Dubbed the Fàng Sōng, this houseboat is designed by Crossboundaries and is powered by a solar panel setup. The houseboat features a clever space-saving interior that draws inspiration from tiny homes. The name is derived from the Chinese word for relaxation. The owners commissioned Crossboundaries to create a home that lets them live near the coast, enabling them to enjoy a peaceful life on the water. The houseboat serves as a comfortable yet tiny abode to live and work in.
“Crossboundaries has re-designed a fully solar-powered motorboat with high-end, tiny-home characteristics that enable it to function as a slow-motion traveling nest,” said the firm. “The five-year-old boat caught Marianne’s eye, its exterior’s resemblance to a bus on the water and the potential for the interior design quickly sparked her interest. With enough space for up to two persons as well as guests, it had the potential to easily become a personal retreat for re-energizing and a cozy getaway to invite friends and family.”
The interior of the houseboat is quite spacious and occupies around 667 sq ft over one floor. The dwelling comfortably floats above water and is amped with generous glazing, most of which is operable. The glazing allows light to stream in through the day and supports ventilation. The interior decor is vibrant and bright with hues of red and yellow. Although the red and yellow maybe too loud and extravagant for some people, so it depends on personal preferance.
Most of the available floor space is occupied by the living room, which includes a big sofa bed, shelving, and a work desk placed in front of a window. The kitchen is also included in this space, and it is well-stocked and designed with an oven, four-burner propane-powered stove, fridge, drink, and a folding dining table that can be put away when not in use. A folding bed can also be fitted over the helm. The whole home is amped with underfloor storage, which is truly quite useful. The home is heated by a pellet stove, which can be controlled via an app. The space also includes a terrace area with seating.
As mentioned the home is solar-powered, but we are unaware of the capacity of the solar panels. The solar panels have been installed on the rooftop and the facade. The firm says that in good weather conditions, the small houseboat can be powered completely by the solar panels, allowing it to cruise for around 31 miles per day.
Designed by Ridgeline Tiny Homes, the Hartley tiny house is bigger than the firm’s Sun Valley tiny home, featuring a length of 27.6 ft. The home is pretty compact, but the extra space has allowed the designer to create a space-saving layout that perfectly accommodates a family of four. Based on a double-axle trailer, the Hartley home features a black metal cladding, amped with generous glazing, allowing sunlight to stream in throughout the day. The home is powered by a standard RV-style hookup.
Designer: Ridgeline Tiny Homes
You can enter the home via double glass doors, wherein you are welcomed by a 290 sq ft floorspace. The interior is finished in plywood, with the entrance leading you to the kitchen. The kitchen is well-stocked, and well-designed, equipped with an oven with a four-burner-propane-powered stove, sink, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, custom cabinetry, and a pull-out pantry. The kitchen also includes a two-person breakfast bar. The kitchen and the living room are connected. The living room includes a sofa, a small deck, as well as a storage-integrated staircase.
The opposite end of the home includes the bathroom. The bathroom is pretty spacious and roomy for a tiny home, and it is equipped with a shower, flushing toilet, vanity sink, and loads of custom cabinetry. The Hartley includes two bedrooms – both are loft-style spaces that you typically find in tiny homes. The bedrooms have low ceilings and double beds. The main bedroom can be reached through the storage-integrated staircase, while the secondary bedroom can be accessed via a removable ladder. The double bed in the second bedroom can be switched to two single beds if needed.
Currently, we are unaware of the price of the Hartley tiny home. We do know that there are plenty of options available for the Hartley including color, materials, and cabinetry choices.
Architects Oualalou + Choi and stadium experts Populous teamed up to design a truly mindblowing new stadium that will resemble a massive tent. Dubbed the Grand Stade Hassan II, the extraordinary stadium will be built near Casablanca, Morocco, and will be deemed the largest stadium in the world! The Grand Stade Hassan II is being constructed since Morocco will be share hosting the upcoming 2030 FIFA World Cup with Portugal and Spain. The stadium is inspired by a traditional Moroccan gathering called Moussem.
