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:

• KOBEL + CO | Website
• @kobelandco | Instagram
• Ballard Designs
• Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube

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:

• Kishani Perera | Website
• @kishaniperera | Instagram
• Healthy Homes™
• Ballard Designs
• Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube

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:

• James Thomas Interiors | Website
• @jamesthomasinteriors | Instagram
• Ballard Designs
• Ballard Designs YouTube | Watch Full Episodes w/ Images

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:

• Christine Markatos Design | Website
• @chrstinemarkatosdesign | Instagram
• Ballard Designs
• Ballard Designs YouTube | Watch Full Episodes w/ Images

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:

• Ballard Designs
• Our 2024 Holiday Hosting Recipes

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:

• Marie Flanigan | Website
• @marieflaniganinteriors | Instagram
• 'The Perfect Room' | Order Your Copy Now!
• Ballard Designs
• Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube

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:

• SHOP NOW: Carson's Favorite Holiday Ballard Products
• @carsonkressley | Instagram
• Ballard Designs
• Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube

We're joined this week by acclaimed designer & author Elaine Griffin, where we dive deep into the fundamentals of decorating through her 2009 best-selling book, 'Design Rules: The Insider's Guide to Becoming Your Own Decorator.'

The ladies discuss proportion principles, the impact of personal style, and the importance of timeless design, all while Elaine opens up about her Southern cultural influences, navigating different regional styles, evolving personal aesthetics, and strategic planning for young decorators. The episode also emphasizes how to incorporate cherished items, where and when to invest in quality furniture pieces, and how to adapt your design choices to life experiences in a meaningful way.

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, the Podcast
• 00:36 Meet Elaine Griffin
• 01:16 ‘Design Rules’: The Timeless Guidebook for Home Decoraters
• 02:18 Practical Tips for Home Decor
• 15:47 The Emotional Connection to Home
• 16:34 Influences on Elaine’s Personal Design Style
• 31:20 Design Stages and Investment Pieces
• 36:22 How to Blend Treasured Possessions and Sentimental Items into Cohesive Design
• 38:47 The Evolution of Your Own Personal Style
• 39:28 Liz’s Card Catalog: A Journey Through Time
• 41:15 Reflections on Design and Sentimentality
• 58:35 Decorating Dilemma: Design Advice for a Lake Home
• 01:14:02 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Decorating Dilemma:

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

Hi Amanda,

First off, Elaine commends Amanda on her initial color choice of alabaster, describing it as a beautiful off-white that ranked among the top Sherwin Williams colors. She suggests that you need to focus on allowing the natural landscape to guide her color palette since the lake house likely offers a view worth highlighting. Elaine also emphasizes the importance of choosing colors that complement the scenery to ensure the view remains the focal point. For the screen porch, she recommends considering a daring, dark green to provide a dynamic contrast and allow the room to blend with the natural surroundings.

Elaine also shares key color rules, advising that Amanda match her home's interior and exterior styles to maintain cohesion, and suggests incorporating beige tones as an alternative to gray, which can look dated. Elaine points out the importance of considering natural light and how it interacts with chosen colors, encouraging Amanda to seek a palette that lasts and complements both the home's interior and its natural setting.

Give us an update when you finish this project, we really want to see what decision(s) you make!

- How to Decorate

Also Mentioned:

• 'Design Rules: The Book' | Order Your Copy Today!
• Elaine Griffin at Home | Website
• @elaine_griffin | Instagram
• Ballard Designs
• Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube

This week, the ladies get a first-hand look into the captivating world of custom hand-painted wallpaper with guest Jenn Gracie: a 6th generation member of the esteemed Gracie Wallpaper family.

Our conversation revolves around the firm's newly published book 'The Art of Gracie,’ the first-ever book and inside look at the history, design process, and continuing legacy of Gracie Wallpaper. Listeners will explore the transition from antique to bespoke wallpaper designs, the rigorous training of artists, and the specialized skills required to create these intricate works. The episode also covers the challenges and joys of curating photography for historic wallpaper, preserving antique designs, and the strategic process of capturing room installations.

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

What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 

• 00:00 Introduction
• 00:34 Meet Jennifer Gracie: A Legacy of Craftsmanship
• 01:34 The Gracie Family Business: A Historical Overview
• 03:42 Personal Stories and Paths into the Family Business
• 07:36 The Art of Custom Hand-Painted Wallpapers
• 15:44 Innovative Wallpaper Designs and Techniques
• 24:00 The Making of the Gracie Wallpaper Book
• 24:31 Crafting a Family Legacy: The Book's Journey
• 25:04 Personal Touches: Family Contributions
• 25:56 Warmth and Welcoming: The Family's Essence
• 27:31 Challenges in Curating Photography
• 30:48 Preserving History: Restorations and Installations
• 32:09 The Art of Wallpaper: Techniques and Traditions
• 37:08 Exploring Designs: Japanese and Panoramic Landscapes
• 39:48 Favorite Designs and Upcoming Projects
• 41:14 Conclusion

Also Mentioned:

• Ballard Designs
• Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube
• The Art of Gracie
• Gracie Wallpaper

Following last week's episode, Caroline shares the second half of her extended conversation with renowned architect and interior designer Ben Pentreath. The two continue their discussion of Ben's latest book, 'An English Vision', as well as practical decorating tips for making your house feel like your home.

