craftsmanship
Page 13
Outside the box
French luxury label Moynat, famed for its sturdy trunks, fell out of favour in the 1970s. A recent relaunch proves there’s still a market for tradition with a contemporary twist.
Forking out
In the Netherlands, a fourth-generation family of blacksmiths has found success through dedication to simple quality. Monocle meets the men from DeWit, digging deep for the garden tool industry.
Good wood
Since 1880, Swiss furniture maker Horgenglarus has used time-honoured techniques to create its classic, sturdy chairs. A byword for Swissness, they are used by parliament and the public alike.
The hot ticket
The Ajeto glassmaking factory makes one-off pieces to commission for artists and designers. Glass master and owner Petr Novotný believes this is the way forward for the industry – not mass production.
Expo 50: Secure influence
In a former jail, now home to the American College of Building Arts, students are learning traditional restoration techniques and preserving their city of Charleston, South Carolina, in the process.
Rugs to riches
The ‘made in Switzerland’ tag is more associated with precise timekeeping than carpets. But one firm in Altbüron is showing that delivering a high-quality product can go a long way.
Snappy happy
The Alpa is a cult camera for professionals, thanks to its razor-sharp detail. After disappearing in the 1990s, Monocle talks to the Zürich-based couple who decided to resurrect the iconic brand.
Scrubbed up
Iris Hantverk makes brushes that are as good-looking as they are hard-working, using methods that date back to the late 1800s.
Inventory No. 40
A round-up of practical and pretty things, including a dog bowl that doesn’t go walkies and a baby soap that is a national institution.
Schools of thought
With design playing a more integrated role in government and business strategy around the world, Monocle hunts down the establishments spear-heading new movements and others that are keeping traditional ones alive.
