Podcast Summary: Ep. 394: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 2)
Release Date: December 31, 2024
Host: Ballard Designs Team (Caroline, Taryn, Liz)
Guests: Brooke and Layla Gianetti
Introduction and Recap
In the second installment of the "Decorating Throwback Series," the hosts—Caroline, Taryn, and Liz from the Ballard Designs team—dive deep into their favorite past podcast episodes. They reminisce about memorable interviews with various interior design experts and share personal anecdotes about how these episodes have influenced their own decorating styles.
Reflecting on Favorite Throwback Episodes
Liz opens the conversation by expressing her admiration for previous guests, particularly Kathy Graham from Episode 338, whose insights into floral arrangements have empowered her to become "fearless about floral arranging." She fondly recalls learning to create comfortable and cozy art displays from Philip Mitchell in Episode 217, noting, “Now I always hang art a little bit lower and a little bit more cozy” (02:13).
Liz also shares her excitement about Kristin Kong’s episode, which inspired her to transform her family room with a "purple aubergine bedroom" palette, leading her to a spontaneous trip to the paint store (02:31). The hosts celebrate other unforgettable episodes, including those featuring Latham Gordon, Kate Dunning, and the Gianetti family across Episodes 90, 317, and 318, highlighting the vibrant and engaging content that has enriched their decorating journeys.
In-Depth Interview: Brooke and Layla Gianetti
The Gianetti Family Move to Tennessee
The centerpiece of this episode is an in-depth interview with Brooke and Layla Gianetti, a mother-daughter duo who have recently relocated from California to Tennessee to establish Patina Meadow. Caroline introduces them by referencing Brooke's popular blog, Velvet and Linen, and their extensive publishing work.
Layla explains the thoughtful decision behind their move, emphasizing the desire to connect with the community physically rather than online:
"We really couldn't have events at Patina Farm. And we really had the desire to not just share it online, but to really connect with people in the real world." (08:38)
Establishing Patina Meadow and The Shed
The conversation delves into the practical aspects of setting up Patina Meadow. Layla discusses their innovative approach to living spaces, opting for a smaller, charming log house complemented by a spacious "Shed" that serves as their pottery studio and event space:
"The shed is probably three times as big as the house right now...I just loved it and it works for us." (13:01)
Brooke adds, highlighting their current living arrangement in an Airstream parked by a creek, which has become a permanent and beloved part of their farm life:
"It's becoming this permanent fixture of Patina Meadow, which is really cool and I'm ecstatic about it now." (16:11)
Embracing Biodynamic Farming
A significant portion of the interview focuses on their commitment to biodynamic farming. Brooke provides an overview of biodynamics, emphasizing its holistic approach:
"Biodynamics is looking at the farm as one organism where everything is intertwined and everything is linked." (26:24)
They discuss the challenges of transitioning to Tennessee's clay and rocky soil, adapting their planting techniques, and embracing the benefits of seasonal changes:
"It's like a whole new opportunity has just sort of opened up right in front of our eyes, and I'm stoked about it." (29:27)
The Bloomery Flower Garden
Brooke introduces the Bloomery, a versatile space dedicated to cut flowers, vegetables, and medicinal herbs. She elaborates on their vision to create a space that fosters community connection and offers educational opportunities:
"Everything we're doing is through that lens because that is what has really motivated us through this whole move and through the last few years." (31:03)
Building a Pottery Studio and Community Engagement
The Shed, their pottery studio, is another key project. Brooke shares her journey into pottery, from initial classes to teaching others, and the importance of creating a communal space for artistic expression:
"We're really excited about that aspect of it...a place where artists can come and share their knowledge." (43:05)
Layla emphasizes the goal of fostering a collaborative environment:
"Patina Meadow are all about learning together...we're all unique pieces of this crazy woven tapestry." (45:50)
Managing the Farm and Team
Balancing multiple roles on the farm, Brooke and Layla discuss their team members and the hands-on nature of their work. They highlight the importance of flexibility and continual learning:
"It's lot, but it's great...quiet the monkey mind." (35:28)
Social Media Presence and Sharing Their Journey
Their active presence on Instagram serves as a bridge between Patina Meadow and a broader audience. Brooke speaks about the positive impact of sharing their daily life and farming routines:
"Our community extends with, like, beyond the reaches of Leapers Fork. And that is really awesome." (49:56)
Layla discusses the balance between documenting and living their lives, focusing on authentic moments:
"I find that that's a little bit easier. I can take a few moments and say, hey, here's this." (50:00)
Future Plans and Projects
Looking ahead, Brooke and Layla reveal plans for expanding their offerings, including more classes, artist residencies, and potentially a bed and breakfast:
"The space will become an amalgamation of all of our interests, of the community, of us." (47:09)
Layla envisions a collaborative future where community members can learn and share various skills, enhancing the communal spirit of Patina Meadow:
"This is an opportunity for us to kind of find those people and for us all to learn from each other." (48:01)
Design Dilemma: Helping Allison Add Color and Warmth
Towards the episode's end, the hosts address a listener's decorating dilemma submitted by Allison. Having recently renovated her living, dining, and kitchen area, Allison seeks advice on incorporating more color and warmth without overwhelming her space.
Layla offers practical solutions, advising a balanced approach with a mix of patterned and solid throw pillows in blues and greens to complement her existing color palette:
"If you could find one kind of pillow that has a pattern and then do take some of the colors out of that and use...solid [...] to add some softness." (66:48)
She recommends maintaining a cohesive look by using neutral colors for larger elements like curtains and introducing color through accessories such as placemats, artistically placed plants, and meaningful artwork:
"A platter or something...to add something meaningful to her family." (71:09)
Additional tips include ensuring curtain panels provide "stacking room" (70:46), selecting hardware that complements existing dark metals, and varying textures with throws for seasonal versatility.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with heartfelt appreciation for Brooke and Layla's inspiring journey in establishing Patina Meadow. The hosts express admiration for their dedication to building a thriving, interconnected community space and encourage listeners to engage with their content for ongoing decorating inspiration.
Liz and Taryn reflect on the positive energy Brooke and Layla bring, envisioning future collaborations and visits to their picturesque farm. The hosts encourage listeners to subscribe, leave reviews, and stay connected through Ballard Designs' social media channels.
For more detailed insights and decorating tips, visit howtodecorate.com/podcast and follow Ballard Designs on social media.