How to Decorate

Karen Mooney, our fearless leader and President of Ballard Designs, joins us to celebrate the milestone of Ballard’s 40th Anniversary. We dive into the company history, how Ballard Designs grew into what it is now, and then Karen shares a few of her favorite trends over her 22 years with the brand. Then, we talk about what’s next for Ballard as it enter 2023 and everything beyond. Thank you so much for your support for Ballard Designs: we couldn’t have helped inspire home decorators over the past 40 years without our lovely patrons, community, and listeners like you.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Who is Helen Ballard?
• The 40-year story of Ballard Designs.
• The value add of upholstery and unique other special touches Ballard is proud to give their customers.
• The history of architecture and design and the importance of mixing both high and low.
• Okay for real, how do you sneak an ottoman into a room during a coffee break?
• What really went on in the Ballard backroom?
• What products do we think “what was that?”
• Yes, monogrammed toilet paper is a thing.
• The importance of doing your homework in the design process.
• New Ballard news for 2023 and beyond.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a very special episode this week as we welcome Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason, the brainchild of the husband and wife team behind AphroChic. Their latest release, AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home, is a gorgeous and impactful book that showcases the stories of numerous homes and the in-depth conversations with the residents that celebrate their unique family story. Jeanine and Bryan talk about the inspiration behind the book and how the story of home begins way before we enter the home we’re in now. They talk about the decision to create a design book that is also a history book, and the intention of storytelling in a way that is educational, expansive, and entertaining.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Jeanine and Bryan talk about their journey into Aphrochic and their “why” behind the book.
• The families selected were some designers, but also teachers, chef, writers, and just people with aesthetic and authentic taste.
• Aphrochic shows that design is so much more than just choosing color and a palette. It’s about creating a feeling and sharing your story.
• The feeling of safety, freedom, and visibility is extremely important in many Black family homes.
• Jeanine and Bryan talk about their own upbringings and how the feeling of a space impacted them to their adult lives.
• Jeanine and Bryan talk about working together to write the book even through health challenges.
• The stories in Aphrochic tell stories of both economic perspectives between Black and white homes and also feature beautiful portraits of resilience and joy.
• What’s a “womb room?”
• A bit about what’s next for Jeanine and Bryan, including their magazine Aphrochic Magazine and a line of products.

Mentioned in This Episode:

AphroChic: Celebrating the Legacy of the Black Family Home

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We welcome the wonderful Suzanne Tucker to the show this week, where she gives us a preview of her third book published last month, Extraordinary Interiors. Suzanne is recognized as one of the country’s leading interior designers, known for her endearing style, attention to detail, and passion for architectural and decorative arts. Suzanne talks with us about many things including the beauty of having a second set of eyes when making interior design decisions, how to put your own stamp on something, and why the bones of a room or space matters first before you start adding the extra things on top of it.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How to put your own stamp on something in a way that gives it your personal touch.
• The beauty of having a trusted friend and pair of eyes when it comes to design.
• Why multi pigmented paint is such a great choice, and how it changes a room hour by hour.
• How bringing in art that you love and feel connected to can tie a room together stylistically.
• Why should we start with the “bones” and the framework before adding the little touches.
• How lighting can completely transform a room and is a key component and the three different levels of lighting.
• Suzanne’s talks about “mouse house” in Santa Barbara and how it gives her a beautiful respite for serenity and peace.
• More about Suzanne’s new book, Extraordinary Interiors and a few of the special projects featured in it.
• How we can make modern contemporary still feel warm and layered.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Suzanne Tucker: IG | Website

Extraordinary Interiors

Decorating Dilemma:

Thank you for writing, and between the slow pitch ceiling, and angled fireplaces, what a beautiful space you have. We all agree that it already has fantastic bones, so brava for that. Suzanne says that she would not worry too much about the door, and you can leave it as is instead of painting it a particularly strong color. As far as the little telephone table, the cute little bench with the navy upholstery, we suggest putting something over it. Possibly a mirror, but if you go that route, be sure to note what exactly it is you are reflecting. If it’s the kitchen, we may want to opt for something else.

If you aren’t feeling the chandelier, don’t worry about tossing it! Remember, someone’s trash is someone else's treasure.

We love the black wall, and you can paint it black or just change it to a black outlet so it disappears. In that outlet, you can plug in a pair of lamps.

Don't underestimate the power of having a piece of art in the kitchen. That's kind of fun. But, Suzanne also thinks the open shelves would be good there.

Thanks so much, and let us know how it goes!  

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a fun trials and triumphs episode this week! We cover everything from fancy diffusers from Target to fill your home with lovely scents, and how pressure washing a white home can make a world of a difference. Liz finally tells the “tub story”, and we discuss how a new house doesn’t mean it comes without issues and putting some TLC into it. At the end, everyone shares their holiday plans and we dream about shopping in Paris.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Diffusers are great for old homes with a funky smell, or new homes with older dogs that also have a funky smell.
• Some tips for hosting a book club at your home.
• More on woven blinds and how they can level up a room.
• Some of the first steps
• What do you do with your kids when you’re having people over?
• Wait, do our kids actually think we’re cool?
• As Liz heads to Paris, we share some of our favorite places to shop there.

Mentioned in This Episode:

E. Dehillerin

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we welcome New York based prop stylist Robin Zachary. After working as the Creative Director for Bridal Guide Magazine, Robin launched her prop styling career and has since founded The Prop Styling Experience: a popular prop styling workshop. Robin talks with us about how to start styling with the things you already have and love, advice for those looking to get into the field, and more about her book, Styling Beyond Instagram: Take Your Prop Styling Skills From the Square to the Street. 

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What exactly does a prop stylist do?
• What are some of the biggest misconceptions about prop styling?
• Advice for those looking to get into prop styling.
• What led Robin to develop both her workshop and book?
• How Instagram and Pinterest have changed the world of photography.
• Robin’s great advice on how you can make things look beautiful on a daily basis.
• How to find the perfect pillow cover for your sofa.
• Some of the inspiration behind Styling Beyond Instagram.
• A plug for Ballard - you can order any of our 350 fabrics and a pillow cover, and we will make it for you!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Robin Zachary

@robinzachary

Styling Beyond Instagram

Decorating Dilemma:

First, you have an incredible start, and your photos already look like an “after” with all the great textures. Now let’s get into it. You absolutely can find some throw pillows that unite all the colors together, and something in the family of colors should be fine, maybe even some stripes to contrast from the patterns already in the space. The pillows on the brown leather chairs are a little overpowering in size for that really unique shape, so you may want to downsize in a roll pillow that is navy. to quiet down the busy chairs.

Take a page from Robin’s book to find something with a contrasting texture to your sofa, and maybe try to find a real nubby linen or something kind of woven. The great thing about pillow covers is that it's easy to replace them and try something new. So order some to bring them home, you can send them back if they don't work.

It would be great to decorate the mantel for the holidays, with branches, bows, candles, and other winter tidings that you can transition out after the Christmas season.

We would have items that are ready to pick up and move as you need the table but keep the table decorated, and we would have a low floral arrangement or plant with a wide bowl on the table.

You are a great stylist, and thank you for taking the time to write in!  

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve got a great duo here this week on How to Decorate: Rachel Barrett, Editor in Chief of Country Living and acclaimed singer songwriter, serial house renovator and contributing Country Living writer Holly Williams. In the November issue of Country Living, we get to see the beautiful country house they renovated using some Ballard products. We hear the story of how they came to collaborate and the little details that turned out to be one big vision. They also talk about working in a tight timeline, along with some behind the scenes moments of a not so glamorous photo shoot. We also talk about fun ideas for ping pong rooms, how bold colors can make a big difference, and the importance of having a touchstone item.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How to create a cohesive vision for a project, especially when working in a tight timeline.
• Maybe you should look on Craigslist for real estate?
• How they incorporated an itch to use hunting lodge decor in their farmhouse.
• The importance of starting with a neutral color.
• Empowerment of happy accidents and being able to roll with things.
• The importance of having a “touchstone” item.
• Using brass lamps and skirted tables to create contrast.
• The importance of window coverings in the house.
• What to do if you have an eyesore in your home.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Rachel Hardage Barrett

Holly Williams

Country Living Magazine

Decorating Dilemma:

Thank you for writing in! First, the fireplace already has contrast against the white wall and then the shelves are pretty high contrast, so, maybe something that's a little bit like richer, darker, and warmer color might help it feel like one unit. Next, a skirted table underneath the TV in some great fabric can be repeated in the same fabric on the windows.

And remember, bold fabric will change the world! It makes everything feel intentional and beautiful, without busting your bank. As far as curtain rods, check out luddite brass ones.

For color, Oakmoss by Sherwin Williams could work, or a Jasper or Moss Point Green.  

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week features Veronica Solomon, Houston interior designer and CEO and Creative Director of Casa Vilora Interiors. Veronica is also a mentor and a professional coach to other interior designers looking to build their businesses in the design community. She talks about the development of her bold style, her love of the eclectic and layered looks, her inspiration for taking more risks, and how not to be afraid of a dark wall. 

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What does it mean to be eclectic? 
• Are there certain rooms where Veronica feels like it makes sense to be a little more bold? 
• When is the right time to use draperies?
• Veronica’s advice on taking more risks in a way that is calculated and intentional.
• Low commitment but big splash items that can lend themselves to be a little more bold such as art and light fixtures. 
• How to know when it’s time to just call a designer? 
• Thinking about putting your favorite color everywhere on the wall? Veronica shares why you may want to think again, and how to weave it in using a more methodical way. 
• How to spice up a neutral space. 
• Plants are a great way to add texture to a space. 
• Veronica’s love of a BIG light fixture. 

Mentioned in This Episode:

Veronica Solomon

@Casa Vilora 

Decorating Dilemma: 

First off, we love that you are bold and Veronica is certainly the right guest to answer this! She thinks you should keep it in red, match whatever trim color in the space, and do it in satin instead of high gloss for a nice sheen without too much shine. A grayer red versus an orange-red is what you want. Let us know how it turns out, we can’t wait to see! 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are so excited to have former host Karen Mooney back on the show! On this special holiday episode, Karen gives us an update on her life since becoming President of Ballard Designs, walks us through her new beach house design, shares her favorite holiday Ballard products, and joins Caroline, Taryn, and Liz in giving tips for entertaining, holiday decorating, gift ideas, and more. Also, be sure to check out Ballard Design's Black Friday Deals while they last!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Karen gives us an update of what she’s been up to since becoming President of Ballard.
• Karen surprises us, and herself, with how colorful she has decorated her beach house.
• How the podcast has helped Karen expand and embolden her design style.
• We each offer our best hosting tips.
• Thanksgiving dinner in the day or the evening?
• Karen gives us her secret recipe for gravy.
• How to set the table so it breaks the ice for guests.
• What are the main parts of the house we decorate for the holidays?
• How to accent faux decorations with “real” natural elements.
• Does holiday decor need to match your existing decor or have a theme?
• We gush over a few of our holiday items available.
• Which Ballard products make great gifts?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Holiday & Seasonal Decorations

Andros Linen Panel

Café Dinnerware Collection

Holiday Dinnerware Collection

Drinkware

Flatware

Ballroom Folding Chairs

Marseille Linen Napkins

Tree Garland

Angel Pine Garland

Essential Stocking Holder

Mercury Glass Hurricane

Belissima Flax Linen Bedding

Amelie Bath Towel Collection

Faux Fur Blanket

Petite Acrylic Easel

Personalized Coir Mats

More Personalized Products

Holiday Pillows

Book Assortment

Candles

Angel Bottle Wings

Celebratory Cocktail Napkins

Ornaments

Ep. 117: designer Janie Molster

Tom Scheerer

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We conclude our special series highlighting the FLOWER Magazine Atlanta Showhouse with a recap of our in-person tour! Ballard Designs is proud to be one of the sponsors of the house.

