Design
How the reconstruction of Lisbon’s Baixa district became a model for modern urban planning
Lisbon’s Baixa neighbourhood, ravaged by natural disasters in the 18th century, is a design lesson in reconstruction that breathes harmony and order.
Latest in Monocle Radio
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Lessons from Margaret Calvert, the designer who helped shape Britain’s road signs
The London-based artist was a longtime tutor at Royal College of Art and redesigned the UK’s road signs in the 1960s.
Inside Hamar Atriumhus – one of Scandinavia’s most admired architectural templates
Since its construction in the 1960s, the Atriumhus has become one of Scandinavia’s most loved buildings and respected works of architecture. We meet its current custodian, architect Gary Parkes.
Room to grow: Impressive educational architecture in Finland, Austria and beyond
Built learning environments can be transformative, inspiring students to look after their surroundings while nurturing creativity. We talk to architects shaping outcomes for the better by eschewing screens and embracing natural light and greenery.
Munich’s Arabellahaus could become a model for saving Germany’s ageing housing blocks
When the owner of Munich’s Arabellahaus announced in 2018 that the building would have to come down, residents were furious. Completed in 1969, the enormous, skinny, rectangular structure long functioned as a miniature city,…
Alvar Aalto’s designs define Finland abroad. But Unesco recognition is marring his legacy at home
Architectural powerhouses Alvar, Aino and Elissa Aalto are the pride of Finland. But could a new Unesco designation for 13 landmark projects threaten to do more harm than good?
This beautiful house in Menorca skillfully displays the art of hot-climate architecture
What are the makings of a perfect summer house or a year-round warm-weather retreat? We take a close look at Morella Vell’s clever design features.
What ‘Backrooms’ reveals about the emotional power of furniture and interiors
For certain interior architects, the devil is in the decor.
Bigger isn’t always better: Seven small museums to see around the world
From Singapore to Mexico City, we share some of our favourite small art, culture and architecture museums.
An unlikely mix of surreal and classical architecture makes Gibellina Nuova well worth a visit
“What are you seeing in this place?” It was a fair question from my Australian family, who I had dragged to Gibellina Nuova, a small town in the centre of Sicily. It was a…
Into the fold: In an exclusive interview, Samsung’s head of design reveals what’s next for your smartphone
As Samsung launches a coveted range of foldable smartphones, Hubert Lee details what goes into designing the phones of tomorrow, as well as how foldables and AI integration are mapped into our future.
