How to Decorate
How to Decorate
Ballard Designs
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 burning decorating questions. Brought to you from the Ballard Designs team.
Ep. 425: Spatial Alchemy with Olga Naiman
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the profound impact of intention, dignity, and symbolism in home decor, as well as practical steps for releasing outdated patterns in one's home environment.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: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate Podcast 00:34 Meet Olga Naiman: The Intersection of Psychology and Design 02:51 Defining Spatial Alchemy and Its Impact 04:45 Olga's Personal Journey from Psychology to Design 07:19 Linking Home Design with Personal Development 12:07 Tips for Applying Spatial Alchemy in Daily Life 27:39 Routine to Ritual: Infusing Dignity into Daily Habits 31:23 Everyday Enhancements: Elevating Your Daily Routines 32:46 Symbols and Their Unconscious Influence in Your Home 38:37 Beyond Decluttering: The Process of Dissolving 44:35 Doorways as Key Focal Points in Home Design 47:55 Crafting a Tranquil Entryway to Your Home 51:12 Conclusion and Resources to Explore More Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠ballarddesigns.com⁠⁠⁠ | Shop New Fall 2025 Items Now! ⁠@olganaiman⁠ | Designer IG 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Aug 5
58 min
Ep. 424: Exploring Our NEW Fall 2025 Items!
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: Eton Sofa - https://bit.ly/4obmJIN The Netta Chandelier - https://bit.ly/4ocNE72 Merriton Green Fabric - https://bit.ly/46ts47X Scotty Woven Tray - https://bit.ly/455W0ED Marion Bedding - https://bit.ly/4mhWVsG Greek Key Rug - https://bit.ly/40ILUIF Lisette Bistro Table - https://bit.ly/3GZs1X8 Dottie Coffee Table - https://bit.ly/46yRq4q Amelia Collection - https://bit.ly/46xEs6U Loire Side Table - https://bit.ly/4ogvyRK Jolene Table Lamp - https://bit.ly/44UXhQh Judy Buffet Lamp - https://bit.ly/3IJV2GT Pierre Bedding Collection - https://bit.ly/45erRDf Newberry Furniture Collection - https://bit.ly/3Hbv0M5 Maxine Nightstand - https://bit.ly/46xF8cs Rena Media Cabinet - https://bit.ly/3IOb8PD Winslow Woven Urn and Pedestal - https://bit.ly/3IQkrys Leanne Bookshelf - https://bit.ly/40C5mXy Samantha Canopy Bed - https://bit.ly/40IMZAd What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:34 Exciting New Product Launches 02:00 Seasonal Inspirations and Trends 10:05 Color and Fabric Highlights 11:33 Pattern Play and Design Tips 30:09 Tortoise Accessories and Nature-Inspired Decor 35:28 Charming Table Lamps 36:41 The Fandelier Revolution 37:45 Miles Redd Collection Relaunch 39:56 Artisanal Decor Highlights 40:50 Winslow Vase and Versatile Tables 44:10 Custom Rug Program 47:14 Elegant Brown Furniture 56:31 Suzanne's Closet Collection 01:08:26 Final Thoughts and Shopping Tips Also Mentioned: ⁠ballarddesigns.com⁠⁠ | Shop New Fall 2025 Items Now! 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jul 29
1 hr 13 min
Ep. 423: An Intentional Home with Caitlin Creer
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: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:33 Meet Designer Caitlin Creer 00:53 Caitlin's Journey and New Book 01:41 Design Philosophy and Book Insights 02:38 Creating Personalized Spaces 03:50 Reflecting on Personal Style 06:09 Incorporating Client's Personal History 13:45 Balancing Form and Function 15:21 Designing Functional Family Homes 25:30 Making Large Spaces Feel Cozy 26:28 Designing with Layers: Floors, Walls, and Ceilings 26:59 Choosing the Star of the Room 27:26 Incorporating Texture and Color 28:24 The Recipe Analogy in Home Design 29:23 The Importance of Finishing Touches 31:05 Trends in Color and Design for 2025 33:37 Using Color in Children's Spaces 36:31 Creating a Cohesive Color Palette 39:25 Inspiration from Travel and Nature 41:05 Ralph Lauren's Influence on Design Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ballarddesigns.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Shop Now ⁠caitlincreerinteriors.com | Designer Website @caitlincreerinteriors | Designer IG Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@ballarddesigns.net⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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
