December 30, 2023

 

Reflecting on Design & Décor magazine during 2023 

As we approach the end of yet another year, I ponder my decision to continue the legacy of this beloved magazine – and I cannot help thinking what an honour it is to keep it going. My dear mother Eve did an amazing job for 30 years, producing memorable editions that graced your homes for decades. I have now been on this journey for just over two years, and though it’s a tough act to follow, I’m seeing the fruit of my labours flourishing with each publication, as I strive to maintain the high standards the magazine has always delivered.

The year 2023 produced another two successful issues – numbers 105 and 106 – accumulating a constantly expanding collection of diverse themes. In fact, the articles in Design & Décor range from the showcasing of homes, restaurants, cafés, hotels, art galleries, and local businesses to highlighting beautiful gardens and restoration projects. We also present various recommendations on interiors, shopping, wines, cars, books, and of course, delicious recipes.

All these themes made for quite interesting proceedings, as my team and I visited and photographed several notable locations around our islands, encountered intriguing personalities, and held fascinating conversations that helped create the features in the magazine.

It always gives me a warm feeling when people open their homes to us, and I am truly thankful for the lovely individuals – both in Malta and Gozo – who so willingly allowed our readers a glimpse into their inner sanctum. I loved visiting various eateries and wine boutiques on the islands, either newly launched or long-established. With my content writer and photographer in tow, we happily studied their menus and tasted the delectable items on offer, enjoying the occasional glass of wine as a treat.

This year, we featured one of Malta’s historical luxury hotels several times, as we explored its affluent facilities and strolled leisurely through its magnificent gardens. We met up with talented artists who gladly shared their vision and displayed their art on our pages. I’m also positive you all find the professional tips from my in-house team of interior designers, personal shoppers, chefs, and wine experts extremely useful when it comes to your home projects, shopping expeditions, and food and beverage queries.

My love for our environment inspired me to delve deeper into ventures involving the renovation of old buildings and the recycling and restoration of used furniture, as well as promoting local businesses who employ sustainable production methods and eco-friendly materials and finishings. And it has never been this crucial to appreciate our few remaining gardens and green spaces and ensure they do not disappear completely.

All in a day’s work for our extraordinary publication!

Of course, producing the magazine is often exhausting, as we seek new ideas or chase up countless appointments that accommodate the busy schedules of all parties involved. My ever-patient graphic designers frequently scramble through looming deadlines to put together the finishing touches in time. But holding the printed product in my hand and seeing people enjoying the features always makes it worth the hard work.

Though it feels bittersweet not to have my mum still involved in the creation of each edition, I am eternally indebted to my outstanding team who works so tirelessly to support me, along with all our contributors, clients, readers, and followers.

None of this would be possible without each and every one of you – so, as 2023 draws to a close, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for being a part of this enlightening journey!

Together with my family, I wish you all a meaningful start to the New Year, as we look forward to bringing you even more incredible issues of Design & Décor during 2024!

 Buy the online issue of Design & Decor Autumn-Winter 2023 »