How To Decorate

We're thrilled to welcome Mallory Robbins and Elizabeth Bennett of Kansas City's design duo KOBEL + CO, who are celebrated for their distinctive style that seamlessly blends timeless treasures with modern aesthetics to create uniquely intimate spaces. Mallory and Elizabeth share their secrets for crafting moods that capture both heart and style, kicking things off by diving into their client-centered approach, where understanding the desired feel and experience shapes the design journey. You’ll love their tips on using scale, texture, and layered lighting to transform any room into a moody masterpiece. The design duo also explore the return of traditional entertaining spaces post-pandemic and share great advice on making bold choices in the kitchen. Don’t miss their take on designing imaginative kids' rooms, where creativity knows no bounds! ***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel*** What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decor

This week, Caroline and Liz welcome the visionary interior designer Kishani Perera, who merges aesthetics with health to create her signature Healthy Homes™. Kishani's approach to design emphasizes the use of curated, non-toxic materials and thoughtful design choices that not only respect the environment but also enhance the physical well-being of her clients. Kishani discusses her evolution as a designer over the past 20 years, touching on everything from the beauty of antiques to her health challenges that inspired her focus on creating non-toxic living spaces. She provides invaluable insights on the importance of reusing materials and how these practices add character and warmth to a home. Join us as she shares her holistic view on design and how beautiful interiors can promote a healthier lifestyle. ***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel*** What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate 00:34 Welcoming Kishani Perera 01:54

Liz and Taryn chat with celebrated interior designers James Dolenc and Tom Riker of James Thomas. Since 2003, James and Tom have been transforming homes with their unique design philosophy centered on elegance and comfort. They discuss their journey from commercial interiors to high-end residential design, emphasizing details, historical understanding, and the importance of creating spaces that evoke emotion. The conversation covers the duo's design heroes, the significance of team culture, and practical advice for both aspiring designers and homeowners. Additionally, they answer a listener's decorating dilemma about a challenging living room layout, providing thoughtful, expert solutions. ***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel*** What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 00:34 Meet the Designers: James Dolenz and Tom Riker 01:55 The Journey of James Thomas Firm 04:22 Building a Creative and Supportive Team

Join Caroline and Taryn as we chat with talented Santa Monica-based designer Christine Markatos-Lowe, who dives deep into her innovative theory of color and space. Get ready to be inspired as Christine shares her expert insights on mastering the color wheel, sparking emotions through color choices, and her top tips for finding the perfect hue harmony in your home. Discover how to seamlessly blend your existing art and textiles into new designs, and gain a sneak peek into the collaborative dance between designers and architects. This week's podcast does not have a YouTube video version. What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 00:34 Meet Christine Marketos Lowe 01:34 Christine's Journey from Fine Art to Design 04:55 The Emotional Impact of Color 09:33 Practical Tips for Using Color in Your Home 23:46 Collaborating with Architects and Clients 29:30 Creating Cohesive Color Palettes 37:39 Christine's Recent Projects and Inspirations 40:54 Conclusion an

This week, the ladies come together in Taryn's stunning new dining room for our much-loved annual holiday hosting special (can you believe it’s been a whole year already?! ) The trio are here to spill their personal hosting secrets and cherished holiday traditions, starting with Thanksgiving hosting rituals and meal prep hacks to deep dives into the art of holiday decorating. Prepare to be inspired as they chat about all things Christmas trees. Whether you're Team Real or Team Pre-Lit, they've got great ideas to help you find your perfect match. Plus, they’ll share their creative spins on wreaths, stockings, and table settings that will wow your guests. As always, listener questions steal the spotlight: From convincing your partner to embrace a fabulous fake tree to easy-peasy strategies for low-effort, high-impact holiday décor, we cover it all in this year's holiday hosting special. Let’s make this season's decor one to remember! Watch this week's episode as recorded on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel;

This week, Taryn and Liz welcome back award-winning interior designer and author Marie Flanagan, who discusses her newest book, 'The Perfect Room: Timeless Designs for Intentional Living.' Marie shares insights from her extensive work, including her approach to architectural interiors, the importance of texture, and how to blend elegance with functionality. She also delves into tips for designing entryways, dining rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms, emphasizing the importance of a layered and personal touch in home decor. Watch this week's conversation as recorded on Ballard Designs YouTube. What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate 00:34 Welcoming Marie Flanagan 01:54 Marie Flanagan's Design Philosophy 04:19 The Perfect Room: Intentional Living 11:17 Designing the Perfect Entryway 17:34 Creating a Layered and Collected Home 23:19 The Importance of Dining Rooms 28:34 Designing Hallways and Staircases 31:59 Signaling Spaces: Welcoming Design Elements 3

We're excited to welcome back style icon and TV personality Carson Kressley, who shares his favorite holiday decorating and hosting tips as we get into the swing of the season. From tree trimming parties and coordinating guest rooms to serving simple yet crowd-pleasing food for holiday gatherings, Carson's practical advice aims to make the holiday season festive and stress-free. He also He provides insight into his own yearly Thanksgiving traditions, including hosting the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade. Watch this week's conversation as recorded on Ballard Designs YouTube. What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate! 00:34 Welcoming Carson Kressley 02:30 Thanksgiving Traditions and Tips 04:24 Tree Trimming and Holiday Decor 07:27 Guest Room Preparations 19:08 Organizing Holiday Decorations 22:37 Wreaths and Greenery 27:10 Tailoring Decor to Your Space 31:17 Christmas Traditions and Hosting Style 33:15 Holiday Entertaining Tips 34:05 Managing Guests

We're joined this week by acclaimed designer & author Elaine Griffin, where we dive deep into the fundamentals of decorating through her 2009 best-selling book, 'Design Rules: The Insider's Guide to Becoming Your Own Decorator.' The ladies discuss proportion principles, the impact of personal style, and the importance of timeless design, all while Elaine opens up about her Southern cultural influences, navigating different regional styles, evolving personal aesthetics, and strategic planning for young decorators. The episode also emphasizes how to incorporate cherished items, where and when to invest in quality furniture pieces, and how to adapt your design choices to life experiences in a meaningful way. Watch this week's conversation as recorded on Ballard Designs YouTube. What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate, the Podcast 00:36 Meet Elaine Griffin 01:16 ‘Design Rules’: The Timeless Guidebook for Home Decoraters 02:18 Practical Tips for Home Decor 15:47 The E

This week, the ladies get a first-hand look into the captivating world of custom hand-painted wallpaper with guest Jenn Gracie: a 6th generation member of the esteemed Gracie Wallpaper family. Our conversation revolves around the firm's newly published book 'The Art of Gracie,’ the first-ever book and inside look at the history, design process, and continuing legacy of Gracie Wallpaper. Listeners will explore the transition from antique to bespoke wallpaper designs, the rigorous training of artists, and the specialized skills required to create these intricate works. The episode also covers the challenges and joys of curating photography for historic wallpaper, preserving antique designs, and the strategic process of capturing room installations. Watch this week's conversation as recorded on Ballard Designs YouTube. What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  00:00 Introduction 00:34 Meet Jennifer Gracie: A Legacy of Craftsmanship 01:34 The Gracie Family Business: A Historical Overview 03:42 Personal Stori

Following last week's episode, Caroline shares the second half of her extended conversation with renowned architect and interior designer Ben Pentreath. The two continue their discussion of Ben's latest book, 'An English Vision', as well as practical decorating tips for making your house feel like your home. Watch our FULL INTERVIEW with Ben Pentreath now on YouTube: CLICK HERE What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  00:00 - Introduction 00:34 - Continuing Our Conversation with Ben Pentreath: Part Two 00:52 - Ben shares his insights on how to harmoniously blend architecture and decoration in design. 05:42 - Ben and Caroline discuss a wide array of different decoration styles and what makes each so unique. 08:51 - Ben discusses the deeper philosophy behind decorating and why planning for longevity matters. 12:37 - Why adding personal touches to your decor can make all the difference in creating a home! 20:59 - Ben breaks down the distinct characteristics of English and American styles and what sets them a

This week, Caroline hosts the show solo with renowned architect and interior designer Ben Pentreath. The two delve into Ben's extensive career, current design projects, and then discuss Ben's latest book, 'An English Vision.' Ben gives insights on common design challenges, the thought processes behind sustainable urban planning, and the architectural principles guiding his work in classic English designs. The conversation also touches on the integration of modern technologies within traditional architecture and how design choices impact community and environmental sustainability. Watch our FULL INTERVIEW with Ben Pentreath now on YouTube: CLICK HERE What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  00:00 - Introduction 00:33 - Get Ready for a Special Two-Part Series! 01:04 - Discover Ben Pentreath’s design journey plus how he fell in love with architecture. 02:32 - Writing a Book: Hear about the joys and hurdles Ben faced while penning his book. It’s a journey of passion and perseverance! 04:36 - Ben shares he

This week, we welcome designers Ellie Cullman and Lee Cavanaugh from the iconic design firm Cullman & Kravis, who discuss their latest book, 'Cullman and Kravis Interiors.' Although "Cullman & Kravis Interiors" is technically the fourth book from designer Ellie Cullman, it is the first book that showcases her own firm's approach to blending traditional and contemporary styles. Ellie and Lee emphasize their passion for reflecting client interests, location, and functionality in their designs, and they also share insights about the importance of cohesive coloring and the ‘alchemy of old and new’ in creating vibrant living spaces. Watch this week's conversation as recorded on Ballard Designs YouTube. What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  00:00 Introduction 00:33 Meet Our Guests: Ellie Cullman and Lee Cavanaugh 01:58 The Unique Cullman and Kravis Aesthetic 03:58 Designing for Function and Comfort 05:15 Interactive Design Process 13:43 Collaborative Design and Client Interaction 20:48 Adapting Designs for

Join Caroline, Taryn, and Liz for another exciting round of Trials and Triumphs! Liz shares her recent adventure in helping her sister transform a mudroom and laundry room with stunning color palettes and tile choices. She also recounts a nerve-wracking experience with malfunctioning hardwired fire alarms that led to a chaotic visit from firefighters. Taryn raises the stakes with a gripping story of her in-laws’ home flooding from a broken valve while they were watching her kids. The trio also delights in sharing their latest home decor finds, including Caroline's enthusiasm for shiny new metallic glass orbs and Taryn's beautiful ceramics from Greece. Tune in for inspiration and a few laughs! What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate 00:35 The Laundry Room Makeover 05:27 Liz's Unexpected Fire Alarm Drama 15:16 Taryn's Water Damage Nightmare 19:06 Ice Machine Woes and Solutions 20:37 Insurance and Home Repairs 21:07 Drapery Dilemmas and Triumphs 22:12 Greek Ceramics and Sho

This week, we welcome artist and tastemaker Josh Young. After living in Milan for six years, Josh returned to the U.S. and launched Josh Young Design House in 2017, gaining recognition for his distinctive art style and home designs. His work has appeared in major publications such as Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, and Vogue Italia. In his debut book, Artful Home, Josh takes us through his artistic journey, his homes, and his creative process for blending modern and classical elements. In our convo, Josh shares how his European experience shaped his design philosophy and offers fantastic tips for curating a stylish, balanced home. What You’ll Hear On This Episode:   Josh’s journey from a small town in Pennsylvania to studying art in Milan and how this experience influenced his design approach. His debut book, Artful Home, and how it explores five artistic principles: palette, texture, form, nostalgia, and layers. How the book process helped him crystallize the connection between his art and home decor

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Stephanie Nass—also known as "Chefanie"—who shares her expertise in hosting unforgettable gatherings. As a chef, host extraordinaire, and author, Stephanie has organized parties for a wide range of guests, from celebrities to royals. Her new book, "Swing By: Entertaining Recipes and the New Art of Gathering," provides a playful guide for throwing themed parties with flair. Join us as Stephanie discusses her journey into entertaining, the development of her brand, and practical tips for hosting parties that are both elaborate and approachable. What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  Where Stephanie's love of entertaining came from and how she got started doing it on her own. Her experience as the social chair in college and how it helped her practice and hone her hosting skills. How Stephanie's brand "Chefanie" evolved from a catering business. Stephanie's concept of "maximalism" and how her guests react to her highly coordinated and themed parties. The different l

