Nov 8, 2026 · 12 min listen · Last updated November 8, 2026
From storyflo. This is your daily audio brief. Here are today's top 8 design and architecture stories. Let's get into it. First, from ArchDaily. Apartment Renovation in the Ensanche of Bilbao / BABELstudio. The recent renovation project in Bilbao's Ensanche district has transformed a typical 1970s apartment layout, which was known for its small, compartmentalized rooms.
Listen · storyflo · design and architecture
Daily Design Brief · November 8th
0:00-11:42
Pick your daily storyteller
Subscribe to match with Theo, Jessica, Chloe, Mason, Brock — your voice, every brief.
Audio pre-rendered by Storyflo · cached + delivered from the edge
Apartment Renovation in the Ensanche of Bilbao / BABELstudio
The recent renovation project in Bilbao's Ensanche district has transformed a typical 1970s apartment layout, which was known for its small, compartmentalized rooms. Spanning 80 square meters, the original design featured multiple bedrooms, a kitchen, a breakfast nook, a living room, two bathrooms, and a long terrace that ran along the main façade.
The renovation aimed to create a more open and inviting space, breaking down the walls that separated the rooms to foster a sense of flow and connectivity. By reimagining the layout, the designers have managed to enhance natural light throughout the apartment, making it feel more spacious and welcoming.
The kitchen has been integrated into the living area, promoting a communal atmosphere that encourages family gatherings and social interactions. The use of modern materials and finishes not only modernizes the aesthetic but also adds a touch of warmth and comfort to the overall design.
Additionally, the long terrace has been revitalized, serving as an extension of the living space and providing a lovely outdoor area for relaxation or entertaining. This thoughtful renovation reflects a growing trend in urban living, where maximizing space and creating functional, inviting environments is key.
Overall, this project showcases how a well-planned renovation can breathe new life into an older apartment, making it not just a place to live, but a home that resonates with modern lifestyles.
House with Forest Windows / Yosuke Tomiya Architectural Design
The House with Forest Windows is a unique timber home situated in Sapporo, Hokkaido, where suburban life meets a lush forest. This location presents an interesting challenge: the front of the house is surrounded by close-knit neighbors, while the back opens up to a serene woodland. The architects approached the design with a focus on how to blend daily family activities with the natural beauty of the forest, all while ensuring the family's privacy from the houses nearby.
To achieve this, the design incorporates large windows that frame views of the forest, allowing natural light to flood the interior and creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The layout encourages family interaction with nature, making it a central part of their living experience. The use of timber not only complements the surrounding environment but also adds warmth to the home.
The architects paid special attention to the balance between openness and seclusion. By positioning the main living areas toward the forest, they created a peaceful retreat that feels both spacious and intimate. This thoughtful design invites the family to engage with their surroundings while maintaining a sense of comfort and security within their home. Overall, the House with Forest Windows stands as a beautiful example of how architecture can harmonize with nature and enhance everyday life.
In northern Vietnam, a noticeable shift is happening in rural areas where large family plots are being divided among younger generations. This change reflects the evolving lifestyles of these younger folks, who are adapting to urbanization and seeking more independence in their living arrangements.
As families split up, we’re seeing smaller plots emerge, leading to the construction of multi-storey houses instead of the traditional low-rise garden homes that used to dominate the landscape. This transition not only changes the physical environment but also alters the dynamics of family life, as independence becomes more prevalent.
The new homes are a reflection of modern values and aspirations, highlighting a move toward individual living spaces that cater to personal needs and preferences. It’s interesting to see how these developments are reshaping community structures and family interactions in these rural settings.
How do you throw a party for 'flexi-drinkers'? We asked the French Bloom Founders
If you’re planning a party for those who enjoy a bit of flexibility with their drinks, the founders of French Bloom have some great insights to share. They emphasize the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere that caters to different preferences. It’s all about offering a variety of options, from non-alcoholic beverages to low-alcohol choices, so everyone feels included.
They suggest setting up a DIY cocktail station where guests can mix their own drinks, allowing for creativity and personalization. This not only engages your guests but also makes the experience more interactive and fun. Think about incorporating fresh ingredients and unique garnishes to elevate the drinks, making them visually appealing and delicious.
Another tip is to focus on the food pairings. Having a selection of tasty snacks that complement the drinks can enhance the overall experience. Think about light bites that are easy to grab and enjoy while mingling. It keeps the vibe relaxed and encourages conversation.
Lastly, the founders stress the importance of the ambiance. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a good playlist can set the right mood for your gathering. It’s all about creating a space where everyone feels at ease, whether they’re sipping on a cocktail or a mocktail. So, if you’re hosting soon, keep these tips in mind to ensure everyone has a great time!
Meet the Electra Aero EL9, an aircraft that might just revolutionise point-to-point travel
Electra, a Virginia-based company founded in 2019, is working on a new aircraft called the Electra Aero EL9 that could change the way we travel short distances. Traditional fixed-wing planes need long runways, which can be inconvenient. The EL9 aims to tackle this by using a technology called "Ultra Short" capabilities, allowing it to take off and land in just about 60 meters. This means it can operate from many more locations with minimal infrastructure.
