MagSafe is so nifty that it sometimes feels like magic. Luckily, there are no tricks up its sleeve, just some good magnetic attraction. At ZDNET, I test dozens of MagSafe accessories, from battery packs to wallets, phone cases, tripods, and more. Plus, plenty of other experts have reviewed even more niche MagSafe gear, like SSDs and voice recorders.  As a tech editor, I can test out tons of super handy gadgets and gizmos for my phone that I otherwise would never bother checking out on my own accord, and I love a functional (and fun) tech accessory. And as a mobile accessory expert, there are genuinely a few that I reach for nearly every day that stand out from the mountains of MagSafe gear I've tried. My Torras MiniMag battery pack is slim enough for even my tiniest bag, and my bedside table will never be empty of my Anker MagGo 3-in-1 charger. I'd recommend these to anyone looking to level up their phone's functionality, or who's curious to jump into the world of MagSafe for the first time. Most picks are under $100 and won't break the bank. ESR Aura MagSafe Wallet and Stand Kayla Solino/ZDNET This wallet quickly shot to the top of my rotation and became a favorite in my wallet collection, so much so that it is ZDNET's pick for best MagSafe wallet. While this wallet is very similar to others you can buy, its value is insane. You get a quality vegan leather wallet, strong magnetic hold, five card slots -- including a dedicated ID pocket, notches for easy card access, and five colors to pick from -- all for under $30. When I tested this wallet, I was most impressed with how functional the dedicated ID slot is and how purposeful every element is. Each feature, like the notches allowing easy card access, was thoughtfully designed, implemented, and truly upgraded the accessory experience. Plus, ESR offers some of the most fun colors I have seen in a long time, including pastel pink and purple (and some universal neutrals, if that's your preference). ESR customers on Amazon said they were pleased the Aura wallet came in vibrant colors, and liked the strong magnet, dedicated ID slot, and ample storage it provides. Some customers said that the wallet offers excellent value for the price, and it has a five-star rating on ESR's website. Show more View now at Amazon Torras Slim MiniMag Wireless Charger Kayla Solino/ZDNET This Torras MiniMag Battery Pack is the thinnest wireless charger I've tested, and I've had the chance to review a lot. It has no kickstand or added features, but its 5,000mAh capacity is comparable to other packs I've tested. If you're buying a battery pack for the first time, I recommend this one over anything else. Thanks to its slim profile, you'll be able to use it in more situations than not, and if you spend around $50 on a battery anyway, it might as well be multifunctional. The pack provides 18W USB-C charging or 7.5W wireless charging, too.The MiniMag is a practical option that ensures you always have a battery pack. I was delighted with its performance, especially for its thin design. Despite the pack's smaller stature, it does not compromise on charging or speed, and I love that the device also comes in pink. You can be assured that I love this battery pack because I bought both colors. Torras users on Amazon said that they liked the quick charging speed and lightweight profile. and the slim design of the Torras MiniMag battery pack. However, some said the battery gets too hot. Keep in mind that most battery packs do get some warming with use.  Show more View now at Amazon Moft MagSafe Snap Phone Tripod Stand Kayla Solino/ZDNET The Moft MagSafe tripod and stand combine a sophisticated, sleek design with maximum functionality. I love the affordable yet luxurious look the Moft stand offers. I also find it convenient to take impromptu photos, work from my desk, and watch my favorite shows. You can also use this stand as a selfie-stick-like grip or bump it into a larger tripod (pictured), which is perfect for summer travels. The stand is a content creator's dream, but it works so well for the everyday tech consumer (that's me, don't be fooled). It's been a great accessory for my walking desk and for following recipes in the kitchen. Newer versions of this stand from Moft also include a spot for up to two cards, so if you need card storage and a stand function, this accessory is for you.  Moft customers on Amazon said they liked the stand's fun colors, firm hold, and practical design. Some customers experienced slight wear issues due to the Vegan leather construction, but like most products, you will see some wear with daily use. Show more View now at Amazon Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Foldable Charging Station Kayla Solino/ZDNET Anker's MagGo 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station for iPhone is still a wireless charging dream months after my initial purchase, and it's also ZDNET's pick for best wireless charger. This MagSafe charger features 15W charging, offers a stand component for my iPhone, charges all my Apple devices simultaneously, and folds up easily for quick transport and storage. The charger also comes with a wall adapter, which isn't always guaranteed. I first purchased this Anker charger after ZDNET's Sabrina Ortiz tested it last year. I was looking for a safe and functional 3-in-1 charger to reduce the number of cords I needed to pack while traveling. This device is the solution. Unveiled at CES 2023, this 3-in-1 is worth your money if you own an Apple Watch and a pair of AirPods and want a great charger at home and on the go. I also enjoy Anker's UFO version of this charger, but if you're only going to purchase one 3-in-1 charging setup, it should be this one. A stand configuration is preferable for daily nightstand use, and you don't need to buy both setups. Verified Amazon customers gave this Anker charger 4.6 out of 5 stars. They liked the compactness and convenience of the design, and the easy-to-use setup, foldability, and magnetic strength. However, some customers said the simultaneous charging wasn't consistent. Author's Note: The Anker MagGo 3-1 charger in white is on sale for $82 (save $27) at Amazon upon the latest publication.  Show more View now at Amazon Other MagSafe products we think you'd like What is the best MagSafe accessory? Our favorite MagSafe accessories according to style, function, added features like kickstands, and more. Maybe you're looking for a battery pack to boost your phone or a handy place to store your metro card? We've got you covered with top-tested accessory picks from Torras, Moft, and more.MagSafe accessoryPrice*TypeESR Aura MagSafe Wallet and Stand $25MagSafe wallet for card and cash storage.Torras Slim MiniMag Battery Pack$60Slim and portable MagSafe battery pack.Moft MagSafe Snap Phone Tripod Stand $40Multifunctional, magnetic phone stand.Anker MagGo 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station $1103-in-1 MagSafe Wireless charging dock.