Caroline and Taryn are joined by interior designer Cate Gutter to discuss her innovative approach to creating refined, joyful family living spaces. Drawing from her own upbringing in a family that frequently redesigned homes, Cate blends functionality and sophistication in her designs. The conversation explores her design philosophy, incorporating family-friendly materials, and how to artfully embrace the chaos that family life can bring to a home.

Cate shares stories from her personal journey, offers practical tips for functionality without sacrificing aesthetic appeal, and discusses the emotive power of art in living spaces. The episode also includes a listener's query about delineating spaces in an open-concept home, with Cate offering expert advice on creating distinct yet harmonious areas.

What You'll Hear This Episode:

Decorating Dilemma:

Hello ladies,

I really enjoy your show, and thank you for taking my question!  

We’ve downsized to a 1,500 sq ft home and are working to maximize our small space for grown children and grandchildren. While we like some aspects of open concept, it doesn’t always flow well, especially with multiple activities happening at once. 

We’re planning to remove our kitchen peninsula, upper cabinets, and recess the refrigerator to create an open kitchen with a large farm table that will serve as an island. I also want to add a buffet or small table in the bay window space. 

I’d like to somehow “border off” the living room from the kitchen/dining area. Most walls are limited—either open space, windows, or a fireplace. I’m considering a partial wall with a wide opening (about 7’) between the spaces, or maybe a wall extending from the bookshelf side with a shorter opening. 

I plan to place a wingback chair on the left wall and possibly reconfigure the sofas—either removing one, placing the remaining on the gallery wall or in front of the window, or replacing them with a true corner sectional. TV is above the fireplace, and I’d love to add interior window panes as a divider if budget allows. 

Thanks,

Dalita

Also Mentioned:

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Happy Decorating!

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Caroline and Liz are joined by the multi-talented stylist and interior designer Olga Naiman, where they delve into Olga's fascinating journey from psychology to interior design including her unique approach to transforming living spaces through her concept of "Spatial Alchemy."

Listeners will explore the profound impact of intention, dignity, and symbolism in home decor, as well as practical steps for releasing outdated patterns in one's home environment. Olga also shares insights into utilizing doorways as frames and how small shifts in decorating can lead to significant life changes.

What You’ll Hear On This Episode:

Also Mentioned:

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!

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Caroline, Taryn, and Ballard product designer Will Turner dive into Ballard Designs' latest fall collection from swatches, decor items, sofas, and more! The group explores the extensive process behind the creation of new products and their launches, highlighting key pieces such as the Newberry furniture, custom-size rugs, and various home accessories.

Seasonal inspirations and trending colors, including chocolatey browns, sage greens, and lavender are discussed, with insights on how to incorporate these hues and designs into your home. This episode is packed with tips, inspiration, and sneak peeks into the latest from Ballard Designs.

Products Mentioned:

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Also Mentioned:

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!

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Caroline and Liz are joined by esteemed Utah-based designer Caitlin Creer, who shares details of her debut book, 'An Intentional Home: Creating Spaces for Living Beautifully,' Caitlin shares her design journey, the influence of her travels, and the art of balancing form and function in home decor.

The conversation delves into Caitlin’s approach to discovering clients’ unique styles, the importance of reflection in design, and how childhood memories shape living spaces. Caitlin provides practical advice on using color, layering textures, and blending personal touches to create authentic homes. Wrapping up, Caitlin discusses upcoming design trends and practical tips for making homes both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Also Mentioned:

Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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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Join 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:

Also Mentioned:

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!

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Caroline and Liz welcome New York-based designer and author Brittany Bromley to the show, known for her ability to blend traditional aesthetics with a modern twist. Brittany shares the inspiration and stories behind her new book, "Relaxed Elegance," and details her design portfolio featuring a fearless use of patterns and colors that bring warmth and personality to each project.

Brittany also takes us through her design process, including how she transformed her own home from a neglected space into a layered haven of antique charm and contemporary sophistication. Discover how she uses texture, patterns, and the occasional bold color choice to create unique, comfortable, and enduring designs that reflect the personalities of her clients.

What You'll Hear This Episode:

Also Mentioned:

Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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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In this delightful episode, hosts Caroline and Liz welcome back the charismatic and imaginative Miles Redd to the show, 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.

Watch this week's episode with images on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/4kfTDEQ

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Decorating Dilemma:

Hi there,

The hosts understand the challenge of selecting floors that complement cherry wood cabinets while also bringing warmth and texture into your home. Miles offers thoughtful advice for creating a cohesive look.

First, Miles suggests considering painted wood floors, which can add a wonderful and unique character to your kitchen. He notes that a painted floor can offer a practical and budget-friendly solution that also provides a striking aesthetic when paired with cherry cabinetry. A large checkerboard pattern in a two-tone combination, such as navy and natural blonde wood, could introduce a delightful visual interest while harmonizing with the cabinet color.

For your preference in a light yet warm tone throughout the house, Miles recommends moving away from mid-tones and going either blonde or deep dark. He points out that the two options on the far right of your sample photo look promising, particularly focusing on a slightly blonder hue which might blend seamlessly yet stand out beautifully against the cherry cabinetry.

If you're considering a painted floor, the charm only grows as paint starts to wear naturally over time in trafficked areas, offering a lived-in and inviting look. He encourages embracing this character as part of the floor's charm.

We hope these suggestions help you achieve a floor choice that complements your cabinets and highlights your home's style. Best of luck with your flooring project!

- How to Decorate

Also Mentioned:

Ballard Products Mentioned:

Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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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Caroline and Liz 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:

Also Mentioned:

Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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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This 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.

Watch this week's episode with images on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/4jVD0OG

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Also Mentioned:

Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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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Caroline & 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:

Also Mentioned:

Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices