Genre Analysis:
Architecture Magazine Covers

2021 Architecture Magazine Covers: What Makes Them and Why That Matters.

As a design student specializing in both architecture and graphic design, it can be difficult to see an overlap. While there are multiple places these two subjects overlap, magazines are one of particular interest. This website seeks to break down what goes into this genre, and why those choices matter.

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Who is This For and What is an architecture magazine cover anyway?

Architectural magazines combine the graphic design of advertisements and publications with the images and language of architecture. As a student studying these two fields, or perhaps a magazine designer, the covers are a great specific case study of this genre. The covers specifically need to catch the eye of a passerby in order to be effective. And their limited space means they must be efficient in their representation of the contents of the magazine. This overlap means that not only are graphic designers (you) a part of the production process, but so are the writers of the articles themselves.

This website is made specifically for students who have this overlap between graphic design and architecture. Students who are interested in architecture and want to learn about how they can apply their graphic design skills to this field.

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Rhetorical Situation

Modern in Denver

the cover of modern in denver

The first sample I am analyzing is the cover of the winter edition of Modern in Denver, wIth William Logan as the editor. The audience of this magazine seems straightforward. From the title you would guess that this magazine is specifically made for people interested in modern architecture, who live in Denver, Colorado. But that is only their primary audience, MID states on their website that they also strive to discuss architecture from all over, and not be limited to their namesake.

“We celebrate modern design and living in Colorado. But we balk at the walls of limitation that a title constructs! We’re much more than a magazine. MID is also a platform for discussing and exploring outside-the-box ways of living that are inspired by modern design and practices.” (Modern in Denver)

MID states on their website that the purpose of their magazine is to inspire and open up their audience to the world of modern architecture in an effort to enrich their communities.

“MID also introduces our local audience to a worldview of design, architecture and lifestyle that we hope will influence and enrich our evolving community.” (Modern in Denver)

This edition of Modern in Denver was published in winter of 2021. It can be found either in person as a physical print, or online as a digital pdf. It takes the typical form of a magazine and general physical print (vertical orientation, either paper or digital, etc.).

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Ocean Modern

the cover of ocean modern

My second sample is from Ocean Modern’s only edition, made by John Lamkin. Lamkin states that his magazine is meant for any who feel ‘stifled by everyday life’. Those who are interested in architecture, or even just art in general, and typically those who either don't live near the coast themselves, or who do but have yet to truly reflect on it.

“Ocean Modern Home is a lifestyle brand and publication that seeks to inspire others by showcasing some of the best in modern and contemporary designs located throughout various coastal areas” (Lamkin 4)

His purpose in publishing this magazine was to inspire his audience with the Ocean Modern is available online; This publication is inspired both by Visual Acoustics, and by its context. Lamkin states in the publication that his time spent in lockdown during 2020 was what caused him to reflect and develop this idea. In the midst of this period of adversity, I found myself with time to truly reflect on what matters most. I spent several days going through my personal journals reviewing ideas and visions that I had recorded over the years. One vision that stood out from the rest was what you are now encountering in Ocean Modern magazine and website.

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Residential Design

the cover of residential design

My third and final sample is the winter edition of Residential Design, edited by S. Claire Conroy. Residential Design states on their website that their magazine is made for designers and architects. It is made for people involved in the actual process instead of simply admiring the end result.

“We’re here to fuel that passion and to provide the high-level, substantive information you need to make your clients’ individual dreams come true. We believe that “design” isn’t just a noun, it’s a verb—an ongoing effort among all the pros involved in a custom residential project.” (Residential Design)

The purpose of Residential Design is to be a source of inspiration and a source of tips & developments concerning the actual process of designing a space of residence.

“We’re committed to providing indispensable insight and expert guidance into the practice of residential architecture and construction” (Residential Design)

RD is available both online and as a physical print.