This week, we're getting romantic and welcoming style director of Garden & Gun Haskell Harris to talk all about her newest book The House Romantic. We’ve long admired Haskell’s work at Garden & Gun and are thrilled to talk to her about curating a space that reflects your life experience and individual flair. Haskell also gives some great ideas for injecting soul and personal significance into your home environment, how to let perfectionism go, and why a pop of color just puts us in a good mood. Haskell talks about the process of creating her book and picking the right kindred spirits to showcase.
Follow along with this week's decorating dilemma here.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

The inspiration behind writing  The House Romantic.


Choosing homes and individuals that approach decorating with soul, thought, and intellectual curiosity.

More about the “kindred spirits” that are the subject of Haskell’s interviews in The House Romantic.


Haskell’s love of finding young and undiscovered talent.

Creating an authentic home environment free from the pressure of perfectionism or comparison.

Dividing the book into chapters and pillars based on design elements like comfort, authenticity, and personal flair.

We talk about some current design trends in the US and the UK.

Haskell talks about the photography in The House Romantic and the intention to capture the homes as if you were going over for a cup of coffee.

Haskell believes that the home is meant to be a spot where the brain and body can rest up and charge for the next day out in the world.

Also Mentioned:

Ballard Designs

The House Romantic: Curating Memorable Interiors for a Meaningful Life

@haskellharris

Garden & Gun

Decorating Dilemma:  
Hi Katie! 
Thank you so much, we also have a giant overthinker here too. Haskell’s first suggestion that we agree with is that a desk could give you a great place to rest and write. Then, we would suggest adding an accent chair to the space between the L-shaped sectional and the wall. A smaller, more compact chair would likely fit well in that area without making the space feel too crowded.
As for scale, we would recommend choosing a chair that is proportionate to the size of the sectional so that it looks balanced in the space. A large, oversized chair may overwhelm the area. Positioning the chair at an angle, as suggested, could work nicely to draw the eye into that part of the room. Placing the chair near the bookshelves could help direct attention to that focal wall as well. Testing out options by borrowing chairs from other rooms first could help determine what works best for the overall flow and layout.
Overall the space looks large enough to accommodate a chair without issues. Filling that empty area would balance out the room and make the seating arrangement feel more complete. Thanks and good luck!

Ep. 351: The House Romantic with Haskell Harris

This week, we catch up on all our trials and triumphs that have been collecting since before the holiday season. We talk about our paint color powerpoints, water-related issues, learning from our mistakes to plan ahead, and the beauty of a delicious home-cooked meal. We get updates on Taryn’s basement renovation, which leads to a conversation about the challenges that often come with big DIY projects.
Ballard Designs

Ep. 350: Trials and Triumphs

This week, we welcome back legendary interior designer Bunny Williams. In preparation of her new book Life in the Garden to release in March 2024, Bunny generously shares some great tips on planning successful gardens from starting small to considering ongoing maintenance.
Bunny also offers advice for novice gardeners, including prioritizing manageable tasks, plant care, pot selection, and using garden structures to enhance outdoor spaces. Get ready to be inspired to spend some time outdoors! 
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

What inspired Bunny to make Life in the Garden. 


How a plan in your garden can help you stay organized and on track. 

Bunny shares memories of growing up in Virginia and how it shaped her approach to hospitality and entertaining. 

Great advice for novice gardeners. 

All about plant care and keeping your garden healthy and beautiful. 

How to find the right pot for your plant. 

Ornamentation and structure is such a huge part of your garden. 

What Bunny’s planting season looks like. 

The logistics of garden photography. 

Where Bunny sources her plants and garden materials. 


