This week, I’m taking you behind the veil of a real-time project: a 3,000-sq-ft, family-run Brazilian steakhouse in San Diego’s Gaslamp. After smoke and water damage from last year’s fire, the owners asked us to refresh on a very tight budget—without losing legacy. We’re building a nature-forward concept inspired by butterfly wings, jungle softness, and river ripples to attract a younger, social-sharing guest while honoring the founder’s story. You’ll hear how we’re sequencing high-impact moves (starting with “crystal cave” restrooms), reusing what we can (table bases, lighting locations), and designing zones with intentional lighting, textures, and screens to create mystery and flow. If you want to see the visuals, hop on the Behind the Veil newsletter.

What you’ll learn

• How to build a concept from a single heritage artifact (and make it feel intentional, not theme-y).
• Budget-savvy upgrades: large-format tile, prefab counters, selective lacquer, and zone-specific sconces.
• How to handle immovable elements at the entrance (hello, salad/hot bar) with screening and lighting.
• Restroom strategies that elevate guest experience and inclusivity (family-friendly layouts).
• Practical ways to use lighting and soft dividers to create flow, intimacy, and discoverability.

Links

• Listen to the Hospitality Design Talks Podcast
• Join the newsletter: Behind the Veil Secrets, musings, and design magic await in your inbox.
• Work with Rachel: Design inquiries + consultations [email protected]
• Instagram: @tigerveil

Hey everyone—Rachel here with a quick update on the future of this podcast and where I’m currently focusing my creative energy.

I’ve been deep in reflection and realignment—personally, professionally, and creatively. That means this podcast will be taking a pause for the time being as I shift my focus toward new directions that are lighting me up, especially in the hospitality design space.

✨ What’s next?

I’m diving deeper into restaurant and hospitality design and will be focusing my energy on the Hospitality Design Talks podcast.

https://hdt.captivate.fm/listen

I’ve also launched a brand new podcast for ASID San Diego called Interior Design San Diego—a weekly show specifically for interior designers, industry partners, and design professionals. If you're in the field, this is a great space to gain insight on business practices and community happenings.

https://interior-design-sd.captivate.fm/listen

All previous episodes of this podcast will remain available, and I’ll be sharing more exciting updates in the hospitality world soon. Thanks for being here—and for your continued support on this evolving journey.

🖥️ Connect with me:

Instagram: instagram.com/tigerveil

Email: [email protected]

Have you ever noticed how certain seasons make you want to reset — to clear the clutter, reorganize your space, and find a little more flow? That’s not random — that’s Virgo energy at work.

In this episode of the Holistic Interior Design Podcast, Rachel taps into the wisdom of Virgo season — the zodiac’s call to simplify, systemize, and realign your home and life. She even pulls a tarot card, the Wheel of Fortune, to guide us through the shifts and cycles we’re all moving through right now.

Virgo energy is about clarity, rhythm, and release — not perfection. This is your time to:

• Declutter with intention, letting go of items (and energy) that no longer align with you or who you are becoming.
• Reorganize your spaces in ways that truly support your rhythm and well-being
• Create more mental, emotional, and physical spaciousness for what’s next

Think of it as an autumn reset — like spring cleaning, but for the soul. Whether it’s clearing cobwebs in your attic, letting go of clothes you’ll never wear again, or finally cleaning up your digital desktop, Virgo season is your invitation to lighten the load and make room for flow.

So if you’ve been feeling the nudge to get organized, release, and realign with the season — this episode is for you.

Your Turn: Do you have a Virgo season ritual or autumn clearing practice you return to each year? Rachel would love to hear what helps you reset.

✨ Special Invitation: If you’re in San Diego, Rachel is co-hosting a Libra Dinner Gathering on Sunday, September 28th at 5:30 PM in partnership with Alchemy Choose Thy Poison. This intimate evening will weave together astrology, tarot, seasonal foods, and sacred ritual — all centered on Libra’s energy of balance, beauty, and harmony.

Reserve your seat here.

