Podcast Summary: Dear Alice | Interior Design – Episode: 6 Ways to Add Softness to a Space

Release Date: January 30, 2025

Hosts: Jessica Bennett and Suzanne Hall
Title: 6 Ways to Add Softness to a Space

In this engaging episode of Dear Alice, interior design experts Jessica Bennett and Suzanne Hall delve into practical strategies for infusing softness into living spaces. Responding to a listener's query about managing angular, square-heavy interiors, the hosts outline six effective methods to create a more inviting and comfortable environment. Their conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes, expert insights, and witty exchanges, making the episode both informative and delightful for listeners new and familiar alike.

1. Rugs: The Foundation of Softness

Jess emphasizes the transformative power of rugs in any room. Rugs not only add visual warmth but also contribute to sound absorption, making spaces feel cozier.

Jess (07:36): "Rugs are the first piece of art that you're gonna put down in the room. They soften the room visually and texturally."

Jessica adds that large, patterned rugs can create a sense of movement and stretch the perception of space.

Jess (08:40): "By placing a rug with sweeping patterns or a medallion, you stretch your eye from corner to corner, making the room feel larger and more dynamic."

Key Takeaways:

• Opt for large rugs to anchor the space.
• Choose patterns that introduce movement and soften visual lines.
• Rugs also help in reducing noise levels, enhancing comfort.

2. Drapery: Elegance and Acoustics

Drapery serves a dual purpose by softening both the visual and auditory aspects of a room. Suzanne highlights the importance of extending curtains beyond window frames to maximize their impact.

Suzanne (12:25): "Drapery is going to soften your space visually and help absorb sound on those big walls."

They discuss the aesthetic and functional benefits of using high-quality drapes:

Jess (14:06): "Window treatments make the room feel finished, like mascara completes eye makeup. They can make rooms feel taller and wider."

Key Takeaways:

• Extend curtain rods beyond window edges for a dramatic effect.
• Utilize layered fabrics, including sheers, to add depth and softness.
• Select drapes that complement the room’s color palette to unify the space.

3. Color and Paint: Creating a Warm Palette

Adding color through paint can significantly soften a room’s angularity. Jess advocates for a "color drench" approach, where walls and ceilings share a harmonious hue.

Jess (17:27): "By taking color from the walls and extending it to the ceiling, you diffuse harsh lines and create a blanket of warmth over the space."

Suzanne reinforces the idea of using organic and flowing colors to enhance softness.

Suzanne (18:18): "Plaster gives color movement and soft texture, creating a spiritual and extraordinary atmosphere."

Key Takeaways:

• Use cohesive color schemes that flow from walls to ceilings.
• Incorporate soft, organic hues to mellow out sharp angles.
• Consider textured paint or plaster for added depth and softness.

4. Art: Personalizing and Softening Spaces

Art is described as the "heartbeat" of a home, bringing personality and softness through visual narratives.

Jess (19:17): "Art adds softness by providing subject matter to focus on, telling a story, and introducing color and movement."

They discuss the importance of thoughtful framing and how art can transform a sterile space into a vibrant, lived-in home.

Jess (21:06): "Great framing can elevate art, making the entire wall composition more interesting and adding a human touch."

Key Takeaways:

• Select artwork that resonates personally and complements the room’s color scheme.
• Use creative framing to enhance the visual appeal of art pieces.
• Layer different types of art to add depth and interest to walls.

5. Lighting: Setting the Mood with Soft Illumination

Proper lighting is crucial in creating a soft and inviting atmosphere. The hosts advocate for using warm LED bulbs and incorporating varied light sources.

Suzanne (23:07): "Replace all your light bulbs with 2700 Kelvin bulbs to achieve a soft white glow that enhances the room’s warmth."

Jessica adds the significance of layered lighting, including lamps over harsh overheads, to foster a cozy environment.

Jess (25:00): "Using dimmers allows you to control the ambiance, making spaces feel more intimate and relaxing."

Key Takeaways:

• Utilize warm white LED bulbs (around 2700 Kelvin) to create a soft illumination.
• Incorporate multiple light sources, such as table lamps and sconces, to layer light effectively.
• Install dimmer switches to adjust brightness according to the desired mood.

6. Plants: Bringing Life and Softness

Plants are pivotal in softening spaces by introducing natural elements and organic lines. The hosts highlight how greenery can transform a room's aesthetic and improve air quality.

Suzanne (27:30): "Plants add sculpture, movement, and height, making spaces feel more alive and less rigid."

Jessica shares personal experiences with large plants, emphasizing their impact on room dynamics.

Jess (30:08): "A big planter with a thriving plant can make your room look exotic and give it a designer touch."

Key Takeaways:

• Integrate various plant sizes to add depth and interest.
• Choose low-maintenance plants if upkeep is a concern.
• Position plants strategically to enhance natural light and complement room layouts.

Conclusion

In this episode, Jessica and Suzanne provide a comprehensive guide to infusing softness into interiors, balancing aesthetic appeal with functionality. From rugs and drapery to art and plants, each strategy is presented with actionable tips and personal insights, making the advice accessible and relatable. Their emphasis on creating warm, inviting spaces through thoughtful design elements serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their home’s comfort and style.

Notable Quotes:

• Jessica (08:40): "An organic-shaped rug can stretch your eye from corner to corner, making the room feel larger and more dynamic."
• Suzanne (12:25): "Drapery is going to soften your space visually and help absorb sound on those big walls."
• Jess (19:17): "Art is the heartbeat of the house, telling your story and adding so much softness and interest."
• Suzanne (23:07): "Replace all your light bulbs with 2700 Kelvin bulbs to achieve a soft white glow that enhances the room’s warmth."

Whether you're dealing with a room filled with sharp angles or simply seeking ways to make your living space more inviting, Dear Alice offers practical and stylish solutions. Subscribe to their podcast for more insights and tips on elevating your interior design game.