Podcast Summary

Podcast: How to Decorate by Ballard Designs
Episode: 448 – The Art of the Edit with Page House Studio
Date: January 13, 2026
Guests: Meredith Paige and Liz Livingston, Page House Studio

Episode Overview

This episode centers around the concept of “the art of the edit” in interior decorating, featuring Meredith Paige and Liz Livingston of Page House Studio. The conversation explores how effective editing leads to elevated, purposeful spaces, with a deep dive into the design philosophy and product innovations of Page House Studio—particularly their signature pedestals and artisanal accents. The hosts and guests share practical styling advice and answer a listener's design dilemma, making this episode a rich source of inspiration for both DIY decorators and design professionals.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Origin Story: How Page House Studio Came to Be

• Meredith and Liz, childhood friends from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, have followed each other through different cities and careers (01:17).
• They reunited in Atlanta and launched Page House Studio, combining Meredith’s interior design experience with Liz’s background in entertainment, textiles, and retail (02:23).
• The business began to flourish during the pandemic, first with design projects, then launching their own product line focusing on edited, bespoke pieces (03:22).

“We are kind of inseparable and it’s great.” – Liz (01:09)

The Signature Product: The Art and Utility of Pedestals

• Their core product is the pedestal—a versatile, often overlooked element that transforms “dead” corners and blank walls into styled focal points (04:17).
• Meredith noticed in her work that many homeowners didn’t know about pedestals, even though designers often use them to finish spaces elegantly (05:00).
• The pedestal acts as both artwork and a base for rotating displays, promoting ongoing creativity in the home.

“There was always just this one design element...and it was a pedestal. Whatever material...we always integrated one into the style and it finished a room so perfectly.” – Meredith (04:49)

Crafting the Perfect Pedestal: Materials and Process

• Early prototypes were handmade, with help from Meredith’s father, highlighting the brand’s commitment to artisanal quality (09:06-10:07).
• Various finishes are offered—grasscloth, paper mache, limewash, and plaster—intentionally neutral to blend seamlessly but provide rich textures (11:34).
• Each pedestal is made with craftsmanship in mind: precise seam work, hand-applied wallpaper, and close attention to durability for family homes (10:39).

“It looks so simple, like we wrapped a pedestal in wallpaper, but it’s not. It actually takes some incredible labor.” – Liz (10:29)

The Editing Philosophy: Layering, Texture, and Purpose

• Page House Studio products seek to layer spaces with subtle textures and refined materials for a sophisticated look that feels lived-in (13:22).
• Emphasis is placed on intentionally mixing forms and materials, with updated nods to classical mediums like paper mache, which brings “imperfect” artistry to modern interiors (13:22-14:31).
• The “edit” is about restraint—picking the right items and knowing when a space needs to breathe.

Practical Styling Advice: How (and Where) to Use a Pedestal

• Pedestals are ideal for those empty, awkward corners or in-between spaces that standard furniture doesn’t suit (05:00, 20:08).
• Style with a range of vessels or objects: branches, seasonal decor, art pieces, or a simple plant. Rotate displays to mark time and celebrate seasons (16:08-18:40, 34:25-36:33).
• It’s OK to have several pedestals in one home; vary heights for dynamic vignettes (19:19-19:28).
• The Page House team considers vessel diameters and provides options matched to their pedestals for effortless styling (16:31).

“It feels like a very slender silhouette and very simple. But it really makes an impact if you put something grand on top of it…a perfect solution to any little dead area.” – Meredith (07:50)

Editing in Real Homes: Family-Friendly Design

• Products are tested for sturdiness—important for homes with kids and pets (28:00-29:07).
• The “art of the edit” is about balance; allowing for personal touches and family life while maintaining style.

The Community and Brand Building

• Their website section “The Column” explores real homes, including interviews and inspiration for how their pieces are used in diverse settings (38:10-39:42).
• The goal is to build community, celebrate real (sometimes beautifully messy) homes, and remain creatively fulfilled beyond just interiors and products (38:10-39:19).

“We love seeing the real homes of people who have kids. We don’t want to make it look too perfect.” – Meredith (39:41)

Listener Design Dilemma: Cozying Up a Minnesota Loft

Segment Begins: 41:07
Key Dilemma: Listener Christina wants her loft to feel cozier and more dramatic but struggles with awkward layout and blandness.

Recommendations from the Panel:

• Swap bulky, matching upholstery for a mix of slimmer, more tailored furnishings with lighter or textured fabrics (43:05-44:18).
• Vary materials: add metal and oak, and bring in antique or sculptural pieces for interest (47:54-48:57).
• Consider reducing the number of “smaller” tables for fewer, larger, more impactful pieces (49:29-50:54).
• Group artwork together for bigger visual impact (51:05-51:19).
• Add drapes and woven shades for texture and warmth (47:48-47:54).
• Try a pedestal to elevate plants or objects and solve “dead spots” (50:12-50:18).
• Get playful with layouts—sometimes floating the sofa or flipping furniture can open up space and maximize comfort, especially if TV-watching is the primary activity (52:02-54:02).
• Mix coziness (like throws and pillows in cream and ivory tones) with intentional editing for a more curated effect.

“I just feel like it’s a very sophisticated way to highlight a space that may otherwise just feel… blank.” – Meredith (30:30)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the “Aha” of the Pedestal:
  “There was always just this one design element… and it was a pedestal. Whatever material…we always integrated one into the style and it finished a room so perfectly.” – Meredith (04:49)
• On the Craft:
  “It looks so simple, like we wrapped a pedestal in wallpaper, but it’s not. It actually takes some incredible labor.” – Liz (10:29)
• Family & Function:
  "My kids say the word pedestal all the time...If you give it that spot in your home and you constantly have a different version of it that excites them, that’s a really special thing.” – Meredith (35:33)
• The “Box” Origin Story:
  “Why are you complicating this? It’s just a box.” – Meredith’s dad, Jerry (36:27)
• On Embracing Real Homes:
  “We don’t want to make it look too perfect…You can still have these elevated moments.” – Meredith (39:41)

Timestamps for Major Segments

• Introduction & Guest Background: 00:33 – 04:17
• Pedestal Product Philosophy: 04:17 – 08:44
• Prototyping and Making the Pedestals: 08:47 – 11:34
• Materials, Texture & Edited Aesthetic: 11:34 – 14:31
• On Slow, Artisanal Craft: 14:31 – 16:31
• How to Style and Use Pedestals: 16:31 – 20:08
• Listener Design Dilemma: 41:07 – 57:47

Resources & Next Steps

• Page House Studio Website: pagehousestudio.com (59:02)
• Shop & Trade Program Info: Online and via inquiry
• Find Page House Studio on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook
• Online Styling Consultations: Via Tald or direct booking for personalized product and styling advice (58:14)
• The Column: Inspirational interviews and real projects featured on their website (38:10)

Final Thoughts

The conversation with Page House Studio is a masterclass in editing interiors: knowing what to add, what to hold back, and how even a humble object (a “box!”) can become the cornerstone of memorable, dynamic home design. The emphasis on craftsmanship, community, and evolving personal style makes this episode a beautiful resource for anyone aiming to design with intention—and a little bit of artistic flair.