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From the outset, the MO Bakery owners knew they wanted a space that presented their baked goods as the stars of the show, highlighting them like precious jewels in a display case. Masquespacio honed in on water as a theme after realizing it’s one of the main ingredients in both baked goods and coffee, dividing the space into three different areas that each represent a different phase in the process of baking and brewing.

The first zone is dedicated to the liquid state, where water makes the dough start to come together. Next is the bar zone, where a massive waterfall-like installation made of sandblasted glass tubes hovers overhead. The front of the bar features the “solid-state” zone, with lamps representing ice. The third zone is the “gaseous state,” where a series of fire bulbs represent the moment when the pastry is baked in the oven.

Throughout the interiors, custom seating ranging from low lounges to high stools offers comfortable vantage points to take it all in. The various metallic finishes were designed to generate reflections mimicking the distortion that occurs when viewing objects through water. The scale of the space encourages people to stay a while, gazing up at everything and taking in the scents of the bakery’s goods.

“On the other hand, the lighting incorporates fully controllable RGB lighting to set moods that could convert the space to a different status, being able to represent a ‘different space’ within a space, in campaigns, engagements, or talks, which is also extended by the reflections of the space in chrome fabrics, tables, and spheres [that create] another level of optical fusion,” say the designers. “This space is not solid. It is interchangeable and dynamic following what the brand has to say. Welcome to the new mood branding.”

With decor and lighting that moody, the MO Bakery almost feels like a bar or nightclub instead of a daytime-oriented café. Which begs the question: why don’t we have more cool spaces to hang out in that aren’t bars or nightclubs? Masquespacio is onto something here.

MO Bakery wanted to stand out from its competition, and it’s probably safe to say they’ve successfully done so with this imaginative interior design. Check out three previous projects that capture Masquespacio’s creative approach to design: a vivid and playful Mango teen store in Milan, Italy; a lavender-hued sunglasses store in Bogotá, Colombia; and a pastel Bun burger restaurant on Milan’s Via Dell’Orso.

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Anyone that’s tired of tried-and-true decor styles should definitely take note of this playful new trend emerging as the fun, party-time alternative to the contemporary minimalism that feels all too common in spaces today. As designer Nicoló Bini says, it’s a bit like “ushering in the house of fun.”

As usual, celebs have been some of the first to get on board with the carnivalcore craze. Stars like Cara Delevingne have embraced the trend’s Alice in Wonderland appeal by decking out her Los Angeles home with circusy accoutrements like a costume room, tented poker room, ball pit, and, of course, trampolines. Decidedly maximalist and fantastically fun, some could see this as a classic case of celebrity overindulgence. However, there is something to this overreaching opulence that’s undeniably appealing. As Bini explains, the trend itself “has to do with nostalgia…bringing aspects of childhood, fantasy, innocence, and playfulness into our homes, which are now becoming real sanctuaries.”

It’s easy to see the appeal of turning one’s home into a livable, enjoyable space to spend time in. After a couple years of lockdowns and pandemic fatigue, transitions to remote work, and more time actually spent at home, who wouldn’t want a bit of pizazz and panache to make their space pop?

So how does one transform their home into a daring (but not clownish) version of a carnival without splurging on an actual midway or Delevingne-esque ball pits? There’s no better place to start than some carefully curated textures and colors — think less over-the-top and more playful. After all, you don’t need to throw out all your existing decor to make your home feel a little more fun. Work in a touch of drama with bold shapes, patterned prints, and anything else outside the norm that brings you joy.

While carnivalcore itself may seem like a niche trend destined only to exist as brightly-colored content on celebrity IG feeds, it’s always a good idea to bring a touch of whimsy into one’s home — because who wouldn’t benefit from bringing a bit of the extraordinary into their day-to-day routine? Whether it’s with a statement-making centerpiece or a whole room devoted to circus chic, anyone can get on board the maximalist merry-go-round that is carnivalcore.

The post Carnivalcore Ditches Finesse for All-Out Fun first appeared on Dornob.

The unnamed singer purchased a three-bedroom apartment in a 25-story Foster + Partners complex on the banks of the River Thames, and though it had amazing views, it was basically a blank slate full of way too many beige surfaces. He wanted its interiors to be more engaging than the city outside, a perfect setting for parties full of movers and shakers. It also had to be substantially different from his other home, a converted barn in the countryside.

The artwork, itself a tight closeup on Bowie’s face, is a collage-style portrait with a faceted geometric effect. Its soft tones of blue, gold, and the dark red shock of hair provided the mood and the base palette for the space. Though the inspiration is retro, the designers still wanted the apartment to feel contemporary, so they started by ripping out the old wood floors and replacing them with marmoleum, an eco-friendly natural material that’s easy to clean. This new surface is covered in a custom pattern, with black and pale blue shapes dancing across an off-white background.

“The open and adventurous nature of the brief allowed for a bold use of color and form,” the designers explain. “Sculptural, flowing shapes echo the curved lines of the architecture, while bespoke-made pieces such as a coral-colored drinks cabinet add moments of surprise. The lively design vernacular carries through the whole apartment, including a glittering sequined toilet (complete with disco ball) that plays David Bowie’s ‘Let’s Dance’ on a loop.”

With a bathroom as eccentric as that, the rest of the apartment had to have its own elements of delight. They come in the form of unexpected shapes and colors, like the triangular bookshelves in the living room, a graphic rug, and new kitchen tiles in a bold grid pattern. In fact, bold geometric patterns are virtually everywhere in the home, including the wallpaper, curtains, and headboards in the bedrooms, a series of custom black-and-white closet doors, and additional wall art.

“The principal bedroom was a really difficult shape as well,” Gordon adds. A bed takes up most of the room’s footprint, so the designers framed a custom headboard directly against the wall. “Its curve mirrors the shape of the room, as do the bedside tables.” Both are a rich, deep red, since “monochrome always brings a room together,” as she explains.

The oversized green velvet sofa is custom (naturally), as is the dining table, which is ringed by Noom’s Gropius chairs in a mouthwatering shade of orange. The inside of the bar cabinet echoes that color in a slightly softer hue. Fun shapes like Sella Concept’s Ladies Pond stools in the blue-gray shade of “Jesmonite” carry the abstract sculptural feel through each room.

Ultimately, the apartment does feel like a space that would make David Bowie proud. Check out the singer’s own slightly more subdued personal taste with a glimpse of the New York City apartment where he lived before his death in 2016, which sold for $16.8 million.

The post This Wild David Bowie-Inspired London Apartment Does the Late Singer Proud first appeared on Dornob.

Anderson’s style – punctuated by perfectly symmetrical framing and over-the-top pastel palettes – has become so iconic these days that the folks over at home care platform Angi (formerly Angie’s List) recently wondered what the director’s work might look like on the small screen. They took up the challenge by enlisting interior designer Lau Wlasenkov to give the sets of several beloved TV shows the full Anderson treatment. Don’t forget to look for Easter eggs from each series as you peruse these fun, light-hearted re-imaginings:

Friends

While Monica Geller’s iconic living room from the hit 1990s sitcom was already slathered in pastel purple, Angi switched it up to Anderson’s more signature red and pink palette. They also decluttered the space and added a retro wood-encased TV console. By setting the furniture at right angles, they produced more symmetry, a move echoed by the giant swaths of fabric balanced on either side of the main window. Phoebe Buffay’s legendary guitar also gets a place of honor in this Wes-ified room.

Russian Doll

This critically acclaimed Netflix series features a main character (Nadia) who finds herself in trapped in time, continually “waking up” in her bathroom at the exact same moment after every loop. In the show, Nadia’s bathroom is dark with black tiles, brass accents, and minimal lighting. The Angi designers gave it a Wes Anderson makeover by lightening the mood considerably. Geometric blue tiles in contrasting patterns create a type of symmetry above and below the vanity, as do stacks of steamer trunks placed strategically on either side. Warm-colored wood breaks up the busy-ness of the colors and designs. Savvy fans can also spot Nadia’s cigarette pack left casually in one corner.

Bridgerton

While this Netflix show about 19th-century love and gossip in British high society has already spawned an entire “Regencycore” aesthetic on social media, main character Daphne’s bedroom really goes next level with some Wes Anderson tweaks. Wlasenkov recovered the walls in bright red zebra-pattern wallpaper and outfitted both the foot bench and headboard in the same lush velvet fabric for symmetry. A playful, modern table lamp on one side of the bed balances out Daphne’s fluffy fan on the other.

Mad Men

This Emmy and Golden Globe-winning period drama set in the 1960s was credited for sparking a renewed love affair with the fashion of the era when it first came out in the mid-2000s. To make main character Don Draper’s kitchen more Wes Anderson-like, Angi erased the soulless oak-and-plaid decor and added bright yellow striped wallpaper, a happy floral curtain, and gleaming white cupboards. Draper’s hat also sits much nicer on the new dark butcher block counters.

