Mitchell is the founder and agency director of Motive Communications, a Vancouver-based agency specializing in public relations and social media strategies for businesses in the design, fashion and lifestyle world. Follow him on Twitter @mitchellfawcett.

Though I didn’t follow in the admirable footsteps of my dad and join the police force, my career in public relations comes with its own brand of danger. On a daily basis I face the very real fate of being crushed by a towering pile of magazines. An important part of the job is staying up to date on trends, understanding how publications work, and constantly expanding my database of contacts. I suppose hoarders share a similar risk… I promise my situation is much more sanitary.

I get particularly excited when a beautiful glossy design magazine appears in my mailbox. Interior design has always been a passion of mine, and I love the inspiration and aspiration that comes from flipping through some of my favourite publications. Here are a few of my top picks:

Gray Magazine

Gray Magazine

Why I Love It: Their focus on the Pacific Northwest shines a light on some of my favourite local designers, artists and retailers. Also they published this article on the name “Mitchell” last month, and who doesn’t love the sound of their own name?

You Should Pick Up a Copy If: …you love a subdued and muted design aesthetic. Think crisp and modern finishes with a West Coast twist.

ICON

ICON

Why I Love It: It has a cheeky and totally unconventional approach to modern design. You’ll see it here first.

You Should Pick Up a Copy If: …your recent quest for buried treasure paid off and you’ve got an extra $25,000 to spend on a stool that looks like cow udders.

House & Home

House and Home

Why I Love It: Their style is classic, approachable and livable. It’s also one of just a few all-Canadian design publications.

You Should Pick Up a Copy If: …your decorating budget is less than the cost of a new car and you have a healthy DIY attitude.

Dwell

Dwell

Why I Love It: They have totally nailed the art of modern urban living.

You Should Pick Up a Copy If: …you’re more likely to live in Gastown than Richmond.