Jul 22
51 min
Ep. 422: Trials and Triumphs
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: 0:00 Introduction & Quick Updates 1:00 Dyeing Bed Skirts & Finishing the Dining Room Mural 6:45 Decorating Challenges & Room Checklists 11:20 Basement Storage Renovation: Lessons & Expectations 16:30 Painting Colors & Seasonal Light Effects 27:00 Creative Projects: Stockings & Upholstery Plans 37:00 Travel Tales & Paris Adventures 42:00 Wrap-up & Housekeeping Also Mentioned: Shop Ballard Designs⁠ | Website 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jul 15
52 min
Ep. 421: Relaxed Elegance with Brittany Bromley
Caroline and Liz welcome New York-based designer and author Brittany Bromley, known for her traditional interiors with layered patterns. Brittany shares insights from her new book, 'Relaxed Elegance,' and the inspiration behind her use of antique aesthetics mixed with luxurious details. Brittany also discusses her own home renovation and her design process, including the courageous use of patterns, colors, and textures in her projects. From transforming neglected homes to crafting customized room designs, Bromley's work reflects a mix of elegance and lived-in comfort, tailored to the personalities and needs of her clients. What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:34 Meet Brittany Bromley: Designer and Author 01:18 Brittany's Home: A Designer's Vision 04:13 The Dining Room Transformation 12:29 The Art of Pattern Mixing 24:37 Bridge Hampton Residence: Humor and Tradition 27:19 Designing Double-Height Living Rooms 31:54 The Impact of a Large Window 32:20 Incorporating Color in Neutral Spaces 32:54 Choosing Muted Colors 34:09 The Role of Patterns and Textures 37:19 The Evolution of Textile Design 39:34 The Versatility of Natural Fiber Rugs 40:58 Creating Relaxed Elegance 42:11 The Importance of Patina and Layering 43:42 Using Marble in Kitchens 48:46 Balancing Cool and Warm Colors 51:58 Designing for Different Locations 53:39 The Rise of Performance Textiles 55:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jul 8
59 min
Ep. 421: Relaxed Elegance with Brittany Bromley
Caroline and Liz welcome New York-based designer and author Brittany Bromley, known for her traditional interiors with layered patterns. Brittany shares insights from her new book, 'Relaxed Elegance,' and the inspiration behind her use of antique aesthetics mixed with luxurious details. Brittany also discusses her own home renovation and her design process, including the courageous use of patterns, colors, and textures in her projects. From transforming neglected homes to crafting customized room designs, Bromley's work reflects a mix of elegance and lived-in comfort, tailored to the personalities and needs of her clients. What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:34 Meet Brittany Bromley: Designer and Author 01:18 Brittany's Home: A Designer's Vision 04:13 The Dining Room Transformation 12:29 The Art of Pattern Mixing 24:37 Bridge Hampton Residence: Humor and Tradition 27:19 Designing Double-Height Living Rooms 31:54 The Impact of a Large Window 32:20 Incorporating Color in Neutral Spaces 32:54 Choosing Muted Colors 34:09 The Role of Patterns and Textures 37:19 The Evolution of Textile Design 39:34 The Versatility of Natural Fiber Rugs 40:58 Creating Relaxed Elegance 42:11 The Importance of Patina and Layering 43:42 Using Marble in Kitchens 48:46 Balancing Cool and Warm Colors 51:58 Designing for Different Locations 53:39 The Rise of Performance Textiles 55:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jul 8
1 hr 1 min
Ep. 420: The Secrets of Timeless Design with Miles Redd
In this delightful episode of How to Decorate from Ballard Designs, hosts Caroline and Liz welcome back the charismatic and imaginative Miles Redd, 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. What You’ll Hear on This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:34 Special Guest: Miles Redd 01:33 Miles Redd's Design Philosophy 02:34 The Regency Mirror and Other Pieces 04:55 Inspiration and Auction Finds 08:32 Cinematic Design and Movie Inspirations 21:06 Upcoming Collections and Exciting Releases 23:10 Elegant Table Settings and Bamboo Details 24:00 Exciting New Projects and Collaborations 25:20 Luxurious Home Designs and Inspirations 28:45 The Grand Millennial Trend 31:51 Minimalist Aesthetics and Client Preferences 37:19 Decorating Dilemmas and Solutions 43:00 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Jul 1