Angi and Wlasenkov also worked together to create Wes Anderson versions of the Succession and Sex Education sets, both of which can be viewed in all their kitschy glory on Angi’s official site.

If this collection of TV set makeovers has you craving Anderson’s signature style in your own home, there are a few key things to keep in mind to recreate his signature look. Start with an element of symmetry, but keep it whimsical. Use a bold palette of three to five colors, playing around with saturated hues that make a statement while still complimenting each other. Add texture to your walls by adding paneling, even if its just on the lower half, and fill it in with intriguing colors. Create a carefully curated collection of beloved belongings you can artfully display around the room. With a little effort, you’ll feel like you’re on the set of one of your favorite Wes Anderson movies every day.

The post Iconic TV Sets Get Reimagined in Wes Anderson’s Signature Style first appeared on Dornob.

Beginning with the 2024 Alpha5 Plasmatail, a DeLorean DMC 12 that takes the company’s Back to the Future star to the next level, the company’s newest electric model is even more impressive, with a purposefully over-the-top Robocop allure. Dubbed the Omega 2040, the concept envisions an uncertain future not only dominated by electric cars, but one where an increasingly harsh and rugged landscape necessitates a pivot from purely style to form and (more importantly) function.

Described by DeLorean as taking its inspiration from “Baja-themed off-road racing,” the Omega 2040 looks more like an all-terrain vehicle at first glance than it does the DeLorean you know and love. With its high, lifted body and jumbo wheels, the EV looks ready to jump into a Mad Max-level wasteland fully charged and ready to rumble.

Known for delivering forward-thinking car concepts for over 40 years, the DeLorean Company certainly knows how to deliver when it comes to creating vehicles that even now look futuristic. A somewhat iconoclastic model that toes the line between sleek, polished virtuosity and rugged off-road appeal, the Omega 2040 is an aesthetic hybrid of sorts. Smooth, aerodynamic lines suggest an EV built for stylish speed and quasi-coupe design, while the highly-stacked body and monster truck wheels show that the car is a lot more than just good looks. Add in DeLorean’s distinctive gull-wing doors that so impressed Marty McFly, and the vision is complete: an impressive minimalist construction built for both speed and style, destined to navigate a post-apocalyptic world with aplomb.

According to DeLorean, the Omega represents a “complete departure from traditional automotive design,” and just one look is enough for any aspiring auto aficionado to see that this dynamic EV is not cut from the same cloth as its contemporaries. Ready to ride into the uncertain future ahead, the all-electric DeLorean Omega 2040 will undoubtedly navigate the roadways of the future with both LED-lit style and all-terrain, off-road ruggedness.

The post Delorean’s Omega 2040 Concept is Built to Endure a “Rugged” Future first appeared on Dornob.

Vaporwave was formed in the early 2010s from a desire to recapture the distinctive style and lo-fi technologies of previous decades like the 80s and 90s. Today, the trend champions cyberpunk spin-offs and electronica excesses of all kinds — and all of these influences have been tastefully worked into Mombá Arquitetura’s FM House.

A mashup of contemporary touches and throwback themes dominates the over 750-square-foot residence, where original features like while tile and granite floors co-exist with bright pops of color and futuristic furniture finds. Sharp angles are tempered by soft walls, and bold colors are given texture by plush textiles.

The kitchen highlights the space’s desire to accommodate both vaporwave and contemporary styles, with its vivid blue cabinetry and bright white tile backsplash. Plant life softens the scene and complements the room’s angular lines perfectly, while geometric shapes abound in every available nook and cranny. A mostly open plan creates the illusion of space in the house, while the middle wall sets a boundary between the kitchen and living area. A tucked away dining space completes the scene, itself hosting a similar mix of contemporary and vintage accents.

A blocky, angular sofa further creates a separation of space between the office and living area for a refined update of the increasingly popular mashup of home and office life making its way into modern living spaces. The couch’s graphic patten immediately draws the eye, and makes the perfect complement to the bold black and white rug on the floor.

The bedroom is another study in contrasts, featuring a muted pink wall as the backdrop for even stronger patterns and bolder colors. Hip light fixtures and a tucked away plant are welcome accents in this cozy space that’s as trendy as it is comfortable.

