How to Decorate
This podcast teaches listeners how to decorate their homes, featuring interviews with interior designers, personal stories from the hosts, and answers to audience questions. It is produced by the Ballard Designs team, a home furnishings company.
Episodes
Ep 469: Faux Botanicals & Dark Paint with Abigail Ahern
We are thrilled to welcome British interior designer Abigail Ahern to the podcast! Known for breaking all the traditional design rules, Abigail is famous for her signature moody palettes, her bold take on botanicals, and her wildly popular faux floral collection. In addition to her booming interior design business, she has an e-commerce site, five books, and a popular YouTube channel.
Abigail sit
Ep. 468: Expert Gardening Tips with Katie Tamony of Monrovia Plants
Today, Caroline and Tayrn are thrilled to welcome Katie Tamony to the podcast! Katie spent a decade (2001 to 2011) as the Editor-in-Chief of Sunset Magazine, celebrating the seamless indoor-outdoor living of the West Coast. Today, she heads up marketing and trend forecasting for Monrovia, one of the country's premier plant nurseries.
Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, Monrovia grows ove
Ep. 467: Dorm Room Design 101 with Lauren DeLoach
We have a wonderful returning guest this week! Atlanta-based interior designer Lauren DeLoach is back on the podcast to share everything she learned while designing and installing her daughter's freshman dorm room at Ole Miss.
As we launch the new Ballard Designs dorm line, Lauren sits down with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to give the ultimate masterclass in dorm decorating. She explains how she tac
Ep. 466: Trials and Triumphs
We are back for a long-overdue "Trials & Triumphs" episode! It has been a hot minute since Caroline, Taryn, and Liz sat down to share their personal home updates, but they have plenty of stories to catch up on.
Caroline gives a highly anticipated update on her daughter Birdie's room and shares a hilarious PSA about why you should always check your pockets before doing laundry. Plus, the ladies di
Ep. 465: Nathan Turner's New Book "I Love Decorating"
We are thrilled to welcome a designer who perfectly embodies American laid-back, high-style design: Nathan Turner! As a fifth-generation Californian, his work is infused with sunny colors, natural textures, and bold, fun touches. Nathan joins Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to talk about his highly anticipated third book, I Love Decorating: Creating Stylish, Thoughtful, and Personal Spaces.
Nathan share
Ep. 464: Bring Travel Inspiration Home with Jessica Whitley
Today we are thrilled to welcome Jessica Whitley, the creative director of Jessica Whitley Studios in Athens, Georgia. Jessica is a true multihyphenate: a former corporate CPA who swapped crunching numbers for designing beautiful spaces and creating art!
Jessica sits down with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to share her serendipitous career pivot, why she treats her own home like a "test kitchen," and
Ep. 463: Flowering Outdoors with Margot Shaw
We are so excited to welcome one of our favorite guests back to the podcast—the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Flower Magazine and a true entertaining expert—Margot Shaw!
Margot sits down with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to celebrate the release of her gorgeous new book, Flowering Outdoors: Gardens and Parties. A follow-up to her bestselling book Living Floral, this new release focuses entirely on i
Bonus Episode: Introducing our NEW Spring/Summer Catalog Items!
Tuck in and get lost in the Spring 2026 catalog with us! In this special bonus episode, the team does a deep dive into the brand-new Spring/Summer 2026 Items. We’re covering all the inspiration behind the season—from earthy pastels and coastal chic vibes to the return of classic motifs like ruffles, stripes, and natural wovens.
Whether you’re looking for a "wow" moment for your bedroom with the w
Ep. 462: Young Huh's New Book + Renovating Your Forever Home
Today we are joined by a designer who has become a fixture on the decor A-List and the AD100, known for her ability to mix classic proportions with a modern, joyful energy. We are thrilled to welcome Young Huh to the podcast!
Young sits down with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to discuss her stunning debut book, A Mood, A Thought, A Feeling: Interiors. She shares the fascinating story of her career piv
Ep. 461: The "Rusticator" Lifestyle with Laura Keeler Pierce
We are heading up to the beautiful coast of Maine for today's episode! Our guest is Laura Keeler Pierce, the founder and principal designer of the New England-based interior design firm Keeler & Co., and the co-founder of Rusticator, a curated home furnishings shop located in Seal Harbor, Maine.
Laura sits down with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to discuss her signature aesthetic, which masterfully bl
Ep. 460: Tradition Made New with Tim Adams
Our guest today is award-winning Atlanta architect Timothy Adams. His firm, T.S. Adams Studio Architects, has become synonymous with classical lines and highly detailed craftsmanship. Tim sits down with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to talk about his beautiful new book, Tradition Made New: Houses with a Sense of Soul and History, which celebrates homes that feel grounded, authentic, and built to last g
Ep. 459: Trials and Triumphs
We are back with a brand new "Trials & Triumphs" episode! It has been a minute since Caroline, Taryn, and Liz sat down to share their personal home updates, but they are back to spill all the details on what has been happening behind their own front doors (and as they jokingly point out, it's mostly "trials" this time around!).
