‘Sponge’ Cities Combat Urban Flooding by Letting Nature Do the Work
The concept of “sponge cities” in China, pioneered by landscape architect Yu Kongjian, represents a transformative approach to urban flooding by harnessing the natural environment. Yu’s firm, Turenscape, has spearheaded numerous projects across China that employ native ...
Here’s How Lahaina’s 151-Year-Old Banyan Tree Is Doing a Year After the Devastating Fire
A year after the devastating fire in August 2023, which ravaged Maui and severely damaged Lahaina, the town’s beloved 151-year-old Banyan Tree shows signs of resilience. The fire, which claimed over 100 lives and decimated much of the island’s landscape, left the Banyan ...
Dreamlike Impasto Paintings Evoke Artist’s Childhood Memories of Rural Life
Anastasia Trusova’s impasto paintings serve as a vibrant homage to her rural childhood in Russia, where the simplicity of life was intertwined with the rich beauty of nature. Using thick layers of brightly colored acrylics, Trusova creates dreamlike landscapes that evoke the lushness ...
The Nightmare Before Christmas LEGO® Set Coming in Time for Halloween and Christmas
As Halloween and Christmas approach, fans of “The Nightmare Before Christmas” have a new reason to celebrate. LEGO® is releasing a special LEGO® Ideas set that beautifully combines the spooky charm of Halloween with the festive spirit of Christmas, making it a perfect ...
One Key to Success For U.S. Women’s Gymnastics Team Is a Support Dog to Calm Nerves
One key to the success of the U.S. Women’s Gymnastics team at recent competitions, including their impressive haul of eight medals, is Beacon, a golden retriever who provides emotional support to the athletes. While much of the spotlight is on Simone Biles’ extraordinary ...
Trees “Hold Their Breath” During Wildfires To Avoid Damage From the Smoke
Trees, much like humans, have developed mechanisms to protect themselves from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke. A study by MJ Riches and Delphine Farmer from Colorado State University reveals that trees essentially “hold their breath” during wildfires to avoid inhaling ...
2,000-Year-Old ‘Tomb of Cerberus’ Coffin Is Cracked Open in Italy
The recent opening of the 2,000-year-old “Tomb of Cerberus” in Naples, Italy, has unveiled fascinating insights into the lives and burial practices of an ancient Roman family. Discovered in 2023 near Giugliano, this well-preserved tomb is adorned with elaborate frescoes ...
Robot-Looking Kitchen Air Purifier Can Get Close to Your Stove to Absorb Smoke
The Roba is a futuristic kitchen air purifier designed to tackle the common problem of smoke and odors during cooking, especially in homes without built-in exhaust systems or kitchen hoods. Shaped like a sleek robot, this device is engineered to sit close to your induction stove, ...
Plywood Desk Concepts Use Waves to Create Easy-Access Storage Spaces
The Aalto desk concept exemplifies the innovative use of minimalist design to enhance functionality and aesthetics. Incorporating wave-like forms into the desk’s structure eliminates the need for traditional storage solutions like drawers, which are prone to wear and can obstruct ...
