The Kansas City Chiefs have selected **Populous**, a global architectural design firm based in Kansas City, as the lead design architect for their new practice facility and headquarters in Olathe, Kansas. The facility is set to open in 2031.

**Populous** will design a state-of-the-art headquarters that enhances football operations, supports business growth, and reflects the Chiefs' brand and championship standard. They will also master plan the surrounding mixed-use development, focusing on layout, transportation, and visitor experience.

"Populous has long been a leader in designing world-class sports venues, and we're excited to partner with them on our new day-to-day home," said Chiefs President Mark Donovan. The firm's expertise in creating high-performance environments for players, coaches, and staff was key to their selection.

Sherri Privitera, Senior Principal at Populous, stated: "This facility will reflect the caliber of the Chiefs' brand, culture, and championship standard while creating an environment where the team can continue to pursue excellence."

The $300 million project, located on 155 acres near College Boulevard and Ridgeview Road, will include the training facility, headquarters, and a mixed-use development. Renderings and further announcements are expected in the coming months.

Populous to Also Serve as Master Planning Architect for Surrounding Mixed-Use Development

Chiefs Tap Populous to Design New $300M Training Facility in Olathe

Two architecture firms that are leading designers in the increasingly costly and complex realms of health care and higher education facilities are joining together.

CannonDesign, one of the world’s largest employee-owned architecture and planning firms, is acquiring Ennead Architects, a leader in education, health care, and civic projects. Ennead will continue its practice as a distinct unit within CannonDesign and retain the firm’s offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Shanghai.

**This merger is the seventh and largest so far for CannonDesign**, which employs some 1,600 designers and consultants across 20 offices in North America. One of the company’s goals is to bring down costs and deliver better projects by taking a broader view of a client’s needs over decades, not just project by project.

The acquisition gives CannonDesign its first office in Asia, where Ennead has designed several large-scale civic, cultural, and multiuse buildings, including ByteDance’s Houhai Center in Shenzhen and the Shanghai Astronomy Museum.

Ennead is a New York–based firm that grew out of the Polshek Partnership, a firm founded by designer and Columbia University architecture dean James Polshek in 1963.

The two firms overlap most clearly in the fields of health care and education. Both Cannon and Ennead have designed projects for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, among other hospitals, as well as multiple higher-ed campus plans and research institutions.

The firms are also members of the American Institute of Architects’ Large Firm Roundtable, a forum of the leaders of the 60 largest architecture firms in the US. Discussions at the forum highlighting a shared sense of culture led to the acquisition, which will be finalized within 45 days.

“When I joined the Polshek Partnership, we were 60 people, and I purposely went to a firm at that scale,” says Molly McGowan, a partner at Ennead. “Watching us grow to 200 but maintain the values of knowing everybody when you’re only 60 — we’re now seeing the same opportunity of joining a firm like Cannon, because they managed to hold on to the values of a smaller 200-person firm.”

![The Resnick Sustainability Center, designed by Yazdani Studio of CannonDesign, opened at the California Institute of Technology in 2024.](https://designremotejobs.com/images/resnick-sustainability-center.jpg)
*Photographer: Michael Moran*

CannonDesign CEO Brad Lukanic said that its acquisitions are part of a strategy of transitioning from a “3 to 30” relationship with its clients. Typically an architecture firm might spend one year working with a client on a design and two years as the project is being built, whereas a 30-year timeframe reflects an ongoing relationship. Lukanic said these relationships will be crucial to addressing problems such as the rising cost of health care and changing needs for higher education.

Ennead’s practice has a similarly long-term constitution: The firm has worked with New York University for more than 25 years, for example, with Ennead delivering 10 campus buildings so far.

“What that allows us to do is to build an incredibly deep knowledge of who they are as an institution. They can pick up the phone and say, ‘Hey, can I just get your opinion about that?’” says McGowan.

For its part, the merger gives Ennead access to experts and resources for which designers would otherwise turn to consultants. Last year CannonDesign acquired The Clarient Group, a smart-buildings company that helps engineers and architects (including Ennead) to incorporate digital systems and other technology needs into a project from the earliest stages. Bringing the companies together “provides the design teams even greater access to that talent, versus the traditional architect-consultant relationship, because they are now all part of the team,” Lukanic says.

The acquisition marks the second significant transition for Ennead, whose name refers to the nine partners who renamed the firm following the departure of Polshek in 2010. The firm (as Polshek Partnership) won the AIA’s Architecture Firm award in 1992; Polshek himself won the AIA Gold Medal in 2018, four years before his death.

CannonDesign has earned scores of industry accolades, including the AIA national design awards for health care and education in 2025. As a privately held company CannonDesign did not disclose the purchase amount for the acquisition.

The acquisition of New York’s Ennead Architects is the seventh and largest for CannonDesign, giving the firm a new office in Shanghai.

