How to Decorate

We are thrilled to welcome Ray Booth back to the podcast! Ray is an acclaimed interior designer, a partner at the award-winning firm McALPINE, and the author of the beautiful new book, The Expressive Home. Ray sits down with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to discuss how his background in architecture shapes every interior decision he makes. He shares why he views drapery as "punctuation," the optical illusion of black window mullions, and why he believes "editing is the key to happiness." Quick Decorating Takeaways: Drapery is Punctuation: Ray uses drapery not just for windows, but as "commas" in a room—creating pauses, dividing large spaces, and softening the acoustics to create intimacy in an otherwise "hard" architectural box. The "Eyeliner" Effect: When painting window mullions (the strips between glass panes), Ray prefers dark colors (black or bronze) over white. Dark mullions act like eyeliner—they frame the view and disappear to let the eye focus on the landscape, whereas white mullions stop the eye right at the glass. Hang Lighting for Humans, Not Ceilings: In rooms with double-height ceilings, resist the urge to hang chandeliers too high. Ray suggests hanging them lower—within the "human scale"—so they feel touchable and help ground people in a cavernous space. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Introduction 01:30 Ray’s architectural background and his "biased" approach to interiors 04:00 How to choose materials based on your personal story 10:00 Why Ray uses drapery as "punctuation" and acoustic softening 16:00 Building a neutral palette: Using contrast to create harmony 21:00 Window Mullions: Why dark paint makes the view clearer 25:00 The Art of Editing: "Just because you can, doesn't mean you should" 28:00 Ray’s take on AI in design (featuring a nod to Steve & Brooke Giannetti) 34:00 Human Scale: How to make grand rooms feel intimate 40:00 Lighting tips for high ceilings 44:00 The "Deconstructed Sectional": How to improve flow around large furniture 48:00 Closing notes & where to find Ray Also Mentioned: The Expressive Home by Ray Booth (New Book) Evocative Interiors by Ray Booth (Previous Book) McALPINE | Website Ray Booth Design | Instagram Steve & Brooke Giannetti Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is our favorite time of year: the 2026 Trend Report is here! Caroline, Taryn, and Liz are joined by the Ballard Designs Product Design Team—Hillary Park, and Will Turner—to break down exactly what is coming next in the world of interiors. The team reveals the surprising colors predicted to dominate (including "Green Glow" aka Slime and "Fresh Purple"), why "Builder Khaki" is making a nostalgic comeback, and the specific design aesthetic that bridges the gap between Gen Z and Boomers. They also discuss the move away from gray, the evolution of bouclé, and why your next gallery wall should feature "weird" personal art. Quick Decorating Takeaways: Brown is the New Black: Move over, cool grays. The team confirms that brown—from "Cocoa Powder" to "Builder Khaki"—is the dominant neutral for 2026. It pairs perfectly with the trending warm metals (like nickel) and "dirty" pastels. Embrace "Grandma Crafts": High-tech is out; analog is in. The trend of "Grandma Crafts" is huge, with needlepoint, embroidery, and paint-by-numbers becoming the ultimate way to unwind and decorate. Look for the "North Star": Celestial motifs are having a moment. Look for stars, moons, and zodiac themes in hardware, bedding, and fabrics as people seek direction and meaning in their homes. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome to the 2026 Trend Report 01:30 How the team predicts trends (Fashion Snoops, WGSN, Veranda) 04:45 The 5 Big Color Predictions: Transformative Teal, Wax Paper, Fresh Purple, Cocoa Powder, and Green Glow 06:30 The "Slime" Green debate and the board game Hues and Cues 11:00 The resurgence of Khaki and Ralph Lauren nostalgia 14:00 Cornflower Blue: The "Happy" color that isn't going anywhere 16:30 Metals: Why Nickel is overtaking Chrome 20:30 Paint Colors of the Year (Cloud Dancer, Warm Eucalyptus, hidden Gem) 23:00 Material Trends: Leather, colored stains, and the decline of shiny glam 26:00 Is Bouclé over? (Spoiler: It's evolving into skirts) 28:00 The "Nancy Meyers" Aesthetic vs. Maximalism 34:00 Pattern Trends: Lattice, Ribbons, and "Weird" Checks 41:30 Fun Micro-Trends: Cabbage Ware and "Vampire Core" (Oxblood) 43:00 Celestial motifs and the "North Star" theme 54:00 "Weird Art": Why you should frame cigarette packs and personal relics 58:00 The rise of "Grandma Crafts" Also Mentioned: Board Game: Hues and Cues Trend: Nancy Meyers Aesthetic Paint Color: Pantone "Cloud Dancer" Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are back with a classic "Trials & Triumphs" episode! After a long hiatus from sharing their own home updates (since August!), Caroline, Taryn, and Liz sit down to catch up on what has been happening behind their own front doors. The ladies discuss the highs and lows of homeownership, from Liz’s garage flood nightmare to Caroline’s victory over a builder-grade "boob light." Taryn gives a major update on her Facebook Marketplace bed project (spoiler: it’s finished!), and Caroline explains why she finally ditched her trendy jute rug for a vintage estate sale find. Quick Decorating Takeaways: Don't Fear the "Floater" Rug: Caroline shares her win with a vintage 8x11 rug. While 9x12 is the standard for living rooms, she explains that you can break the "all legs on" rule with a slightly smaller vintage piece as long as the front legs of your furniture anchor it comfortably. Spray It, Don't Brush It: Taryn confirms that for intricate furniture (like a spindle bed), a paint sprayer is non-negotiable. It saves hours of frustration compared to brushing and delivers a smooth, factory-like finish that makes DIY pieces look high-end. Upgrade the "Boob Light": It is the most common builder-grade eyesore, but swapping a flush mount is one of the easiest updates you can do. Caroline replaced hers in 20 minutes with a faux-alabaster fixture, instantly elevating her hallway for under $100. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Happy New Year! 01:30 Caroline’s Triumph: Scoring a vintage Turkish rug on EBTH.com 06:00 The "Jute vs. Wool" debate: Why wool is actually cleaner 09:00 Taryn’s Triumph: The $100 Facebook Marketplace bed is finished! 12:00 Painting Tips: Why you need a sprayer for spindles & the color reveal ("Stardew") 18:00 Liz’s Trial: A pipe burst and ceiling damage in the garage 22:00 Liz’s Triumph: Painting the front door "Tate Olive" 26:00 Caroline’s Triumph: Replacing the hallway "boob light" with an Amazon find 32:00 Taryn’s Trial: The struggle of finding bedding to match a blue bed 38:00 Closing thoughts & looking ahead to spring projects Also Mentioned: Everything But The House (Online Estate Sales) | ebth.com Paint Color: Sherwin Williams "Stardew" (Taryn's Bed) Paint Color: Benjamin Moore "Tate Olive" (Liz's Door) Paint Sprayer (Wagner) Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The ladies are ready to kick off 2026 with some ambitious decorating goals! In this special bonus episode, Caroline, Taryn, and Liz sit down to map out their home and personal resolutions for the year. They are putting their goals on the record now so they can hold themselves accountable in 2027. From tackling "treacherous" basements and organizing chaos closets to navigating the emotional transition of empty nesting, the hosts share the big projects they hope to tackle (and the budget realities holding them back). What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 01:30 Taryn’s Goal #1: Tackling the "treacherous" basement and finishing the gym  06:00 Taryn’s Goal #2: The emotional transition of a nursery into a guest room  08:00 The $100 Facebook Marketplace King Bed find  12:00 Caroline’s Goal #1: The Entryway Dilemma (Wallpaper vs. The Messy Closet)  16:00 Caroline’s Reupholstery List: Needlepoint footstools and worn-out linen  18:00 The universal struggle of organizing "junk drawers" with kids  20:00 Plant Goals: Keeping Fiddle Leaf Figs alive and planting Peonies  25:00 Liz’s Goal #1: Creating a "Home Maintenance" calendar  28:00 Liz’s Goal #2: Raised bed gardening and navigating shade trees  31:00 Liz’s Goal #3: Empty nesting and converting a teen bedroom into a home office  Also Mentioned: Plantopia (Book mentioned by Taryn)  Skylight Calendar  IKEA PAX Systems (for closet hacks)  Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The team is thrilled to welcome Meredith Page and Liz Livingston, the creative duo behind the Atlanta-based design firm Page House Studio. With a combined 15 years of experience in interiors and fashion, they joined forces in 2023 to create a studio that focuses on bespoke design and a curated collection of accessories—specifically, their signature pedestals. Meredith and Liz join Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to discuss how they transitioned from coworkers to business partners, the power of elevating everyday objects, and why "the edit" is the most crucial step in any design project. They share their secrets for creating dynamic vignettes, the importance of "triangulation" in styling, and why a pedestal is the missing ingredient your bookshelf needs. Quick Decorating Takeaways: Elevate with Pedestals: Give your small treasures and collectibles the importance they deserve by placing them on a pedestal. This adds instant height and architecture to a vignette, preventing small items from getting lost on a shelf or table.  Master "Triangulation": When styling a surface, visualize a triangle to guide your arrangement. Group items to create high and low points (the peaks and corners of the triangle) to establish a natural flow and rhythm for the eye.  Photograph to Edit: If a room feels cluttered or "off," take a photo of it with your phone. Viewing the space through a lens often highlights imbalances or clutter that your eye misses in person, helping you know exactly what to remove. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Introductions 01:00 Meredith & Liz’s origin story: From fashion styling to interior design 05:00 Why they launched a product line focused on pedestals 09:00 How to use pedestals to layer depth and height in shelves 13:00 The "Rule of Threes" vs. "Triangulation" in styling 18:00 Mixing materials: Acrylic, wood, and stone 24:00 The Art of the Edit: How to remove items to let a room breathe 30:00 Why you should treat your accessories like a "wardrobe" for your home 35:00 Decorating Dilemma: Styling a large, awkward coffee table 42:00 Tips for finding unique vintage pieces 58:00 Closing notes & where to find Page House Studio Also Mentioned: Page House Studio | Website  Follow them on Instagram: @pagehousestudio  Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're excited to welcome Seattle-based interior designer Lisa Staton to the show. With more than 20 years of experience, her firm is known for seamlessly blending current trends with timeless appeal to create spaces that feel both fresh and rooted in history. Lisa joins Taryn and Caroline to discuss her East Coast upbringing, how she navigates the "algorithm era" of design, and why she believes every room needs a mix of old and new. She shares her philosophy on "Soup and Symphony" design, how to choose the right white paint for your region, and why the house itself is always the first client. Quick Decorating Takeaways: Use the House as Your Guide: Let the home's original architecture be your "guiding life force" when renovating. Matching details like millwork to the original style creates a cohesive foundation, allowing for trendy updates without losing character.  