44 min
Ep. 419: Design Reimagined with Corey Damen Jenkins
Caroline and Liz engage 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: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate Podcast 00:34 Special Guest: Corey Damen Jenkins 01:34 Corey’s Journey: From Automotive to Interior Design 03:34 The 779th Door: A Turning Point 06:07 Overcoming Rejection and Finding Success 09:58 Design Philosophy and Generosity 11:27 Design Reimagined: The New Book 15:13 Flexibility in Design and Life 21:03 Combining Traditional and Modern Elements 27:58 Practical Tips for Layering and Mixing Styles 34:38 The Importance of Scale in Design 34:52 Living Room: The True Heart of the Home 36:20 Sectionals: Love-Hate Relationship 38:52 A Bold Upper East Side Apartment 42:16 The Power of Jewel Tones 49:29 Designing for Families and Functionality 51:30 Launching a YouTube Series 58:05 Anchor Pieces and Budgeting Tips 01:02:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ballarddesigns.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Shop Now ⁠coreydamenjenkins.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Designer Website ⁠@coreydamenjenkins⁠ | Designer IG Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@ballarddesigns.net⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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!
Jun 24
1 hr 7 min
Ep. 418: Adding Twists to Tradition with Andrew Howard
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: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:33 Meet Andrew Howard: A Journey in Design 01:40 Design Philosophy: Playful Traditional Interiors 03:20 Creating Unique and Comfortable Spaces 07:53 The Importance of Scale and Comfort 09:48 Exploring Bold Patterns and Colors 12:38 Andrew's New Book and Instagram Insights 24:44 Commercial Design Challenges 30:12 Unexpected Office Takeover 30:55 Kids' Influence on Home Decor 32:40 The Importance of Floor Plans 34:15 Ceiling Design Insights 36:58 Essential Room Elements 38:09 The Captain's Hour Concept 40:21 Painting and Refinishing Woodwork 44:41 Exploring Color in Design 46:06 Personal Home Design Stories 52:17 Dream Project Locations 54:01 Final Thoughts and Farewell Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ballarddesigns.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Shop Now andrewjhoward.com⁠ | Designer Website @andrewjhow | Designer IG Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@ballarddesigns.net⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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!
Jun 17
58 min
Ep. 417: Crafting Colorful Elegance with Palmer Weiss
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: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:33 Meet Palmer Weiss: A Journey from Charleston to San Francisco 01:21 The Art of Using Color in Interior Design 02:00 Palmer's Background and Path to Interior Design 03:38 Launching a Design Firm: Challenges and Triumphs 08:52 Exploring Color and Pattern in Design 22:43 Client Projects and Design Philosophy 30:05 Family and Nature-Inspired Design 31:08 The Role of Upholstery in Room Design 32:12 Practicality and Color Choices 33:43 Designing for Families and Imperfections 36:15 Creating Timeless Interiors 43:35 Balancing Modern and Traditional Elements 51:27 Designing Multipurpose Spaces 53:28 Approaching Window Treatments 57:42 Conclusion and Where to Find More of Palmer's Work Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠⁠ballarddesigns.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Shop Now ⁠⁠palmerweiss.com | Designer Website ⁠⁠@palmerweiss | Designer IG Please send in your decorating dilemmas + pictures so we can answer them on an upcoming episode (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@ballarddesigns.net⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) . 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!
Jun 10
1 hr 2 min
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