My colleague can build our project, while I get the following linker errors:
26>gtest.lib(gtest-all.obj) : error LNK2038: mismatch detected for '_ITERATOR_DEBUG_LEVEL': value '0' doesn't match value '2' in ReadInExpectedValues.obj
26>gtest.lib(gtest-all.obj) : error LNK2038: mismatch detected for 'RuntimeLibrary': value 'MD_DynamicRelease' doesn't match value 'MDd_DynamicDebug' in ReadInExpectedValues.obj
What is this difference due to?
Consider that we are using the same:
Source code (checked-out from git, last commit).
Windows 11 version.
Visual Studio 17.14.10 / MSVC 19.44.35213.0.
CMake 3.31.6-msvc6 (from Developer PowerShell).
Google Test is part of the project, so same version (from 2005).
Also:
The ‘_ITERATOR_DEBUG_LEVEL’ string is not present in our project and dependencies (even if ReadInExpectedValues.obj is one of our object files).
The ‘RuntimeLibrary’ string is present in all the .vcxproj files always as: <RuntimeLibrary>MultiThreadedDebugDLL</RuntimeLibrary>, so all code should be built as MultiThreadedDebugDLL, with no mismatches.
Figma will begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday in one of the most anticipated IPOs of 2025. The IPO is 40-times oversubscribed, VCs confirmed to TechCrunch and Bloomberg previously reported.
That means demand for shares is 40 times the number of shares the company and its existing investors are selling. So it should surprise no one that Figma, which offers design software, has priced its initial shares at $33 per share, above its previously announced range.
On Monday, the company said its expected price range was $30 to $32, up from a previously announced range of $25 to $28. At the final $33 price, the offering raised $1.2 billion. Most of that money is going to existing shareholders who are selling about twice as many shares (including founder and CEO Dylan Field), as the company itself has offered.
The IPO price values Figma at $19.3 billion, CNBC reports, near the $20 billion price Adobe would have paid before its deal to buy Figma fell apart in 2023 under pressure from regulators.
As the summer of 2025 brings warmth and vibrancy, it’s the perfect time to refresh and elevate your workspace to increase productivity and comfort. With remote work continuing to thrive, creating an inspiring and efficient home office is more important than ever. A mundane home office, with its lack of personalization, uncomfortable furniture, or outdated equipment, can feel monotonous, and therefore, stifle creativity and motivation.
It can be hard to know where to begin when you are updating your home office. This product guide simplifies the first step by curating the latest, most effective tools and furniture, saving you time and ensuring you choose items that inspire productivity and comfort. From innovative tech gadgets to ergonomic furniture and cooling solutions, this guide highlights the must-have essentials to elevate your home office. Embrace this summer’s energy and transform your workspace into a hub of creativity and focus with these top picks for Summer 2025.
Google Pixel Tablet and Google Nest Learning Thermostat
Photo credit: Google
The Google Pixel Tablet is a game-changer for entrepreneurs looking to optimize their workday with cutting-edge technology. Its seamless integration with the Google ecosystem ensures a cohesive experience for those already using Pixel or Android devices. If you’re not already a user of the Google ecosystem, this tablet is a great way to get started.
Powered by the Tensor G2 chip and Google AI, the Google Pixel Tablet delivers fast, seamless performance for multitasking, from managing emails to running productivity apps like Google Workspace. Its 11-inch vibrant display and long battery life make it ideal for extended work sessions, whether you’re reviewing documents, video conferencing via Google Meet, or organizing tasks with Google Assistant. This tablet offers the ability to pair with Pixel phones and earbuds to streamline operations, and functions with Quick Share for effortless file transfers. With Hub Mode, the tablet transforms into a smart home control center when docked, allowing you to manage schedules, set reminders, or control compatible smart office devices, streamlining your workflow from anywhere in the office.
Photo credit: Google
For entrepreneurs, the Google Pixel Tablet’s versatility extends beyond traditional tablet use, making it a powerful office upgrade. The Charging Speaker Dock keeps it powered 24/7 and provides room-filling sound for presentations or background music to boost focus. Features like Magic Editor and Magic Eraser in Google Photos allow for quick, professional-grade edits to visuals, perfect for creating polished presentations on the fly. With access to the Google Play Store, entrepreneurs can customize their tablet with apps tailored to their business needs, from project management tools to financial trackers. Entrepreneurs will appreciate that the Google Pixel Tablet keeps sustainability at the forefront, with over 30% recycled materials. Retails for $399 at store.google.com.
Photo credit: Google
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) is a cutting-edge smart home device that redefines climate control with its sleek design and advanced features. Featuring a 60% larger, borderless 2.7-inch crystal LCD display with a 600×600 pixel resolution, it offers clear visibility of temperature, weather, or time from across the room, customizable via the Google Home app. Its AI-driven Smart Schedule learns your temperature preferences and adjusts automatically, while Adaptive Eco and Nest Renew’s Energy Shift optimize energy use by shifting to cleaner or cheaper times, potentially saving 12% on heating and 15% on cooling bills. The included Nest Temperature Sensor (2nd Gen) allows you to prioritize comfort in specific rooms, such as your home office, ensuring optimal temperatures during work hours.
This Google Nest Learning Thermostat thermostat is a great home office essential due to its ability to maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient workspace tailored to your schedule. The included temperature sensor is particularly valuable for home offices, as it can be placed to monitor and adjust the office’s climate, addressing hot or cold spots for consistent comfort during long work sessions. Its compatibility with most HVAC systems, including ventilation and humidifiers, and easy installation without a C-wire, make it accessible for most homes. With Matter certification, it seamlessly integrates with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and other smart home ecosystems, and its System Health Monitor sends alerts for HVAC issues, ensuring reliable performance. You’ll also appreciate its elegant design elevates the home. Available in Polished Obsidian, Gold, and Silver. Retails for $279.99 at store.google.com.
Cozey Naos Accent Chair
Photo credit: Cozey
Cozey, a Canadian furniture brand founded in Montreal, offers modular, stylish, and high-quality furniture that’s perfect for enhancing home office spaces. Designed with modern living in mind, their sofas, tables, and storage solutions provide comfort and functionality that adapt to dynamic work-from-home needs. The direct-to-consumer model ensures exceptional value, delivering durable, easy-to-assemble pieces with washable, pet-friendly fabrics ideal for busy entrepreneurs.
The Cozey Naos Chair is a perfect blend of modern Danish elegance and practical comfort, making it an ideal addition to any home office or living space. It is crafted with a sturdy ash wood frame and high-density foam, offering a relaxing yet ergonomic seating experience for long work hours or leisurely moments. Its sleek, minimalist design seamlessly complements various interior styles, from contemporary to mid-century modern, while the soft, neutral Fog fabric adds a touch of sophistication. You’ll appreciate its tool-free assembly, allowing a quick enhancement to your space with a stylish, functional piece that’s built to last.
Photo credit: Cozey
Cozey’s commitment to convenience and quality shines through with the Naos Chair, as its performance fabric is not only pet-friendly but also easy to clean, making it a practical choice for busy households or pet owners. With free shipping, a 30-day risk-free trial, free shipping across the US and Canada, a 5-year warranty, and flexible financing options through Affirm, Cozey ensures accessibility without compromising on craftsmanship. Comes in Slate & Walnut and Fog & Oak. Retails for $395 at cozey.com.
TWOPAGES Curtains Rae Natural Ramie Flax Woven Wood Shades
Photo credit: TWOPAGES
TWOPAGES Curtains is a passionate team dedicated to providing high-quality, stylish, and customizable window treatments to your home office. They simplify the buying process with transparent pricing, easy measuring and ordering, and sustainable practices for over 600,000 families worldwide.
Photo credit: TWOPAGES
TWOPAGES Curtains’ Rae Natural Ramie Flax Woven Wood Shades are an exceptional choice for a home office, blending eco-friendly materials with an aesthetically pleasing design. Crafted from renewable bamboo, ramie, kenaf, and flax, these shades offer a natural, hand-woven texture that adds organic warmth and quiet elegance to any workspace. The customizable lift systems—cordless for easy operation or corded for precise control—make them ideal for adjusting light levels during video calls or focused work sessions. You have the option for privacy (50-75% shading) or blackout (96-100% shading) liners to provide optimal light control to reduce glare on screens and enhance productivity.
TWOPAGES Curtains’ Rae Natural Ramie Flax Woven Wood Shades are not only stylish but also practical for a home office setting. The cordless lift system eliminates entanglement risks, making it a safe choice for homes with children or pets, while the included no-drill mounting brackets (for shades 18-50 inches wide) simplify installation, saving you time. The high-quality construction, crafted on hand-fed looms, gives the peace of mind of longevity, and optional edge bindings protect the natural materials from wear. They are available in a variety of neutral tones like Brownish Green, Milk Tea, and Smoke White, to seamlessly complement a range of office aesthetics, from modern to coastal or French country. Retail starts at $129.99 at twopagescurtains.com.