*MSRP at time of publication Show more Why should you trust me? I test tech for a living, whether the gadgets are mobile accessories, MagSafe gear, or power banks. I have strong opinions on what makes a tech product worth your money, because I know that budgets are tight and there's no greater disappointment than wasting a paycheck on a middling device. I do my research, checking competing websites for the newest products, reading Reddit threads and Amazon reviews, speaking with researchers and analysts about what makes a particular device good or bad, and, when in doubt, testing everything out for myself. For this story, each primary pick is a product I've had the opportunity to test and still truly use in my everyday life. If I included additional products of interest, I consulted and cited ZDNET's experts who have used them. I considered price, quality, and use cases for poolside gadgets, among other things, to curate this list. While there is plenty of different tech I could have recommended to you, these are the MagSafe accessories that I think are the very best. Show more Which phones are MagSafe compatible? Most of the iPhone 12 through the iPhone 16 models are MagSafe compatible. Unfortunately, the iPhone 12 and 13 Mini models don't feature MagSafe and, therefore, cannot be used with MagSafe accessories. The latest iPhone 16e isn't compatible, either. However, MagSafe rings that are sold separately can convert non-MagSafe cases into MagSafe-compatible cases.  Show more How do I know my iPhone is MagSafe compatible? The iPhone 12 through iPhone 16 models (minus the Mini and a few select models, like the 16e) feature MagSafe technology. If you're not sure what type of iPhone you have, go to Settings > General > About, and you'll see what model your phone is.  Show more Do I need a specific case to use MagSafe accessories? Ideally, you should equip your phone with a MagSafe phone case, which also helps to protect your phone and strengthen the magnetic connection if you add MagSafe accessories. You can find MagSafe phone cases at Apple or other retailers, such as Amazon and Best Buy. Technically, you can use many MagSafe accessories without a case on select devices, but the grip is less likely to be secure.  Show more What does RFID mean? Some MagSafe accessories, like wallets, often advertise RFID protection. According to the Department of Homeland Security, RFID refers to radio frequency identification. This technology uses radio waves to identify people or objects. There are devices that can read information contained in a wireless device or "tag" from a distance without making any physical contact or requiring a line of sight -- for example, the chips in credit or debit cards. Wallets that feature RFID-blocking technology prevent these devices from accessing information stored in protected chips, which can help to stop your bank information from being compromised.  Show more Featured reviews

The Multifunctional Art Center of Lhozhag County Middle School / Shenzhen Huahui DesignSave this picture!© Right Angle ImageVisual Arts Center•Shannan, China Architects: Shenzhen Huahui Design Area Area of this architecture project Area:  6009 m² Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2024 Photographs Photographs:Right Angle Image Lead Architects: XIAO Cheng More SpecsLess Specs Save this picture! Text description provided by the architects. The site of our multifunctional art center project is located within Lhozhag Middle School, the county's junior high campus. Funded and built by COFCO Group, the project aims to create a composite art education space that serves as a cross-cultural exchange venue for school staff and students, local residents, international tourists, and artists visiting Tibet.Save this picture!Save this picture!The Weaving and Reconstruction of the Landscape. The site of Lhozhag County Middle School is situated with the mountains to the south and a road to the north. Beyond the road lies a martyrs' memorial square, and further north are National Highway 219 and the Lhozhag Gorge. The campus has undergone construction in different periods, resulting in a fragmented layout dominated by dispersed linear buildings. This has prevented the formation of a cohesive spatial order. Therefore, one of our key objectives is to take this opportunity to reorganize and construct a more organic relationship between the elements of the site. Additionally, the site has a noticeable elevation difference, which, if utilized properly, offers the potential to create more dynamic and engaging spaces.Save this picture!Save this picture!Given the limited area of the site, the design adopts an "embedded" strategy. The first step involves demolishing the existing staff activity room directly facing the school entrance and incorporating it into the new building volume. This move creates a continuous central axis through the campus. The new building is arranged in a compact L-shaped mass at the southern end of this axis, forming a spatial sequence that connects the main entrance of the campus, the front yard, and the small plaza at the entrance to the multifunctional art center. When viewed on a larger scale, the multifunctional center to the south, facing the mountains, and the memorial square to the north, facing the water, create an urban spatial axis within the limited depth of the southern part of Lhozhag County.Save this picture!Save this picture!Massing Configuration and Spatial Morphology. Situated at the northern foothills of a south-facing mountain slope, the project site is constrained by limited space towards the south, making optimal natural daylighting from this direction difficult to achieve. In response, the design incorporates various forms of skylights to maximize solar utilization. The main structure of the Multi-Functional Center is composed of two primary volumes—one linear and one cubic. The elongated volume is organized in a "sandwich-like" spatial configuration, consisting of two solid masses and a narrow central atrium. Flanking the double-height skylit atrium—serving as a hub for circulation, exhibitions, and gatherings—are small-scale spaces housing art classrooms and studios. The square volume contains a 700-seat auditorium, with a skylit side hall designed along its lateral facade.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!These two volumes are arranged in a near-perpendicular relationship, a deliberate response to both the site's spatial axis and the surrounding buildings. Considering the site's topography, a subtle elevation difference is established between the two forms. The roof of the auditorium becomes a highly accessible outdoor activity platform. On this rooftop, several small, south-facing structures with windows are designed to offer engaging and playful spaces for students' extracurricular activities. Between the main building's southern edge and the northward-sloping mountain base lies a narrow wedge-shaped courtyard, functioning as a "miniature gorge" between architecture and terrain—an extension of both outdoor exhibition areas and indoor activity spaces.