Paris-based lifestyle brand Kitsuné has opened a cafe next to its boutique in Silver Lake, Los Angeles, both with minimalist interiors featuring white oak and stainless steel.
The interiors of the new Cafe Kitsuné and the renovated Maison Kitsuné store were designed by co-founder Masaya Kuroki to reflect the brand’s French-Japanese culture as well as the West Coast setting.
The Cafe Kitsuné interior includes a mural by Jeffrey Sinich that imagines the space as an old-school market
Facing Sunset Boulevard on the east side of the city, this is the brand’s fourth cafe in North America – following locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Vancouver – and its first in LA.
“A sprawling city of diverse findings, from cutting-edge restaurants to pockets of art and architecture second to none, LA has lent design inspiration and a backdrop to several campaigns for the fashion house,” said the Kitsuné team.
White oak tables and surfaces are set against stainless steel counters and panelling for a minimalist look
“Now, it’s the perfect setting for Café Kitsuné, a physical extension of the brand’s Franco-Japanese DNA, and reinvention of the classic Parisian cafe and wine bar experience with a Japanese twist,” they added.
The building’s red-tile exterior and poured concrete flooring were preserved, and hand-painted signage by Californian artist Jeffrey Sincich was added over the large street-facing windows.
Burnt orange dining chairs and upholstered benches highlight the colours of the mural
Inside the 700-square-foot (65-square-metre) cafe, white oak tables and brushed stainless-steel counters feature alongside burnt orange dining chairs and upholstered benches.
Another Sincich mural covers the full length of a wall, offering “a whimsical take on Café Kitsuné’s standard appearance” and presenting the space as an “old-school market”.
A speaker system by Japanese audio company Rotel was installed in the cafe “to provide a top-notch sound experience for customers”, according to Kitsuné.
Next door in the boutique, a similar material palette is used for elements including a built-in storage and display unit across the back wall.
The existing Maison Kitsuné boutique next door has also received a refresh
White oak forms the framing, shelves and doors that lead to the stock and fitting rooms, while ribbed stainless-steel sheets provide a backdrop for the items on show.
More oak was used for the minimalist service counter and panelling behind, and a bright blue table sits in the centre to add a pop of colour.
White oak and stainless steel are repeated in this space to create a visual connection with the cafe
Kitsuné was founded by 2002 by Kuroki and Gildas Loaëc and encompasses the fashion brand, Maison Kitsuné; a music label, Kitsuné Musique; and its line of cafes, bars and restaurants.
Spotify chief executive Daniel Ek said in an X post on Friday that Apple’s changes represent a “new low, even for them.” This cam after Spotify released a statement calling out the iPhone maker for acting like “they don’t think the rules apply to them.”
After sitting with our legal team to parse through the fine print of Apple’s DMA announcement (that took a while), which is, at best vague and misleading, I wanted to share my thoughts.
While Apple has behaved badly for years, what they did yesterday represents a new low, even…
Apple announced it will for the first time allow developers to create and distribute apps on third-party marketplaces once it releases iOS 17.4. The changes will only take effect in the EU, which has forced Apple to comply with the Digital Markets Act — a European law aimed at curtailing tech giants’ hold over the digital economy.
While this may sound like a victory for app developers since it will open up more channels for distribution, many are complaining that Apple will not only retain control over which third-party marketplaces end up on its system but will also charge fees for downloads on those other marketplaces.
“A masterclass in distortion”
Ek saidApple’s reaction to the Digital Markets Act is “a masterclass in distortion.”
Under Apple’s new changes, apps with over one million downloads will need to pay a “core technology fee” for “each first annual install per year.” That puts an app like Spotify — which Ek said has more than 100 million downloads in the EU — in an “untenable situation” because it drastically increasesthe cost of acquiring new customers.
In a statement, Spotify described the fee as “extortion, plain and simple.” The company says the feewill likely hurt developers, potential start-ups, and those offering free apps who might not have the funds to pay Apple — especially if their app suddenly goes viral.
That means that even a multibillion-dollar company like Spotify will need to “stick with the status quo” to remain profitable, Ek said.
For its part, Apple said in a statement that it seeks to support developers, including Spotify, which it acknowledged as the world’s “most successful” music streaming app.