Their two-seater demonstration aircraft, the EL2 Goldfinch, recently showcased its abilities by taking off and landing from a floating barge in Manhattan. The Goldfinch features eight propellers that create "blown lift," allowing it to gain lift quickly and land at lower speeds than conventional planes. This technology has roots in military aircraft from the 1950s but has only recently become viable with advancements in hybrid propulsion systems that use lightweight electric motors.
Electra plans to start test flights of the EL9, which can carry nine passengers, next year. While the company recognizes that larger aircraft for 100 or more passengers would still fit within traditional airport systems, the EL9 offers a more efficient and quieter alternative to helicopters, which are limited in capacity and often disruptive in urban areas. The goal is to provide a cost-effective option for short-distance travel, potentially transforming how we think about point-to-point flights.
Electra's analysis suggests there are millions of passenger trips in the U.S. that could benefit from this type of travel, especially over distances too long to drive but too short for conventional flights. They envision a future where booking a flight could be as simple as pushing a button, making air travel more accessible and convenient. While there are still hurdles to overcome, including passenger acceptance of this new technology, the experience promises to be smooth and quick, much like riding an elevator.
Chirp Company’s birdfeeders are inspired by modern and contemporary art
Chirp Company is shaking up the birdfeeding scene with their new line of birdfeeders that draw inspiration from modern and contemporary art. These aren’t your typical feeders; each piece is crafted to be a stunning blend of functionality and artistic expression. They aim to transform the way we think about birdwatching, making it not just a hobby but a visual experience.
The designs are varied, featuring bold colors and unique shapes that could easily fit into a gallery. It’s clear that Chirp Company is targeting not just bird lovers but also design enthusiasts who appreciate art in everyday life. By merging aesthetics with nature, they’re encouraging people to engage with their outdoor spaces in a fresh way.
This approach isn’t just about feeding birds; it’s about creating a dialogue between art and nature. The company believes that these feeders can inspire creativity and appreciation for the environment, turning a simple act into something more meaningful. It’s a lovely reminder of how art can permeate all aspects of our lives, even in our backyards.
Overall, Chirp Company is making a statement that resonates with both art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Their birdfeeders are not just functional items; they’re pieces of art that invite us to pause, reflect, and enjoy the beauty around us.
Refreshed Freetown Memorial is a spectacle of light, as well as a ‘message of hope’
The Freetown Memorial in Sierra Leone has received a stunning refresh, thanks to Oshinówò Studio, which has added a striking glass prism to the original monument designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1931. This update not only honors the memory of the First World War soldiers but also recognizes the contributions of the local Carrier Corps for the first time. The new structure stands at 8.4 meters tall and features illuminated glass fins that create a vibrant beam of light visible from miles away, transforming the memorial into a beacon of remembrance and hope.
Tosin Oshinówò, the founder of Oshinówò Studio, embraced the challenge of this project, integrating the names of over 900 fallen Carrier Corps members into the design. She aimed to create a space that transcends its physical location, allowing the memorial to resonate with the wider community. The light element serves not just as a tribute but also as a way to foster collective remembrance of Sierra Leone's history and tragedies.
The project involved a diverse international team, tackling complex technical challenges, particularly in reinforcing the existing structure to support the new design. Oshinówò described the experience as rewarding, despite the hurdles they faced. The memorial will also feature an epitaph in Krio and English, symbolizing a renewed commitment to honor all who served during the World Wars, emphasizing the importance of recognizing diverse contributions to shared history.
This revitalized memorial is more than just a tribute; it aims to connect the past with the present and future, illuminating significant days throughout the year to encourage ongoing reflection and remembrance. It's a significant step in acknowledging historical wrongs and ensuring that every soldier's sacrifice is honored equally.
The vehicles of Vice City join the real world courtesy of LA-based West Coast Customs
Rockstar Games is making waves as they gear up for the release of Grand Theft Auto VI by bringing six iconic vehicles from the game to life on the streets of Miami. Collaborating with West Coast Customs, these cars are not just replicas; they’re fully functional versions of the flashy rides players will get to drive in the game. This clever promotion is a nod to the vibrant car culture that the game celebrates, blending the virtual world with reality.
Among the featured cars, you'll find the Grotti Cheetah, a sleek homage to the classic Ferrari Testarossa, and the Invetero Coquette, which mirrors the latest Corvette. There’s also the Albany Manana, a nod to vintage Cadillacs, and the Albany Buccaneer, a mash-up of a 70s Buick Riviera and a Ford Fairlane. Each vehicle is crafted to reflect the unique style and flair of Miami, with custom touches that resonate with the city’s automotive scene.
The Pegassi Tempesta, inspired by the Lamborghini Huracán, and the Progen Emerus, which takes cues from the limited-edition McLaren Senna, round out this impressive lineup. West Coast Customs meticulously transformed real cars into these virtual counterparts, showcasing their expertise in metal fabrication and design.
As players explore the game, they’ll encounter locations inspired by real Miami architecture, including the iconic Miami Marine Stadium and Herzog & de Meuron's 1111 Lincoln Road. With the game set to launch on November 19, 2026, excitement is building, not just for the gameplay but for the rich, immersive world that Rockstar has crafted.
Send this story to anyone — or drop the embed into a blog post, Substack, Notion page. Every play sends rev-share back to storyflo · design and architecture.