CannonDesign's Global Expansion: How a Merger with Ennead Architects Unlocks New Markets and Long-Term Client Strategies

Sports apparel giant Under Armour has issued a cease and desist notice to the independent streetwear brand Vice Lair, alleging that its logo bears an **undeniable similarity** to Under Armour's trademarked identity. This move highlights the ongoing tensions in the design industry, where large brands often target smaller businesses, creating a hostile environment for newcomers.

Vice Lair's owner sought opinions from designers on Reddit, questioning whether the complaint could escalate into a full legal battle. The discussion divided the community, with many rallying behind the small business, while others pointed to Under Armour's history of success in similar **trademark disputes**.

Under Armour claims that Vice Lair's logo—a barbed-wire-inspired graphic—is too similar to its interlocking 'U' and 'A' motif, stating that it could cause consumer confusion due to the **fame of Under Armour's marks**. The notice argues that this similarity might lead people to believe Vice Lair's products are associated with or approved by Under Armour.

Redditors strongly contested these allegations. One supporter wrote, "No. Your logo has unique proportions, curves, and a differentiating connection. Your logo looks sharp and angular; theirs looks smooth and planted. Even from a distance, it looks different." However, another user warned, "Would not risk. Like at all. Under Armour sued a bunch of companies for having Armour in the name, like 'Armorina' and won… when you look at the trademark, it lists a 'mark that consists of stylized letters "U" and "A"'. This fits that brief and could lose you way too much money to even want to fight this."

This case serves as a critical reminder for designers and brands about the importance of **originality and legal considerations** in logo creation. For more insights into design disputes, explore stories like Ferrari's logo battle or iconic brands with surprisingly similar logos.

![Under Armour logo](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/rbbtiyUMMMcgYKoEVn73tJ.jpg)
*Image credit: Under Armour*

It alleges the design bears “undeniable similarity” to its trademarked identity.

Under Armour vs. Indie Brand: A Logo Dispute That's Shaking the Design World

Getting a manicure is a service many book regularly, but there's a hidden price to nice nails that customers often overlook. It's a physically taxing job and a creative art requiring savvy entrepreneurship and skill. On TikTok, nail technicians have cleared up misconceptions and shared their hard boundaries with clients under hashtags like #5things.

To help you understand what being a nail tech is **really** like, we've gathered insights from professionals on what they won't do after working in the industry.

## 1. I won't constantly check my hands in the middle of an appointment.

"I would not keep pulling my hand away to look at what my nail tech is doing. I've had this happen to me multiple times, and it's super stressful! You begin to think about whether or not they're satisfied with what you're doing, and it also interrupts the whole process, causing the appointment to take longer. Please trust your nail technicians." — *Aleanie Molina, an Everett, Washington-based nail technician*

## 2. I won't stop wearing a mask.

Carmella Laporta, a New York-based nail technician, recounted in a TikTok video that one of the top things she would never do after working in her profession is not wear a mask, regardless of whether she's the client or the nail tech.

"Even before COVID, the nail dust is really bad for you, and I notice [that] when I don't wear a mask, I get really bad chest pains at the end of the day," Laporta said.

## 3. I won't ruin my body doing someone else's nails.

Lynette Chanel, a Columbus, Ohio-based nail technician, shared in a TikTok that she will not "ruin my body doing some nails," and for her that means kindly instructing clients to relax their hands into the right position instead of trying to work around a client's posture.

"They gotta sit here for two hours, we've gotta sit here for 10-plus years. And nail techs don't even be having health insurance like that," Chanel said in her video.

In a conversation with HuffPost, she elaborated on what constitutes the wrong hand positioning. "A lot of people are more tense than they realize and they kind of flare their fingers out and spread them out or even hyperextend them up. Which means as a nail tech, we're trying to constantly bend you back down. Just relax and chill," she said.

## 4. I won't be on my phone all the time.

"I wouldn't use my phone during a manicure. When getting a manicure, the nail tech's worst nightmare is someone using their phone during the manicure process. Picking up your phone whilst getting a manicure is a big no-no.

"We cleanse your hands and the nails for the polish/gel polish application by prepping the nail plates to be free of dust, lint and oil. When you use your hands to touch your phone or even anything on the nail desk, you have now made it harder for the tech to properly do the service. This is how smudges, lint, dust happen. Let's leave the phone alone until after the service is done." — *Christa Cole, a Pasadena, California-based nail technician*

## 5. I won't rebook someone who ghosted.

"Ghosting refers to someone who no-shows an appointment and doesn't bother to call or respond to messages. If that happens, you can be sure that the credit card I have on file for them will be charged the full amount of the service, and they are permanently blocked from rebooking.

