{Elle Decoration September 2010}

Another week means another September issue for us to enjoy. This week it's the turn of Elle Decoration, who have put together a good issue, but not an excellent one. Normally their covers are outstanding; vibrant and full of interest - July and August are strong examples of this - but September's, for me, didn't spark the same excitement as the last handful of issues. However, I needn't have feared for long because Michelle Ogundehin's excellently written Editor's letter (2) perfectly demonstrates the ethos of this magazine. Yes, it's about aspirational living, but at it's core it's about spending only when needed and making the most of what you've got. It's worth buying for her wise words alone. So, cover choices redeemed, we get a peek of Elle Deco's charity mugs (3) in aid of Shelter and a feature on the continuation of brights (4) in the high street collections this season. That gorgeous bathroom (5) sits within a spread on decorating with nudes and the quirky front doors (6) are from an editorial on making your home's exterior fabulous. A quick interview (8) with fellow Brit, Sophie Conran, and we're into the home tours (10, 11): sneak peeks include a light and airy Melbourne home; a versatile NYC loft; inside/outside living in Cape Town and a Norway retreat. There's an inspiring image for the 'High Hopes' opener (12) on extending kitchens upwards and a charming kitchen accessories spread (13, 14) follows. Vera Neumann (15) rounds off the issue and her words, "A bland cocoon is a dull existence" couldn't resonate with me any harder. P.S. There's also a great 'Space Plus' supplement free with the issue; I've picked out the highlights of it below (16, 17). Right then, what's inspired you most from the issue?

Elle Decoration