How to Decorate

By Ballard DesignsBusiness Arts Design

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60 min
per episode

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How to Decorate episodes

September 06, 2022Ep. 269: How to Decorate Like a Parisian with David Jimenez
Today we are joined by designer David Jimenez, owner and founder of David Jimenez Studio. David is a creative force who got his start working at household names like Banana Republic, Pottery Barn, and Restoration Hardware. Six years ago he left his corporate job to move to Paris and start his design business, and he now designs spaces all over the world for his clients in that enigmatic Parisian style. His style is effortless, dripping in antiques, but also livable and fresh. This fall he is publishing his first book Parisian by Design: Interiors by David Jimenez.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
We gush over David’s new book Parisian by Design and discuss how it came together.
David’s work history started by folding clothes in the Gap and eventually, it led him to Paris.
A staple in Parisian design is using and reusing antiques and heirloom pieces.
One of David’s tips for layering a room is setting a mood and finding joy within the room during the process.
Gallery walls are a big component to Parisian design and one David has adopted; he likes to lay pieces out on the ground first before hanging.
David doesn’t limit himself by watching all wood or metal tones; it’s okay to mix and match.
Scale is very important to anchor or pull focus in a room.
David uses room dividers and screens not only for privacy but also to add a layer of color or texture.
Black and white stripes are very classic Parisian and curtains are a good way to add them to a space.
David loves to use black in a room for punctuation but especially for a lampshade.
David discusses some of his favorite French designers and how they have influenced him.
The second half of David’s book gives an insider’s guide to navigating the Parisian streets.
Certain colors are specific to Paris and hold cultural and historical significance.
David’s intention with his work is to use his expertise as a catalyst to design a space that reflects you.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Pre-Order Parisian by Design
David Jimenez Studio on Instagram
David Jimenez Studio
Madeleine Castaing
Henri Samuel
The Schwartz House

Find all of the show notes on our blog, howtodecorate.com/podcast

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53 min
August 30, 2022Ep. 268: Creative Ways to Change Your Aesthetic with Amanda Brooke Interiors
We are joined today by Houston-based designer Amanda Holliday. Amanda opened her firm, Amanda Brooke Interiors, in 2019 after working commercial and residential design for many years. Her approach is a balance of contemporary and vintage, architectural and organic, and she is an expert in experiential storytelling through your space. Amanda shares with us all of her tips, tricks, and creative ways to change your aesthetic.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
Where can you start when you are getting sick of your home?
What are your options for changing your aesthetic if you can’t change things structurally?
What swaps make the biggest impact in changing a room?
How plaster can be used to transform a space.
Why Amanda likes to break the rules when it comes to artwork and accessories.
How does Amanda like to style bookcases?
Some of Amanda’s tips to revitalize and repurpose furniture.
How to use accent lighting to completely revamp a room.
The many nuances of and versatility of lampshades.
Options for changing out fabrics.
Amanda’s instant tips if your room is feeling too dark and heavy.
What if a room is not feeling layered enough?
How to freshen up non-modern and antique pieces.
How to scale a room up.
Why Amanda challenges everyone to create their OWN artwork for their space.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Amanda Brooke Interiors
Amanda Brooke Interiors on Instagram
Amanda Brooke Interiors on Facebook
Amanda Brooke Interiors on Pinterest
Ep. 43: with designer Rachel Cannon
Petite Acrylic Easel
Kalklitir
Urban Grace Interiors on Instagram
The Schwartz House