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Low-Tech Construction and Contextual Integration. Our intention was to express the project's sense of place through a distilled contemporary architectural language—one that remains restrained and respectful in its articulation. The surrounding context—both its unrefined natural landscape and the neighboring built forms—exudes a raw, elemental force that speaks to the site's primal character. Each day, the children's recitations echo through the arms of the mountains, mingling with the distant sound of the Lhozhag Valley stream. I envisioned the new building as a stone emerging from the mountain itself—something that sparks curiosity while also evoking a quiet familiarity. It is curious in the way it appears as a white "magic box" filled with intriguing spatial experiences; yet familiar in its subtle dialogue with the surrounding built environment, sharing a common architectural language. This "stone" is firmly grounded in the land—solid, steady, and reassuring.Save this picture!Save this picture!At the main entrance façade, we designed what could be described as a "Mondrian frame" for Lhozhag. Through a composition of solids and voids, light and reflection, the façade glass is broken down into mirrored panels of varying sizes and hues. These reflections—of the sky, the snow-capped peaks, the building, and the children themselves—create a sense of "familiar strangeness", subtly provoking curiosity and encouraging exploration in their daily routines.Construction methods employ conventional, locally executable techniques, prioritizing recyclable regional materials. Skylight configurations enhance natural daylighting and thermal mass performance, significantly reducing heating energy use in winter.Save this picture!Save this picture!The Canyon of Light. The "Light Canyon Atrium" serves as the spiritual and spatial core of the entire building. It is both an abstract interpretation of Lhozhag's dramatic natural terrain and a contemporary reimagining of the essential qualities of traditional Tibetan architecture. (Diagram: Spatial Archetype) Inspired by the idea that "sunlight breathes life into the canyon, where daily routines unfold", the design celebrates this raw, vibrant energy through spatial scale, light quality, and chromatic composition.Save this picture!Save this picture!Upon entering from the foyer, one ascends a multipurpose stepped platform to the second floor and then turns—only to be met with a breathtaking atrium measuring 60 meters in length, 7 meters in width, and 14 meters in height. This vertical void captures abundant daylight from above, extending across the building to link diverse functional zones. It gathers the distant landscape into its frame, forging a dialogue between interior and exterior, architecture and nature. The experience is ever-changing—one may pass through, pause, encounter, gaze into or out of it—each movement revealing new spatial surprises. Witnessing children in colorful attire moving through the longitudinally unfolding space, where the indoor sky seamlessly merges with the real one beyond, and distant mountains appear to embrace the end of the axis, the envisioned scenarios have materialized as intended.Save this picture!Save this picture!Here, light is "combed" through a kaleidoscopic filter—a gesture that feels uniquely appropriate to Tibet's vivid natural palette. White walls act as canvases for sunlight's seasonal performances, while solid-colored interior corridors peek through varying-sized apertures, adding layers of visual liveliness. Ultimately, the "Canyon of Light" became the guiding concept of the entire project. Through a dialogue between architecture and environment, and a fusion of tradition and modernity, the project creates a space that is both functional and poetic—an iconic centerpiece for Lhozhag County Middle School and a cultural threshold for exchange between campus and community. Yet above all, we hope the true owners of the space are the students themselves. On holidays, when children in traditional Tibetan dress gather here to play and laugh, the scene feels so naturally harmonious that it evokes a beautiful illusion: as if this building has always been here， growing with the children, quietly witnessing the passage of time.Save this picture!The "Roots" and "Wings" of Culture. The 2017 Pritzker Prize-winning Spanish firm RCR Arquitectes articulated a profound view on locality: "We believe that harmony with nature means that architecture must deeply understand its surrounding environment. While we embrace globalization, we hope our architecture remains firmly rooted in its place. We often say that architecture needs both 'roots' and 'wings.' The three of us each have our own origin, something intrinsic that resides within us. Even as we move from one place to another, this origin remains unchanged—it is the product of a place, a climate, and a culture. The world is becoming increasingly interconnected, but we believe that understanding and respecting these origins is essential. They enrich the shared creative force that expresses who we are, and that is deeply important."Save this picture!In Lhozhag, the younger generation navigates a cultural tug-of-war: between their deep Tibetan heritage and the currents of modernity. Like the mirrored facades that reflect distant snow-capped mountains, village rooftops, ancient monasteries, and colorful prayer flags by day—with the children's own figures merging into these scenes—the architecture becomes a metaphor for cultural identity. "Who are you?" "Where do your roots lie?" When they see themselves in these reflections, they encounter both their homeland and the coexistence of their culture with the wider world. Through architectural language, the project aims to show that they need not choose between tradition and modernity but can balance both—rooted in their cultural soil while courageously reaching outward. May the light of the canyon forever illuminate the path in these children's hearts.Save this picture! Project gallerySee allShow less Project locationAddress:Shannan, ChinaLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this office MaterialsGlassConcreteMaterials and TagsGlass