Mentioned:

Ballard Designs

Website 

IG

Life in the Garden 


Decorating Dilemma: 
Follow along with this week's decorating dilemma here.
Hi Wendy! 
First off, you have a beautiful house. Bunny suggests adding a large wool or area rug to define the space and make it extra cozy. Arranging a pair of comfortable wingback chairs on either side of the fireplace with an ottoman or bench between them for extra seating will draw attention to the fireplace rather than block the view. 
You could also consider small sofas or built-in banquettes along the walls for additional seating options
Placing furniture in this space will help utilize it beyond just a pass-through, connecting it more to the living room area. A rug, chairs and ottoman/bench would make it a lovely sitting space to enjoy the fireplace from. Installing flush mount light fixtures rather than fluorescent lights can provide softer, more attractive lighting in areas like the kitchen and back hallway. Finally, moving the dining room table to the center of the space rather than against the window seat can improve the low and use of the dining area. 

Ep. 349: Life in the Garden with Bunny Williams

Award-winning architect and best-selling author Gil Schafer joins us this week to discuss his beautiful third book, “Home at Last”. Gil shares the inspiration behind his new work, along with a behind-the-scenes look of a few of the featured homes. Gil discusses some ways to blend styles and design homes that stand the test of time, advice for creating spaces that foster family memories, and how to think out of the box without being too gimmicky. Gil is one of the most sought-after architects of the last two decades because of his authenticity, his impeccable style, and his practical approach to designing the house of your dreams.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

Gil shares how personal experiences like marriage and the pandemic shaped his perspective between books.

How we can create our “forever homes” to adapt to changing needs over time.

Tips for considering landscape architecture early in the design process.

Some of the unique stories behind projects featured in Home at Last.

Ideas for updating a bedroom and sitting room combination space.

The importance of blending architectural styles to create classic designs. 

Why Gil says he’s allergic to gimmicks!

If you are able to, it’s helpful to have an architect or landscape designer evaluate the land before purchasing it to make sure the house can be built safely and efficiently.

More about the beautiful English Country home and its gorgeous stairwell.

What emotional pieces and places have affected Gil’s personal style and served as inspiration?

Mentioned:
Ballard Designs
Gil Schafer
IG
Home At Last
Decorating Dilemma: 
Thank you for writing in! Gil has some great suggestions to help modernize and tie in the bedroom with the sitting room spaces. First, consider installing custom built-in cabinetry across the nook area. This can help you better organize the space and allow the TV to be lowered to a more comfortable viewing height. Larger scaled lamps on either end of the built-ins would also help make the space feel more intentional. Slipcovering the green velvet chairs in a clean, white fabric may appeal to your husband's more modern taste while keeping one chair to balance the space. Use a folding screen around the desk area to conceal electronics and cords in a neat yet removable way for when the space is used as an office. Hang the bedroom curtains on a high-mounted rod to make the most of the tall ceilings and draw the eye up. Layering patterns would help tie the space together. Replace the carpet with jute or sisal for a softer, flatter surface, and layer area rugs on top to highlight the antique rug. And finally, add artwork around the television after it's lowered to make that wall feel more integrated into the space. Best of luck, and keep us updated!

Ep. 348: Home at Last with Gil Schafer

We are joined this week by Megan Molten, Charleston interior designer and shop owner. Megan is known for her modern, light, and airy design sense, where she effortlessly mixes feminine and masculine elements together for a balanced and clean result. Megan talks with us about learning how to take bigger risks, how to embrace your coastal style, and ways to incorporate pattern and color through accessories like vases and artwork.
Follow along with this week's decorating dilemma here.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

Megan took a leap of faith and left her corporate career in sales to start her business after encouragement from friends and sharing her design work on social media.

Why would Megan say “no” to a white sofa?!

Take a deep breath - couch colors are important, but not life or death decisions.

Tips for mixing metals.

Want to change your artwork around? Look for affordable options for framing.

What are some of the elements of coastal design?

How Megan learned to take more risks with clients in bolder and darker choices.

Some out-of-the-box coastal design accessories and ideas that aren’t your typical seashell.

Designing vacation homes in Charleston with a minimalist approach that is also cozy and inviting. 

Finding that “wow” factor piece in your main spaces.

How to build accessories into your budget.

