Chris Madden magazine on the way

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 1/18/2005 2:01:00 PM

NEW YORK — Designer Chris Casson Madden, interior decorator to celebrities, best-selling author of home decor books and most recently home textiles brand name at JCPenney, is launching her own decorating magazine May 3 with publisher Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S.

The debut of Madden’s not-yet-named magazine will strategically coincide with the release of her new spring collection at JCPenney. Initial distribution will comprise 400,000 copies at newsstands, with 50,000 copies to be distributed at JCPenney’s retail locations.

The not-yet-named magazine will center on renewal, celebration and simplicity — themes on which Madden said she bases her decorating philosophy.

Madden will serve as editorial director, working with Olivia Monjo, editor-in-chief of Hachette’s Special Interest Publications division, and Jim Fraguela, vice president, publisher of the group, who will oversee the business side.

“Chris’ clear lifestyle vision and her wonderful accessibility have already been embraced by millions of Americans, and we are confident our magazine will be a success. The title is a powerful and engaging way for Chris to spread her decorating approach which spans various media and merchandise,” said Jack Kliger, president and CEO, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. "We are excited about this magazine, and, once we receive readers’ reactions, we will determine how often the title will be published.”

Added Madden: “I will take my readers on a journey that will encourage them to realize their own personal style and to create living spaces for themselves that are relaxed and stylish havens. My mission is to be engaging and encouraging and to bring to the pages of my magazine my message of turning home into haven — a place of comfort, security and sensory delights — where we find that sense of celebration and joy for ourselves, our friends and families."