The Tamboré Club / DMDV arquitetosSave this picture!© Nelson Kon e Alberto RicciWellbeing•Jundiaí, Brazil Architects: DMDV arquitetos Area Area of this architecture project Area:  988 m² Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2024 Lead Architect: Thiffani Siani More SpecsLess Specs Save this picture! Text description provided by the architects. The Tamboré Club project presents an architecture defined by the contrast between solid stone-clad volumes, which house the club’s main programs, and transparent areas that foster visual and physical integration with the surrounding natural landscape. Organized into four distinct blocks, the complex is accessed via a metal pergola that extends over a reflecting pool, surrounded by carefully curated landscaping that creates a welcoming and symbolic entrance.Save this picture!The building opens inward toward the lot, facing a permanent preservation area—an architectural gesture that strengthens its connection to the natural environment and offers a sense of discovery as one enters the site. A central volume, distinguished by its elevated metal roof, houses the main event hall, oriented toward the outdoor pool. The gym faces the same direction, while the heated indoor pool stretches along the lateral edge of the site, forming a kind of internal plaza enveloped by native vegetation.Save this picture!The architectural language strikes a balance between geometries: the organic design of the outdoor pool contrasts with the rectilinear volumes of the building, while maintaining a dialogue with the natural surroundings. An outdoor patio between the event hall and the gym serves as an open-air cinema, where the building's end wall functions as the projection screen.Save this picture!The interior design emphasizes a refined rusticity, featuring natural materials such as stone, exposed concrete, and wood to create spaces that evoke comfort, warmth, and a strong connection to nature.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!In the highest part of the terrain, two barbecue areas have been positioned to take full advantage of the complex’s elevated views. Complementing the sports facilities are a playground, tennis courts, a multi-sports court, and beach tennis courts, all integrated into a multifunctional landscape.Save this picture! Project gallerySee allShow less Project locationAddress:Jundiaí, BrazilLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this office MaterialsSteelStoneMaterials and TagsPublished on May 22, 2025Cite: "The Tamboré Club / DMDV arquitetos" [Clube Tamboré Jundiaí / DMDV arquitetos] 22 May 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1029930/the-tambore-club-dmdv-arquitetos&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save世界上最受欢迎的建筑网站现已推出你的母语版本!想浏览ArchDaily中国吗?是否 You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

In an era dominated by artificial intelligence and smartphones, one of the most overlooked engines of economic growth sits quietly at the heart of every neighborhood: the public library.  Gone are the days when libraries were sanctuaries reserved for only reading and research. Today, they are being reimagined as dynamic hubs for workforce development, creative sector support, and cultural exchange. Across the country, these reservoirs of knowledge are evolving into digital and physical beacons of community resilience.  Local access, global reach: A case study in artist empowerment  In Huntsville, where I serve as the city’s first music officer, we’ve partnered with our public library system to develop a multifunctional creative hub—with music at its core. A primary pillar of our collaboration is Blast Music, a digital streaming platform designed to showcase local talent. It’s a model other cities can and should replicate.  Through the Blast program, artists are paid, promoted, and added to a curated library collection—offering not only exposure, but bona fide industry credentials. Over 100 local artists are currently featured on the platform, and we will welcome up to 50 additional artists into the program annually.  The ripple effect of Blast is real. The free service empowers local listeners to discover homegrown talent while giving musicians tools to grow their fan base and attract industry attention. Perhaps most importantly, Blast provides emerging artists with resume-worthy recognition—essential for building sustainable careers in a tough industry.  But Blast isn’t just about digital reach—it’s embedded in Huntsville’s cultural DNA. From artist showcases like the Ladies of Blast event at the Orion Amphitheater, to community events like Hear to Be Seen (a portrait exhibition of Blast musicians), to stages designated exclusively for Blast artist performances at Camp to Amp, PorchFest, and more, Blast is bringing music into public spaces and cultivating civic pride. That’s the kind of community infrastructure that libraries are uniquely equipped to deliver.  There’s no such thing as too much visibility, and even artists with international acclaim see value in the platform. Huntsville native Kim Tibbs, a vocalist, songwriter, Alabama Music Hall of Fame honoree and UK chart-topper, submitted her album The Science of Completion Volume I to Blast—not only for more exposure, but to mentor and support the next generation of artists in her hometown.   Libraries as talent incubators  Huntsville is part of a broader national trend. In cities like Chicago, Nashville, and Austin, libraries are integrating creative labs, media production studios, and music education into their core services—functioning as public-sector incubators for the creative economy.  As technology continues to reshape traditional jobs, libraries are well-positioned to bridge skill gaps and fuel the rise of creative economies, including the vital but often overlooked non-performance roles in the music industry.  Huntsville is doubling down on this approach. We’re investing millions into programs that bring interactive music technology workshops to teens at the local library—focusing on hands-on training in production, recording, and audio engineering. With professional equipment, studio spaces, and expert instruction, we’re preparing the next generation for careers both onstage and behind the scenes.  Local industry is stepping up too. Hear Technologies, a global leader in sound and AV production, has been designing cutting-edge audio devices for years. They’re now part of a dynamic team collaborating with city leaders to help develop the library’s music maker space, nurture new talent and accelerate our region’s creative growth.  This matters now, more than ever  Libraries have always been entry points for education, employment, and exploration. But today, they’re more than just information access points—they are gateways to opportunity and launchpads for industries that define the future. By utilizing public space and collaborating with local talent, libraries can become platforms for economic mobility and cultural innovation. This investment isn’t a feel-good gesture. It’s a smart, strategic move for any city building a future that works—for everyone.  The playlist is simple: Invest in creative ecosystems, embed them in trusted community institutions like public libraries, and treat music as critical infrastructure.   Matt Mandrella is music officer for the City of Huntsville, Alabama. 

"We use a lot of what I call ‘muddy colors,’ ” Alison Giese says of her namesake design firm’s signature palette. To establish a tailored but cozy interior scheme for a young family’s newly constructed ranch-style residence in San Antonio, Giese once more relied on “color that’s not colorful.” The way she sees it, “If it’s blues and pinks and greens that have a lot of brown in them, they become more of a neutral.” FAST FACTSAlison Giese, of Designer: Alison Giese InteriorsLocation:The Space: Four bedroom, three-and-a-half bathroom houseWe just lavished it with color. If it’s fun and feels collected, then let’s go for it. GREAT ROOMA multi-functional space that lives large—and feels cozy. Yanglin CaiSectional: Vanguard, in Kravet fabric. Armchairs: Lee Industries, in Lake August fabric. Lounge chair: Design Within Reach. Rug: Dash & Albert by Annie Selke.The four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom house is laid out in a “boomerang shape,” Giese says, and is poised to be the family’s “legacy home,” a place to be enjoyed by many generations. Giese, working with Smithdish Architecture, filled the 5,000-square-foot interior with natural materials, botanical patterns, and personal touches.In the great room, eight-foot-long pendants from The Urban Electric Co. bring the vaulted ceiling down to “human height,” Giese says.LIBRARYDeep teal paint fuels the moody setting.Yanglin Cai Paint: Salamander, Benjamin Moore. Lamp: Currey & Company. Sconce: Visual Comfort & Co. Chair: clients’ own.In place of a home office, the family requested a library complete with a Putnam rolling ladder.KITCHENThe fresh cookspace isn't all it seems. Yanglin CaiPendants: The Urban Electric Co. Counter stools (with backs): Summer Studio. Cabinetry paint: Natural Choice, Sherwin-WilliamsThe most unassuming room is the open-concept kitchen with “a melody of colors and finishes,” Giese says. “At first glance, it may appear to be a white kitchen, but it is anything but! We have three paint colors and one stain in the cabinetry mix. We just kept all the color on the bottom half of the sight line.”Yanglin CaiThe 12-foot-long island boasts a custom brass footrail reminiscent of a restaurant bar.BREAKFAST NOOKCafé curtains level up the coziness.Yanglin CaiPendant: RTO Lighting. Banquette fabrics: Schumacher (back) and Nassimi (vinyl seat). Banquette paint: Mulberry Silk by Sherwin-Williams. Drapery fabric: Anna FrenchThe heirloom table on casters rolls out so people can easily slip in and out of the custom banquette. The family's livestock brand, E7, is engraved on the base of the banquette.LIVING ROOMA cozy hangout in a separate house on the grounds.Yanglin CaiPaint: Alabaster, Sherwin-Williams (wall); Mizzle, Farrow & Ball (trim). Shade: Custom, in Namay Samay fabric. Rug: Serena & Lily.The homeowners filled what they call “the garden cottage” with secondhand finds.GUEST BEDROOMA private retreat that boasts all the charm of a boutique inn.Yanglin CaiYanglin CaiInside the garden cottage, visitors can unwind in a cheery oasis wrapped in a meadow-inspired Morris & Co. wallpaper. An antique chair found at an estate sale and a floating desk turn a niche into a cozy workstation. Paint: Sudbury Yellow, Farrow & Ball. Bed: Serena & Lily. Table: vintage, Uncommon Objects. Rug: Pottery Barn. Art: clients’ own. Quilt: GreenRow.PRIMARY BEDROOMEarthy shades provide a serene place to unwind.Yanglin CaiBed: Woodbridge Furniture, in Schumacher fabric. Lamp: clients’ own. Chaise longue: Lee Industries, in Jasper Textiles fabric.To evoke the feel of a luxe hotel, Giese relied on a soothing palette with subtle pops of print. “We chose warm colors and a balance of masculine and feminine patterns,” she adds.DAUGHTER'S ROOMThe cottagecore style is playful yet elevated.Yanglin CaiYanglin CaiWhile the effect is subtle but stunning, bold colors shine in pockets of the house. In Giese’s favorite space, the daughter’s room, a floral Liberty of London wallpaper was the jumping-off point to cottagecore style. “We went all in on layering pattern and color,” Giese says, including covering the custom millwork in Dix Blue paint by Farrow & Ball. Beds: Bramble. Quilts: Etsy. Sheets and table lamp: Pottery Barn Kids. Carpet: Prestige Mills.PRIMARY BATHROOMThe epitome of quiet luxury. Yanglin CaiMirrors: RH. Sconces: Arel Lighting. Faucets: Rohl. Hardware: Classic Brass. Rug: Vintage.Textural cement tiles from Arto offer a nonslip surface, while an Arrabescato Corchia marble countertop adds a sleek touch and stunning focal point.LAUNDRYA charming place to check-off daily to-dos. Yanglin CaiPaint: Blustery Sky, Sherwin-Williams. Faucet: Moen. Roman shade: Custom, in Virginia Kraft Textiles fabric.“This quartzite is one of the prettiest I’ve seen,” Giese says of the Brilliant Grey stone countertops in the ultra-functional laundry room. MUDROOMWhere there's a place for everything.Yanglin CaiFlooring: Limestone, Material Bespoke Stone + Tile. Mirror: Schwung. Hooks: Clients’ own.In this corridor-style space, custom cubbies were designed to fit around the vintage chest. COAT VESTIBULEWarm wood envelopes the multifunctional space. Yanglin CaiBench fabric: Schumacher. Pillow and throw: Thompson + Hanson. Hooks: Etsy. Sconce: Huey Lightshop.This stow-away zone doubles as a privacy buffer between the foyer and adjoining powder room.FOYERIt's all in the textures.Yanglin CaiTable: Arhaus. Mirror: Arteriors. Lamp: Currey & Company. Rug: Passerine. Vessels: African gourd baskets, Alison Giese InteriorsA floor-to-ceiling limestone wall, which doubles as the backside of a fireplace, brings texture and warmth to the entry.EXTERIOR The grounds are vast.Yanglin CaiDespite its location just minutes from the airport, the property feels tucked away into the countryside, thanks in large part to the surrounding landscape, where the owners combined their several-acre property with an adjacent lot. With a one-bedroom guest cottage, greenhouse, barn, and “zen zone” with a cold plunge pool on the grounds, the home is both a family estate and an escape from the stresses of life outside its doors.About the DesignerAlison Giese founded the San Antonio–based design firm Alison Giese Interiors under the belief that "every room should have character and interest over perfection." Inspired by her travels and experiences, Giese loves to blend her clients’ existing treasures with carefully selected pieces to create harmony between old and new. AGI takes on projects from coast to coast, working closely with clients to develop interiors that reflect their story. SHOP THE SPACEWebster Bed$2,698 at Serena and LilyMeadow Sweet Wallpaper$312 at wmorrisandco.comNord Counter Stool$1,028 at summerstudiodesign.comSalamander Paint$6 at Benjamin Moore

Got a project that’s too bold to build? Submit your conceptual works, images and ideas for global recognition and print publication in the 2025 Vision Awards! The Main Entry deadline of June 6th is fast approach — submit your work today. To match or not to match? This dilemma has always been a burden for architects when designing extensions for listed buildings. Perhaps one of the most famous examples of a clashing extension and a listed building was Daniel Libeskind’s design for the Military History Museum in Dresden. Both praised and criticized by many, the modern extension aimed at spatially expressing Germany’s violent history. The architecture was characterized as “insensitive and inconsiderate” as well as “brave and bonkers.” Regardless of whether this specific architectural project was “the right move or not,” it poses a somewhat eternal architectural question: how should architects approach listed buildings, which oftentimes carry an immense amount of history and emotional resonance? The following seven projects reveal several tactics of dealing with delicate pieces of cultural heritage, while adding a new building extension to the mix. Aalt Stadhaus Differdange By witry & witry architecture urbanisme, Differdange, Luxembourg The existing building dates back from 1847, situated in between Church Notre-Dame-des Douleurs (which was torn down) and the local town hall. The project aim was to create a new urban landmark for Differdange. Long filigree columns were used along the west façade to create an interplay between old and new architectural elements that create a harmonic ensemble. In parallel, curated material choices such as tiles and wooden floors merge the two interiors crafting a coherent atmosphere. Void Practice Rooms By John McAslan + Partners,  London, United Kingdom Surrounded by three listed buildings, the Void acts as an extension for the Royal Academy of Music (RAM), hosting a general music practice room, an opera practice room and a new multifunctional RAM space. Preserving the overall aesthetic of the site, the Void Building’s structure and materiality draws from its historic context and internal functions. Specifically, the characteristic red brick and Baroque stone trimmings serve as an inspiration to the modern albeit contextually harmonious extension. Felix-Nussbaum-Haus Extension By Studio Libeskind, Osnabrück, Germany The Felix Nussbaum Haus was originally designed by Daniel Libeskind and was completed in 1998. The new extension, also designed by Libeskind in May 2011, provides an entrance hall to the museum, a new shop and a learning center. The design completely contradicts the existing structure and is comprised of a glass bridge that acts as a gateway. Through the specific colors and materials, the extension “blends” with both museums. The grey plaster provides a stark contrast to the Kunstgeschichtliche Museum and the Akzisehaus, while anthracite colored frames accentuate the series of openings. Additionally, the façade acts as a screen that carefully frames the geometries of the Museum openings, resulting in a grid that guides the overall composition. Marecollege By 24H-architecture, Leiden, The Netherlands Inspired by the school’s philosophical discourse, the concept for the new building extensions was derived from the anthroposophical philosophy, which claims that scientific theory does not describe reality, but the relations which belong to reality. The new building aimed at spatially recreating this theory through lemniscates. This intricate geometry becomes the heart of the design, accommodating many social spaces, auditoriums and a cafeteria. The new façade is as solid as its neighbor, made however out of grey masonry walls. Extension to the Historisches Museum By :mlzd, Bern, Switzerland The extension to the Historical Museum Bern, built by André Lambert in 1894, is composed by two distinct elements: a 1000m2 temporary exhibition hall located beneath a new civic square and a monolithic six story block along the southern side of the site that houses the Bern city archives, offices and a library. Architecturally, the structure interchanges between solid and transparent façades. Specifically, towards the square the building acts as a glazed modernist curtain wall that reveals all the activities that occur in its interior, while the south façade is made of solid, cast concrete punctured by small random openings. Rehabilitation and Extension of the Colani-UFO with shaft hall By SSP AG, Lünen, Germany In the technology centre of Lünen, over a former coal mine factory, hovers a  unique type of “UFO” building. Designed in 1985 by Luigi Colani the “UFO” has become a well-known landmark to the area, thus instigating a rejuvenation approach by the Academy of Applied Science center. The primary idea was to integrate the “UFO,” the shaft and the underlying building with a new extension, turning them into a multifunctional complex able to cater for a wide variety of venues. The design preserved that industrial charm of existing buildings, while maintaining a rather subtle form in comparison to the rest of the heterogenous buildings on site. Particularly the dark monolithic façade becomes a “quiet pause” in a somewhat complex and stimulating urban context. Museum De Fundatie By Bierman Henket architecten,  Zwolle, Netherlands Museum De Fundatie in Zwolle is situated on the border between the mediaeval city center and the open 19th century parkland and its canals. The new extension is a spectacular circular volume placed in the roof of the former Palace of Justice. The structure aesthetically contrasts the medieval façade of Blijmarkt, while however complimenting functionally the museum, acting as a new entrance. The extension – also called the Art Cloud – follows the substructure’s logic by being symmetrical in two directions, thus establishing a new identity for the complex’s urban presence. Its façade is clad with 55,000 three-dimensional ceramic elements, forming a “shimmering” surface that breaks down the original building’s solidity. Got a project that’s too bold to build? Submit your conceptual works, images and ideas for global recognition and print publication in the 2025 Vision Awards! The Main Entry deadline of June 6th is fast approach — submit your work today. Featured Image: Extension to the Historisches Museum by :mlzd, Bern, Switzerland The post Bold Meets Old: 7 Architectural Extensions that Clash with History appeared first on Journal.

