🚀 From Google Podcasts to Moon FM in No Time: Your Hassle-Free Migration Guide
👉

How to Decorate

Ballard Designs

How to Decorate

  • 1 hour 9 minutes
    Ep. 396: Classic by Design with Michael S. Smith

    We are thrilled to kick off 2025 by welcoming the legendary Obama White House interior designer Michael S. Smith to the show. With nearly 35 years in the industry, Michael has an incredible wealth of knowledge when it comes to creating beautiful spaces that blend traditional charm with modern elegance. During our conversation, he shares insights from his latest book, "Classic by Design," offering a peek into his unique design approach that celebrates personal taste while respecting the historical and cultural context of each home.

    Michael also opens up about his remarkable experience redesigning the Obama White House, discussing how he balanced personal flair with the expectations of a public space. Plus, we dive into practical tips on selecting cherished antiques and the artful use of color to create harmonious, inviting environments that feel like home. Whether you're looking to refresh your space or simply gain inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable design wisdom and charming anecdotes that you'll want to soak up.

    ***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel***

    What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

    • 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast
    • 00:34 Welcoming Michael S. Smith
    • 02:46 Michael's Design Philosophy and Process
    • 06:15 Photographing and Evolving Design Projects
    • 09:43 Blending Styles and Antiques
    • 16:28 Shonda Rhimes' New York Apartment
    • 22:33 Historic East River Apartment
    • 29:42 Decorating Public Spaces: The Obama White House
    • 33:32 Living with History: White House Furnishings
    • 35:32 Curating the White House Art Collection
    • 37:00 Designing for the Future: Personalization and Adaptability
    • 38:50 Reflecting on Past Projects and Future Aspirations
    • 40:41 Vacation Homes: Embracing Local Culture
    • 43:28 Mountain and Mallorca Homes: Sense of Place
    • 50:05 Material Choices: Craftsmanship and Texture
    • 58:31 The Role of Color in Design
    • 01:04:09 Final Thoughts

    Also Mentioned:

    14 January 2025, 9:00 am
  • 1 hour 30 minutes
    Ep. 395: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 3)

    In the third and final installment of our decorating throwback series, Taryn shares her favorite episode with the group and teases the comprehensive mini-series on home building (episodes 229-232).

    This mini-series brings together a wealth of expertise from interior designer Maggie Griffin, architect Kevin Clark, and builder Aaron Burgess. The conversations cover essential topics, including how to select the perfect property, make material choices, establish relationships with contractors, and navigate critical design decisions.

    What You'll Hear This Episode:

    • 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast
    • 00:34 Favorite Throwback Episodes
    • 01:52 Building Your Own Home Series
    • 02:49 Episode 229: Featuring Maggie Griffin: Insights into beginning the home construction journey.
    • 03:50 Episode 230: Featuring Kevin Clark: Practical advice on architecture and land selection.
    • 04:19 Episode 231: Featuring Aaron Burgess: Builder perspectives on team dynamics and project execution.
    • 04:55 Episode 232: Interior Design Focus: Finalizing styles and interior details with Maggie Griffin.
    • 06:15 Maternity Leave and Recording Challenges
    • 18:32 Finding the Right Contractor
    • 47:52 Prioritizing Home Features
    • 48:31 Windows and Wildlife
    • 49:22 Faucets and Fixtures
    • 50:41 Lighting and Finishes
    • 51:18 Cabinetry and Flooring
    • 53:14 The 'While You're At It' Phase: Managing Add-Ons
    • 56:04 The Importance of Timelines in Construction
    • 59:23 Walkthroughs and Inspections: Ensuring Satisfaction
    • 01:02:00 Effective Communication with Your Contractor
    • 01:15:55 The Value of Relationships in Construction Projects
    • 01:18:49 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

    Also Mentioned:

    • @maggiegriffindesign | Instagram
    • Ep. 229 w/ Maggie Griffin | Podcast Episode
    • Ep. 230 w/ Kevin Clark | Podcast Episode
    • Ep. 231 w/ Aaron Burgess | Podcast Episode
    • Ep. 232 w/ Interior Design Focus | Podcast Episode
    • Shop Now at Ballard Designs | Ballard Designs Website
    7 January 2025, 9:00 am
  • 1 hour 17 minutes
    Ep. 394: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 2)

    Continuing their series of favorite throwback episodes, Liz, Caroline, and Taryn reminisce on memorable conversations with past guests before shining a special light on Ep. 318* with Brooke and Layla Gianetti.

    Liz urges listeners to listen in to the story of the Gianettis, exploring their transformative journey from California to Tennessee to establish Patina Meadow. Discover the harmonious blend of farming and design and the lessons learned from this unique lifestyle shift. Gain insights into biodynamic farming, developing vibrant garden spaces, and how they are building a community through creativity and collaboration.**

    *This throwback episode was originally published 7/18/2023

    **Follow along with this throwback episode's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog: https://bit.ly/3BMzHtd

    What You'll Hear This Episode:

    • 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast
    • 01:45 Liz's Most Memorable Guests and Episodes
    • 04:00 Reminiscing on the Giannetti Family Episodes
    • 07:36 Interview with Brooke and Layla Gianetti
    • 11:11 Life at Patina Meadow
    • 25:57 Biodynamic Farming and Gardening
    • 31:13 The Bloomery and Future Plans
    • 36:57 Balancing Work and Farm Life
    • 37:44 The Unexpected Arrival of Baby Guinea Fow
    • 39:19 The Origin of Patina Home and Garden
    • 43:04 Discovering Pottery and Teaching Classes
    • 44:58 Building a Community Through Art and Learning
    • 51:23 Design Work and Future Projects
    • 59:31 Decorating Dilemma: Adding Color and Warmth
    • 01:12:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell


    Also Mentioned:


    Tune in next week where Taryn will pick her favorite throwback in Part 3 of 3 of our decorating throwback series. Until then, happy decorating!


    31 December 2024, 9:00 am
  • 1 hour 12 minutes
    Ep. 393: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 1)

    In Part 1 of our new annual throwback series, Caroline, Taryn, and Liz revisit a memorable conversation with Susan Ferrier from Ep. 84* of the show that has inspired Caroline's approach to interior design since.

    Susan Ferrier is a celebrated interior designer from Atlanta, GA. Known for her strategic use of light, texture, and contrast, Ferrier provides listeners with invaluable insights into her design process, emphasizing the thoughtful placement of furniture, the integration of scenic views, and the artful mixing of metals and textures to achieve timeless decor.

    The throwback episode also includes a listener's decorating dilemma** that Susan helped solve, offering advice on successful room layout and effective use of lighting in difficult spaces.

    *This throwback episode was originally published 4/16/2019

    **Follow along with this throwback episode's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog: https://bit.ly/4gzBroH

    What You'll Hear This Episode:

    • 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast
    • 00:33 Reflecting on the Past 400 Episodes of the Show
    • 01:29 Caroline Explains Why She Chose Ep. 84 w/ Susan Ferrier for Pt. 1 of our Throwback Series
    • 05:10 Interview with Susan Ferrier Begins
    • 05:59 Susan Ferrier’s Design Philosophy
    • 14:11 Balancing Client Needs and Personal Style
    • 31:50 Mixing Metals and Timeless Design
    • 36:06 Revamping 80s Houses: Challenges and Solutions
    • 36:20 Lake Martin Project: A Modern Makeover
    • 36:33 Design Tricks: Using Paint and Drapery
    • 39:45 Furniture and Layout: Creating Harmony
    • 44:35 Lighting and Accessories: Enhancing Spaces
    • 53:07 Listener’s Dilemma: Room Layout and Decor
    • 01:07:42 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    Also Mentioned:


    Tune in next week where Liz will pick her favorite throwback in Part 2 of our decorating throwback series.Until then, happy decorating!

