Another year is in the books, folks. And it was one of my favorites…
It’s the year I was given back something I lost years ago: leading this magazine. When I had to step away for a bit after receiving my son’s autism diagnosis, I had no idea what the years ahead had in store for all of us. Man, if I’d only had a crystal ball (I would have promptly thrown it away, said this thing must be defective, ha!)
But here we are, on the other side of the pandemic, navigating our way through life—so many of us changed for so many different reasons. I think 2023 was the year most of us finally got back to a well-deserved new(ish) normal. And while we can’t exactly help with the life “stuff,” I do hope that our content helps you navigate your way through your profession. If only a few of you have gotten inspiration, knowledge, guidance or even just a smile out of these pages over the past 12 months, then well, our work here is done. We have some new things planned for you in 2024 and I mean it when I say that I am always open to all criticisms and suggestions as we journey forward. So please, never hesitate to write me at [email protected].
For our closing issue of the year, we wanted to inject a little bit more of our own voices, so you can see how our thought process works as we develop these issues. You’ll find that in our Best of Year feature (page 21), where Lauren, Rob and I spotlight our favorite projects. You’ll find out why we covered them, what areas are real standouts and what products make them so. And thanks to Lauren’s nudging, you’ll find our beloved Editors’ Holiday Gift Guide has returned in our Industry section (page 10). We were only able to include a sampling here in print, but it’s much more robust online, so go take a look at https://iands.design/33015665 if you’re still in need of some design-driven gifts for your loved ones. There’s a little something for every personality type in your life.
We also explore the idea in this issue that there’s “Nothing Like the Original,” as our cover says. The adaptive reuse projects we featured are proof that all markets from life sciences to hospitality can take advantage of this practice that is not only more sustainable but also gives interiors a character and a story that new construction simply can’t match—as does the art of hand-drawing. I sure do hope it’s not a dying one as the elegance displayed in those shared with us for this feature on page 26 translates into some amazing work. We thank all those who opened up their sketchbook to share these with us. It’s no different than reading someone’s diary.
Speaking of diaries: I wouldn’t mind at the least trying to help with the “life stuff” mentioned above. You’ve got my email, girlfriend.
And finally, I decided to include a special pic to close out the year, one from much warmer days as you'll see from our shorts and bare feet. I’m so grateful for these three guys that I get to call my family. I hope you get to spend the holiday season with people that you love as much as I love them.
Here’s to a fabulous new year!
AnnMarie Martin