The stadium will be able to hold 115,000 people, proudly making it the largest capacity soccer stadium in the world. It will be larger than the capacity of the current largest sports stadium in the US, which can hold around 107,601 sports fans. The stadium will feature a tent-like form, amped by an aluminum lattice exterior which will offer shade to the visitors, and facilitate ventilation. The landscaping will be highly focused upon, and it will include a ring of 32 stairways functioning as gateways with greenery on the raised platforms. The stadium will include botanical gardens as well and will be home to two local soccer clubs.
“The Grand Stade Hassan II is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture, with its traditions and contemporary expressions,” said Tarik Oualalou, Design Principal and founding partner at Oualalou + Choi and Lead Architect for the project. “It is rooted in ancient and primordial figures: the Moussem, the tent, and the garden, as well as the topography and landscapes of Morocco. It’s a generous space, open to the world and respectful to the nature it protects. The Grand Stade Hassan II de Casablanca is the embodiment of the great tradition of Moroccan hospitality.”
The construction prep has started on a 100-hectare site in El Mansouria, near Casablanca. We are unsure when the stadium will be completed, but it should be done by 2030.
Dubbed the CRANE WASP, this 3D printer is also known as “the infinity 3D printer”. The impressive printer utilizes locally sourced clay, mud, or cement to 3D-print affordable homes. The printer even uses agricultural waste as aggregate to build homes. Currently, this system is being employed to construct some much-needed housing in Colombia.
Designer: United Nations Development Program (UNDP)
The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) recently purchased a Crane WASP to build affordable and effective homes in Colombia. The homes are built using local soil and resources. The printer is priced at around US$180,000, which is no small amount. Currently, more than a quarter of Columbian households are suffering from a lack of decent housing – an estimated 3.7 million. Two of three families who do have homes aren’t in great condition either, since the dwellings are subpar and need structural improvements. By utilizing locally sourced soil, the UN won’t need to bring in expensive materials from other lands. This tactic is bringing down costs significantly.
The Crane WASP ( World’s Advanced Saving Project) draws inspiration from the Mason Wasp – a little yet hard-working insect that uses mud to make its own nests. The UNDP intends to install the printers in challenging terrains, where it is difficult to set up expensive and conventional equipment. This equipment would have limited access as well. The Crane WASP is complemented by the local soil, and both work excellently to build homes for the impoverished or homeless.
If you love spending your downtime binging on Netflix shows or building LEGO sets for fun, then you’ve reached the right spot. This collection includes five spectacular designs where the world of Netflix meets the haven of LEGO! That’s right, we’ve curated a collection of super fun, detailed, and intricate LEGO collections based on some iconic TV shows and movies. From a LEGO model of the 99th precinct from Brooklyn 99 to an amazing set of the Central Perk Café from Friends – this collection of fantastic LEGO builds is a must-have for the Netflix-binging adults out there.
1. LEGO Brooklyn 99
If I had to pick a comfort show – it would be Brooklyn 99 for me. So you can imagine my excitement when I discovered that LEGO builder Ben Fakhauser has created an amazing build for it! The LEGO model includes the entire 99th precinct, including all the different rooms and characters as well. The build is extremely precise and intricate, consisting of everything – ranging from the bullpen to the printer room, and the captain’s office. Secret details like Holt’s pet corgi Cheddar were integrated as well.
2. LEGO Downtown Abbey Set
LEGO builder BRO3 built a dedicated LEGO set for the historical drama series Downtown Abbey to celebrate the show’s 15th anniversary! This marvelous set displays the old Highclere Castle and is truly detailed. It includes the massive Crawley family, even the butlers and the castle caretakers who are the main cast of the show. The set contains multiple rooms, and 15 minifgures or 16 if you count the dog Pharaoh. It even contains Lady Mary’s bench.
3. LEGO Godzilla
This LEGO version of Godzilla is the first LEGO Godzilla out there, even though there have been ten or more movies already. The build was created by the LEGO lover Matthew Esposito, and it is a small-scale variant of the city-destroying reptile. The LEGO Godzilla is inspired by the ‘King of Monsters’ Godzilla from the 2019 movie. It is a couple of inches tall, equipped with a heavy body and long ass tail. The Godzilla can blow blue flames as well!
