Editor discusses magazine changes

WASHINGTON POST
Mark Mayfield -- editor in chief of House Beautiful magazine and previously editor of Traditional Home and Southern Accents -- took the helm of House Beautiful last July. Since then, he's given the magazine a makeover as he navigated a choppy economy while eking out a 1 percent rise in circulation and subscriptions in the second half of the year.
We spoke with Mayfield about design in 2003.
Q. How does the international situation and threat of war affect interior design?
A. After Sept. 11, people's priorities changed, and I think it has strengthened the traditional style out there. There is less emphasis on modern. My challenge in the magazine is to show traditional that is fresh, not stuffy. Plus include something contemporary in every issue. We need to be accessible yet sophisticated in what we do.
Q. Why do you think designers are doing more traditional?
A. Clients want things that are warm and cozy and comfortable. There is more color and pattern in fabric. People are looking into more wallpaper again, too.