The Interiors Podcast

In this episode, interior designer & host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan shares her comprehensive journey through the renovation of her Georgian home in Dublin.She discusses the importance of engaging professionals early, understanding renovation costs, and navigating planning permissions. Tanya emphasizes the need for a well-thought-out budget, the significance of choosing the right architect, and the integration of interior design into the architectural process. Throughout the conversation, she shares valuable lessons learned, including managing delays, the snagging process, and the overall emotional journey of home renovation.The Interiors Podcast is brought to you by Farrelly & Co, Ireland's premium painting company. To learn more about their full suite of painting services, colour consultations and paint colours, please visit ⁠https://farrellyandco.com/podChapters00:00 Introduction to the Georgian Renovation Journey02:19 Understanding Renovation Costs and Planning06:30 Navigating Planning Permissions and Council Regulations12:13 Redesigning with a New Architectural Approach17:57 Finalizing Designs and Tender Drawings28:46 Managing the Renovation Process and Next Steps29:42 Designing with Purpose: The Importance of Specific Requirements30:08 Tender Drawings and Cost Estimation: The Role of Quantity Surveyors32:01 Navigating Budgeting: Understanding Bill of Quantities33:57 Managing Expectations: The Reality of Renovation Timelines36:16 Choosing the Right Builders: Importance of Recommendations37:43 First Fix Items: Planning for Success39:06 Window Selection: The Cost of Poor Choices40:52 Ordering Sanitary Ware: Balancing Quality and Budget42:42 Managing Delays: The Impact of Unexpected Issues45:34 Finalizing Designs: The Importance of Early Decisions48:56 Dealing with Specialist Repairs: The Challenges of Older Homes52:14 The Snagging Period: Lessons Learned After Moving InThe Interiors Podcast is brought to you by Farrelly & Co, Ireland's premium painting company. To learn more about their full suite of painting services, colour consultations and paint colours, please visit ⁠https://farrellyandco.com/pod

In this episode of the Interiors Podcast, Tanya Neufeld Flanagan is joined by Craig Jones from Land Options Ireland to discuss innovative solutions to the housing crisis in Ireland.Without a home, there can be no interiors which is why this podcast regularly explores the creative ways different people go about creating a home.Tanya and Craig explore the potential of self-building, planning permissions, and the intricacies of land development. Craig shares insights on finding suitable plots, understanding planning constraints, and the importance of due diligence in property development.TakeawaysSelf-building offers a unique solution to the housing crisis.Understanding planning permissions is crucial for property development.Finding suitable plots requires creativity and knowledge.Planning constraints can be navigated with the right expertise.Due diligence is essential before purchasing property.Land Options Ireland specializes in innovative land development.Craig Jones shares insights on planning and development.The housing market in Ireland presents unique challenges.Creative solutions can maximize land use and value.Engaging experts can streamline the development process.Sound bites"Self-building offers unique solutions.""Planning permissions are crucial.""Find suitable plots creatively.""Navigate planning constraints expertly.""Due diligence is essential.""Innovative land development is key.""Craig Jones shares planning insights.""Ireland's housing market is challenging.""Maximize land use creatively.""Engage experts for streamlined development."

In this episode of the Interiors Podcast, Tanya Neufeld welcomes back Rachel Farrelly of Farrelly & Co. To catch up on the first episode with this guest, listen to Episode 32, Everything youneed to know about paint.They discuss the nuances of paint colours, focusing on neutrals and their impact on interior design.Rachel and Tanya address colour drenching, double-drenching, and interesting ways to paint woodwork in complementary, tonal or contrasting colours depending on the aesthetic you want to achieve.The conversation covers the evolution of colour trends over the last 20-30 years, the importance of understanding undertones, and how to achieve impact if bold colour just isn't your thing.The Interiors Podcast is brought to you by Farrelly & Co, Ireland's premium painting company. To learn more about their full suite of painting services, colour consultations and paint colours, please visit https://farrellyandco.com/podTakeawaysUnderstanding the impact of undertones in paint colors is crucial.Neutrals can vary greatly depending on lighting and room orientation.Choosing the right paint involves considering both aesthetics and functionality.The evolution of color trends reflects broader cultural shifts.Sampling paint colors in different lighting conditions is essential.Neutrals are not just beige; they include a range of earthy tones.The concept of 'dirty neutrals' is gaining popularity in design.Paint choices should consider the long-term use of a space.Farrelly & Co. offers a curated range of colors suited for Irish light.The right neutral can create a timeless and adaptable space.

