Affairs
How informal “architectural bastards” could shape Thailand’s urban future
How can architecture better reflect a country’s real character? Thai designer Chatpong Chuenrudeemol shares how shanty towns, love motels and street carts reshaped his practice, and his vision for Southeast Asia.
Opinion
Latest in Monocle Radio
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The man paid to worry about the future shares predictions for France, the Trump administration and an EU military shopping spree
AXA Group’s chief economist, Gilles Moëc, explains how insurers have to plan for every eventuality and why he’s quietly hopeful about Europe.
The Seine’s reopening to swimmers marks a watershed moment for Paris’s civic renewal
For the first time in more than a century, Parisians have been allowed to swim in the Seine. Three outdoor bathing areas opened to the public this weekend amid a searing heatwave, though authorities…
What we gain and lose with the rise of sky gardens
Although green spaces are always a welcome addition to urban landscapes, vertical lawns can never replace real parks in the heart of cities.
All eyes are on Corsica, as a vote on its greater autonomy – or even full independence – from Paris approaches
As a vote on the issue of autonomy in Corsica approaches, some are demanding that self-ruling local powers be written into the island territory’s constitution.
How to tap nature’s chilling effect for a sustainable way to cool urban areas
The hum of power-hungry air conditioners has become the soundtrack of summer in the hottest cities. The architect behind a Gold Lion-winning pavilion at Venice Biennale shares a possible solution.
Seville, the ‘frying pan of Europe’, holds the secrets to managing the blistering summer heat
As temperatures continue to soar, heatwaves have become a Spanish tradition. The city of Seville is drawing on both ancient knowledge and cutting-edge science to keep its citizens cool.
Hydra’s storied past, future and present: What we learned from our sit-down with George Koukoudakis
The mayor of the Greek island spoke to Monocle about the city’s challenges, from short-term rentals and housing to climate change.
Genoa’s comeback as a hub of vision and renewal
Once a cultural and economic powerhouse, the port city spent decades in the shadow of better-connected cities such as Milan. But it is now undergoing a rebirth, thanks to visionary locals and fresh talent.
Could Europe be about to benefit from Trump’s US brain drain?
Amid Donald Trump’s cuts to federal institutions and grants, more US-based scientists are considering jumping ship – and Europe will be waiting with open arms.
‘Thai politics is deadlocked by design’: Pita Limjaroenrat on Thailand’s leadership crisis
As thousands call for Paetongtarn Shinawatra to step down, Thailand’s ‘almost prime minister’ tells us what should be done differently in a nation where the military has ensured its enduring influence over governmental appointments.
