YOUR HOME IS A LIFE
Wise words indeed, as uttered by Ilse
Crawford, who founded this magazine back in 1989. To mark our
30th anniversary, we both met last month to discuss our thoughts on ELLE Decoration, how the brand and the world have changed since the end of the 1980s and how her experience of editing has shaped her approach to design. It was a fascinating couple of hours, and her intelligent and considered approach to the way we live was so inspiring. Our discussion can be found in full on page 86.
I was musing on Crawford’s words as we compiled this month’s annual exploration of the worlds of interior design and architecture. So much of what she has achieved – this magazine, her products, the interiors and buildings she has worked on – are focused on the vibrant rituals and emotional interactions of our daily lives, and it’s this that I wanted to emphasise. Architecture is not simply a collection of bricks and windows, and rooms are not just a random assortment of decoration and furniture. Without people in them, they are only vacant spaces.
It’s all about searching out the human angle, and to do so, we’ve looked to the future at the rising number of architect-led, co-living initiatives – each with the aim of creating a real sense of community at a time where we seem to have lost this in many of our towns and cities. We’ve also sought out the unsung stars of British interior design, who are injecting homes and commercial projects with real warmth and personality.
Plus, I’m sure many of you are as obsessed as I am with the dream homes for sale on property website The Modern House. We’ve asked the founders to tell their story and impart their wisdom on stylish ways to sell your own home… As ever, when it comes to our relationship with where we live, it’s about how it makes you feel. Striking a balance between function and fantasy is how to bring your home to life.