Welcome to the weekly Design Dispatch. This week we're discussing why you might want to reconsider your e-bike subscription and what to do instead, brands that are making (progressive) moves and the artist we can't stop listening to.

LOCAL INTEREST:

Lyft just introduced a substantial rate hike for e-bike rentals through its Bay Wheels program. If you're looking for an alternative, you might consider making the leap and investing in a bike of your own. We reached out to our local shop, The New Wheel, for an estimate on when you might expect to break even, "The average customer could start saving money at between 1-2 years of ownership. Most of our customers use their electric bikes for 4-5 years before upgrading, and over that time, the average customer would spend about half as much owning an e-bike over renting." Models start at $2,499.

Due to the evolving situation with Covid 19 in the Bay Area, there are a lot of cancellations and closures happening this weekend. For the most up to date list, we could find head over to the Chronicle to see how you might be impacted.

If you are planning on venturing out, the Bay Area's 61st White Elephant Sale is happening this weekend. A mega-garage sale of sorts, the event is known for its expansive collection of secondhand treasures at great prices. Proceeds benefit the Oakland Museum of California.

DESIGN NEWS: 

Pantone just introduced 315 new colors and redesigned its guides to create a more streamlined workflow for creatives. So now, you can be that much more precise when sending that intern off with your coffee order.

Eco-conscious fashion brand Rothy's has long been known for its sustainable shoes, produced from recycled plastic water bottles. Now they are taking things one step further by introducing a line of handbags made using the same technique, only this time they are sourcing plastic collected around marine environments.

Forbes just announced they will be producing a 50 over 50 list celebrating notable women who have achieved "significant success late in life." The issue is set to hit newsstands this July, and nominations are now open, so go submit that notable lady in your life.

Amazon has yet again brought a new angle to online shopping with "The Drop," a series of influencer designed collections that are only available to shop for 30 hours. We would be lying if we said we weren't tempted to click "add to cart" on more than a few items.

LISTEN:

Singer Jessie Reyez has recently stepped into the spotlight as the newly signed opening act for the Billie Eilish. We recommend giving the hauntingly addictive "Love in the Dark" a listen as an introduction to her music.

That concludes our weekly Design Dispatch. If there is anything you would like to add to the list, feel free to leave a comment below, and if you have a tip for a future column, feel free to drop us a line.

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