Monocle on Design

Pettit+Sevitt pioneered architect-designed project homes in 1960s Australia. We talk about the firm’s legacy and revival.

How can we build better new developments? We check in with Australian architects, Dutch developers and Danish innovators who show that good design can make new homes and offices beautiful, functional and sustainable.

The finalists of this year’s prestigious International Woolmark Prize were announced this week. Sinéad Burke, a member of the judging panel and an accessibility advocate, discusses how the competition allows young fashion designers to become more inclusive.

We speak to Edi Rama, the Albanian prime minister behind the colourful façades of the capital, Tirana. Plus, a look at the posters plastered across the streets of Zürich.

Design writer and architect Naomi Pollock shares the story of the spoke chair. The piece features in Pollock’s new book, ‘Japanese Design Since 1945: A Complete Sourcebook’.

Don’t want to wake up on the wrong side of the bed? Well, when it comes to sleep, quality is as important as quantity. For proof, we test out the humble futon, hear about the work of famed mattress-manufacturer Hästens and take to the night skies with design studio Caon.

On Design Extra: Meena Krenek, an interior-design director at the Los Angeles offices of Perkins&Will, reflects on the importance of including a diverse range of people in architectural design visuals.

What do architects, outdoor enthusiasts and kitchenware specialists have in common? They all make for great product designers. For proof, we check out David Chipperfield’s new suitcase, Japanese brand Snow Peak’s tasteful tents and share some inspiration from Switzerland’s V-Zug.

Craft and design journalist Katie Treggiden discusses the designers, makers and manufacturers using waste as their primary resource and delves in to her new book, ‘Wasted: When Trash Becomes Treasure’.

How do we design for our furry, scaled and feathered companions? We talk to architect Asif Khan about his work for man’s best friend, profile the designers who are making creature comforts a priority and unpack the best in product design for dogs.