We're not sure whether it's the glossy pics, the edgy writing or the just plain HOT homes, but New York Mag's Home Design issue that came out last week is a must read for shelter junkies. It's even worth buying at the newstand, because the pics are so much nicer in print.

Put together by the incomparable Wendy Goodman, NYMag works with the theme, "The Secret City," and sets out to find those hidden gems that make your jaw drop when you come upon them. Our favorites? Henry Clay Frick's old rec room (bowling alley and pool hall) in the basement of the Frick, The cozy, modern townhouse in Greenwich Village by Matthew Baird, the amazing art collection in Adam Lindeman and Amalia Dayan's midtown apartment, and the stunning Peter Halley paintings in the bedroom at Gunter Sach's house, that was designed and built for Halston.

Here's the rundown:

The Secret City: Introduction

Go to House Tour

Hoop Dream: Open a door in this Upper East Side house and you walk into a private basketball court.