choices are going to get the attention of consumers, Gordon said. The root cause is affordability.It appeared the Federal Reserve was ready to lower interest rates. That momentum has halted amid continuing high inflation.Also to be considered is the Trump administrations trade war against Canada and Mexico. Tariffs are levied on companies that import goods.Trump has levied 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican products, while pausing the tariffs at times.The final outcome is yet to be determined. Regardless, the tariffs have the potential to raise vehicle prices, as well as monthly payments for consumers, because auto industry supply chains have vehicles and components crossing borders multiple times.Americans still love their trucks, Gordon said. Ford is going to sell F-150s.A Ford-150 has a starting price of $38,810 while more expensive versions can reach $79,000.The question, he said, is whether buyers start seeking out alternatives.The big risk is you start to lose customers, Gordon said.Dave Cantin Group refers to the trend as peak truck.Peak truck is a symbol of whats going on in the industry, Gordon said. We dont believe this is a short-term thing. This is something thats going to persist.Gordon added: None of this is good for affordability. Americans will look to how to drive down that monthly payment.