CGHunter is a lifestyle brand renowned for its premium, handcrafted artificial plants and home decor, catering to home design enthusiasts and businesses alike. Their offerings are ideal for a home office, as they provide low-maintenance, aesthetically pleasing faux plants and accent pieces that enhance the workspace. These durable, beautifully crafted pieces add sophistication and tranquility that encourages productivity and complements any office style.
Photo credit: CGHunter
The CG Hunter Antique Brass Aluminum Accent Table is a sophisticated addition to any home office, crafted from durable aluminum with a warm antique brass finish. This 16” x 16” x 22” table offers a compact yet sturdy surface for essentials like a lamp, books, or decorative items such as CG Hunter’s faux plants, enhancing the workspace’s aesthetic. Its lightweight construction allows for easy repositioning, while the elegant, modern look adds a touch of luxury that elevates the office ambiance. Perfect for small spaces, this table provides a stylish, low-maintenance solution to keep your home office organized and visually appealing. Retails for $250 at cghunter.com.
Photo credit: CGHunter
The CG Hunter Square Braided Jute Ottoman Pouf is a handcrafted masterpiece from India, blending natural jute fibers with artisanal charm to elevate any home office. Its compact 20” x 20” x 16” design offers versatile functionality as a footrest, extra seating, or stylish accent, perfect for small workspaces. The pouf’s earthy tones and textured weave offer a lovely organic aesthetic promoting calm and focus for running a business. Durable and easy to maintain with simple spot cleaning, this pouf encourages effortless elegance to a home office. Retails for $150 at cghunter.com.
Levenger No-Room-For-A-Table Table
Photo credit: Levenger
Levenger, established in 1987, is a trusted brand dedicated to crafting high-quality tools and furnishings for readers, writers, and business owners alike. Renowned for its innovative, space-saving furniture and professional accessories, Levenger combines timeless craftsmanship with functional design to create products that inspire productivity and elegance. With a focus on premium materials and thoughtful design, Levenger’s furniture is built to last and seamlessly integrates into any home office. Levenger’s No-Room-for-a-Table Table is a part of their acclaimed space-saving collection and is a testament to this ethos, offering a compact yet versatile solution for small spaces.
The Levenger No-Room-for-a-Table Table, available in natural or dark cherry finishes, is an ideal addition to a home office due to its slender 24”W x 11”D x 24”H profile, perfect for tight spaces. Crafted from solid wood, this table arrives fully assembled and features a lift-up top with hidden hinges, revealing an oblong storage compartment ideal for stowing remotes, cables, or office essentials, keeping your workspace clutter-free. Its sturdy construction supports a small lamp or decor, encouraging a pleasing office aesthetic. Tried and true, customers praise its beautiful wood finish, heavy-duty hinges, and seamless integration with other cherry furniture, making it a functional and stylish choice. Retails for $299.95 at levenger.com.
HappyPatina Writing Kit Cover
Photo credit: HappyPatina
HappyPatina is a Spanish brand rooted in the artisanal leatherworking heritage of Dos Torres, crafting sustainable, vegetable-tanned leather goods that blend timeless craftsmanship with a commitment to meaningful, purpose-driven creation for your home office. The HappyPatina Writing Kit Cover is a standout accessory for a home office, providing a stylish and functional solution for organizing writing essentials. Handcrafted in Spain from high-quality, natural vegetable-tanned leather, this all-in-one travel kit features a pocket, pen slot, and space for a 6″ x 8″ notepad (not included), making it perfect for professionals.
The HappyPatina Writing Kit Cover’s slim 32.5 x 23.5 cm design slips easily into a bag, and the leather develops a unique patina over time, adding character and charm to your daily routine. The included leather care instructions—using saddle soap for cleaning, leather salve for softening, and leather oil for polishing—ensure the product remains in pristine condition, reflecting Happy Patina’s commitment to longevity. They stand behind their high-quality products with global shipping and a 100-day return policy. Retails for $124 at happypatina.com.
Tribest Backspin Contra-Rotating Impact Blender with Vacuum Technology
Photo credit: Tribest
Tribest, a California-based company with over 35 years of experience, is a leader in wellness appliances designed to simplify healthy living. Renowned for pioneering the Personal Blender, Tribest continues to innovate with products like juicers, dehydrators, and blenders that prioritize functionality and quality. The Tribest Backspin Contra-Rotating Impact Blender with Vacuum Technology (BSA-1) offering a revolutionary blending experience that enhances nutrition and convenience. The first of its kind, it spins the container opposite the blades to effortlessly process tough ingredients like nuts and frozen fruits without needing a tamper. You can blend whole ingredients, like apples, without lifting a finger!
The Tribest Backspin Blender with Vacuum Technology features a vacuum function to reduce oxidation, preserving the flavor, texture, and nutrients of smoothies, nut butters, or sauces—perfect for quick, healthy snacks during work hours. Its compact design fits neatly on a desk or side table, while the BPA-free vacuum tumbler accessory ensures blends stay fresh for on-the-go convenience. This blender’s quiet operation and minimal prep requirements make it a practical, stylish choice for maintaining wellness in a busy home office environment. You’ll also love that its sleek, modern aesthetic makes it a perfect fit for a home office, where style, efficiency and a healthy lifestyle are paramount. Retails for $499.95 at tribest.com.
Hooks & Lattice Real Copper Railing Planter
Photo credit: Hooks & Lattice
Hooks & Lattice is a premier provider of high-quality outdoor décor solutions, specializing in enhancing curb appeal with products like window boxes, planters, and railing accessories. With a focus on timeless elegance and modern durability, their extensive collection includes materials such as real copper, wrought iron, and more, catering to a variety of architectural styles and preferences. Known for their commitment to easy installation and long-lasting performance, Hooks & Lattice offers versatile mounting options and customizable sizes to transform home office patios into vibrant, welcoming spaces.
The Hooks & Lattice Real Copper Railing Planter is an exceptional addition to a home office, creating a refreshing and vibrant summer office atmosphere and inspiring you to take your work outdoors. Crafted from real copper, this planter develops a beautiful, natural patina over time, transitioning from a warm metallic sheen to a distinguished green. Its rust-resistant properties and ability to deter slugs and snails ensure low maintenance, while the copper’s trace minerals promote healthier plant growth, perfect for vibrant summer blooms or fresh herbs. Available in seven sizes (24″ to 72″) and equipped with heavy-duty, powder-coated steel brackets, it easily mounts to railings up to 2.5” or wood fences, offering versatile placement options for small or large home office spaces. Retails starts at $280 at hooksandlattice.com.
Electrohome Montrose Wireless Record Player Stereo System with 4″ McKinley Bluetooth Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Photo credit: Electrohome
Electrohome was founded in 1907 in Ontario, Canada and has over a century of expertise in crafting high-fidelity audio products, evolving from early phonographs to modern record players and speakers that blend retro aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. The Electrohome Montrose Wireless Turntable paired with McKinley Powered Bookshelf Speakers exemplifies this legacy, offering vinyl enthusiasts and casual listeners alike a seamless, high-quality audio experience engineered to deliver pure analog sound with modern conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity and vinyl-to-MP3 recording.
The Electrohome Montrose Wireless Turntable and McKinley Powered Bookshelf Speakers are a perfect addition to any home office as they’re compact with a versatile audio performance to enhance for an uplifting ambiance. The turntable’s belt-drive system, featuring a pre-installed Audio-Technica AT3600L cartridge, delivers warm, uncompressed sound for 33 and 45 RPM records Its Bluetooth 5.1 transmitter allows wireless streaming to the McKinley speakers or headphones, reducing cable clutter in a workspace. The McKinley speakers, with 1” silk tweeters and 4” woofers powered by a Class-D amplifier, provide crisp highs and deep bass, ideal for music, podcasts, or video calls, and their RCA and Aux-In inputs ensure compatibility with devices like computers or TVs. Options include a retro teak or black veneer and the set can come wired or wireless. Retails for $219.99 (wireless) at electrohome.com.
ScanSnap iX2500
Photo credit: RICOH
RICOH’s new ScanSnap iX2500 is a powerhouse for any home office, offering a robust set of features tailored to streamline document management. With its impressive scanning speed of up to 45 double-sided pages per minute and a 100-sheet automatic document feeder, it effortlessly handles large volumes of documents, from receipts to folded A3 pages. The ScanSnap iX2500’s stable paper feeding technology features a brake roller, ultrasonic multi-feed sensor, and skew detection, ensuring smooth, reliable scanning while protecting important documents.
For home office essentials, RICOH’s ScanSnap iX2500 stands out due to its user-friendly software, ScanSnap Home for PC, Mac, and mobile devices. The software simplifies scanning, classifying, and organizing various document types, including receipts and business cards. Its ability to create searchable PDFs and editable Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files makes it ideal for professionals managing diverse paperwork. You’ll love that ScanSnap iX2500 features a compact design, making it perfect for space-constrained home offices.
