Sure, colors have come into and out of favor, technology has influenced the way we live (and produce a magazine), and even our photographic style has evolved. But our commitment to the enduring themes of beauty, comfort, personal style, classical influences, natural elements, and traditional architecture has remained firm.

We asked a few of our friends for their thoughts on each of these themes and selected some of our favorite images from the past to accompany their prose. We hope all illustrate why we will always be passionate about timeless design.

ENDURING THEMES

Finding Beauty Designer Matthew White grew up in the Texas Panhandle where he was inspired by an industrious mother and improbable surroundings

Comfortably Chic Decorating doyenne and author Bunny Williams recounts an experience from her early days at Parish-Hadley and shares her tips for rooms that are both elegant and at ease

Getting Personal Author Julia Reed talks about the impact one decorator had on her life and the objects and styles that have made an indelible impression on her interiors

A Love of the Classics Antiques dealer and decorator Patrick Dunne's interiors are beguiling because of their ability embrace both old and new elements to show how classical bones are always in style

Seeking Nature Contributing editor Carol Isaak Barden looks back to the nature of her childhood and rediscovers a world of peace and serenity

At One With Tradition A Southerner by choice rather than by birth, architect Russell Versaci's love of traditional Southern architecture begins at the front porch