The perfect embodiment of the nostalgic vaporwave trend, Mombá Arquitetura’s FM House is a study in contrasts. Like the trend itself, it relies heavily on iconoclastic pairings that are full of texture and depth. Bursting with technicolor ferocity and tempered by soft, homey touches, this Brazilian masterpiece is yet another example of the design duo’s penchant for pushing the aesthetic envelope.

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Enter the newest offering from Yamaha Design Laboratory. “Stepping Out of the Slate” is comprised of four interactive music devices that aim to make playing music on your phone feel like a more tactile and immersive experience — an orchestra in your pocket that goes way beyond a simple push of a button.

Yamaha recently introduced prototypes for the devices, each with a snazzy name befitting its symbiotic function with your smartphone: the “TurnT,” “Winder,” “MusicLight,” and “RhythmBot.” The group aims to expand on the already burgeoning market for digital accessories and experiences that bring music to users’ pockets. But rather than solely relying on an app to replicate more traditional music experiences, these gadgets provide music lovers with a more interactive (and fun) way to play their favorite tunes.

The TurnT is just what it sounds like: a turntable, or record player, for your phone. Using your screen as the record, the TurnT’s stylus is positional and can be used to switch songs and albums, while also signaling the record to start playing. As the company recently said, “The step of carefully placing the stylus over the record [brings] back the nostalgia” of choosing your vinyl of choice and the anticipation of waiting for it to play.

If the TurnT is nostalgic, then the Winder plays even more on those retro analog feels. A key functioning as a music box, the user need only wind it to begin playing music on their smartphone. Here, the sound works directly in tandem with the movement of the spring, producing a distinctive flutter that is full of depth and texture for a more intimate interaction.

MusicLight is a candle that interacts with your smartphone. When lit, the music begins to play, as the sound itself changes gently with the flickering of the flame. The music even fades when the candle goes out. This accessory is all about creating a mood that works with the music, “Like listening to a song around a bonfire, the flame flickers in unison with the sound, creating a rich atmosphere,” says Yamaha.

Finally, the RhythmBot is a futuristic metronome that’s meant to accompany performers while they’re playing. But unlike its predecessor, the RhythmBot consists of four small bots that each play their own distinct percussive instrument. Able to sync with your phone, the bots are highly intuitive and can tune themselves to the players’ tempo. They can even accompany you as you play; the Garfunkel to your Simon, if you will.

Which new Yamaha toy are you most excited to try first?

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This colorful Ho Chi Minh City apartment is the perfect example of how the maximalist madness is taking over homes IRL, not just in design mags and social media feeds. Dubbed the “Dreamscape” apartment and designed by the Saigon-based Red5Studio, the space is a colorful ode to space-age design that perfectly encapsulates the swervy-curvy, topsy-turvy, vividly playful vibes taking the design world by storm.

Home to a couple who makes their living in the art world, the Dreamscape Apartment was created to provide inspiration while also evoking a welcoming, homey environment. With a focus on curvy lines and soft edges as opposed to the hard, straight lines and sharp angles so commonly seen in minimalist decor, the home feels like a retro retreat — one bursting with skittle-worthy colors that pop against its white-walled palette.

The middle of the apartment is dominated by a burnt orange sofa that looks straight out of a (comfy) spaceship — but that’s not all. A swirly, partially enclosed blue-walled “cave” faces the space-age sofa and houses DJ equipment for entertaining guests. The room itself is open, airy, and full of light, highlighting the many pops of riotous color that draw the eye — a flower power rug here, a globe light fixture there, the perfect balance of kitsch and low-key elegance.

The open plan main room flows purposefully into a dining room that’s by far the most understated space in the apartment. Dominated by a clear resin table that catches the light and swirls with delicate ripples, the effect is subdued yet magical. You can even spot a touch of whimsy in the accompanying black and green chairs, and the matching green kitchen counter behind them.

The bedroom continues the space’s study in bright, shapely furnishings with a gold upholstered bed complete with zebra-patterned bedding and super groovy light fixtures.The curved doorway and mirrored room divider are straight out of the 1988 Geena Davis classic Earth Girls are Easy — think a “futuristic” 1950s design aesthetic seen though the lens of over-the-top 1980s glam.

Despite its excesses, the Dreamscape apartment is still quite livable. Its rainbow-hued grooviness is perfectly complemented by its soft edges and muted, swirling aesthetics. It’s nighttime neon and DJ cave make it the perfect place for a party. A scintillating blend of futuristic funk and retro vibes, this Ho Chi Minh City apartment is the epitome of multidimensional maximalism — and the height of “good vibes only” style.

The post Space-Age Style Gets Its Groove Back in this Retro Ho Chi Minh City Apartment first appeared on Dornob.

Perhaps it’s the freedom to express oneself without worrying about the strict (and often unrealistic) constraints of minimalism, or maybe it’s a yearning for a past that, from our current world view, seems far away and less complicated. It could even just be a way to embrace the fun, happiness, and hope to be gained from having a home that’s comfortable and trendy.

Whatever the reason, people everywhere are embracing these trends in droves, whether it’s through full-blown home makeovers or the simple addition of a few on-trend accent pieces. And no accent piece is hotter right now than the iconic disco ball.

You heard that right. Emblematic of the 1970s, these sparkling panoplies of light that cast their dream rays on bell-bottomed dancers as they Funkytown-ed their way to Donna Summer are now the new favorite of online trendsetters. To sum it up: “Everyone thinks disco balls are good vibes.”

And this statement from Lina Shannon, creator of the original Disco Mirror and a 2021 Etsy Design Awards Finalist, couldn’t be truer, as tastemakers everywhere are adopting (and adapting) the brilliant ball into their own homes. But instead of the automated, spinning, and often more high-tech versions found in nightclubs, interior design mavens tend to be relying solely on the disco ball’s innately sparkling exterior to speak for itself, often through natural light shows that cast pinpoints of light over everything they touch.

The effect is magical, marvelous, and like something out of a tripped-out dream sequence. But instead of overwhelming the senses, it captivates them completely — akin to having your own fleet of fireflies at your fingertips.

Some say the recent resurgence in disco ball fandom is not a desire to recapture the past, but, as Studio Rotganzen’s Erik Schilp explains, “a playful representation of past glory…[and] a very visual metaphor of times gone by and the loss of imagined innocence.” Coming from Rotganzen, this assessment carries extra weight, as many attribute the shimmering spheres’ comeback to the studio’s 2021 collaboration with designer Kelly Wearstler. But social media (as always) has also propelled its popularity, with people everywhere contributing their own unique takes on the ubiquitous orb.

Once a centerpiece of only public spaces, the mirrored magic of the disco ball is now making its way into homes everywhere, recreating the good vibes of a bygone era in a troubling present that needs all the positivity and, well, sparkle, it can get — and that’s a beat we can all dance to.

The post Disco Balls are Dancing Their Way into Home Decor first appeared on Dornob.

Founded in 2018, Bosie is a Gen Z-oriented brand aimed at “constantly exploring fashion that is suitable for both men and women. Through retro childlike fun and unique products, we can break the shackles and boundaries and show the innocence, seriousness, freedom, and romance of adults.” The Huaihai Road store is their 27th retail location and the fifth to be designed by Leaping Creative, but it’s certainly the most noteworthy of them all.

“The retail trend in China nowadays is day by day focusing on offering an exciting and fresh shopping experience. By working closely with the brand founder, we approached the design by defining the actual customer expectations for a shopping destination,” adds Zen Zheng, the Design Director of Leaping Creative.

And what is it that Gen Z wants? Novel experiences that take you on a journey. Bosie isn’t just a clothing store — it’s also a supermarket, ice cream café, pet supply store, and multimedia museum. The clothing isn’t categorized by gender or even type of garment. The displays are a lot more fluid than that, following particular moods and themes. As shoppers wind their way through the new flagship location, they’ll find a Jetsons-like setting designed to make them feel like they’re traveling through space and time.

The design embraces a slightly retro-futuristic vision of space travel. Reflective stainless steel sheets and lots of glass frame minimalist clothing displays and oversized decor, including an installation resembling a rocket engine. At the entrance, two semicircular glass elevator shafts have been modified into floor-to-ceiling LCD screens playing Bosie lifestyle content to draw passersby inside. A set of spiral stairs shaped like a UFO lead to the escalators. Conveyor belts, capsule-shaped fitting rooms labeled “no gender border,” and porthole windows add to the effect.

Even the restrooms, water dispenser, and vending machines look like they came from a 1970s sci-fi movie. Upstairs, the Bosie brand mascot, a goose, is reinvented as a 17-foot-long fiberglass machine. There’s a pet hotel so shoppers can drop off or interact with dogs and cats, and a photo booth labeled “Time Machine.”

