Future Mapping Company Berlin

A detail-rich take on the modern map that is equal parts informative and decorative

Though maps began as utility-minded reference tools, they’ve always had artistic elements. From elaborate compass roses and sea monsters that lurk near remote coastlines to carefully selected color palettes, the aesthetics of maps sometimes even trump accuracy. We’ve been following Future Mapping Company since the East London outfit’s early days and are continually impressed by their ability to pack information beautifully into an expertly executed …

New Visual Identity for Norway’s National Parks

Scandinavia is known for its widespread design sensibility, but no country has embraced contemporary graphic design at the institutional level quite like Norway. After commissioning top graphic designers to modernize the visuals of their passports and banknotes, now the country’s national parks can boast of their own acclaimed graphics design. Architecture and design firm Snøhetta—whose pixelated design was selected to appear on Norway’s money—brings a …

Aether Horizon Motorcycle Jacket

Functional and with plenty of safety features, this piece doesn't sacrifice aesthetics

Action apparel company Aether—whose ethos is to create the most durable, minimal and modern-minded gear—has just released one of the best motorcycle jackets we’ve had our hands on in some time. Aesthetically, the Horizon is much like Aether’s jacket intended for men (called the Skyline) but upon closer inspection, the Horizon is far from just a “women’s version.” With sealed seams, the three-layer, abrasion-resistant shell …