Podcast Summary: Style-ish – "We Swear by These 6 Home Styling Rules"

Release Date: May 13, 2025
Hosts: Madison Sullivan Thorpe, Joanna Fleming, Rhiannon Joyce (Guest Host)
Special Guest: Bri Turton, Interior Designer and Founder of Studio Bree
Sponsor: Lululemon

Introduction

In this episode of Style-ish, host Madison Sullivan Thorpe, alongside co-hosts Joanna Fleming and guest host Rhiannon Joyce (filling in for Annika), delve into the world of home styling. Joined by interior design expert Bri Turton, the trio explores six essential rules for styling your home, providing listeners with actionable tips to create a warm, inviting, and uniquely personal living space.

Rule 1: Follow the Three, Five, Seven Rule of Decorating

Overview:
The trio discusses the importance of grouping decorative items in odd numbers—specifically threes, fives, and sevens—to create a dynamic and visually interesting space. Bri explains that while even numbers can feel predictable and symmetrical, odd numbers add movement and depth.

Key Points:

• Dynamic Flow: Odd-numbered groupings prevent a stagnant feel and mimic natural patterns.
• Variety in Scale: Mixing different heights and sizes within these groupings enhances visual interest.

Notable Quotes:

• Bri Turton [09:10]: "Even numbers generally feel predictable and symmetrical... Odd numbers create a more dynamic flow and are more visually interesting."
• Madison Sullivan Thorpe [10:05]: "I'll always do photo frames in a trio because I think two together looks quite random."

Practical Tips:

• Use the rule when arranging candles, trays, and photo frames.
• Embrace uneven numbers in areas like coffee tables and bedside tables to add character.

Rule 2: Scent as a Styling Method

Overview:
Scent is highlighted as an often-overlooked aspect of home styling. Bri emphasizes its role in defining different spaces and times through distinct fragrances.

Key Points:

• Invisible Layer: Scent adds an intangible yet impactful dimension to interior design.
• Signature Scents: Creating a unique fragrance profile can personalize a space, akin to how hotels use signature scents.
• Versatile Options: Incorporate scents through candles, incense, reed diffusers, and room sprays.

Notable Quotes:

• Madison Sullivan Thorpe [14:35]: "I think scent is so beautiful because you can add it as an important invisible layer in the styling process."
• Rhiannon Joyce [16:38]: "I love having a signature scent as well. It feels so personal."

Practical Tips:

• Assign specific scents to different areas or times of day (e.g., work hours vs. relaxation).
• Opt for high-quality candles with long burn times or use reed diffusers for subtle, lasting fragrances.
• Consider unique scent delivery methods, like Lumira's volcanic rock sphere.

Rule 3: Building an Interior Style Takes Time

Overview:
The hosts discuss the importance of gradually curating a home's interior to ensure it reflects personal tastes and remains functional.

Key Points:

• Avoid ‘Dust Collecting’ Decor: Bri advises against filling spaces with meaningless items purchased all at once.
• Slow Build: Accumulate meaningful pieces over time for a more authentic and cohesive look.
• Functionality First: Ensure that each addition serves a practical purpose, enhancing the home's usability.

Notable Quotes:

• Bri Turton [22:53]: "I'd rather they have a completely empty bookshelf for two years and gradually start collecting meaningful pieces."
• Madison Sullivan Thorpe [25:27]: "Why don't we do the same with our home as we do with our wardrobe?"

Practical Tips:

• Start with essential spaces like the living room and kitchen before moving to personal areas like the bedroom.
• Use thrift stores and vintage shops to find unique, functional pieces that add character without overwhelming the space.
• Embrace the slow build approach, allowing your home to evolve naturally over time.

Rule 4: Art Can Be Affordable

Overview:
Exploring ways to incorporate art into your home without breaking the bank, Bri offers various strategies for sourcing affordable yet meaningful artwork.

Key Points:

• Alternative Sources: Utilize Facebook Marketplace, Blue Thumb, and online platforms representing local artists.
• Limited Edition Prints: Opt for prints instead of originals to reduce costs while still supporting artists.
• DIY Art: Frame personal items such as tea towels, scarves, or handwritten letters for a personalized touch.

Notable Quotes:

• Bri Turton [33:47]: "Purchasing limited edition prints from your favorite artist is an amazing way to get art that you are excited about for a fraction of the cost."
• Joanna Fleming [35:07]: "Etsy is also a really good place to look for a few trinkets because they're handmade and support local artisans."

Practical Tips:

• Explore online marketplaces and local auctions for budget-friendly art options.
• Personalize your space by framing meaningful personal items or travel souvenirs.
• Invest in versatile frames from thrift stores to display various affordable art pieces.

Rule 5: Determine a Good Trinket

Overview:
Trinkets add character and personal flair to a home. The hosts discuss criteria for selecting meaningful and functional trinkets that enhance their living spaces.

Key Points:

• Eclectic and Personal: Choose items that reflect your personality and experiences.
• Functionality: Opt for trinkets that serve a purpose, such as decorative bowls or candle holders.
• Avoid Trends: Select pieces that hold sentimental value to ensure longevity and personal connection.

Notable Quotes:

• Bri Turton [35:51]: "Each and every piece must tick at least one box, but the goal is for each item to tick two."
• Madison Sullivan Thorpe [37:17]: "I love matchboxes because they collect from places I've been—always a favorite."

Practical Tips:

• Collect trinkets during travels to infuse your home with stories and memories.
• Use trays, photo frames, and candle holders to display trinkets in an organized manner.
• Ensure each trinket has either functional value or sentimental significance to maintain a cohesive aesthetic.

Rule 6: Learn How to Layer Lighting

Overview:
Effective lighting transforms a space, highlighting features and creating ambiance. Bri outlines the different types of lighting and how to layer them for optimal effect.

Key Points:

• Ambient Lighting: The foundation that provides general illumination.
• Task Lighting: Focused lighting for specific activities like reading or cooking.
• Accent Lighting: Highlights artwork or architectural features.
• Decorative Lighting: Enhances the aesthetic appeal while serving other lighting functions.

Notable Quotes:

• Bri Turton [40:12]: "By thinking about lighting with these principles, you'll always be able to create a different lighting sequence based on how you're using the home."
• Joanna Fleming [42:19]: "We can all agree that the big light needs to be canceled. I hate a big light."

Practical Tips:

• Use multiple light sources to create layered lighting effects, such as combining floor lamps with table lamps.
• Incorporate dimmers and smart bulbs to adjust lighting levels according to the time of day or activity.
• Highlight key pieces like artwork with spotlights or accent lights to draw attention and add depth.

Listener Questions

Question from Harriet:
"When you were originally decorating your place, which room did you start with for styling and why?"

Hosts' Responses:

• Joanna Fleming [07:30]: "Living room. I just need my living space to be done first so that I can enjoy being alive."
• Madison Sullivan Thorpe [07:43]: "Living room and kitchen. It feels like an extension and integrates well in open spaces."
• Rhiannon Joyce [07:45]: "Same here, treated as one connected space."

Additional Tips:

• Focus on high-visibility areas first to immediately enhance the enjoyment of your home.
• Ensure that shared spaces are both functional and aesthetically pleasing to accommodate daily activities.

Conclusion

In this insightful episode, Style-ish provides listeners with comprehensive guidance on home styling through six foundational rules. From the strategic placement of decorative items and the subtle power of scent to the gradual cultivation of a personal interior style, the hosts and their expert guest offer practical advice tailored to various tastes and living situations. Whether you're a seasoned decorator or just beginning to style your home, this episode equips you with the tools to create a space that’s both beautiful and uniquely yours.

Notable Mentions:

• Sponsor Highlight: Lululemon’s new Align No Line Pant with no front seam, a decade-long bestseller now enhanced for even smoother comfort.
  • Rhiannon Joyce [13:36]: "The Align Pant has been a best selling style for 10 years... Now with no front seam, it’s an even smoother look and feel."

Stay Connected:
For more tips and to share your own home styling journey, reach out via email at style-ish@shamelessmedia.com or follow them on Instagram at @StylishPod.