Design magazines are useful tools in my line of work. From them I seek inspiration, learn about new products and trends, and use them to stay in the know. I still subscribe to all types of publications; ranging from the standard American Elle, Dwell, to expensive European (no names now, stay tuned..). My guilty pleasure has always been to peruse the FREE retail catalogues that show up in my mailbox every month.
You know the ones — IKEA, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, DWR….etc. I am sure you get them too.
I just simply browse, create a wish list or better yet, critique their styling and generally put down the magazine uninspired. My beef is that most of these circulars, though displaying their merchandise, appear stale. They fail to inspire as everything in their display ads is from one place, their store.
Boring!
Stylistically West Elm nailed it this month with their September 2010 issue. They were able to appeal to a broader audience by selecting a careful blend of vintage finds with their current line.
Our philosophy has always been to mix items together like a recipe for a refined soup.
1. Mix the old with the new. 2. Season with some colour. 3. Embellish with some texture.
Makes me want to hit a few flea markets, and pick up few accessories from their store.
Nice work WE.