Interested in working with Rachel? Email her to inquire [email protected]

I sat down with the incredibly wise and wildly grounded Lisa Wells, owner of Geneva Flooring, and let me just say… this convo was equal parts design deep dive and soulful reminder that how we build our spaces matters.

Lisa brings over 25 years of experience in the flooring world — but more than that, she brings heart. We talk about why flooring is foundational (literally and emotionally), how sustainable choices start with awareness, and why her team’s long-time trade relationships are the secret sauce.

And yes, we totally nerd out on things like wool carpets, cork floors, and what to do before you fall in love with that Pinterest board inspiration.

• Visit Geneva Flooring: genevaflooring.com
• Follow Lisa & the team on IG: @genevaflooring1

If this episode lit something up for you — maybe you’re in the middle of a reno, dreaming of a future space, or you just love hearing women talk shop — share it with a friend who gets it. Screenshot, tag us, leave a review… it truly means the world.

Looking to work with Rachel? Reach out at [email protected]

What happens when a love for art, sustainability, and soulful living collide? You get Caitlyn Child—and her work with Fireclay Tile is proof that design can be radically beautiful and rooted in deep intention.

Today’s guest is Caitlyn Child, the Vice President of Sales at Fireclay Tile, a certified B-Corp and pioneer in handmade, sustainability-focused tile. But Caitlyn isn’t just in sales—she’s in the business of storytelling through space. And she’s here to show us how thoughtful materials, slow design, and a passion for people can transform more than just a home… they can shift the way we live and connect.

From antique-hunting childhoods to art history studies to a decade in social work (!), Caitlyn’s journey wasn’t linear—but it was aligned. She eventually found her way to Fireclay after studying architecture and falling in love with the tactile, earthy nature of clay.

Now, she’s helping lead a company that’s redefining what it means to build sustainably in a waste-heavy industry.

When we say Fireclay is doing things differently, we mean it. This isn’t just another trendy brand trying to ride the green wave. They were the first tile company to use lead-free glazes back in 1986, and they’ve stayed true to their roots ever since. Every single tile is handmade to order in California and Washington, using domestically sourced minerals, recycled water, and reclaimed materials.

They’re not just carbon-neutral—they’re designing beauty from the ground up with intention, artistry, and innovation.

Caitlyn walked me through all the nuances that make handmade tile special—from natural variation in oxides to the way light hits a glaze. You can literally feel the difference. Their tiles tell a story: of mineral-rich soil, of skilled hands, of conscious choices.

We talk about the emotional, artistic, and even spiritual connection people have with materials that come from the Earth. And how Fireclay partners with designers to translate that energy into custom, intentional work.

This episode isn’t just about tile—it’s about the people behind the spaces. Caitlyn shares how Fireclay is empowering its reps and collaborators to create community-led events that are as soulful as they are strategic. And it’s why I’m SO thrilled to be part of their upcoming Summer Solstice Gathering at their Costa Mesa showroom.

This isn’t another salesy mixer. It’s a nourishing, heart-centered celebration of creativity, connection, and ritual. Expect astrology, tarot, design inspiration, and real talk about how to support your clients not just aesthetically—but energetically.

In a time where the building industry often prioritizes speed and scale, this episode is a grounding reminder that slowness, integrity, and beauty still matter. Fireclay is proof that innovation doesn’t have to mean cutting corners—it can mean digging deeper.

Whether you’re a designer, a homeowner, or just someone who wants to bring more intention into your spaces, this episode will inspire you to think about materials—and relationships—in a whole new way.

• Caitlyn’s path from social work to sustainable tile
• Why Fireclay puts people and planet over profit (and still thrives)
• How handmade tile becomes a tool for storytelling and legacy
• Why community and creativity are at the heart of their business model
• What to expect from the Summer Solstice Gathering in Costa Mesa

Summer Solstice Event

Fireclay Showroom, Costa Mesa, CA

Thursday, June 13 | 4–7pm

Astrology, tarot, sacred intention setting, community connection, and so much more.