“The changes we’re sharing for apps in the European Union give developers choice — with new options to distribute iOS apps and process payments,” a spokesperson for Apple told Business Insider by email. “Every developer can choose to stay on the same terms in place today. And under the new terms, more than 99% of developers would pay the same or less to Apple.”
While Apple’s tight hold over the iOS ecosystem has helped it reap billions in revenue, it has also caused it to run afoul of regulators who believe its tactics stifle innovation and suppress new entrants. Ek, too, is a longtime critic of Apple’s tactics and has previously said the company has a ways to go before it becomes an “open and fair platform.”
Apple’s App Store change not only falls short of that ideal, but “mocks the spirit of the law and the lawmakers who wrote it,” Ek said.
The good news for him is that Apple’s new changes aren’t set in stone until they pass muster with the EU. And Ek said he’s hoping the EU “recognizes this for exactly what it is and stands firm and doesn’t let their work over the years all be for nothing.”
Newegg is now selling refurbished computer parts and gadgets.
The online retailer could give Apple a run for its money in pre-owned devices.
Apple officially began selling refurbished iPhones in 2016, reports say.
Thanks for signing up!
Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you’re on the go.
There’s a new online marketplace for used Apple products.
On January 25, electronics retailer Newegg launched Newegg Refreshed — which sells refurbished tech gadgets, including a selection of Apple MacBooks, Watches, iPhones, and more.
It inspects, cleans, and tests items before they’re available for purchase, and if customers aren’t satisfied, they have 90 days to return the device.
Still, while it might give Apple a run for its money in selling the brand’s pre-owned devices, shoppers currently won’t find massive bargains compared to Apple’s own site. The tech giant has its own space for selling pre-owned tech, and prices are similar to Newegg for most devices. For example, a 2022 13.3-inch MacBook Pro costs $989 on Newegg compared to $999 for the same model on Apple’s site.
But Newegg does have listings for refurbished units of the new iPhone 15, while the iPhone 12 is the most recent model Apple had on sale as of Friday morning. The tech giant began selling used iPhones in 2016, 9to5Mac reported. Supplies vary based on availability for both sites.
You can buy the latest iPhone on Newegg as of Friday morning.
Newegg; Apple
For those who prefer to use tech from outside the Apple family, Newegg has added refurbished options for computer parts and gadgets as part of its Refreshed program.
And if you’re still not finding the right device on Newegg or Apple, electronics giant Best Buy also offers refurbished items at a discounted price in its outlets department.
The Sims has been allowing players to act out their architecture and interior design fantasies for more than two decades. Jane Englefield finds out how the makers of the iconic life-simulation video game keep up with shifting trends.
“People laugh when I mention playing The Sims, but it was hugely significant in terms of spatial planning and was a key part of how and why I have ended up in the line of interior design work that I have,” interiors stylist and editor Rory Robertson told Dezeen.
“The Sims offered people the opportunity to get a feel for design,” he reflected. “You could be as extravagant and outrageous, or as briefed and restricted as you liked.”
The Sims was first released in 2000 with three sequels since developed
Created in 2000 by American game designer Will Wright, The Sims is a video game where players make human characters – or “sims” – and build their virtual houses and lives from scratch, catering to their needs and desires.
With four iterations of the main game and dozens of themed expansion packs focussing on topics such as university, parenthood and cottage living, The Sims is one of the best-selling video-game franchises of all time.
“It’s really accessible”
Architecture and interior design has been a major part of The Sims experience from the very beginning.
Having previously created the city-building game SimCity in 1989 – which itself has been credited with inspiring a generation of urban planners – Wright was originally motivated to develop The Sims after losing his home in the Oakland firestorm of 1991 in California.
Design remained a core part of the offering, however, and the interface features tools that allow players to instantly build structures and decorate and furnish them from an extensive inventory of items.
Players can choose from a wide inventory of decor and furnishing options
“It’s really accessible, so I think a lot of people get into it without even realising that they’re playing with architecture and playing with space,” said video-games expert and historian Holly Nielsen.
“While it was like catnip for design budding minds, it was also just a wonderful opportunity for procrastination and frivolity for people who aren’t particularly confident or tuned in to interiors or architecture,” echoed Robertson.
Since the original The Sims, a broad set of options has been available for players to suit their tastes and imaginations.
Possibilities have ranged from minimalist bungalows filled with neutral furniture to more outlandish dwellings, such as castles defined by Dalmatian-print wallpaper or hot tubs parked in the middle of multiple living rooms.
“We’ll take any source”
The team behind these possibilities described how they ensure that the architecture and interior design options stay feeling fresh and contemporary with each new game in the series.
“Since we’re a game about real life, anytime we step outside our door we have inspiration by just looking at what’s in our immediate environment,” game designer Jessica Croft told Dezeen.
Art director Mike O’Connor added that he and his team scour the real world and the web for up-to-date references.
“We’ll take any source,” he said. “We’re looking for patterns. If we start to see round furniture, or bouclé, or whatever the trend is, [we ask] has it already gone?”
“The internet doesn’t scrub old ideas. So you know, it’s seeing if there’s a trend, is it sticking, does it apply to what we’re doing now?”
The in-game design possibilities have evolved over time to keep up with trends
Furniture and appliances within the game are regularly revised over time to reflect cultural and technological progression in the real world, Croft explained.
“In Sims 2 [released in 2004] I would not be surprised if there was a landline phone – and there definitely isn’t a landline phone in my own house, or Sims 4,” she said.
“Even things like VR [virtual reality] didn’t really exist back in The Sims 2 days, so things like VR consoles, computers – we just added dual-monitor computers, and LEDs are now in most households,” she continued.
That in turn sees the team take a surprisingly deep dive into how interiors are changing, O’Connor acknowledged.
“Over the life of this game, you see an evolution,” he said. “Electronics are probably the biggest category [of change]. Even just how people use TVs, how they place them, has changed.”
The idea, says Croft, is to ensure that The Sims players feel a close connection to the world they are building for their sims.
“The most fun thing for me is being able to allow players to craft stories that are relatable to them,” she said. “So, looking for opportunities to make players feel seen.”
“An element of freedom and fantasy-building”
But, as Nielsen points out, there is an additional aspect to the game’s architecture and design possibilities that is central to its appeal.
“In one sense, it’s reflective of society, but in another way, it’s aspirational,” she said.
“There’s an element of freedom and fantasy-building to playing The Sims,” she continued. “Homeownership is a thing that a lot of us will not get to do.”
As in real life, everything you build or buy in The Sims has a cost.
However, unlike in real life, punching “motherlode” into The Sims cheat-code bar will immediately add a healthy 50,000 simoleons to your sim’s bank account, putting that luxury sofa easily within reach.
The game offers people “the opportunity to get a feel for design”
That possibility remains central to Robertson’s nostalgia for playing The Sims as a young would-be interior designer.
“Once you double-clicked The Sims graphic on your Microsoft desktop, a multi-roomed mansion cost nothing to design,” he said.
This aspirational element has become an increasingly large part of The Sims’ commercial model over the years.
The Sims 4, as an example, is accompanied by 19 purchasable “Stuff Packs” that expand the options of items available to buy, including “Perfect Patio”, “Cool Kitchen” and one based on the products of Milan fashion label Moschino.
And the latest of the more extensive expansion packs is For Rent, which allows players to build rental houses where some sims are landlords and others are tenants.
Within the game, landlords encounter various true-to-life issues, including the potential for toxic mould build-up in their properties – although, unlike in the real world, the mould feature can be toggled on and off.
For Nielsen, that traces back to a significant foundational element of the game’s widespread appeal – as well as being one of the reasons it has had such strong interior-design influence.
“It didn’t feel like it was aiming for anyone,” she explained. “One of the things that people bring up a lot is that it has a very female player base.”
“For me, it was a big turning point – it was getting to create the spaces but also play around with the people inside them. It felt like a socially acceptable way to play dollhouses.”
Dezeen In Depth If you enjoy reading Dezeen’s interviews, opinions and features, subscribe to Dezeen In Depth. Sent on the last Friday of each month, this newsletter provides a single place to read about the design and architecture stories behind the headlines.
For years, Apple has been insistent that it needs control over its App Store and other key parts of its iPhone ecosystem, even in the face of increasing complaints from regulators.
But now, for the first time, it is going to grudgingly open up many of those elements — because of regulatory pressure.
Important to know: The changes Apple announced Thursday only apply in Europe because of a new law that goes into effect in March.
Apple will allow developers to create and distribute apps without using the company’s App Store.
Apple’s App Store now will now take a cut of up to 17%, plus another 3% fee, for payments made on apps distributed on its App Store. That’s down from a long-held maximum commission of 30%.