    24 December 2024, 9:00 am
  • 59 minutes 6 seconds
    Ep. 392: Blending Tradition & Trend with KOBEL + CO

    We're thrilled to welcome Mallory Robbins and Elizabeth Bennett of Kansas City's design duo KOBEL + CO, who are celebrated for their distinctive style that seamlessly blends timeless treasures with modern aesthetics to create uniquely intimate spaces.

    Mallory and Elizabeth share their secrets for crafting moods that capture both heart and style, kicking things off by diving into their client-centered approach, where understanding the desired feel and experience shapes the design journey. You’ll love their tips on using scale, texture, and layered lighting to transform any room into a moody masterpiece.

    The design duo also explore the return of traditional entertaining spaces post-pandemic and share great advice on making bold choices in the kitchen. Don’t miss their take on designing imaginative kids' rooms, where creativity knows no bounds!

    ***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel***

    What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

    • 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast
    • 00:32 Meet the Guests: Mallory Robbins and Elizabeth Bennett
    • 01:10 Design Philosophy: Capturing the Right Vibe
    • 01:50 Client-Centered Design Approach
    • 06:33 Post-Pandemic Design Trends
    • 14:08 The Importance of Scale in Design
    • 17:21 Balancing Function and Aesthetics
    • 27:58 Styling Tips and Tricks
    • 30:34 Accessorizing: Adding Personality to Your Space
    • 31:54 The Art of Rearranging and Styling
    • 33:26 The Beauty of White Kitchens
    • 36:36 Making a Statement with Bold Marbles
    • 41:59 Designing Kids' Rooms with Personality
    • 46:14 Rug Selection and Room Coordination
    • 55:02 Final Tips and Farewell

    Decorating Dilemma:

    ***Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog***

    Lauren is seeking advice on selecting rugs for her office and dining room, which are visible from one another. Mallory and Elizabeth recommend anchoring both spaces with complementary sisal rugs for texture and using a unique-patterned runner to tie the spaces together. Additionally, they suggest rearranging the office furniture to create inviting zones while leveraging the beautiful bookshelves as focal points.

    Best of luck, Lauren, and we can't wait to see how your inviting spaces come together!

    Also Mentioned:

    17 December 2024, 9:00 am
  • 50 minutes 32 seconds
    Ep. 391: Designing a Healthier Home with Kishani Perera

    This week, Caroline and Liz welcome the visionary interior designer Kishani Perera, who merges aesthetics with health to create her signature Healthy Homes™. Kishani's approach to design emphasizes the use of curated, non-toxic materials and thoughtful design choices that not only respect the environment but also enhance the physical well-being of her clients.

    Kishani discusses her evolution as a designer over the past 20 years, touching on everything from the beauty of antiques to her health challenges that inspired her focus on creating non-toxic living spaces. She provides invaluable insights on the importance of reusing materials and how these practices add character and warmth to a home. Join us as she shares her holistic view on design and how beautiful interiors can promote a healthier lifestyle.

    ***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel***

    What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

    • 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate
    • 00:34 Welcoming Kishani Perera
    • 01:54 Kishani's Design Evolution and Aesthetic
    • 04:19 The Importance of Antiques and Flea Market Finds
    • 11:17 Discovering and Addressing Health Concerns in Design
    • 17:34 Tips for Identifying Indoor Toxins
    • 23:19 Practical Solutions for Creating Healthier Homes
    • 28:34 The Rise of Eco-Friendly and Non-Toxic Design Materials
    • 33:22 Elevating Spaces with Vintage Elements and Artwork
    • 42:55 Client Relationships: Personalizing Design
    • 45:45 Kishani’s Favorite Organic Materials
    • 51:52 Decorating Dilemmas: Expert Advice for Listeners
    • 58:49 Conclusion and What's Next in Sustainable Design


    Decorating Dilemma:

    **Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog**

    Hi Karen,

    Kishani and the hosts commend you for your beautiful living room rug choice! Your entryway rug might be causing some color conflict. Kishani suggests a more neutral area rug to harmonize the space while maintaining your original design. She emphasizes the importance of layering by suggesting a light fixture and possibly painting your doors to pop with color.

