Style Matters

The Slow Style Home podcast is about the process of creating a beautiful, one-of-a-kind home without hurting the planet or your wallet to get there. Slow Style is an antidote to fast-paced micro trends and disposable decor and the pressure we've been feeling to live in this instantaneous, perfect home. My name is Zandra Zuraw and I'm really excited to introduce you to Slow Style.  On the show, you'll hear solo episodes with me as well as  interviews with the best pros working in the interior design field. 
To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!
Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode of the Slow Style Home Podcast, I sat down with Michael Bartz, a homeowner who built and lives in a tiny home with his partner and three cats. Michael's journey to sustainable living began in 2015 after a life-changing breakup, leading him to question traditional housing and embrace the tiny house lifestyle. He built his 175-square-foot mobile home in his brother's backyard over four years, relying on YouTube, books, and the National Tiny House Jamboree for guidance. Michael later found a perfect spot to park on an elderly couple's farm, facilitating a community-oriented living arrangement. We discussed the challenges and rewards of off-grid living, the importance of aligning home design with personal values, and the impact of his podcast, 'In Over My Head.' Michael's story highlights the potential for a fulfilling, lower-impact lifestyle through intentional living and creative problem-solving.
To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!
Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this solo episode, we will explore step three of my Slow Style framework, which is all about executing your vision for a room makeover. I'm here to guide you in thoughtfully connecting your design choices to the personal visions and values that matter most to you. I emphasize the importance of resisting impulsive shopping and instead carefully selecting decor that truly reflects your personality and passions. I talk about how to use tools like mood boards, which can help you translate the feelings and experiences you want in your space into specific design elements. My goal is to help you create a unique, personal style for your home.
To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!
Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I sit down with Samantha Stathis Lynch of Samantha Ware Designs to explore her rich background in art authentication and interior design. Samantha shares her journey from galleries to working at the prestigious De Gournay, and how she incorporates her deep understanding of art history into accessible interior design for all. She discusses the importance of mixing various design eras to create a layered, personalized home aesthetic and offers valuable tips for antiquing and spotting quality pieces. Samantha emphasizes the significance of creating homes filled with beauty and authenticity while also championing the eco-friendly aspects of reusing antique pieces. Her insights stress the importance of your home reflecting your story and personality, making each space unique and joyful.

To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!
Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I talk with Abi Dare, author of 'The Soft Minimalist Home' and the 'These Four Walls' blog. We discuss her unique take on minimalism, which is not just about having fewer things but about making space for what truly matters. Abi explains that minimalism is an approach rather than a rigid style, and how her synesthesia influences her preference for a neutral and calm home environment. She highlights that minimalism can look different for everyone—whether it's a calm, neutral space or a vibrant room full of art. We also talk about practical examples from her book, which includes homes that are both colorful and minimalist. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creating a home that reflects your personality and supports your well-being. We also discuss why style matters and how decluttering and intentional design can lead to a more fulfilling home environment.
To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!
Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I chat with Nicole Johnsey Burke, founder of Gardenary and author of Kitchen Garden Revival, about optimizing outdoor spaces —be it a large yard or a small balcony— for growing vegetables. Nicole shares her personal journey from overcoming food addiction to becoming a garden expert and discusses how gardening can foster a deep connection with our homes. She offers step-by-step guidance on planning, planting, and maintaining a kitchen garden, emphasizing seasonal crops, companion planting, and aesthetics. Nicole shares practical tips for beginners and highlights the importance of daily gardening habits. Her insights inspire a newfound appreciation for the benefits of kitchen gardening, rekindling a tangible connection to home and nature. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!
Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

My guest today is my friend and fellow podcaster, Rebecca West. Her book, “Happy Starts At Home,” is in its second edition and therefore giving me the opportunity to share it all with you. Her book will give you tons of thoughtful exercises to help you think through big decisions when it comes to designing and decorating your home. In this conversation, we zero in on questions of how to spend money well, how to talk with your partner, or anyone else you may be living with, and how to get the most out of renting, if you don’t own a home, because Rebecca is currently renting in Paris! Here’s Rebecca.
To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!
Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I host designer Jo Berryman, who discusses her book 'Expressive Interiors.' Jo encourages homeowners to be fearless and bold in their design choices, emphasizing the importance of expressing one's true self through their living spaces. We explore various design principles such as harmony and discord, the significance of trust in the design process, and the value of personal and meaningful starting points for decor. Jo shares insights on how to blend different styles, colors, and textures, ultimately aiming to create unique and inspiring interiors. I share actionable advice on developing confidence in personal design choices and the importance of creativity in home decor.
To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!
Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

Today is the second episode in my series about the Slow Style Framework, a method I use to teach people how to create meaningful, beautiful homes one room at a time. The first episode covered step one, Envision, and today's episode focuses on step two, Experiment. This episode emphasizes the valuable lessons learned from experimenting with items you already own before making new purchases. By rearranging and repurposing existing furniture and decor, you can save money and gain confidence in your design decisions. Through examples from bedrooms and living rooms, I illustrate how paying attention to your needs and experimenting helps you identify functional and aesthetic elements that align with your vision. I also provide tips on conducting a home audit and recognizing what truly enhances your space. The goal is to develop a personal, meaningful style without rushing into purchases, ensuring each design choice is thoughtful and intentional.

Listen to the first episode in the Slow Style Home Framework series HERETo use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!
Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode, I interviewed Liz Bell Young, the author of 'Let There Be Havens.' Liz is a multi-talented individual whose work spans across essays, poetry, and creative thinking, all aimed at fostering deeply felt human connections. We discussed the concept of 'havens,' not just as physical spaces but also as any place or interaction that provides comfort and support.
 
Liz shared her diverse professional journey, including her memoir 'In The Wide Country Of Love,' her creation of Haven Magazine for Anthropologie, and her writings in various prestigious journals. She has also worked with prominent clients like Procter and Gamble and Stan Smith Events. We talked about her personal experiences, including her ambitious side, her aspiration to be a mother, and her various living situations that shaped her understanding of creating comfortable home environments. 

She emphasized the importance of authenticity and accessibility in creating havens. The conversation also covered Liz's unique mapping exercises and creative events like a dinner for 500 women and an indoor tent installation. Throughout, Liz highlights the importance of collaboration, genuine self-expression, and making havens accessible to everyone, regardless of resources.
The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.