If you're even the tiniest bit into home decor and design, this is a great starter magazine for you, as it's right in the middle between Better Homes & Gardens and Architectural Digest.
But I Can't Afford Anything I See!
Oh yes, you can. Keep in mind that design magazines aren't telling you that you must run out and purchase each piece featured in their glossy pages. Metropolitan Home features design tips for everyone -- you just have to know where to look, and how to read a design magazine.
Look at the colors used and the textures of the fabrics -- that's where your ideas will come from, and this magazine is chock-full of terrific ideas. Anyone can incorporate a splash of color or an interesting fabric without spending a fortune. With clear splashy photos and just the right amount of accompanying text, Metropolitan Home makes it easy to understand design concepts that would work for any home and any budget.
Real-Life Design for Real-Life People
One of the things I really appreciate about this magazine is that they don't assume their readers are living in industrial lofts with poured-concrete floors, or large country estates full of ancient antiques. They also tend to have articles on families with children, too, which is nice for those of us who are into design but understand that a two-year-old may not be able to keep sticky fingers to himself.
The annual "Color" issue features the new colors that designers will be using in the coming year -- there's always something fresh and exciting in that issue. Last year's "Kids' Bedrooms" issue was terrific -- a little upscale, but again, full of great ideas.
The key to getting the most out of any design magazine is to look for ideas instead of feeling pressured to buy the same items the magazine features. Metropolitan Home always makes it easy with their mix of antiques, Ikea pieces, and flea-market finds. A terrific magazine at less than half the price than other design magazines of this quality. For approximately $10 a year, you can transform your home month after month, or gather ideas for the future.
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