Developers who use a non-Apple store won’t have to give Apple any fee at all, except for apps that are downloaded more than a million times a year. Those apps — along with apps distributed through Apple’s App Store — will pay a fee of 0.50 euros for each download over a million.
Other key changes include the ability for users to set a default web browser other than Apple’s Safari browser. And for developers to use Apple’s near-field communication tech, so users can make contactless payments with their phones without using Apple’s Apple Pay and Apple Wallet system.
In its language announcing the changes, Apple makes it clear that it thinks many of these things are a bad idea.
“The new options for processing payments and downloading apps on iOS open new avenues for malware, fraud and scams, illicit and harmful content, and other privacy and security threats,” the company says.
It also says it will try to help customers by offering some kind of buffer between them and outside developers. That includes a system to “notarize” all apps, regardless of whether they come from Apple’s store or somewhere else, “focused on platform integrity and protecting users.”
And how this actually rolls out is still to be determined. In part, that’s because Apple is still appealing one piece of the new rules’ implementation.And in part because of choices both consumers and developers will need to make.
For instance: Users who do want to buy something via a store other than Apple’s App Store will encounter this screen, making it very clear that if they hand over their credit card info to someone other than Apple, then Apple won’t be able to help them if something bad happens.
A version of the screen Apple App Store users will see if they want to pay for things without using Apple’s App Store.
Apple
If you’ve used an iPhone app in the last few years, you’ve seen a similar screen that told you the app’s developer would like to track your movement around the web. That screen requires you to actively say you want to do that.
Not surprisingly, most people have not opted into that for most apps. And that change has roiled the entire digital advertising industry, including Apple rival Meta. Faced with a warning like that, it may not be surprising to learn that many iPhone users end up sticking around with Apple’s system instead of going with an outside developer’s store.
And developers with very popular apps will have to figure out what Apple’s new fee system means for them
Will any of this come to the US or anywhere outside Europe? No, Apple says, because “this is not the safest system for our users.” Translation: If you want us to do this anywhere else, you’ll need a new law.
That could come in the future. In the meantime, Thursday’s news is a milestone for Apple and regulators: Proof that if pushed hard enough, one of the world’s most powerful companies can change things it said it never wanted to change.
Is the skin on your face and body feeling itchy? This could be an annoying and uncomfortable side effect of winter dryness or something else entirely. Read on to uncover the root cause of your issues and learn about skin care solutions to ease the discomfort you may feel from dry, itchy skin.
What Causes Itchy Skin?
Figuring out the cause of your itchy skin can be a bit of a scavenger hunt since there are all sorts of possible culprits. Some of these issues are environmental — like seasonal changes (especially in winter), bug bites or irritants like poison ivy — while others are allergic reactions to things like foods or animals. Others still can be blamed on skin conditions like dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis.
Weather
Itchy, dry skin is very commonly caused by weather and environment. In the winter, when the air gets dry and cold, we often exacerbate things by turning up the heat and taking long, hot baths. This combination can do a number on the skin. And it’s not only in the winter. Any seasonal change can disrupt the epidermis and lead to inflammation. A vacation to the arid desert can suddenly rob the skin of moisture, as can hot sun (and sunburns) or other abrupt changes in air temperature and moisture levels.
Allergies
Another common issue that can show up on the skin is an allergic reaction. Certain foods and medications, pet dander and fabrics could send your skin into the red zone. It may feel itchy and dry and can also develop hives, rashes or a burning feeling. Other symptoms like swelling of the face or airways can be dangerous and you should consult with your doctor if you’re concerned.
Age
Wisdom comes with age. Unfortunately, so does dry skin. Over time, the skin’s stores of hyaluronic acid diminish as a result of the body’s natural aging processes. This naturally-occurring substance, which attracts and retains moisture, is crucial for keeping skin soft and supple. Without lipids or sebum, dry skin cannot stay lubricated, leading to the skin barrier becoming compromised. Since skin also becomes thinner with age, this can be a recipe for disaster.
Other Lifestyle Factors
Skin that feels or looks dry can also be caused by lifestyle factors. Dehydration can happen when you’re not consuming enough fluids, and this can show up on your face. Everyone is susceptible to dehydrated skin because, unlike dry skin (which is lacking in oil), dehydrated skin (which is lacking in water) is caused by external factors like what you eat and drink.
