Hester Underhill
Legends in the baking
Four generations of the Woitinek family have perfected Nuremberg's legendary Lebkuchen, transforming a modest bakery into Germany's premier Christmas gingerbread destination through centuries-old recipes.
Trading places
Despite the convenience of online shopping, a new generation of designers, buyers and entrepreneurs are reaffirming the irreplaceable charms of in-person retail. Here are five new outlets that we admire.
City Gift Guides
Christmas shopping in a new city – or even, at times, one you’re familiar with – can be exhilarating. You just need to know where to go.
Sonic wonderlands
From Oxfordshire to the Czech Republic, we explore three innovative international recording studios.
Fine print
Gerhard Steidl has crafted a company in his exacting image – and now he’s expanding his one-street empire with an eye to the future.
Hit your stride
We hope that these diverse ideas might inspire you to be ambitious, be serious about having fun – and to get out there, put your best foot forward and go for it.
Local heroes
Independent shops from Hong Kong to Madrid prove that knowing customers by name and fostering genuine community connections remains the foundation of thriving neighbourhood businesses.
The Opener
Musical trams in Zürich and a new race to the moon. Plus: where to stay for Art Basel.
The Monocle Design Awards 2023: All 50 winners
Monocle Design Awards celebrate global architecture, furniture, and graphic design improving lives.
Start the dance
Dance hall La Paloma thrived for more than a century until a barrage of noise complaints closed its doors. Now, soundproofed and reimagined, the party is back.
