David Michon: The Optimistic Critic Changing Design Discourse with his Must-Read SubStack 'For Scale'

In this refreshingly honest episode of Design Discord, Fernando Mastrangelo sits down with David Michon, the sharp, eloquent voice behind For Scale, the buzziest Substack in the design world right now.David shares how he went from writing for Monocle and Icon to creating his own independent platform for real design criticism. Together they unpack why so many design magazines feel identical, why celebrity homes dominate the covers, and how the industry has become strangely polite and risk-averse.They explore:Why “decor” might actually be a more honest word than “design”The liberating joy of imperfect, lived-in homes over sterile perfectionHow growing up in Winnipeg shaped David’s refreshing perspective on tasteThe myth of “timeless” design and why dated interiors can be incredibleWhat’s really wrong with events like Basic Space / Design SpaceThe missing critique in interiors and why optimistic criticism mattersDavid’s writing is smart, observational, and deeply human. He believes great interiors are about people, not just perfect objects — and that your home should never feel “finished.” This conversation will make you look at your own space differently and feel a whole lot better about the dents on your dining table.If you’re tired of aspirational interiors that feel fake and unattainable, this episode is for you. A must-listen for designers, design lovers, interior enthusiasts, and anyone who wants sharper, more honest conversations about the spaces we live in.Follow For Scale on Substack for David’s weekly writings that are quickly becoming essential reading in the industry.Timestamps:00:00 – Introducing David Michon & For Scale09:28 – Winnipeg roots and forming real taste13:00 – Reading rooms as people, not just objects15:00 – Why your home should never feel finished19:20 – Wealth, aspiration, and lived-in reality25:25 – The origin story of For Scale37:25 – Why David chooses “decor” over “design”47:30 – Honest critique of Basic Space52:00 – The future of For Scale: print, events & real-life energy