EDITOR'S LETTER

As Florida has grown, so has the area's diversity of design. In this issue we share with you four very different homes for four very different families in Palm Beach County.

In one case, a Toronto husband and wife wanted a getaway for themselves that could also accommodate visits from their children and young grandchildren. They turned to designer David Powell, of the interior design and furnishings house Powell & Bonnell, who transformed a tired corner penthouse in a landmark Edward Durrell Stone building on South Ocean into a sexy and intimate space that becomes open and airy when the family arrives. How does one design do all this? See William Weathersby Jr.'s story, "Livable Elegance."

Another family that lives among beautiful things while making sure their home is still human and livable is Susan and Wolfgang Hofherr, their daughter Xenia and their terrier mix, Rocky ("Landmark Charm," by Saxon Henry). When they came across the 1925 Florida Colonial they wanted to call home, they did everything to make sure the house, guesthouse and gardens reflected their personal sensibilities but was not too precious, practicing Wolfgang's philosophy of "less is more." The Hofherrs live with a mix of contemporary furnishings, antiques and fine art. Their backgrounds in design and constant search for the best in garden antiques for their store Authentic Provence has given them a keen eye to create this special home.

If you want to hear more from David Powell, along with A. Keith Powell (no relation), another fine designer whose work is showcased in this month's magazine, please join me at the Design Center of the Americas (DCOTA), where I will be hosting the discussion, "Diversity of Design in Florida", January 24 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Hope to see you soon!

Barbara L. Dixon
Editorial Director
barbara.dixon@hcandg.com