"This kind of disrespect has run rampant in our industry, due to the 'walk-in' culture of low-quality salons. Nail artists that take our job seriously work by appointment only. If the client doesn't show, we don't make money. That's just not fair." — *Dylan Pritchard, a Las Vegas-based nail technician*

## 6. I won't excessively cut cuticles.

"We can cut as many cuticles as clients wish but there is [a difference between] your own skin and dead skin. Excessive cutting can cause bleeding or weaken your own cuticles." — *Amy Ling Lin, New York City-based founder of Sundays Nail Studio*

## 7. I won't fix someone else's work.

"With the over-saturation of our industry, quality assurance is very hard to come by. Most new clients that come into my space can't even tell you what kind of manicures they've been getting due to the apathy of past nail techs. I can't guarantee my quality of work if I'm filling or fixing someone else's work." — *Pritchard*

![Nail techs have seen it all, and they take these lessons with them to their own appointments.](https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/636963c5230000610016fad1.jpeg?cache=Bme7NeatHb&ops=scalefit_500_noupscale)

## 8. I won't do the same designs other artists have done.

"I've been working as a nail artist for about seven years now. I love to talk with my clients and create designs together. Sometimes a cute design, a trendy design, might not match the client's style; my goal is to make their nails match their personality.

"In these cases, I use my own creativity to propose different colors and designs or add something — for example, like stones, metallic, chrome, anything! — to the client." — *Miki Higuchi, New York City-based nail technician*

## 9. I won't shave my legs before a pedicure.

Rachel Robertson, the owner and manicurist at The Shimmer Room in Edgewater, Florida, said in a TikTok video that the things she won't do after working as a nail technician include shaving her legs right before a pedicure.

"Shaving causes microscopic tears in your skin. The products you are using in your treatment can irritate that further," Robertson explained in her TikTok. "And also, it's just leaving you open to possible infection. Not a good idea, and your nail tech does not care if your legs are hairy, I promise."

"I always tell people to wait at least 24 hours after shaving," Robertson told HuffPost.

## 10. I won't overlook hygienic standards.

"One red flag I would look out for is if your nail technician is reusing implements from other clients. This is a huge health hazard that unfortunately gets overlooked a lot by salons. There could be blood from other clients on those implements, fungi and bacteria in general and someone could get infected. They will reuse dirty files, buffers, cuticle nippers, even foot paddles. If their station or tools don't look clean, leave immediately!" — *Molina*

## 11. I won't spend 20 minutes picking a nail color.

"While we do understand it is important to choose the color that you love, [I've had experiences where] it sometimes took longer than 15 minutes, [so] we had to change the soaking water as it was already cold and we started worrying about the next appointment. That's why at Sundays Studio, we only created 55 timeless colors and it doesn't overwhelm clients." — *Lin*

## 12. I won't be late to an appointment.

"We can not only be late for our other clients, but our lunch breaks, or even what time we end up leaving the salon, or if the nail tech has kids or other engagements. You being late can drastically change [our] entire day.

"And for the nail techs, I would say have a policy to protect you from that. Your mental health can be damaged if you're dragging at work or if you don't like your work anymore because you can never get a lunch on time, or you can never leave on time. Definitely get some type of late policy." — *Chanel*

## 13. I won't negotiate the price with a nail tech.

"I'm a solo operator and have a private suite; I have a set price list that is subject to price changes. This pricing is based on the quality of service as well as my expertise. As a nail tech, we spend money on continuing education to learn new trends and how to work properly with companies' products.

"Having a client come in and try to haggle the price can feel triggering at times. We understand that certain clients aren't for us and that they are used to a certain quality of service for a cheaper price, but haggling with a tech who has invested so much money and time into their craft can make them feel like they're unworthy." — *Cole*

## 14. I won't give someone a hard time for charging what they are worth.

"I would never get my nails done knowing it's out of my budget. If I want a certain design, such as ombre or glitter nails, it is going to cost more than your simple one color set of nails.

"I've had some clients that complained to me about pricing for a certain design when designs are completely optional. Getting your nails done is definitely a luxury service and [is] not necessary at all. If you can't pay for them, please don't give your nail technician a hard time for charging their worth." — *Molina*

*The original version of this story was published on HuffPost at an earlier date.*

These nail artists and manicurists have seen and heard it all, and they have hard-set boundaries.

14 Insider Secrets Nail Techs Won't Tell You: What They Really Think About Your Manicure Habits

## A Decade-Long Legal Saga Between a Former Trump Official and His Interior Designers

On a Friday afternoon in November 2015, a message arrived in the inbox of the owners of **Design & More**, a small Tallahassee interior design firm. The married couple behind the local business, Russell and Rose Marie Brabec, had been entangled in a **bitter lawsuit** for the better part of a decade. The email, addressed primarily to their defense attorney, began a new chapter in what would become a **17-year legal battle**.

### The Origins of the Conflict

The lawsuit involves former Trump official **Pete Marocco**, who helped dismantle USAID in weeks during his political career. However, for nearly two decades, he has been embroiled in what some describe as a legal "**boondoggle**" in Tallahassee. The case highlights the **complex legal maneuvers** and accusations that can arise in client-designer relationships when disputes escalate.

### The Design Firm's Perspective

Design & More, operated by the Brabecs, found themselves in a prolonged conflict with a client who had significant political connections. The case demonstrates how **small businesses** in the design industry can become trapped in **lengthy legal proceedings** that drain resources and energy.

