Living in a brave new world when all this is over

IF there has been one upside to the Covid-19 crisis, it has been the environment. As entire countries go on lockdown, we're reading stories about clearer skies, cleaner air, wild animals returning to the land and lakes once polluted by humans. But rather than hailing it as a welcome respite for mother nature, the real issue is: Will it last?

In Friday's issue of Weekend magazine, academics and industry players in the urban environment sector weigh in on what the world post Covid-19 might look like. And the general consensus is that old habits will return and things will go back to pre-Covid status quo unless governments lead the way to a more environmentally sustainable recovery. This means relooking our relationship with the environment, from the way we farm to the way buildings and infrastructure are constructed.

At the same time, climate-conscious architect Jason Pomeroy shares his thoughts on the effects of Covid-19 on the environment and how architectural practices will change after the pandemic.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the dizzying array of takeaway dining options from both big and small restaurants, a growing cottage industry of Singapore chefs is emerging to offer small batch cooking and a personalised approach to food. As people try to come to terms with life during crisis, these young chefs offer simple, home-style cooking that warms the heart.

Elsewhere, we visit a home that's turned into a green oasis with a garden on every floor; interior design doyenne Kelly Wearstler offers tips to brighten up your surroundings; and find out which are the best digital museum tours to go on without getting off your couch.