We share our initial thoughts and takeaways and go room by room to marvel at each designer’s work. Our biggest takeaway? The house is so awe-inspiring that we have to go again! And if you’re local, we highly recommend a visit.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• We start with the breathtaking entryway which includes textures, patterns, and a plethora of wallpaper.
• We dig into the wallpaper, the details, and the cohesiveness of the house.
• We are hoarse from talking so much at the showhouse; everyone was so inspiring and welcoming!
• The house had everything you could imagine; including LIVE birds!
• Did we mention there was pink marble?
• We attempt to pick our favorite room. Is it even possible?
• Which room had hand-painted tiger wallpaper?
• Each space, even the small ones, was designed as its own room. A reminder to maximize every space.
• Our only complaint was the space-age toilets the builder put in.
• Why every single space was a wow moment; you must go in person if you can!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Visit the FLOWER Magazine Atlanta Showhouse to preview each designer’s space.

Buy tickets to the Showhouse HERE!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are back with our special series highlighting the FLOWER magazine showhouse here in Atlanta. This episode features the celebrated Dallas-based interior designer, Cathy Kincaid. Known for her use of color and her exquisite eye for antiques, Cathy talks to us about how no detail is too small, her love of cozy bedrooms, and her tips for creating elegant yet livable designs inside your home. Cathy talks more about different ways to personalize your bedroom including getting clear on how you like your lighting, bed dressings, textiles, and furniture set up.

If you’d like to visit the house in person you can purchase tickets here, and also follow along with the podcast series whether you can see it in person or not!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Cathy loves smaller bedrooms and finds them to be super cozy.
• What was Cathy’s inspiration behind the color choice in the bedroom, other than it being the woman's domain?
• The influence of the baby Taj on the bedroom design.
• Cathy dives more into her choice of fabric and drapery in the bedroom.
• What are some ways that we can create bedrooms that feel elegant, timeless, and livable?
• How we can bring more comfort to ourselves in the bedroom, and also make it family-friendly for other partners, children, and of course…our pets.
• Some ideas if you are like Cathy and want a desk somewhere in your bedroom.
• Beautiful lighting ideas and how to make your nightstand more functional.
• Cathy gives some great bed sheet recommendations and is not one to spend her morning stacking a million pillows.
• What are some classic colors for a bedroom that stand the test of time?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Cathy Kincaid

The Well Adorned Home: Making Luxury Livable

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are back with our special series highlighting the FLOWER magazine showhouse here in Atlanta, and the fun continues with acclaimed designer Barry Dixon. His work can be found all over the world, and on the pages of your favorite magazines like House Beautiful, Traditional Home and of course, Flower magazine. Barry talks about designing for all five senses, telling the story of a space from beginning to end, and his choice of textiles, colors, and books in the beautifully inspiring library. Ballard Designs is proud to be one of the sponsors of the house, and we are so excited to share all the gorgeous spaces with you.

If you’d like to visit the house in person you can purchase tickets here, and also follow along with the podcast series whether you can see it in person or not!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Barry talks about the foundation of the library, and the little bit of Hollywood Regency appeal to the house.
• The views of the exterior are such an important part of the beauty of any interior.
• Some masculine ways to bring in florals.
• Barry talks about his curation of the books in the library and the intention behind the visual cues on the shelves.
• What advice would Barry give to people who are trying to blend styles or work with someone who doesn’t have their same opinion on design?
• A beautiful truth: you're never alone in a room that speaks to you.
• How do you balance the personalities in your home (aka ones that love taxidermy and action figures)?
• How design is like writing a story, and it’s important to tell the story from beginning to end.
• Barry’s love of the extreme in design in every way, including location, architecture, and style.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Barry Dixon

Barry Dixon’s Books

Decorating Dilemma:

Thank you for writing in! First, Barry has some great thoughts and advice for you. The buffet always traditionally belonged in a dining room, so you can keep that and you can also keep the chairs you have. Maybe you want to paint those Hepa white chairs a really pretty French Gray from Farrow & Ball so they look fresh. Mix that with the green buffet, and it leaves your table to be brown, with some beautiful yellows and grays to add a sorbet of color. Let’s buy a really beautiful paper with a pattern that goes with the Tudor or Arts and Crafts style - Barry has some good suggestions for ones from the 1800s. The Benjamin Moore color can be brought in as the trim color for the windows, baseboards, and door casings.

Since you are just investing in the paper, maybe you can even do a coordinating pattern for your seat cushions on those chairs. This ties everything together in one grand statement.

Please send us after photos so we can see your final choices! 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode continues our special series highlighting the FLOWER magazine showhouse here in Atlanta. Ballard Designs is proud to be one of the sponsors of the house, and we are so excited to share all the gorgeous spaces with you. Each day this week we will interview a different designer from the showhouse to talk about the room they designed, their inspiration, trends throughout the space, and much more. This episode features Julie Dodson, of Dodson Interiors. For 20 years, she has brought chic French inspired spaces to her Houston clientele. Her love of antiques and ability to add a fresh spin on traditional elements is evident in her polished spaces that she creates her clients. Julie talks about the inspiration for the showroom, her choice of the color palette, and how we can find the balance between the old and the new with antiques.

If you’d like to visit the house in person you can purchase tickets here, and also follow along with the podcast series whether you can see it in person or not!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What do you look for in a wallpaper especially in a space that small?
• Why it’s important to keep scale in mind when picking a wallpaper.
• Can one have too many wallpapers in a home?
• Does Julie feel like brass is going to wane in popularity as far as finishes go?
• Are wallpapers in bathrooms a good idea?
• Julie talks about the camaraderie in the house, and how the design community comes together and is excited to see what everyone is up to.
• Why Julie loves antiques and the character that comes with hard to find finishes.
• Julie provides some great resources for getting great antiques all year long, including the Round Top Antiques Fair.
• How does Julie start helping her clients create their art collections vs. ones that have been collecting for years?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Dodson Interiors

@dodsoninteriors

The Original Round Top Antiques Fair

Decorating Dilema:

Julie would do a custom rug that covers the entire room, and cuts out the hearth of the fireplace. A nice wool flat leaf would allow you to open and close the door, and it would make the room feel like one big comfy space, as opposed to multiple smaller rugs. Whatever you can do to bring it a little bit closer to the door would be nice. This brings up a great tip: if you're layering rugs on top, maybe go a little closer to the wall.

As for the windows, Julie feels like adding trim is not a good investment, and you won’t even notice if you are dressing them nicely.

Julie would keep the marble surround that you have, but add an old beam or boxed shelf that goes the length of the fireplace. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are continuing our special series highlighting the FLOWER magazine showhouse here in Atlanta. Ballard Designs is proud to be one of the sponsors of the house, and we are so excited to share all the gorgeous spaces with you. Each day this week we will interview a different designer from the showhouse to talk about the room they designed, their inspiration, trends throughout the space, and much more. Our guest today, Melanie Milner, discusses her work on the scullery in the showhouse. Melanie is an Atlanta-based designer with The Design Atelier known for her timeless style and use of colors. Her work has been featured in Atlanta Homes & Lifestyle, LUXE, and more.

If you’d like to visit the house in person you can purchase tickets here, and also follow along with the podcast series whether you can see it in person or not!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What is a scullery and why did it speak to Melanie?
• Why Melanie worked alongside the dining room team of the showhouse to coordinate designs.
• Melanie chose plaster finishes for the scullery for a durable, unique, and ethereal look.
• All of the lighting in the scullery is recessed to have a functional and practical workspace.
• What appliances go into a scullery?
• Why the small details can be the star of the show; especially in a kitchen space.
• How was designing this space different from designing other clients’ kitchens?
• What are some new things Melanie is seeing in kitchens?
• What goes in the cabinets of a scullery?
• Why do Taryn and Melanie like bridge faucets?
• What other trends is Melanie seeing that she’s excited about?
• Why organization can be such an important, albeit luxury, design element.
• Indoor/outdoor rugs are a great way to soften a space in a kitchen while still being easy to clean.

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Nancy,

There are a lot of really cool switch plates out there if you’re willing to spend the money. A metal backplate would be a good place to start or you can find a colored one. I wouldn’t paint it since it doesn’t generally last. If you were to get wallpaper, you can have the installer cover that as well for an easy solution. Depending on how you design the bar, it could be a good idea to integrate the metal from the plate with hardware and accessories. I would say it depends on whether you want to be more subtle and integrate the switch plates or make a bold decision.

We appreciate your level of detail, Nancy! Let us know what you decide. And thank you for listening to all of our episodes; twice!

Mentioned in This Episode:

The Design Atelier

The Design Atelier on Instagram

Domingue Finishes - Plaster

Forbes and Lomax - Switchplates

Lutron - Switches

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode kicks off a special series we’re doing highlighting the FLOWER magazine showhouse here in Atlanta. Ballard Designs is proud to be one of the sponsors of the house, and we are so excited to share all the gorgeous spaces with you. Each day this week we will interview a different designer from the showhouse to talk about the room they designed, their inspiration, trends throughout the space, and much more. Our first designer, Nellie Jane Howard Ossi of Mrs. Howard Design Firm walks us through her powder room design for the house. She’s a lead designer, a domestic expert, and has a tabletop line coming out next year with Dillards.

If you’d like to visit the house in person you can purchase tickets here, and also follow along with the podcast series whether you can see it in person or not!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How did Nellie get the chance to work on the showhouse?
• What was Nellie’s inspiration for how to begin the powder room design and what is the theme?
• How do you account for no natural light when choosing design elements?
• Why did Nellie choose blue trim for the powder room?
• Nellie shares last-minute dilemmas while working on showhouses.
• What are the most common delays still happening in design, decorating, and building?
• What are some must DOs when designing a powder room?
• Why the powder room is a great place to do something bold–like wallpaper on the ceiling!
• Lighting is one of the most important elements of a powder room. Nellie’s tips for getting it right.
• What are some must DON’T’s when designing a powder room?
• How antiquing has influenced Nellie’s design (and her personal life!)
• All about growing up in a design family and how it influenced Nellie’s style.
• Why accessorizing is expensive but can’t be overlooked. It’s what finishes a room.
• Will Nellie continue to do showhouses?
• How kids have impacted Nellie’s design; for better or worse!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Nellie Howard Ossi on Instagram

Nellie Howard Ossi

Mrs. Howard

Andrew Howard Interior Design

Visual Comfort Lighting

Pioneer Linens

Made Goods

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's lovely guest is English designer Emma Sims-Hilditch. Emma got her start designing sets for Ridley Scott before opening her own firm, Sims Hilditch, in 2009. Her work has been featured in Vogue, House & Garden, The Telegraph, and many other publications. We discuss Emma’s new book The Evolution of Home: English Interiors for a New Era and her tips for decorating the English way.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What has been the evolution of Emma’s design style through childhood, travels, and beyond?
• How does Emma find balance between rustic and clean, modern styles?
• Why does Emma paint her house twice a year?
• Why light plays such an important role in color and hue choices.
• Why is storage in the bedroom priority #1 for Emma?
• Emma encourages people not to always get hung up on symmetry and matching; nature is the perfect example of this.
• The case for brown furniture!
• What Emma likes to consider for home office spaces.
• How did working in set design influence Emma’s design style?
• What does Emma recommend for adding European design elements into a space?
• What are ways to add charm to your room even after decorating?
• Overstuffed upholstery and pillows are English staples that are fun to play with.
• What does Emma consider the ideal kitchen layout?