4. LEGO Men in Black
Created by the KostyanMan, this custom set of Men in Black depicts the final battle of the first movie in the MIB movie series. It involves MIB agents K and J, driving on a hyperdrive car to the park, to save the world from an evil alien monster! The set includes a diorama with decorations, transforming LTD, the Bug, and some Easter Eggs too. The mini-figures include Agent K, Agent J, Dr.Laurel Weaver, Frank the Pug, and a couple of other characters. J is also holding a baby squid in his arms!
5. LEGO Central Perk
Another LEGO fan created a collectible model of the Central Perk Café to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the iconic show! You can build the legendary TV set, and relive hilarious moments with this detailed building toy. It includes a stage for musical performances, allowing Phoebe to stand tall and sing her legendary songs. The set also includes the iconic seating area, which is removable for easy play. It includes 7 minifigures – Ross, Chandler, Joey, Monica, Phoebe, Rachel, and Gunther!
Named the St. Pauli Bunker, this mammoth building was constructed during WWII to protect the Hamburg residents from the Allied bombing raids. The imposing structure was once a representation of the Nazi ideology, but it has now been transformed into a unique-looking green hotel and restaurant space, and a big park and “mountain path”.
Designer: Matzen Immobilien KG
The St. Pauli Bunker was originally called the Flakturm IV and was constructed by forced laborers in 1942. The building had an official capacity of 18,000 people, but it protected and offered shelter to almost 25,0000 Hamburg residents. When the war ended, the Allies wanted to blow up the building but didn’t because it was unsafe on account of the bunker’s thick walls and central location. In the postwar years, the building was used as an art and cultural hub, and a music venue and events center. In addition, a massive extension has now been included which weighs as much as 60 AirBus A380s and is offered support by 16 steel pillars. This extension consists of five floors and elevates the bunker’s height from 35 m to 58 m above ground. The new extension includes a hotel, restaurant, cafe, and social spaces.
“The public recreational space combines a number of ecological, cultural, and historical aspects,” said the press release. “This is because, in addition to the spectacular urban garden, there are spaces for district culture, exhibition areas, urban gardening facilities, accommodation for scholarship holders and artists, a modern three-field hall for school sports and cultural events, and a hotel. In addition, the historic site has for the first time a memorial and information center: in the former control center and at other locations in the existing building, an initiative commemorating the victims of the Nazi regime and World War II.”
The interior includes almost 23,000 trees and plants, forming a lovely rooftop park that measures around 1 hectare. The park can be entered free-of-charge for visitors, although to reach it you need to climb 335 steps or walk on a 560-m “mountain path” around the exterior, which allows visitors to enjoy the views of the city.
Indoor gardening can be a soothing and relaxing hobby. It is an extremely therapeutic activity, and though I may not engage in it all the time, the few times that I have, I found it delightful and soothing. Growing, tending to, and being surrounded by plants is intensely satisfying. All your worries slowly fade away, and you are simply enthralled by nature. Indoor gardening has become one of the major trends these days! Plants can truly transform a living space with their gentle presence. They add a touch of green and nature and create a serene and zen atmosphere. But tending to them is not always the easiest task. You must pay special attention to your beloved plants and give them the best care to ensure they grow well. And, we’ve curated a whole collection of product designs to help you with that – happy gardening!
1. Briiv Pro
Named the Briiv Pro, this eco-friendly purifier utilizes a mix of nature and technology to clean and purify the air within your home. The Briiv Pro is a new and improved version of the original Briiv, and it is more powerful than ever. Designed to be a ‘mini forest’, the air purifier can cleanse a 16 sq.m. room in 21 minutes. It is 6900% more effective than house plants!
Why is it noteworthy?
Since the Briiv Pro is 6900% more effective and efficient than house plants, it is a truly commendable feat considering its size. The purifier is not only functional but also pretty good-looking, unlike the bulky and ugly appliances that you get on the market these days.