### What This Means for Design Professionals

This extraordinary case serves as a **cautionary tale** for interior designers and other creative professionals about the importance of **clear contracts**, **documentation**, and **professional boundaries**. When working with high-profile or difficult clients, designers must be particularly vigilant about protecting their business interests.

### The Broader Implications

The 17-year duration of this lawsuit is unusual even by legal standards, showing how **personal disputes** can evolve into **protracted legal battles** that impact everyone involved. For design professionals, it underscores the need for **risk management strategies** and potentially **professional liability insurance**.

While the specific details of the accusations and counter-accusations in this case are complex, the overarching lesson is clear: **client relationships** in the design industry require careful management from the very beginning to avoid costly and time-consuming conflicts.

A lawsuit between former Trump official Pete Marocco and a Florida design firm has gone on for over a decade, involving complex legal maneuvers and accusations.

The 17-Year Legal Battle That Exposed the Dark Side of Client-Designer Relationships

## The End of an Era for Durham's Lumiere Festival

Durham, a small, beautiful city in north-east England situated in a region grappling with rising poverty and inequality, has lost one of its most cherished cultural events. For 15 years, the **Lumiere festival** transformed its streets every two years with breathtaking light and art installations, creating moments of shared wonder and community connection.

Since its inception in 2009, Lumiere brought more than **250 international artists** to this extraordinary city, featuring renowned creators like **Ai Weiwei** in the Cathedral's Chapter House, **Fujiko Nakaya** on the riverbank, and **Chila Kumari Singh Burman** in the market square. The festival reached over **1.3 million people**, injected **£43 million into the local economy**, and engaged nearly **14,000 participants** in community projects. Its success stemmed from being free, exciting, and genuinely good - a rare combination in today's cultural landscape.

![Blinding … Ai Weiwei’s Illuminated Bottle Rack in 2023.](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/8e1b1113f38debc52e6401c4aab611ebb21e4b50/0_0_3888_5832/master/3888.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)

## The Crumbling Foundation of UK Arts

The arts sector across the UK is facing systemic collapse after decades of neglect. **Artists are exhausted**, and **Arts Council England** follows policy rather than shaping it. Government investment in ACE has plummeted by **32% in real terms since 2010**. When the council's main grant platform collapsed earlier this year, remaining out of action for four months, the government offered only technical advice - a stark contrast to the **£1.5 billion loan** extended to Jaguar Land Rover after their cyber-attack.

Local authorities, crippled by years of central funding cuts, face impossible choices between essential services and cultural programming. As we approach the autumn budget, industry bodies warn this could be a **tipping point** for many organizations. Critical support mechanisms like business rates relief for cultural buildings are ending, and the Shared Prosperity Fund is winding down.

## The Stark Contrast with Sports Funding

While the arts struggle for survival, the government allocated **half a billion pounds** for three major sporting events and another **£400 million for grassroots sports facilities**. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy defended this disparity by stating "sport tells our story in a way few other things can."

Yet the numbers tell a different story: the arts and culture industry contributes **over £10 billion annually** to the UK economy and **£2.8 billion each year** to the Treasury through taxation alone.

![Communal pride … I Love Durham by Jacques Rival in 2019.](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/063dacfab9b756bf81fe6ee0f535c5fbeedb258e/0_0_3500_2286/master/3500.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)

## What Art Truly Provides

Beyond economic metrics, art provides something immeasurable: the ability to stand side by side with strangers, unified by wonder and shared experience. In Durham, people came year after year, in rain and cold, to stand together in the light. This **communal connection** represents what art uniquely offers our society.

We often discuss "funding" as if it's a favor, when it's actually **investment in imagination**, shared experience, and our national story. We invest in trains, hospitals, and clean water because we recognize their essential nature. **Art is equally essential** to our collective wellbeing and identity.

## A Call for Change

Sector leaders are advocating for a **national arts recovery plan** - not charity, but public investment on equal footing with sport and science. Even a modest commitment in the upcoming budget would signal that culture matters in rebuilding our economy and communities.

The people of Durham understood this value intuitively. They came together repeatedly to experience the magic Lumiere created. Now the lights are out, and unless something changes fundamentally, this festival won't be the last to go dark.

The UK’s culture sector needs financial, political and public support to survive. Funding is not a ‘favour’. It is an investment in imagination, in our shared experience – and in inspiration and joy

Why the Lights Went Out on Durham's Lumiere Festival - And What It Means for the Future of Arts

## Yasam Ayavefe: From the Business World to the Shimmering Realm of Electronic Music

![Yasam Ayavefe](https://techbullion.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screenshot_2025-10-24-14-58-03-92_a1b1bbe5f63d5b96c1a0f87c197ebfae.jpg)

Renowned entrepreneur **Yasam Ayavefe**, best known for his achievements in the luxury tourism sector, is now making waves in the music scene. Blending the elegance of Mykonos, the free spirit of the Mediterranean, and the vibrant pulse of modern city life, Ayavefe offers his audience more than just songs—he offers a lifestyle through his latest series of singles.