RSVP Here

👉 fireclaytile.com

👉 @fireclaytile on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, YouTube, and Facebook

At the very end of our chat, I asked Caitlyn what she does to stay grounded—and her answer gave me chills. From daily meditation to sending one heartfelt message to someone every day, her practice is a beautiful reminder that presence is power.

Whether it’s a tile, a text, or a ritual, we all have the ability to infuse our lives with more meaning. I hope this conversation inspires you to do just that.

My Best,

Rachel

Welcome back to the Holistic Interior Design Podcast! I’m Rachel Lorraine Crawford, your host and designer. In this episode, we’re tuning into the vibrant, airy, and curious energy of Gemini season—a time of mental stimulation, adaptability, and deep connection through communication.

We often feel the urge to shift our spaces without quite knowing why—and Gemini season gives us a beautiful reason. With the Sun moving into this mutable air sign, we’re invited to embrace design that’s light, playful, and dynamic—just like Gemini energy itself.

• How Gemini season energetically impacts your space and mindset
• The core traits of Gemini and how they translate into interior design
• Practical tips to bring airiness, movement, and mental clarity into your home or hospitality setting
• Ideas for incorporating sound, scent, texture, and tech to support Gemini’s playful and communicative spirit
• What kinds of communal spaces, materials, and experiences reflect Gemini’s dual and curious nature

• Ideas for creating conversation zones, flexible layouts, and multi-use spaces
• Ways to refresh your space with unexpected colors, mirrored surfaces, and natural textures
• Suggestions for Gemini-inspired rituals, like sound clearing or creating curiosity corners
• Examples of Gemini-aligned commercial spaces

Whether you're a Gemini sun, moon, rising—or just want to ride this energetic wave—you’ll find ideas to uplift your home, creative practice, or hospitality space.

I'd love to hear how you're tapping into Gemini energy this season!

Leave me a voice message with your thoughts or questions via our Ask a Designer Hotline at speakpipe.com/hid — we may feature your message on an upcoming episode!

Remember: Gemini reminds us that design doesn’t have to be fixed—it can be playful, evolving, and responsive. So try something new, explore a fresh idea, or simply open your windows and let the breeze shift the energy. You’ve got the support of the cosmos behind you.

Until next time, stay curious and stay connected. ✨

This episode is for anyone who’s been craving a slower pace, a deeper connection to home, and a little more beauty in the everyday. As we step into Taurus season, I’m inviting you to look at your space—not just as a backdrop, but as an active part of your well-being.

Taurus energy is grounded, sensual, and rooted in beauty and value. It’s about slowing down, enjoying life’s pleasures, and surrounding yourself with what truly matters. In this episode, I walk you through how to design for this powerful energy in a way that’s accessible and intentional. I’ll guide you through Feng Shui tips for activating your wealth corner, share the essential oils and crystals that support Taurus season, and offer simple, luxurious upgrades you can bring into your space right now—like cozy throws, bath rituals, flower arrangements, and grounding materials.

We also dive into journaling prompts to help you reconnect with your space and ask yourself:

What feels indulgent?

Where do I feel most grounded?

What does abundance really look like for me—and does my space reflect that?

Whether you're designing a full room or just creating a small ritual around your morning tea, this episode is a reminder that beauty is a portal to alignment. Taurus asks us to stop rushing and start feeling. So let’s design a space that works with that rhythm. If you're navigating change, craving clarity, or just want to feel more rooted at home—this one's for you.

Mentioned in the Episode:

The Flower Oracle: Daffodil card (patience, beginnings, vitality)

Essential Oils: Rose, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood

Crystals: Citrine, Pyrite, Jade, Garnet

Rituals: Morning tea, bath time, setting your kitchen as an altar

Want to go deeper?

Submit your design questions or dilemmas—I'd love to feature your voice on the show:

speakpipe.com/hid

If this episode resonated, take a moment to share it, leave a review, or tag me on Instagram. It helps more creatives and conscious homemakers find our community.

Let’s continue to create beauty, together.

—Rachel

Welcome back! In this episode, I’m taking you deeper into what holistic interior design really means to me — and how my personal journey shaped the way I approach space, energy, and design today.