In this conversation, host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan and Ola Jordan from Irish retailer EZ Living Ola Jordan discuss preparing your home for the Christmas season.Rather than thinking about cliched tropes such as adding knick knacks to every surface, Tanya and Ola break down a few steps to using the holiday period as an impetus to finish out some spaces you may be holding back on.They discuss decluttering and getting smart with storage furniture, like footstools and ottoman beds. Next Tanya and Ola discuss how to complete spaces that might be missing an armchair or side table, a properly sized rug or a console, easily sourced via EZ Living Furniture's ample, affordable and in-stock range in a world of long lead times.Once spaces are decluttered (or least box away the clutter!), and missing furniture added, it's time to explore layering decor items before you unbox all the ornaments. Essential styling items may feel like odd purchases by themselves -- things like bowls, vases and mirrors -- which help spaces from feeling bare. These are the foundations before you add holiday decor.Tanya and Ola emphasize the value of incorporating everyday pieces into Christmas decor, choosing the right size tree, and mixing different shapes, materials and sizes of ornaments. Additionally, they highlight the benefits of in-person shopping and sentimental and bespoke decorations to enhance the festive spirit.In the end, it's about getting some motivation to finish out spaces we want to use with friends and family, and taking the stress out of it, and making the holiday decor tie in with your own aesthetic and lifestyle, and having fun with it.TakeawaysChristmas is a time to declutter and refresh your home.Identify missing furniture to enhance your space for gatherings.Layering decor is key to creating a cozy atmosphere.Use everyday items to incorporate Christmas decor subtly.Personalized decorations can add a unique touch to your holiday styling.Consider the size and shape of your Christmas tree in relation to your space.Mix and match decor items for a more dynamic look.Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood for the holidays.Invest in functional furniture that complements your style.Support local businesses by shopping for home decor in your area.About this episode's sponsor, EZ Living FurnitureEZ Living Furniture was founded in 1998 by the Dilleen brothers from the West of Ireland, driven by a shared desire to make quality furniture accessible to everyone in Ireland. Starting with just one shop in Galway, our unwavering commitment to quality and value quickly set us apart from competitors. Word spread fast, and our reputation grew, attracting customers from near and far who sought out well-crafted furniture and home essentials. Today, EZ Living Furniture is proudly recognised as Ireland’s largest furniture retailer, with 22 stores nationwide and counting. We also have an award-winning online presence and an extensive catalogue offering everything from stylish living room sofas to elegant dining tables, comfortable mattresses, practical home accessories, and seasonal items such as garden furniture and Christmas décor.The Interiors Podcast is brought to you by Farrelly & Co, Ireland's premium painting company. To learn more about their full suite of painting services, colour consultations and paint colours, please visit https://farrellyandco.com/pod

In this episode all about rugs, host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan interviews Phoebe Holland, managing director of Rugs.ie, discussing the intricacies of rugs, their history, and the importance of quality in home decor.  They explore various types of rugs, including Persian, Oriental, and Kilim, and delve into the craftsmanship behind them. Phoebe shares insights on choosing the right rug for different spaces, the significance of material, and practical tips for care and maintenance. The conversation emphasizes the evolving role of rugs in modern interiors and the personalized service offered by Rugs.ie.  The Interiors Podcast is brought to you by Farrelly & Co, Ireland's premium painting company. To learn more about their full suite of painting services, colour consultations and paint colours, please visit https://farrellyandco.com/podTakeawaysRugs can significantly enhance the aesthetic of a home.Quality craftsmanship is essential in rug production.Persian and Oriental rugs have unique characteristics and histories.Choosing the right material is crucial for durability and maintenance.Rugs should be sized appropriately for the space they occupy.Layering rugs can add texture and warmth to a room.Rugs can be practical and stylish, suitable for busy households.Understanding the differences between hand-knotted and machine-made rugs is important.Rugs can be a long-term investment in home decor.Personalized service can help customers find the perfect rug for their needs.

A special bonus episode featuring snippets from the top 5 episodes from The Interior Podcast's first 50 episodes since launching in 2022. These feature Susan McGowan of Ashen & Cloud, Eilish Rickard Interiors and Po McNamee (all interior designers) and builders/QS/engineer respectively, Shay Lally of Houses to Restore and Kieran McCarthy who you may know from RTE's Cheap Irish Homes. Have a listen, find the original episodes if you like what you hear, and please subscribe, share and stay tuned as we continue with our new weekly cadence!

