Architecture
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Salone Selectives
With record numbers attending Milan’s Salone Internazionale del Mobile, its reputation as the world's most important design fair was confirmed. Monocle reports on the key players, products and up-and-coming trends.
Observation
For many of us it’s a case of not being able to see the forest for the trees. For Italy it was not being able to spot the opportunity for the chairs.
Drugs, guns and nice sofas
In Herat, elaborate palaces are being built by businessmen who have made fortunes from post-war opportunities. A mix of foreign influences, the houses have created a new school of design: Narcotecture.
Sets Appeal
From draughtsman to art director for big-budget films, Robert Cowper discusses his craft. Monocle met him on the set of ‘The Bourne Ultimatum’ during last-minute reshoots for some massive New York roofscapes.
The Inn Crowd
Japan’s simple, pared-down ryokan are setting new standards in service and design. One remodelled inn by architect Kengo Kuma introduces a western audience to the pleasures of the traditional Japanese inn.
Build me Hong Kong
To counter competition from China, South Korea plans to build new cities to rival Hong Kong and Singapore as hubs for hi-tech services and tourism. But can the ambitious nation pull it off?
Take your seats
The Milan Furniture Fair, or “Salone”, has become one of the world's biggest industrial design events. It brings together designers, architects, buyers and clients for five days of intense business and networking.
Shore thing
An hour and a half north of São Paulo is a beachfront retreat designed by architect Isay Weinfeld. His clients wanted a modernist haven that reflected their Middle Eastern heritage.
