ISSUE 16 /

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 /

The sun peeks through the curtains, a gentle nudge. Today, instead of a sigh, a quiet "let's go."

That to-do list might feel like a mountain, but each task is just a step. A positive mindset isn't about ignoring the challenges, it's about choosing your lens. Focus on the progress, however small. Celebrate the wins.

Doubt might whisper, but a firm "not today" can keep it at bay. Energy flows where intention goes. So, let's intend to make today a day of gentle momentum and quiet accomplishment.

One step, one task, one positive thought at a time.

CGI

In the world of CGI, Chaos has released a further update for its real-time render engine Vantage 2. With a variety of products that support a whole Archviz industry, Vantage is one that we have looked at before, with the latest release moves things along further. As standard with it’s integration to the Chaos Cosmos and Anima people, it’s a very tempting option for real-time studios.

Architecture

In the world of Architecture, The Montenotte Hotel in Cork has launched its €7.5 million Woodland Suite Experience, featuring nine nature-inspired suites designed by Henry J Lyons and Róisín Lafferty. Nestled in the hotel's former 18th-century gardens, the timber-clad Woodland and River suites offer panoramic views and interiors with natural materials like timber and travertine. Guests enjoy an exclusive Clubhouse and the hotel's sustainability efforts include sedum roofs and a "Nights-for-Nature" tree planting program.

Design

In the world of Design, amidst Milan Design Week's noise, ENHANCE exhibition, curated by Juan Torres, offered a focused calm, emphasizing deep material conversations and patient design. Projects like Debonademeo's recycled "De Sideria" lamp (18 years in development) and Felicia Neuhof's seashell "Buoy" stool highlighted waste transformation and time investment. The exhibition fostered material dialogues, transcending aesthetics to explore future possibilities, acting as a launchpad for international design discourse.

Technology

In the world of Technology, we stumbled on Mogu, who is not just creating products with Mycelium, but beautiful products. We think this is part of the power of introducing something different like this to the market. It’s got to stand out, not just because of what it’s made from and what it does, but how it looks. While functionality and sustainability are key, the visual appeal is undeniably a significant factor in market adoption. Imagine if we could then go on to replace all the harmful, basic and boring materials used in construction & design with Mycelium.

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.…🧐 

Stop chasing original ideas—here’s what actually makes you creative…

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.