Host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan discusses the emotional challenges of home renovations, offering insights into managing stress, burnout, and relationships during the process. She shares her own personal experience renovating a Georgian protected structure as well as practical advice on navigating the stress and expectatons from the very beginning of your home journey through to snagging. Takeaways Understand that stress and disappointment start to build up from the buying process Expect cumulative "micro-frustrations" throughout the renovation, and energy will ebb and flow Do as much as you can when you're excited about the project as it will stand to you when you hit roadblocks or have to make a lot of decisions in quick succession Stand up for your role as client, but also know when to walk away/hire different people Divide tasks based on skillset within your family to manage workload effectively Adapt to the informal nature of the trades industry to avoid resentment Keep detailed records of instructions to avoid misunderstandings Be prepared for unexpected costs and have a contingency plan Use creative energy from others to overcome challenges Sound bites "Front-load decisions to avoid fatigue." "Adapt to the informal trades industry." "Keep detailed records of instructions." "Be prepared for unexpected costs." "Divide tasks based on skillset." Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Renovation Challenges 00:03:00 Managing Stress and Burnout 00:09:00 Planning and Design Insights 00:15:00 Navigating Unexpected Hurdles 00:21:00 Conclusion and Personal Reflections

In this episode, Tanya Neufeld Flanagan interviews Grace McNally from McNally Joinery, discussing the importance of joinery in interior design and architecture. They explore the evolution of McNally Joinery, the services offered, the design process, and the benefits of bespoke joinery. Grace shares insights on material choices, the significance of specialization, and the collaboration with clients and other trades. The conversation highlights the value of investing in key joinery pieces and the unique aspects of timber compared to other materials. Grace also discusses exciting current projects and encourages listeners to reach out for bespoke joinery solutions. Takeaways Joinery is essential in transforming spaces. McNally Joinery has a rich history since 1978. Bespoke joinery offers unique solutions tailored to clients. Specialization in joinery leads to better quality and efficiency. Supply and installation options are flexible based on client needs. Sound bites "Specialization is key in joinery." "Bespoke means the sky's the limit." "Don't be ashamed to ask for a price." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joinery and McNally Joinery 03:09 Specialization in External Joinery 07:40 Design Process and Client Collaboration 11:12 Combining Materials and Collaborating with Other Trades 12:12 Benefits of Bespoke Joinery 15:02 Investment in Key Joinery Pieces 16:21 Material Choices for Bespoke Joinery 18:57 Timber vs. Metal in Joinery 22:53 Weatherproofing and Structural Integrity 29:18 The Aesthetic and Emotional Value of Timber 30:54 Choosing the Right Materials for Durability 32:11 Understanding MDF vs. Solid Timber 33:59 Timber Selection for Internal Doors 36:16 The Role of Veneering in Joinery 41:03 Exciting Projects: A Unique Front Door 43:16 The Impact of Bespoke Joinery on Space 45:04 Managing Staircase Changes in Renovations 47:20 Getting Started with Your Joinery Project 50:08 Understanding Lead Times for Custom Work 53:31 The Importance of Budget Conversations

In this mini episode of the Interiors Podcast amidst a choatic move, interior designer and host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan discusses the five biggest misconceptions about interior design. She emphasizes that interior design is not just a luxury for the wealthy, but a crucial aspect of improving quality of life and maximizing space. The conversation covers the importance of understanding the true nature of interior design, which goes beyond mere aesthetics to include functionality, budget considerations, and the need for a cohesive design strategy. Takeaways Interior design is a transformational tool for improving quality of life. It's not just a luxury; it's essential for maximizing space. Interior design involves optimizing layouts, not just choosing furnishings. Budgets for quality interior design can be significantly higher than expected. Interior design can save on construction costs by optimizing existing spaces. It's better to execute interior design projects all at once for efficiency. Interior designers help question and refine client assumptions about their needs. The bespoke nature of interior design contributes to its cost. Interior design overlaps with essential renovation finishes. A cohesive design strategy is crucial for successful interior projects.  

In this episode, host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan shares her extensive journey of designing her kitchen, which has been three years in the making.  She discusses the importance of functionality in kitchen design, the challenges faced during the process, and how design decisions were influenced by the architecture of her home. Tanya emphasizes the need for a kitchen that not only serves its purpose but also complements the overall aesthetic of the house. She provides insights into the workflow of the kitchen, the significance of the kitchen triangle, and the creative solutions she implemented to maximize space and storage. Takeaways The kitchen is often the most significant investment in a home Functionality should be prioritized over aesthetics in kitchen design Personal preferences play a crucial role in kitchen decisions Iterative design processes lead to better outcomes The kitchen triangle is essential for efficient workflow Storage solutions should be cleverly integrated into the design. A kitchen should be designed to blend with the architecture of the home. Consider the orientation of rooms when designing a kitchen. Using existing rooms creatively can eliminate the need for extensions. Timestamps 00:00 The Kitchen Design Journey 09:47 Creating a Functional Space 19:52 Final Design Considerations

In this episode, Lauren Stonnell, CEO of Chase Erwin, discusses the luxury fabric industry, her journey from working in interiors in New Zealand to leading a prominent English fabric house, and the importance of quality materials in interior design.   She emphasizes the significance of understanding fabric performance, the trends in upholstery and drapery, and how layering fabrics can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space.   Lauren also shares insights on working with interior designers, the shift towards sustainable choices, and the versatility of fabrics in creating personalized interiors.     Takeaways Chase Erwin is a luxury fabric house, founded 40 years ago Quality fabrics can last for decades, making them a sustainable choice Understanding fabric performance is crucial for interior design Layering fabrics adds depth and sophistication to spaces Trends are shifting towards multicolored yarns and warmer tones Direct-to-consumer offerings include curated cushion collections Investing in a designer can lead to a cohesive interior scheme Natural materials are essential for creating timeless designs The Chelsea Design Center is a key location for exploring luxury fabrics   Sound Bites "Sheers can soften modern spaces." "Fabrics can express your personality." "Invest in quality that lasts 20 years."   Chapters 00:00Introduction to Chase Erwin 03:18Lauren's Journey to CEO 05:16Understanding Luxury Fabrics 08:57The Importance of Material Selection 11:22Trends in Upholstery and Drapery 15:04Layering Fabrics for Aesthetic Appeal 19:44The Versatility of Fabric in Design 24:17Direct-to-Consumer Offerings 29:34Shifts in Consumer Preferences 33:14Working with Interior Designers 38:15Sustainable Investment in Fabrics 42:22Final Thoughts on Fabric and Design

In this episode, host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan shares her insights from a year-long renovation of a Georgian protected structure in Dublin.   She discusses the evolution of the podcast format, focusing more on industry experts and solo episodes.   Tanya emphasizes the importance of understanding budgeting in renovations, the role of quantity surveyors, and the necessity of hiring experts to avoid costly mistakes.   She shares three key lessons learned during her renovation journey: understanding how to get accurate cost estimates, the importance of expert guidance, and building confidence in decision-making throughout the design process.   Takeaways The podcast is shifting to include more solo episodes and industry expert insights Renovating a home requires a pragmatic approach to budgeting and planning Architects may not provide accurate budget estimates without detailed designs Hiring a quantity surveyor can help manage costs effectively during renovations It's essential to do thorough research before purchasing a property for renovation Having a contingency plan is crucial for unexpected costs during renovations Don't underestimate the workload involved in managing a renovation project yourself Expert guidance can save you money and stress in the long run Building confidence in your design decisions is key to a successful renovation Iterating on design choices is a natural part of the renovation process Sound Bites "Architects are not budget experts." "You need a plan A, B, and C." Time-Stamps 00:00Introduction to the Renovation Journey 02:50Understanding Budgeting in Renovation 11:43The Importance of Hiring Experts 22:03Building Confidence in Decision-Making

In this episode of the Interiors Podcast, host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan interviews Domhnall O Gairbhi from Acquired.ie, a specialist in mid-century modern furniture.  They discuss Domhnall's journey into the world of vintage design, and the nuances of sourcing and restoring unique pieces. The conversation also explores the differences between Scandinavian and Italian midcentury design, the significance of statement pieces, and how to incorporate vintage elements into modern interiors. In addition to the website, Domhnall's Acquired.ie have a showroom based in Stradbally, Co. Laois which is by appointment, and Donal's latest venture is a collaboration with the Roisin Lafferty Gallery on Fitzwilliam Square. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Acquired.ie and Domhnall O'Garvey 03:05 The Journey into Mid-Century Modern Design 07:01 Understanding the Market and Sourcing 11:28 The Aesthetic of Mid-Century Modern vs. Traditional Furniture 13:03 Regional Differences in Mid-Century Design 15:48 The Sourcing Process and Building Networks 22:19 Restoration and Customization of Vintage Pieces 26:45 Personalized Sourcing and Client Collaboration 30:54 The Importance of Quality and Presentation 34:45 The Role of Statement Pieces in Interior Design 38:30 Mixing Different Woods and Styles 40:26 Exploring Different Furniture Types 53:23 Collaboration with Roisin Lafferty Gallery 57:39 Final Thoughts on Vintage and Mid-Century Design  

In this episode, host and interior designer Tanya Neufeld Flanagan and Sarah McNulty (@mcnultysmythassociates) delve into the intricate processes involved in working with architects and managing construction projects.    They discuss the importance of understanding architectural terminology, navigating the tender process, and the significance of value engineering in aligning design with budget.   The conversation also covers the stages of construction, from tender analysis to finalizing layouts and managing mechanical and electrical installations, emphasizing the collaborative nature of architecture and interior design.   Takeaways Understanding architectural terminology is crucial for clients The tender process involves detailed drawings and builder selection Value engineering helps align design with budget constraints Construction drawings are essential for accurate project execution Bathroom layouts should be finalized early in the process First fix mechanical and electrical installations are critical stages Second fix involves the installation of visible fixtures and finishes Communication between architects, builders, and clients is key to project success Clients should not hesitate to ask questions about the process Engaging professionals early can lead to better project outcomes

In this episode of the Interiors Podcast, Tanya Neufeld Flanagan and Jean Koeppel of Visual Comfort delve into the world of lighting design. They discuss the importance of understanding different types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent—and how to effectively incorporate them into home design.   Jean shares insights on common mistakes people make when planning lighting, the significance of aesthetic choices, and the technical aspects of lighting such as Kelvin ratings and dimmers.   The conversation also touches on budgeting for lighting, the importance of material finishes, and the experience of visiting showrooms to see products in person. Overall, the episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to enhance their home lighting.   Takeaways: Lighting is essential for creating mood and functionality in a space. There are three main types of lighting: ambient, task, and accent. Common mistakes include not considering lighting early in the design process. Aesthetic choices in lighting can enhance the overall design of a room. Understanding lighting terminology helps in making informed choices. Material finishes in lighting can add character to a space. Budgeting for lighting should focus on high-impact areas of the home. Functional lighting should not be overlooked in favor of aesthetics. Technical aspects like Kelvin ratings and dimmers are crucial for effective lighting. Visiting showrooms allows for a better understanding of lighting products.

In this collaborative episode, Tanya Neufeld Flanagan joins the hosts of the Rip It Up podcast Jenny Sheehan (@workerscottage) and Kate O'Driscoll (@victorianrathmines) also a previous guest to discuss the most common renovation mistakes and how to avoid them.   They emphasize the importance of planning layouts for functionality, budgeting for interior finishes, and the critical role of lighting in creating a welcoming atmosphere. The conversation is rich with insights and practical tips for anyone considering a renovation project.   Takeaways Planning your layouts is crucial for functionality Consider long-term needs when designing spaces Budget for interior finishes early in the renovation process Get multiple quotes to avoid overspending Lighting can transform a space and should be planned early Think about how you live in your space, not just aesthetics Storage solutions are key to maintaining a tidy home Flexibility in design allows for future changes Don't overlook the importance of electrical planning for lighting Choose timeless materials for long-lasting appeal

In this episode, architect Courtney McDonnell discusses her journey in architecture, her design philosophy, and the evolution of client needs in residential projects.   She shares insights into her award-winning projects, including the innovative Pink House and the transformative Griffith Avenue project, highlighting the importance of integrating interior and exterior design while addressing contemporary living requirements.   In this conversation, host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan and Courtney McDonnell explore various aspects of contemporary design, focusing on the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, material choices, and the importance of personal style in creating unique living environments.   They discuss the challenges of navigating design trends and emphasize the significance of feeling comfortable in one's home. The conversation also highlights the role of color, texture, and practical materials in achieving a cohesive and inviting aesthetic.   Some key takeaways Courtney won two awards for her project, Griffith Avenue. She established her practice in 2017 after a diverse career in design. Her approach focuses on creating cohesive interior and exterior designs. Clients often seek innovative solutions for maximizing space. There is a shift away from traditional open-plan living. The Pink House project showcases a unique blend of color and design. Courtney emphasizes the importance of understanding client personalities. She advocates for clever modifications of existing spaces. The Griffith Avenue project involved a complete transformation of a dated home. Light and space are central themes in her architectural designs. The garden was in amazing condition, requiring no landscaping budget. Blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces enhances functionality. Creating cozy living spaces involves thoughtful layout and design. Achieving a minimalist look can be challenging with varied materials. Green tones can add warmth and depth to a design. Porcelain is a practical alternative to natural stone finishes. Understanding how spaces make you feel is crucial in design. Editing design choices helps in navigating overwhelming options. Transforming standard homes into unique spaces is achievable with thoughtful design.