What we like
Features an AI-based sensor
Equipped with a layered trifecta of moss, coconut fiber, and a silk nanofiber matrix with activated carbon
What we dislike
The Briiv Pro isn’t as fast as other air purifiers on the market, and it is quite expensive as well
2. Patella Crescenda
Named the Patella Crescenda, this planter fits perfectly in both your palms and lets you grow greens with complete ease and efficiency. The planter has a unique shape, which lets it water itself, ensuring you don’t need to. You can grow seeds without any soil, and the sprouts grow in about a week. The planter is reusable as well, ensuring you always have a fresh supply of microgreens.
Why is it noteworthy?
The planter includes four parts – a base tray, two reusable steel seed plates, and a water bulb that fits on top. All the parts come together, helping your greens sprout within a week. They grow in the water, without any soil, so you don’t even need to clean them.
What we like
Intuitive design
Fun to use product
What we dislike
It works only for micro-greens and cannot be converted into long-lasting plants
3. Green Hideaway Chair
Dubbed the Green Hideaway Chair, this DIY living plant chair lets you connect with nature. It is created by Stockholm-based studio Front/ in collaboration with the European DIY chain HORNBACH, and its creative agency HeimatTBWA. With the Hideaway Chair, you can add a touch of green to your home.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Green Hideaway Chair doesn’t need any professional expertise to set it up. DIYers of all skill levels can easily set up this simple chair. The chair is accompanied by illustrated, step-by-step instructions, a template, as well as an entire list of tools and materials that you may need. The entire process is laid out for you.
What we like
Makes nature accessible to you in your own home
What we dislike
It will occupy some space, so you need to make sure you have sufficient space to add it to your home
4. Noku Canvas
Called the Noku Canvas, this self-watering and modular greenwall is designed for your home. It converts your houseplants into wall-mounted hydroponic marvels, letting you add a touch of green to any room in your home, whether it is your home office, living room, or even the kitchen!
Why is it noteworthy?
The Noku Canvas is self-watering, as it is amped with wicking hydroponics that water your plants for you. It is equipped with a useful little water gauge which reminds you when to refill the water.
What we like
Modular design, so you can customize it however you want
Built from recycled plastic and natural cork
What we dislike
It only includes a wall-mounted version, there is a limited choice
5. Totam Planter
Say hello to the totam planter – a modular self-watering indoor garden that is created to enhance your space. You can personalize the planter according to your taste and needs. It is a one-of-a-kind vertical indoor garden that showcases and displays your beloved plants with pride. You can grow microgreens, succulents, food, flowers, whatever you like!
Why is it noteworthy?
It is a modular design, so you can build your own customized totam planter using a combination of different modules. You can use a whole bunch of different modules to create your own perfect tower. By adding vertical modules to the tower, you can create extra space for tall or trailing plants to grow freely.
What we like
Packs a whole bunch of greens into a small countertop footprint
You can schedule lighting at the touch of a button
What we dislike
They currently don’t offer any Matter/HomeKit support for their lighting
France has pretty tough towing laws, which probably explains why French tiny homes are smaller and more compact as compared to the ones made in the US. French tiny homes are known to be little and portable, but the Tiny house du Lac by Plume takes that portability to a whole new level. Measuring a length of 17.8 feet, the home accommodates two people, or even a family of three – though that could be a bit of a tight fit.
As you enter the home, you truly understand how compact it is. Most of the floor space is occupied by one large room. You are instantly welcomed by the kitchen, which is pretty compact, but includes an induction stove, small fridge, sink, and some cabinetry. Although the available floor space is limited, the home includes a living room as well. The living room holds a two-person sofa and a small drop-down wall-mounted dining table that seats two people. Wooden furniture and light hues dominate the space, creating a living environment that is soft and warm, making one feel instantly at ease.
The opposite end of the home contains the bedroom, which is quite an interesting room, as it is arranged like a loft bed, instead of a conventional mezzanine bedroom. You can access the double bed via some wooden steps, and the space beneath the bed is used as a storage space. Plume also recommends that the space below can be used for a child’s bed or as a cozy reading nook. The adorable and comfortable home is a perfect fit for those who like a life on the go. The home is well-equipped with essential furniture and has enough space for a small family of three. The tiny home is currently up for sale, although we are unaware of the pricing. Interested parties can contact Plume directly for more information!