We are thrilled to announce a NEW House Tour on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel, available now! This time, Caroline travels to Perry, Georgia to visit the calm and custom-built cottage home of acclaimed designer & author James Farmer. Caroline and James explore his design philosophy, touching on how the surrounding environment influences his choices, his favorite colors and materials, and his approach to blending antiques with modern comforts. James also shares insights into creating indoor coziness, setting up inviting guest spaces, and the evolution of outdoor decor. Throughout, he emphasizes the importance of confidence in design, saying that creating a positively personal, unapologetic style lays the foundation for a welcoming home. Want to see this beautiful home with your own eyes? WATCH NOW on YouTube! What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Special Guest: James Farmer 01:43 Building Farmdale: A Labor of Love 03:07 Designing with Nature in Mind 05:11 Interior Evolution an

Besides having one of the best names in design, Cathy Purple Cherry is known for her uniquely holistic approach to design, embodying the ability to meet both the lifestyle and emotional needs of clients. In her first book, The Design of a Country Estate, Cathy offers a deeper look at the creation of a magnificent estate and working farm on the Chesapeake Bay. In our chat with Cathy, she shares insights into building her firm from the ground up, the creation of a magnificent country estate on the Chesapeake Bay, and the philosophy into her thoughtful, human-centric design process that has defined her decades-long career. What You’ll Hear On This Episode:  Cathy's firm founding journey and distinctive name story. How her firm has grown since opening in 1993. What made her write her first book about a single project? Cathy shares a timeline of the Chesapeake Bay estate project, which took about 5 years from start to finish. Her personal experiences and influences in design philosophy, including raising a

This week we welcome back Baton Rouge-based interior designer Rachel Cannon, who reminds us that our home is our space and we can (and should) design it specifically for our personal needs! Rachel shares her philosophy on designing for introverts and creating quiet spaces in homes. She discusses the importance of traditional floor plans and the impact of the pandemic on home design, and introduces her new venture, RCL Organizing. Rachel also offers insights on balancing open and closed spaces, designing for individual needs, and the challenges of organizing a home for longevity. What You’ll Hear On This Episode Rachel's philosophy on designing for introverts and creating quiet spaces in homes. The benefits of traditional floor plans over open concept designs. Introduction to Rachel's new venture, RCL Organizing, and its focus on integrating organization into the design process. The importance of understanding clients' habits and preferences when designing spaces. Beautiful ways to store and organize bea

Let’s catch up with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz in a long-overdue Trials and Triumphs episode! Despite Taryn’s computer acting up, she marches forward with the search for the perfect fabric for her bedroom drapery and shares her latest DIY project covering IKEA frames with fabric to create a personalized gallery wall. Liz gets crafty in the kitchen to cover her windows in a charming, vintage-inspired way, while Caroline celebrates the addition of some super cute new lighting including a pink scalloped lamp shade that’s too adorable. The ladies also shares their tips and tricks for keeping those gorgeous fiddle leaf fig trees alive and thriving.  What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:36 Trials and Triumphs: Taryn's Frustrations 01:41 Fabric Choices and Home Updates 05:50 DIY Projects and Crafting Tips 15:53 Liz's Neighbor and Drapery Dilemmas 20:33 Charming Window Treatments 22:32 Painting Projects and Color Choices 24:54 Lampshade Updates and Trends 28:06 Indoor

This week we're joined by a return guest, Nashville-based designer Jonathan Savage of Savage Interior Design. Jonathan takes us on a journey through his design philosophy and experiences, as showcased in his beautiful newest book "The Savage Style." He also talks more about his approaching projects focusing on both function and aesthetics, his love for shopping and favorite places, and how he balances traditional and modern elements in his designs. Jonathan also shares some great tips on styling consoles, editing spaces, and creating impactful black-and-white interiors. What You’ll Hear On This Episode Jonathan's background and how his style has evolved since our last conversation in 2017. Insights into the process of creating his first book, "The Savage Style” and the inspiration behind that gorgeous book jacket! Jonathan's approach to shopping for design elements and his favorite places to find unique pieces. More about the dance of function and aesthetics when designing. The importance of contrast