6 Cool Subscriptions for Architects and Designers
I am always looking for new artists, architects, projects, and tools to keep me inspired. There is so much great work going on in the world right now and below are some of my favorite magazines that showcase these projects. Enki Magazine, Dwell, Ark Journal and Gagosian are all different in content but similar in aesthetics, even though they are from different parts of the world. I am so drawn to them all for inspiration in my own work. Field Notes and Blackwing pencils are two of my favorite everyday tools and I love that they have a subscription service. I love to receive mail and the mystery of what the next box will hold is such a nice simple pleasure.
Field Notes notebooks are the perfect size to tuck into a pocket, purse or bag. My creative ideas come to me in the most unsuspecting moments and it is nice to have a notebook on hand. Their subscriptions are mailed quarterly, each with a new theme and design. Field Notes also makes films about each quarterly edition, which you can find here. It is such an innovative, refreshing approach to product design.
Blackwing pencils are a cult favorite and the 602 is the most famous of the lineup. Used by creators of all genres, including John Steinbeck and Chuck Jones, this pencil has a certain reputation to uphold. Blackwing collaborates with designers and companies, like Obey Giant and Grovemade, to create specialty limited edition designs too. Blackwing Volume 155 is a tribute to the Bauhaus school while Volume 33 1/3 is a nod to vinyl records. The cool factor of this brand is amazing and the inspiration runs deep. I like the classic Blackwing Matte for it’s dark line and softness. The variations are endless.
Enki Magazine for Modern Living is published in London and details homes from around the globe. Each feature has a neutral, modern color palette and sensibility. It is a very peaceful magazine to read and shows many designers that I may not come across in other publications. There is also a technology section which discusses new inventions, computers and tech gadgets that architects might enjoy. It’s a lovely read!
Dwell Magazine is perhaps the most well known of this bunch and I have been reading it since the first issue. Out of San Francisco, the journal walks us through homes and spaces from the United States and throughout the world. The style is also modern, with varied color palettes and styles of modernity. Furniture, lighting, book reviews and editorials also add to the depth of the magazine. There is a large website behind this magazine and also a subscription based area to the website, Dwell +, for deeper content. It’s a must for all designers. I have always wanted to be published in Dwell and still hold that dream. One day, I’m certain of it!
Ark Journal is a beautifully curated publication from Sweden. Everything in the journal seems to flow together, from the articles to the advertisements. It is such a pleasure to pour through this biannual magazine. I picked up Volume 1 and have not looked back. The journal has four different covers for each issue, so you can pick which one speaks to you. They are all always beautiful. If you like architecture, interiors, art, and perfect curation, you will love this.
Gagosian Quarterly will take your breath away. The magazine discusses current exhibitions and artists around the world. Each issue breathes new life and inspiration into existence. The Gagosian galleries are located all around the world and so too are the artists they feature. It is a tour of culture and art in this large format magazine. Even the advertisements look like art pieces. It’s always a magical experience getting the next Quarterly.
Enjoy your week! I hope these ideas inspire you to go out and do your own great work. We could always use more beautiful designs in the world. xo, Lisa
