How to Decorate

By Ballard DesignsBusiness Arts Design

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Typical duration
60 min
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How to Decorate episodes

October 15, 2024Ep. 383: An English Vision with Ben Pentreath (Pt. 2)
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

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53 min
October 08, 2024Ep. 382: An English Vision with Ben Pentreath (Pt. 1)
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

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56 min
October 01, 2024Ep. 381: Creating Cohesive and Functional Spaces with Cullman & Kravis
This week, we welcome designers Ellie Cullman and Lee Cavanaugh from the iconic design firm Cullman & Kravis, who discuss their latest book, 'Cullman and Kravis Interiors.'

Although "Cullman & Kravis Interiors" is technically the fourth book from designer Ellie Cullman, it is the first book that showcases her own firm's approach to blending traditional and contemporary styles. Ellie and Lee emphasize their passion for reflecting client interests, location, and functionality in their designs, and they also share insights about the importance of cohesive coloring and the ‘alchemy of old and new’ in creating vibrant living spaces.

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

What You’ll Hear On This Episode:
00:00 Introduction
00:33 Meet Our Guests: Ellie Cullman and Lee Cavanaugh
01:58 The Unique Cullman and Kravis Aesthetic
03:58 Designing for Function and Comfort
05:15 Interactive Design Process
13:43 Collaborative Design and Client Interaction
20:48 Adapting Designs for Future Needs
23:14 Creating Play Spaces for All Ages
23:58 Exploring Traditional Design
25:31 Balancing Old and New in Interiors
31:48 The Importance of Color Cohesion
35:35 Personal Stories and Design Tips
39:16 Decorating Dilemmas and Solutions
45:21 Conclusion + Where to Find More from Cullman & Kravis
Decorating Dilemma:
Cullman & Kravis suggest embracing the bold fuchsia color from her chairs by incorporating it elsewhere in the room to achieve cohesion. They recommended painting the walls in the fuchsia shade or using a textured wall covering to tie the space together. If the bold choice felt overwhelming, they suggested adding fuchsia accessories, such as vases or a large bowl, on the dining table. To address the issue with her dining chairs on the carpet, they recommended using plastic sliders or sabots on the chair feet for ease of movement. Overall, they encouraged Donna to continue her bold direction and reminded her that sometimes stepping out of her comfort zone can result in a well-designed room.

Also Mentioned:
Ballard Designs
Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube
Cullman & Kravis

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47 min
September 24, 2024Ep. 380: Trials and Triumphs
Join Caroline, Taryn, and Liz for another exciting round of Trials and Triumphs!

Liz shares her recent adventure in helping her sister transform a mudroom and laundry room with stunning color palettes and tile choices. She also recounts a nerve-wracking experience with malfunctioning hardwired fire alarms that led to a chaotic visit from firefighters. Taryn raises the stakes with a gripping story of her in-laws’ home flooding from a broken valve while they were watching her kids. The trio also delights in sharing their latest home decor finds, including Caroline's enthusiasm for shiny new metallic glass orbs and Taryn's beautiful ceramics from Greece. Tune in for inspiration and a few laughs!

What You'll Hear This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate
00:35 The Laundry Room Makeover
05:27 Liz's Unexpected Fire Alarm Drama
15:16 Taryn's Water Damage Nightmare
19:06 Ice Machine Woes and Solutions
20:37 Insurance and Home Repairs
21:07 Drapery Dilemmas and Triumphs
22:12 Greek Ceramics and Shopping Haul
23:34 Travel Packing Tips
27:55 Fiddle Leaf Fig Care
32:01 Decorating with Metallic Glass Orbs
36:44 Estate Sale Finds and Antiques
38:34 Concluding Thoughts and Show Wrap-Up
Also Mentioned:
Metallic Glass Orbs
Ballard Designs

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40 min
September 17, 2024Ep. 379: 5 Design Principles for an Artful Home with Josh Young
This week, we welcome artist and tastemaker Josh Young. After living in Milan for six years, Josh returned to the U.S. and launched Josh Young Design House in 2017, gaining recognition for his distinctive art style and home designs. His work has appeared in major publications such as Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, and Vogue Italia.

In his debut book, Artful Home, Josh takes us through his artistic journey, his homes, and his creative process for blending modern and classical elements. In our convo, Josh shares how his European experience shaped his design philosophy and offers fantastic tips for curating a stylish, balanced home.

What You’ll Hear On This Episode:
Josh’s journey from a small town in Pennsylvania to studying art in Milan and how this experience influenced his design approach.
His debut book, Artful Home, and how it explores five artistic principles: palette, texture, form, nostalgia, and layers.
How the book process helped him crystallize the connection between his art and home decor.
Josh’s love of juxtaposing modern and classical elements.
Why is it so difficult to pull off a neutral space, and what can we do about it?
Yes, even Josh has moments where his silver isn’t perfectly polished too.
The evolution of Josh Young Design House and how social media played a pivotal role in his success.
His love of antiques and how he incorporates them into his spaces in unexpected ways.
How he styles rooms with a mix of classical pieces, modern touches, and neutral palettes.
Tips for creating a home that feels both lived-in and elegant, with an emphasis on texture and layering.
Decorating Dilemma

Follow along with pictures of this week's listener-submitted decorating dilemma here on the How to Decorate Blog.

Hi Amanda! Thank you for being a loyal listener! We loved diving into your primary bedroom refresh, and we have some fun ideas to help you elevate the space. Let’s break it down step by step:
Since you're keeping the pink chair and artwork, we suggest leaning into that pink as your accent color. Try incorporating pink into decorative pillows, drapes, and other textiles. We recommend using neutral tones for your bedding to keep things balanced and avoid overwhelming the space. A classic white bedding set with pink accents could help tie everything together without feeling too busy.
For a fresh look, try layering textures in your bedding with different fabrics like linen or cotton. Keeping the palette neutral with subtle pink accents will create a serene yet stylish space. As for the drapes, consider using a light neutral with a hint of pink or blush undertones to complement the existing pink pieces.
Since you want to replace your nightstands and avoid matching the dressers, look for options that offer storage but are lighter in tone or have a different texture. Painted nightstands or ones in a lighter wood could work well to contrast the darker dresser. Pair them with stylish lamps that fit your overall aesthetic—maybe incorporating more of that pink or even brass elements for a pop of elegance.
We understand your husband wants to keep a fan, but you can opt for one without a light kit for a cleaner, less obtrusive look. Pair it with plenty of beautiful table or floor lamps to keep the space well-lit.
The current TV placement does seem a bit top-heavy with the narrow dresser. Consider mounting the TV on the wall to free up space on the dresser for decorative items like a beautiful lamp or artwork. If wall-mounting isn’t an option, switching the dresser with a wider, lower piece could help balance the space better. This will also make the room feel less cluttered and more intentional.
We hope these tips spark some inspiration as you tackle your refresh! Happy decorating!

Also Mentioned:
Ballard Designs
Watch the Full Episode - Ballard Designs YouTube
Josh Young | IG
Artful Home

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1 hr 1 min
September 10, 2024Ep. 378: Entertaining and the Art of Gathering with Stephanie Nass
In this episode, we're excited to welcome Stephanie Nass—also known as "Chefanie"—who shares her expertise in hosting unforgettable gatherings. As a chef, host extraordinaire, and author, Stephanie has organized parties for a wide range of guests, from celebrities to royals.

Her new book, "Swing By: Entertaining Recipes and the New Art of Gathering," provides a playful guide for throwing themed parties with flair. Join us as Stephanie discusses her journey into entertaining, the development of her brand, and practical tips for hosting parties that are both elaborate and approachable.