    Best of luck with your space, and we hope these tips will help refine your entryway!

    - How to Decorate

    Also Mentioned:

    10 December 2024, 10:18 am
  • 58 minutes 38 seconds
    Ep. 390: Designing Elegance & Comfort with James Thomas

    Liz and Taryn chat with celebrated interior designers James Dolenc and Tom Riker of James Thomas. Since 2003, James and Tom have been transforming homes with their unique design philosophy centered on elegance and comfort. They discuss their journey from commercial interiors to high-end residential design, emphasizing details, historical understanding, and the importance of creating spaces that evoke emotion.

    The conversation covers the duo's design heroes, the significance of team culture, and practical advice for both aspiring designers and homeowners. Additionally, they answer a listener's decorating dilemma about a challenging living room layout, providing thoughtful, expert solutions.

    ***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel***

    What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 

    • 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast
    • 00:34 Meet the Designers: James Dolenz and Tom Riker
    • 01:55 The Journey of James Thomas Firm
    • 04:22 Building a Creative and Supportive Team
    • 05:32 Design Philosophy and Client Interaction
    • 08:10 Advice for Aspiring Interior Designers
    • 14:33 Learning the Craft: From Novices to Experts
    • 20:11 Influences and Inspirations in Design
    • 22:57 Trends and Timeless Design
    • 26:58 Creating Cozy and Inviting Spaces
    • 30:43 Creating Cozy Spaces with Natural Elements
    • 32:56 Designing a British Colonial Inspired Home
    • 34:37 Choosing the Right Wall Colors
    • 36:53 The Importance of Details in Interior Design
    • 38:56 Incorporating Unique Materials and Textures
    • 40:59 A Stunning Tortoise Shell Ceiling
    • 45:40 Listener's Decorating Dilemma: Making an 80s Home Cohesive
    • 54:39 Wrapping Up: Where to Find Us


    Decorating Dilemma:

    **Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog**

    Hi, Joanne!

    James and Tom suggest adding tongue and groove paneling to the ceiling for texture and continuity, incorporating a room-sized sisal rug, and updating window treatments with motorized shades for sun control. They advise lighter accent pillows to add warmth and scale the coffee table for balance. For personalized window solutions, they also recommend consulting a specialist.

    Best of luck, Joanne, and we can’t wait to see your space transformation!

    - How to Decorate


    Also Mentioned:

    3 December 2024, 9:00 am
  • 44 minutes 40 seconds
    Ep. 389: Color Theory with Christine Markatos-Lowe

    Join Caroline and Taryn as we chat with talented Santa Monica-based designer Christine Markatos-Lowe, who dives deep into her innovative theory of color and space.

    Get ready to be inspired as Christine shares her expert insights on mastering the color wheel, sparking emotions through color choices, and her top tips for finding the perfect hue harmony in your home. Discover how to seamlessly blend your existing art and textiles into new designs, and gain a sneak peek into the collaborative dance between designers and architects.

    This week's podcast does not have a YouTube video version.

    What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 

    • 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast
    • 00:34 Meet Christine Marketos Lowe
    • 01:34 Christine's Journey from Fine Art to Design
    • 04:55 The Emotional Impact of Color
    • 09:33 Practical Tips for Using Color in Your Home
    • 23:46 Collaborating with Architects and Clients
    • 29:30 Creating Cohesive Color Palettes
    • 37:39 Christine's Recent Projects and Inspirations
    • 40:54 Conclusion and Where to Find Christine
    • 41:28 Closing Remarks

    Also Mentioned:

    26 November 2024, 9:00 am
  • 1 hour 6 minutes
    Ep. 388: Our 2024 Holiday Hosting Special!

    This week, the ladies come together in Taryn's stunning new dining room for our much-loved annual holiday hosting special (can you believe it’s been a whole year already?! ) The trio are here to spill their personal hosting secrets and cherished holiday traditions, starting with Thanksgiving hosting rituals and meal prep hacks to deep dives into the art of holiday decorating.

