Design
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Cool Operator
A decade ago, Australian Shane Williams invented a cooling vest for football players. Today, his invention helps commandos in Iraq, burn victims, heart patients and even thoroughbred horses.
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.
Second to none
The world's top watchmakers gather in Basel annually to reveal their newest creations. Monocle was there to discover the leading trends and take the pulse of the luxury timepiece market.
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.
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.