Not enough liquid in your diet can lead to dehydrated skin. This can show up as dark circles under the eyes, flaky patches, dull skin and sensitivity. An unhealthy diet can also lead to dehydrated skin. Fresh fruits and vegetables, plus healthy fats like wild-caught salmon, nuts, avocado, olive oil, eggs and meat from grass-fed animals, can make a big difference. These foods include essential fatty acids and mono and polyunsaturated fats that contribute to both your skin and your overall health.
Skin Conditions
Some common conditions that cause the skin to feel dry and itchy include dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema. Dermatitis can exist in many forms and can show up on the skin as dryness, itching, rashes and sometimes swelling. Causes include environmental triggers, stress, hormonal changes and irritation from things like detergents and certain ingredients in beauty products, contact with irritating plants like poison oak, poison ivy and certain grasses.
Eczema is a chronic skin disorder that includes itchy, scaly rashes. Causes aren’t easy to pin down (many blame irritants that can cause the immune system to overreact). Triggers can include stress, food sensitivities, temperature changes and contact with certain chemicals or preservatives.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes skin discoloration and irritation in the form of scaly, dry and itchy skin on the hands, feet, neck, scalp and face, among other areas of the body.
If you’re concerned that your dry, itchy skin is more than just a reaction to the weather or inherent factors, relying solely on skin care or skin care products may not be the solution. We recommend seeing your doctor for diagnosis and products to help treat these conditions.
Products To Treat Dry, Itchy Skin
If your dry skin is not due to a medical condition, it can still cause discomfort as well as further issues. Dry skin can become irritated, especially when it’s accompanied by itching. Skin on the face and body can become raw and red, and can even crack. This is why it’s important to treat dry skin and to make sure it’s done with the right products.
Body
Since harsh product ingredients trigger dry and itchy skin, it’s important to be aware of what you’re using on and near your body. From laundry detergents to body washes, lotions, facial cleansers and treatments, there are lots of opportunities to make matters worse. At Eminence Organic Skin Care, we’ve always been committed to creating products that contain no harsh chemicals.
When it comes to the body, removing dry skin with a scrub or exfoliant is the first step. Once the skin is buffed and the top layer removed, it’s much easier for the moisturizing and hydrating products to get absorbed. Our Stone Crop Revitalizing Body Scrub is a great option for full body exfoliation. It uses both natural cane sugar granules and mineral-rich sea salt to exfoliate the skin, plus stone crop for moisture and antioxidants from lemon peel and green tea.
Our Coconut Sugar Scrub is another product that uses sugar cane granules to exfoliate and buff the top layers of skin, while coconut oil deeply hydrates and replenishes.
Once the dead skin has been buffed away, the skin on the body is ready for moisture. The Stone Crop Body Lotion is formulated with stone crop, lemon and bioflavonoids to enrich, support and moisturize the skin’s appearance.
To combat itchy skin at night, our Monoi Age Corrective Night Body Cream does the trick. This ultra-rich body lotion locks in moisture to reveal firm, velvety looking skin by morning. Lightly fragranced with monoi, this body cream helps alleviate itchiness due to dry skin.
For something a little more lightweight that is still heavy on the moisture, try our Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Body Lotion. It contains aloe, panthenol and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate, preserve moisture in the skin and protect the skin’s moisture barrier. All of this, plus a delicious scent and creamy feel.
And finally, if you want to leave it to the professionals and get a good baseline moisture reboot that you can extend at home, a body wrap is a great option. The Mango Enzyme Body Wrap contains active enzymes and vitamins that infuse the skin with hydration and gently exfoliate to leave a refreshed look. You’ll leave the spa with skin that feels smooth and hydrated.
Face
As mentioned, dry, itchy skin on the face can be traced back to a number of causes, but if you’re looking to add moisture and bring the softness, bounce and glow back to your dry complexion, we have some suggestions.
Before nourishing the skin with a moisturizer, an exfoliating treatment can help remove the top layer of dry, itchy skin and make it easier for your products to absorb. Avoid exfoliating if the skin is irritated or feeling sensitive, but if you’re just a little tight and rough, a gentle exfoliator is a good first step. We love the Stone Crop Oxygenating Fizzofoliant for this. With its light fizzing action, this revitalizing formula gently invigorates the skin and removes impurities to reveal a beautiful, brighter-looking complexion that’s ready for a dose of hydration.
Another treatment that will help get the skin on your face ready to receive the moisture is our Calm Skin Chamomile Exfoliating Peel. It contains chamomile, to balance the look of skin, and lactic acid, which exfoliates and offers intense hydration. Plus, it’s gentle enough to use up to three times a week.
Oil-based ointments, creams and lotions that are rich in essential fatty acids can compensate for dry skin’s lack of oil and lipids. They lubricate the skin’s surface as well as fortify the skin’s moisture barrier to replenish and seal in much-needed moisture. “When choosing moisturizer for dry skin, aim for a heavier formula and look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid … ” explains Dr. Hooman Khorasani, a quadruple board-certified dermatologic and cosmetic surgeon in New York City. “Other ingredients to look for include shea butter and lactic acid, which provide hydration and exfoliation.”
Our Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer includes deeply moisturizing coconut oil and shea butter. Shea butter, in particular, is an excellent emollient for the skin, as it’s high in triglycerides and fatty acids which restore and retain moisture.
Some other deeply hydrating options include the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator. It contains powerful ingredients like panthenol, which reinforces skin hydration and prevents moisture loss by protecting the skin moisture barrier and our Botanical Hyaluronic Acid Complex, a unique blend of multi-weight hyaluronic acid and marshmallow root that deeply hydrates and preserves moisture in the skin. The Firm Skin Acai Moisturizer is a nourishing option for aging skin. It contains deeply hydrating shea butter and seabuckthorn berry oil for maximum moisture.
If you’re looking to target the neck and face overnight, use the Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream for Face and Neck as it reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles, so you’ll wake up with a more rejuvenated appearance. Customer, Dana C., is a fan, saying in a review on our website: “This cream … is my favorite. First, the texture is so soft and smooth, thick but not too thick, it smells heavenly, goes on and absorbs perfectly and moisturizes so well, my skin is still soft in the morning. I’m almost 60, was a sun worshiper in my youth and have never found a moisturizer that worked well until this one.”
Facial moisturizer should be applied both morning and night. Applying it on damp skin (after a spritz of a mist or toner or just out of the shower) can help the moisture absorb more efficiently.
Are you looking to add some hydration to your skin and not sure which products will work best for your unique complexion? Visit your local Eminence Organics Spa Partner to find out how.
The Houthis on Wednesday launched their first attack in nearly a week on commercial shipping.
US forces have been carrying out a handful of preemptive strikes against the rebels lately.
The strikes have hit multiple anti-ship missiles that were prepared to launch and posed a threat.
Thanks for signing up!
Access your favorite topics in a personalized feed while you’re on the go.
The US military has changed tactics in how it deals with Houthi attacks on commercial shipping, now conducting preemptive strikes against the Iran-backed rebels regularly, and it appears to be having an effect.
A US Navy warship on Wednesday shot down two anti-ship ballistic missiles fired by the Houthis at the M/V Maersk Detroit, a container ship that’s flagged, owned, and operated by the US, while a third missile landed in the water, according to a statement from US Central Command, or CENTCOM.
This marked the Houthis’ first confirmed missile launch in nearly a week, although it’s not for a lack of trying. US forces have been consistently blowing up their missiles before the rebels even have a chance to launch them.
The tactic shift happened last week. On Jan. 18, the Houthi rebels fired two anti-ship ballistic missiles at a US-owned and Greek-operated tanker. CENTCOM said this marked their third attack on commercial ships in as many days. Since then, the US has carried out at least four rounds of preemptive strikes against Houthi anti-ship missiles that were aimed at either the southern Red Sea or the Gulf of Aden, two key routes for global shipping.
USS Dwight D. Eisenhower conducts flight operations in response to increased Iranian-backed Houthi malign behavior in the Red Sea, Jan. 22, 2024.
US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kaitlin Watt
In each instance — on Jan. 19, 20, 22, and 24 — the Pentagon said its forces hit the missiles while they were “prepared to launch” and presented an immediate “threat” to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region. The military asserted in all four cases that it destroyed the Houthi missiles in “self-defense” and its actions make international waters off the coast of Yemen safer to transit.
The US military’s preemptive — and unilateral — strikes on the Houthi missiles represent a notable shift in tactics since Washington first opted to strike the rebels on Jan. 11 alongside British forces.