What You’ll Hear On This Episode:
Where Stephanie's love of entertaining came from and how she got started doing it on her own.
Her experience as the social chair in college and how it helped her practice and hone her hosting skills.
How Stephanie's brand "Chefanie" evolved from a catering business.
Stephanie's concept of "maximalism" and how her guests react to her highly coordinated and themed parties.
The different levels of party planning and hosting, from casual standing parties to more elaborate seated dinners.
Stephanie's advice on planning and inviting guests for a small dinner party of 4 people.
Stephanie's principles or "North Star" for planning parties and how she approaches the creative process.
Tips for party planning with a lot of lead time, and also more impromptu hangs!
Fun ideas to get you in the mood for upcoming Halloween and holiday parties - break out the witch finger cookies!
Ideas to make your tablescape and decorations come to life and reflect your personal vibe.
Also Mentioned:
Ballard Designs
Chefanie | IG
Swing By!:Entertaining Recipes and the New Art of Gathering

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43 min
September 07, 2024BONUS episode: Explore James Farmer's Cozy & Custom Built Cottage Farmhouse
We are thrilled to announce a NEW House Tour on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel, available now! This time, Caroline travels to Perry, Georgia to visit the calm and custom-built cottage home of acclaimed designer & author James Farmer.

Caroline and James explore his design philosophy, touching on how the surrounding environment influences his choices, his favorite colors and materials, and his approach to blending antiques with modern comforts. James also shares insights into creating indoor coziness, setting up inviting guest spaces, and the evolution of outdoor decor. Throughout, he emphasizes the importance of confidence in design, saying that creating a positively personal, unapologetic style lays the foundation for a welcoming home.

Want to see this beautiful home with your own eyes? WATCH NOW on YouTube!

What You’ll Hear On This Episode:
00:00 Introduction
00:35 Special Guest: James Farmer
01:43 Building Farmdale: A Labor of Love
03:07 Designing with Nature in Mind
05:11 Interior Evolution and Personal Style
08:19 The Unique Dining Room Entry
15:20 Creating Cozy and Functional Spaces
20:47 Guest Bedrooms and Antiques
22:55 The Charm of Antique Wood Tones
24:08 Versatility of Classic Furniture Pieces
24:44 Creating Dramatic Moments with Antiques
25:51 Combining Antiques with Modern Pieces
27:47 The Comforts of a Well-Designed Bedroom
30:53 Thoughtful Touches for Guest Bathrooms
32:43 Exploring Outdoor Design and Furniture
35:53 Inspiration Behind Farmdale Gardens
42:17 Unapologetic Home Design
43:38 Conclusion
Also Mentioned:
James Farmer Design Website
Ballard Designs' YouTube Channel

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45 min
September 03, 2024Ep. 377: The Design of a Country Estate with Cathy Purple Cherry
Besides having one of the best names in design, Cathy Purple Cherry is known for her uniquely holistic approach to design, embodying the ability to meet both the lifestyle and emotional needs of clients.

In her first book, The Design of a Country Estate, Cathy offers a deeper look at the creation of a magnificent estate and working farm on the Chesapeake Bay. In our chat with Cathy, she shares insights into building her firm from the ground up, the creation of a magnificent country estate on the Chesapeake Bay, and the philosophy into her thoughtful, human-centric design process that has defined her decades-long career.

What You’ll Hear On This Episode:
Cathy's firm founding journey and distinctive name story.
How her firm has grown since opening in 1993.
What made her write her first book about a single project?
Cathy shares a timeline of the Chesapeake Bay estate project, which took about 5 years from start to finish.
Her personal experiences and influences in design philosophy, including raising a child with special needs.
Cathy's holistic approach prioritizes function and emotion.
The role of millwork, light, and views in human-scaled spaces.
Cost-conscious strategies and practical considerations.
Designing tips to show your home and family’s unique personality.
Mentioned:
Ballard Designs
Watch the Full Episode - Ballard Designs YouTube
The Design of a Country Estate
Purple Cherry
IG

