Monocle on Design
Your essential guide to design, covering furniture, craft, and architecture. Discover fresh stories, rising talents, and the latest from top studios.
Latest Episodes
Iwan Baan, Niwaki, Bruce Kuwabara
Iwan Baan discusses his project documenting light and architecture in Burkina Faso and we explore a new shop in London devoted to Japanese gardening equipment. Plus: Bruce Kuwabara reflects on Canada’s design industry.
The varied world of architecture models
We explore the weird and wonderful world of architectural models at a new exhibition in London and learn a few tips to transform our wardrobe. Plus: why a city-based architect is focusing on improving rural life.
Rebuilding Beirut
We reflect on the rebuilding of Beirut following the blast last year at the city’s port; visit a new showcase on biophilic design; and discover why the Royal College of Art’s new campus is growing to include facilities for robotics, science and technology.
3 Days of Design and London Design Festival
We venture to 3 Days of Design in Copenhagen. Plus: US-based artist Willie Cole shares his approach to using recycled materials and, at the London Design Festival, we browse a collection from British manufacturers SCP.
Milan Design Week, part two
We explore the strength of the Milanese design industry and catch up with Stephen Burks and Malika Leiper to discuss their hybrid studio and gallery in New York
Milan Design Week and Salone del Mobile
The design world’s biggest event is here – we cover Milan Design Week from our base in the Lombard capital, checking in with emerging designers from Stockholm art and design collective Swedish Girls, visiting Molteni’s space at Supersalone and talking with the co-founder of Danish design studio Karakter.
Leica, Nike and Zanat
We speak to world-renowned German camera brand Leica about its move into the mobile phone market. Plus: we hear about Nike’s sports uniform design process and get to know a Bosnian furniture brand recognised by Unesco.
Paul Smith, Alvar Aalto Week, Ishkar
British designer Paul Smith shares his design for a new Mini vehicle and we visit Alvar Aalto Week in the Finnish town of Kouvola. Plus: we meet Ishkar, a company helping to preserve traditional craftsmanship in conflict-affected countries.
Biennales, fairs and expos
We explore some of Europe’s best design events, from Design Biennale Zürich to Copenhagen Fashion Week. Plus, we speak to Nina Marenzi, the founder of Future Fabrics Expo, which focuses on sustainable materials.
The Tange family legacy
Architect Paul Noritaka Tange on the challenges of continuing a design legacy with his Tokyo Aquatics Centre. Plus, the team meets Yinka Ilori at his vibrant 3D-printed basketball court in London’s Canary Wharf.
