Petri Burtsoff
From Bangkok to Bogota, these 23 innovative urban initiatives keep people moving and joyful
Fitness is often framed as a personal endeavour but cities can help to nudge us into healthier lifestyles. A charming playground, safe cycle lanes and well-designed waterfronts are a start.
Forget Milan, Paris and London: Helsinki is where talent scouts head to look for the best fashion designers
Finland is experiencing a fashion renaissance thanks to world-class fashion programmes at Aalto University and a new generation of young designers championing self-expression and technical garment-making.
Collector by chance: How Pertti Männistö became one of the world’s most accomplished Alvar Aalto archivists
For the Finnish furniture collector, staying true to his interests and following his instincts was the key to amassing a collection even larger than Finland’s Alvar Aalto Museum.
Kristen Michal, the Estonian leader at the sharp edge of Nato
A hawkish voice on Russia, Estonia’s 50-year-old prime minister has ramped up his nation’s defence spending, hoping to lead by example as Europe adjusts to a more hostile age.
How we made Monocle’s guide to Helsinki
Our city guides are written by the people who know the places best. In this case, our Helsinki correspondent lets you in on a few of the Finnish capital’s best-kept secrets.
Hydro is the Norwegian firm making aluminium the designer’s material of choice
The aluminium producer’s commitment to circularity offers a shining example of what real progress looks like in the materials sector.
‘Focus on the fundamentals – that’s what strengthens the quality of life’: Helsinki’s millennial mayor outlines his plan
We meet Daniel Sazonov, Helsinki’s millennial mayor, to discuss his city’s progress and challenges, from maintaining its green image to diplomatic risk management.
Design-led dining spots to visit this May – from a fire station-turned-ale house in Auckland to Marseille’s latest retro-futurist opening
As warmer weather welcomes us back outdoors, here are our picks of where to dine this month.
Twelve creatives on the art of watchmaking and why horology will stand the test of time
Designers, architects, chefs and more tell us about their favourite watches, their fascination with complications and timekeeping as a fundamental element of any professional’s life.
Is Finland in trouble? Ukraine’s wayward drones expose Europe’s hidden weakness
Ukrainian drones that strayed from their Russian targets and crashed in Finland raise grave concerns for Europe’s defensive readiness. Can the bloc learn its lesson before it’s too late?
