I am taking a bit of a departure today to share my thoughts about shifts that have been occurring within the design industry. Though this post is a bit more serious in nature, I do promise some great photos towards the end.
A few months back, I read an article on Architectural Digest's digital platform regarding summer travel. I had never before had such a strong reaction to an article on what one would consider to be a light topic - travel destinations that aren't so touristy. I wish I could say it had been a good reaction, but unfortunately it was not. If you are an avid traveler, please share your experience and expertise. By all means, offer people options they may not be aware of or may not have considered. My issue? The seemingly snide remarks regarding those destinations that were deemed touristy and the people that may chose to visit them. Now, I am not a journalist, and I am not commenting on whether or not this article was well written, only that the tone felt to me so beneath the standard to which I hold Architectural Digest as a publication. I don't believe it is necessary to be negative and/or insulting to one thing to give a positive light towards another. It was deeply upsetting.
A recent upset to the design community occurred with discharge of House Beautiful's Editor in Chief, Sophie Dow, and the changes being made to House Beautiful's digital platform and Instagram account. This esteemed publication has always been on the top of my list. It represented a level of utmost sophistication and provided its readers with design to aspire towards. My fear is that it may have lost these qualities to appeal to a new target audience. I can certainly welcome change and understand the importance of a brand refresh from time to time in order to stay relevant. My question is how far off brand does one go? Is this too far? Yes, these tongue-in-cheek posts offer humor, but are they bordering on distasteful? We have long been entering a new era where the standards of decorum are shifting. Are these highly regarded publications following suit?
While some are embracing the changes, others are taking a stance against them, with accounts such @theoldhousebeautiful popping up in retaliation. I very much appreciate this ode to all the incredible design that once graced the pages of this publication I love so dearly, and I applaud this mystery person for refusing to let it die.
I do hope that no matter your stance on these changes, you express your opinions courteously and with consideration for others. I also hope these publications are mindful of the type of message they want to send. In the meantime, below are a few photos of some of my all-time favorite design featured in "the old" House Beautiful.
Next week it's back to the fun stuff! As the holidays are approaching, I will be sharing tips on prepping your holiday table and making your home guest-ready. Stay tuned!
Lissette