Podcast
How to Decorate
Hosted by Ballard Designs · EN
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.
109episodes
Episodes
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Ep. 422: Trials and Triumphs
Jul 15, 202500:52:44Summary readyJoin Caroline, Liz, and Taryn as they dive into their latest decorating trials and triumphs! In this episode, they share personal stories about DIY projects, home renovations, and creative adventures that highlight the joys—and sometimes challenges—of home decorating. Taryn kicks things off with her resourceful project dyeing bed skirts to match her bedroom wallpaper, achieving the perfect subtle blue-green shade. She also updates us on finishing a mural in her dining room and the ongoing process of finding just the right art for her space—plus the emotional satisfaction of checking rooms off her list. Liz discusses her basement storage renovation, highlighting lessons learned about contractor communication and expectations management. She also shares her experience with choosing a new paint color for her dining room, exploring how natural light and outdoor elements influence colors throughout the seasons. Caroline talks about her recent needlepoint stockings for her family—offering insights into her creative process and upcoming upholstery projects, including a custom daybed for her daughter. And before wrapping up, they all share some fun travel plans, like Liz's sidecar tour of Paris and Caroline's upcoming trip to France. What You'll Hear on This Episode: 0:00 Introduction & Quick Updates 1:00 Dyeing Bed Skirts & Finishing the Dining Room Mural 6:45 Decorating Challenges & Room Checklists 11:20 Basement Storage Renovation: Lessons & Expectations 16:30 Painting Colors & Seasonal Light Effects 27:00 Creative Projects: Stockings & Upholstery Plans 37:00 Travel Tales & Paris Adventures 42:00 Wrap-up & Housekeeping Also Mentioned: Shop Ballard Designs | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummaryEp. 421: Relaxed Elegance with Brittany Bromley
Jul 8, 202500:59:13Summary readyCaroline and Liz welcome New York-based designer and author Brittany Bromley, known for her traditional interiors with layered patterns. Brittany shares insights from her new book, 'Relaxed Elegance,' and the inspiration behind her use of antique aesthetics mixed with luxurious details. Brittany also discusses her own home renovation and her design process, including the courageous use of patterns, colors, and textures in her projects. From transforming neglected homes to crafting customized room designs, Bromley's work reflects a mix of elegance and lived-in comfort, tailored to the personalities and needs of her clients. What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:34 Meet Brittany Bromley: Designer and Author 01:18 Brittany's Home: A Designer's Vision 04:13 The Dining Room Transformation 12:29 The Art of Pattern Mixing 24:37 Bridge Hampton Residence: Humor and Tradition 27:19 Designing Double-Height Living Rooms 31:54 The Impact of a Large Window 32:20 Incorporating Color in Neutral Spaces 32:54 Choosing Muted Colors 34:09 The Role of Patterns and Textures 37:19 The Evolution of Textile Design 39:34 The Versatility of Natural Fiber Rugs 40:58 Creating Relaxed Elegance 42:11 The Importance of Patina and Layering 43:42 Using Marble in Kitchens 48:46 Balancing Cool and Warm Colors 51:58 Designing for Different Locations 53:39 The Rise of Performance Textiles 55:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
SummaryEp. 420: The Secrets of Timeless Design with Miles Redd
Jul 1, 202500:44:06Summary readyIn this delightful episode of How to Decorate from Ballard Designs, hosts Caroline and Liz welcome back the charismatic and imaginative Miles Redd, renowned interior designer and Ballard Designs product design partner. Known for his signature blend of traditional elements with a bold, fantastical twist, Miles shares the latest updates on his partnership with Ballard Designs, including the exciting relaunch of some of his beloved pieces and his upcoming 2026 Outdoor Collection. The conversation explores Miles’ distinct design philosophy, inspired by cinematic visuals and auction finds, and how he masterfully creates deeply layered and memorable interiors. This episode also features a listener’s decorating dilemma, where Miles offers expert advice on selecting the perfect flooring to complement cherry wood cabinets. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:34 Special Guest: Miles Redd 01:33 Miles Redd's Design Philosophy 02:34 The Regency Mirror and Other Pieces 04:55 Inspiration and Auction Finds 08:32 Cinematic Design and Movie Inspirations 21:06 Upcoming Collections and Exciting Releases 23:10 Elegant Table Settings and Bamboo Details 24:00 Exciting New Projects and Collaborations 25:20 Luxurious Home Designs and Inspirations 28:45 The Grand Millennial Trend 31:51 Minimalist Aesthetics and Client Preferences 37:19 Decorating Dilemmas and Solutions 43:00 Final Thoughts and Farewell
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Ep. 419: Design Reimagined with Corey Damen Jenkins
Jun 24, 202501:04:22Summary readyCaroline and Liz engage welcome Corey Damen Jenkins to the show, principal and CEO of Corey Damen Jenkins & Associates. Renowned across the industry for his exuberant use of color and pattern, this episode offers listeners an exclusive look at his upcoming book, "Design Reimagined," as well as his new YouTube series of the same name. Corey shares his remarkable journey from the automotive industry to the heights of the design world, highlighting the importance of flexibility in design and life. He provides practical tips for layering, combining styles, and using anchor pieces, offering valuable insights for both seasoned professionals and budding decorators. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate Podcast 00:34 Special Guest: Corey Damen Jenkins 01:34 Corey’s Journey: From Automotive to Interior Design 03:34 The 779th Door: A Turning Point 06:07 Overcoming Rejection and Finding Success 09:58 Design Philosophy and Generosity 11:27 Design Reimagined: The New Book 15:13 Flexibility in Design and Life 21:03 Combining Traditional and Modern Elements 27:58 Practical Tips for Layering and Mixing Styles 34:38 The Importance of Scale in Design 34:52 Living Room: The True Heart of the Home 36:20 Sectionals: Love-Hate Relationship 38:52 A Bold Upper East Side Apartment 42:16 The Power of Jewel Tones 49:29 Designing for Families and Functionality 51:30 Launching a YouTube Series 58:05 Anchor Pieces and Budgeting Tips 01:02:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Also Mentioned: ballarddesigns.com | Shop Now coreydamenjenkins.com | Designer Website @coreydamenjenkins | Designer IG Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (podcast@ballarddesigns.net) . And, of course, please subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already in Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a new episode. Happy Decorating!
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Ep. 418: Adding Twists to Tradition with Andrew Howard
Jun 17, 202500:58:54Summary readyThis week, Caroline and Liz sit down with Jacksonville-based interior designer Andrew Howard: Renowned for his vibrant take on traditional design, Andrew shares his journey from working in his parents' design store to becoming a celebrated designer. The discussion explores how to inject playful elements into traditional spaces, highlighting the significance of color, unexpected accents, and personal touches in creating inviting homes. Andrew also delves into the nitty-gritty of selecting durable, comfortable furniture and the process of designing spaces that reflect individuality. He also previews his new book, set for release in September, and muses on the creative inspiration that fuels his unique projects. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:33 Meet Andrew Howard: A Journey in Design 01:40 Design Philosophy: Playful Traditional Interiors 03:20 Creating Unique and Comfortable Spaces 07:53 The Importance of Scale and Comfort 09:48 Exploring Bold Patterns and Colors 12:38 Andrew's New Book and Instagram Insights 24:44 Commercial Design Challenges 30:12 Unexpected Office Takeover 30:55 Kids' Influence on Home Decor 32:40 The Importance of Floor Plans 34:15 Ceiling Design Insights 36:58 Essential Room Elements 38:09 The Captain's Hour Concept 40:21 Painting and Refinishing Woodwork 44:41 Exploring Color in Design 46:06 Personal Home Design Stories 52:17 Dream Project Locations 54:01 Final Thoughts and Farewell Also Mentioned: ballarddesigns.com | Shop Now andrewjhoward.com | Designer Website @andrewjhow | Designer IG Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (podcast@ballarddesigns.net) . And, of course, please subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already in Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a new episode. Happy Decorating!
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Ep. 417: Crafting Colorful Elegance with Palmer Weiss
Jun 10, 202501:02:03Summary readyCaroline & Liz welcome renowned interior designer Palmer Weiss to discuss her unique journey into design. Originally from Charleston, S.C. and now based in San Fransisco, CA, Palmer launched her eponymous firm in 2002 and has since become renowned across the industry for blending traditional interiors with modern twists. In this episode, Palmer shares her approach to using color as a neutral, drawing inspiration from fabric, light, and personal experiences. Her insights provide a deep dive into maintaining sophistication and timelessness in spaces that appeal to both modern and traditional tastes. From the challenges of balancing practical items in design to making bold choices, Palmer offers listeners practical tips for creating harmonious interiors that resonate personally and aesthetically. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:33 Meet Palmer Weiss: A Journey from Charleston to San Francisco 01:21 The Art of Using Color in Interior Design 02:00 Palmer's Background and Path to Interior Design 03:38 Launching a Design Firm: Challenges and Triumphs 08:52 Exploring Color and Pattern in Design 22:43 Client Projects and Design Philosophy 30:05 Family and Nature-Inspired Design 31:08 The Role of Upholstery in Room Design 32:12 Practicality and Color Choices 33:43 Designing for Families and Imperfections 36:15 Creating Timeless Interiors 43:35 Balancing Modern and Traditional Elements 51:27 Designing Multipurpose Spaces 53:28 Approaching Window Treatments 57:42 Conclusion and Where to Find More of Palmer's Work Also Mentioned: ballarddesigns.com | Shop Now palmerweiss.com | Designer Website @palmerweiss | Designer IG Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (podcast@ballarddesigns.net) . And, of course, please subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already in Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a new episode. Happy Decorating!
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Ep. 416: Home Is Where The Heart Is with Olivia Westbrooks
Jun 3, 202500:58:32Summary readyCaroline and Liz—joined by guest host Nakyrna Milner from Ballard Designs—welcome award-winning Atlanta designer Olivia Westbrooks. Known for her vibrant use of color and emotional approach to home design, Olivia discusses her new television show, 'Homes is Where the Heart Is,' on Hallmark Plus. The show highlights her journey of transforming family homes filled with emotional significance. Olivia also shares insights into balancing bold colors with a client’s personal tastes, the challenges of filming a design show, and how she manages her creative projects alongside family life. The episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for anyone passionate about creating homes with true heart and soul. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:35 Meet the Hosts and Special Guests 00:51 Nakyrna Milner's Background and Expertise 01:10 Introducing Olivia Westbrooks 02:44 Olivia's Journey to Television 04:35 The Emotional Connection to Home 07:44 Challenges of Filming a Design Show 13:53 Balancing Creativity and Client Needs 22:27 Color Theory and Design Tips 24:50 Fun with Color Pairing 31:40 Navigating Color Choices 31:58 Trusting Your Instincts 32:40 The Squint Test 34:26 Exploring Unused Colors 37:58 Trends in Design 39:52 The Comeback of Glass Blocks 45:34 Balancing Art and Life 48:16 Creative Passions and Family 52:19 The Joy of Needlepoint 55:30 Encouraging Authenticity 56:49 Show Information and Farewell Also Mentioned: ballarddesigns.com | Shop Now oliviawestbrooks.com | Designer Website @oliviawestbrooksinteriors | Designer IG Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (podcast@ballarddesigns.net) . And, of course, please subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already in Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a new episode. Happy Decorating!
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Ep. 415: Embracing Bold Design with Susan Ferrier
May 27, 202500:58:39Summary readyCaroline and Liz welcome back the renowned interior designer Susan Ferrier to the show. Known for her dramatic, atmospheric interiors that blend boldness with practicality, Susan shares insights from her recent projects and design philosophy. This episode delves into creating emotionally resonant rooms, balancing light and dark elements, and transforming architectural challenges into stunning focal points. Susan also provides practical advice on choosing fabrics and creating effective window treatments, while emphasizing the emotional impacts of well-designed spaces. The episode wraps up with Susan offering expert solutions to listener questions about maximizing light in tricky spaces. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:34 Welcoming Back Susan Ferrier 02:17 Susan's Recent Projects and Inspirations 03:19 The Villa Viola Project 09:58 Designing with Bold Colors and Unique Elements 23:24 Creating Functional and Aesthetic Spaces 31:29 Anthropomorphizing Furniture 32:40 The Role of Kitchen Islands 34:13 Balancing Fabrics and Colors 41:42 Creating Emotional Spaces 43:18 Personal Design Philosophy 50:17 Advice on Window Treatments 56:58 Conclusion and Contact Information Also Mentioned: ballarddesigns.com | Shop Now Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (podcast@ballarddesigns.net) . And, of course, please subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already in Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a new episode. Happy Decorating!
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Ep. 414: 100 Ways to Feel at Home with Emma Kemper
May 20, 202500:55:58Summary readyCaroline and Liz sit down to chat with New York-based interior designer and author Emma Barrell Kemper, who shares insights from her new book, House Rules: 100 Ways to Feel at Home. Tune in to discover practical tips on creating mood boards, selecting paint colors, and future-proofing your home, along with advice on mixing metals for a timeless aesthetic. Emma also discusses key aspects of home design, like budgeting, assembling a shopping list, and choosing the right rugs and furniture. As always, the episode concludes with a listener's decorating dilemma, providing expert recommendations tailored to individual design challenges. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:34 Meet Emma Barrell Kember 01:05 Emma's Book: House Rules 03:51 Gathering Inspiration for Your Project 08:47 Mood Boards vs. Scheming 13:43 The Importance of Paint Schedules 17:43 Common Paint Color Mistakes 20:03 Using Paint to Accentuate or Camouflage 24:17 The Power of the Color Wheel 27:57 Preparing for a Decorating Project 30:26 Handling Unexpected Costs 31:18 Shopping Strategies: Rule of Thirds 33:15 Finding the Right Items While Shopping 34:15 Testing Fabrics and Swatches 38:26 Avoiding Built-In Tech 41:13 Future Proofing Your Home 45:45 Finishing Touches for Your Space 47:30 Decorating Dilemma: Kristen's Living Room 54:46 Conclusion and Farewell Also mentioned: ballarddesigns.com | Shop Now House Rules: 100 Ways to Feel at Home | Order Your Copy Now Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (podcast@ballarddesigns.net) . And, of course, please subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already in Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a new episode. Happy Decorating!
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Ep. 413: Elevating Everyday Design with Kate Figler
May 13, 202501:00:37Summary readyThis week, Caroline and Liz are joined by special guest host Jamie Corona from Ballard Designs' merchandising team as they dive into a delightful conversation with Nashville-based interior designer, Kate Figler. Kate shares her remarkable journey from a kindergarten teacher to a celebrated interior designer with insights into using regional influences to shape beautiful yet practical interiors. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:33 Introductions of Special Guests and Host Announcements 01:53 Meet Kate Figler: A Journey to Design 02:32 Kate’s Path from Education to Decor 11:26 Family-Friendly Design Tips 23:17 Kate’s Nashville Influence 31:52 Kipps Bay Room Challenges 32:59 Venus Drawing Room: A Case Study 35:49 Creating Space Illusions 38:02 Furniture Planning Essentials 45:19 Addressing Listener's Bedroom Query 58:55 Closing Thoughts and Goodbyes Also Mentioned: ballarddesigns.com | Shop Now Kipps Bay Show House Various wall coverings and fabrics by Lilly Wallace Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (podcast@ballarddesigns.net) . And, of course, please subscribe to the podcast if you haven’t already in Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a new episode. Happy Decorating!
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