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1 hr 12 min
August 27, 2024Ep. 376: The Art of Harmonious Home Design with Rachel Cannon
This week we welcome back Baton Rouge-based interior designer Rachel Cannon, who reminds us that our home is our space and we can (and should) design it specifically for our personal needs!
Rachel shares her philosophy on designing for introverts and creating quiet spaces in homes. She discusses the importance of traditional floor plans and the impact of the pandemic on home design, and introduces her new venture, RCL Organizing. Rachel also offers insights on balancing open and closed spaces, designing for individual needs, and the challenges of organizing a home for longevity.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode
Rachel's philosophy on designing for introverts and creating quiet spaces in homes.
The benefits of traditional floor plans over open concept designs.
Introduction to Rachel's new venture, RCL Organizing, and its focus on integrating organization into the design process.
The importance of understanding clients' habits and preferences when designing spaces.
Beautiful ways to store and organize beauty products.
Challenges of organizing and maintaining a home, including Rachel's personal experiences.
Tips on balancing structure and flexibility in home design.
Designing for different life stages and the need for adaptability.
The balance between open vs. closed floor plans in a home.
Also Mentioned:
Ballard Designs
Rachel Cannon

Decorating Dilemma:
Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma here on the How to Decorate blog.
Hi Alex! It's great to hear you're tackling your den as the first room to finish in your new home - that's such a smart approach. Rachel has some wonderful suggestions to help you create a cozy, personalized retreat for your family. First, regarding the dark red brick fireplace that you feel is an "eyesore" in its current state - Rachel strongly recommends painting it the same soft blue color as your walls and trim. This will help the fireplace blend in seamlessly and eliminate that jarring contrast. It's a simple but impactful change that can really elevate the whole space.
As for your vintage, hand-tied wool rug, Rachel reassures you that it's a beautiful, timeless piece. She advises keeping it as the foundation for the room's color palette, rather than trying to replace it. The pattern and quality are lovely, and they will provide that fresh take on the Southern traditional style you're going for.
When it comes to the coffee table, Rachel thinks an upholstered ottoman could be a great option. The key is to choose one with legs, which will give it a more tailored, contemporary look to balance out the traditional elements in the room. And with a young child, the soft surface can be a practical and comfortable choice for little ones to play on.
Rachel suggests pairing the ottoman with two skirted chairs in a darker blue fabric to tie everything together. She also recommends rearranging the bird artwork - perhaps grouping the two pieces closer together on a smaller wall, and then adding a larger statement piece over the sofa to create more visual balance.
Thanks so much and happy decorating!

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1 hr 1 min
August 20, 2024Ep. 375: Trials and Triumphs
Let’s catch up with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz in a long-overdue Trials and Triumphs episode!
Despite Taryn’s computer acting up, she marches forward with the search for the perfect fabric for her bedroom drapery and shares her latest DIY project covering IKEA frames with fabric to create a personalized gallery wall.

Liz gets crafty in the kitchen to cover her windows in a charming, vintage-inspired way, while Caroline celebrates the addition of some super cute new lighting including a pink scalloped lamp shade that’s too adorable. The ladies also shares their tips and tricks for keeping those gorgeous fiddle leaf fig trees alive and thriving.

What You'll Hear This Episode:
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:36 Trials and Triumphs: Taryn's Frustrations
01:41 Fabric Choices and Home Updates
05:50 DIY Projects and Crafting Tips
15:53 Liz's Neighbor and Drapery Dilemmas
20:33 Charming Window Treatments
22:32 Painting Projects and Color Choices
24:54 Lampshade Updates and Trends
28:06 Indoor Plant Adventures
37:00 Mural Progress and Final Thoughts
Also Mentioned:
Ballard Designs

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42 min

About How to Decorate

From the publisher's feed

We want to teach you how to decorate! We'll help you unleash your inner decorator with interviews from interior designers, sharing the trials and triumphs from our own homes, and answering your…