For intelligent image processing, the ScanSnap iX2500 features auto-facial orientation and red-eye reduction, so you can have high-quality uploads of 4″x6″ photos with minimal effort. The scanner’s color touch-screen interface allows users to select personalized profiles and destinations, making it intuitive for both individual and collaborative use. Additionally, its Wi-Fi connectivity and direct scan-to-cloud functionality enable seamless integration with popular cloud services without requiring a computer or mobile device. For peace of mind, RICOH offers its optional Depot Protection Plan, enabling reliable mail-in repair services. Retails for $459.99 at pfu-us.ricoh.com.
Vari 5-Tier Open Shelf
Photo credit: Vari
Vari is a leading provider of innovative, functional, and stylish office furniture solutions, perfect for both home and commercial environments. Founded with a mission to enhance productivity and comfort, Vari offers a wide range of products, including standing desks, storage solutions, and ergonomic accessories, all designed to meet rigorous durability standards like BIFMA X5.9-2019. Their commitment to quality, durability, and practicality is evident in the Vari 5-Tier Open Shelf, which seamlessly integrates into various settings, from executive offices to home workspaces.
The Vari 5-Tier Open Shelf is an exceptional home office essential due to its sturdy construction, versatile design, and space-saving functionality. With a robust steel frame and durable laminate shelving, it supports up to 350 pounds (70 pounds per tier), offering ample storage for books, decor, or office supplies. Its sleek, modern design, available in multiple finishes like ‘walnut’ or ‘light wood’, complements any workspace aesthetic. You’ll appreciate that the shelf offers an easy, hassle-free assembly, complete with an Allen Key and Hex Key Drill Bit, and anti-tip hardware for safety. Vari provides free shipping and easy returns within 30 days, so you can have the peace of mind that they stand behind their products. On sale now (Back-to-School Sale) for $356.15 at vari.com.
CP Slippers Tan Leather Slippers Minimalist
Photo credit: CP Slippers
CP Slippers’ Minimalist Tan Leather Slippers are a great home office essential because they provide lasting comfort to enhance productivity and style during long work-from-home hours. Handcrafted in Spain from 100% genuine tan vegetable-tanned leather sourced from the same region, these slippers offer a luxurious, barefoot-like feel with their soft, supple texture and natural materials. Designed without foam or synthetic barriers, they provide unmatched comfort and support, enveloping your feet in warmth while promoting a natural living experience. They come in many colors to match your preferences.
Crafted with precision by skilled Spanish artisans, CP Slippers embody quality and sustainability, packaged in 100% recycled cardboard to reflect their eco-conscious ethos. Easy to maintain with simple soap and water cleaning, followed by a leather conditioner, these slippers are built to last. The linen thread stitching and high-quality nubuck leather elevate their aesthetic, while the absence of synthetic materials fosters a connection to nature, aligning with CP Slippers’ mission to inspire a grounded, authentic lifestyle. CP Slippers stands behind a 100-day return policy and global shipping, giving you confidence and peace of mind in the brand. Retails for $66 at cpslippers.com.
CUCKOO 10″CordlessFoldableAirCirculator
Photo credit: CUCKOO
CUCKOO, a leading South Korean brand renowned for its innovative kitchen and home appliances, has been a trusted name in premium quality since establishing its North American presence in 2016. Known for its sleek designs and cutting-edge technology, CUCKOO delivers products that enhance everyday living with style and functionality.
The CUCKOO Cordless Foldable Air Circulator is a versatile addition to any home office, boasting up to 30 hours of cordless operation for flexible placement without the constraints of power cords. Its 10-inch, 7-blade design delivers powerful airflow at speeds up to 13.1 ft per second, ensuring efficient air circulation. With four wind modes (Eco, General, Sleep, Turbo) and 12 speed settings, plus a temperature sensor that adjusts fan speed based on surroundings, it provides customizable comfort tailored to your needs. The foldable, lightweight design and detachable parts make it easy to store, assemble, and clean, while the magnetic remote adds effortless control. You’ll love how stylish it is too! Retails for $169.99 at cuckooamerica.com.
ANNOVA Office Essentials
Photo credit: ANNOVA
ANNOVA is a California-based brand dedicated to creating vibrant, durable, and thoughtfully designed home essentials like desk organizers and globes that spark joy and personality. They bring color, functionality, and even sensory-friendly designs to enhance any home office.
The ANNOVA Antique Globe, with its 7.8-inch diameter and high-quality printing, offers a clear and enjoyable way to explore geographical details, making it a great resource for the home office. Its elegant design features a rich mahogany-colored wooden base and sturdy brass metal stand, adding a vintage charm that easily blends with various aesthetics. The globe’s smooth rotation on a robust stand ensures durability for daily use, making it an ideal home office essential for professionals seeking both a practical reference tool and a sophisticated decorative piece. Retails for $52.99 at annovame.com.
Photo credit: ANNOVA
ANNOVA is known for their fun and functional desk organizers, such as the ANNOVA Desk Organizer Wire Mesh 3 Tier Sliding Drawers Paper. A stylish and functional addition to any home office, this desk organizer features three spacious drawers designed to hold A4-sized papers, files, notebooks, and other essentials. It is crafted from durable, high-quality mesh metal, measures 14 x 10 x 7 inches and is available in vibrant colors like turquoise, hot pink, and gold, adding a pop of personality to your workspace. This organizer is a great home office essential, as it maximizes space, reduces clutter, and brings a fashionable, organized vibe to your daily work routine. Retails for $39.99 at annovame.com.
Photo credit: ANNOVA
Another great option is the ANNOVA Mesh Rotatable Desk Organizer with 5 Compartments 360° because every organized desk needs a place to hold pens, pencils, scizzors, and more! This desk organizer features a 360° rotation design for easy access to pens, pencils, scissors, and other essentials. It measures 6.5 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches, a sturdy mesh metal construction, and is available in colors like light purple, turquoise, and gold. The five spacious compartments keep your workspace tidy, while the easy-to-clean material ensures long-lasting pristine condition. Retails for $24.99 at annovame.com.
Quartet® Glass Magnetic Desktop Dry-Erase Panel, White, 17″ x 23″
Photo credit: Quartet
Quartet, a trusted brand under ACCO Brands, has been a leader in the visual communication industry for decades, known for delivering innovative and high-quality workplace solutions like dry-erase boards, bulletin boards, and easels. The Quartet® Glass Magnetic Desktop Dry-Erase Panel, measuring 17″ x 23″, is an ideal addition to a home office, offering a sleek and functional solution for brainstorming, note-taking, and organizing tasks. This frameless, frost-colored tempered glass panel is designed for durability, resisting scratches and dents even with heavy daily use, making it perfect for moderate to heavy workloads in personal office settings.
Quartet’s Glass Magnetic Dry-Erase Panel features a magnetic surface allowing users to securely post notes or documents using high-power glass board magnets (sold separately), while the exceptional erasability ensures a clean, streak-free surface for clear communication. With a built-in accessory tray and included accessories, this board enhances workspace efficiency. You’ll love that its GREENGUARD Gold Certification guarantees low VOC emissions, making it safe for environments like home offices. Retails for $135.64 at quartet.com.
uniball™ Jetstream Prime Twist, Ballpoint Pen
Photo credit: uniball™
Uniball, a leading brand under Mitsubishi Pencil Co., is renowned for its innovative, high-quality writing instruments, making it a trusted choice for professionals seeking reliable and elegant pens. uniball™ Jetstream Prime Twist Ballpoint Pen is an excellent addition to a home office, offering a professional design with a sleek metal barrel and a smooth, retractable mechanism. Its uni JETSTREAM hybrid ink, combining the fluidity of gel with the precision of a ballpoint, delivers crisp, smear-free lines in a dense black color, ideal for note-taking, signing documents, or journaling without fading or fraud risks. The 0.7 mm point size and quick-drying ink make it perfect for left-handed writers, while the low-viscosity solvent ensures a frictionless writing experience. Retails for $24.99 at uniballbrands.co.
As summer draws to a close, The Haunted Mansion at Disneyland prepares for Jack Skellington to take over with his spooky Christmas mashup through the end of the year holidays. But the ghostly retreat evokes Halloween all year long and has become a Disney Store staple for collections inspired by the beloved attraction.
With the latest Haunted Mansion merch drop, you can bring some of the spectral energy of the ride home for your seasonal fall decor. Two of the most standout pieces from the collection are the Disney Store light-up stretching portrait icon figures by artist and product design manager Steve Thompson. The incredibly detailed statues look like animation come to life, depicting tightrope walker Sarah Sally Slater over her crocodile and the Dynamite Gentleman on his precarious barrel.
io9 recently caught up with Thompson, who shared original concept art of the figures with us, to discuss his process for the figures and his relationship with Disneyland as it celebrates 70 years.
Sabina Graves, io9: Could you elaborate on the inspiration behind your unique interpretation of the Sally and Dynamite Gentleman figures?
Steve Thompson: I’ve been a fan of Haunted Mansion since my very first trip to Disneyland back in 1980. One of my favorite rooms in the attraction is, of course, the stretching room and its portraits. As with any new project, I never want to repeat myself. We have done some very cool collectibles, ornaments, and artwork of these characters in the past that stay very true to the portrait characters as you know them. So, for me the challenge was, how do we portray these characters in a new way?
The portraits in the stretching room have been painted by different artists over the years. As a result, the way they look has also changed. My approach with the design of these figurines was to honor that tradition and draw them as I see them. It all started with my initial sketches. I would say my biggest inspiration or jumping-off point was the original paintings by Disney legend Marc Davis. His paintings were fun and a little eerie at the same time—there was magic in the eyes!
When an attraction has been around for as long as Haunted Mansion has, the challenge is giving Haunted Mansion fans something they haven’t seen before. I wanted the poses of the characters to be similar to the portraits in the attraction, but not exactly how you remember them. Almost as if you are catching a slightly different moment from the same portrait session, something as unique as the mansion itself. I hope fans enjoy this take on some of their favorite characters!
io9: What has been your personal connection to Disneyland and The Haunted Mansion over the years?
Thompson: I grew up going to Disneyland, and like many who grew up in California, the park was always an inspiration to me. It is truly a magical place. I knew from a very young age that I wanted to work for Disney as an artist, and being able to visit the park on a regular basis helped keep that dream alive for me. I can say I have been incredibly lucky to be doing just that for the past 31 years! Haunted Mansion to me is one of the all-time great Disney attractions; every detail is perfect. I still feel like after all these years there is always something new to discover.
io9: In what ways have Disney Parks served as one of your earliest fandoms, and how has that influenced your career path as a designer?
Thompson: Growing up visiting the Disney Parks made me feel like anything is possible. The parks were a safe space for me to dream and imagine. You can see the love, talent, and craftsmanship that has gone into every detail. As a designer, I always keep in mind that I am just one of a long line of artists that have helped keep these characters and stories alive over the years. It comes with great responsibility and a true love for the source material.
Some of my favorite recent memories of the parks are the times I’m there on my own after an art signing or work meeting, making my way through the park and seeing things I’ve helped create being sold in the stores. It’s something I always dreamed about as a kid. And the park brings out that kid in me that can take a step back and appreciate that. It always makes me excited to see what we’re going to design next!
io9: Beyond the specific figures, are there any other aspects of The Haunted Mansion and spooky season at the parks that particularly resonate with you creatively?
Thompson: As a kid I wanted to live in the Haunted Mansion—I also wanted the caterpillar ride vehicle from Alice in Wonderland to be my car! Haunted Mansion to me is a must-stop every time I am at the park. Besides the great characters and music, I love the architecture; no detail was overlooked in its creation. It’s something only Disney could do; going on the ride at night is just about as magical as it gets, and for me as a designer, those conditions are perfect for finding my next bit of inspiration. You never know what we’ll do next. Stay tuned.
Call of Duty Season 5 arrives to Black Ops 6 and Warzone in August, and Activision has officially announced what to expect. Players can expect a new battle pass, more maps, DLC weapons to unlock, and the final Zombies map for Black Ops 6, among other things in the massive update.
Call of Duty Season 5 start times
Based on the Season 4 battle pass timer, Call of Duty Season 5 should arrive on August 7–this date was subsequently confirmed by Activision. The seasonal updates usually go live around 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET / 5 PM BST across all platforms.
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There are a bunch of new weapons coming to Black Ops 6 and Warzone with the Season 5 update as well. Check out the gallery below to learn about all the new weapons and attachments.
Black Ops 6
The Season 5 update brings many new maps and modes to Black Ops 6 multiplayer, including the brand-new maps Runaway and Exchange, along with a remaster of WMD and Jackpot, which Activision said was “inspired” by Black Ops 4. Some of the new modes include “Aim High,” which is a headshot-training mode that gives instant eliminations for headshots. Snipers Only, meanwhile, returns in Season 5, as does Cranked Moshpit. There is a new Scorestreak, too, in the form of “Combat Bow.” This fires a single-shot, explosive-tipped arrow that explodes on impact and does incendiary damage.
Zombies
As for Zombies, the most recent Call of Duty podcast episode confirmed the final map will launch with Season 5. It’s Reckoning–and you can see the key art below.
This brings a conclusion to the ongoing storyline for Black Ops 6 Zombies. Following the events of Season 3’s Shattered Veil main quest, the Zombies crew and Edward Richtofen will face off against S.A.M. in a setting that takes place in or around the Janus Towers location of Liberty Falls.
Warzone
The biggest update for Warzone in Season 5 is the Stadium’s rooftop opening up to include playable areas inside. Activision is also debuting a new mode, Stadium Resurgence. A 36-player mode, Stadium Resurgence is described as a “rapid action mode” where the skirmishes come fast on a smaller section of the overall map focused on the stadium itself. The mode debuts during the second full week of Season 5.
The publisher also teased something bigger for the stadium, saying a “massive disruption across Verdansk is imminent,” along with an image of a red beam shooting down from the sky.
“Recon teams have confirmed the existence of a clandestine military base hidden within the sealed walls of the National Acropolis Arena. The extent of the threat remains unclear, though a weapon capable of large-scale destruction is expected to be unearthed within the vicinity,” Activision said.
Something is going down in Warzone.
Additionally, Warzone is getting a new contract called Satellite Hijack. For this contract, players must breach the stadium in the “most impressively explosive way possible.” Activision’s blog post about this contract contains redacted sections that suggests the contract has some narrative ramifications that Activision does not want people to know about ahead of time. One of the redacted sections pertains to an award that players and their squadmates will receive for completing the contract.
Something mysterious is in store.
Black Ops 7 is officially announced, and a full reveal is scheduled for Gamescom Opening Night Live next month, but it’s possible there could still be some sort of in-game Warzone event tied to the big announcement. Warzone events have been used in the past to create hype around new Call of Duty releases.
In today’s hyper-connected world, it might seem like your next great website could come from anywhere. But when your business is rooted in Toronto, there’s a clear advantage to working with a team that calls this city home. From understanding the local market to providing in-person support, partnering with a local website development company in Toronto is a smart investment in your brand’s long-term growth.
Understanding the Local Market Inside Out
No two cities are alike — and that goes double for a thriving, diverse market like Toronto. Local developers bring first-hand knowledge of the city’s unique business climate, neighbourhood demographics, and even cultural nuances that can shape how your website connects with your audience. Whether you’re targeting downtown startups, North York families, or East End creatives, a local partner helps you build digital experiences that feel relevant and authentic.
Clearer Communication and Real Collaboration
Time zones matter more than we think — so does the ability to meet face-to-face when it counts. With a local development team, you can brainstorm ideas over coffee, review progress in real time, and solve roadblocks quickly. This clear line of communication often shortens timelines and eliminates misunderstandings that can come with remote-only collaborations. Better collaboration means a smoother project — and a stronger final product.
Supporting Local Talent Strengthens the Community
Investing in local services doesn’t just benefit your business — it keeps talent and expertise circulating within Toronto’s vibrant digital ecosystem. By hiring local designers, developers, and project managers, you’re putting money back into your community and contributing to a thriving tech scene. This ripple effect fosters innovation and keeps standards high, benefitting every business owner in the city.
In-Person Training and Ongoing Support
Launching your new site is only the beginning. Many businesses underestimate the value of in-person training and support when it’s time to hand over the keys. A local team can meet your staff to train them on your new CMS, help troubleshoot technical hiccups, or even come to your office for an in-depth workshop. This is a level of service you simply can’t get from offshore providers.
Local SEO: Built In, Not Bolted On
Ranking well in local search results isn’t an afterthought — it’s essential for any Toronto business wanting to be found by real people nearby. A local development company weaves local SEO best practices directly into your site’s design and structure from day one. They understand what it takes to stand out on the city’s competitive digital map, from geo-specific keywords to locally relevant schema and Google Business Profile integration.
Accountability You Can Count On
When you hire someone down the street, they’re part of your business network — and your reputation is in good hands. Local developers stake their reputation on every project they deliver. They’re more invested in long-term partnerships, repeat work, and positive word-of-mouth in your neighbourhood. This built-in accountability is invaluable compared to the risk of working with a distant, unknown contractor.
Keeping Up With Toronto’s Digital Trends
Web design isn’t static — it evolves constantly, especially in a dynamic city like Toronto where new businesses pop up every day. A local team is plugged into emerging design trends, compliance regulations, and shifts in how Toronto’s consumers browse and buy. They bring this up-to-date insight to your project, so your site doesn’t just launch strong — it stays relevant for years.