    Prepare to be inspired as they chat about all things Christmas trees. Whether you're Team Real or Team Pre-Lit, they've got great ideas to help you find your perfect match. Plus, they’ll share their creative spins on wreaths, stockings, and table settings that will wow your guests. As always, listener questions steal the spotlight: From convincing your partner to embrace a fabulous fake tree to easy-peasy strategies for low-effort, high-impact holiday décor, we cover it all in this year's holiday hosting special. Let’s make this season's decor one to remember!

    Watch this week's episode as recorded on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel; Read our 2024 Holiday Hosting Recipes on the How to Decorate Blog.


    What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 

    • 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate
    • 00:35 Holiday Special Begins at Taryn's House
    • 01:31 Thanksgiving Hosting Tips and Traditions
    • 03:16 Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes and Dishes
    • 07:39 Hosting Strategies and Party Planning
    • 21:03 Thanksgiving Day Chaos and Joy
    • 22:06 Transition to Christmas Preparations
    • 32:45 Seasonal Decorating Tips for Your Home
    • 33:23 Front Porch Christmas Makeover
    • 36:15 Choosing Between Real and Fake Christmas Trees
    • 40:25 Tree Skirts and Stocking Holders
    • 47:11 Holiday Wrapping and Ribbon Ideas
    • 49:32 Holiday Hosting and Dinnerware
    • 01:00:17 Estate Sales for Unique Holiday Gifts
    • 01:03:28 Final Thoughts


    Also Mentioned:

    19 November 2024, 9:00 am
  • 1 hour 49 seconds
    Ep. 387: The Perfect Room with Marie Flanigan

    This week, Taryn and Liz welcome back award-winning interior designer and author Marie Flanagan, who discusses her newest book, 'The Perfect Room: Timeless Designs for Intentional Living.'

    Marie shares insights from her extensive work, including her approach to architectural interiors, the importance of texture, and how to blend elegance with functionality. She also delves into tips for designing entryways, dining rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms, emphasizing the importance of a layered and personal touch in home decor.

    Watch this week's conversation as recorded on Ballard Designs YouTube.


    What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 

    • 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate
    • 00:34 Welcoming Marie Flanagan
    • 01:54 Marie Flanagan's Design Philosophy
    • 04:19 The Perfect Room: Intentional Living
    • 11:17 Designing the Perfect Entryway
    • 17:34 Creating a Layered and Collected Home
    • 23:19 The Importance of Dining Rooms
    • 28:34 Designing Hallways and Staircases
    • 31:59 Signaling Spaces: Welcoming Design Elements
    • 32:22 Creative Transitions: Runners, Wallpapers, and More
    • 33:22 Kitchens: Heart of the Home
    • 33:59 Innovative Kitchen Design Tips
    • 35:55 Lighting and Appliances: Elevating Kitchen Functionality
    • 42:55 Bedrooms: Creating Cozy Retreats
    • 45:45 Bathrooms: Adding Warmth and Texture
    • 51:52 Decorating Dilemmas: Expert Advice
    • 58:49 Conclusion and Upcoming Book Signing Events!


    Decorating Dilemma:


    Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma on the official How to Decorate Blog [CLICK HERE]


    Hi Megan,

    First off, Marie and the hosts commend you for helping your friend transition her living room to feel cozier with her new lighter style while integrating her cherished deep red colors. Your approach is thoughtful and shows a strong design intuition.