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Jackie,

This is a lovely kitchen with fantastic bones and storage. I personally wouldn’t change the white cabinets because I think it’s much easier to paint a wall. If you don’t like it, it’s also much easier to repaint. I would personally do a soft gray like Mizzle by Farrow & Ball. You could also go darker like a blue-gray. A white kitchen is a great starting point and I love the black contrast. I notice the countertops are polished vs. honed; I would recommend getting a quote to see how much it is to get them honed. It’s an easy process that gives a much softer edge and makes a huge difference. I would also recommend some pendant lights over the bar if it’s not too difficult to add them now. You could use fabric-colored shades or even play with patterns. If it’s practical, upholstered bar stools are another fun way to bring color in. I would also even look at the curtain; the soft white curtain could be swapped for something with more texture or pattern that’s more structured and less floaty. I would base it on what you choose for the pendant and barstools. You could also try a coordinating Roman shade above the window as well; whether it’s decorative or functional it will often up that space. I would not wallpaper the backsplash as cooking can be damaging to wallpaper. If you really want to wallpaper somewhere or even if the room carries on around the corner, you could paper one wall. I would pick out a pattern that’s complimentary to the paint color you choose from the kitchen. We all think drawing more attention to the island will be your best bet. With that in mind, you could also paint the island 2 shades darker than whatever you choose for the wall. We don’t think the dog crate is permanent, but if you want you could put a rug under it for now!

The kitchen looks wonderful as is and just needs some finishing touches–you’re almost there! Good luck and please send us some pictures!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sims Hilditch

Sims Hilditch on Instagram

Emma Sims-Hilditch on Instagram

The Evolution of Home: English Interiors for a New Era

Margot 2-Light Pendant

Hector Finch

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We have a major treat for you today, in the form of a great conversation with the dean of American design, celebrated interior designer Stephen Sills. You’ve seen Stephen’s work in your favorite design magazines including Architectural Digest, Town and Country, Elle Decor, and many more. Stephen walks us through his new book, a Vision for Design, and a few of the recent projects featured in the book, including stunning homes in Florida, New York City, and his own Connecticut home.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Considerations when choosing a wallpaper.
• How dining rooms are becoming less formal and more usable.
• How to use boards to see the whole of the house, and work with layout and scale.
• What should you consider when choosing a shape and size for a sofa?
• What has changed in Stephen’s Connecticut home over the 30 years he has lived there.
• In Stephen’s work, how does he approach both beauty and functionality of the space?
• What’s next for Stephen now that the book is out?
• How Stephen curated certain moods and atmospheres in the different homes featured in a Vision for Design.
• How you can bring some of Stephen’s expert eye into your design decisions.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Stephen Sills

A Vision for Design

Hello, and thank you for writing! First, when hanging art, it’s all about your choice and intuition. We think you should make a choice between a height that works for you, and a height that the guests can enjoy. Stephen agrees that it’s always nice to look up at art instead of just looking straight at it. The bigger the painting, the higher you can hang it. The smaller the painting, the lower it could be. Hope this helps!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to another Trials & Triumphs episode! Last time Caroline shared with us that lightning struck her house and did some damage. She took the opportunity to make some additional upgrades while doing those repairs. The Schwartz House is nearly finished and Taryn is very happy with her wallpaper choices; but not so happy with the broken appliances. Liz has no trials OR triumphs to report, but this episode got her thinking about what she wants to do next in her house.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Turning lemons into lemonade, Caroline took the opportunity to add a medicine cabinet after a lightning strike destroyed part of her house.
• Caroline’s medicine cabinet addition led her to add some other design elements to both her primary bathroom and powder room.
• Caroline took advantage of the Ballard clearance sale and found a life-changing new way to dry clothes.
• The good news is the last big appliances arrived in The Schwartz House, bad news is they aren’t working.
• The pool is just about ready in The Schwartz House.
• Taryn is extremely happy about the wallpaper that has gone up; it all came together!
• Why is Taryn waiting on the wallpaper for the dining room?
• We are all frustrated with the way wallpaper is sold; why can’t there be a standard?!
• Caroline’s kids are happy because her cooktop has been replaced and she can make pasta again.
• Liz feels inspired to look at her laundry room and consider some wallpaper in other parts of her home.
• Listeners – we appreciate all of your feedback, questions, and dilemmas! Now send us your wallpaper adventures and photos so we can take a peek!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Corday Accordion Drying Rack

Beadboard Drying Rack

Mural Wallpaper

The Schwartz House

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are deep diving into rugs. They are a foundational part of any space and very functional, but can be quite challenging. Not only are rugs expensive, but they are high traffic and take up a lot of space. So to discuss such an important and high commitment design element, we brought in our rug expert and 23 year veteran here at Ballard Designs–Carmen Barbee. Carmen breaks down the different types of rugs, how to care for them, her favorite tips and tricks, and so much more.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What are the common rug materials?
• Is there a rulebook for where rugs should be throughout the house?
• Why is natural fiber not kid or pet friendly?
• What role does synthetic fibers play in rug making?
• When it comes to hand knots, the smaller the hand knot the more expensive it is.
• How to care for wool rugs.
• What is an oushak rug?
• What is a flat woven rug?
• What is a kilim rug? 
• Every rug needs a rug pad. What does it do?
• The difference between hand tufted and hand hooked rugs.
• Are machine made rugs still high quality?
• The name of the game is easy care; and why many people are using performance rugs indoors now.
• Tips for rug sizing and placement.
• How to use rugs in an open floorplan to define a space and work together.
• The rule of thumb is–start with the rug. This is why considering the color palette is so important.
• Carmen’s thoughts on solid vs. patterned rugs.
• How to use fashion rugs to rotate designs or change with the seasons.
• What is the longevity/lifespan of different types of rugs?
• Tips & tricks for treating stains on rugs.
• Rugs are always going to lean more classic than trendy, but what are some of the upcoming trends?

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Ballard’s Rug Size Guide
• Polypropylene Rugs
• Wool Rugs
• Performance Rugs
• St. Tropez Indoor/Outdoor Rug
• Rug Pads

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Toronto-based interior designer Anne Hepfer joins the podcast to talk about her new book, Mood, plus why her client work is led by emotion. Anne shares her design work is anchored in rooms that make her clients' feel and how we can all bring more feeling into our spaces.

On the show you'll hear:

• The evolution of Anne's new book, Mood
• Her path to writing her book on her own before shopping it to a publisher
• The format and concept of the book, and all of the heart she poured into the book
• Why it's important to uncover your emotional triggers and use them in your decorating
• Color as a way to evoke emotion in a room, but how to bring emotion into a neutral room too
• Pattern and why it's such an inspiration to Anne's work
• Why it's important to consider texture when choosing upholstery items
• Anne shares the inspiration behind her lake house, which has a totally different feel than her house in the city
• Anne's passion for travel and how it refills her design cup
• Why asking yourself the 'why' questions are so important to the design process, whether you're working with a designer or decorating for yourself
• Why you should incorporate nostalgia into your spaces
• The color and spine of her new book

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Anne Hepfer
• Anne's new book, Mood
• Anne's Instagram

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are so thrilled to welcome award-winning design duo Jamie Drake and Caleb Anderson of the design firm Drake/Anderson. Their iconic work has been featured in several issues of Shelter, on the AD100 List, ELLE DECOR’s A-List, and they’ve also received the highest awards and accolades in the industry. They are known for luxurious and sophisticated residential and commercial spaces that are fearless and bold. Their new book Bold: The Interiors of Drake/Anderson is available for pre-order now. We discuss that book and their best tips for how to design fearlessly.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How did they get started on the book and chose their projects?
• The common thread throughout their book is that the contemporary work is informed by history and their traditional work also includes modern elements.
• What is the thought process while blending the bold elements?
• Where does the fearlessness come from?
• How can others become more fearless?
• Do they tend to influence their clients to be bolder or are bold clients drawn to Drake/Anderson?
• How do you balance the room’s strength?
• To achieve boldness, it’s important to be intentional with your choices.
• With several statement pieces, how can you find balance?
• Creating a visual with a board, PowerPoint, etc., can help tremendously in the planning process.
• Often the element of surprise is what can make a space the most interesting.
• What are Jamie and Caleb’s favorite projects from the book and why?
• Why can unexpected colors work so well if used right?
• More about the historic preservation project in London.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Pre-order BOLD: The Interiors of Drake/Anderson
• Drake/Anderson Website
• Drake/Anderson on Instagram

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are so excited to have Ballard’s in-house bedding & bath expert Amy Jourdan on the podcast. Amy knows everything about thread counts, materials, mixing and matching, and more. She designs all of the gorgeous beds in our catalog, and she knows what makes the perfect bed.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How to design a bed with not just look but function in mind.
• What are some of the most popular bedding materials for sheets and how do they differ?
• What are popular materials for duvets, coverlets, and quilts?
• Tips for layering the bed from basics to catalog-worthy.
• What is the bell of the bed?
• What to think about when mixing materials on a bed.
• All about how to arrange pillows depending on bed size and design goal.
• Our love of the lumbar.
• A tip for how to find the right orientation of the duvet cover.
• What are we doing with box springs?
• The trend now is a shift from headboards to platform beds.
• What is the best way to style kid’s beds?
• What are the different duvet fillings?
• Is a signature scent necessary for bedding?
• How often should bedding be washed?
• Bed-making tips including some hot pillow insert tips.
• A double-stuff duvet trick.
• How to change bedding with the seasons.
• Tips for drying sheets and having fewer wrinkles
• Why we (or our spouses) like to make our beds every day.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Percale Bedding
• Sateen Bedding
• Linen Bedding
• Quilts & Coverlets
• Duvet Covers & Pillow Shams
• Linen Lumbar Pillow
• Velvet Quilt
• Heidi Callier
• Katie Ridder

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Perhaps the biggest of triumphs after two years of trials; Taryn finally moved into her new house! Plus, Liz and Caroline catch us up with all the Trials & Triumphs of their homes from bookcases to lightning, and more.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Liz finished her bedroom wallpaper project, but it uncovered a new “problem”.
• The hunter green lining; Liz found a great paint color and is styling her bookcase.
• Caroline’s house was struck by lightning…really!
• Since Caroline now has to fix her living room, she’s going to repaint the walls and possibly the ceiling.
• A BIG triumph for Taryn; they are in the house! But there are still workers in the house.
• Taryn is making strides in her outdoor space.
• Taryn installed, and then uninstalled, and then reinstalled some lighting (and outlets).
• A lesson to be learned; have the rugs cleaned BEFORE you move all of your furniture around.
• The fun is in the details but so is the devil.
• Taryn updates us on the service and selection available from Blinds.com.
• Now it’s time to decorate The Schwartz House…so stay tuned!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• The Schwartz House
• Society Social/Wall Pops Wallpaper Collection
• Blinds.com