Building Trust With Local Clients
Potential clients often check who built your site — and where they’re based. Showcasing that you partnered with a trustedwebsite development company in Toronto sends a message that you care about quality, reliability, and community. It’s a subtle but powerful trust signal that can make your business stand out from out-of-town competitors.
Give Your Business the Local Edge
While the digital world can shrink borders, your business doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Partnering with a local team means your website is shaped by real insight, real conversations, and real accountability. The result? A digital presence that feels true to your brand, connects deeply with your community, and gives you an undeniable edge in Toronto’s busy market.
Looking to take the next step? Start local — your audience will thank you.
Tons of options for healthy smoothies, soups and bowls
Ordering is easy and intuitive
Cons
Some of the meals I tried were bland and boring
Expensive, especially for smoothies and soup
Some portions are on the small side
Fruit smoothies were often too sweet for me
Carving out extra time during a hectic week doesn’t have to be a major overhaul — it’s all about stacking small time-saving wins. The more shortcuts you find, the more space you free up for movies, exercise or just catching your breath. One of my favorite tricks? A solid meal cheat code. Splendid Spoon, a popular plant-based meal delivery service, is exactly that. It stocks your fridge with ready-to-eat, superfood-packed meals and snacks, perfect for those days when cooking just isn’t in the cards.
Splendid Spoon makes mealtime easy for plant-based eaters.
David Watsky/CNET
While some meal delivery is suited for dinner, this meal delivery subscription feels more tailored to breakfast and lunch. To see how Splendid Spoon stacks up in a crowded field with dozens of healthy prepared meal delivery operations, I tried two weeks’ worth of Splendid meals, including the brand’s signature superfood smoothies, juices, grain and noodle bowls, soups and snacks. I also had our wellness editor, Anna Gragert, a vegetarian of 20 years who often eats plant-based, try the brand’s 5-Day Detox, which includes soups, smoothies, shots and dishes along with intermittent fasting. She didn’t follow the exact plan but instead sought to try all the offerings.
While Splendid Spoon proves a little pricey for what you get and isn’t my top pick in the healthy meal delivery category, I found most of the food good or better. I can see why many have come to rely on this subscription service as a no-fuss way to keep nourished and think Splendid Spoon is worth a try, especially if you take advantage of the deep discount for new customers.
Here’s how Splendid Spoon works and what we thought of the healthy, vegan meal delivery service.
A colorful collection of Splendid Spoon bowls and beverages.
David Watsky/CNET
How does Splendid Spoon work?
As with most meal delivery services, Splendid Spoon is a subscription service so deliveries will keep coming every week unless you pause or cancel, which you can do at any time. To get started, you’ll pick a meal plan menu of either seven, 14 or 21 meals per week. The more meals you choose per week, the cheaper they’ll be, with the 21-meal plan costing about $10.80 a meal (not including the introductory discount) and the seven-meal plan costing more like $14 per meal, plus $13 for shipping. The two larger plans include free shipping.
Splendid Spoon offers three basic plans.
Splendid Spoon/Screenshot by CNET
After you select your plan you’ll pick your meals, choosing smoothies, grain bowls, soups and noodle dishes depending on what your subscription includes. Meals are delivered to you chilled — not frozen — on Wednesday or Friday of each week. For Wednesday deliveries, you must place your order by 1 p.m. PT on Thursday. For Friday deliveries, the cutoff is 1 p.m. PT on Sunday. As of now, Splendid Spoon delivers only to the lower 48 states.
Splendid Spoon has some interesting smoothie recipes. Some flavor combos worked better than others.
David Watsky/CNET
On any given week’s menu, you’ll have about 65 meals to choose from, including more than 20 smoothies, with sweeter options like blueberry coconut and more savory blends like carrot ginger and power greens. There are also a dozen or so grain and rice bowls and about 20 soups, along with heartier rice and noodle bowls.
What are Splendid Spoon meals like?
All the food is 100% vegan (no meat, dairy or animal byproducts) and gluten-free. The recipes are made with lots of healthy fruits, vegetables and superfoods like kale, spinach, beans and whole grains. The website says about 95% of the food is organic and that it’s 100% GMO-free.
There’s no shortage of interesting smoothie flavors to choose from, many of them packed with superfoods such as almond butter, kale and goji berries.
Splendid Spoon/Screenshot by CNET
Much of the food is what I’d categorize as healthy food with a good deal of global culinary influence. Think brown rice taco bowl with beans and tomato salsa, or cauliflower tikka masala soup. You won’t find many soy-based meat substitutes; these are mostly whole ingredients. Portions aren’t huge but they aren’t skimpy either, in keeping with the idea of healthy, balanced eating.
Before choosing any item, you can see the full ingredient list and nutritional information. You can also filter for more specific dietary needs, such as high-fiber, low-carb and high-protein foods.
My Splendid Spoon bowls were a little hit or miss, but most made for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
David Watsky/CNET
What we tried and how we liked it
I’ll preface my critique of Splendid Spoon’s smoothies by saying I make a lot of smoothies at home and so I can be particular. Because Splendid Spoon smoothies are preblended, they’re a bit more like juices to drink and don’t have that creamy, frozen texture I’m used to. Beyond the main ingredients, each one is fortified with healthy superfoods like chia seeds, hemp seeds and pea protein. These additions don’t alter the flavor dramatically but deliver dense nutrients and antioxidants.
Smoothies
Strawberry and goji berry with cashew butter: This was just OK. A bit sour for my taste.
Carrot and ginger with mango and dates: An excellent smoothie, with savory and sweet elements in perfect harmony. Anna agrees and especially enjoyed the zing offered by the ginger.
The carrot-ginger smoothie was tangy, tasty and not too sweet.
David Watsky/CNET
Power greens: This green juice smoothie is loaded with good stuff, including organic hemp seeds, chia seeds, spirulina, pea protein and kale. The banana and coconut balanced all the vegetable components with just enough sweetness. Anna, on the other hand, found the addition of lemon to give the smoothie a salad dressing-like taste, but still appreciated all the ingredients individually.
Banana, flax and almonds: I make a nut butter and banana smoothie most mornings. This was different, and the lemon gave it a bright zing, but I still prefer my freshly blended version. This also wasn’t Anna’s favorite smoothie, as it was a bit tart with a texture that she didn’t love.
The green smoothies taste more like cold-pressed juices.
David Watsky/CNET
Blueberry and coconut with acai and cinnamon: Another very good smoothie. The cinnamon and vanilla made it sing.
Blue Majik smoothie with banana, dates, vanilla and cinnamon: A bit sweeter than the smoothies I’m used to, but still extremely tasty and satisfying. Anna also enjoyed this one.
Tasty and a fun color to boot.
Anna Gragert/CNET
Dragon fruit berry with pineapple juice, raspberries and avocado: Anna enjoyed the combination of pineapple, dragonfruit and raspberry, especially in smoothie form, as it was an easy way to get in some fruit.
Mint chip with Swiss chard, banana and almond butter: This was one of Anna’s favorite smoothies, as it tasted like a chocolate-mint dessert. She especially appreciated the extra iron and fiber.
This one tasted like a chocolate-mint dessert.
Anna Gragert/CNET
Hidden greens smoothie with kale, almond butter and banana: Anna preferred this greens smoothie over the Power Greens one, as the vanilla and cinnamon gave it a sweeter, less savory flavor.
Cacao almond smoothie with almond butter, vanilla and cacao: This was another smoothie Anna enjoyed with its simple ingredients and sweeter flavor profile.
Noodle and rice bowls
The fried tofu in this korma bowl was predictably tough and chewy.
David Watsky/CNET
Fried tofu korma with peas: Reheated cooked tofu is often chewy and tough. Unfortunately, Splendid Spoon hasn’t solved the puzzle.
Kale-pesto noodles with roasted tomatoes and vegan meatballs: A flavorful vegan pesto over al dente noodles. One of the better noodle bowls I tried.
The gluten-free vegan meatballs were one of the best meals I tried.
David Watsky/CNET
Dan dan noodles with bok choy and peppercorn: This noodle dish was packed with Sichuan flavors and had nice heat. The noodles were chewy and not mushy, just the way I like them.
Creamy mushroom and spinach noodles: This rich noodle dish was 100% dairy-free but still satisfied my craving for a creamy alfredo.
I reheated most of Splendid Spoon’s rice and noodle bowls in a nonstick skillet, which I find gets better results than the microwave.
David Watsky/CNET
Coconut curry rice: This was really tasty. Anna found that the rice was nicely cooked, chickpeas and greens were a great addition, and the curry sauce was delicious. This was also a good source of fiber and iron.
A delicious combination of ingredients with the curry sauce.
Anna Gragert/CNET
Kimchi fried quinoa: This dish was a good source of fiber and protein but it was Anna’s least favorite out of the three. It was just a bit too spicy for her personal taste.