Merging his visionary business mindset with artistic expression, **Yasam Ayavefe** has transformed his philosophy of “**sustainable luxury**” into sound. His music collection, inspired by the serene atmosphere of **Mileo Luxury Boutique Hotel**, radiates sophistication and positive energy much like golden sunlight dancing across the Mykonos horizon.

## Yasam Ayavefe’s Melodic Journey: Sun, Light, and Rhythm

Among **Yasam Ayavefe**’s releases are “Dancing on Sunshine,” “In the Glow,” “Starlit Vibes,” “Sunlight on the Waves,” “Rise and Grind II,” “Echoes of Cappadocia,” and “Ateş ve Sis.” Each track unites elements of **melodic house, chill-pop, and modern trap**, resulting in a distinct and uplifting sound.

Balancing analog warmth with digital clarity, Ayavefe crafts music that transcends dance floors—finding its place in luxury hotel lounges, seaside bars, and exclusive events.

As the creative force behind **Mileo Luxury Hotel**’s music curation, his tracks now feature prominently in the property’s new signature playlist. Whether it’s “Dancing Through the Stars” during a sunset view or “Feel The Sunlight” brightening a late morning breakfast, guests are treated to an emotional, sensory experience beyond traditional hospitality.

## Yasam Ayavefe’s Global Musical Journey

The sound of **Yasam Ayavefe** resonates far beyond the Aegean shores—echoing across the globe. His tracks are available on **25 major digital music platforms across 249 countries**, connecting cultures through rhythm and emotion.

Leading platforms include **Spotify, Apple Music & iTunes, YouTube Music, Anghami, Amazon Music, Deezer, Tidal, Boomplay, Shazam, Pandora, Soundtrack Your Brand, Tencent Music, Yandex Music, Resso, and JioSaavn**, among others.

- **Spotify**: open.spotify.com/artist/2hD1lpWfn2E3tdOpWjlXJs
- **Apple Music**: music.apple.com/ae/artist/yasam-ayavefe/1847312904

This extensive global distribution underscores that **Yasam Ayavefe**’s vision extends beyond the identity of an artist—it’s part of a larger, international brand narrative.

## The Rhythm of Mileo Luxury Hotel: A Harmony of Art, Nature, and Elegance

Perched above Kalo Livadi Beach, **Mileo Luxury Boutique Hotel** is more than a luxury resort—it’s an immersive sensory experience. Its design draws inspiration from nature’s geometry and harmony, and the curated soundscape follows the same ethos.

**Yasam Ayavefe**’s music brings each space to life—accompanying the sunset by the pool, creating tranquility in the spa, and energizing the Mykonos nights during private events. Each track reflects both his musical sensitivity and **Mileo’s refined character**.

The soothing tones of “Sunshine Paradise” complement morning yoga sessions, while tracks like “Rise and Run” and “Digital Pulse” set a vibrant rhythm for evening cocktails. Through these melodies, Ayavefe seamlessly connects architecture, emotion, and atmosphere.

## Yasam Ayavefe: At the Intersection of Art, Technology, and Luxury

On one side stands a visionary entrepreneur known for his ventures in tourism and technology; on the other, a passionate artist translating emotion into electronic rhythm. **Yasam Ayavefe** bridges these worlds effortlessly.

His production techniques, innovative use of modern software, and attention to sonic design highlight his creative precision. Every track is constructed like a fine piece of architecture—layered, balanced, and emotionally resonant.

For Ayavefe, music isn’t a mere pastime; it’s an extension of creativity and discipline. “**Art should live at the heart of business**,” he often says—and through his music, he redefines what luxury truly means.

## Luxury Reimagined in Sound

With **17 singles released** across the world’s most prestigious platforms, **Yasam Ayavefe** continues to merge business acumen with artistic expression. His portfolio bridges cultures and industries, showing that modern luxury is no longer confined to physical spaces—it can be heard, felt, and experienced.

Whether it’s the golden glow of “Dancing on Sunshine” or the mystical tones of “Echoes of Cappadocia,” each composition mirrors Ayavefe’s life philosophy: harmony between progress and peace, innovation and tradition.

## From Mykonos to the World

As Mykonos continues to symbolize sophistication and freedom, **Yasam Ayavefe** shapes its sound identity through his music. His melodies carry the warmth of the Aegean and the pulse of the modern world—a balance few can achieve.

Through the soundscape of **Mileo Luxury Boutique Hotel**, Ayavefe doesn’t just compose music; he curates moments, elevating the essence of luxury living.

Because in his world, luxury is not just something you see—it’s something you hear.

Renowned entrepreneur Yasam Ayavefe, best known for his achievements in the luxury tourism sector, is now making waves in the music

From Luxury Hotels to Global Charts: How Yasam Ayavefe Is Redefining Music and Design

**Dylan Field**, the cofounder and CEO of Figma Inc., recently made headlines with Figma's **wildly successful IPO** on the New York Stock Exchange. This event not only marked a significant milestone for Figma but also highlighted the **rising importance of design** in the tech industry.

