
The Urbanist
With an influential audience of city mayors, urban planners and architects, this is Monocle’s guide to making better cities, be it new technology, state-of-the-art subways or compact apartments. Nominee in the Smartest Podcast category of the 2019 British Podcast awards.
Latest episodes

Mar 17, 2025 • 7min
Tall Stories 450: The Warburg Institute, London
Sarah Grice explores the history and current day offerings of the Warburg Institute Library.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 13, 2025 • 38min
Mipim 2025: meet the mayors
We are on the ground in Cannes for the global urban festival Mipim, where we speak with mayors from around the world who are looking to stoke interest in their cities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 10, 2025 • 7min
Tall Stories 449: Circo Voador, Rio de Janeiro
Tomas Pinheiro tells us how concert venue Circo Voador became so intertwined with Brazilian music that it was named an intangible cultural heritage site.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 6, 2025 • 31min
The Round megadevelopment in London and air pollution in Bangkok
We explore The Round, a new almost 93,000 sq m landmark development in London, to hear how developers are putting community at its core. Plus: we’re in Bangkok to discover how the city is tackling its suffocating air pollution. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 3, 2025 • 8min
Tall Stories 448: Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas
Camille Rodríguez Montilla takes us to Universidad Central de Venezuela to see why it means so much to its students, alumni and the city as a whole.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 27, 2025 • 30min
Revisiting, reviewing and restoring the city
Sean Mikhailov, a writer renowned for his exploration of Toronto's neighborhoods, and Stefano Boeri, the visionary Italian architect behind Milan's Bosco Verticale, join the discussion. They reflect on the transformative power of urban architecture, celebrating the integration of nature into city life with Bosco Verticale. Mikhailov shares insights from a decade of urban change in Toronto, emphasizing the importance of memory and heritage. They also delve into the meticulous restoration of Haveli Dharampura in Old Delhi, showcasing how architecture revives cultural identity.

Feb 24, 2025 • 6min
Tall Stories 447: Kennedy Park, Lima
Explore the enchanting Kennedy Park in Lima, famed for its friendly feline residents that captivate everyone who visits. Discover its rich cultural tapestry, interwoven with history dating back to indigenous agriculture and honoring John F. Kennedy. The park is a lively hub, offering local art, delicious food, and a backdrop of buzzing vendors. Don't miss the dynamic Chabuca Grande Amphitheatre, where history and community events come alive. It's a delightful fusion of nature and culture.

Feb 20, 2025 • 30min
Digital democracy and the new Riyadh Metro
Vietze van Ransbeek, CEO of GoVocal, shares insights on how digital platforms can revitalize local democracy by enhancing citizen engagement in decision-making. Morwina Hall, Executive Director at Related Argent, discusses the innovative Brent Cross Town project, Europe's first digitally connected neighborhood prioritizing climate resilience. They also explore the remarkable Riyadh Metro, the world's longest driverless transit system, showcasing its convenience and stunning architecture, including designs by Zaha Hadid.

Feb 17, 2025 • 9min
Tall Stories 446: Villa Rezek, Vienna
Alexei Korolyov, an expert on Viennese modernism, delves into the refurbishment of Villa Rezek, a vital example of 1930s architectural brilliance. He shares the unique story of its original residents, the Rezek family, and their escape from Austria during the Nazi regime. The meticulous restoration process is highlighted, showcasing the villa's intricate craftsmanship and distinctive retractable windows. Korolyov also discusses the challenges and joys experienced by a family living in this restored historic gem, blending the past with present life.

4 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 31min
Developing London
Simon Lewis, Planning and Development Director at St James and St William, discusses the fascinating restoration of London's historic gas holders, emphasizing their engineering beauty and community significance. Glenn Howells, founder of Howells, shares insights on transforming Canary Wharf with the vibrant Eden Dock, aiming for ecological balance and community involvement. Tamsin Ace, leading East Bank, highlights its role as a cultural hub near the Olympic Park, promoting socio-economic growth through partnerships with institutions like the V&A and BBC.
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