Labor Day is here, and it’s time to chill out, fire up the grill, and make the most of the holiday weekend. Whether you’re planning a relaxing day with the family or hosting a backyard bash, we have everything you need to elevate your celebration. From stylish kitchen essentials to outdoor must-haves, here are our top 10 picks to upgrade your Labor Day plans.
1. Black Kitchen Knives: Slice Like a Pro This Labor Day
Thinking of becoming the next MasterChef this Labor Day? The Black Kitchen Knives aren’t just sharp—they’re sharp-looking. Crafted in Seki, Japan, these all-black beauties blend ancient samurai craftsmanship with modern materials like molybdenum vanadium steel, offering exceptional edge retention and easy maintenance. A titanium coating adds wear resistance, keeping your blades sharper for longer, so you spend less time sharpening and more time impressing your guests.
Hand-finished by skilled artisans, each knife delivers perfect balance and precision with every slice. Whether you’re prepping meats or slicing veggies, these knives make cooking feel effortless and stylish.
Why You Need It: Make a statement this Labor Day with knives that combine sharpness, durability, and striking design.
2. Inseparable Notebook & Pen: Jot Down Genius Ideas Anywhere
Ever had a million-dollar idea while flipping burgers? Don’t let it slip away. The Inseparable Notebook & Pen are your new best friends. With a magnetic clip that keeps them together, this dynamic duo ensures you’re always ready to scribble, doodle, or draft your next big thing. Poolside or park bench, brilliance strikes anywhere.
Why You Need It: Keep your brainwaves flowing wherever you are. You never know when inspiration will hit—be prepared!
Hosting this Labor Day? The Iron Frying Plate has got your back. This kitchen MVP goes from stove to table with a flick of the wrist, thanks to its detachable wooden handle that you can attach or remove with just one hand. Rust-resistant, stick-resistant, and ready to use straight out of the box, it’s perfect for serving up sizzling fajitas or perfectly seared steaks. Your guests’ jaws will drop. Trust us; this plate makes you look like you know what you’re doing.
Why You Need It: Effortlessly cook and serve in style this Labor Day with a plate designed for easy, impressive entertaining.
Start your day right with the Eterna Glass Mug. Made from recycled glass and 100% recyclable, it’s not just a mug; it’s a statement. Crafted with twelve elegant angles representing each hour on the clock, this mug symbolizes the flow of time and the connections between life’s moments. The unique glass-dyeing technique gives each piece its own color, shaped by the interplay of glass, light, and your beverage. Picture sipping your coffee as the morning sun catches the light in the glass—pure magic.
Why You Need It: Good vibes, good coffee, and a nod to sustainability—what’s not to love? Sip consciously and in style.
5. Pop-Up Book Vase: Decor that Doubles as a Party Trick
Ready to amaze your guests? The Pop-Up Book Vase is a flat book that springs into a vase, offering a delightful surprise every time. Flip a page to reveal another simple yet graceful vase design, perfect for a fresh look whenever you want. Turn the book upside down for an enchanting new perspective. Made from 100% natural pulp with a water-resistant coating, it’s perfect for a last-minute decor boost that’ll leave your friends asking, “Where’d you get that?” Pop in some fresh flowers, and bam—you’ve just leveled up your hosting game.
Why You Need It: Instant decor points with a versatile twist. Plus, it’s easy to store—more space for other cool stuff.
6. Precision Chopstick Tongs: Serve Like a Sushi Master
Why settle for ordinary tongs when you can have the Precision Chopstick Tongs? Inspired by traditional Japanese utensils, these sleek, chopstick-style tongs blend the elegance of chopsticks with the practicality of tongs, letting you handle delicate foods like a pro. Made from SUS821L1 stainless steel, they offer exceptional strength and corrosion resistance, perfect for your Labor Day sushi night or any dish that requires finesse. With a special black oxide film processing, they boast a luxurious finish that won’t fade or scratch, ensuring you impress your guests with style and effortless precision.
Why You Need It: Hosting just got a whole lot cooler. Serve up style, durability, and precision with every bite.