I’m sharing my story — from growing up in chaotic, shared spaces, to discovering the magic of theatre, finding sanctuary in my first apartment, and ultimately weaving together spirituality, energy work, and design. You’ll hear about the turning points that led me to become a certified Feng Shui practitioner, Reiki Master, and holistic designer — and how I integrate it all into the work I do now.

Then I walk you through my Top 10 ways to embrace holistic interior design right now — things you can do today to shift the energy in your space and reconnect with your home as a tool for healing, alignment, and intention.

Whether you're a homeowner, creative, or wellness entrepreneur, these tips will help you design a space that holds you, inspires you, and reflects your highest self.

• What holistic interior design is and how I define it
• How my lived experience led me to this work
• Why space isn’t just physical — it’s emotional and spiritual, too
• My top 10 (plus a bonus!) energy-shifting practices for your home
• How to connect more deeply with your space through simple, soul-supporting changes

✨ Feeling inspired to try one of these? I’d love to hear how it shifts your space or mood. Leave me a voice message (or share a design dilemma!) here:

https://www.speakpipe.com/HID

Hey there — welcome back to the Holistic Interior Design Podcast. It’s been a minute, and I’m so happy to be here with you again. This is episode 173, and it’s the beginning of a brand new chapter. A return to where this podcast first started: to serve you, my design clients, and to offer support for creating intentional, aligned spaces.

At the top of the episode, I light a candle to bring in clarity, presence, and connection — and I pull a card from the Rider Waite deck. The card I pulled came through, which feels so aligned with this moment and confirmation that I'm on the right track.

This episode is really about letting you in on what’s been going on behind the scenes — the shifts in my business, the evolution of the podcast, and why I’m choosing to show up now raw and unedited. Perfectionism has held me back, and I’m ready to let that go. This space is going to be real, honest, and supportive — just like the homes and spaces we’re all working to create.

• Why I’m returning to my original intention for the podcast
• The journey I’ve been on with burnout, reevaluating, and getting back to basics
• A little love note to all my design mentees (you're still welcome here!)
• How this podcast will now speak directly to conscious homeowners, holistic business owners, and anyone creating intentional space
• What to expect from upcoming episodes — design tips, inspiration, Feng Shui insights, astrology lead design, space clearing practices, and aligning your space with your true essence
• How you can submit your design questions or book a design audit to be featured on the show

If you’ve got a design dilemma or a question about your space, I’d love to hear it! You can leave me a voice message right here: https://www.speakpipe.com/HID

And if you’re ready for a deeper design conversation and want to be featured in a future design audit episode, book a time with me here: https://calendly.com/rachellarraine/audit

Starting Tuesday, May 6, I’ll be back releasing new episodes weekly — short, soulful, and packed with inspiration, practical tips, and rituals to help you create a space that truly reflects who you are. We’ll kick things off next week with a revamped version of “What Is Holistic Interior Design?”

Thanks for being here and for allowing me to shift, evolve, and come back to this space with more presence and purpose. I hope it resonates. I can’t wait to hear your questions and support you in designing the spaces of your dreams.

Talk soon,

xo —Rachel

A Rebirth in Business: Realignment, Retrogrades & Raw Intention

In this short and sweet solo episode, I’m reconnecting with you after a much-needed pause. I light a candle, pull a card from my Rider-Waite deck—the Nine of Wands—and reflect on its powerful message about burnout, boundaries, and being close to completion.

With the Aries New Moon, a solar eclipse, and both Mercury and Venus in retrograde, it feels like the perfect time to slow down and realign. I share what’s been unfolding behind the scenes—from stepping away from projects that no longer felt aligned, to returning to my roots in holistic interior design.

This episode is completely unedited and from the heart. I’m embracing simplicity and authenticity, and I want to encourage you to do the same in your business. I also share a little about my new 90-day one-on-one coaching offer, updates with Design Coven, and exciting ASID events coming up here in San Diego—especially the IP Expo happening on Earth Day (April 22nd), which I’ll be moderating.

Connect with me on Instagram: @thedesigncoven

Listen, subscribe and follow me at: Holistic Hospitality Design: