As soon as I heard the theme for the latest Urbis magazine, I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy. The Black + White Issue goes on sale today, and having had the pleasure of receiving one when it was hot off the press last week, I'm happy to report that it is a must-read. For fellow lovers of monochrome design, this is one you must add to your collection.
![]()
This issue also marks the first for new editor Federico Monsalve, a writer and journalist whose work has appeared in a range of local and international media including The New Zealand Herald, Monocle (UK), Urbis, Flying Nun, ARTnews (NY) and Interior. He says that "A thoughtful matching of black with white can be elegant, visually striking, and above all, timeless". I couldn't agree more.
Here's a peek at what's inside.
![]()
![]()
![]()
Photography by Simon Devitt
The cover home features a bold and expressive Waiheke house full of greyscale goodness. Inspired by a simple tent, the house designed and owned by architect Chris Tate is clearly not your typical Kiwi bach. Essentially an oversized pup tent surrounded by ferns and palms, the tranquil interior features a compact balance of curves, angles, planes and volumes. Black satin surfaces in the kitchen provide a striking contrast to the incredible centrepiece, a ribbon-like staircase and simple white Knoll table and Casalino chairs.
![]()
![]()
Styling by Juliette Wanty and photography by Toaki Okano
Beautiful black and white styling with a focus on shape and texture, this shoot features exquisite furniture, art and objects from a range of local and international designers including Douglas and Bec, Derek Henderson, Kartell, HAY and Tom Dixon.
![]()
![]()
![]()
![]()
Photography by Justin Alexander
This Sydney beachside apartment has been beautifully renovated by Decus Interiors who took their queues from the oceanside setting. The natural palette has been layered with fresh coastal accents and infused with texture and personality. The home features some incredible design pieces such as the Borge Mogensen’s black leather Spanish Chair, Moroso’s dark grey Redondo Chair by Patricia Urquiola and Eero Saarinen’s white marble dining table.
![]()
Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC
The Black + White issue is packed with many more inspiring spaces, design, people and places, with a beautiful feature on Helsinki being a definite highlight for me. Pick up a copy today. You won't be disappointed!
Cover shot styled by Tami Christiansen and photographed by Nathalie Krag
Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC
Here's a peek at what's inside.
The cover home features a bold and expressive Waiheke house full of greyscale goodness. Inspired by a simple tent, the house designed and owned by architect Chris Tate is clearly not your typical Kiwi bach. Essentially an oversized pup tent surrounded by ferns and palms, the tranquil interior features a compact balance of curves, angles, planes and volumes. Black satin surfaces in the kitchen provide a striking contrast to the incredible centrepiece, a ribbon-like staircase and simple white Knoll table and Casalino chairs.
Beautiful black and white styling with a focus on shape and texture, this shoot features exquisite furniture, art and objects from a range of local and international designers including Douglas and Bec, Derek Henderson, Kartell, HAY and Tom Dixon.
This Sydney beachside apartment has been beautifully renovated by Decus Interiors who took their queues from the oceanside setting. The natural palette has been layered with fresh coastal accents and infused with texture and personality. The home features some incredible design pieces such as the Borge Mogensen’s black leather Spanish Chair, Moroso’s dark grey Redondo Chair by Patricia Urquiola and Eero Saarinen’s white marble dining table.
The Black + White issue is packed with many more inspiring spaces, design, people and places, with a beautiful feature on Helsinki being a definite highlight for me. Pick up a copy today. You won't be disappointed!
Cover shot styled by Tami Christiansen and photographed by Nathalie Krag
Images courtesy of Urbis