Where's the rule that says a home office has to be drab, dull and decoratively challenged? There's not one, so I say decorate the place you work with abandon! Turn it into a showcase of good taste and fine furniture. Why not? After all, if you're going to spend the better part of your days (and nights, for you workaholics) in this place, make it aesthetically appealing and comfortably stylish, yet functional. A place where you enjoy spending time. My own home office underwent a dramatic transformation a couple of years ago, from "early college dorm room" to "adult with fine furniture sensibilities."

That said, summer vacation is winding down and the new academic year is perched on the horizon. With the kids back in school, you'll have time to indulge in a few fabulous pieces for your home office. A posh leather swivel chair, an antique-style wooden filing cabinet, a Shaker computer desk -- you won't believe the difference…

While you're relaxing in your new chair at your new desk, be sure to enjoy this month's issue of Design Insider. The Q&A features some fascinating insights from Jena Hall, a designer of interiors, furniture and accessories whose client list includes American Leather, Woodard, Lyon-Shaw and other big furniture names. Hall talks about what’s hot right now in home furnishings and what trends to expect in furniture design over the next few seasons. And in Shoptalk, you'll take a dazzling tour of the Orient with our selection of exotic and beautifully crafted Chinoiserie and japanned pieces from the Frontera showroom. Among the choices are a stunning japanned Secretary, a carved Mandarin Armchair in the Chinese Chippendale style, a lacquered bamboo Mirror, a porcelain and rosewood Lamp and more.

For a riveting read, flip to Profiles in Design. This month, DI Assistant Editor Katherine Pannill offers a thought-provoking look at award-winning author Edith Wharton (of Ethan Frome fame), whose contributions to the world of American interior design and decoration have left an indelible imprint on generations of designers since. Surprised? So were we…

And while you’re perusing the pages of Design Insider, take a moment to send in your comments, suggestions or (constructive) criticism – we’re in a constant state of self-improvement. So drop me a line at editor@frontera.com.



Cristina Adams