Delayed live events venue set to open in 2029 The 20,000-seat arena will be set in a landscaped public realm designed by German practice Latz+Partner 1/4 show caption Populous has unveiled new images of its planned 20,000-seat Munich Arena in southern Germany. The multifunctional venue in Freising, close to Munich International Airport, was announced in 2022 but is yet to start construction. Originally due to complete in 2026, it is now expected to open in 2029 following the announcement of a partnership between the arena and US live entertainment giant Live Nation. Described by the architect as a “globally iconic venue”, it will host live events with a 270-degrees horseshoe shaped seating bowl. It is understood to have a construction value of at least €400m (£337m), including a proposed hotel on the site. The new pictures reveal minor tweaks to the building’s facade and an updated landscape strategy, which has been designed by German landscape architect Latz+Partner. The arena’s design features a ring of diamond-shaped trusses on its exterior, inspired by the diamond shapes on Bavaria’s state flag. It is Populous’ only current project in Germany, where it has an office in Munich, one of seven the practice has opened in Europe.

YouTuber Levi Kelly, known for his work on compact living spaces, has unveiled what he calls the world’s smallest mobile tiny house. This micro-camper is designed for extreme downsizing yet remains impressively functional, fitting a bed, toilet, and shower into its minimal footprint. While there are many compact camper vans available, Kelly points out that his design stands out for its practical, livable layout, at least for short stays. The result is a surprisingly efficient space that could suit weekend adventures or minimalist travel. Though the claim of being the “world’s smallest” may be up for debate, there’s no doubt this mobile tiny house pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in small-scale living. Designer: Levi Kelly The micro-camper sits on a Japanese 1998 4×4 Honda Acty pickup, now painted military green instead of its original blue. Other than new wheels and the color update, the truck remains mostly stock. The real transformation is the custom camper shell. Built with a wooden frame, foam insulation, and exterior wall panels, it was carefully designed to stay within the truck’s 800 lb (362 kg) load limit. While the exact weight isn’t specified, it’s close to the maximum. For power, there’s an adjustable solar panel mounted on the roof, which can be reached by a side ladder, and a battery inside to store energy for off-grid use. Inside, the micro-camper offers just 21 square feet (1.95 square meters) of space, all arranged within a single multifunctional room. The compact layout is thoughtfully planned, making the most of every inch. The kitchen area features a practical sink with a tap that draws water from a simple bottle system, while wastewater is collected in a separate bottle to keep things tidy. There’s a bit of storage space for small essentials, and a built-in light helps keep the interior bright and usable at night. Cooking is handled by a portable hotplate, providing flexibility whether you’re making a quick meal or heating water. For colder nights, a tiny alcohol stove offers a source of warmth without taking up much room. To maintain airflow and comfort, a fan is installed nearby, ensuring the interior stays fresh even when the camper is fully closed up. Despite its small footprint, the space is efficiently organized to deliver the core necessities for short-term living, proving that careful design can make even the tiniest environment functional and comfortable. To access the bed, the setup is simple but efficient—the stove is moved aside, and the countertop lifts to reveal a pillow underneath. While Kelly, who is 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m), says he fits comfortably, taller individuals might find the space a bit cramped for sleeping. The bathroom setup is equally creative. A shower head connects to the kitchen tap and can be routed out the window to serve as an outdoor shower. For bathroom needs, there’s a dedicated storage compartment housing a camping-style flush toilet. A small bubble window extends from the side of the camper, allowing natural light in and providing extra headroom. This thoughtful detail lets Kelly sit upright on the toilet, making the tiny space feel a little more comfortable and bright. The post World’s Smallest Mobile Tiny House Is An Ultra-Compact Micro-Camper That Packs A Bed, Shower & Toilet first appeared on Yanko Design.