![Dylan Field at NYSE](https://media.wired.com/photos/68923d06dd06ef61f8b6594d/master/w_2560%2Cc_limit/Backchannel-Dylan-Field-Figma-Business-2227187055.jpg)
*Dylan Field, cofounder and CEO of Figma Inc., speaks during a Bloomberg Television interview outside of the New York Stock Exchange.*

Figma's public launch was anything but ordinary. The company's shares **skyrocketed from $33 to $142** before settling at $90, showcasing the immense confidence investors have in Figma's future. The event turned into a **block party**, with fans, employees (known as Figmates), and investors celebrating with swag, free pizza, and music from a DJ that echoed through Wall Street.

Field, appearing on Zoom shortly after the IPO, displayed a mix of **giddiness and fatigue**. He emphasized that the real story isn't just Figma's success but the **broader rise of design** as a critical component of technology and business. Figma's journey from a startup to a publicly traded company underscores the **growing influence of design tools** in shaping the digital landscape.

Dylan Field took Figma public in one of the wildest IPOs in recent memory. He insists the real story is the rise of design itself.

Figma's IPO Triumph: Dylan Field's Vision for the Future of Design

## The Rise of Celebrity Brands

I've always been a little sceptical when celebrities announce they've launched a brand, especially since nowadays it seems like every d-lister and their mothers are flogging some sort of 'personal' branded tat. That's not to say that some celeb brands can't be an immense success, but often the same question arises – do famous people **really** need more brands?

## The Challenge of Building a Standout Brand

When you're starting out as a small business, knowing **how to create a standout brand** can seem like an imposing mountain to climb. For celebs, the typical challenge of building an audience is already there, and in some cases, it seems like it's just a matter of slapping your face on a box and watching the money roll in. So, in the spirit of fairness, I'd like to take a dive into the mystical waters of celeb brands and truly decide if they're worth the hype, or if it's just a good ol' fashioned cash grab.

![Celebrity Brands](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/AZ3Eg599wMWk3zeXYxQktd.jpg)

*Image credit: Getty Images/Han Myung-Gu/Allen J. Schaben/Charles McQuillan / Stringer*

## Are Celebrity Brands Authentic?

The article explores the authenticity behind celebrity brands, questioning whether they offer real value or are merely leveraging fame for financial gain. It highlights the contrast between the effort small businesses put into branding versus the seemingly effortless launch of celebrity-endorsed products.

The Truth Behind Celebrity Brands: Authenticity or Just a Cash Grab?

## Key Points
- **Involve a designer early** to ensure smooth planning and a well-executed vision.
- Set **clear priorities** and be realistic about budget and draw inspiration from social media.
- **Trust your designer** and be patient—great results take time and expertise.

Designers have amassed tons of valuable insight from their years on the job, and they oftentimes wish that their clients had a better understanding of all of the various components of the design process.

Here, three **pro designers** share five pieces of advice that they wish all of their clients knew. If you go into your own project with these points top of mind, you'll already be in much better shape than many people who hire a designer.

## Meet the Expert
- **Jodi Peterman** is the founder of Elizabeth Erin Designs.
- **Andrea Schumacher** is the founder of Andrea Schumacher Interiors.
- **Jennifer Jones** is the founder of Niche Interiors.

![Credit: Mary Patton Design](https://www.marypattondesign.com/)

## You Must Involve a Designer From the Beginning
Jodi Peterman, the founder of Elizabeth Erin Designs, wishes that all of her clients understood just how integral a role an interior designer plays from the get-go.

"Bringing in a designer after the contractor is signed is like hiring a chef after you've already bought all the ingredients—it limits what's possible," she says.

Peterman is adamant that a designer should be involved right away in order to ensure a project moves smoothly and reflects a clients' desires to a T.

"That’s how we build intentionality into every square inch—so your home doesn’t just look good in pictures, it actually lives beautifully, too," she says.

## Planning Is Key
On a related note, Peterman shares that going into a design project with a clear plan in place is essential, and that oftentimes means onboarding a whole team of professionals, including a designer, contractor, and sometimes an architect or engineer.

"Proper planning at the start prevents overwhelm, delays, decision fatigue and budget blowouts later," she says. "It's not about perfection—it's about alignment!"

## Social Media Isn't Reality
![Credit: Studio Peake](https://www.studiopeake.com/)
While social media can be an excellent jumping off point to help you best convey your style to the designer you hire, it's important to keep in mind that the pictures you see on the internet aren't going to be attainable for all.

“Pinterest and Instagram are a beautiful starting point, but they don’t tell the whole story—especially when it comes to what things actually cost," Andrea Schumacher, the founder of Andrea Schumacher Interiors, says. "That dream kitchen or living room likely had a dream budget to match."

The designer notes that it's important to lay out one's priorities from the beginning—as well as areas in which you're willing to compromise—in order to achieve your desired outcome in a way that is manageable.

## Your Designer Is a Professional—Trust Them
The whole reason you hired an interior designer is to rely upon their years of expertise—so sit back and let them do what they do best, pros say.

This means not turning to other people in your life, asking them to weigh in with their opinion on your design project, or second guessing decisions that have already been finalized.

"You do not need your creative neighbor's opinion on every design decision for your home," Jennifer Jones, the founder of Niche Interiors, explains. "Crowd sourcing opinions only leads to unnecessary revisions and additional design hours."

Schumacher agrees with this sentiment, noting that even the slightest alteration can disrupt the flow of a project.

"It’s tempting to jump ahead, source pieces on your own, or change direction midstream, but every decision is intentional and part of a larger puzzle," she says. "Give us the space to do what you hired us to do—craft a home that’s more beautiful and functional than you imagined."

## Remember That Good Design Takes Time
![Credit: Louis Duncan-He](https://louisdhe.com/)
It's important to embark on your home redesign knowing that you're not on a TV show—this is real life, and changes don't occur overnight. This is particularly the case when you're weaving custom pieces, like furniture, finishes, and more—into your home, Schumacher explains. However, patience certainly does pay off in the long run.

"It’s worth the wait to get it right the first time," she says.

Interior designers share five pieces of advice they wish their clients knew before embarking on a professional design project.

5 Unspoken Truths Designers Wish Clients Knew Before Starting a Project

## Etsy's New Policy on 3D Printed Designs

In a move that's shaking up the creative community, **Etsy has updated its rules regarding the sale of 3D printed items**. Previously, sellers could print and sell products based on designs they didn't create, as long as they had permission. Now, **Etsy mandates that all designs sold on the platform must be original creations of the seller**.

![Best 3D printers](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZCFRbw6nYHyhDia2ZYSKSk.jpg)
*Image credit: Getty Images*

### What This Means for Sellers

This policy change is a double-edged sword:
- **It halts the business of those who print and sell others' designs**.
- **It also affects designers who sell their designs for others to print and sell**, potentially cutting off a revenue stream.

While this move aims to **clarify copyright issues**, it leaves many shops at risk of closure. Sellers are urged to review the [Etsy Creativity Standards](https://www.etsy.com/legal/creativity/) to ensure compliance.

### Looking Ahead

This change comes at a time when **3D printing is experiencing significant growth**, making it a pivotal moment for creatives to rethink their business models on Etsy. Whether this will lead to a more authentic marketplace or stifle creativity remains to be seen.

Etsy's New Rules on 3D Prints: A Game-Changer for Creatives

### Acquisition Highlights
- **Stantec** is set to acquire **Page**, a leading architecture and engineering firm based in Washington, DC, significantly enhancing its position in the US market.

### Key Benefits of the Acquisition
- This acquisition will position **Stantec** as the **second-largest architecture firm** in the US and the **largest integrated engineering and architecture firm** in North America.
- It will expand Stantec’s service offerings in high-growth sectors such as **advanced manufacturing**, **data centers**, and **healthcare**, while also introducing capabilities in **cleanroom design** and **fabrication facilities**.

### Strategic Growth
- The deal is a strategic move to meet the goals outlined in Stantec’s **2024-2026 Strategic Plan**.
- With Page on board, Stantec’s **Buildings practice** will grow by approximately **35%**, increasing its workforce to about **13,500 employees** in the US.

### About Page
- Founded in **1898**, Page has a portfolio that includes notable projects like the **Indeed Tower** in Austin and the **National Museum of African American History and Culture** in Washington, DC.
- The firm is recognized for its commitment to **design excellence** and has a strong focus on various sectors including **academic**, **civic**, **commercial**, and **healthcare**.

### Leadership Statements
- **Gord Johnston**, CEO of Stantec, emphasized that this acquisition will enhance their ability to serve North American clients better.
- **Thomas McCarthy**, CEO of Page, expressed excitement about joining Stantec to accelerate their strategic goals and enhance their service capabilities.

### Future Outlook
- The acquisition is pending regulatory approvals, and Stantec plans to finance the deal through existing funds. This move is expected to strengthen Stantec’s market influence and operational capacity in the design and engineering sectors.

![Stantec Logo](https://ml.globenewswire.com/media/YTk2YTE4NjItOWU1Yi00MzkxLWJjMTItMGVjZjk4NTI4YTA0LTEwOTQ1MjgtMjAyNS0wNC0wMy1lbg==/tiny/Stantec.png)

WASHINGTON and EDMONTON, Alberta and NEW YORK, April  03, 2025  (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TSX, NYSE:STN        Highlights:        Acquisition positions Stantec...

Stantec's Bold Move: Acquiring Page to Revolutionize Design and Engineering

## Custom Ink's Leadership Change

Custom Ink, a leader in **custom products and apparel**, has announced the appointment of **Arthur Chapin** as the **Chief Product, Design & Technology Officer**. Chapin, who previously worked at **Expedia Group** and **Realtor.com**, brings nearly **25 years of experience** in product, technology, and design.

Chapin's role will focus on consolidating Custom Ink's **Product, Design, and Technology** functions to create innovative solutions for customers and drive business growth. CEO **David Doctorow** praised Chapin’s **customer-first mindset** and his previous success in leading significant organizational changes.

In addition, **Bailey Rockwell Adrian** has been promoted to **Vice President, Power Buyers**. She has been with Custom Ink since **2010**, serving in various leadership roles and will now manage a new unit focused on high-volume corporate customers.

## About Custom Ink

Custom Ink specializes in providing **custom products and apparel** for organizations, groups, and businesses, helping to create inspired custom gear that fosters community and teamwork. The company prides itself on its innovative design tools and exceptional customer service.

![Custom Ink](https://rt.prnewswire.com/rt.gif?NewsItemId=PH93302&Transmission_Id=202501100843PR_NEWS_USPR_____PH93302&DateId=20250110)

/PRNewswire/ -- Custom Ink, the online leader in custom products and apparel for organizations, groups, and businesses, today announced that former Expedia...

Custom Ink Elevates Leadership with Arthur Chapin as New Chief Product, Design, and Technology Officer

## Rolls-Royce's F130 Engine Achieves Milestone

Rolls-Royce has announced that its **new F130 engine** has successfully passed the **Critical Design Review (CDR)** phase, marking a significant step towards production and the delivery of the **upgraded B-52J** to the U.S. Air Force.

The CDR milestone is the result of over **two years** of detailed design work and collaboration among Rolls-Royce, the Air Force, and Boeing. The engine testing program is set to commence altitude testing in **February 2025** at the U.S. Air Force Arnold Engineering Development Complex in Tullahoma, Tennessee.

During the CDR, final designs were validated through analyses, simulations, and test results, ensuring that the project remains on track to meet performance goals while adhering to budget and timeline constraints.

Candice Bineyard, Director of Early Life Cycle & Naval Programs, expressed pride in achieving the F130 CDR milestone on time, emphasizing the rigorous collaboration with partners.

Earlier this year, Rolls-Royce completed the initial phases of F130 **sea-level tests** in Indianapolis, where the engines will be manufactured and tested. The **Rapid Twin Pod Tests** at NASA Stennis Space Center were crucial in confirming the integration of the F130 engines onto the B-52J, helping to mitigate risks and ensure test objectives are met.

![F130 Engine Testing](https://theaviationist.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/RR-F130-1-706x394.jpeg)
*The F130 engine during testing at NASA Stennis Space Center in Mississippi (Rolls-Royce)*

The RR F130 engines were selected in **2021** to replace the outdated Pratt & Whitney TF33 engines used since the 1960s. The B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program began in **2018**, with Rolls-Royce winning the contract for the military version of the BR725 engine.

The Air Force aims to finalize integration activities and deliver the first modified B-52 aircraft by **2026-2027**, with operational capability expected by **2030**. The new engines promise to increase fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and lower maintenance costs, remaining on the B-52 through at least **2050**.

In addition to the engines, the B-52J will feature upgrades including a modified radar system, a streamlined profile, and advanced cockpit displays, enhancing its operational capabilities for the future.

Rolls-Royce has announced that its new F130 engine has successfully passed the Critical Design Review (CDR) phase, progressing toward production.

Revolutionary F130 Engine for B-52J Passes Critical Review – What’s Next?

## A Shocking Burglary at Evey's Preloved

A **businesswoman** is urging caution after **luxury bags** worth tens of thousands of pounds were stolen from her showroom in Mill Hill, North-West London. Evey Amery, 57, expressed her distress, stating she *"felt really upset"* after the break-in, which occurred with a **sledgehammer** around 22:40 GMT on Tuesday. Alongside the designer bags, high-value watches were also taken.

![Evey Amery](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/480/cpsprodpb/dfd4/live/fcb86d30-b308-11ef-842c-170e37f7cefa.jpg.webp)

Evey, who specializes in selling **pre-owned designer bags**, has built her business over several years. Despite the incident, she remains committed to her work, saying, *"It's a little business but I'm here, I love what I do and so I will carry on."*

## Community Support and Police Investigation

The **Metropolitan Police** are actively investigating the burglary, gathering **CCTV footage** to aid their inquiries. While no arrests have been made, Evey described the break-in as *"well planned"* and has called on her colleagues to be vigilant, warning that unsuspecting buyers might be purchasing stolen goods. 

She noted that many of the stolen bags were without their original boxes and dust covers, raising concerns about their resale.

![Stolen Bags](https://ichef.bbci.co.uk/news/480/cpsprodpb/fe30/live/aba19fc0-b326-11ef-9eea-4f995c70052c.jpg.webp)

Evey expressed her gratitude for the community's support following this *"horrible thing to happen"*. She highlighted the genuine kindness of people who have reached out to help her during this challenging time.

*"I'm not global or corporate, I love what I do. I love selling, I love chatting and I love pre-loved,"* she said, emphasizing the importance of community in the face of adversity.

A businesswoman issues a warning after bags worth thousands of pounds were stolen from her showroom.

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