Practice "Soup and Symphony": Focus on how all design elements work together rather than critiquing individual pieces. Like a soup or symphony, the magic lies in the harmonious blend of textures, colors, and furniture, not just the single ingredients.  Respect Your Region's Light: Choose paint colors based on your specific location's light, not just what looks good in photos. For example, the blue-toned light of the Pacific Northwest calls for warmer whites to avoid sterility, unlike a sun-drenched desert home.  What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Introductions 01:45 Lisa’s background: From Boston history to Sotheby’s art auctions 04:00 The "Algorithm Effect": How social media homogenizes design 06:00 Balancing high-end design with accessible updates 09:00 How to respect architecture without creating a "period piece" 11:00 Designing for location: Why a Cape Cod style doesn't always work in Arizona 13:00 The collaborative process and avoiding "reverse Google search" design 15:00 The "Soup and Symphony" analogy for cohesive interiors 19:00 Mixing traditional cabinetry with sleek, modern furniture 25:00 Designing for the Pacific Northwest: Coziness and light management 28:00 Lisa’s go-to white paints for different lights 31:00 Tips for choosing exterior paint colors 36:00 Decorating Dilemma: Updating a beige-on-beige rental apartment 44:00 Why you should embrace "weird" art and vintage finds 52:00 Closing notes & where to find Lisa Also Mentioned: Lisa Staton Design | Website Follow Lisa on Instagram: @lisastatondesign Paint Colors Mentioned: Sherwin Williams Alabaster, Benjamin Moore Simply White, Lancaster White, Swiss Coffee Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're excited to welcome husband-and-wife design duo Heather and Matt French to the show. Based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, their firm, French & French Interiors, is known for creating luxurious yet livable spaces that are rich in color, pattern, and storytelling. Heather and Matt join Caroline and Liz to discuss their unique journey from careers in natural medicine and building to becoming interior designers. They share how they blend their Southern roots with the distinct architecture of the American Southwest, why they believe in "softening" a harsh landscape with cozy florals, and how they turned their own home into a "designer lab." Quick Decorating Takeaways: Find Your "Keystone" Fabric: Heather anchors her elaborate color palettes with a single multi-colored "keystone" fabric that serves as a roadmap for the entire design scheme. Create a Respite from the Environment: Rather than mimicking harsh outdoor landscapes, Heather and Matt recommend using soft florals and wallpapers to create a cozy indoor respite. Study the Masters: Matt emphasizes that studying design history and legends like Sister Parish can be just as valuable as a formal degree for developing a great eye. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Introductions 02:00 From Alabama to Santa Fe: Heather & Matt’s pivot into design 06:00 The "Shelter Magazine Budget": Prioritizing beauty in their first renovation 09:00 The historic Applegate Estate project and respecting Santa Fe style 15:00 Blending Southern traditionalism with Southwest architecture 18:00 Why florals are essential for softening "harsh" environments 26:00 How to build a color palette using a "Keystone Fabric" 30:00 The importance of design books and knowing the industry's history 40:00 Designing their own home as a creative laboratory 46:00 Collaborating with their teenage daughter on a "sunset-themed" room 52:00 Closing notes & where to find French & French Also Mentioned: French & French Interiors | Website Follow them on Instagram: @frenchandfrenchinteriors Designers/Books Mentioned: Sister Parish, Mario Buatta, Kathryn Ireland, Bunny Williams, Furlow Gatewood Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are wrapping up our special three-part holiday series! For the finale, Liz takes the mic to share her absolute favorite holiday episode from the How to Decorate archive. Liz chose Episode 386 with the delightful Carson Kressley (Queer Eye, RuPaul’s Drag Race). Liz loves this episode because Carson embodies the spirit of "lavish yet achievable" holiday cheer. In this hilarious and tip-filled conversation, Carson breaks down how he turns the day after Thanksgiving into a tree-trimming party, his secret for serving fast food on silver platters, and why he color-codes his guest towels. Quick Decorating & Hosting Takeaways: Match the Decor to the Room: Don't force a red and green color scheme if your room is blue. Carson suggests tailoring your holiday decor to the existing room palette (e.g., aqua ribbons and silver ornaments in a blue room) so you don't have to overhaul your daily decor. The "High-Low" Party Menu: You don't need to cook for days to be a great host. Carson’s signature move is serving Kentucky Fried Chicken tenders stacked beautifully on an antique silver platter with a homemade dipping sauce. Color-Code Your Guest Rooms: To keep laundry organized when hosting a crowd, assign a specific towel color to each guest room (e.g., the blue room gets blue towels, the lavender room gets lavender towels) so you always know where clean linens belong. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Liz introduces the final Holiday Throwback episode 01:45 Carson Kressley joins the show 04:00 Carson’s Thanksgiving Routine: Hosting the parade and the "Day After" tree trimming party 09:30 Guest Room Essentials: Flawless bedding and the color-coded towel system 16:00 Real vs. Artificial Trees: Why Carson uses both 20:00 Storage Hacks: Organizing ornaments by tree 28:00 Decorating Philosophy: Using non-traditional colors (Aqua and Silver) 36:00 The Bar Setup: Hiring a bartender and using rolling racks for coat check 45:00 The Menu: KFC on silver platters and country ham biscuits 48:00 Why personalized plastic cups are a hosting lifesaver 53:00 Listener Dilemma: How to style deep window sills with radiators (From Sweden!) Also Mentioned: Carson Kressley | Instagram RuPaul's Drag Race Ballard Designs Essential Stocking Holder American Stationery (Monogrammed Cups) Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Surprise! We are dropping a special bonus episode today. If you haven't seen it yet, we recently shared a stunning holiday house tour on our YouTube channel with the queen of Christmas herself, designer Suzanne Kasler. In this audio version of the official YouTube house tour, Caroline introduces a conversation between Suzanne and Ballard Designs President, Karen Mooney. They walk through Suzanne’s gorgeous Atlanta home, discussing why she is so obsessed with Christmas, her strategy for displaying massive collections without clutter, and how she manages to decorate three different trees (including one just for teddy bears!). Suzanne also shares her "3-Day Blitz" method for stress-free decorating and how she adapts her traditions as her family grows. Quick Decorating Takeaways: Group Collections for Impact: Don't scatter small collectibles (like nutcrackers or crystal trees) all over the house. Group them together in one specific area to create a "sculptural" statement that feels intentional rather than cluttered. The 3-Day Decorating Blitz: Suzanne dedicates a focused 3-4 day block right after Thanksgiving to get everything done. This allows her to stop "working" on Christmas and simply enjoy the festive atmosphere for the entire month of December. Buy in Multiples: If you find a unique holiday item you love (like her Czech crystal trees), don't just buy one. Buy a dozen or a whole collection immediately to ensure you have enough for a cohesive display, as they might be gone next year. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Caroline introduces the bonus episode 01:30 Suzanne’s lifelong obsession with Christmas 02:45 The "Yard Sale" Rule: Grouping collections for high impact 07:00 The Teddy Bear Tree tradition 09:00 The "3-4 Day" Decorating Strategy 12:00 Mixing Real vs. Faux: Why Suzanne uses both types of trees 14:00 Matching holiday decor to your home (Red vs. Neutral) 21:00 Adapting traditions for new grandchildren 27:00 Suzanne’s miniature Christmas rooms & gift show finds 30:00 The silver ornament tradition Also Mentioned: Watch the Video Tour: Step Inside the Elegant Holiday Home of Designer Suzanne Kasler Shop Suzanne's Product Collection: Suzanne Kasler for Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are back for part two of our special three-part holiday series! This week, Taryn takes over the host chair to introduce her favorite holiday episode from the archives. Taryn chose Episode 388: The 2024 Holiday Hosting Special, a sentimental favorite because it was recorded right at her own dining room table in her new home. In this cozy and practical conversation, the ladies discuss navigating family food traditions (like Taryn’s pierogies vs. her husband's healthy salads), Liz’s secret "Winter Berry Pie" recipe, and the ultimate timeline for stress-free hosting. Quick Decorating & Hosting Takeaways: The "Martha" Method: Caroline shares her system for stress-free hosting: create a master list 1-2 weeks in advance and assign every single task (even "fill ice trays") to a specific day so you never have to do everything at once. Focus on the Big Two: If you are low on energy for decorating, Taryn and the team suggest focusing only on a pre-lit Christmas tree and a great wreath for the front door. If you nail those two spots, you can let the rest of the house go. Shop Estate Sales: For unique, sustainable gifts, skip the mall and check out local estate sales (using apps like EstateSales.net) to find special items like silver trays, crystal, or vintage books. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Taryn introduces Part 2 of the Holiday Throwback series 02:00 Hosting Thanksgiving: From potlucks to seating 7 at a round table 04:00 Menu mashups: Combining family traditions (Pierogies vs. Salads) 08:00 Caroline’s "Master List" hosting strategy 13:00 Liz’s Winter Berry Pie & Caroline’s "Salty Pumpkin Pie" disaster 23:00 Christmas Decorating: The December 8th rule vs. decorating early 26:00 The debate: Real trees vs. Fake trees (and using both!) 28:00 DIY Flocking Tips: Mist, sprinkle, mist again 30:00 Ornaments: Tying glass icicles with satin ribbon 42:00 Stocking Holders: Why the ladies love the "Essential" holder 59:00 Gift Giving: Why estate sales are the best secret source Also Mentioned: Ina Garten’s Mashed Sweet Potatoes EstateSales.net (App for finding sales) Ballard Designs Essential Stocking Holder  Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The team is back for