Urbanism
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A closer look at Chengdu
Investment from Beijing and abroad has brought a boom to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province. Monocle visits the city to gauge its progress.
Go with the flow
There’s nothing that irritates architects more than the word ‘cosy’. We believe they should rethink their view, as most of us are looking for intimacy, good lighting and sensible scale.
Cobble it up
Along with clean hospitals and punctual buses, our cities should have a cosy feel to them. Let’s hear it for warm street lighting, pristine parks and cobbled back alleys.
From coal to cool
Thanks to its excellent universities, international transport links and super bright, skilled workforce, this former mining city in Germany’s Ruhr valley has been transformed into a hive for hi-tech firms.
Where next?
From Israel’s new museum district to Poland’s secret economic hotspot via Armenia’s favourite mountain, Monocle runs the rule over five places you should keep an eye on in 2010.
Forecast 2010: Transport
What you can learn on an Indian train; the future of commuting; Japan pushes further, faster and Bogotá goes Underground.
A better blueprint
Monocle’s 10 manifestos for the year ahead offer solutions for everything from urban renewal and education to soft power and healthcare, providing a blueprint for re-engaging communities and creating better cities.
Starting again
Spain’s economic woes have sparked a spirited entrepreneurial culture in Madrid. We meet the people turning their fortunes around and revitalising neighbourhoods, and speak to the mayor about new business initiatives.
Pole star
As global warming opens up the Arctic, the small community of Kirkenes is set for big changes. Can it cope with businesses keen to exploit its position on the Northern Sea Route?
Future lab
Global leaders may be lacking in ambition but that hasn’t stopped us doing the heavy lifting for them. Monocle presents 10 grand projects that would make a big difference.