Find all of the show notes on our blog, howtodecorate.com/podcast

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are joined by designer David Jimenez, owner and founder of David Jimenez Studio. David is a creative force who got his start working at household names like Banana Republic, Pottery Barn, and Restoration Hardware. Six years ago he left his corporate job to move to Paris and start his design business, and he now designs spaces all over the world for his clients in that enigmatic Parisian style. His style is effortless, dripping in antiques, but also livable and fresh. This fall he is publishing his first book Parisian by Design: Interiors by David Jimenez.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• We gush over David’s new book Parisian by Design and discuss how it came together.
• David’s work history started by folding clothes in the Gap and eventually, it led him to Paris.
• A staple in Parisian design is using and reusing antiques and heirloom pieces.
• One of David’s tips for layering a room is setting a mood and finding joy within the room during the process.
• Gallery walls are a big component to Parisian design and one David has adopted; he likes to lay pieces out on the ground first before hanging.
• David doesn’t limit himself by watching all wood or metal tones; it’s okay to mix and match.
• Scale is very important to anchor or pull focus in a room.
• David uses room dividers and screens not only for privacy but also to add a layer of color or texture.
• Black and white stripes are very classic Parisian and curtains are a good way to add them to a space.
• David loves to use black in a room for punctuation but especially for a lampshade.
• David discusses some of his favorite French designers and how they have influenced him.
• The second half of David’s book gives an insider’s guide to navigating the Parisian streets.
• Certain colors are specific to Paris and hold cultural and historical significance.
• David’s intention with his work is to use his expertise as a catalyst to design a space that reflects you.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Pre-Order Parisian by Design
• David Jimenez Studio on Instagram
• David Jimenez Studio
• Madeleine Castaing
• Henri Samuel
• The Schwartz House

Find all of the show notes on our blog, howtodecorate.com/podcast

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are joined today by Houston-based designer Amanda Holliday. Amanda opened her firm, Amanda Brooke Interiors, in 2019 after working commercial and residential design for many years. Her approach is a balance of contemporary and vintage, architectural and organic, and she is an expert in experiential storytelling through your space. Amanda shares with us all of her tips, tricks, and creative ways to change your aesthetic.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Where can you start when you are getting sick of your home?
• What are your options for changing your aesthetic if you can’t change things structurally?
• What swaps make the biggest impact in changing a room?
• How plaster can be used to transform a space.
• Why Amanda likes to break the rules when it comes to artwork and accessories.
• How does Amanda like to style bookcases?
• Some of Amanda’s tips to revitalize and repurpose furniture.
• How to use accent lighting to completely revamp a room.
• The many nuances of and versatility of lampshades.
• Options for changing out fabrics.
• Amanda’s instant tips if your room is feeling too dark and heavy.
• What if a room is not feeling layered enough?
• How to freshen up non-modern and antique pieces.
• How to scale a room up.
• Why Amanda challenges everyone to create their OWN artwork for their space.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Amanda Brooke Interiors
• Amanda Brooke Interiors on Instagram
• Amanda Brooke Interiors on Facebook
• Amanda Brooke Interiors on Pinterest
• Ep. 43: with designer Rachel Cannon
• Petite Acrylic Easel
• Kalklitir
• Urban Grace Interiors on Instagram
• The Schwartz House

Find all of the show notes on our blog, howtodecorate.com/podcast

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we welcome award-winning designer Lorraine Enwright. Lorraine was the lead designer of the 2021 Serenbe Showhouse, and she also recently won Bath of the Year from Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles. We chat with Lorraine about what sets a room apart to achieve a designer look. We discuss the main differences in using a designer vs. going at it alone, why focal points are so important, and why Lorraine says the last 5% is the most important part of the room design.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What are the main differences between those rooms done by a designer vs. a homeowner?
• What resources does a designer have at their disposal?
• Where do you begin the discovery process for a client that doesn’t know what they want?
• How can someone understand scale and spatial relationships?
• Why an emotional and instinctual connection to a style is important to pay attention to.
• The details and last layers in the space are what really complete a room.
• Where do people often go wrong with their details without using a designer?
• Why odd numbers and asymmetry work best in design.
• How often should you rotate or repurpose pieces, if at all?
• Are there any times when you can ignore scale?
• Every room has to have its focal point(s).
• If you want to be bold or add drama, how do you know where to do it?
• How to make an oversized room feel cozy.
• How to work with the windows and lighting your space has.

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi “T. Schwartz”,

Normally I would suggest Roman shades, but with kids, you might want to think about roller shades. You can use really any fabric you like to customize, so they work really well and look great. You could also consider indoor shutters. If you’re wanting a uniform look from the outside of the house, both shutters or roller shades are a great choice. If you really want to do Roman shades, I would recommend having the backs of them look similar from the outside. I love woven shades for that reason. If you don’t want to worry about the chords from Roman shades you could always motorize them; especially if you’re using an installer.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Intuitive Dwellings by Enwright Designs
• Intuitive Dwellings on Instagram
• Serenbe Showhouse
• Bath of the Year
• The Schwartz House

Find all of the show notes on our blog, howtodecorate.com/podcast

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dallas-based interior designer Elle Cole joins the show this week to walk us through how to design the perfect entertaining environment. Now that we are reopening our homes up to people and hosting again, Elle’s tips can get you back to feeling confident hosting events from a casual friend gathering to a larger holiday feast. Elle sheds some light on how to create the right vibe using the five senses, tips for creating an easy space to access your entertaining goodies, and her recommendation on creating a welcoming atmosphere from the minute your guests walk in up until it’s time to go home.  She gives her expert advice on the staple furniture pieces a dining room needs including a table of course, along with chairs, artwork, and décor.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Be clear on who and what you are entertaining for. Asking more questions about what you are looking to get out of entertaining each specific event is key.
• Why starting with color and the five senses can help create a welcoming atmosphere.
• How to decorate beautifully but still give your guests breathing room and space to enjoy themselves.
• The ideal size of a dining room table to host people comfortably.
• Upholstery can add a bit of your personality to the space.
• How dimension and scale are also important to getting your environment feeling great.
• Some ideas for colors that make your guests feel calm and welcomed.
• Elle walks us through her table setting that she can bring together in 20 minutes or less.
• What Elle means by the “power of one”.
• Yes, you can use plastic dinnerware and paper napkins for outdoor entertaining and still have it look beautiful.
• It’s important for the host to set the tone for being calm and setting good energy.
• Logistics of the night including when to serve the appetizers, what to serve, and how long we should prepare our guests to be there.
• You may not have 15 sets of dishes like Elle, but have at least 5 dish sets each with a different theme.
• Ideas for gifts when you are invited to a dinner party and how a handwritten note is an artful and kind touch.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Elle Cole Interiors
• Elle Cole Interiors on Instagram

Find all of the show notes on our blog, howtodecorate.com/podcast

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are back with this month’s trials and triumphs. Last time, Taryn was ready to move into The Schwartz House, but some new trials are holding up their move-in date. Liz gives us an update – the good and the bad – on her meeting with the architect. Plus, Caroline shares all of the tips she learned from TikTok on how to make the perfect bed!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Taryn is still not living in her house; what’s the hold-up?
• So what IS ready in The Schwartz House?
• Tips on different types of blinds.
• How is Taryn feeling about her paint colors?
• Liz met with the architect for her kitchen. What are they planning for the stove?
• In coming up with a plan for remodeling her bathroom, Liz found out nothing is up to code.
• Caroline’s tips for making the perfect bed. Thank you, TikTok!
• Speaking of bed-making, how does everyone do theirs?
• Please email us if you have any tips for getting wrinkles out of duvet covers!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• The Schwartz House
• Blinds.com
• Blindster
• June Kantha Quilt
• Ballard Linen Duvet Cover

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are so excited to be joined today by Des Moines based art advisor and gallery owner Liz Lidgett. Liz works with clients in more than 45 states and 7 countries. She has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens, Business Insider, and Forbes. Part of what makes Liz’s business so successful is her accessible approach to art. For Liz, art is for everyone. We talk about all the ins and outs of how to feel good about your art investment, how to release the fear and intimidation around art galleries, and much more!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How being based in the Midwest impacts Liz’s view on art as well as her business.
• Liz’s philosophy that “art is for everyone” is intricate to her design.
• Art and art galleries are for everyone; no one should ever feel like they don’t belong.
• How do you buy art if you don’t know anything about it?
• Why it’s important to know more about the artists behind their work.
• What to do when your taste varies greatly from your partner’s.
• How does Liz suggest buying art online or sight unseen?
• Liz tells us more about price levels and how they are determined.
• Why Liz loves commissioned pieces.
• All about framing; when to frame, when it’s included, what to choose, etc.
• Tips on how and where to hang art.
• When should you light artwork?
• What are Liz’s tips for artists to get their work in a gallery?

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design
• Liz Lidgett Gallery on Instagram
• Liz Lidgett on Instagram

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We had such positive feedback on our last episode with landscape architect Brantley Snipes, that we decided we had to have her back for part 2! Brantley is a Mississippi-based landscape architect as well as the owner, lead designer, and project manager for Brantley Snipes Landscape Design. Among many accolades, Brantley was named to the Greenwood Commonwealth’s Top 30 under 40. The last time we had Brantley on the show, we talked a lot about plants and softscaping. Today we “dive” into pools and other hardscaping elements.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What to consider when deciding to build a patio.
• What are the pros and cons of concrete and when is it best to use it?
• What other hard materials should be considered and when?
• When should you consider using loose stone?
• How to determine the size, depth, shape, etc. of a pool.
• What to consider for the surrounding area of a pool; especially when kids are using it.
• All about pool tiles…and why are they so limited?!
• Considering liner vs. gunite pool surfaces.
• Does Brantley recommend a pool cover, fence, or both?
• What is a swim shelf?! And other popular pool accessories.
• It’s important to consider pool storage, using the bathroom, and other elements of hosting/entertaining.
• What is a realistic landscaping budget; for both softscaping and hardscaping?

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Ep 248: Creating Outdoor Spaces with Brantley Snipes
• Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design
• Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design on Instagram
• Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design on Facebook
• Osmanthus Market

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The team welcomes Atlanta-based designer Hope Austin to the show today. Hope’s passion for craft started while working in design showrooms such as Brunschwig & Fils and Schumacher. She created her own brand, Hope Austin Interiors, where she works closely with her clients to create homes that are beautiful, comfortable and keep function top of mind. Hope talks about what’s going to make certain pieces last, starting with choosing a sofa that you like with fabric and patterns you will be excited about for years to come. She talks about how to treat the fabrics, some tips for having a nice sofa with kids and pets, and how to best clean when the inevitable wear and tear does happen. Hope also shares what she is putting in clients’ homes regarding counter stools, and how we can shop with realistic expectations.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What really makes a sofa last?
• Hope gives her tips for having a nice sofa that is both kid and pet friendly.
• How do you do a white sofa?
• How you can use high performance fabrics and still have a punch of personality.
• What color fabric has Hope been seeing people stay excited about long term?
• Do practical and nice fabrics have to be expensive?
• What’s the real expectation we should have for big items such as high performance fabric, dining chairs, upholstered beds and barstools?
• Cleaning tips and frequency to keep your sofa nice and clean.
• Why the fabric should be your #1 priority in picking out the sofa.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Hope Austin Interiors
• @hopeaustinint
• Ballard Designs Performance Fabrics
• Sunbrella Performance Fabrics
• InsideOut Performance Fabrics
• Crypton Performance Fabrics

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we’re catching up with this month’s trials and triumphs. Taryn is finally moving into The Schwartz House, which many of you have been following on Instagram. But…is it ready? Plus, we hear about Liz’s new kitchen renovation plans which include many upgrades but most importantly a dishwasher. Finally, Caroline tells us why she really wants to build a fence to complete the vision for her home.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Taryn’s moving day is FINALLY here….during a heat wave!
• From stair railings to bathrooms, to fireplaces, and more; the finishing touches are almost complete in The Schwartz House.
• What is the update on The Purple Dining Room?
• The Schwartz House’s kitchen has come together with green and brass and other perfections.
• Liz has the first set of architectural plans for renovating the kitchen in her 1930s home to include a butler’s pantry, extra shelves, a dishwasher, and more!
• Caroline really, really, REALLY wants to build a fence.
• Did Liz try to buy Caroline’s house or was there not enough curb appeal?

Mentioned in This Episode:

• The Schwartz House

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are joined by Jenna Gross. Jenna is the founder of Colordrunk Designs here in Atlanta. Jenna grew up in the design business spending countless hours surrounded by textiles at her family's antique and upholstery shops. After working in the fashion industry with Marc Jacobs, Jenna turned her attention to interior design. Today she serves up masterful mixes of pattern and color concocting designs that are refreshing from start to finish. Jenna gives us all of her tips on creating a finished look in a room; everything from drapery, lighting, rugs, and–you guessed it–color!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What sets designer rooms apart from DIY rooms?
• What timeline should people expect to achieve a fully finished look?
• Jenna’s tips for choosing and hanging drapery.
• How to get your lighting just right using different layers, lamps, and even can lights!
• When to have pairs and when to have singles when you decorate.
• Jenna’s advice for getting a rug that’s just right for the space in terms of size, texture, layering, and more.
• How small details can pull together a room and allow for more customization.
• How does Jenna like to use color on wood and millwork?
• How can people with more neutral palettes in their rooms start to incorporate color?
• What are Jenna’s thoughts on having to match various sources of color in the room?
• We got to join Jenna at her Atlanta Homes & Lifestyle Showhouse room; inspired largely by vacation.

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Amy,

It sounds like you want a really fun space. We say if you want to paint the plantation shutters, paint them how you want to see them in your space. We think you should definitely choose a fun wallpaper. If you decide you don’t like the plantation shutters, you can always take them down and do a fun Roman shade. Some of us really hate the plantation shutters (hint: Caroline) and are in favor of taking them off! As far as lacquer goes, you could do that or you could just do a high-gloss; we definitely wouldn’t do a matte. Have fun and make it as dramatic as possible because that seems to be what you’re really aiming for! We would say the Oyster Bay paint color is more of a neutral than anything bold, so it would be nice to use in the whole space. However, if you haven’t picked your wallpaper yet and you definitely want to use one, we would wait to pull a color from there. We would also paint the ceiling too!

We are excited for you! We think it’s going to look great and would love to see the after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Colordrunk Designs
• Colordrunk Designs on Instagram
• Southeastern Showhouse

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are joined today by Dallas-based designer Ginger Curtis of Urbanology Designs. Ginger is passionate about helping others elevate their home’s beauty, comfort, and function to create a stunning design. She has appeared in over 100 magazines and digital publications, as well as several TV & radio shows and podcasts. Her new book Beauty by Design is available now nationwide. Most recently Ginger was recognized as the winner of HGTV’s Designer of the Year award for her tiny home transformation. We talk about the details of that project as well as other tips and tricks for designing a small space, Ginger’s inspiring personal journey, and more!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Ginger discusses the origin of the tiny home project that won her the HGTV award.
• Multi-use function is a key element when designing for a small space.
• Is symmetry important for a small space?
• Sharp corners will not be your friend; lean into relaxed and more rounded items.
• Artwork can be used to create balance.
• How to know when to lean into symmetry or asymmetry.
• Are colors off-limits in a small space?
• After multiple cancer journeys, Ginger realized the impact that homes have on your life.
• The first thing Ginger does for her client’s homes is draw in the natural light.
• Why Ginger’s favorite color is always evolving.
• How you can use artificial lighting to balance the cast from natural light.
• Ginger likes to choose her floors before cabinets.

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Hannah,

Your home is lovely and I love the white wall color you chose. To first address the window treatments, yes definitely get them for texture and warmth! I would suggest using curtain panels but not two on each window. Instead, I would hang your curtain road above the arch so it’s really tall and just flank the far left and the far right side of each window with a double width or even triple width panel. Since you have the fireplace in the middle you don’t want to suffocate it. It will also add drama and it will draw the eye up. Personally, I prefer using ring clips and a pinch pleat when hanging curtains. When it comes to using a solid or a pattern, I think both are appropriate so it will be what your heart gravitates to. I would look at some inspiration photos with rooms that are light and bright and see what speaks to you! You can ask yourself questions like whether you want it to feel more formal or more relaxed.

For other suggestions for the room, you could consider painting the fireplace mantle. A dark blue or green, charcoal, or even black; anything to add some weight to the walls since it’s all very light right now. As far as the furniture layout, I like what you have going on right now. On the right side of the couch you could consider a bench instead of a chair. It would add additional seating with also a unique design element. We love the bookshelf and the wallpaper, as well.

We really think the window treatments are going to go a long way in transforming the space! Please send us after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Urbanology Designs
• Urbanology Designs on Instagram
• Beauty by Design
• Ginger’s Tiny Home Project for HGTV

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are thrilled to welcome Georgia-native Brandon Ingram to the show. Brandon is a Georgia Tech alum and two-time winner of the prestigious Philip Shutze Award for Excellence in Classical Design from the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art (ICAA). In 2012 he founded C. Brandon Ingram design; a full-service residential design firm specializing in custom homes, renovations, and architectural interiors. His work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, House Beautiful, Traditional Home, and more. Brandon has a special ability to craft homes that are rooted in history but also unique and of their time. He flawlessly weaves a sense of charm and familiarity through his use of subtle details. Brandon shares with us his best advice for giving a new build charm and character.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Brandon fell in love with classical architecture as a child in South Georgia.
• Why Brandon advises clients to dig into their feelings and nostalgia when searching for a design style.
• How true to the original design style of a house do you need to stay?
• How to pick the moldings and other features that stay true to the house.
• What Brandon recommends for reviving a 90’s architecture house.
• Brandon recommends using Get Your House Right as a guide to working with your home’s architecture.
• What materials you should prioritize when budgeting for a new build.
• What works more often than not when choosing lighting for a new build?
• What impact has Graceland had on Brandon’s personal design?
• Why it’s important to have an expert help you to preserve the POV of the house.
• Brandon’s simple details are what keep his designs classic.
• What led Brandon to creating house plans?
• What is the advantage of working with an official house plan vs. just working with a builder?
• What is Brandon’s favorite style?
• Outdoor living spaces have become a big focus in-home designs.
• Are people still having large primary bedrooms including sitting areas?
• Why Brandon doesn’t want to see traditional dining rooms go away but rather serve as multifunctional spaces.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• C. Brandon Ingram Design
• C. Brandon Ingram on Instagram
• Get Your House Right

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're catching up with our trials and triumphs of the month. Thanks to an email from our listener Judith, we decided to talk about some of the Ballard Designs products we love! We talk about many products and how we style and customize them; from bedding to sofas to lighting and more. Plus, Taryn gives us an update on The Schwartz House…which is almost done!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How Caroline and Taryn customized their Brie Channel Bed and why Liz wants one!
• Why we love our different bedding options and how we care for them.
• Caroline loves our towels; especially the Suzanne Kasler Trimmed Towels, but Taryn is still on a mission for the perfect ones.
• What Taryn likes about her new Suzanne Kasler Mathes sofa and her standby Sofia sofa.
• Liz is asking the big question; sectional or no sectional?
• Why the Hartwell Sofa may fit better under a window.
• The Connelly Bench is great for additional seating and an easy piece to customize the fabric.
• Caroline sold Taryn on Nala Stool. It’s a great nestler for extra seating!
• The Schwartz House is going to be chock-full of Ballard products like lighting, mirrors, and wallpaper.
• What is the update on the rest of The Schwartz House?
• Taryn’s fireplace and sconce trials and what she’s learned from building a custom home.
• Some of the tips and tricks Taryn got from you…our listeners!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Brie Channel Bed
• Margot Velvet Bedding
• Belgian Linen Sheet Set
• Suzanne Kasler Trimmed Towels
• Suzanne Kasler Mathes Sofa
• Hartwell Upholstered Sofa
• Connelly Bench
• Nala Stool
• Felicity Acrylic Side Table
• Amelie Wall Sconce
• Bodhi Dome Pendant
• Atoll Mirror
• Felix Sconces
• Juliet Floral Wallpaper
• World Traveler Wallpaper
• Spoonflower Wallpaper
• The Schwartz House

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are so excited to welcome Andrea Monath Schumacher to the show. Andrea is an interior designer based out of Denver, Colorado. Her experience ranges from commercial and residential spaces, as well as set design for television at Days of Our Lives and Columbia Pictures. Her design style is heavily influenced by travel and emotion which is laced throughout her debut book Vibrant Interiors: Living Large at Home. She was named House Beautiful‘s Next Wave Designer and she’s also been featured in Architectural Digest, Veranda, and more. Today we talk about injecting personality into our interiors and how to tell a story with design. Andrea talks about how she taps into emotions to make a space feel warm, cozy, and inviting so her clients and guests can feel welcome to share their stories.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Andrea talks about her childhood and travels as the daughter of a virologist.
• What does Andrea mean by “storytelling your interior”?
• Why Andrea loves using conversation starters in her design.
• Layering is a big key to making a space feel cozy.
• The formal dining room is out and the multi-purpose dining room is in.
• Andrea loves making a breakfast nook truly inviting and loungey.
• What are Andrea’s tricks for designing to make people feel their best in their homes?
• The story of how Andrea found her home and the items in it.
• Why Andrea loves grasscloth everywhere; even on the ceilings.
• How Andrea mixes and matches patterns.
• What is in Andrea’s secondary kitchen?
• Andrea’s tip for protecting her wallpaper.
• More about Andrea’s textile and wallpaper collection.
• How does Andrea like to bring art into her clients’ homes?

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Krista,

That whole corner where the tree is, I would put an L-shaped banquette. As far as the table, I would probably find a pedestal/center-based table so it’s easier to get in and out. I don’t like to throw anything away so I would find a way to repurpose it; maybe even as a desk? You could even cut the legs down to use as a tea-height table in the living room! I think the glass table in the living room is too small so that would be perfect. The chairs are fine, and if you had a banquette you could use them on the outside of the eating area. If you were to do the banquette, you would have to swag the lighting fixture to put it over the space. With kids, a zinc top table and/or an oval shape is great. I don’t think you need a rug if you use lots of cozy pillows or fabrics at the banquette, but if you want one you could use an indoor/outdoor rug. With kids, you need something easy to clean. I think you can also use drapery to warm up the space since the window coverings are sparse; you can even do a mock valence to make it look wider if those are operable blinds.

Good luck, Krista!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Andrea Schumacher Interiors
• Andrea Schumacher Interiors on Instagram
• Vibrant Interiors: Living Large at Home
• Liesl Collection

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are thrilled to welcome Chicago-based interior designer Summer Thornton to the show. Her work has appeared in Architectural Digest, ELLE Decor, House Beautiful, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times, as well as on the recent cover of Veranda. Her style is described as maximalist with a modern sensibility, whimsical textiles, bold art, and surprising patterns. She also wrote a fabulous and fun new book called Wonderland: Adventures in Decorating. We talk all about Summer’s fantastic use of colors, how to break the rules, and how if you really love something it’s never “too much”!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• We talk about how much we all love Summer’s coffee table book Wonderland: Adventures in Decorating.
• Why Summer loves using her dining room table as a “stage” when entertaining.
• How does Summer account for having two young children when designing?
• What are Summer’s guidelines for coming up with a color scheme?
• How you can break the color rules of a color palette and make it work.
• Summer’s biggest tip for designing a room is to try to plan it all at once.
• Summer thinks the important investment pieces are fabric and textiles.
• What are some of Summer’s favorite fabrics, colors, and combinations?
• Summer loves using bold and fanciful shapes.
• To layer and “make it work”, Summer really recommends truly loving everything in your space.
• Rules that Summer likes to break like using neutral sofas and the idea of throwaway spaces.
• Summer is designing a beach dream house in Mexico. Follow the progress for Casa Rosada Sayulita!
• Summer’s final tip is to use a larger sample swatch to truly see a color.

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Deb,

I love the idea of incorporating an older piece into this space. I don’t like rooms that have all painted furniture, so I think the concept of using a wood tone balances this. What I think might be throwing things off is the style of this piece; I think it’s maybe too delicate compared to the other pieces. That said, if you wanted to try to paint it, you could see if that helps it fit in better. Otherwise, I would recommend getting a different piece with a wood stain finish; I do think that works well. The other thing to consider is the styling; I would maybe take the runner off and style the lamp with a more modern shade. If you wanted to try, you could also bring more warm tones in to incorporate with this piece; maybe something like throw pillows and/or a floral fabric. I think you could live it up a little and change that wall color! If you are set on neutral, really soft pink or if you want to stay on the cool side a light lavender is a good place to start dipping your toe into colors.

Good luck, Deb! Pick up Summer’s book for inspiration and send us pics!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Summer Thornton Design
• Summer Thornton Design on Instagram
• Wonderland: Adventures in Decorating
• Casa Rosada Sayulita
• “The Blue Room” - Lakeshore Drive Co-Op
• Veranda May/June issue
• Mary Blair
• Farrow & Ball Paint Colors

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are so excited to cover a topic that we get asked about a lot – how to design and decorate kid spaces! Our guest today, Pebbles Nix, is an Atlanta-based interior designer and founder of Pebbles Nix Interiors. Pebbles has built her business on repeat customers like young families who need more space, empty nesters who are downsizing, and vacation homes for special family gatherings. Her work has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyle, Charlotte Magazine, and more. We talk about leaning into performance fabrics, not waiting to invest in design when kids are grown, how to keep those toys organized, and so much more! If you have children (or even if you’re a kid at heart!), this episode is definitely for you.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How you can still design the way you want and work around to make it “kid-friendly”.
• In the end, it’s always worth investing in beautiful and high-end pieces even with little kids.
• Diving into the different options for performance fabrics.
• Patterns and darker colors are also great for camouflaging stains.
• When to use leather vs. when to use faux leather (vinyl).
• Are people using slipcovers?
• Pebble likes to use indoor/outdoor rugs in kid spaces; especially seagrass and sisal.
• Pebble has tricks like painting floors and patterns to make things fun.
• Wallpaper is very on-trend right now; is it durable enough for kids?
• Tips for having kids’ storage and a dedicated space for toys.
• How does Pebbles account for multiple ages and lasting design when kids’ preferences change so much?
• Does Pebbles recommend any house rules for families with children?
• An important thing to remember is that they won’t be kids forever; so let them enjoy the design too and explore their individuality!

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Brenna,

I think you should use peel-and-stick wallpaper on all of the walls! I agree; replace those towels with some fun, colorful ones. If you can paint, I would paint the vanity and/or the door or the trim. I love painting the ceiling, too. Powder rooms are actually great places to go bold. The nice thing with a small space like this is it’s not a huge expense; so even if you decide to paint and have to repaint it wouldn’t be that costly. We think one big piece of art instead of lots of little ones would be nice; even if you could move the towel bar to the other wall. Since your artwork seems to be all very beachy and tropical, even a mural wallpaper with that theme would work well. Another non-permanent way to decorate is to accessorize the counter space. We don’t think this is the primary bath, but if it is and you’ll be using the shower a lot, then consider using paint instead of wallpaper due to the humidity factor.

We’re so excited for you, Brenna! Make some bold moves and show us what you did!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Pebbles Nix Interiors

Pebbles Nix on Instagram

Crypton Fabrics

Sunbrella Fabrics

Indoor/Outdoor Rugs

Phillip Jeffries Wallpaper

Stuffed Animal Storage Bean Bag Chair Cover

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are excited to be starting something new! Over the years we’ve heard from those of you who love our Trials & Triumphs. And those who… don’t. So we have decided to introduce a series of episodes that will only include our Trials & Triumph, as well as episodes that will only include interviews with our guests. This empowers you, the listener, to choose to listen to what you want; either or both formats. We value your feedback, so please let us know what you think!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What outdoor projects Caroline has been doing; some inspired by our episode with Carmen Johnston and her faux boxwood planter tutorial.
• Caroline has revamped her outdoor dining table with succulents and also repainted her front door… again.
• Apparently, Taryn, Caroline, and Liz all have interesting color choices – especially when it comes to green.
• How Caroline’s roses from Antique Rose Emporium are doing and how she inspired Taryn to do her own.
• Liz has hired an architect to remodel her kitchen and what the previous owners left behind.
• Can Liz give us a sneak peek into her plans and color scheme ideas for the kitchen?
• Beige and taupe are back!
• Samplize peel & stick is a great way to try different paint samples; see Taryn’s Secret Garden swatch here.
• Inspired by our episode with Gail Davis. Liz was able to choose a peel & stick wallpaper. Find out what her hack is applying it.
• Like Caroline, Liz has also been doing a lot of gardening. And she might have a problem…
• Taryn has given her 60 Day Notice on her rental; but will her house be livable?
• The Schwartz House suddenly has a lot going on; from doors to power lines and more.
• Taryn has decided to make her own wallpaper, inspired by a look she saw from designer Danielle Rollins.
• To make big statements with her lighting, Taryn chose the Talia Chandelier and Bodhi Dome Pendant.
• How cabinet colors caused a domino effect in Taryn’s wall paint colors.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Ep. 250: Landscape Design with Carmen Johnston
• Ep. 240: designer Gail Davis
• Watch Carmen’s Outdoor Decorating Series with Ballard Designs
• Carmen Johnston Gardens on TikTok
• Antique Rose Emporium
• Samplize
• Ace Hardware
• Zulily
• The Schwartz House
• Danielle Rollins
• Circa Lighting Talia Chandelier
• Ballard Designs Bodhi Dome Pendant

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s show, we welcome Massachusetts-based designer Katie Rosenfeld. Katie’s design style can be summed up as happy, family-friendly, and approachable. Katie’s ability to approach traditional design in an unexpected way makes her stand out. She blurs the lines between classic and modern with bits of quirky added for good measure. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, New England Home, HGTV Magazine, and House Beautiful. Katie will also be launching a new line of bathroom vanities called Vanity & Co later this year. We discuss with Katie what her tips are to modernize a traditional look, which designs are on trend and which are classics, where she uses chintz, why she doesn’t like the term Grandmillenial, and so much more! 

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What does traditional with a twist mean to Katie and what are tips to modernize?
• Is floral trendy or timeless?
• How to avoid falling into trendy furnishing traps.
• Where does Katie’s love of traditional design come from?
• How geography can influence what “traditional” means.
• What is chintz and what are the different ways Katie is using it?
• How does Katie get those ruffled flange pillows to look modern?
• Needlepoint is on trend and this is why we love it.
• Does Katie begin patterns first and then add artwork or vice versa?
• Why does Katie want to get “dirty” right now?
• Are hunter green and burgundy back?!
• Katie enjoys imperfections and mismatching as a key to style like in this plate wall.
• How does Katie pull off using an allover print or camouflage effect?
• Katie is still a fan of cohesion between rooms without being too matchy-matchy.

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Sarah,

Thank you for writing in. Love the idea of dark and moody. However, this room has a lot going on in terms of pitch, so I would actually argue possibly painting the ceilings, walls, and trim all of the same neutral, creamy colors to detract from the pitch issues. Then I might do the dark and moody on the floor or in other textiles like furnishings or textiles. This is a great room for art! I love the contemporary piece over the bed and I might load the wall over the windowsill with all sorts of different art. I see a lot of solids, so I would definitely call for some patterns. Noting that you have wall-to-wall carpet if you can replace it with a patterned broadloom like stripes or checks that would be my first place. I almost see the big sea of the beige floor as your biggest problem. So if you don’t want to replace it, you can easily get area rugs and layer them over it. It all depends on your budget and what you want to do! For window treatments, I definitely think bold drapery is the way to go. Since you don’t have a lot of natural light, dark and moody draperies can help warm things up. You could even reupholster your bed in the same fabric or something complementary. You have great ceiling height so be careful with proportion and scale when it comes to light fixtures, but you have a lot of license to do a lot of interesting things with your light fixtures. It can even be multi-tiered to fill up the space. In the corner where you have the armoire, I would have several questions before I could fully answer it. For instance, is it being used for storage and function? To me it seems big and crammed for that space so if there is another place in the room I would relocate it; maybe even the wall perpendicular. That will give full access and potential to your drapery. You could even put a chaise lounge in that corner if it’s in the budget. In terms of bedding, I love white bedding as the base; but NOT cream! I think a classic monogrammed white bedding would look great here with some patterned sheets and even some additional white sheets.

I think we got everything, Sarah! Good luck and please send us after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Katie Rosenfeld & Co
• Katie Rosenfeld & Co on Instagram
• Vanity & Co
• Katie Rosenfeld on YouTube

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are delighted to welcome Atlanta-based interior designer Emily Wyatt, of Wyatt Designs, to the show. Emily’s designs are fresh yet classic, and her signature strength is her ability to achieve these results while working within her clients’ budgets. We get candid with Emily about all the ins and outs of hiring an interior designer in order to demystify the process. We talk about everything from costs, to timelines, to how to get started, and much more. If you’re feeling intimidated about hiring an interior designer or just want to learn more, you’ll want to tune in to our conversation with Emily.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What is the first step when thinking of hiring an interior designer?
• Which credentials, if any, should someone look for in an interior designer?
• Which red flags to look out for.
• Why individual chemistry is so important when matching with a designer.
• Why there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hiring a designer.
• Why it’s crucial to define your own needs before you begin the process of working with a designer.
• Communication is a two-way street between designer and client, and it’s so important!
• What are some general timelines after meeting with a designer?
• Does a client need to have their style defined before getting started?
• So…how much does it cost?!
• What is a realistic budget for furnishings?
• Are there different payment options or levels of service?
• What to consider during the installation process.
• What happens when clients are unhappy with their choices?
• What was Emily’s favorite install thus far?

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Heather,

Thanks for writing again! I think for the side of the room that shares a wall with the bathroom, clothing storage is going to be your best bet. I would definitely not block the window if I were you because natural light is so important, so maybe set your sights on just a taller dresser. If it’s in the budget, I would highly recommend installing built-ins in place of where the armoire is. There’s a way to do it where it doesn’t have to be too expensive but can still look great. Also, you can customize it to meet your exact needs. In terms of nightstands, a lot will depend on user preference but if you need storage look for ones with drawers. I wouldn’t go any bigger than what you have and I’m a big fan of white nightstands. To choose the right finish I don’t think there is a wrong answer. I like to think of the finishes as a contrast to the piece. I also think you can definitely mix and match wood, but I would limit the amount that you use and think of how they play into the overall texture of the room. I love an heirloom, so the horse lamp can definitely stay along with the rug and the bench. They all really compliment each other. I am generally a fan of making the bed the focal point of the bedroom and then building out layers from there (think 3 supporting layers/pieces). You can keep your next layers on the lighter side then accent them with things like patterned drapes, bedding, chair upholstery, etc.

We are excited to see how the WHOLE renovation works out. Please keep us updated and send photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Wyatt Designs

Wyatt Designs on Instagram

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are so excited to welcome Georgian native, Carmen Johnston of Carmen Johnston Gardens. If you’re on TikTok, you’ve likely seen Carmen’s helpful tips & tricks for gardening. She is known for her attention to aesthetics and the creation of stunning outdoor spaces, while taking function and lifestyle into consideration. Coming soon in 2022, Carmen will continue her role for HGTV as their Outdoor Living Designer & On-Camera Expert. We chat about landscape design, include some questions from listeners (and ourselves!), and hear SO many tips and tricks about all things garden. You’ll definitely want to take some notes and get planting after this episode!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How to use Ballard’s faux boxwood planter fillers in a brand new way.
• What does it mean to “top dress” your planters?
• How to know which size boxwood to use.
• Why Angelina Sedum is the most universal plant for outdoor design.
• Where should you place your boxwoods?
• Tips for which plants to use to last through the heat and how often to water them.
• Which flowers should be deadheaded?
• Is there a difference between deadheading and pruning?
• Why it’s important to figure out what Zone you live in to determine your maintenance times.
• When is it best to plant perennials?
• Tips and common mistakes for container gardens.
• Tips for indoor plants & containers.
• Where can you find good moss?
• Which plants and flowers are good for Snip and Clip gardens?
• Which plants are good for a shade garden?
• How to have your garden “cocktail ready”!
• What to plant to keep bugs and mosquitos away.
• What are the best resources for gardening tips?
• A series of listener garden questions like which Magnolia tree to plant, when to plant wisteria and jasmine, and how to grow plants on a house.
• Who is Carmen’s favorite landscape architect?
• Why you need to create layers, anchors, and leave breathing room in front of the house.
• How can you disguise a compost bin?
• Tips for landscaping with high-energy dogs.
• Tips for lawns that get shade in the morning but blasted with sun in the afternoon.
• All about the rules for roots.
• Pine straw or mulch?
• Why coming up with a landscape plan is so important.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Watch Carmen's Outdoor Decorating series with Ballard Designs

Faux Boxwood Planter Filler

Canopy Self Watering Planter

Carmen Johnston Gardens

Carmen Johnston Gardens on Instagram

Carmen Johnston Gardens on TikTok

Bespoke Garden Plans

Ballard Designs on YouTube

Find Your Extension Service Agent

Fafard Soil

Ben Page Landscape

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we are discussing the very important and fast-growing topic of sustainability in design with expert, Laurence Carr. Laurence is the creative director and CEO of her award-winning New York-based design studio Laurence Carr Inc. Her signature style blends well-being practices with contemporary design and smart technology. She shares with us her passion for educating the design community on its impact on the environment, how our well-being is inextricably intertwined with our surroundings and materials, and where we can focus our efforts to design with sustainability in mind.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• When did Laurence first combine her design, wellness, and environmental work?
• What does it mean to design a healthy interior?
• Biophilic design and how Laurence uses it.
• What is “forest bathing” (Shinrin-yoku in Japanese) and how does it relate to design?
• In the practice of engaging every sense in design, how can you incorporate scent?
• What it means to buy sustainable items.
• Materials and fabrics that are more sustainable.
• Are solar panels on your home worth it and what needs to be considered in the installation?
• The best way to upcycle your home goods.
• How does smart technology tie into sustainable design?
• The #1 wellness item in Laurence’s home that has made the biggest difference.

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Kimberly,

My first inclination would be to mount the TV on the orange painted wall so it’s not a focal point, is easy to watch, and is out of reach for young kids. To distract from the bulkhead I would find a way to incorporate it into the design of the living room. You can paint it the same color as the ceiling, use recessed LED lighting to highlight parts of the mantle, or you can decorate it to make it look like a wood beam. Or even replace it with an actual wood beam! No matter what you need to paint that current wood trim so it blends instead of sticks. For the best flow, I would have a sofa that faces the fireplace with armchairs on either side instead of a sectional. Your final question about hidden storage for kids' books and toys, I would suggest putting a wall system in that very long wall where the fireplace is. You can make the height go up to the height of the mantle and you can play around with doors, movable shelves, etc. The key is making it easy to reach while also reducing clutter. You want efficiency but also for it to be multi-purpose for longevity purposes; you want to be able to use it for built-ins after the kids outgrow this phase. Don’t forget to of course use GREENGUARD gold-certified materials!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Laurence Carr Inc

Laurence Carr Inc on Instagram

Laurence Carr Inc on Pinterest

Chez Laurence

Ballard Designs Performance Fabrics by Sunbrella

Wren Dining Table

The LBC Red List

Sustainable Furnishings Council

What does GREENGUARD Certified mean?

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spring is here and that means many of us are doing outdoor decorating. Our guest today, Brantley Snipes, is a Mississippi-based landscape architect as well as the owner, lead designer, and project manager for Brantley Snipes Landscape Design. When she’s not working with clients, she works on preservation projects for the nonprofit Main Street Greenwood, Inc. where she serves as Executive Director. Among many accolades, Brantley was named to the Greenwood Commonwealth’s Top 30 under 40. We talk all about the importance of landscape design, creating outdoor rooms, what to know before you DIY, how to embrace pine straw, and address many of your landscape questions.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Why time is such a crucial element in landscape design.
• The importance of using native plants as part of a landscape design and avoiding invasive plants.
• Where do you find native plants?
• What should the first step of beginning landscape design be?
• How can you design a low-maintenance cutting garden?
• How to have a balance of seasonal blooms, evergreen, and deciduous plants.
• Does your landscape style need to match your house style?
• How to balance soft curves and sharp angles with landscape design.
• When is the best time to plant and the best time to move/replant?
• Do plants need to be pruned before they are moved?
• What are Brantley’s thoughts on raised beds?
• Why would someone use a raised bed instead of just planting in the ground?
• What are Brantley’s preliminary maintenance tips to know about before planting?
• Which mulch does Brantley prefer?
• How to protect plants from invasive species in your yard.
• When to DIY and when to hire professionals for design and/or maintenance.
• Good news. A holistic approach to landscaping means no more bagging leaves!
• Why a mature landscape can mean less maintenance.
• Brantley’s final thoughts and why you should never plant before Easter.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design

Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design on Instagram

Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design on Facebook

Osmanthus Market

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re doing something a little different and very exciting on the show today! Zoe, Hillary, and Taryn are here from the product design team. They give us the inside scoop and their different perspectives all around the in-house product design process here at Ballard Designs. When we did our listener survey a little while back, so many of you said you wanted to know more about the product. Well, we heard you and today we answer all of those questions and more!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How far in advance does the planning for product design happen?
• Where does the initial concept for product design come from?
• How much input do different Ballard Designs employees or customers have on product design?
• Why a problem or challenge can lead to the best product design.
• What tools do we use to design products?
• What are our favorite recent projects?
• The Hutton Office Collection and exciting updates that are coming.
• How we are improving and updating our Original Home Office (OHO) line.
• Have there ever been times when the sample from a design comes in terribly wrong?
• How small design changes can actually make a BIG impact.
• How does having only US-based upholstery vendors affect design?
• How many new products Ballard launches each year.
• What are some upcoming materials and trends the team is excited about?

Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

Hutton Office Collection

Original Home Office

Lucille Chandelier

Allister Upholstered Chairs

Abbeville Collection

Request a Catalog

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are beyond excited to have UK-based stylist and interior designer Sophie Robinson on the show! Sophie has over 20 years of experience working across TV and magazines. She hosts her own show, Dream Homemakeovers with Sophie Robinson, where she transforms homes with her keen eye for paint, patterns, and furnishings. Sophie also judged the best emerging design talent on BBC Two’s The Great Interior Design Challenge. Throughout her blog, online courses, and TV shows you’ll find that Sophie’s secret sauce is her use of color (or “colour” if you’re in the UK). She’s on a mission to liberate us all from the beige and boring! Sophie’s personality is as colorful as her work, and we loved talking to her about her process and the psychology behind it. We’ll also dive deep into her tips and tricks for how to LIVE IN COLOR!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How Sophie knew at a young age she wanted to be a designer and how she grew to love color.
• When and where did Sophie officially begin her career?
• Sophie dives into the psychology and importance of color.
• How can you make color choices feel cohesive?
• How our emotional connections to seasons can play into our color choices.
• Are we allowed to have more than one “season” in our home design?
• How do you find the values and undertones of colors?
• Sophie describes how to rate colors as “soft” and “hard.”
• Why Sophie recommends evaluating your wardrobe and environment to discover your color palette.
• What is the best way to gather and arrange a mood board?
• Why it’s important to have physical swatches even with the ease of digital services.
• What is the biggest color mistake Sophie has ever made?
• How does Sophie describe the very popular minimalist style?
• Sophie helps Taryn pick some colors for her dining room in The Schwartz House.

