More than 1,000 medieval art and design artifacts were discovered under Notre Dame.

During Notre Dame Cathedral’s post-fire restoration, archaeologists unearthed more than 1,000 artifacts, including limestone statues, graves, and a 13th-century rood screen, shedding light on its medieval origins. Analysis revealed innovative construction methods, such as the early use of iron clamps and intricately shaped oak beams transported via the Seine.

Herman Miller’s newest launch takes aim at the challenges of open office floorplans.

Herman Miller’s new Bay Work Pod tackles key challenges faced by modern workplaces, particularly those that embrace an open office floorplan. Optimized for privacy, comfort, and teleconferencing, it features thoughtful touches like flattering lighting, air circulation, and ADA-accessibility. Its noise-reducing materials and customizable configurations enhance both functionality and aesthetics.

A film screening commemorates the late architect John Portman’s 100th birthday.

Yesterday marked what would have been the 100th birthday of architect John Portman, who, during his life, was renowned for revolutionizing hotel atrium design. MAS Context is celebrating his legacy with a digital screening of John Portman: A Life of Building, which offers an intimate exploration of his work through dramatic visuals and expert insights. 

Bridgitte Macron and Queen Camilla jointly hosted the Entente Littéraire Prize Awards.

Queen Camilla and First Lady Brigitte Macron celebrated the Entente Littéraire Prize in London, a U.K.-France literary initiative launched in 2023. Both women coordinated elegant outfits, with Macron in a structured cornflower blue coatdress and Camilla in a gray tweed ensemble, subtly highlighting their nations’ unity. The event underscored the collaborative spirit of the prize, designed to strengthen cultural ties through young adult literature.

Sound artist and poet Fanney Sigurðardóttir will represent Iceland at the Venice Biennale.

Ásta Fanney Sigurðardóttir, a Reykjavík-based multidisciplinary artist and poet, will represent Iceland at the 2026 Venice Biennale. Known for blending sound, text, performance, and visual art, Sigurðardóttir has showcased her work globally, including at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo and the Nobel Prize Museum. 

Today’s attractive distractions:

Paltrona Frau’s newest sofa takes inspiration from puffer coats.

Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, and the Weeknd top Spotify Wrapped. 

Gen-Z makes up the holiday season’s cohort of highest spenders.

An MSGM capsule collection celebrates Milan’s love of cool bars.