an emergency design session! Caroline, Taryn, and Liz hop on the mics to discuss the breaking news of the 2026 Pantone Color of the Year: Cloud Dancer. While the hosts usually love dissecting color trends (and loved last year's Mocha Mousse), this year's selection of a "soft, airy white" has left them confused, bored, and a little suspicious. In this short bonus episode, the ladies debate whether this choice is a symbol of clarity or just a "builder-grade" cop-out. They compare it to the rich, earthy predictions from other paint brands, discuss the concept of "rage bait" marketing, and ask the ultimate question: Does a white color of the year actually influence interior design, or is it just the default setting? What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Introductions 01:30 The Reveal: Pantone 2026 is "Cloud Dancer" (11-4201) 03:00 Taryn’s reaction: "It’s like not decorating" 04:30 Liz’s reaction: Why it fails to capture the moment 07:00 Caroline’s theory: Is this just marketing rage bait? 10:00 Why white feels "artificial" vs. "organic" 14:00 Comparing Cloud Dancer to Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams' earthy picks 17:00 Does the Pantone Color of the Year actually change how we design? Also Mentioned: Pantone Color of the Year 2026: Cloud Dancer Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are kicking off a special three-part holiday series! For the next few weeks, Caroline, Taryn, and Liz are each taking a turn replaying their absolute favorite holiday episode from the podcast archives. To start us off, Caroline revisits Episode 117 with Richmond interior designer Janie Molster. Caroline chose this episode because it completely changed her philosophy on holiday decorating. Janie explains why you don't need to force "red and green" if it doesn't fit your home, sharing her secrets for a holiday look that feels traditional yet surprising. She covers everything from managing a "hodgepodge" family tree to wrapping oddly shaped gifts. Quick Decorating Takeaways: Coordinate, Don't Clash: Your holiday decor should enhance your room, not fight with it. If your room has a pink and blue palette, use pink or blue ribbon and ornaments rather than forcing traditional red and green. The "Squint" Test: To ensure your tree has that professional glow, step back and squint your eyes at the lit tree. This blurs the details and highlights any dark "holes" where you need to add more lights. Unify with Ribbon: If you have a family tree filled with mismatched sentimental ornaments, use a high-quality, wide-wired ribbon to weave through the branches. It acts as a unifying element that ties the whole look together. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Caroline introduces the Holiday Throwback series 02:00 How to decorate a "Pink House" for Christmas 04:00 Janie’s tip for layering different types of greenery (magnolia, holly, pine) 06:00 Choosing a ribbon color that matches your permanent decor 08:00 Strategies for decorating a tree with kids and family ornaments 11:00 The "Butcher Paper" hack for wrapping large or oddly shaped toys 14:00 Lighting tips: The "Squint Test" and using dimmers 16:00 Decorating Dilemma 1: How to handle a bedroom with awkward dormer windows (Wallpaper is the answer!) 23:00 Decorating Dilemma 2: Furniture layout for a 70s build family room 32:00 Closing thoughts Also Mentioned: Janie Molster Designs | Website Follow Janie on Instagram: @janiemolsterdesigns Butcher block paper (Home Depot) for gift wrapping Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're excited to welcome interior designer Sara Hillery to the show! Based in Richmond, Virginia, Sara’s firm blends function with one-of-a-kind decorative pieces to create story-driven rooms. Named a "Next Wave Designer" by House Beautiful and featured in Veranda and The Wall Street Journal, Sara joins Caroline and Liz to demystify "transitional" design and share her spirited approach to holiday decorating. Sara explains how she balances antiques with clean lines to create timeless spaces, her method for editing a room like an onion, and how she reinvents her holiday decorating theme every single year. She also shares her secret for keeping Christmas trees alive and her favorite way to spark conversation at dinner parties. Quick Decorating Takeaways: Peel the Onion: When defining your style, pin up everything you love on a board, then "peel back the layers of the onion" by removing items until you reach a harmonious balance of favorite pieces. Create a "Thread" Between Rooms: You don't need to paint every room the same color, but rooms should have equal "tonal weight" and a unifying thread (like a specific welt or texture) so you can move a chair from one room to another without it looking out of place. Hydrate Your Holiday: To keep fresh greenery and trees from drying out, soak garlands in water overnight before hanging them, and add a little Miracle-Gro to your Christmas tree water to keep it fresh and prevent needle drop. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 01:00 Sara’s background and defining "Transitional Design" 04:00 The art of mixing clean upholstery lines with antiques 07:00 The "Onion" method: How to edit a room and find your style 11:00 Using monochromatic palettes to play with texture and scale 14:00 Connecting open floor plans without matching every room 19:00 The story behind the "Hot Pink Chairs" and lacquered ceiling 22:00 Holiday Decorating: Why Sara changes her theme every year 27:00 Using ribbon and Christmas cards on the mantle 30:00 This year's theme: Pineapples and a nod to Bermuda 36:00 Hosting tips: Pre-planned questions and dinner party quizzes 44:00 Tips for fresh greenery and using Miracle-Gro on the tree 49:00 Closing notes & where to find Sara Also Mentioned: Sara Hillery Interior Design | Website  Follow Sara on Instagram: @sarahilleryinteriordesign  Maymont House (Victorian Christmas Inspiration)  Shop Ballard Designs  Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The ladies are beyond thrilled to welcome iconic interior designer Peter Dunham to the show. After opening his design firm over 25 years ago in Los Angeles, Peter redefined the "Southern California casual" look, creating his own legendary design shop, Hollywood at Home, as well as his own textile, wallpaper, and furniture lines. He joins Taryn and Liz to discuss his debut book, The World of Peter Dunham: Global Style from Paris to Hollywood. Peter shares his fascinating journey from selling real estate in New York to designing for Jennifer Garner in LA, and how a meeting with Albert Hadley launched his textile career. He breaks down his philosophy on why a home’s "vibe" matters more than its look, how to use his "toolkit" to fix architectural issues, and why green is the ultimate neutral. Quick Decorating Takeaways: Follow the 70/30 Rule for Vibe: Peter suggests a home should be 70% planned and 30% serendipity (found objects, art, travel souvenirs). A true "vibe" comes from these collected, imperfect layers rather than a perfect showroom look. Treat Green as a Neutral: Because we see green constantly in nature, the human eye reads it as a neutral. A green sofa anchors a room and seamlessly connects the indoors to the view outside. Use Decor to Fix Architecture: Use Peter’s "toolkit" to correct a room's flaws—whether it's using mirrors on window returns (the sides of the jambs) to create airiness, or placing a bookshelf over a window to block a bad view. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Introductions 01:00 Peter’s background: From French roots to English boarding school 07:00 Falling in love with New York City and working in real estate 13:00 Moving to LA, flipping houses, and finding creative satisfaction 16:00 The "Jennifer Garner" project and his first Show House kitchen 20:00 The start of the textile line and a meeting with Albert Hadley 24:00 Creating "Hollywood at Home" and Almont Yard 28:00 Inspiration: David Hicks, geometric patterns, and tribal rhythms 32:00 Balancing "Dollar Prints" with large scale patterns 36:00 Defining "Vibe" vs. "Look" in a home 40:00 The importance of serendipity and patience in collecting 50:00 Approachable ways to start collecting art (lithographs and photography) 55:00 How to bring "Charm" into a space 58:00 The Designer’s Toolkit: Using mirrors and fixing architecture 01:04:00 Why the green sofa follows Peter everywhere 01:08:00 Closing notes & where to find Peter’s book Also Mentioned: The World of Peter Dunham: Global Style from Paris to Hollywood (Available Now) Hollywood at Home | Website Peter Dunham Textiles Follow Peter on Instagram: @peterdunhamdesign & @hollywoodathome Shop Ballard Designs Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the ladies welcome to the show Patrick Shelton, Senior Vice President of Sales at Valdese Weavers, to decode what “performance fabrics” really mean and how to choose the right one for your home. With hands-on training across spinning, dyeing, weaving, finishing, and testing, Patrick explains yarn-based versus finish-based performance (and where InsideOut, Crypton Home, Sunbrella, and Ballard’s Performance Queen’s Velvet fit), how to read fiber content, and what to expect for cleanability, durability, and fade resistance. What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ballor Designs Podcast 00:56 Meet the Expert: Patrick Shelton 01:34 Understanding Performance Fabrics 06:18 Types of Performance Fabrics 20:12 Cleaning and Maintenance Tips 06:25 Avoiding Bleach on Performance Fabrics 27:42 Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Needs 29:42 Pet-Friendly Fabric Options 30:59 Upholstery Cleaning Tips 35:26 Understanding Fabric Repellency 39:10 Emerging Trends in Fabric Design 44:52 The Importance of Fabric in Furniture 50:08 Conclusion and Where to Find More Key Takeaways on Performance Fabrics: Cleaning basics: Always blot first and start with water; add a mild soap if needed and rinse thoroughly. Use diluted bleach only on bleach-safe fibers, and clean pile fabrics like velvet in the direction of the nap to avoid damage. For busy or pet-friendly homes: Opt for tightly woven, multicolor or textured fabrics (bouclé, tweed, chenille) that better disguise wear and stains. Tackle spills quickly and clean full cushions or panels to prevent water rings. Trends and biggest takeaway: Expect softer hands, multicolor tapestries, and warming palettes (camels, ochres, terracottas, greens). Above all, your fabric choice is the biggest determinant of how good upholstery looks over time. Also Mentioned: • Shop Performance Fabrics at Ballard Designs - ⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3LJf3Pg • Valdese Weavers, Company Website - ⁠https://bit.ly/3X2wUD6 Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the ladies welcome Atlanta interior designer and HGTV Dream Home alum Brian Patrick Flynn to the show. Brian shares how a decade-plus in production design shaped his approach to color, materials, and storytelling, plus how becoming a dad is refocusing his work closer to home. The conversation spans his House Tour with Ballard, the realities of designing for camera versus real life, why he loves 5000K bulbs (and we don’t), and how he mixes fresh traditional with retro ’80s cues without feeling theme-y. Brian also digs into set design secrets (continuity, multiple-scale props), candid career pivots, and a rapid-fire “in vs. out” on trends from beige and pleated shades to white houses with black trim. What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:33 Welcoming Brian Patrick Flynn 01:22 Brian's Journey with HGTV Dream Home 03:04 Designing Traditional Homes with a Twist 07:48 The Challenges of Supply Chains 11:35 The Role of SEO in Interior Design 21:43 Parenthood and Career Balance 27:56 The Colorful Transformation of My Home 29:29 The Ball Pit Dilemma 30:29 Lighting Controversies and Career Milestones 31:34 Designing with 5000 Kelvin Light Bulbs 36:38 The Oxford House Project 45:50 The Influence of Nancy Meyers and Set Design 55:23 The Importance of Continuity in Production Design 55:43 Challenges and Strategies in Set Design 56:50 The Role of Continuity in Sitcoms 58:49 The Evolution of Design Choices 01:01:09 Balancing Personal Taste with Market Trends 01:02:47 Career Journey and Early Experiences 01:06:11 Trends and Personal Preferences in Design 01:08:51 In and Out: Design Trends Discussion 01:19:33 Final Thoughts and Future Plans Also Mentioned: • Watch Brian's House Tour with Ballard - ⁠https://bit.ly/487OiN1 • Brian Patrick Flynn on Instagram - @bpatrickflynn • Shop Ballard Designs - ⁠https://bit.ly/4oGtjXL⁠ Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we welcome London-based interior designer Nicola Harding to the show to discuss her latest book "Homing Instinct." Nicola—whose work spans boutique hotels, restaurants, and royalty—shares her unconventional path into design, the influence of garden design on her interiors, and her human-led approach to layouts, color, and pattern. Listen to discover Nicola's strategy for finding a home’s "spirit" by listening to people and place; she also recounts a church-to-restaurant conversion, a vivid Italian project rich in terracottas and dusty reds, and the practical origins of her furniture and homewares line, all underscored by a commitment to craftsmanship and locally made materials. Key Takeaways: Prioritize how people live: start with layout and create human-scaled “places” (cozy corners, pools of light) before decorating. Use color boldly and early—paint is a low-cost, high-impact tool; layer similar tones for depth and mood. Treat stripes/checks and scaled repeats as neutral texture; mix scales and tonal variants for harmony. Favor natural pigments, vintage fabrics, and local craftsmanship; design furniture to solve real project needs. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: • 00:00 Introduction • 00:34 Meet Nicola Harding: London-based designer • 01:40 An unusual path into interior design • 05:33 From garden design to interiors: lessons learned • 07:36 Creating placement and flow: start with layout • 11:00 Questions that unlock how a home should work • 15:00 How light influences activity and layout choices • 17:56 Choosing paint: why color often comes early in Nicola’s process • 19:30 Using paint to dial mood and atmosphere • 21:00 Accent color instincts and natural palettes • 23:48 Pattern play: stripes, checks, and scale as neutrals • 25:16 The importance of natural pigments and vintage fabrics • 27:08 Finding a home’s spirit: listening to clients and place • 29:00 Design challenge: converting a church into a restaurant • 30:41 The Italian project: layered neutrals and earthy reds • 35:00 How Nicola selects and tests saturated wall colors • 37:08 Developing a furniture collection from real project needs • 40:00 Local makers, ethical production, and functional design details • 42:33 Writing Homing Instinct: revisiting projects and collaborators • 44:00 Current projects: varied architecture and shifting palettes • 46:00 Where to follow Nicola and buy the book • 47:30 Conclusion Also Mentioned: • Order your copy of Homing Instinct - https://bit.ly/4hGV6Ex • Nicola Harding & Co. Website - https://bit.ly/3Lfa4pn • Nicola Harding on Instagram - @nicolahardingandco • Shop Ballard Designs - https://bit.ly/4oGtjXL Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome featured Ballard Designs artist Anne Bohne to the show to discuss her creative journey, the inspiration behind her coastal and Southern landscapes, and how she translates hand‑painted art into textiles and home decor. Anne shares the inspiration behind her techniques (why she loves watercolor for its immediacy and acrylic for looser washes), ways to collect and live with art, and playful ideas—like painted mats and wrapped frames—that make artwork feel personal and playful in a home. Key Takeaways: - Watercolor is forgiving and portable; acrylic on raw canvas or Birch board yields lively effects. - Layer florals with geometric or block motifs for balance—look to antique textiles for inspiration. - Start collecting with what delights you (prints included); rotate art through rooms to refresh a space. - Painted mats, fabric‑wrapped frames, and bespoke framing add playful, personal touches. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Introductions 01:00 Meet Anne Bohne — background & early influences 02:30 College show that launched her career 04:00 Working in textile/surface design with Beth Lacefield 07:00 Favorite mediums: watercolor, acrylic, and Birch board 11:00 Translating art into repeat patterns and fabric 15:00 Landscapes, light, and color inspirations from the Southeast 20:00 Animal portraits—joyful, looser watercolor sketches 24:00 Collecting art: university shows, prints, and commissions 30:00 Size, scale, and framing (floater frames, painted mats) 36:00 Current color & pattern trends: terracotta, muddy greens, florals vs. geometrics 43:00 Creative framing ideas and DIY touches 49:00 Nurseries, commissions, and how art grows with a family 55:00 Where to find Anne’s work & follow her Also Mentioned: - Anne Bohne on Instagram: @annebohneart - Anne Bohne’s website & shop: annebohneart.com (originals, prints, commissions) - Shop Anne’s Exclusive Art Collection with Ballard: https://bit.ly/3LbXarZ Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The ladies welcome back interior designer, author, and TV personality Vern Yip to discuss his new book Color Pattern Texture: The Foundations to Make Your Home Your Own as well as his recently released HBO series Home Reimagined. Vern breaks down a few designer secrets for how to use color, pattern, and texture together, why meaningful pieces and physical samples matter, and how to layer scale and tonal variation for rooms that feel personal and enduring. He also shares kid-friendly design tips, smart ways to compromise on shared spaces, and how to bring human scale and warmth to large, unconventional structure. Quick Decorating Takeaways: Start with meaningful, restrictive items (art, rugs, heirlooms) and then choose paint. Use physical samples and an inspiration box—screens can’t convey scale, texture, or real color. Layer many patterns by varying scale (extra-small to extra-large) for richness. Use tonal variation (not exact matches) to create depth and longevity. If you avoid pattern, amplify texture and contrast finishes (rough vs. smooth, matte vs. shiny). For small rooms: fewer, larger pieces (e.g., a sectional + swivel) often feel more spacious than many small items. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome & Introductions 01:00 Vern Yip: New book Color Pattern Texture 03:00 Why color, pattern, texture matter together 07:00 Where to start — meaningful items vs. paint chips 10:30 The Inspiration Box: collect tactile samples 14:00 Pattern layering by scale & practical benefits 18:30 Texture’s role when pattern is limited 22:00 Tonal variation vs. exact color matching 26:00 Color, pattern, texture dictionaries & cheat sheets 30:00 Kids’ rooms: give them voice + longevity tips 36:00 Balancing opposite partner styles — finding compromise 42:00 Designing for large volumes — bringing human scale 49:00 Vern’s show Home Reimagined — pilot & episodes 54:00 Listener dilemma: small mountain cabin layout advice 01:08 Closing notes & where to find Vern Decorating Dilemma: Hi Melissa, Great job—your cabin already feels warm and personal. Vern applauds your pattern-forward choices (that rug and Francis Floral pillows are perfect) and suggests orienting seating to make the fireplace/TV the clear focal point. His practical solution: swap the sectional so it faces the mantle/TV, add a swivel chair for flexible conversation/viewing, and favor fewer, larger pieces (a well-scaled sectional + one or two chairs) to make the small room feel more expansive and comfortable. Vern also notes lowering the mantle and using floor-to-ceiling drapery, appropriately scaled lighting, and a substantial rug will bring human scale and coziness to the lofty elements. You’re on the right track — these tweaks will maximize seating and make the space more functional without losing your Ralph Lauren–inspired vibe. — How to Decorate Also Mentioned: Color, Pattern, Texture: The Foundations to Make Your Home Your Own (Order Now; pub. Oct 14) Home Reimagined (pilot streaming now on Magnolia / HBO Max / Discovery+; new episodes before year end) Vern Yip on Instagram & Facebook: @vernypdesigns Vern’s book signing: Ballard Designs Atlanta (Oct 23) - RSVP HERE: https://bit.ly/3KYMlJO ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Ballard Designs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Caroline and Liz welcome back Southern GA-based interior designer and eight‑time author James Farmer to discuss his new book Home Again: A Return to Gracious Interiors. James explains the personal inspirations behind his lifelong oeuvre, how he reworked rooms at his Farmdale home, and his approach to layering tradition, comfort, and seasonality. From a lofty Auburn condo to a Nantucket‑tinged Vineyard retreat and a playful Oxford game‑day house, he shows how geometry, scale, heirlooms, and unexpected color (yes—coral) make spaces feel lived‑in and welcoming. The episode closes with a listener dilemma about choosing paint for a new build and James’s practical advice on finish schedules and decision sequencing. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 01:00 James Farmer — The Story Behind the Books 05:00 Writing from the Heart — Home vs. House 09:00 Farmdale: swapping dining & living for better function 12:30 Geometry and furniture scale — cozy for 2, comfy for 20 18:00 Decorative edits, heirlooms, and the peach‑toned screen 23:00 Auburn condo: making a new shell feel like an old home 28:30 Oxford game‑day house and playful bunk rooms 32:30 Finding a jumping‑off point when clients give no direction 36:00 Secondary spaces as labs for bold design 40:00 Designing rooms for the seasons — coffee table ideas 47:00 Listener dilemma: choosing paint colors for a new build 57:00 Final thoughts, events, and where to find more from James Also Mentioned: Home Again: A Return to Gracious Interiors | Order Your Copy James Farmer on Instagram: @jamestfarmer & @jamesfarmerinc Watch James’s Farmdale house tour on Ballard Designs’ YouTube channel (dropping this week ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Ballard Designs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices