We want to teach you how to decorate! We'll help you unleash your inner decorator with interviews from interior designers, sharing the trials and triumphs from ...
In the third and final installment of our decorating throwback series, Taryn shares her favorite episode with the group and teases the comprehensive mini-series on home building (episodes 229-232).
This mini-series brings together a wealth of expertise from interior designer Maggie Griffin, architect Kevin Clark, and builder Aaron Burgess. The conversations cover essential topics, including how to select the perfect property, make material choices, establish relationships with contractors, and navigate critical design decisions.
What You'll Hear This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast
00:34 Favorite Throwback Episodes
01:52 Building Your Own Home Series
02:49 Episode 229: Featuring Maggie Griffin: Insights into beginning the home construction journey.
03:50 Episode 230: Featuring Kevin Clark: Practical advice on architecture and land selection.
04:19 Episode 231: Featuring Aaron Burgess: Builder perspectives on team dynamics and project execution.
04:55 Episode 232: Interior Design Focus: Finalizing styles and interior details with Maggie Griffin.
06:15 Maternity Leave and Recording Challenges
18:32 Finding the Right Contractor
47:52 Prioritizing Home Features
48:31 Windows and Wildlife
49:22 Faucets and Fixtures
50:41 Lighting and Finishes
51:18 Cabinetry and Flooring
53:14 The 'While You're At It' Phase: Managing Add-Ons
56:04 The Importance of Timelines in Construction
59:23 Walkthroughs and Inspections: Ensuring Satisfaction
01:02:00 Effective Communication with Your Contractor
01:15:55 The Value of Relationships in Construction Projects
01:18:49 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
Also Mentioned:
@maggiegriffindesign | Instagram
Ep. 229 w/ Maggie Griffin | Podcast Episode
Ep. 230 w/ Kevin Clark | Podcast Episode
Ep. 231 w/ Aaron Burgess | Podcast Episode
Ep. 232 w/ Interior Design Focus | Podcast Episode
Shop Now at Ballard Designs | Ballard Designs Website
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1:27:28
Ep. 394: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 2)
Continuing their series of favorite throwback episodes, Liz, Caroline, and Taryn reminisce on memorable conversations with past guests before shining a special light on Ep. 318* with Brooke and Layla Gianetti.
Liz urges listeners to listen in to the story of the Gianettis, exploring their transformative journey from California to Tennessee to establish Patina Meadow. Discover the harmonious blend of farming and design and the lessons learned from this unique lifestyle shift. Gain insights into biodynamic farming, developing vibrant garden spaces, and how they are building a community through creativity and collaboration.**
*This throwback episode was originally published 7/18/2023
**Follow along with this throwback episode's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog: https://bit.ly/3BMzHtd
What You'll Hear This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast
01:45 Liz's Most Memorable Guests and Episodes
04:00 Reminiscing on the Giannetti Family Episodes
07:36 Interview with Brooke and Layla Gianetti
11:11 Life at Patina Meadow
25:57 Biodynamic Farming and Gardening
31:13 The Bloomery and Future Plans
36:57 Balancing Work and Farm Life
37:44 The Unexpected Arrival of Baby Guinea Fow
39:19 The Origin of Patina Home and Garden
43:04 Discovering Pottery and Teaching Classes
44:58 Building a Community Through Art and Learning
51:23 Design Work and Future Projects
59:31 Decorating Dilemma: Adding Color and Warmth
01:12:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Also Mentioned:
Patina Home & Garden | Website
@velvetandlinen | Instagram
Ep. 84: Susan Ferrier | Podcast Episode
Ep. 338 w/ Kathy Graham | Podcast Episode
Ep. 217 w/ Philip Mitchell | Podcast Episode
Ep. 66 w/ Kristin Kong | Podcast Episode
Ep. 158 w/ Katie Ritter | Podcast Episode
Shop Now at Ballard Designs | Ballard Designs Website
Tune in next week where Taryn will pick her favorite throwback in Part 3 of 3 of our decorating throwback series. Until then, happy decorating!
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1:17:34
Ep. 393: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 1)
In Part 1 of our new annual throwback series, Caroline, Taryn, and Liz revisit a memorable conversation with Susan Ferrier from Ep. 84* of the show that has inspired Caroline's approach to interior design since.
Susan Ferrier is a celebrated interior designer from Atlanta, GA. Known for her strategic use of light, texture, and contrast, Ferrier provides listeners with invaluable insights into her design process, emphasizing the thoughtful placement of furniture, the integration of scenic views, and the artful mixing of metals and textures to achieve timeless decor.
The throwback episode also includes a listener's decorating dilemma** that Susan helped solve, offering advice on successful room layout and effective use of lighting in difficult spaces.
*This throwback episode was originally published 4/16/2019
**Follow along with this throwback episode's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog: https://bit.ly/4gzBroH
What You'll Hear This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast
00:33 Reflecting on the Past 400 Episodes of the Show
01:29 Caroline Explains Why She Chose Ep. 84 w/ Susan Ferrier for Pt. 1 of our Throwback Series
05:10 Interview with Susan Ferrier Begins
05:59 Susan Ferrier’s Design Philosophy
14:11 Balancing Client Needs and Personal Style
31:50 Mixing Metals and Timeless Design
36:06 Revamping 80s Houses: Challenges and Solutions
36:20 Lake Martin Project: A Modern Makeover
36:33 Design Tricks: Using Paint and Drapery
39:45 Furniture and Layout: Creating Harmony
44:35 Lighting and Accessories: Enhancing Spaces
53:07 Listener’s Dilemma: Room Layout and Decor
01:07:42 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Also Mentioned:
Susan Ferrier Interiors | Website
@susanferrier | Instagram
Ep. 84: Susan Ferrier | Original Episode Blog Post
Ep. 299 w/ Bobby McAlpine | Podcast Episode
Ep. 161 w/ Mark Roberts | Podcast Episode
Ep. 122 w/ Tom Shearer | Podcast Episode
Ep. 158 w/ Katie Ritter | Podcast Episode
Shop Now at Ballard Designs | Ballard Designs Website
Tune in next week where Liz will pick her favorite throwback in Part 2 of our decorating throwback series.Until then, happy decorating!
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1:12:24
Ep. 392: Blending Tradition & Trend with KOBEL + CO
We're thrilled to welcome Mallory Robbins and Elizabeth Bennett of Kansas City's design duo KOBEL + CO, who are celebrated for their distinctive style that seamlessly blends timeless treasures with modern aesthetics to create uniquely intimate spaces.
Mallory and Elizabeth share their secrets for crafting moods that capture both heart and style, kicking things off by diving into their client-centered approach, where understanding the desired feel and experience shapes the design journey. You’ll love their tips on using scale, texture, and layered lighting to transform any room into a moody masterpiece.
The design duo also explore the return of traditional entertaining spaces post-pandemic and share great advice on making bold choices in the kitchen. Don’t miss their take on designing imaginative kids' rooms, where creativity knows no bounds!
***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel***
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast
00:32 Meet the Guests: Mallory Robbins and Elizabeth Bennett
01:10 Design Philosophy: Capturing the Right Vibe
01:50 Client-Centered Design Approach
06:33 Post-Pandemic Design Trends
14:08 The Importance of Scale in Design
17:21 Balancing Function and Aesthetics
27:58 Styling Tips and Tricks
30:34 Accessorizing: Adding Personality to Your Space
31:54 The Art of Rearranging and Styling
33:26 The Beauty of White Kitchens
36:36 Making a Statement with Bold Marbles
41:59 Designing Kids' Rooms with Personality
46:14 Rug Selection and Room Coordination
55:02 Final Tips and Farewell
Decorating Dilemma:
***Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog***
Lauren is seeking advice on selecting rugs for her office and dining room, which are visible from one another. Mallory and Elizabeth recommend anchoring both spaces with complementary sisal rugs for texture and using a unique-patterned runner to tie the spaces together. Additionally, they suggest rearranging the office furniture to create inviting zones while leveraging the beautiful bookshelves as focal points.
Best of luck, Lauren, and we can't wait to see how your inviting spaces come together!
Also Mentioned:
KOBEL + CO | Website
@kobelandco | Instagram
Ballard Designs
Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube
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59:06
Ep. 391: Designing a Healthier Home with Kishani Perera
This week, Caroline and Liz welcome the visionary interior designer Kishani Perera, who merges aesthetics with health to create her signature Healthy Homes™. Kishani's approach to design emphasizes the use of curated, non-toxic materials and thoughtful design choices that not only respect the environment but also enhance the physical well-being of her clients.
Kishani discusses her evolution as a designer over the past 20 years, touching on everything from the beauty of antiques to her health challenges that inspired her focus on creating non-toxic living spaces. She provides invaluable insights on the importance of reusing materials and how these practices add character and warmth to a home. Join us as she shares her holistic view on design and how beautiful interiors can promote a healthier lifestyle.
***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel***
What You’ll Hear On This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate
00:34 Welcoming Kishani Perera
01:54 Kishani's Design Evolution and Aesthetic
04:19 The Importance of Antiques and Flea Market Finds
11:17 Discovering and Addressing Health Concerns in Design
17:34 Tips for Identifying Indoor Toxins
23:19 Practical Solutions for Creating Healthier Homes
28:34 The Rise of Eco-Friendly and Non-Toxic Design Materials
33:22 Elevating Spaces with Vintage Elements and Artwork
42:55 Client Relationships: Personalizing Design
45:45 Kishani’s Favorite Organic Materials
51:52 Decorating Dilemmas: Expert Advice for Listeners
58:49 Conclusion and What's Next in Sustainable Design
Decorating Dilemma:
**Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog**
Hi Karen,
Kishani and the hosts commend you for your beautiful living room rug choice! Your entryway rug might be causing some color conflict. Kishani suggests a more neutral area rug to harmonize the space while maintaining your original design. She emphasizes the importance of layering by suggesting a light fixture and possibly painting your doors to pop with color.
Best of luck with your space, and we hope these tips will help refine your entryway!
- How to Decorate
Also Mentioned:
Kishani Perera | Website
@kishaniperera | Instagram
Healthy Homes™
Ballard Designs
Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube
We want to teach you how to decorate! We'll help you unleash your inner decorator with interviews from interior designers, sharing the trials and triumphs from our own homes, and answering your burning decorating questions. Brought to you from the Ballard Designs team.