Monocle on Design

Fernando Augusto Pacheco, Monocle Radio's senior correspondent, delves into the 'Pictograms' exhibition at Japan House in London, discussing the significance of Japanese design and pictograms in modern communication. He shares insights into the essence of summer design, including nostalgic beach experiences and the joy of favorite summer drinks. Pacheco also reflects on the late Robert Wilson's artistic legacy, emphasizing how innovative lighting reshapes storytelling in both theatre and architecture.

Journey to Portugal to explore a unique design collective that harmonizes traditional craftsmanship with modern flair. Discover the magic of collaboration among independent designers, where teamwork ignites creativity. Learn how local materials not only shape design but also connect deeply with cultural heritage. The conversations spark inspiration on how nature influences design identity and emphasizes the intimacy of creative processes. Tune in for a vibrant discussion about pushing the boundaries of innovation in design!

Bolaji Teniola is an Adelaide-based interdisciplinary designer whose work explores art and design through timber shavings. Marco Sousa Santos runs Branca, a Portuguese furniture brand known for contemporary designs, and shares insights from the 'Chairman' exhibition. Rebecca Lewin co-curates the 'More Than Human' exhibit, which challenges conventional design by prioritizing ecological needs and non-human perspectives. They discuss innovative solutions merging art and nature, the transformative potential of sustainable materials, and the emotional narratives behind furniture design.

Monocle’s associate editor of design and fashion, Grace Charlton, muses on the importance of enjoying good design rather than the performance of merely owning it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re in Japan to visit furniture manufacturer Karimoku. Then we consider the use of concrete in Austrian architecture and the team behind ‘Slop Magazine’ discuss graphic design and client relationships. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Lagos-based artist’s exhibition, ‘You will wonder if we would have been friends’, is on at The Noguchi Museum in New York. Ogunbiyi’s artworks playfully blur the line between functional design and art. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lulu Harrison, winner of The Ralph Saltzman Prize 2025, discusses her ‘Thames Glass’ project. We also head to Lisbon’s Made in Situ gallery to see its ‘Xisto’ collection. Plus: Romanian designer Bogdan Ciocodeica. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A celebrated architect shares insights on the future of mobility, focusing on his innovative project for Venice's waterways. The discussion highlights the intersection of modern transport design with the city's rich history and culture. Listeners are taken through the challenges and inspirations behind creating a user-friendly transport hub in a location steeped in tradition, showcasing how architecture can evolve to meet contemporary needs.

Didiet Maulana, founder of Ikat Indonesia, discusses bringing historical textile techniques to a contemporary audience. Plus: Nordic design news and we hear from the founder of collectible design brand Hamrei.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this conversation, writer Christopher Beanland, author of 'Architecture for Cars,' dives into the fascinating relationship between cars and modern architecture. He explores how automobiles have influenced urban planning, coining the term 'car-citecture.' Listeners will discover quirky architectural examples like Berlin's 'Snake' and Australia's humorous roadside attractions, showcasing how these car-centric designs reflect cultural shifts and shape experiences for both drivers and pedestrians.