When we think about 21st-century Europe, we think about Germany. But our picture of the character and global outlook of the country can often be shaped by outdated notions. Here, Monocle crosses the real Germany and disc…
The Finnish capital’s new public library was the result of an anonymous open competition. As other cities look for a less ‘starchitect’ future, it shows what can be achieved with a little democracy.
In May, for the first time in human history, the world’s population was more urban than rural. But how can we deliver quality of life to our urban environments? Here, five leading thinkers give their answers. First, the…
From architects and chefs to writers and directors, our contributors consider what draws them to their favourite cities and what quality of life means to them.
Dai Nippon Printing’s new training centre, by architect Kenya Ishihara, was designed to inspire its employees. With a spa and views of Mount Fuji, it seems more like a retreat than a place of work but with this incentive…
In search of a new architect to do something with that plot of land in northern Vermont? Keen on a new tonic to give you a little tingle when you stride to work? Want to find a place to peel off the layers for an early…
The firm that's found space to park its buildings, a natural talent from Austria and John Maeda of the Rhode Island School of Design gives his new year predictions.
Construction work continues in Burma’s new model capital, inaugurated in 2005. Its sparkling buildings are designed to consolidate the generals’ power – but with small steps towards democracy, could Aung San Suu Kyi one day…
Toronto’s newest cultural landmark is the Aga Khan Museum, dedicated to collecting art and artefacts from throughout the Islamic world. A serene and inclusive site, it aims to educate and unite visitors of all faiths.
It was designed by a suspect bohemian, houses a coup plotter and is today favoured by young, liberal creatives. Madrid’s Edificio Princesa, once both bunker and luxury home for Franco’s loyal cadre, is a concrete testament…
The US and UK may be falling short when it comes to making a good impression but Berlin is firming up its footing on the world stage with a sparkling renovation of its stellar department store Kadewe.
Thanks to substantial foreign investment and its status as the home of the African Union, the Ethiopian capital is positioning itself as Africa’s diplomatic hub. As the AU divides over how to expand its mandate, Addis is…
As Norway finds fresh ways to tell its story through soft power around the world (in sponsoring everything from London club nights to international design shows), there’s one example that’s stood the test of time. The…
The trouble with editing an issue featuring a design directory is that it immediately forces you to challenge and rethink most things in your daily routine, says Tyler Brûlé.