Urbanism
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The perfect fit
Big supermarkets are banned, independent businesses abound and there’s a human scale on the shop floor. All of this makes Paris Europe’s retail capital.
In good health
A country club needn’t be an exclusive haven for the super-rich. Here, we outline our dream for a perfect health club: open to all, accessible by bicycle and offering only the finest service.
Rebuilding America
These 10 creative ventures – online, community-focused and commercial – are remaking American cities. They include museum-hotel founders, an Art Walk organiser and an entrepreneur creating websites for socially conscious citizens.
The buzz driver
Kajima, one of Japan’s largest engineering firms, is at the forefront of urban biodiversity. We meet Yoriyuki Yamada, the man who sees the future in the birds and the bees.
Expo 35: Beirut
International architecture firms and boutique hotels are catching on to Beirut, the friendliest and most vibrant city in the Middle East. Discover a metropolis whose charm means it remains an exceptional place to live.
Creative directors
Quality of life isn't just cycle lanes and roof gardens. Meet five creative players who are using culture to engage residents and improve their neighbourhoods, from Los Angeles to Johannesburg and Tokyo.
A world of good
Once again, we've been busy applying the annual Monocle metrics test to cities across the globe. Here are the results.
Neighbourhood Watch
From Dutch bread-making philanthropists to a pioneering food co-op in the heart of London, vernacular retail is thriving. Even an established supermarket giant is getting in on the local act.
Diplomacy rules
Geneva is a world-shaper and a cultural hub on the rise in our Quality of Life index. But with high costs and rival cities, can it hold on to its unique role?
Finnish beginning
Helsinki, the World Design Capital for 2012, is having a design renaissance. Officials, academics and designers are inspired to prove it isn’t stuck in the shade of its mid-century heritage.