Watch our FULL INTERVIEW with Ben Pentreath now on YouTube: CLICK HERE

What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 

• 00:00 - Introduction
• 00:34 - Continuing Our Conversation with Ben Pentreath: Part Two
• 00:52 - Ben shares his insights on how to harmoniously blend architecture and decoration in design.
• 05:42 - Ben and Caroline discuss a wide array of different decoration styles and what makes each so unique.
• 08:51 - Ben discusses the deeper philosophy behind decorating and why planning for longevity matters.
• 12:37 - Why adding personal touches to your decor can make all the difference in creating a home!
• 20:59 - Ben breaks down the distinct characteristics of English and American styles and what sets them apart.
• 27:42 - Caroline and Ben dive even deeper into how personalization transforms a house into a warm, inviting home.
• 28:59 - Hear about the hurdles Ben faces when designing for clients and how he navigates their needs.
• 31:22 - Learn how photography plays a crucial role in showcasing design and capturing the beauty of spaces.
• 34:30 - Ben shares his tips on maintaining harmony between work and personal life as a designer.
• 43:03 - Decorating Dilemma: Exterior Home Makeover Tips!
• 51:47 - Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Decorating Dilemma:

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

Hi Braeden,

First off, Ben suggests a full reassessment of the garage door’s role, asking whether it’s primarily used for car storage. If not, converting the garage into a living space could improve the overall aesthetic of the house. They also recommend enhancing the windows by adding glazing bars to create a friendlier appearance and suggest removing existing shutters if they are too small to serve their functional purpose.

Ben and Caroline also emphasize the importance of achieving a cohesive look by considering the brick’s color. Either painting it to match the siding or replacing it with siding altogether can help unify the exterior facade. Ben also advises refining the porch details by opting for thinner, more elegant columns and adding seating to encourage outdoor enjoyment.

Lastly, they highlight the significance of landscaping, recommending the introduction of climbing plants to soften the house's appearance and improve curb appeal. Overall, we recommend to personalize the space while maintaining a harmonious design that reflects your own style and preferences.

Thanks so much for writing in and happy decorating! 

Also Mentioned:

• Ballard Designs
• Ben Pentreath LTD
• 'An English Vision' by Ben Pentreath

This week, Caroline hosts the show solo with renowned architect and interior designer Ben Pentreath. The two delve into Ben's extensive career, current design projects, and then discuss Ben's latest book, 'An English Vision.'

Ben gives insights on common design challenges, the thought processes behind sustainable urban planning, and the architectural principles guiding his work in classic English designs. The conversation also touches on the integration of modern technologies within traditional architecture and how design choices impact community and environmental sustainability.

Watch our FULL INTERVIEW with Ben Pentreath now on YouTube: CLICK HERE

What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 

• 00:00 - Introduction
• 00:33 - Get Ready for a Special Two-Part Series!
• 01:04 - Discover Ben Pentreath’s design journey plus how he fell in love with architecture.
• 02:32 - Writing a Book: Hear about the joys and hurdles Ben faced while penning his book. It’s a journey of passion and perseverance!
• 04:36 - Ben shares heartfelt reflections and the inspirations that fuel his creativity.
• 10:34 - Ben discusses the early influences that shaped his career in design.
• 15:19 - Gain insights into Ben’s architectural education and the initial steps of his professional journey.
• 19:52 - Ben recounts life-changing travels and the invaluable experiences of his apprenticeships.
• 24:53 - Ben shares how a move to New York opened new doors and exciting possibilities.
• 26:05 - Hear Ben's thoughts on what it was like to live and work amidst the vibrant NYC landscape.
• 27:39 - Ben shares his unique perspective on American culture and life through his designer’s lens.
• 28:48 - Learn about the motivations behind Ben’s choice to ultimately come back to (and embrace) his roots in the UK.
• 32:55 - Ben opens up about the exciting yet challenging experience of starting his own design practice.
• 33:22 - Dive into Ben's vision for 'Poundbury' and what makes it so special in the realm of urban design.
• 37:02 - Ben discusses vercoming unique and unpredictable challenges in Urban Planning
• 43:21 - Wrap up Part 1 of this interview with Ben’s thoughts on where urban development is headed and what we can expect in the future!

Also Mentioned:

• Ballard Designs
• Ben Pentreath LTD
• 'An English Vision' by Ben Pentreath