Thursday, November 1, 2007

What Design/Home Magazines Are Inspiring to You?

A few years ago, I found someone who shared my habit of buying duplicate design magazines. Why did Robyn and I buy duplicate magazines? Sometimes it was because of those issues with two different covers; other times I think it was due to faulty memory. I like to think it was because we were so pleasantly surprised when we scanned the contents that we temporarily forgot that we had already subscribed to the magazine. Somehow though, I never feel that I've wasted a cent even when I managed to buy more than one.

Here are the design magazines I can't live without:

• Mary Englebreit's Home Companion - Probably my favorite because of the blend between art and design. I just wish that it was published monthly!
• Traditional Home - I love fusion, so this magazine comes in a very close second because of the balanced coverage of traditional designs with a modern flair.
• Country Home - Again, a twist on design fusion with a blend of modern and country. Now all I need is a magazine that covers the melange of urban and country elements. Yum.
• Southern Living - I find this to be an excellent source for the southern/regional design perspective. And I love the featured gardens and recipes too.
• Cottage Living - This really doesn't deserve to be at the bottom of my shortlist. I LOVE this magazine. It makes me feel like I'm on a well-deserved vacation just by skimming the pages. My dog eared copies are forever at my bedside.

What's on your nightstand?

© 2007, CanvasCorp LLC.
www.CanvasCorp.com

What Design/Home Magazines Are Inspiring to You?
posted by CanvasCorp LLC on 10:06 AM

Design Dilemma

Sometimes executing a successful design is like walking a tightrope with a lamp in one hand, and candelabra in the other. With careful balance, you're able to blend your design vision with the specific needs of your client and walk across the rope without tumbling. I am sure your design favorites will, to some extent, influence the choices that are made; but ultimately your client has the final say on what makes the cut.

But what happens when your client can't or won't make a decision? One solution is to dig deeper. Ask more questions of your clients. Inquire about the function of the room, furniture placements, feelings, textures, and likes/dislikes. Use the Homespacing kits to talk through spacing options and reconfirm your commitment to make their space reflect the client's ideas.

How do you handle your indecisive clients?

© 2007, CanvasCorp LLC.
www.CanvasCorp.com

Design Dilemma
posted by CanvasCorp LLC on 10:03 AM