The Architecture of Sound From Santiago Calatrava's magnificent opera house in Valencia to Frank Gehry's extraordinary concert hall in downtown Los Angeles, the sound of music is being rethought, refreshed, and transformed by master builders throughout the world.
Tokyo Nocturnes In the wee hours of the morning, down back alleys and behind hidden doors, JOSHUA COOPER RAMO uncovers a city just beginning to come alive.
Viennese Modern Two brothers are reviving the art—and legendary craftsmanship—of the Wiener Werkstätte.
Consuming Passions
Private Obsessions of a Remarkable Collector Writer Paul Theroux has traveled the world by plane, train, horse, and foot. For his book North Star Africa, he went by canoe, "chicken bus," and cattle truck from Cairo to Cape Town. Along the way he amassed a lifetime of knowledge—and favorite things.
Culture Watch
Art of the Party Where are Truman and his swans (see below) when we need them? There are, despite events to the contrary, intelligent signs of revitalized life on the cultural party front. Four global fêtes in particular seem worth the time and price of admission.
Prosperity Index What soared and what crashed during this record-setting auction year; plus a preview of the two most anticipated sales coming up this spring.
The New Seven Wonders Since ancient times, mankind has celebrated—and ranked—its greatest architectural achievements. Critic MARTIN FILLER can't resist his own update.
The Smart Guide A highly selective directory of this season's cultural events
Dispatch
Dubai's Big Boom Built on sand, oil, and gold-plated everything, a new Xanadu is rising in the Middle East. SOPHY ROBERTS reports from the land of caviar facials and indoor ski slopes.
Dress Code
Fendi's Art and Commerce The fashion house known for big-time fur and baguette bags sponsors a design fellowship at the American Academy in Rome.
Kiwi's Big Adventures A 500-foot drop to the sea? Giant punga ferns? Geysers? On New Zealand's golf courses, there's always something unexpected around the bend. GARY FISKETJON tees up in the land of big surprises.
The Volcano Lovers High on Mount Etna, three vintners of extraordinary talent are reinvigorating the winemaking traditions of Sicily's still-active volcano.
Worldly Goods
6 City Art Buying Guide Every summer, collectors from around the world flock to these market hot spots in search of the ultimate piece. Here, the fairs, galleries, and people to know.
Book Keeping Prolific photographer, collector, and author Martin Parr expands his definitive account of an eye-popping genre.
Turning The Tables A new breed of record players puts a 21st-century spin on decades-old technology, with astonishing price tags as well.
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Departures Editor in Chief Richard David Story introduces the wildest innovations in contemporary luxury, airing on Plum TV®. The segments will be broadcast during Connections with Jennie Saunders beginning August 23. View programming schedule