7. Airflow 8-Panel Fire Pit: Keep the Vibes Cozy All Night
As the sun sets and the temperature drops, keep your outdoor hangout warm and welcoming with the Airflow 8-Panel Fire Pit. This isn’t just any fire pit—it’s a party starter with a unique 8-panel removable design that lets you effortlessly adjust the intensity of the fire. Combined with an adjustable combustion system and optimized airflow, it promises minimal smoke and easy cleanup. Perfect for roasting marshmallows or enjoying a glass of wine under the stars, this fire pit makes your backyard the place to be this Labor Day.
Why You Need It: Extend the fun into the night with a fire pit that offers both ambiance and convenience. Nothing beats the glow of a crackling fire.
8. Slim Fold Dish Rack: Compact Convenience for Your Labor Day Adventures
Planning a Labor Day picnic, camping trip, or just a backyard BBQ? The Slim Fold Dish Rack has got you covered. This innovative dish rack collapses from 14″ (36cm) to just 1.2″ (3cm) in a second, thanks to its patent-pending spring mechanism, making it perfect for any setting—whether you’re outdoors or saving space in your kitchen. With its minimalist yet durable design, it provides ample space and ventilation for all your plates, utensils, and cookware, ensuring everything dries quickly and is ready for its next use.
Why You Need It: Keep your holiday stress-free with a dish rack that’s as portable as it is practical, ideal for any Labor Day outing or for maximizing space at home.
9. JewelVase Mirror Stand: Double the Function, Double the Style
Add a touch of elegance to any room with the JewelVase Mirror Stand. This 2-in-1 wonder acts as both a mirror and a vase, bringing a chic and multifunctional vibe to your decor. Perfect for entryways, living rooms, or any spot that needs a little glam. It’s like having two pieces of decor in one, and who doesn’t love a good two-for-one deal?
Why You Need It: Boost your space’s style with a piece that does double duty. Plus, it’s an instant conversation starter.
Stay fresh all day with the Aroma Fragrance Pin. This isn’t your average air freshener—it’s a stylish accessory that keeps you smelling great no matter where your Labor Day plans take you. Clip it on and enjoy a subtle, lasting scent that’s perfect for busy, on-the-go days. Whether you’re hitting up a picnic, a beach day, or a family gathering, stay cool, calm, and collected.
Why You Need It: A refreshing scent that travels with you. What’s not to love?
Kautokeino is located in Norway, north of the Arctic Circle, and suffers from extremely cold temperatures that can hit – 45 °C. Snøhetta was commissioned to build a brand-new cultural and education hub in this difficult location. A lot of thinking and attention to detail went into building this sturdy wooden structure which is supposed to be 90% self-sufficient in heating and cooling. Named, this building was constructed in collaboration with Joar Nango and 70°N arkitektur. The word ‘Čoarvemátta’ is derived from the Sami words for horn and root, which are the strongest parts of the reindeer’s antler. The hub is inspired by the local Sami culture and will be hosting the Sami National Theatre Beaivváš and the Sami High School and Reindeer Herding School.
The structure occupies around 77,500 sq ft and is constructed mainly from wood. It features an impressive 53,000-sq-ft sloping roof that slowly moves towards the ground. The exterior was built using the slate from a previous school which has been demolished. The hub has a branching shape which creates surreal outdoor spaces. The south-facing space functions as the main entrance, and is protected by the dipping roof. The interior is equipped with theater and school areas, as well as a cool skylight inspired by a traditional Sami smoke hole. The interior is subtle yet beautiful, letting the natural beauty of the wood truly shine. The interior is also amped with traditional art by respected Sami artists. These pieces add hints of red and blue to the space, livening it up.
“The building is 90% self-sufficient in energy to heating and cooling thanks to 40 geowells drilled about 250 meters [820 ft] into the ground,” said Snøhetta. “The wells supply two heat pumps that both heat and cool the building, while exchangers for the energy wells dump surplus heat back again. On the coldest winter days, the system is supplemented with an electric boiler.”
The Čoarvemátta is in complete accordance with the requirements of the Passive House Standard – a strict green building standard that needs a high level of insulation and air-tightness. The hub also utilizes geothermal heating. The landscaping around the Čoarvemátta has been kept natural since Sami culture does not include creating parks and urban spaces. The soil that was removed from the site has been preserved, stored, and returned, ensuring the safety of the seed stocks.