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Stacey,

You have great proportions and a generously sized living room, and the layout is not complicated so that’s great! The big windows are lovely, and I can see the treetops and lots of gorgeous natural light. I don’t think this home is lacking, personally. You’ve got good bones! We might have some cultural differences on this, but I don’t think you need to add any moldings. Here in the UK, we are into honoring the integrity of the architecture, and when I hear the word “moldings” it’s quite different than what you may think in terms of just adding texture to the walls. That said, my rule of thumb is never to put period moldings into a home that is older than your house. So for instance in your 1970s house, I wouldn’t put Victorian, Georgian, etc. In terms of window treatments, you want to keep this light and openness, so I would stick to ones that are minimal. I think Roman shades would look great or you could have curtains, but just keep them very tailored. I am afraid I can’t tell you what color to paint your walls! After listening to this podcast you know you have some work to do in terms of figuring out your color choices. You can mix patterns and plains as long as there is a common thread throughout. In open-plan spaces like this, people tend to stay neutral throughout as to not overwhelm, but I think you can do really cool things with paint. I would keep the ceiling one color throughout; it doesn’t have to stay white but I would keep it light. I think using the 90-degree turn of the walls is a perfect natural breakpoint to change colors; you don’t need an architrave or molding to do it. It all depends on what tonal family you choose in order to choose actual colors. You could also use cabinet doors as an opportunity to paint.

Please let us know which color palette you choose, Stacey. Send pictures!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Sophie Robinson

Sophie Robinson on Instagram

The Great Indoors Podcast

The Great Interior Design Challenge

The Beginner’s Guide to Colour Psychology, by Angela Wright

Designers Guild

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Award-winning architect and author Jeffrey Dungan joins us on the show today to talk all about bringing joy to home design. He founded his firm, Jeffrey Dungan Architects, with a focus on creating private residences with lasting beauty. He’s known for his clean and modern approach to classical architecture. His accolades include numerous awards from the American Institute of Architects, Veranda, and ADAC’s 2017 Southeastern Architect of the Year, being named a Shutze fellow by the Institute of Classical Architecture, and a prestigious Palladio Award. His work has been featured in The Wallstreet Journal, Garden & Gun, Southern Living, House Beautiful, and many others. His highly regarded book, The Nature of Home, is available now and he’s also working on a second book. We talk all about Jeffrey’s creative process, his playfulness and childlike approach to design, why he thinks a house should “wink” at you, an in-depth look at natural light, and much more.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How Jeffrey’s journey to architecture began on his family farm in rural Alabama.
• Why Jeffrey likes to create ethereal homes by focusing on natural light and materials.
• Using visual interest to create an inviting, intuitive flow in a home.
• Jeffrey likes to be playful and have “zingers” in a home design; what is his favorite zinger?
• How Jeffrey accomplishes his ultimate goal in his work: to bring joy.
• The trick to bringing in the right amount of natural light and materials.
• How geography and topography play a big part in architectural design.
• How Jeffrey’s personal home build with his wife is coming along.
• When does Jeffrey recommend bringing in a team of professionals in the home-building process?

Decorating Dilemma

Hi McKinley,

Some of the best interior decorators never went to interior design school, so you don’t have to necessarily go to a specialty program. That said, it’s not a bad idea either! Anecdotally, I went to architectural school with Ray Booth who now spends most of his time doing interior design, but he had a strong foundation from his education. If you have interior design firms in mind, I would say go ahead and reach out to them. You could certainly see if they have an internship or summer program so you can get your feet wet and decide if it’s really what you want to do. Family ties can always be helpful, but there is SO much work out there right now that I don’t think you’ll have trouble finding a place that would be happy to bring you on. Never underestimate the power of a handwritten note! My best advice would be to follow your heart. If you’re at architectural school and you still feel interior design pulling at you, I would explore it. Even if you spend some time doing it and decide it’s not for you, it's better to know now than always wonder. It’s a true gift to be able to do something you naturally love and are passionate about. Good luck!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Jeffrey Dungan Architects

Jeffrey Dungan on Instagram

The Nature of Home

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today is all about, you guessed it, furniture shopping! We have scoured your questions, consulted with our SVP of Merchandising and Design Skye Kirby Westcott, and used our collective knowledge and personal experiences to bring you today’s episode! We're sharing our best tips on what to know before you buy furniture, how to not regret your purchases, what to splurge on, and so much more. Plus, we bring back the “highly divisive” Trials & Triumphs!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Trials & Triumphs with welcoming a new baby, redesigning a home office with our Hutton Collection, organizing and storage, a housewarming party, house building updates, doorknob dilemmas, tile adventures, and more.
• The piece we got the most questions about – all about choosing a sofa!
• Breaking down the differences in fabric and why you should splurge.
• Why you should consider additional seating.
• How to navigate long lead times.
• Why you need to measure, measure, MEASURE!
• How to evaluate your family’s needs when choosing a dining room table and chairs.
• Why you should always talk to the store and showroom sales associates.
• How to select furniture that makes a space feel collected but not like a showroom.
• Do all of the woods in a room need to match?
• What items to splurge on.
• How to set up a budget and develop a plan.
• How to stay focused for a room design with an inspiration piece.
• A tip to “sample” a rug before purchasing a large one.
• What to do when you love a piece but don’t have room for it.
• How to know if a piece will look and fit right in your home before purchasing.
• How to take your color palette everywhere with you.
• What furniture regrets we have.
• What our favorite furniture pieces are.
• What we know now about furniture after working for Ballard Designs.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Hutton Collection
• Lemonde Dining Table
• Ep. 159: How to Pick the Perfect Chair
• Meet Skye
• Ep. 138: Skye Kirby Westcott
• Ep. 212: Light & Livable with Skye Kirby Westcott

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we welcome Dallas-based interior designer Meredith Ellis to the show. Meredith has over two decades of experience in the industry and specializes in creating soulful, layered homes that are sophisticated yet livable. Her career began while she worked under the legendary Bunny Williams in NYC before moving west to hone her skills with internationally renowned designer Michael Smith. Meredith is also the founder of JAMES showroom featuring fabric, wallpaper, furniture, lighting, and carpets for Texas and the South. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, Better Homes and Gardens, Southern Living, and The LA Times. We dive into Meredith’s “seamless” use of fabrics with patterns, colors, and textures and tips and tricks for how (and where) to use them!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How did Meredith start a career in design?
• What tips & tricks did Meredith learn from working for legendary designers?
• Where should we begin with fabrics?
• What are the best fabrics for tufting?
• What patterns does Meredith gravitate to for sofas, drapes, and wallpapers, respectively?
• All about how to use fabric for lampshades.
• Does Meredith have tips for making bold vs. subtle decisions with patterns?
• How Meredith was able to use fabric in a modern way for the Kips Bay Room.
• When does Meredith like to use a mural wallpaper?
• How to bring fabric with textures and patterns into bedding.
• What’s the best way to familiarize yourself with fabrics before choosing?
• Where does Meredith draw inspiration and influence?
• What antique malls and dealers does Meredith love?

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Kristen,

Your house has such classic and beautiful bones. I think the biggest bang for your buck is going to be painting and adding some color. I would draw color from the living room maybe from the Oriental rug; I would probably use sage or gray blues. Drawing shades from nature is a great way to get comfortable adding color. A real show stopper is just painting your walls, trim, and window casings. If you are just going to paint the dining room, I would do maybe a soft gray-blue and then your millwork a little darker to give some depth. On the ceiling, I would lighten up that color by half. If you need storage I would paint that breakfront a pretty high gloss color; either a contrast like black or dark dark green. You could also do wallpaper in the back of the cabinets and display the china there. In terms of the drapery, I don’t think you have to do the same fabric in both of the rooms. You can do one as a pattern (in the dining room) and maybe one a little more tame (in the living room). Just have them relate on some level, but they definitely don’t have to be the same. One of the other things you could do is use some bold art as a great statement piece; maybe something with some color. Since you’re on a budget you could try places like Facebook Marketplace, antique malls, Chairish, or 1st Dibs. On the rug, it depends on how bold you go with art, but it definitely needs to be a low pile so you can move chairs easily in and out. You could do sisal but I would not do another Oriental since that's in your living room. Maybe a pretty stripe, diamond, or another geometric pattern. When you get to the point that your budget allows it, I would do some pretty upholstered chairs for the dining room–something that’s really durable especially if you have kids. Think performance fabric or pattern. Otherwise, just paint the window frames. I also love painting doors a contrast color, so if you want you can paint the french doors either a fun color or go darker than whatever you choose for the millwork. But I really think we gotta get some green in there.

A little paint can really make such an impact! This house has such great bones…good luck and please send us some pics!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Meredith Ellis Design
• Meredith Ellis on Instagram
• JAMES
• JAMES on Instagram
• Kips Bay Room

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our guest today is the inspiring and highly knowledgeable interior designer Rasheeda Gray. Her Philadelphia-based firm, Gray Space Interior Design, specializes in residential and boutique commercial projects. Her work has been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, Architectural Digest, ELLE Décor, HGTV, and more. In 2021 Rasheeda was named one of House Beautiful’s Next Wave Designers. This episode is all about renovating! Rasheeda gives us tips and tricks for the entire renovation process, insight into her personal and professional experience answers all of your renovation questions and more. She gives us an in-depth look at why planning is so important as well as how to stay focused and on budget!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• What kind of questions should you ask yourself before a home renovation project?
• Rasheeda walks us through the budget and pricing process.
• How often do clients veer off course during renovations?
• Is it better to renovate project-by-project or all at once?
• When to hire a professional vs. when it’s okay to DIY.
• How supply chain issues are affecting renovation projects and what delays to expect.
• The importance of taking a holistic approach to renovation and design planning.
• How to keep a focus and theme during the entire process.
• How much should you worry about resale value when renovating?
• What colors are trending in 2022 and where can you use them?
• If you’re on a tight budget, what one room would Rasheeda suggest focusing on?
• The importance of getting measurements and creating a floorplan.

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi Tracy,

This is definitely a complex design dilemma! Keeping in mind that you want the space to be comfy and inviting, let’s start there. Since there are no defined walls I would suggest you float the furniture. I would recommend getting an area rug that’s big enough to contain all the furniture and ground the space. I would lean towards putting the sectional on the window wall. Then I would have 2 chairs and maybe a small ottoman flanking the sofa to create conversational areas. The ping pong table is a really difficult addition to this space! But you could put it to the far right side of the room. If possible, I would look for a table where you can put a cover or nicer fabric over it that makes it look less “ping pong-y!” To save space I would put some ottomans for seating in this zone that can slide under the table. Regarding window treatments, I wouldn’t cover the windows since you love that natural light. Think of window treatments like eyebrows in that they frame and complete the look. It will give the room a sense of cohesiveness, as well. On those 2 thin windows on either side of the main window, I would hang the curtain rods the same height and use one small panel on each. If you’re worried about baseboard heaters you could use shades, but I don’t think it’s a problem. I prefer floor-length curtains for this space and you could always use tiebacks when you use the heaters. The chandelier is a bit big and formal for the space so if you’re looking to change it, I would personally get rid of it. If you have a choice I would go with recessed lights throughout the space with a few accent lamps, as well. For paint, I always say pick it last. You can certainly go with white, but to make the space feel really cozy I would go with a medium neutral color like a taupe or gray to warm it up. One of my favorites is Repose Gray. Then bring color in with all of your furniture, artwork, accessories, etc.

We’re so glad you enjoy the show, Tracy! Please send us the after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Gray Space Interior Design
• Gray Space Interior Design on Instagram
• Gray Space Interior Design on Facebook
• Gray Space Interior Design on YouTube
• Gray Space Interior Design on Pinterest
• House Beautiful Next Wave Designers

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices