New York Times Magazine carries an ace blog called "The 6th Floor" and i just read their inside story about designing their upcoming cover by art director Gail Bichler
A great read for e'body interested in cover design!

Next sundays cover New York Times Mag
Artwork by James Joyce.

Hugo Lindgren: editor
Arem Duplessis: Design Director
Gail Bichler: Art Director
Kathy Ryan: Director of Photography
Deputy Art Director: Caleb Bennett
Designers: Hilary Greenbaum, Sara Cywnar, and Drea Zlanabitnig