Find all of the show notes on our blog, howtodecorate.com/podcast

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58 min
August 23, 2022Ep. 267: What Sets a Room Apart with Lorraine Enwright
Today we welcome award-winning designer Lorraine Enwright. Lorraine was the lead designer of the 2021 Serenbe Showhouse, and she also recently won Bath of the Year from Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles. We chat with Lorraine about what sets a room apart to achieve a designer look. We discuss the main differences in using a designer vs. going at it alone, why focal points are so important, and why Lorraine says the last 5% is the most important part of the room design.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
What are the main differences between those rooms done by a designer vs. a homeowner?
What resources does a designer have at their disposal?
Where do you begin the discovery process for a client that doesn’t know what they want?
How can someone understand scale and spatial relationships?
Why an emotional and instinctual connection to a style is important to pay attention to.
The details and last layers in the space are what really complete a room.
Where do people often go wrong with their details without using a designer?
Why odd numbers and asymmetry work best in design.
How often should you rotate or repurpose pieces, if at all?
Are there any times when you can ignore scale?
Every room has to have its focal point(s).
If you want to be bold or add drama, how do you know where to do it?
How to make an oversized room feel cozy.
How to work with the windows and lighting your space has.
Decorating Dilemma:
Hi “T. Schwartz”,
Normally I would suggest Roman shades, but with kids, you might want to think about roller shades. You can use really any fabric you like to customize, so they work really well and look great. You could also consider indoor shutters. If you’re wanting a uniform look from the outside of the house, both shutters or roller shades are a great choice. If you really want to do Roman shades, I would recommend having the backs of them look similar from the outside. I love woven shades for that reason. If you don’t want to worry about the chords from Roman shades you could always motorize them; especially if you’re using an installer.

Mentioned in This Episode:
Intuitive Dwellings by Enwright Designs
Intuitive Dwellings on Instagram
Serenbe Showhouse
Bath of the Year
The Schwartz House

Find all of the show notes on our blog, howtodecorate.com/podcast

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59 min
August 16, 2022Ep. 266: Designing the Perfect Entertaining Environment with Elle Cole
Dallas-based interior designer Elle Cole joins the show this week to walk us through how to design the perfect entertaining environment. Now that we are reopening our homes up to people and hosting again, Elle’s tips can get you back to feeling confident hosting events from a casual friend gathering to a larger holiday feast. Elle sheds some light on how to create the right vibe using the five senses, tips for creating an easy space to access your entertaining goodies, and her recommendation on creating a welcoming atmosphere from the minute your guests walk in up until it’s time to go home. She gives her expert advice on the staple furniture pieces a dining room needs including a table of course, along with chairs, artwork, and décor.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
Be clear on who and what you are entertaining for. Asking more questions about what you are looking to get out of entertaining each specific event is key.
Why starting with color and the five senses can help create a welcoming atmosphere.
How to decorate beautifully but still give your guests breathing room and space to enjoy themselves.
The ideal size of a dining room table to host people comfortably.
Upholstery can add a bit of your personality to the space.
How dimension and scale are also important to getting your environment feeling great.
Some ideas for colors that make your guests feel calm and welcomed.
Elle walks us through her table setting that she can bring together in 20 minutes or less.
What Elle means by the “power of one”.
Yes, you can use plastic dinnerware and paper napkins for outdoor entertaining and still have it look beautiful.
It’s important for the host to set the tone for being calm and setting good energy.
Logistics of the night including when to serve the appetizers, what to serve, and how long we should prepare our guests to be there.
You may not have 15 sets of dishes like Elle, but have at least 5 dish sets each with a different theme.
Ideas for gifts when you are invited to a dinner party and how a handwritten note is an artful and kind touch.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Elle Cole Interiors
Elle Cole Interiors on Instagram

Find all of the show notes on our blog, howtodecorate.com/podcast

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52 min
August 09, 2022Ep. 265: Trials & Triumphs
We are back with this month’s trials and triumphs. Last time, Taryn was ready to move into The Schwartz House, but some new trials are holding up their move-in date. Liz gives us an update – the good and the bad – on her meeting with the architect. Plus, Caroline shares all of the tips she learned from TikTok on how to make the perfect bed!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
Taryn is still not living in her house; what’s the hold-up?
So what IS ready in The Schwartz House?
Tips on different types of blinds.
How is Taryn feeling about her paint colors?
Liz met with the architect for her kitchen. What are they planning for the stove?
In coming up with a plan for remodeling her bathroom, Liz found out nothing is up to code.
Caroline’s tips for making the perfect bed. Thank you, TikTok!
Speaking of bed-making, how does everyone do theirs?
Please email us if you have any tips for getting wrinkles out of duvet covers!
Mentioned in This Episode:
The Schwartz House
Blinds.com
Blindster
June Kantha Quilt
Ballard Linen Duvet Cover