The mannequins don astronaut helmets, and accessories are displayed in a high-tech laboratory-style environment. All of these elements come together to produce exactly the kind of space young people flock to for TikTok content, drawing even more attention to Bosie, which is quickly becoming a cult favorite. It’s a great example of what we can expect to see from retail design over the next decade as more brands embrace the idea of shopping as an interactive experience.

The post Bosie’s New Shanghai Store is a Space-Themed Interactive Experience first appeared on Dornob.

Now, Soliver is introducing her vivid brand’s first collaborative collection, a partnership with the American Prize for Design laureate Karim Rashid. The small collection continues Sosomo’s penchant for integrating the craftsmanship and creativity of rug weaving with bold colors and flowing compositions. And Rashid’s creative eye also shines here. A perfect pairing with Sosomo’s existing aesthetic, “the amorphous, intertwining forms create a liquid-like, fluid pattern that speaks of softness, minimal yet sensual and warm for any interior,” he recently said when speaking of the upcoming collection.

And Rashid’s vision has certainly found the perfect palette, as Sosomo’s craftsmanship and handmade aesthetic soften his usual propensity for more sharply defined shapes with a digital edge. Here, Rashid’s curvy, geometric shapes and eye-poppingly vivid colors are given an added warmth when paired with the homey, richly-made Sosomo rugs.

Standouts series include two incredibly colorful creations that are like a Skittles ad come to life — candy-colored confections intricately overlapping and morphing into multi-dimensional shapes that are almost psychedelic in their construction. For example, the “Ikona,” itself described as a “blobular formed rug,” features a scalloped edge rimmed in dark blue and vivid purple, colors that perfectly complement the more abstract amorphous shapes at its center. The fluidity of these shapes gives them a sense of movement, an undulating quality whose design contains some of Rashid’s self-confessed favorite icons: “time, body, love, fluid, and blobism.”

A second example, dubbed “Likuid,” is, by contrast more ‘traditionally’ shaped, comprising a deceptively simple white, square creation full of Rashid’s go-to color faves. Bright, burnt orange, complex crimson swirls, and deep, lemony yellows are offset by light blue highlights and splashes of purple that add to the rug’s retro 1960s appeal. The rug’s texture also contributes to its acute sensory stimulus, featuring different pile heights (a detail found in many of Sosomo’s rugs), the overall impression is one of three-dimensional depth and fullness.

Shining a light on local craftsmanship and Dominican creativity through brightly-colored geometric designs, the artisanal rug brand is ready to reach a global audience with its new collaboration with Karim Rashid. A veritable treasure trove of psychedelic swirls undulating against the richly-weaved pile creates a lava-lamp like sensation of movement; further highlighting the brand’s already established oeuvre of colorful compositions, highly harmonious hues, and ingeniously inventive designs that aim to spread the message of Dominican craftsmanship and creativity to the world in a refreshingly retro way.

The post Soranyi Soler’s Collab with Karim Rashid is Full of Retro Rug Appeal first appeared on Dornob.

Back in the early 80s, the DeLorean seemed like a failure. Sold in the United States between 1981 and 1983, the rear-engine, two-passenger sports car released by the DeLorean Motor Company (DMC) was heavily hyped. But after some (pretty wild) high-profile legal issues and production problems, the DeLorean crash-landed, seemingly headed for the dust bin of history.

Its prominent role in the Back to the Future movies revived interest in the model, and ever since, it’s been an icon of retro-futuristic vehicle design. But only 6,000 original models remain on the road today, nearly all of them serviced at a Texas-based shop owned by Stephen Wynne, who bought the DeLorean branding rights in 1995.

Wynne is joined in the new electric “DeLorean EVolved” venture by a group of executives who recently worked with China-backed luxury EV startup Karma Automotive. Details on the new vehicle, including pricing, are scant. But a press release by a nonprofit local commerce group in the city of San Antonio, Texas, where the cars will be manufactured, provides a little more information.

“We are grateful for the tremendous support we’ve received from the community. San Antonio boasts a growing component and vehicle manufacturing sector as well as a wide array of global advanced manufacturing operations. This allows us countless synergies between established companies and suppliers in the broader region. A deep talent pool and a strong local academic ecosystem will foster further innovation,” said Joost de Vries, CEO of DeLorean Motor Company.

