
Monocle on Design
Everything you need to know about the world of design, from furniture to fashion and craft to architecture. Expect fresh stories, new finds and designers and all the latest news from the world’s most exciting studios.
Latest episodes

Jan 14, 2025 • 8min
‘Never At Home’
Discover a thriving initiative revitalizing vacant spaces for art in Vienna. The Funkhaus, once a broadcasting hub, serves as a fascinating blend of history and modernity, ripe for creative renewal. Listen to stories of transforming unused sites, like a former school, into vibrant cultural venues. Dive into the excitement surrounding a new artist residency program at Funkhaus, where both emerging talents and seasoned creators unlock their potential in a thoughtfully curated environment. It's a journey into the power of art to breathe new life into forgotten places.

Jan 7, 2025 • 31min
Film special
We take a look at some silver-screen releases that take a cinematic view on the built environment. Then we go on a global green architecture tour and take a look at New Zealand’s mid-century brutalism. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 31, 2024 • 28min
A fresh start
Discover emerging design trends, including innovative materials like mycelium and the revival of classic brands such as Tolix. Unpack the captivating relationship between fashion and furniture design, where storytelling takes center stage. Celebrate the art of sailmaking and the tradition of hand-stitching in crafting resilient sails. Dive into culinary creativity with a unique recipe that blends cooking and design philosophies. Explore innovative solutions for affordable prosthetics, promoting inclusivity and community awareness.

Dec 24, 2024 • 30min
The best of 2024
The team shares this year’s highlights. Expect conversations with designers Maria Bruun and Farah Marafie, and architectural historian, Iain Borden. Also, we hear from the team behind the ‘Dwellings’ exhibition of birdhouses. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 19, 2024 • 3min
Highlights from the year
Explore the year’s most captivating design insights as industry leaders share their thoughts on architecture and graphic design. Discover how AI is reshaping creativity and why observing everyday life holds crucial value. The conversation emphasizes continuous learning and the deeper meanings behind design choices, setting the stage for future innovation in the field.

Dec 17, 2024 • 29min
Christmas special
In this festive episode recorded at Monocle’s annual Christmas Market, we discuss the art of gift wrapping with author and furoshiki expert Tomoko Kakita. Plus, designer Nika Zupanc on her collaboration with Italian brand Alessi, which incorporates Christmas iconography. Finally, we reflect on the joys of meaningful gift-giving at London’s SoShiro Gallery. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 12, 2024 • 6min
Contemporary architecture in Chiang Mai
Discover how architects in Chiang Mai are fusing traditional construction techniques with modern technology. The focus is on sustainable architecture that uses local materials, highlighting a commitment to environmental harmony. This innovative approach not only respects cultural heritage but also pushes the boundaries of contemporary design. Tune in for insights into the vibrant architectural scene in Thailand’s second city.

Dec 10, 2024 • 30min
Dafi Kühne, timelessness in design and Fernando Mendes
Swiss graphic designer Dafi Kühne explains why legibility is relative and we meet the president of the Instituto Sergio Rodrigues. Also, the architect Jeanne Autran-Edorh reflects on timelessness in architecture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 5, 2024 • 4min
Home comforts
Monocle’s design editor, Nic Monisse, reflects on how architecture is key to a strong sense of home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 3, 2024 • 30min
Soane Medal winner Hanif Kara, plus Rive Roshan
This year’s Soane Medal winner, Hanif Kara, joins us at Midori House. Plus, a studio visit to the Dutch artistic practice, Rive Roshan. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.