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45 min
August 02, 2022Ep. 264: Art 101 with Liz Lidgett
We are so excited to be joined today by Des Moines based art advisor and gallery owner Liz Lidgett. Liz works with clients in more than 45 states and 7 countries. She has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens, Business Insider, and Forbes. Part of what makes Liz’s business so successful is her accessible approach to art. For Liz, art is for everyone. We talk about all the ins and outs of how to feel good about your art investment, how to release the fear and intimidation around art galleries, and much more!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
How being based in the Midwest impacts Liz’s view on art as well as her business.
Liz’s philosophy that “art is for everyone” is intricate to her design.
Art and art galleries are for everyone; no one should ever feel like they don’t belong.
How do you buy art if you don’t know anything about it?
Why it’s important to know more about the artists behind their work.
What to do when your taste varies greatly from your partner’s.
How does Liz suggest buying art online or sight unseen?
Liz tells us more about price levels and how they are determined.
Why Liz loves commissioned pieces.
All about framing; when to frame, when it’s included, what to choose, etc.
Tips on how and where to hang art.
When should you light artwork?
What are Liz’s tips for artists to get their work in a gallery?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Liz Lidgett Gallery + Design
Liz Lidgett Gallery on Instagram
Liz Lidgett on Instagram

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1 hr
July 26, 2022Ep. 263: Pools, Patios, and Porches w/ landscape architect Brantley Snipes
We had such positive feedback on our last episode with landscape architect Brantley Snipes, that we decided we had to have her back for part 2! Brantley is a Mississippi-based landscape architect as well as the owner, lead designer, and project manager for Brantley Snipes Landscape Design. Among many accolades, Brantley was named to the Greenwood Commonwealth’s Top 30 under 40. The last time we had Brantley on the show, we talked a lot about plants and softscaping. Today we “dive” into pools and other hardscaping elements.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
What to consider when deciding to build a patio.
What are the pros and cons of concrete and when is it best to use it?
What other hard materials should be considered and when?
When should you consider using loose stone?
How to determine the size, depth, shape, etc. of a pool.
What to consider for the surrounding area of a pool; especially when kids are using it.
All about pool tiles…and why are they so limited?!
Considering liner vs. gunite pool surfaces.
Does Brantley recommend a pool cover, fence, or both?
What is a swim shelf?! And other popular pool accessories.
It’s important to consider pool storage, using the bathroom, and other elements of hosting/entertaining.
What is a realistic landscaping budget; for both softscaping and hardscaping?
Mentioned in This Episode:
Ep 248: Creating Outdoor Spaces with Brantley Snipes
Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design
Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design on Instagram
Brantley Snipes Landscape & Design on Facebook
Osmanthus Market

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1 hr 12 min
July 19, 2022Ep. 262: What Makes Upholstery Last with Hope Austin
The team welcomes Atlanta-based designer Hope Austin to the show today. Hope’s passion for craft started while working in design showrooms such as Brunschwig & Fils and Schumacher. She created her own brand, Hope Austin Interiors, where she works closely with her clients to create homes that are beautiful, comfortable and keep function top of mind. Hope talks about what’s going to make certain pieces last, starting with choosing a sofa that you like with fabric and patterns you will be excited about for years to come. She talks about how to treat the fabrics, some tips for having a nice sofa with kids and pets, and how to best clean when the inevitable wear and tear does happen. Hope also shares what she is putting in clients’ homes regarding counter stools, and how we can shop with realistic expectations.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
What really makes a sofa last?
Hope gives her tips for having a nice sofa that is both kid and pet friendly.
How do you do a white sofa?
How you can use high performance fabrics and still have a punch of personality.
What color fabric has Hope been seeing people stay excited about long term?
Do practical and nice fabrics have to be expensive?
What’s the real expectation we should have for big items such as high performance fabric, dining chairs, upholstered beds and barstools?
Cleaning tips and frequency to keep your sofa nice and clean.
Why the fabric should be your #1 priority in picking out the sofa.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Hope Austin Interiors
@hopeaustinint
Ballard Designs Performance Fabrics
Sunbrella Performance Fabrics
InsideOut Performance Fabrics
Crypton Performance Fabrics

