Architectural news showed no sign of slowing down this August, with surging coronavirus cases around the world continuing to cast uncertainty on economic outlook and day-to-day professional practice.

↑ Autodesk: "We have underinvested in architectural modeling functionality in recent years and are working to make that right"

Design software giant Autodesk responded to a highly critical open letter published in July by leading architecture firms decrying a number of issues with its key product Revit. The company admitted shortcomings and promised to make improvements.

↑ The Tokyo Toilet Project: Pritzker Prize winners Shigeru Ban, Tadao Ando, Toyo Ito, and Fumihiko Maki among designers of new public restrooms

In mid-August, the Tokyo Toilet Project opened the first five of 17 planned public restrooms throughout the city's Shibuya area. With noteworthy Japanese architects among the designers, including Pritzker Prize winners Shigeru Ban, Tadao Ando, Toyo Ito, and Fumihiko Maki, the project aims to provide safer, cleaner, and more accessible facilities.

↑ Architectural Licensure at a Crossroads: An Interview with NCARB President Robert M. Calvani and President-Elect Alfred Vidaurri

To discuss NCARB's diversity initiatives and the future of architectural licensure, paired with a new kind of pandemic-related economic challenges, Archinect connected with President Robert M. Calvani and President-Elect Alfred Vidaurri. 

↑ Designing for neurodiversity in the workplace

A report authored by HOK contributed to a growing awareness regarding "neurodiversity" in the workforce, outlining recommendations and workplace-design stategies that cater to and facilitate the spatial needs of neurodiverse individuals.

↑ Peopling Studio allows you to increase the diversity in your renders

Seeking to diversify the digital representation of the human body, identity, and the ethics of visualization, the PEOPLING STUDIO is a 3D library of characters that is free to use.

↑ Architect-built concrete bubble house in Australia is for sale

Closing out the roundup is one of the month's most popular posts. Amid a constant barrage of pandemic woes and pre-election drama this year, 1980s concrete bubble houses proved to be a trusted, soothing remedy.