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE Decor editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Audiophiles can argue over the perfect conditions for music listening from now to approximately eternity. This week, Valentino’s creative director Alessandro Michele, is proposing his version of the musical ideal: an installation called L’Atelier Sonore in the Madison Avenue Valentino flagship. Created in concert with architect Francesco Lupia and Terraforma, the Italian cultural collective, it launches tonight with a private, 10-hour listening party tonight, featuring some of Michele’s favorites, including artist Kevin Beasley and DJ Veronica Vasicka. The next day, the mezzanine opens to the public and will run through August. With its “bespoke sound system, a handcrafted multifunctional listening console inspired by traditional cabinet-making, and modular seating with velvet cushions,” according to a statement by Valentino, L’Atelier Sonore taps into a growing trend of ultra-luxury, bespoke listening rooms. View full post on InstagramCall them the new media room—or the new wine cellar or the new art wing—the listening rooms trending right now aren’t “man caves” or rec rooms with turntables. As much as they’re designed to enhance the sonic experience of the listener, these rooms are also built to showcase a super high-end, technically advanced sound system. Everything about them is sleek, custom, and obsessed with sound. Here, ELLE Decor investigates where listening rooms got their start, what’s happening with them now, and how to even build a listening room of your own. View full post on InstagramWhat is a listening room?Listening rooms are spaces designed to listen to music from high-quality sound systems. The key is amplification of sound quality––and not in only volume. The design is supposed to enhance the natural acoustics of a space so that listeners experience the “true” sound of the music or audio. The listening room therefore has to reduce exterior noise pollution as well as isolate the sound inside the room so it doesn’t bleed into exterior spaces. Listening rooms are similar to an evolved version of listening booths in music stores. Once the realm of audiophiles, the conversational definition of a listening room has expanded to mean spaces made for people who really like music and want to optimize their or their guests’ listening experience. Chairs are comfortable, lighting is low, and the ambiance is relaxed: These are spaces intended to foster an awareness of the way music or audio art makes you feel. What’s the history of the listening room?According to Sasha Frere-Jones, who wrote about listening rooms for Harper’s in 2022, the birth of the traditional listening bar can be traced to Japan just after World War II, when a “weak postwar economy” contributed to music lovers repurposing equipment instead of buying it new: “In the late Fifties and early Sixties, Japanese movie houses gradually upgraded to locally made pro audio, and the older stuff made its way into surplus shops. The used gear became part of listening rooms and jazz cafés.”Though they’re not popping up on every corner of major cities, the number of these types of venues continues to grow. Lists of listening bars in Los Angeles, London, New York and Berlin circulate the internet each year. Hotels are building listening rooms. The St. Augustine, in Houston, Texas has one just off the lobby, so guests can relax after checking in.Nicole FranzenIn the listening room of the St. Augustine, a sofa is by Lee Industries is covered in a striped fabric by Kravet. In tandem with the rise of listening rooms is the increasing prevalence of bespoke sound systems, like the one installed at Maison Valentino or the one made by Bridge Street Sound for Tower Labs, the Tower Records listening room in Brooklyn. Bespoke sound systems like these are typically made to suit the size and shape of the room, which inherently impacts sound waves and how listeners receive sound. And here’s another key to the space designed for reverential listening: There’s no right way to do it. Everyone listens differently just as each space impacts audio differently. The ideal setup, therefore, is up to the room’s builder. With this in mind, here are a few basic tips for constructing a listening room of one’s own. How to build a listening room at homeFirst: Identify what kind of listener you areDo you want to attempt to make a room that’s as close to perfect as possible? Or do you want to wow friends with a sound system that replicates a great music venue? Maybe you just want to optimize the space you have for the speakers you bought. Determining your listening goals will help you decide how much to invest in a listening room. Frere-Jones came up with a mnemonic device to define the different types of listening environments he identified after writing about listening rooms for Harper’s: “corner, club, cathedral, and cocoon”: The street corner is the block party experience, people are talking and ambient sounds join with the music. On the opposite end of the spectrum is the cathedral, which is how he describes the luxe listening room designed by the audiophile. Cocoon and club are in between. If you immediately react to one of these experiences, you might decide that a really good sound system in a room with a really nice chair is the extent of your listening room investment. Or you might decide it’s time to read the trade papers and consider construction on the guest room. Which takes us to step two…Second: Consult a sound expertIf you find yourself drawn to the minutiae of gear specifications: study first, build later. If you’re not, be warned: You can easily get lost in forums that describe the optimal modal density for your listening room and more. But, if this gets you going, here are a few solid resources to help you take flight:Regardless, seeking advice from an expert is helpful. And ideally, you’ll visit a few existing listening rooms to get a sense for the difference each element makes. Third: Consult a contractor. Not everyone has a lot of real estate to work with, and knowing how best to segment and insulate a space to optimize sound quality requires bonafide credentials. Consulting a contractor or specialty architect at this point is key. Though everything will depend on what you’ve got to work with and how much time and money you’ve got to invest, many elements of the listening room are built to cut down on reverberation. A few key elements to consider are:Floors: Most resources suggest solid floors that aren’t elevated above the foundation. Some say carpeting is ideal, others say concrete. Windows: Skip them, or very make sure they’re well sealed and insulated. Ceilings: Consider sound panels. Doors: As far from the sound equipment as possible. Lighting: If you’re after the reverential mood of a true listening room, consider low-light. Seating: Make it comfortable, ample, and reclining.