    Marie suggests starting by editing and curating the meaningful red pieces that can blend into a nuanced, rust-toned color palette. This will harmonize the deep red with softer, neutral hues to maintain a cohesive look. Introducing symmetry in the room layout can create a more inviting ambiance. Consider placing matching sofas facing each other across the fireplace or using two chairs that complement the existing seating arrangement.

    For the coffee table, Marie recommends considering a round shape to improve flow, and opting for materials like light wood, marble, or plaster for a touch of organic elegance. Enhancing the space with floor-to-ceiling drapery can add warmth and finish, while also making the room feel more tailored and spacious. Opt for fabrics like linen or wool sateen, which offer both style and functionality.

    Layering textures is key, so think about incorporating elements like leather chairs or mohair pillows. A secondary rug, such as an antique Ushak with rust tones, could be layered over the current neutral rug to add richness. For a further touch of coziness, consider wallpapering with a textured option like seagrass.

    Don't forget the impact of lighting—adding matching table lamps or a console table behind the sofa with additional lamps can brighten the room and enhance its inviting atmosphere. Overall, simplifying and editing accessories, like aligning artwork or choosing standout vases for the mantle, will ensure the space remains serene and cohesive.

    Best of luck with the redesign, and we hope these tips help transform your friend's living room into a cozy and stylish retreat!

    - How to Decorate


    Also Mentioned:

    12 November 2024, 9:00 am
  • 1 hour 3 minutes
    Ep. 386: Carson Kressley's Holiday Must-Haves

    We're excited to welcome back style icon and TV personality Carson Kressley, who shares his favorite holiday decorating and hosting tips as we get into the swing of the season.


    From tree trimming parties and coordinating guest rooms to serving simple yet crowd-pleasing food for holiday gatherings, Carson's practical advice aims to make the holiday season festive and stress-free. He also He provides insight into his own yearly Thanksgiving traditions, including hosting the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade.


    Watch this week's conversation as recorded on Ballard Designs YouTube.


    What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 

    • 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate!
    • 00:34 Welcoming Carson Kressley
    • 02:30 Thanksgiving Traditions and Tips
    • 04:24 Tree Trimming and Holiday Decor
    • 07:27 Guest Room Preparations
    • 19:08 Organizing Holiday Decorations
    • 22:37 Wreaths and Greenery
    • 27:10 Tailoring Decor to Your Space
    • 31:17 Christmas Traditions and Hosting Style
    • 33:15 Holiday Entertaining Tips
    • 34:05 Managing Guests and Multitasking
    • 34:54 Setting Up the Perfect Holiday Bar
    • 36:26 Holiday Brunch for Mom and Friends
    • 37:44 Tips for Large Holiday Parties
    • 39:41 Packing and Organizing for Trips
    • 51:59 Decorating Window Sills
    • 01:00:59 Current Projects and Social Media
    • 01:03:19 Conclusion


    Decorating Dilemma:


    Follow along with images of this week's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog: CLICK HERE


    Hi Pia,


    First off, Carson and the hosts commend you for the excellent choices you've already made with your window sill decor. Your use of monochromatic pots and sculptural elements shows a strong sense of style. Carson suggests continuing with plants in elegant containers as they are a classic and fitting choice for window sills. Adding small lamps is a great idea, especially with those long Swedish winters, as they provide warmth and light.


    Carson also proposes getting creative with your window frames by painting them in a lacquered color. This could make them a standout feature without needing too many decorations on the sill itself. Introducing cafe curtains could also add a stylish backdrop to your arrangements, giving you flexibility with light and privacy. Remember, maintaining varying heights and textures can keep your window displays from appearing cluttered while ensuring they stay visually interesting.


    You're definitely on the right track with your decorating, and these small tweaks could help you achieve that stylish and cohesive look you're aiming for. We'd love to hear back on your progress and any new ideas you decide to implement!


    - How to Decorate


    Also Mentioned:

    5 November 2024, 9:00 am
  • More Episodes? Get the App
About How to Decorate
Links
Listeners Also Subscribed To
© MoonFM 2025. All rights reserved.