Episode Summary: "Adding Twists to Tradition with Andrew Howard"

Podcast Information:

• Title: How to Decorate
• Host/Author: Ballard Designs
• Episode: Ep. 418: Adding Twists to Tradition with Andrew Howard
• Release Date: June 17, 2025

1. Introduction of Guest: Andrew Howard's Background

The episode kicks off with hosts Caroline and Liz welcoming Andrew Howard, a Jacksonville-based interior designer renowned for his lively and traditional interiors. Andrew’s journey into design was influenced heavily by his family, as his parents and sister are all interior designers. Despite not initially planning to follow in their footsteps, Andrew found his passion after working in his parents' design store post-college.

Andrew Howard [02:09]: "I don't think I really ever realized I wanted to be a designer... It just sort of happened and I'm glad it did."

2. Design Philosophy: Adding Playful Elements to Traditional Design

Andrew emphasizes creating spaces that reflect the personalities of the inhabitants. He strives for each room to offer a new experience without necessarily needing to maintain a uniform theme throughout the house. This approach allows for the incorporation of bold colors and unique patterns, making each room distinct yet cohesive within the overall style of the home.

Andrew Howard [04:32]: "I've never been a big believer that rooms should connect. I don't think we need to have similar themes in rooms. We can explore something different in each room."

3. Color Palettes and Patterns

A significant aspect of Andrew’s design is his use of vibrant and layered colors. He believes that layering multiple colors brings life and happiness to a room, encouraging homeowners to embrace more than just traditional hues like blue and white. His strategy involves using the color wheel to select complementary colors, enhancing the room's vibrancy without overwhelming it.

Andrew Howard [27:20]: "I think the more colors you layer in, the more the room will sort of feel alive and happy."

4. Unique and Comfortable Furniture

Andrew is passionate about selecting unique furniture pieces that are both comfortable and durable. He prioritizes scale and harmony in his furniture choices to ensure that each piece complements the others in the room. Comfort is paramount, as he dislikes spaces where furniture is uninviting.

Andrew Howard [07:54]: "I'm really big on scale and I'm really big on unique pieces. You don't want to have a tiny chair next to a big wing back chair."

5. Approach to Floor Plans and Ceilings

Andrew underscores the importance of starting with a solid floor plan, ensuring that furniture fits well within the space. He also advocates for making ceilings interesting elements of the room, whether through architectural features, wallpaper, or color, as they often leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Andrew Howard [33:01]: "The floor plan is the house and the floor plan is what you got, and it doesn't lie... and then your ceiling needs to be interesting."

6. Evolving Style and Projects

Reflecting on his evolution as a designer, Andrew acknowledges his progression from the traditional styles showcased in his 2021 book, Style Comfort Home, to more bold and patterned designs in recent projects. He continuously seeks to push his creative boundaries, whether through residential or commercial spaces like restaurants and bars.

Andrew Howard [13:24]: "I'm always self reflecting and looking at ways that I can do things better."

7. Commercial Projects: Restaurants and Bars

Transitioning into commercial design has allowed Andrew to explore different facets of interior design, focusing on durability and functionality. Designing spaces like bars involves anticipating high-traffic areas and ensuring furniture can withstand frequent use and spills.

Andrew Howard [25:41]: "The bowl of chili got spilled at this house on accident. The bowl of chili will get spilled at the restaurant. No doubt."

8. Personal Life and Its Impact on Design

Andrew integrates his personal life into his design philosophy, emphasizing the importance of family-friendly and durable spaces. He has implemented creative solutions like "Captain's Hour," a designated screen-free time and space for him and his wife, demonstrating how design can support family dynamics.

Andrew Howard [37:11]: "We have this thing called Captain's Hour where we hang out at night for 30 minutes with no kids and talk."

9. Painting Trim and Millwork

When addressing traditional elements like wood trim in historic homes, Andrew advises evaluating whether the trim was originally meant to be painted or stained. He recommends painting to add interest and tie elements together, especially when paired with vibrant wallpapers.

Andrew Howard [42:14]: "A painted colored trim is always going to be more interesting to someone who hasn't seen that before."

10. Favorite Projects and Inspirations

Andrew showcases his personal project, the Hidden Hollow house, highlighting his use of primary colors and patterned elements inspired by pop culture, such as the iconic wallpaper from "Home Alone." This project exemplifies his ability to blend whimsical elements with traditional design seamlessly.

Andrew Howard [46:12]: "Hidden Hollow is where I'm sitting right now. It's my house... designed to reflect what a designed house looks like."

11. Future Aspirations and Locations

Looking ahead, Andrew expresses interest in designing homes in diverse locations like the Pacific Northwest, London, Paris, and even Alaska. He is eager to explore different color palettes and architectural styles beyond his usual coastal influences.

Andrew Howard [52:22]: "The Pacific Northwest would be great... overseas would be amazing."

12. Books and Social Media Presence

Andrew discusses his published book, Style Comfort Home, and teases his upcoming comedic decorating book, Comforts of Home, set to release in September. He also shares his Instagram handle (@AndrewJhow) and encourages listeners to follow his work for ongoing inspiration and humor.

Andrew Howard [55:07]: "My website is andrewjhoward.com and Instagram @AndrewJhow."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Andrew Howard [02:09]: "I don't think I really ever realized I wanted to be a designer... It just sort of happened and I'm glad it did."
• Andrew Howard [04:32]: "I've never been a big believer that rooms should connect. I don't think we need to have similar themes in rooms."
• Andrew Howard [07:54]: "I'm really big on scale and I'm really big on unique pieces."
• Andrew Howard [27:20]: "I think the more colors you layer in, the more the room will sort of feel alive and happy."
• Andrew Howard [33:01]: "The floor plan is the house and the floor plan is what you got, and it doesn't lie... and then your ceiling needs to be interesting."
• Andrew Howard [42:14]: "A painted colored trim is always going to be more interesting to someone who hasn't seen that before."
• Andrew Howard [46:12]: "Hidden Hollow is where I'm sitting right now. It's my house... designed to reflect what a designed house looks like."

Conclusion

In this episode, Andrew Howard shares his unique approach to blending traditional design with playful and vibrant elements. From his family-influenced beginnings to his evolving style that embraces bold colors and patterns, Andrew offers valuable insights for homeowners and aspiring designers alike. His emphasis on functionality, comfort, and personal expression underscores his commitment to creating spaces that are both beautiful and livable. Listeners are encouraged to explore his work further through his books and social media channels.