It goes without saying that today’s economy is affecting how we regard and enjoy our homes. In short, we as homeowners are turning our homes into personal retreats, year-round gathering places for family and friends, and even luxurious domains with amenities that rival what you’ll find at five-star resorts.

That’s because we as a nation are nesting now more than ever before. As such, we are investing in our homes to enable day-to-day convenience, talk-of-the-neighborhood entertainment, outdoor-sanctuary peace and quiet, and re-energizing relaxation. From kitchen design to bathroom makeovers to interior décor to landscaping…home projects are well worth the investment.

So as you plan your next project, we hope you look to our magazine to find resources suited to your style, taste, and vision. This year we extended our popular “Day Tripping” section to give you an overview of local shopping, including potential places for discovering your own must-have design elements. You’ll enjoy the treasure hunts we send you on in southern Massachusetts and Rhode Island!

We’ve also added two new sections. “A Closer Look” highlights selected businesses and artists. It gives you an in-depth view of places such as the tucked-away world of design materials at Walker Interiors in Middletown, Rhode Island, or the rich garden of floral-inspired home accessories at Flora in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts.

In addition to our Designers’ Best section, which spotlights some of the year’s hottest design projects and designers, our new Signature Style section features captivating design resources. Examples include interior designer Chris Benson’s B·Hive, which brings you stunning hand-cut crystal lamps from England, and Nanette Walsh’s La Petite Maison, a French boutique that captures all of your shopping senses.

And don’t forget to look for our “eco” symbol, which points out eco-friendly “green” options for your home. You can go “green,” for example, with Shaw Floor choices available at Factory Carpet Outlet in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Or you can check out architect Chip Webster’s inherently “green” Nantucket summer home.

Finally, you’ll enjoy reading this year’s story features. From a beautiful Adirondack-style camp …to a summer Osterville retreat for a fun-loving, close-knit family…to a delightful secret garden tended by equally delightful gardeners…these features require a cozy reading spot and fresh cup of coffee!

Here’s to transforming your home into your own special nest!

My best to you,

Lisa Schryver