In this episode of The Interiors Podcast, Jade shares her inspiring journey of self-building her own home in Ireland.   From the initial decision to take on such a project to the challenges of planning permissions, budgeting, and managing local trades, Jade provides insights into the realities of building a home solo. She emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision, making sacrifices, and learning through the process.   Jade's story serves as a motivational guide for anyone considering a self-build project, highlighting that with determination and the right mindset, it is possible to create your dream home. In this conversation, Tanya and Jade discuss the complexities and challenges of self-building a home, focusing on budgeting, material management, and the balance between DIY efforts and hiring professionals.   Jade discusses the realities of budgeting, prioritizing structural elements over aesthetics, and the emotional rollercoaster of the self-building process. Her story serves as a motivational guide for others considering a similar path, highlighting the value of perseverance and community support.  

In this episode, architect Sarah McNulty shares her journey in architecture, emphasizing the importance of empathy in understanding client needs. She discusses her experiences in building her own home, the diverse projects she undertakes, and the significance of a well-defined brief.    The conversation highlights the challenges of budget constraints, the importance of proportions in design, and the collaborative nature of architecture.   The conversation also highlights the significance of solar gain in design, emphasizing the balance between natural light and comfort in living spaces.   Sarah also reflects on a case study of a 1930s renovation, illustrating how client needs evolve and how architects can adapt to create functional and beautiful spaces.   In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricate process of architectural design, from initial sketches to the complexities of planning regulations and tendering.    Sarah and Tanya discuss the importance of detailed drawings and bills of quantities in ensuring accurate pricing and project management.    Takeaways Empathy is crucial for architects to understand client needs. A well-defined brief leads to better architectural outcomes. Budget constraints often require compromises in design. Proportions in design significantly affect the feel of a space. Good design should reflect the client's personality and lifestyle. Collaboration between architects and interior designers enhances the final result. Understanding the emotional response to a space is essential. Architects should consider both interiors and exteriors from the start. The design process is iterative and may require adjustments on site. Investing time in the brief stage pays off in the long run. The design process begins with sketching to explore options. AutoCAD can make designs feel too rigid compared to sketches. Understanding planning regulations is crucial for project timelines. Detailed drawings are essential for accurate tendering and pricing. Bills of quantities help ensure builders price projects accurately. Building relationships with contractors is key during the tender stage. Solar gain is important for optimizing natural light in homes. Value engineering can help clients make cost-effective design choices. The architectural process can take a year from initial discussions to site work. Consultations with architects can improve project outcomes.

Interior designer & host Tanya Neufeld Flanagan interviews fashion and interiors journalist Sarah Macken (aka @ohegartysarah) about personal style, its evolution, and the intersection of fashion and interiors.   They discuss the importance of authenticity in style, the tools available for developing a personal aesthetic, and the impact of social media on fashion choices.   Sarah shares her journey from fashion intern to editor and freelancer, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's preferences and the influence of various cultural elements on personal style. The discussion also touches on navigating trends, the language of interiors, and the joy of creating unique spaces.   Some key takeaways: Personal style evolves over time and is influenced by experiences. The three-word method can help distill personal style into practical, aspirational, and emotional descriptors. Social media can create pressure to conform to trends, but authenticity is key. Exploring various forms of art can enhance personal style and interior design. It's important to assess whether purchases align with personal style rather than trends. Finding unique pieces can be a rewarding process, especially in local markets. Balancing personal style with trends requires thoughtful consideration and experimentation. The language of interiors is less defined than fashion, allowing for more instinctive choices. Creating joyful spaces can be achieved through small, thoughtful purchases. Minimalism can be overused; it's essential to question if it truly resonates with personal taste. Follow Sarah @ohegartysarah on Instagram Follow Tanya and the podcast at @tanyaneufeldflanagan and @theinteriorspodcast Get the latest on interiors and renovation tips and deep dives on podcast topics by joining Tanya's Substack or subscribing to The Interiors Newsletter