FROM THE EDITOR

Home… our sanctuary and our refuge, particularly at this time of year when the temperature drops and the days get shorter. On goes the heating, out come the blankets and throws, the candles are lit and the focus is on warmth and comfort. The Cosy Home is the theme of this month’s Design My Space feature - the first in a new series in which we help you find looks you love and show how to put them together (page 19).

Since moving house earlier this year, I’ve amassed a stack of inspirational images and design ideas from magazines and websites, boxes of fabric, tile and paint samples, and countless notes about where to source items such as door furniture and light switches. Despite working in the industry, when it comes to putting a decorating scheme together, I still find it difficult to know where to start! As well as showcasing trends and seasonal themes, Design My Space will demonstrate how creating moodboards can help clarify your ideas and narrow down your choices. Leading experts on everything from choosing paint colours to the importance of good lighting will be sharing their secrets. We hope you’ll find this helpful.

It’s not just about hibernating indoors this month though. One of my most memorable get-togethers with friends wasn’t a formal dinner party but an outdoor feast in a field in the middle of winter. Gathered around a glowing fire in our hats, gloves and scarves, dining by starlight was truly magical and the food tasted all the more delicious for being cooked on the smoky flames. If you like the idea of doing something similar, see page 122. Enjoy the issue and see you next month…