Wild rice ragout: Anna liked the mix of grains (wild rice and quinoa), which paired nicely with the veggies and tomato sauce. It was also low in calories, fat and carbs.
Anna Gragert/CNET
Soups
Cauliflower tikka soup: I really liked this one. Light but full of warm Indian spice. Anna agrees.
The cauliflower tikka soup was definitely a winner.
David Watsky/CNET
Spiced lentil and chickpea soup:Solid but not terribly flavorful for a soup that is billed as “spiced.”
Fennel consommé with dill: The bright fennel was overpowering and the only thing I could taste. I didn’t enjoy this one very much.
I found the fennel consommé a bit bland and boring.
David Watsky/CNET
Lentil kale soup: A delicious mix of lentils, kale and spices, this soup packed a flavorful punch.
Garden minestrone soup: Filled with tomatoes, zucchini and kale, this soup tasted fresh and offered a nice mix of ingredients.
Red lentil dal soup: This 350-calorie soup was a good source of fiber (10g) and protein (17g) while offering a comforting flavor.
A comforting, hearty dal.
Anna Gragert/CNET
Tomato quinoa chili: Tasty and satisfying, this was low-calorie at 290 calories and not as salty as some chili can be,
Green split pea soup: Tarragon and mint gave this soup a unique flavor different from other pea soups Anna has tried. It was also a good source of potassium and iron.
The tarragon and mint were nice additions.
Anna Gragert/CNET
Cauliflower potato soup: Anna was expecting this soup to be bland, but was pleasantly surprised by the addition of great northern beans, which added flavor and made the soup more filling.
Kabocha congee soup: While this soup was tasty, it was high in saturated fat (75% of the daily value) likely caused by the addition of coconut milk. However, if you’re following the 5-Day Detox exactly, this shouldn’t be a problem.
Beans and greens soup: As promised in the title, this was a great mix of beans and greens. Another hearty soup.
A great way to get in your greens.
Anna Gragert/CNET
Black eye pea stew: A good source of iron, the black eyed peas in this stew were especially tasty.
Butternut turmeric soup: While the flavor was good (the orange zest was especially fun), Anna does wish this soup had more ingredients to make it heartier and more filling.
Masala khichri soup: Anna loved this soup with the addition of okra. The rice made it feel hearty and wholesome.
The okra was perfection.
Anna Gragert/CNET
Butternut ratatouille soup: The tomato broth paired nicely with the butternut squash and kale.
Golden milk oats: This was the only oat-based dish in the detox and Anna thought it was tasty, especially with the addition of blackberries, almonds and cardamom.
Wellness shots, various: My order came with five free wellness shots. I especially liked the watermelon, beet and ginger “recovery” shot, but all of them were tasty and went down smoothly. Anna also enjoyed her five wellness shots as part of the 5-Day Detox plan. She especially liked the blackberry-elderberry Immunity Shot and ginger-orange-lemon Wellness Shot.
The ginger paired nicely with the orange and lemon.
Anna Gragert/CNET
How to prepare Splendid Spoon meals
The drinks come completely ready to drink. They’re also good to pop into the freezer if you need more time to get through them. The soups and bowls can be microwaved but I suggest reheating them gently in a saucepan or nonstick skillet. This method always produces more even heating and reduces the chance that you’ll overcook the food.
Anna’s soups instructed her to rinse the package under warm water for about 30 seconds but sometimes it took more than that. After, she popped the soup in a microwave-safe dish and microwaved while covering for the recommended amount of time.
The brown rice curry bowl with kale and chickpeas was short on flavor.
David Watsky/CNET
Is Splendid Spoon healthy?
Our wellness editor found her meals to be healthy with no surprising nutrition facts. However, she emphasizes that anyone who is changing their diet in any way or planning to detox should speak with their doctor beforehand.
Who is Splendid Spoon good for?
Because the food is truly ready to eat, Splendid Spoon is perfect for anyone looking to cut cooking — or even blending — completely out of the equation for a few meals per week.
The food is all gluten-free and vegan, so it’s a good choice for anyone adhering to those diets. The portions aren’t huge so if you’re trying to cut total calories per week, this meal delivery service might help. Splendid Spoon is also very Whole30-friendly if you’re looking to eat less processed food and meals with more natural ingredients.
Anna Gragert/CNET
This is also a good option for habitual smoothie and juice drinkers looking to mix up their recipes and flavors but who don’t feel like shopping for all the ingredients needed to make them.
Anna agrees. For those looking for a detox program, the 5-Day Detox could potentially be a good option, as long as you speak with your doctor about it beforehand to make sure you’re getting what you need from this plan. For instance, some may not get enough calories, as these plans are not one-size-fits-all.
Splendid Spoon typically has a deep new customer discount. You should definitely take advantage of it.
Splendid Spoon/Screenshot by CNET
Who is Splendid Spoon not as good for?
If you have a smoothie routine that you have down to a science, the Splendid Spoon smoothies might feel like a slight downgrade. Yes, you’ll taste new recipes and interesting flavor combinations but they’re more like juices in texture.
Because the food is all vegan, this isn’t a good pick for anyone who craves meat for breakfast and lunch or other protein-dense foods such as eggs. Because a lot of the smoothies contain fruit (sugar) and the bowls have grains, beans and noodles, this isn’t the ideal meal delivery for someone keeping to a low-carb or keto plan, either.
How much does Splendid Spoon cost?
For plans with 14 or 21 meals per week, the price per meal nets out to about $11 or $12 per serving. That seems like an OK deal for the rice and noodle bowls, but a bit steep for a smoothie or one serving of soup. If you choose just seven meals per week, you’ll pay a whopping $14 per meal and an additional $13 for shipping — definitely not a good value.
Splendid Spoon pricing is on par with plant-based competitors like Daily Harvest. My favorite plant-based meal delivery service, Mosaic Foods, is a few bucks cheaper at about $9 per meal.
Of the meal delivery services I’ve tried, Splendid Spoon has some of the most eco-friendly packaging.
David Watsky/CNET
Packaging and eco-friendliness
The drinks, soups and bowls are all packaged in recyclable plastic. Splendid Spoon also uses dry ice instead of ice packs, which are rarely fully recyclable. The cooler box is also made from recyclable materials. Pound for pound this is one of the most eco-friendly meal delivery services I’ve tested. The bowl containers are also reusable, with tight-fitting lids and sturdy plastic. They might not survive a hot dishwasher but they’re certainly good for a few hand washes.
For Anna’s meal trays, she was instructed to peel the plastic away from the cardboard base, wash the plastic off and recycle both. However, all curbside recycling depends on what your local recycling facility accepts.
Should you try Splendid Spoon? Our final verdict
In my second go-round with Splendid Spoon, my feelings about the healthy subscription service remain largely unchanged (hey, there’s something to be said for consistency). Splendid Spoon smoothies, soups and meals are solid and mostly good but rarely great, made from healthy ingredients and largely free of allergens. There are enough recipe options to keep things interesting, with plenty of flavor combos for adventurous and safe eaters alike. At $11 to $14 per meal, Splendid Spoon feels pricey for a single smoothie or soup and the better value can be had by ordering more full meals such as the vegan, gluten-free noodles and rice bowls.
Anna agrees. Although she didn’t follow the 5-Day Detox program she received, she did try all the meals and smoothies and found them to be tasty. However, anyone looking to follow any sort of detox program should consult their doctor first.
Splendid Spoon vs. the competition
Daily Harvest vs. Splendid Spoon
If you don’t mind a few minutes of smoothie prep, I might recommend Daily Harvest, which sends all the ingredients diced, frozen and ready to be blended with milk. If it’s just the soups and bowls you’re after, Splendid Spoon has a host of pleasant lunches or light dinners to choose from each week. They arrive fresh and ready to be eaten or popped in the freezer, saving you precious time during the morning and afternoon.
Mosiac Foods vs. Splendid Spoon
For bigger eaters looking for full meals that are more dinner-friendly, there are better plant-based services out there. Mosaic Foods is my No. 1 pick, featuring more interesting food for a slightly lower price per meal (and even cheaper if you choose family meals). Mosaic Foods recipes were more interesting and the food was very filling and well-prepared.
Let’s own up to it: the construction and architecture business was once a sort of sloppy beast. Piles of blueprints, miscommunication, revisions ad infinitum—playing a game of never-ending telephone, except with steel, concrete, and multi-million-dollar contracts. Along came BIM—short for Building Information Modeling services—a name that sounds ominously like something your IT guys might grumble about, but actually changed the entire AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) business.
BIM isn’t software. It’s not simply a 3D model. And it’s certainly not some new acronym to bandy about during client presentations to appear clever. Consider BIM like the digital DNA of a building—an intelligent system that allows your building to come to life before a single brick is placed. But let’s not jump ahead of ourselves. To comprehend the basics of BIM and exactly what Cad Crowd’s model design services at BIM firms really do, let’s first take a look under the digital hood.
🚀 Table of contents
What exactly is BIM?
Ask ten people to explain BIM, and you’ll likely hear everything from tech buzzwords to puzzled guesses. But here’s the clear truth: Building Information Modeling (BIM) is not just fancy software or 3D design—it’s a smart, collaborative process that spans the entire life of a building. From that first doodle on a café napkin to the day the wrecking ball swings, BIM helps manage it all.
So, how is BIM different from conventional design software? It’s much more than simply drawing lines and shapes. Imagine designing a skyscraper. Rather than merely writing static blueprints, you’re creating a dynamic, digital model that holds actual information. That model is aware of the wall thickness, the type of material the insulation is composed of, the weight of the steel beams, the flow of the HVAC system, and even the duration of the construction.
Every component in that model, every beam, light fixture, and duct, contains embedded information. This is where it gets truly powerful: everything is interconnected. Changing the window size or altering materials updates the entire system. Floor plans, elevations, cost estimates, and material lists are all updated automatically.
That’s the real benefit of BIM: coordination in real time, better decisions, fewer errors, and improved communication among architects, engineering firms, contractors, and owners. It makes buildings smart systems before they are constructed—and that is not only smart, it’s revolutionary.
BIM modeling design services: What do these companies actually do?
Picture yourself stepping onto a construction site—except that instead of concrete and steel, it’s constructed of blocks and Legos. It’s more data, more precision, and a detailed virtual model that’s aware of everything in the building, from the last bolt to the last duct. That’s the environment in which Building Information Modeling (BIM) design service providers work. They’re essentially a combination of virtual architects, engineers, and project managers, with high-powered modeling software that allows them to model every aspect of a building prior to the laying of a single brick.
At the center of it all is the model itself—a highly detailed, multi-faceted digital twin of the future building. Rather than using two-dimensional blueprints, stakeholders can navigate an intelligent, dynamic model that recounts the entire narrative: how everything is connected, how much it will cost, when it will be constructed, and how it will perform in the long term.
They begin by creating precise 3D models that encompass architectural, structural, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) systems. They then perform clash detection—pinpointing any clashes or overlaps before they turn into costly on-site problems. That model also does math, generating correct quantity takeoffs and estimates so budgets remain on target.
Then comes construction sequencing, where timelines are visualized in 4D, allowing teams to plan who does what, when, and how. Tack on 5D cost modeling and even 6D facility management integration, and you’re looking at a full lifecycle digital roadmap—from the initial design concept to long-term building maintenance for architectural design firms.
So, what exactly do BIM companies do? They add clarity to complexity. They transform static plans into smart models. And perhaps most importantly, they enable everyone from architects to building owners to make smarter, faster decisions every step along the way.
3D modeling: Drawing with brains
2D CAD drawings were all the rage, but using them now is like having a flip phone when everyone else has smartphones. That’s where 3D modeling comes in—not merely an aesthetic boost, but an intelligent design revolution. With Building Information Modeling (BIM) software such as Revit, ArchiCAD, and Navisworks, projects aren’t simply drawn; they’re built digitally with intelligence.
These 3D models are more than nice pictures. They’re high-information environments where each piece of information knows who it is, what it does, and how it relates to the larger system. A wall isn’t a wall—it knows its material make-up, thickness, price, and even how much paint it will take. HVAC systems know their air flow requirements. Structural members report their load capacity and cost per square meter.
The great news? Everything is linked. Alter one component—a wall extension, for example—and everybody’s information updates instantly. Architects, engineers, interior design experts, and quantity surveyors are in sync without a problem. No yucky back-and-forth, no mistakes from miscommunication. Just smooth collaboration fueled by intelligent modeling.
It’s not sorcery. It’s BIM at its finest—transferring conventional drafting to a dynamic, smart process that thinks as intently as it draws.
Clash detection: The digital bouncer
Envision your HVAC duct run right through a structural beam. In conventional construction, this type of clash would not reveal itself until tradespeople were already onsite, leading to eleventh-hour redesigns, growing frustration, and colorful outbursts. Better times are quickly disappearing thanks to Building Information Modeling (BIM).
BIM brings a proactive solution with a process known as clash detection. BIM coordination software blends architectural, structural, and MEP models into one digital space. They then behave like a hyper-vigilant referee, flagging items immediately that are on a crash course, long before materials are ordered or boots touch the ground.
This isn’t merely a matter of catching errors; it’s optimizing workflows. By pinpointing and fixing problems early on, clash detection eliminates the expensive delays and rework. The payoff? Smoother schedules, lower stress, and way happier clients.
Consider clash detection the virtual bouncer at the front door of your construction site—preventing conflict before it even enters. For BIM modeling firms, it’s one of their strongest value-adds, converting what used to be a building nightmare into a clever, effective collaboration. And the beauty of being able to do all this is that none of it takes place until after the first wall has been constructed.
4D BIM: Construction sequencing for control freaks (In a good way)
If you’ve ever witnessed a building site go from nothing to utter chaos in seven days, you’ll know why timetabling is crucial. 4D BIM brings time into the model. This enables teams to model the build process step by step, day by day, demonstrating precisely how the building will be constructed—foundations first, followed by the steel frame, then glass curtain walls, then interior glitz.
This isn’t for entertainment purposes only, although seeing it happen is strangely pleasing. It enables project managers to identify inefficiencies, schedule deliveries, steer clear of scheduling conflicts, and facilitate trades with a level of precision that would make a Swiss watch blush.
5D BIM: The dollar signs
You know that moment when someone asks, “What’s this going to cost?” and the room falls silent? Not anymore. With 5D BIM, cost is no longer an afterthought. Every component in the model is tied to a cost item, meaning your beautiful 3D model is also a walking, talking, budget-tracking machine.
Curious about the cost-effectiveness of going from conventional glazing to high-performance glass? BIM informs you. Curious about aluminum panels vs. concrete cladding? BIM compares the numbers from 3D modeling design services and beyond. It turns guesswork into confidence. And that’s priceless—literally.
Designing and constructing is only the start. What about sustaining the building during the subsequent 30 years? BIM doesn’t end when the ribbon is cut. 6D BIM incorporates facility management information—such as warranties, maintenance schedules, and asset information—directly into the model. The structure is now a digital twin: an active representation of the actual building that grows with it over time.
7D, depending on your source, tends to mean sustainability analysis. How does the building handle various weather conditions? What’s the carbon footprint of your selected materials? You can test energy usage and environmental performance with BIM services and create green without guessing.
Collaboration: The BIM buzzword that actually means something
One of BIM’s not-so-hidden superpowers is its power to bring everyone together at the table. No more isolated workflows. No more he-said-she-said between architectural design experts and subcontractors. BIM firms tend to use Common Data Environments (CDEs)—single digital hubs where all project data is shared, updated, and followed.
Tools like Autodesk BIM 360 and Revizto make this collaboration seamless. Everyone sees the latest model. Everyone can comment, annotate, and assign tasks. It’s like Google Docs for buildings—except instead of writing essays, you’re building hospitals.
The tech behind the magic: A peek into the toolbox
Let’s discuss software. BIM design services rely heavily on a set of digital software to make all of the above work. Revit is frequently the king of the castle, with full modeling functionality in architecture, structure, and MEP. Navisworks is one of the favorites for clash detection and construction simulation. ArchiCAD has stylish software tools. Then there are specialist platforms such as Tekla (excellent for structural steel), Synchro (superb for 4D sequencing), and the constantly changing world of cloud platforms.
And yes, automation and AI are already creeping in. Few BIM companies employ scripts and plug-ins to automate tasks such as room tagging, element renumbering, or even model checking. The payoff? Quicker delivery, reduced errors, and more time for the team to engage in actual design thinking rather than copy-pasting.
What makes a great BIM company?
When you’re searching for a good BIM (Building Information Modeling) firm, glossy 3D rendering services don’t cut it. Sure, it’s great when the renderings are crisp, but an outstanding BIM firm contributes much more to the table than mere looks.
Excellent BIM firms have a larger picture in mind. They consider themselves strategically, as opposed to spatially. It’s not a matter of creating a model—it’s about assisting in creating the whole project more intelligently, from initial planning through final handoff. That involves knowing construction sequencing inside and out. They understand when things must take place, how one action impacts the next, and how to keep moving forward in an efficient manner.
Effective communication is another defining feature. These teams understand how to communicate effectively with architects, interior design services, contractors, and clients to keep everyone on the same page. They proactively alert others to potential issues before they develop into expensive headaches. Permits? Building codes? They’ve got those covered—and then some.
What actually distinguishes the top BIM companies is the extent to which they listen. No two projects are the same, and being able to listen to what the client requires—and respond in kind—is crucial. They use the BIM model as a living, changing resource, not merely something to deliver.
At the end of the day, BIM is driven by people. Behind every finished model is a group of thoughtful, informed decisions being made. It’s not about clicking on buttons in software—it’s about solving and creating value together, within a shared digital space.
So when you’re evaluating BIM services, don’t just look at the output. Look at the process, the people, and the principles driving the work. That’s where you’ll find the real difference.
When most people hear “BIM modeling,” they envision sleek high-rises or billion-dollar transportation projects. But that’s hardly the tip of the iceberg. Building Information Modeling, or BIM, has far outgrown its initial high-profile beginnings. It now impacts everything from small suburban housing developments to state-of-the-art hospitals, sprawling university campuses, and sports stadiums done by architectural site plan companies.
So, who’s really using BIM? The answer ranges across almost every aspect of the construction and design business. Real estate developers, contractors, architects, and engineers were some of the first. However, they no longer dominate the field. Interior designers, facility managers, and even furniture manufacturers are incorporating BIM into their routine operations. This shift occurs because BIM goes beyond 3D models; it employs an intelligent, data-rich approach for planning, visualizing, and coordinating every phase of a building’s lifecycle.
Think of a builder designing a green eco-hotel. Rather than cobbling things together in conventional CAD tools, they hire a BIM modeling firm to produce one coherent digital model. This isn’t a model that indicates merely where walls and windows go. It contains extensive information about MEP systems, energy efficiency requirements, material choices, and schedule timetables.
With BIM, the green hotel can be built to exacting green building standards, conserve energy, and minimize waste on site. Subcontractors can be coordinated during construction using the model, so expensive mistakes are avoided and the project remains on track. No more conflicting pipes and ducts realigned at the last minute.
And when the building finally opens its doors? The advantages continue. Facility managers can count on the BIM model for correct, current information concerning each system in the hotel. Need to switch out the HVAC units a decade later? There’s no uncertainty—they’ll know precisely where all of it is and how it fits together, not unlike architectural MEP services.
In brief, BIM is no longer the sole preserve of megaprojects. It’s a technology that’s being embraced by industries for its precision, adaptability, and potential to future-proof buildings. Whether you’re building a contemporary art museum or a prefab tiny house, there’s a high likelihood that BIM can make the process more intelligent, seamless, and environmentally friendly.
The road ahead: BIM’s evolving role
So, is this the end of the line for BIM? Not at all. The next wave is already upon us. Consider digital twins that interface with IoT sensors for real-time monitoring. Consider mixed reality overlays on construction sites. Consider AI programs that provide predictive maintenance and design optimization recommendations in real-time, leveraging the expertise of engineering design experts.
BIM is increasingly a “way we think” rather than a “thing we do.” With building complexity increasing, sustainability targets narrowing, and client expectations becoming more sophisticated, the modeling services provided by BIM firms are evolving into long-term digital relationships.
Those days of the drawing set presented at project delivery are over. The BIM model is the ongoing gift, previously, in real time, and far beyond the end of construction.
BIM is not all about technology. It’s about trust. It’s about smarter building, not merely faster building. It’s about viewing a building not just as steel and glass, but as an evolving, living being. And for BIM design firms, it’s about enabling teams to transition from confusion to clarity, from guesswork to accuracy, and from chaos to coordination for architectural design and CAD experts.
If you’re setting up a project, regardless of its size, hiring a building information modeling company isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s a competitive edge. They won’t simply give you a model. They’ll give you a roadmap, a control panel, and peace of mind in one.
Cad Crowd is here to help!
Looking to transform your next construction project from chaotic guesswork into streamlined precision? Don’t let outdated methods drain your budget with costly surprises and delays. Partner with Cad Crowd, the leader in providing professional freelance services for architectural, engineering, and design firms.
We’ll help you connect with experts proficient in BIM modeling. It’s your project’s insurance policy against miscommunication, rework, and budget overruns. Ready to build smarter, not harder? Get your free BIM consultation today and discover how intelligent modeling can save you time, money, and countless headaches from day one. Request a quote here.
MacKenzie Brown is the founder and CEO of Cad Crowd. With over 18 years of experience in launching and scaling platforms specializing in CAD services, product design, manufacturing, hardware, and software development, MacKenzie is a recognized authority in the engineering industry. Under his leadership, Cad Crowd serves esteemed clients like NASA, JPL, the U.S. Navy, and Fortune 500 companies, empowering innovators with access to high-quality design and engineering talent.
Artificial intelligence is no longer a far-off aspiration. It has become the foundation for how modern businesses make decisions, engage customers, and stay competitive. Many enterprises have invested in AI and machine learning, yet they face a crucial challenge: making these models work in everyday operations.
For most, the bottleneck isn’t tools, it’s operationalizing AI at scale. Moving from standalone models or proofs of concept to a robust, integrated analytics environment is far more complex than it appears.
If your organization already uses Snowflake, you might be closer to that goal than you think. Originally designed as a cloud-native data warehouse, Snowflake has evolved into a unified data platform where machine learning, data engineering, and business intelligence converge. Its growing AI capabilities mean enterprises can accelerate the shift from traditional BI to advanced, predictive analytics.
From Traditional BI to AI-Driven Analytics
Traditional business intelligence still dominates many enterprise data practices. Data is pulled, cleaned, and visualized on dashboards, usually to interpret historical trends and guide decisions reactively. While that’s useful, it rarely supports forward-looking decision-making at the pace markets demand.
That’s where Snowflake AI capabilities come into play. Predictive and prescriptive analytics can forecast demand, predict churn, or catch fraud in real time — but only if the right foundations exist. Successful organizations need platforms where models are built, deployed, and governed alongside their core data pipelines, eliminating the typical gaps between data and decision-making.
Snowflake AI Capabilities at a Glance
Over the past few years, Snowflake has added powerful tools and features to support the entire machine learning lifecycle. These innovations help data teams move from experimentation to production at scale:
Snowpark: Write transformations and machine learning logic in Python, Scala, or Java, all running natively within Snowflake to avoid unnecessary data movement.
Native Python Support: Simplify MLOps by running Python-based models with libraries like Pandas, scikit-learn, and TensorFlow directly inside Snowflake.
External Functions: Securely call third-party services such as AWS SageMaker or Azure ML while keeping orchestration and governance in Snowflake’s environment.
Streamlit Integration: Quickly build and deploy interactive apps to share machine learning insights with business users, without managing separate web infrastructure.
Snowflake Marketplace: Gain access to curated, ready-to-use external datasets to enrich your models and accelerate AI development.
Snowflake Cortex: A prebuilt framework for large language models (LLMs) and advanced ML functions — including sentiment analysis, document classification, and summarization — available directly through SQL.
Snowflake ML: Supports native model training without data leaving Snowflake, improving speed, security, and compliance.
Snowflake Model Registry: Provides model versioning, storage, and governance, ensuring your MLOps processes are consistent and scalable.
Snowflake Notebooks: Allow data scientists to work directly in interactive Python notebooks within the Snowflake UI, keeping experimentation and production close together.
LLM Functions & Vector Search: Native support for embedding models, similarity search, and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) on enterprise data.
These features together position Snowflake as a true enterprise-grade AI hub, supporting everything from predictive forecasting to generative use cases at scale. These advances aren’t just theoretical. For example, Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) — which operates the New York Stock Exchange — has adopted Snowflake’s Cortex AI features for regulatory reporting and market surveillance. Processing over half a trillion messages per trading day, they reduced reporting workloads by 50% while improving ad hoc query performance by 80%, enabling faster anomaly detection and stronger oversight.
Closing Gaps Between AI and Outcomes
Of course, technology alone is rarely the full answer. Many enterprises still struggle to make Snowflake’s machine learning features deliver real, sustained results because their AI initiatives operate in isolation — disconnected from data governance, BI pipelines, or production applications. Some common roadblocks include:
Fragmented architecture Separate systems for pipelines, models, and reporting tools can leave predictions stuck in silos.
Missing MLOps discipline Without proper model governance, versioning, and monitoring, prototypes never scale beyond the lab.
Lack of integration Even the most accurate models cannot drive value if they aren’t connected to business workflows.
Enterprises that succeed treat AI on Snowflake as a continuous practice, not a one-off project. They invest in data structures that integrate historical and real-time signals, establish robust MLOps frameworks, and embed predictions into applications and dashboards so decisioning loops stay tight and repeatable.
Why It Matters Now
The move toward AI-first decision-making is accelerating. Waiting risks falling behind — not just in technology, but in the ability to respond to change, serve customers effectively, and unlock new opportunities.
Snowflake’s AI capabilities are positioning it at the center of this shift — not just as a place to store data, but as a true platform for building intelligence on top of it. But technology is only one side of the equation. Enterprises need a deliberate strategy, repeatable processes, and the right architecture to go from pilots to production at scale.
If you’re looking to move beyond traditional BI and unlock the full potential of AI on Snowflake, there has never been a better time to act. The tools are mature, the ecosystem is vibrant, and real-world success stories show what’s possible.