“There is no better place than Port San Antonio, located in District 4, to be the home of the innovative DeLorean EV project. Reconceptualizing the classic DeLorean into a model that will change our future with elements of our past is a fitting project to develop at the Port, which was built on the legacy of the former Kelly Air Force Base. We are witnessing history being made as Port solidifies its position as the Innovation Capital of Texas with the upcoming opening of the Innovation Center and an evolving ecosystem centered on emerging technologies in leading industries,” added San Antonio City Councilwoman Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia.

You may have caught a teaser for the DeLorean’s return during the Super Bowl LVI pregame, when a vague 15-second commercial showed a glimpse of the doors opening, an electric light gleaming on the front bumper. “Join us,” it read, followed by the company’s web address. At the site, you can sign up to receive details as soon as they’re available.

The big question is, will the new electric DeLorean maintain the nostalgic style fans love, or will it bring the car into the 21st century with a sleeker body style and other updates? The latter seems more likely, for better or worse. At the very least, the gull-wing doors remain, a style that Tesla adapted into its own “falcon-wing” doors. We’ll see whether DeLorean can catch up to the much younger EV maker, or if it remains a bit of a novelty.

The post The Iconic Gull-Wing DeLorean is Coming Back as an Electric Car first appeared on Dornob.

GRNDCNTRL is envisioned as a “Shanghai nightlife cultural center” that inspires people to see and be seen, putting on sartorial displays that rival Manhattan’s Studio 54 in its heyday. While the underground aesthetic emphasizes a sense of being hidden and secretive, with DJs tucked into dark corner booths, GRNDCNTRL arranges multiple levels of booths around a large open area. Wenqiang was inspired by the way ancient Greeks built theaters on hillsides so audiences can sit on stone chairs overlooking circular performance areas. From the moment guests walk in, they’re drawn into what feels like an entirely different reality. The visuals are a little surreal, with bright white lines of light cutting across a dark multi-level space.

“Art does not examine known reality, but seeks the truth of ideals,” says Wenqiang. “The entrance reveals an avant-garde, experimental, and immersive ambience, evoking vivid imaginations and taking people to a surreal world full of mysterious light and shadows.The wall decorations adopt a balanced composition, featuring the style of stage setting. A sequence of symmetrical, curved lighting installations draw on the deep, long lane form of local antique Shikumen buildings, with lines and rhythms guiding experiential circulations and extending inward.”

Leather, steel, brass, and jade accents contrast the field of black, which is itself multiplied by mirrors on almost every wall. “In order to balance the non-reflective and reflective black materials, all the stitching and structural closure became the biggest problem,” Wenqiang notes. The strips of LED lighting define the space and blur its edges at the same time, making it unclear which spaces are real and which are mere reflections. A bar lined with beautifully patterned jade and a central column clad in black mirrored stainless steel become visual anchors in the larger performance area, with its nearly 30-foot ceilings. A band of LED screens behind the lifted DJ booth can be raised and lowered to add additional ambiance.

This big hall “features the hip-hop music style with a strong sense of artistry and technology,” while the smaller hall is inspired by house and techno music with immersive lighting and shadows to create “a film-like retro atmosphere.” Lounges with mirrored ceilings visually echo the ever-changing and shifting lighting patterns so guests almost feel like they’re in a video game. The restrooms are a little more grounded, meant to provide a “backstage” respite from the lights and music.

Whether the design inspires clubbers to recreate the exclusive exhibitionist atmosphere of Studio 54 remains to be seen, but it will certainly take them on a journey.

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The physicality of the experience is a big part of what makes arcade games so fun, like the feel of your hands on the controls, the bucking and jerking of the chairs, and all the lights and sounds flashing and reverberating through the arcade. Competing against other players in person can be a lot more satisfying than playing virtually, too. But arcades are getting harder and harder to find, so recapturing that feeling isn’t easy.

Some gaming enthusiasts might go so far as to purchase old arcade games to play at home. If that’s going a touch too far for you, French artist Harow has another idea: replacing your sofa with the “Arcade,” a couch designed with the aesthetics of arcade games in mind. Available in a collection of 21 themes, the Arcade Sofa takes the classic shape of an arcade machine and turns it into an enclosure for a two-person lounger, perfect for bringing a little retro flair to your contemporary gaming experience.

Arcade enthusiasts will recognize some of the characters featured in each design. “Street Fighter” is among the most obvious and iconic, complete with a neon sign across the front and characters’ faces painted on the sides. “The King of Fighters” is another one, similarly enveloping you in the game’s visuals, which are augmented by turquoise upholstery on the cushions. Others make references to Dragon Ball, Jurassic Park, and kids’ games and characters like Pokémon and Hello Kitty.

Some of the Arcade Sofas are a little more loosely themed, like the Supreme, Obey, “Vandal” graffiti, and eco-friendly versions. They’re all made of recycled wood, steel, and velvet, and Harow will create custom sizes and configurations on request. If only this sofa had built-in speakers and lighting, it would be perfect, but that’s not too hard to DIY after the fact. You should also check out some of Harow’s other designs, which are equally noteworthy. A skull-shaped armchair, a Sputnik-inspired chair, and the Apollo 11 moon crater table are particularly cool.

About Harow

The artist’s website explains: “From street art to tattooing, passing through screen printing, sculpture, and graphic design, Harow is a French artist who grew up in the 90s. Belonging to the last generation of 20th Century Fox kids, he is rocked by movements such as Cyberpunk or Pop Culture at its peak. With his mind always in effervescence, his attractions are linked to his childhood, from dystopian anime to space adventures, from Errò’s frescoes to Hirst’s skull, his overall state of mind is enlightened by the indelible images of this century.”

“Spending most of his time exploring all forms of art, Harow is a self-taught artist who stimulates his creativity daily. He approaches his work primarily from a perspective of recontextualization through strong aesthetic symbols. His philosophy is not to follow any trend but rather to consider each project without limit of design, the difficulty of making is an integral part of the creative process. Visually stunning, his works are described as sophisticated and brutal. They are distinguished by a balance between chaos and order, which makes them simply unforgettable.”

The post Revel in the Nostalgia of Retro Gaming with the Arcade Sofa first appeared on Dornob.

Released to celebrate the Grandeur’s 35th anniversary, the Heritage Series Grandeur is bound to be divisive. Some people (including this writer) find the clean lines and retro charm alluring. Others might think it’s a silhouette better left in the past. But Hyundai’s updates to the original Grandeur are intriguing, hopefully pointing to a new trend of electrifying beloved cars from decades long ago. Featuring an all-electric powertrain, the Heritage Series version adds “Parametric Pixel” exterior lighting for a fun animated effect, new side mirrors, covered wheels, and a modernized interior.

“For the Heritage Series Grandeur’s luxe interior, the designers applied a ‘Newtro (newness + retro)’ concept theme to stimulate passengers’ senses with bronze-colored lighting that is reminiscent of period audio equipment and a modern audiophile sound system to match,” reads a press release. “The front seats are fitted with burgundy velvet, inspired by the original Grandeur, with the unexpected twist of elegantly stitched and laced auburn Napa leather on the back. The center console armrest contains a hidden pop-out compartment for storing valuables like watches.”

All the dials and switches on the original Grandeur’s dash are replaced with an ultra-wide touchscreen display, and a bronze-colored light beam stretching around the cabin nods to the colors of 80s stereos. “Infinity mirrors” make the interior feel even larger than it really is. But the important original details that you’d want to see preserved are still present, like a single-spoke steering wheel and a gear selector inspired by jet planes.

The press release also notes that “the designers incorporated a 4way4 sound system developed by South Korean sound designer Guk-il Yu that controls the 18-speakers. The audio system delivers rich sound with magnificent clarity and deep bass thanks in part to the composition of Grandeur’s center console and dashboard, which are designed based on concert hall acoustic theory. The soundbar’s piano function can be played through the audio system when the vehicle is in park.”

The Grandeur is the second classic Hyundai model to get an electric makeover. Previously, the automaker transformed its 1975 Pony Coupe, the inspiration behind the legendary DeLorean DMC 12 featured in the Back to the Future series. The three-door coupe kept its old-school exterior but received a new EV powertrain, camera-based exterior mirrors, pixelated headlights and taillights, and a fun speed gauging instrument panel using retro Nixie tubes.

Seriously, who would choose a regular old Prius or any other contemporary electric or hybrid vehicle over something like this? Imagine if auto manufacturers took this concept even further, creating electric versions of classic 70s muscle cars or gangster cars of the 1940s, like the Pontiac Streamliner. The view while stuck in traffic would be a lot more interesting, at the very least.

For now, Hyundai’s Heritage Series cars are likely to remain a fun concept instead of something we can actually buy, and that’s a real shame.

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