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53 min
July 12, 2022Ep. 261: Trials and Triumphs
Today we’re catching up with this month’s trials and triumphs. Taryn is finally moving into The Schwartz House, which many of you have been following on Instagram. But…is it ready? Plus, we hear about Liz’s new kitchen renovation plans which include many upgrades but most importantly a dishwasher. Finally, Caroline tells us why she really wants to build a fence to complete the vision for her home.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
Taryn’s moving day is FINALLY here….during a heat wave!
From stair railings to bathrooms, to fireplaces, and more; the finishing touches are almost complete in The Schwartz House.
What is the update on The Purple Dining Room?
The Schwartz House’s kitchen has come together with green and brass and other perfections.
Liz has the first set of architectural plans for renovating the kitchen in her 1930s home to include a butler’s pantry, extra shelves, a dishwasher, and more!
Caroline really, really, REALLY wants to build a fence.
Did Liz try to buy Caroline’s house or was there not enough curb appeal?
Mentioned in This Episode:
The Schwartz House

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50 min
July 05, 2022Ep. 260: Best Ways to Make a Room Look Finished with Jenna Gross
Today we are joined by Jenna Gross. Jenna is the founder of Colordrunk Designs here in Atlanta. Jenna grew up in the design business spending countless hours surrounded by textiles at her family's antique and upholstery shops. After working in the fashion industry with Marc Jacobs, Jenna turned her attention to interior design. Today she serves up masterful mixes of pattern and color concocting designs that are refreshing from start to finish. Jenna gives us all of her tips on creating a finished look in a room; everything from drapery, lighting, rugs, and–you guessed it–color!

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:
What sets designer rooms apart from DIY rooms?
What timeline should people expect to achieve a fully finished look?
Jenna’s tips for choosing and hanging drapery.
How to get your lighting just right using different layers, lamps, and even can lights!
When to have pairs and when to have singles when you decorate.
Jenna’s advice for getting a rug that’s just right for the space in terms of size, texture, layering, and more.
How small details can pull together a room and allow for more customization.
How does Jenna like to use color on wood and millwork?
How can people with more neutral palettes in their rooms start to incorporate color?
What are Jenna’s thoughts on having to match various sources of color in the room?
We got to join Jenna at her Atlanta Homes & Lifestyle Showhouse room; inspired largely by vacation.
Decorating Dilemma:
Hi Amy,
It sounds like you want a really fun space. We say if you want to paint the plantation shutters, paint them how you want to see them in your space. We think you should definitely choose a fun wallpaper. If you decide you don’t like the plantation shutters, you can always take them down and do a fun Roman shade. Some of us really hate the plantation shutters (hint: Caroline) and are in favor of taking them off! As far as lacquer goes, you could do that or you could just do a high-gloss; we definitely wouldn’t do a matte. Have fun and make it as dramatic as possible because that seems to be what you’re really aiming for! We would say the Oyster Bay paint color is more of a neutral than anything bold, so it would be nice to use in the whole space. However, if you haven’t picked your wallpaper yet and you definitely want to use one, we would wait to pull a color from there. We would also paint the ceiling too!
We are excited for you! We think it’s going to look great and would love to see the after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:
Colordrunk Designs
Colordrunk Designs on Instagram
Southeastern Showhouse

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49 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…