ISSUE 10 /

A PLACE TO LEARN, DISCOVER &
EXPLORE THE EVER CHANGING WORLD
WE DESIGN IN!

✍️ Henry Cheney 

We’re here to keep you inspired and informed, with a special focus on the intersection of four key areas:

Why these four? Because together, they define the future of creativity. At HBC Visual, our love for CGI has driven us to explore its transformative power across industries, and the rapid rise of AI is rewriting the rules of design.

Yet, we remain grounded in the timeless principles of creativity: the artist behind the tool will always matter.

MENTAL MUSINGS /

Making time isn’t easy, in fact it’s impossible to add or take it away, no matter how hard you might try. So what does that leave us with... a forced structure.

How we fit within the box of time is a different challenge.

I reflect on this as deadlines, a word that can give some people a cold sweat and others will thrive off, are a constant in almost all fields of work. According to data from Asana, on average people miss around 15% of their deadlines. Causes of this are: poor time management, over-commitment, unforeseen circumstances, unclear expectations, and would you believe it a sprinkling of procrastination!

Ultimately, our relationship with deadlines is a reflection of our relationship with time itself. By understanding where we struggle and developing strategies to overcome those challenges, we gain not only a better grasp of our work but also a deeper understanding of ourselves. And that, perhaps, is the most valuable lesson of all.

CGI

In the world of CGI, Gaussian splatting is taking leaps and bounds. This is a technique which feels like magic and is fundamentally good old mathematics and physics, which had its original paper written back in the 90s. With most software now supporting this technique, it’s an area that will be moving forward in getting us closer to realism in our renders. Check out this great explainer video to understand a bit more about this technique.

Architecture

In the world of Architecture, Child Studio reimagined a Georgian London townhouse near Eaton Square, blending historic architecture with warm modernism. Inspired by 20th-century villas, the interiors feature natural materials and traditional techniques. A 5-meter library wall, reminiscent of Lagerfeld's studio in Paris, anchors the living room, furnished with Bauhaus armchairs and custom sofas. An emerald-green marble bathroom, inspired by Villa Serralves, is a highlight. Undulating curves and handcrafted details appear throughout.

Design

In the world of Design, Serax's Uala lamp designed by Sebastian Herkner, with its delicately pleated shade mimicking tropical leaves, evokes a gentle breeze through its intricate geometry and subtle curves. This detail gives it a dynamic, sculptural quality, making it both art and functional lighting. The interplay of light and shadow adds further visual depth. Available in two sizes and colours, Uala adapts seamlessly to various spaces, whether as a standalone statement or part of a curated display.

Technology

In the world of Technology, Justin Mitchell's Amber KB1 is a conceptual clamshell keyboard transforming smartphones into laptops. Compatible with iPhone and Samsung Galaxy models, it features mechanical keys and a MagSafe-compatible phone holder. Its compact design, soft-touch plastic shell, and adjustable hinge offer comfortable typing anywhere.

Doodle

Instead of relying on AI-generated images, we invite you to doodle! Sketching isn’t just for fun—it’s a way to unlock creativity and explore new ideas. Each issue, we’ll feature one doodle, and soon, we’d love to showcase your creations.

🎨 Grab a pen, unleash your imagination, and get doodling! 🎨

If you found something inspiring here, share this newsletter with a friend!

Stay curious, stay creative.

In every issue, we’ll surprise you with something new and exciting. From quirky discoveries to essential tools, our bonus content will keep you inspired and informed. So, make sure to check back each issue for your dose of unexpected delight.…🧐 

There is always something so poetic to hand-crafted items. What had to happen historically to learn and establish the techniques and mastery to create objects. The Longquan region is known for its celadon pottery, if you don’t know it, give this clip a watch and wait for the pottery magic at the end!

AUTHOR /

Henry Cheney is the founder of HBC Visual, a visualisation company supporting designers, architects and developers to bring their projects to life.

We value your feedback

And we’d love to hear from you—feedback and ideas are always welcome. Take a moment to let us know how we can make this newsletter even better.