Mentioned:

Ballard Designs

Megan Molten

@meganmolten 

Decorating Dilemma: 
Hi Chrissy! What a cool job to be a personal chef, and we love your vibe. You have a great base already, so here are some of our suggestions. First, we would take the track lighting down and drop a second chandelier over your sitting area. Megan loves the idea of the ceiling detail, possibly in a natural wood tone.
Consider adding in a pair of lamps on the buffet table to bring in some of the brass accents.
We love the idea of skylights and keeping the low lighting, but agree with no recessed lighting.
As for the window in the living room, we would hang the drapery panels as high and wide as you can, and make sure you do drapery hooks and rings. In an effort to not make things too “matchy-matchy”, we would not do sconces that have drum shades like the lamp but instead would do something more contrasting.

Ep. 347: Coastal Style with Megan Molten

It’s all about trends this week as we forecast what will be “in” for 2024, and what things we are happy to leave behind in last year. We are joined by Will and Hillary, both part of the product design team at Ballard Designs, who are on the frontlines of seeing all the upcoming trends in design. We discuss the resurgence of classic colors navy blue, the growing interest in environmentally conscious design, and the emergence of new trends like celestial yellow and pink. We also chat about materials used in furniture making, with a focus on personalization and blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living.

Watch the full video version of this week's episode now on YouTube.

What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

Is beige no longer the go-to neutral?

The trend alert for finishes, wallpaper, patterns, trims, and color.

Will the explosion of soft colors carry over in 2024?

The trend of bringing nature indoors through plants, materials, and decor.

A few of our favorite “trendy” color patterns.

The use of natural materials like bamboo, wicker, and even mushroom leather helps expand our eco-friendly options.

How technology is also helping design - hello mosquito repelling drapery!

What are some on-trend items that surprise us to the core?

A few of the trends we are over and feel are so oversaturated.

Also Mentioned:

Ballard Designs

Coloro: The Design Color System

WGSN: Industry Trend Forecaster


Please send in your questions and decorating dilemmas to podcast@ballarddesigns.net so we can answer them on our next episode!
 

Ep. 346: 2024 Trend Report

This week, Taryn shares the update from building her dream house from the ground up. She shares her own trials and triumphs throughout the process, how she keeps things organized, and what she wishes she did differently. This is a great listen if you are already in the process of a big renovation, or if you have future plans for taking on a big project. Stay tuned for more of Taryn’s home journey! 
See pictures of Taryn's house build here on the How to Decorate blog.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

Why did Taryn and her family decide to tear up the house and rebuild in the same location? 

How Taryn made sure she got those big windows and a gorgeous street view in the kitchen. 

Taryn’s plan vs. the architect's plan, and using 3D software for layout. 

What Taryn loves including her driveway, paint choices and those bold colored cabinets. 

Surprises Taryn encountered throughout the way, such as the plumbing fixtures taking a long time! 

What’s next for the big project? 

How Taryn decided on certain finishes, trim and materials. 

Designing the home with a layout that will work with the family as things evolve and children grow up. 

Storage solutions that have made her space more functional. 

The importance of clear communication between you and the architect. 


Mentioned:
Ballard Designs

Please send in your questions and decorating dilemmas so we can answer them on our next episode! 

Ep. 345: Taryn’s House Journey

We welcome New York designer, David Frazier, known for his warm modernist interiors and place-based architecture. Originally from West Point, Georgia, David attended Auburn School of Architecture before moving to New York, where he designed spaces for his clients in New York, the Hamptons, Connecticut, Colorado, and throughout the South. David shares some great advice for using neutrals in a way that suits your aesthetic and design dreams. He talks about why he gravitates towards neutrals, some of his favorite shades to use to warm up a room, and how to give neutrals the same energy as colors and patterns.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

Neutrals don’t have to be boring!

A neutral interior can give your mind and eyes a chance to rest.

David shares some of his favorite neutral shades to work with.