Prior to that escalated response, Western militaries had spent months shooting down Houthi threats without taking any retaliatory kinetic action inside Yemen. After intercepting threats ultimately proved insufficient, Washington and its allies then issued warnings that the rebels would face serious consequences if they didn’t stop their attacks on international shipping. They weren’t deterred, and military action eventually followed. The Houthi rebels are, however, still trying to launch attacks.
Amid the US military’s multiple preemptive strikes, American and British forces on Monday carried out another round of joint strikes, targeting Houthi sites and facilities across Yemen.
Tribal supporters of Yemen’s Houthis hold up their firearms during a protest against recent U.S.-led strikes on Houthi targets, near Sanaa, Yemen on Jan. 14, 2024.
REUTERS/Khaled Abdullah
The US assesses it has “destroyed or degraded” more than 25 missile launch and deployment facilities, over 20 missiles, and also hit drone, radar, weapons storage, and air surveillance capabilities “with good effects” since the initial round of strikes earlier this month, Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said during a Tuesday briefing.
Ryder noted that the US has conducted several “self-defense strikes” over the past week when facing “an imminent threat or an anticipated launch,” which he indicated will remain a focus for the Pentagon.
He acknowledged, however, that the Houthis — who boast a formidable arsenal of Iranian-provided weaponry — do still retain “some” of their capabilities. How much, exactly, is unclear, although Pentagon officials estimate the rebels maintain a majority of their ability to launch missiles and drones at ships, per The New York Times.
“It’s not out of the question that there could be additional strikes,” Ryder explained at the recent briefing. “But again, our goal here is to ensure that the Red Sea is safe and secure for international shipping and mariners. That is our only goal.”
There are various reasons why noise-cancelling headphones should be a must for all students these days. Despite their higher price tag than regular headphones, they are still a good choice for any student due to all of their qualities and ability to help you keep focused whenever necessary. Before buying noise cancelling headphones, you should know a few things about their difference from the common option; how they will improve performance and help health in work—costs are reasonable options for better study available below.
How Does Noise Cancellation Work?
There are various reasons why noise-cancelling headphones should be a must for all students these days. Despite their higher price tag than regular headphones, they are still a good choice for any student due to all of their qualities and ability to help you keep focused whenever necessary.
Before buying noise cancelling headphones, you should know a few things about their difference from the common option; how they will improve performance and help health in work—costs are reasonable options for better study available below.
How Does Noise Cancellation Work?
Built-in featured microphones in noise-cancelling audio devices study the nearby ambient sound waves and generate impulses that negate (cancel) such surrounding sounds. For the elimination of background noise, the device has a built-in microphone that produces sound waves opposite to those emitted. Thus, the best environment for noise cancellation is when there are constant levels of background audio within a low to moderate range.
Now, think about how your speech varies in pitch. Too many sudden pitch shifts occur, making it challenging for any noise-cancelling audio system to evaluate and understand these variations. As a result, some sounds are audible to you while others are muted.
Are Noise-Cancelling Headphones Effective for Studying?
Maintaining team members’ productivity is essential, as you can observe by visiting any number of workplaces all over the world. Giving employees free coffee or tea to keep them going is something that most people tend to think about. Some businesses provide complimentary gym memberships as a way to improve employee health and, therefore, productivity. However, isn’t it the duty of the business to guarantee worker productivity? Just as it is not the job of the professor or instructor to make you productive in the classroom, neither is it their job to make you productive outside of it. You have to take part of the responsibility for yourself. Whether you are a student or an employee in an office, you need to monitor your output. It is your responsibility to figure out a means to work around a distracting environment. Students need to figure out how to block out their siblings’ TV noises while they’re at home. When living in a shared flat or dorm, students have to prioritize their academics while also taking care of their housemates. You cannot expect everyone to remain silent or to leave all the time, even if it is true that people should be mindful of one another.
How To Find Budget-Friendly Noise-Cancelling Headphones?
The following are the primary factors to think about when choosing the best and most affordable noise-cancelling headphones:
Budget
First, determine how much money you are willing to spend when purchasing noise-cancelling headphones. Value-priced noise-cancelling headphones continue to improve, meaning that consumers can purchase good-quality headphones for around $100. But the higher-spec models, which are significantly better in terms of performance and build quality, start at around $200—and can sometimes go up to several hundred dollars more.
Fit (comfort)
The headphones that you buy should correctly fit your head. They have to be nice and snug without being too so. The best headphones are those that you can wear continuously for many hours without feeling the need to take short breaks.
Durability
Look for models that have sturdy materials in case you are looking for a headset with high durability.
Relate Features And Performance With The Price
Whatever size of budget you can afford, choose the best-sounding headphone that comes with great features, noise cancellation, and call quality.
Return policy
It’s crucial to buy headphones from a shop that has a solid return policy in case you develop buyer’s remorse. Some buyers may decide to buy both models and then give them a couple of days to get along and take back the one.
Conclusion
With the devices we have already mentioned, you will not get a noise cancellation type if you buy normal headphones. It will not happen. To those of you who have to study in noisy environments, noise-cancelling headphones should definitely be on your shopping lists.
They help maintain order, and listening to relaxing music helps you focus more. Although you may be easily led astray by music, using noise-cancelling headphones that provide ambient white background noises can allow the outside sounds not to hinder your success.
Stools from local designer Caleb Ferris and design firm Prowl Studio were among the works displayed at a San Francisco exhibition centred around contemporary Bay Area design.
The Works in Progress show displayed stools, chairs and other furniture from local designers to highlight the diversity in methods and backgrounds of an evolving Bay Area design scene.
The recent Works in Progress exhibition held in San Francisco highlighted Bay Area designers
“As the Bay Area creative scene evolves in real-time, there are boundless possibilities for how it might bloom,” said curators and designers Kate Greenberg, Kelley Perumbeti, and Sahra Jajarmikhayat in a statement.
“For now, we are here to acknowledge its depth and say: it’s a work in progress.”
Caleb Ferris showed a duck-footed poplar stool
The team distributed the exhibition’s pieces across metallic platforms supported by foundations of bricks.
Pieces ranged from a curvacious, duck-footed poplar wood stool marked with paint and silver leaf by Caleb Ferris, to Prowl Studio’s cubic stainless steel stool wrapped in a 3D knit cover.
Prowl Studio wrapped a stainless steel stool in a 3D knit cover
“Across a range of materials, forms, and functions, the participants have found a groove in the original, the introspective, and the off-center,” said the team.
Designer Ido Yoshimoto displayed a sculptural side table made of old-growth redwood and finished in a dark red textured hue. The table consists of a geometric, curved corner that runs into a darkened raw edge.
Designer Ido Yoshimoto showed a sculptural old-growth redwood side table with a raw edge
Studio Ahead created a fuzzy Merino wool stool informed by northern California rock formations, which contrasted with the smooth surface of a glass stool by curators Jajarmikhayat and Greenberg.
Other works included a baltic plywood side table with grooved sides and small, chunky sky blue legs by NJ Roseti and a white oak chair topped with a wild fleece and suede cushion by Rafi Ajl of studio Long Confidence.
Office of Tangible Space showed a flat-legged chair designed in collaboration with CNC design studio Thirdkind Studio, while Duncan Oja ofOja Design displayed a charred white oak stool with an organic, rough-sawn profile.
Fyrn Studio showed a charcoal-black hardwood stool with aluminium hardware created with replaceable parts and studio Medium Small and designer Yvonne Mouser both displayed chairs made of ash, one blackened and the other not, supported by bases of elegant, simple lines.
Studio Ahead and Kate Greenberg and Sahra Jajarmikhayat made stools with rock-like forms
“As simple as it sounds, the soul of this exhibition is in the representation of physical craft and the people behind it. It’s important to shine a light on this vibrant slice of the Bay Area that is not always as visible amidst a city focused on the digital realm,” said Perumbeti.
“There’s something really exciting brewing in this community that is just beginning to get teased out,” said Greenberg.
NJ Roseti created a baltic plywood side table supported by light blue cubic legs
Works in Progress was part of the wider San Francisco Art Week, which highlights art and design from the city and took place from 13-21 January.
Works in Progress took place at the American Industrial Center in San Francisco from 18 to 23 January 2023. See Dezeen Events Guide for more architecture and design events around the world.
And with so many options and streaming services often changing their pricing and content, users need to carefully select what they value most — whether that means critically acclaimed TV or the ability to watch both movies and live sports.
Using data from streaming search engine Reelgood, we put the major US streaming services — with the exception of Discovery+ — into greater context. This includes which service provides users with the biggest bang for their buck in terms of movies and TV shows available per dollar spent, as well as the sheer volume of content across these libraries.
Here are the most important things to think about when subscribing to a streaming service:
