The Life of the Automobile by Steven Parissien and Auto Biography by Mark Wallington – reviews

Is car worship declining? Joe Moran gets behind the wheel for two enjoyable histories of the automobile

Real books should be preserved like papyrus scrolls

In a future electronic world, there will be a ghastly contingency about the written word. Books have a new place as sacred objects, and libraries as museums

Beyond plastic: creating sustainable materials from recycled waste

New, innovative materials can be produced from everyday waste – could they offer a sustainable alternative to plastic or wood?

Who wants to spend £125,000 on a new amp for their stereo?

Naim Audio has unveiled a new amplification system so high end you need a special room to play it in

Top of the range – Wauquiez Centurion 57

  Naval architect and regatta racer Olivier Racoupeau has endowed the 17.4 m Centurion 57, which he has designed for Wauquiez (French manufacturer of Pilot Saloon and Centurion, high performance cruiser yachts), with superyacht attributes. Luxury and comfort dominate the interior. Waxed teak, leather, glass and stainless steel give the 9/10-type rigged sloop its own … Read more

Lauren Laverne on style: when art meets fashion

This year’s fashion is inspired by works of art. Choose paint splashes and bold prints to perfect the art of dressing