How to weave color in with neutrals while still keeping that calm and comforting tone.

Using textures and layers to keep neutrals exciting.

David’s love of playing with scale to add a bit of drama and excitement into spaces.

How David’s background in architecture informs his design work. 

How to overcome the storing challenges that often come with art and antiques.

The magical transformation of a laundry room in the Palm Beach showroom. 


Mentioned:

Ballard Designs

David Frazier 

@davidfrazierco 



Decorating Dilemma: 
Hi Caitlin! So, David likes the idea of just using one sofa. He would probably eliminate the apartment sofa. Great floor lamps on the table would serve as a great anchor between the sofa and two chairs. Then, he would do a club chair and an ottoman in the opposite corner. Ideally, the sofa would be about the length of that picture window, with the back of the sofa about the height of the windowsill.
You know we love playing with scale too, so you could use both online tools and move the furniture around to see how you like it and how it feels in the space. Best of luck and keep us updated!

Ep. 344: Neutrals with David Frazier

More than any other topic, we're constantly getting questions about paint -- how to pick it the right one? What are the best colors? Which finish to use? We're answering all of your questions with today's guest, interior designer Fran Keenan. We're big fans of Fran's work, and she was a guest on episode 83. She's always picking bold, saturated color in her design work, so we thought she'd be the perfect designer to chat with us about one of the trickiest elements of design, paint. In Part 1 of this two part series, we're talking about picking colors.
What You'll Hear on This Episode:

We talk about why paint she be the last thing you choose in a room

Questions you should ask before you pick paint colors like, what is the narrative?

Paint is the easiest thing to change

Light is a huge factor in how your paint and your furnishings will appear in your room

Picking paint when you have a new build

Testing samples, how many to test and where to test them

Why paint should be the answer to questions about the tempo and vibe of your room

What it means for a paint to have 'age'

Should all of your paint colors across your house look good together?

We'll cover more paint FAQs and more in next week's episode

We talk a lot about 'nuance' and what that means in paint


Show Notes:

Fran Keenan Design

Ep. 83 with Fran Keenan

Ep. 343: Decorating Throwback: Picking Paint Colors with Fran Keenan

We are thrilled to welcome back Peter Pennoyer, a world-renowned architect, whose eponymous architecture firm has helped redefine New York’s architecture specializing in new construction, renovation, and preservation of residential, commercial, and institutional projects around the world. Peter talks to us about his recent monograph of the firm’s work, Peter Pennoyer Architects: City | Country. He also discusses the different projects within the book, why people shouldn’t be intimidated by plans, the beauty of working with different designers, and preservation and sustainability in architecture. At the end of the episode, Peter helps us give some advice to a listener who is looking for some decorating help with her gorgeous farmhouse. 
What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 

How Peter chose the projects featured in his late book collection to showcase the diversity of talent, locations, and work.

Peter describes a project where two townhouses were combined and how they solved the puzzle of having different floors and windows.

Designing the home tailored to the family’s individual needs.

Creating a book that everyone can get something out of, even in the “Wes Anderson” portion of the collection.

The importance of clients understanding their floor plan and feeling comfortable throughout the process.

The benefits of using both hand drawings and digital tools to understand and capture scale.

A few of the many resources where homeowners can go and learn about the history of their home.

Wait - a private treasure chest?!

Sustainability as a starting point.

Priorities in design in the kitchen, when it comes to lighting and taking into account the overall economy of the whole home.


Mentioned In This Episode: 

Ballard Designs

Peter Pennoyer 

Peter Pennoyer on IG 

Peter Pennover Architect: City | Country 

﻿
Decorating Dilemma 
Hi Alana, and thank you so much for writing! Peter first suggests maximizing the French door wall with stacks of curtains between each set of doors, creating an impactful improvement. Raise the curtain rod higher on this wall, leaving a section of darker-painted wall above the doors to visually connect, giving the illusion of longer curtains. Opt for a continuous curtain rod floating above, ensuring it doesn't impede door functionality. Additionally, choose an adjustable rod for convenience, allowing curtains to be easily moved aside when using specific doors.
On the wall with valances, install two-inch wood blinds with colored tape, harmonizing with the wood around the French doors. Consider heavy lining for winter months, providing insulation and a cozy atmosphere. Use drapery pins instead of conventional methods for easy maintenance and a neat appearance. Embrace the scenic farm view by keeping curtains open, and explore the flexibility of wood blinds for light control. Thank you so much, and how wonderful to be on a farm and enjoy all the greenery!

Ep. 342: City & Country Architecture with Peter Pennoyer

We welcome Los Angeles based interior designer and writer David Netto this week. David’s work has been featured in Vogue, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and many more. David is on the AD100 list, and has also written about the history of architecture and ensign for the Wall Street Journal and New York Times Style Magazine and is now a contributing editor for Town and Country. In our conversation, we talk with David about his inspiration for design, and his gorgeous new self-titled book. David shares more about how he creates a furniture plan, his love of the dramatic in design, and he shares a few practical tips for creating elegance in your home.  
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

David’s father owned the historic fabric house, Cowtan & Tout. 

From an early age, David had an appetite and appreciation for theater in decor, and combining the modern with antique. 

How and why a slightly unfinished look can be elegant. 

Using chairs like chess pieces in design. 

A few of David’s other versatile tools to make rooms like artsy, dramatic and bohemian. 

How a cooking star influenced David’s self-titled book. 

Storytelling is the foundation of good decorating. 

How David starts creating a furniture plan. 

Afraid of a beautiful chocolate brown wall? Don’t be! 

What David looks for when choosing fabric or upholstery. 

East vs. West coast design. 

The importance of having a team of greatly skilled people who can play up to your own strengths. 


Also Mentioned: 

Ballard Designs

David Netto Design 

David Netto IG 

David Netto monograph 

﻿
Decorating Dilemma: 
Thank you for writing in, Rachel! First, David is going to dream. In a world where construction is possible, we would cut that window straight ahead down to the floor and turn it into a French window that has a railing. In reality though, David would demolish the bookcases on the left and right, and retain them just at the end.  He would invest in four clipped bookcase lights (there’s a store in London that he loves for this) and some nice paint. Also, David would paint the floor with high gloss paint! Something to keep in mind and put on your list, if you agree! 

Ep. 341: Storytelling in Decorating with David Netto

Watch this week's episode on our YouTube channel here. 
It’s our annual holiday edition of trials and triumphs, where we dive headfirst into the festive spirit and let off some holiday steam! This week, we spill the beans on our wins and challenges, from daydreaming about a pristine, white house to rescuing flowers from frostbite and crafting an enchanting indoor winter garden. Of course, we can't forget the super-adulting activities that add to the overall holiday magic, including the dreaded fridge clean-out. And, of course, we'll be sharing our secret recipes for achieving the perfect Christmas lights and decking out the most splendid tree in town. It's our way of spreading the holiday cheer and embracing the merry chaos that comes with it!
Also Mentioned:
Ballard Designs

Ep. 340: Trials and Triumphs

Our guests this week are Emma Bazilian and Stephanie Diaz, the authors of Charm School: The Schumacher Guide to Traditional Decorating for Today. Emma is a designer, writer, editor, and content director at F. Schumacher & Co. Stephanie is the art director at F. Schumacher & Co. In our chat, they talk about the path that led them to work together and the research and organization that went into Charm School. We discuss the balance between traditional and modern elements and the fun of identifying and incorporating small touches of traditional decorating throughout the design process.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

The origins of the “grand millennial” movement.

How Emma and Stephanie learned to appreciate different styles yet still focus on their individual strengths.

The process of how Charm School mixes archival images with present-day designers and how they found a balance to showcase both the traditional and modern.

We take a trip down memory lane and remember some of our favorite memories of childhood bedrooms.

Why it’s cool to embrace the “uncool” elements of design, such as matching, but not to go too overboard.

The appeal of canopy beds and bed skirts.

A special bonus? When your home decor can help you hide something.

The doll collection that is still very much remembered in the present day.

Tips for bringing in handmade and bespoke design elements that tell a story and reflect your personal touch.

Emma and Stephanie’s predictions for the future of design trends.


Also Mentioned This Episode:

Ballard Designs


Charm School (Full Book)


Schumacher

Nancy Braithwaite article where she used matelasse fabric to cover chairs in her living room. 


Please send in your questions and decorating dilemmas to podcast@ballarddesigns.net so we can answer them on our next episode!

Ep. 339: Grand Millenial Decorating with Emma Bazilian and Stephanie Diaz

It’s all about flower power this week as we welcome award-winning artist and fashion illustrator, Cathy B. Graham. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Rolling Stone, New York Magazine, and more. Cathy has been a contributing editor to House Beautiful and Elle Decor. In our conversation with Cathy, we talk about the inspiration behind her recently released second book, Full Bloom: Joyful Designs for the Table. She gives us her expert tips on everything, from finding the perfect flowers for your event, to picking unexpected trinkets and additions that delight you, expanding your color palette, and creative table setting ideas. 
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

How Cathy got into floral design from a background in fashion illustration.

A few of the many things Cathy learned from working with the late floral designer and event planner, Robert Isabell.

Yes, even those who aren’t super artistic can learn about floral design and arrangements and surprise themselves!

More about Cathy’s beautiful arrangements on plates and tablescapes.

Simple ways to use florals to create the mood in your home or event.

Flower arranging techniques and vase selection.

How soon before an event should you buy flowers?

Pairing flowers within a color family for beautiful arrangements.

Adding unique elements like fruits and vegetables to create textured arrangements.

Let your imagination run wild! If you like a bit of shine and sparkle, don’t be afraid to add things like glitter, garland, and trinkets that make you happy.

Some of Cathy’s favorite house plants.


Mentioned: 

Ballard Designs

Cathy B. Graham

@cathygraham

Full Bloom

Second Bloom

 
Please send in your questions and decorating dilemmas to podcast@ballarddesigns.net so we can answer them on our next episode!

Ep. 338: Floral Designs for the Table with Cathy B. Graham

Simon Upton, celebrated as one of the world's leading interior photographers, has spent the past 25 years capturing the work of the foremost interior designers. His work has been featured in The World of Interiors, Elle Decor, Architectural Digest, Vogue, House and Garden and more. In 2021, he published his first book, New York Interiors, and in September, he released his second book, London Living. In our conversation with Simon, he talks about the process behind his beautiful mastery of sharing the story of each homeowner, and the uniqueness of the different homes and stories that the spaces had to tell. Simon talks about the difference in his photography for London Living vs. an editorial magazine shoot, and why it was important to him to tell an honest story of London through his eyes. 
What You’ll Here On This Episode:

How Simon got into interior photography. 

The importance of strong visuals in storytelling. 

Simon’s process for the homes and rooms he featured in London Living. 


Simon’s passion for scouting new locations and building relationships with those new friends. 

Were the rooms styled? 

Tips for getting the most out of your lighting for a photography shoot, and why it may be a good thing that it’s overcast! 

The importance of passion in making a house feel like a home. 

His Zen approach to appreciating and enjoying homes but not coveting them. 

Learning to embrace your own individual style. 

A tease for his next book in the making. 


Also Mentioned: 

Ballard Designs

Simon Upton 

London Living  

@simonupton  


Please send in your questions and decorating dilemmas to podcast@ballarddesigns.net so we can answer them on our next episode!
 

Ep. 337: London Living with Simon Upton

We're thrilled to be joined by design historian and author Emily Eerdmans, who opens up about her insights on the legendary decorator Mario Buatta (a.k.a. the Prince of Chintz). Emily first talks about the process of writing Mario Buatta: Anatomy of a Decorator, and how it’s different from Mario Buatta: Fifty Years of American Interior Decoration. And, yes, Mario fans should have both books in their collection. 
Emily then takes us through the fascinating journey of Mario, a trailblazer who incorporated personal branding into his design work, seamlessly adapted the English country house style to suit the American market, and crafted stunning designs using color and antiques. We dive deep into the heart of Mario’s design mantra with Emily, understanding the role of the four C's: chintz, curtains, color, and collections. 

What You'll Hear This Episode:

How Mario’s humble roots played into his design. 

Why it’s so important for the next generation of designers to remember this icon. 

The four C’s: chintz, curtains, color and collections. 

 The power of design history and how it shapes our choices when creating timeless spaces. 

More about Mario’s ingenious use of color and antiques to create mesmerizing designs. 

Some of the challenges in writing an intimate biography and working with strong personalities. 

The importance of curtains in modern apartments. 

Mario's love for the English country house style. 


Also Mentioned: 

Ballard Designs

Emily Eerdmans

Mario Buatta: Anatomy of a Decorator 

Mario Buatta: Fifty Years of American Interior Decoration 


﻿Please send in your questions and decorating dilemmas to podcast@ballarddesigns.net so we can answer them on our next episode!

Ep. 336: The Life of Mario Buatta with Author Emily Eerdmans

Ribbons and garland and mistletoe, oh my! This week, we talk all about fall decor and transitioning from Thanksgiving to Christmas in Part 2 of our 2023 Holiday Hosting Q&A. We share our favorite traditions and how they have evolved over the years, when we start to put the turkey themed items away and put up the tree, and our favorite things from smaller ornaments to large decorations. We also get into some gift wrapping techniques (that even your dog will love), where to score some beautiful garland and mistletoe, and advice for creating a cohesive look in your holiday festivities. 
Watch along with this week's episode here on the Ballard Designs official YouTube channel.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

How our holiday decor has evolved over the years. 

Kid-friendly holiday craft ideas that involve the whole family. 

Must-do’s for a beautiful ribbon that won’t be a hassle to work with. 

What we’re adding in our Christmas collection this year, including gorgeous wreaths and Garnet Hill Mistletoe. 

How to match your wrapping paper with your holiday decor - it’s possible! 

Mixing modern vs traditional Christmas decor. 

Okay, really how long should we keep the pumpkin for? 

Great tips and tricks for holiday entertaining. 


Mentioned in This Episode:
Ballard Designs

Ep. 335: Holiday Decorating and Hosting Q&A (Part 2)

It’s a fun episode this week as we get ready for all things holiday. From large holiday parties to intimate festivities, we answer your questions about food, decor and hosting. We discuss how to set a beautiful table for the holidays, great food and drink that will wow your guests without costing a fortune, and setting up your home to welcome guests. We also share our checklist for when expecting guests to stay over and why it’s always more fun at the kids table. 
Watch along with this week's episode here on the Ballard Designs official YouTube channel.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

Kids tables - yay or nay? And if yay, how to make them cute, decorative and easily cleanable after the inevitable mess has been made. 

Setting a beautiful table on a budget. 

Favorite dishes to bring to a holiday dinner. 

Flow of the party: pacing the meals out correctly and making sure everything is served in the right order and in time. 

Some suggestions for great table wine that won’t break the bank. 

Getting creative with seating that will make your guests feel social and comfortable. 

A check list of items to prepare for if you are expecting house guests. 


Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

 Bunny Williams 

Mr. T’s Pierogies 

Barefoot Contessa 

 

Ep. 334: Holiday Decorating and Hosting Q&A (Part 1)

We welcome Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller, a husband and wife power couple in the design world. For two decades they have designed chic, timeless, surprising spaces for their clients, some of whom you may recognize like Anna Wintour, Jessica Chastain, Annie Leibovitz, and more. They've been named to the prestigious AD100 list, and have been featured in publications like Town and Country, Vogue, House Beautiful and Architectural Digest. They've just recently released their second book, Defining Chic, and talk about embracing your personal take on luxury, designing for evolving families, and picking details that speak, scream or whisper.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

The inspiration for Defining Chic and why they chose the projects to showcase.

How to create micro-environments and why they start with public facing rooms.

Luxury doesn’t have to mean formal! In fact, they knock down the formality in homes with naturally welcoming materials.

The Brooklyn brownstone that exemplifies that high-low luxury feel.

How Jesse and Mara’s New York roots inform their design process.

Tips for tying together separate rooms to create a cohesive feeling amongst the house.

Ways to get your family and teens on board with defining chic - Pinterest and making sure they feel part of the process.

How to pick design elements that bring warmth and joy to your space.

What it was like designing Anna Wintour’s compound retreat.


Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

Defining Chic

Carrier and Company 

@carrierandco 


Decorating Dilemma:
Follow Along with this week's Decorating Dilemma here.
Thanks Jill! We have some ideas on how to achieve that harmonious and cohesive look you desire. First, for your flooring, Jesse and Mara suggest maintaining a consistent flooring material from your entryway through the dining room. This would involve replacing the existing laminate flooring with hardwood to match the wood floors in your entryway. This change can provide a more unified and visually appealing look.
Consider more tonal or cohesive wall paint colors, especially in open floor plans. Transitioning from one room color to the next with paler or deeper shades can create a sense of continuity and sophistication in your space.
To enhance the overall look and feel of your living area, adding a lighter rug in the living room may help create contrast with the dark cabinetry in the kitchen, along with introducing colorful cushions, accent chairs, or rugs to create a coordinated color scheme throughout the space.
If you’re concerned about the rectangular rug and sectional sofa layout, there is the possibility of a custom cut rug.
Jesse and Mara emphasize the importance of maintaining a consistent floor pattern in areas where the floor follows the shape of the island, or it has multiple angles. Hope this helps and keep us updated on how it goes!

Ep. 333: Defining Chic with Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller

It was design love at first sight for Janie Jones and Elizabeth Miles, the designers and founders of Birmingham-based Hundley Hilton Interiors. In this episode, they talk about meeting each other and how they inspire one another as a professional duo, tips for bringing new life to antiques, and creating a color palette that is timeless. Janie and Elizabeth share some tips for creating a beautiful and unique entertaining space, having patience for making big design shifts, and the beauty of being your own art collector.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

Where did the name Hundley Hilton come from?

Design tips to evoke formal flair, while still keeping it comfortable and welcoming.

Their own methods for designing room by room instead of piece by piece.

Working with colors that you love that will stand the test of time!

Janie and Elizabeth’s collaborative approach to design.

How to intentionally collect items you like.

Slow down when choosing furniture! When you make sure it’s worth the investment, it will be loved for years to come.

Tips for matching different patterns and colors when setting the table, and how to enjoy layering silverware with fine china and antique plates.


Mentioned in This Episode:

Ballard Designs

Hundley Hilton

 
Decorating Dilemma:
Hi Karen! Thank you so much for writing. So, as far as Janie and Elizabeth’s recommendations, it’s all about investing in unique lighting such as lamps and lampshades that can serve as a cost-effective way to add personality to your space. When it comes to furniture, consider a dining room table and chairs that can easily transition to a new home. You can experiment with colors on window trims and explore the use of Roman shades to enhance your windows without a significant investment. Art can truly transform any space and you can always find a spot for it, no matter the size of the artwork. Pairing antique lamps with a console may be a great idea to elevate your decor. And… as Janie and Elizabeth mentioned in the earlier conversation, art doesn’t have to be acquired all at once. Collecting them over time can be a rewarding experience.
About your sofa choices, an 86-inch size is a good way to go. It’s versatile and good with various room sizes. Opting for a queen-sized bed with a headboard can be a good touch of elegance while maintaining practicality. We are rooting for you!

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