Liz kicks things off by officially starting the planning phase for he
Ep. 458: The English Country Aesthetic with Steven Rodel
We are absolutely thrilled to welcome a truly iconic British designer to the show! Our guest today is Steven Rodel, Creative Director at one of the UK's most esteemed design practices, Guy Goodfellow. Guy Goodfellow is renowned for a deep knowledge of historic interiors, an impeccable eye for art and antiques, and a talent for creating homes that feel beautifully evolved.
Steven brings a distinct
Ep. 457: Timelines, Tiles, & The "Fifth Wall" with Studio Wellington
This week, we are thrilled to welcome Stephanie Abernathy and Ashley Malone, the creative forces behind Studio Wellington. With backgrounds in history, art history, political science, and interior design, this dynamic duo brings a uniquely informed approach to their projects.
Currently in the thick of a massive personal home renovation, Stephanie shares the unvarnished reality of what it actually
Ep. 456: Carson Kressley Mini-Series Pt. 4 - Pat Altschul
We are wrapping up the Carson Kressley mini-series with a bang! For his grand finale, Carson invites his dear friend and the "grand dame" of Charleston, Patricia Altschul—star of Bravo’s hit show Southern Charm.
Carson and Miss Pat discuss her fascinating background as an elite art advisor in the 1980s and 90s, her long-standing collaboration with the legendary decorator Mario Buatta (the "Prince
Ep. 455: Carson Kressley Mini-Series Pt. 3 - Bobby Flay
We are back for Part 3 of the Carson Kressley mini-series! This time, we are trading the design studio for the kitchen, recording live from the set of Beat Bobby Flay in New York City. Carson sits down with his good friend, the Iron Chef himself, Mr. Bobby Flay.
Bobby turns the tables and lets Carson do the baking (featuring his famous Amish-adjacent Pennsylvania Dutch custard pies!), while the t
Ep. 454: Carson Kressley Mini-Series Pt. 2 - The Junk Gypsies
We are back for Part 2 of our Carson Kressley takeover! This week, Carson invites his "partners in crime," Amie and Jolie Sikes—better known as the Junk Gypsies—to the podcast.
Broadcasting (virtually) from Round Top, Texas, the sisters share the story of how they turned a love for "junking" into a global lifestyle brand. Carson and the Gypsies discuss the magic of the Round Top Antiques Fair (th
Ep. 453: Carson Kressley Mini-Series Pt. 1 - Thom Filicia
We are popping the champagne for a very special episode! To celebrate the launch of his exclusive new collection with Ballard Designs, the fabulous Carson Kressley joins Caroline, Taryn, and Liz as a special co-host for a 4-part mini-series.
And for his first guest? It’s none other than his original Queer Eye castmate, best friend, and acclaimed interior designer Thom Filicia.
Carson and Thom ta
Ep. 452: Layered Minimalism with Elizabeth Bolognino
We are so excited to welcome interior designer Elizabeth Bolognino to the show! With offices in Westport, Connecticut, and South Florida, Elizabeth is known for her signature "Layered Minimalism"—a style that blends clean, contemporary lines with traditional warmth and comfort.
Elizabeth joins Caroline and Liz to explain why "minimalism" doesn't have to mean cold or empty: She breaks down the psy
Ep. 451: The Expressive Home with Ray Booth
We are thrilled to welcome Ray Booth back to the podcast! Ray is an acclaimed interior designer, a partner at the award-winning firm McALPINE, and the author of the beautiful new book, The Expressive Home.
Ray sits down with Caroline, Taryn, and Liz to discuss how his background in architecture shapes every interior decision he makes. He shares why he views drapery as "punctuation," the optical i
Ep. 450: Trend Report 2026
It is our favorite time of year: the 2026 Trend Report is here! Caroline, Taryn, and Liz are joined by the Ballard Designs Product Design Team—Hillary Park, and Will Turner—to break down exactly what is coming next in the world of interiors.
The team reveals the surprising colors predicted to dominate (including "Green Glow" aka Slime and "Fresh Purple"), why "Builder Khaki" is making a nostalgic
Ep. 449: Trials and Triumphs
We are back with a classic "Trials & Triumphs" episode! After a hiatus from sharing their own home updates since August, Caroline, Taryn, and Liz sit down to catch up on what has really been happening behind their own front doors.
The ladies discuss the highs and lows of homeownership, from Liz’s dining room paint regret (and redemption) to Caroline’s nightmare scenario involving a toilet overflo
Bonus Episode: Our 2026 Resolutions & Home Decorating Goals
The ladies are ready to kick off 2026 with some ambitious decorating goals! In this special bonus episode, Caroline, Taryn, and Liz sit down to map out their home and personal resolutions for the year. They are putting their goals on the record now so they can hold themselves accountable in 2027.
From tackling "treacherous" basements and organizing chaos closets to navigating the emotional transi
Ep. 448: How to Style Accessories with Page House Studio
The team is thrilled to welcome Meredith Page and Liz Livingston, the creative duo behind the Atlanta-based design firm Page House Studio. With a combined 15 years of experience in interiors and fashion, they joined forces in 2023 to create a studio that focuses on bespoke design and a curated collection of accessories—specifically, their signature pedestals.
Meredith and Liz join Caroline, Taryn
Ep. 447: Trends vs. Timelessness with Lisa Staton
We're excited to welcome Seattle-based interior designer Lisa Staton to the show. With more than 20 years of experience, her firm is known for seamlessly blending current trends with timeless appeal to create spaces that feel both fresh and rooted in history.
Lisa joins Taryn and Caroline to discuss her East Coast upbringing, how she navigates the "algorithm era" of design, and why she believes e
Ep. 446: Santa Fe Style & The Art of Layering with French & French Interiors
We're excited to welcome husband-and-wife design duo Heather and Matt French to the show. Based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, their firm, French & French Interiors, is known for creating luxurious yet livable spaces that are rich in color, pattern, and storytelling.
Heather and Matt join Caroline and Liz to discuss their unique journey from careers in natural medicine and building to becoming interior
Ep. 445: Holiday Throwback Special, Pt. 3 - Carson Kressley's Holiday Must-Haves
We are wrapping up our special three-part holiday series! For the finale, Liz takes the mic to share her absolute favorite holiday episode from the How to Decorate archive.
Liz chose Episode 386 with the delightful Carson Kressley (Queer Eye, RuPaul’s Drag Race). Liz loves this episode because Carson embodies the spirit of "lavish yet achievable" holiday cheer. In this hilarious and tip-filled co
Bonus Episode: Suzanne Kasler's Holiday House Tour 2025
Surprise! We are dropping a special bonus episode today. If you haven't seen it yet, we recently shared a stunning holiday house tour on our YouTube channel with the queen of Christmas herself, designer Suzanne Kasler.
In this audio version of the official YouTube house tour, Caroline introduces a conversation between Suzanne and Ballard Designs President, Karen Mooney. They walk through Suzanne’
Ep. 444: Holiday Throwback Special, Pt. 2 - Taryn's Hosting Tips & Tricks
We are back for part two of our special three-part holiday series! This week, Taryn takes over the host chair to introduce her favorite holiday episode from the archives.
Taryn chose Episode 388: The 2024 Holiday Hosting Special, a sentimental favorite because it was recorded right at her own dining room table in her new home. In this cozy and practical conversation, the ladies discuss navigating
Bonus Episode: Our Thoughts on Pantone's 2026 Color of the Year
The team is back for an emergency design session! Caroline, Taryn, and Liz hop on the mics to discuss the breaking news of the 2026 Pantone Color of the Year: Cloud Dancer.
While the hosts usually love dissecting color trends (and loved last year's Mocha Mousse), this year's selection of a "soft, airy white" has left them confused, bored, and a little suspicious. In this short bonus episode, the
Ep. 443: Holiday Throwback Special, Pt. 1 - Janie Molster
We are kicking off a special three-part holiday series! For the next few weeks, Caroline, Taryn, and Liz are each taking a turn replaying their absolute favorite holiday episode from the podcast archives.
To start us off, Caroline revisits Episode 117 with Richmond interior designer Janie Molster. Caroline chose this episode because it completely changed her philosophy on holiday decorating. Jani
Ep. 442: Transitional Style & Holiday Decorating with Sara Hillery
We're excited to welcome interior designer Sara Hillery to the show! Based in Richmond, Virginia, Sara’s firm blends function with one-of-a-kind decorative pieces to create story-driven rooms. Named a "Next Wave Designer" by House Beautiful and featured in Veranda and The Wall Street Journal, Sara joins Caroline and Liz to demystify "transitional" design and share her spirited approach to holiday
Ep. 441: The World of Peter Dunham
The ladies are beyond thrilled to welcome iconic interior designer Peter Dunham to the show. After opening his design firm over 25 years ago in Los Angeles, Peter redefined the "Southern California casual" look, creating his own legendary design shop, Hollywood at Home, as well as his own textile, wallpaper, and furniture lines. He joins Taryn and Liz to discuss his debut book, The World of Peter
Ep. 440: Performance Fabrics 101 with Patrick Shelton
This week, the ladies welcome to the show Patrick Shelton, Senior Vice President of Sales at Valdese Weavers, to decode what “performance fabrics” really mean and how to choose the right one for your home.
With hands-on training across spinning, dyeing, weaving, finishing, and testing, Patrick explains yarn-based versus finish-based performance (and where InsideOut, Crypton Home, Sunbrella, and
Ep. 439: Designing for Real Life with Brian Patrick Flynn
This week, the ladies welcome Atlanta interior designer and HGTV Dream Home alum Brian Patrick Flynn to the show. Brian shares how a decade-plus in production design shaped his approach to color, materials, and storytelling, plus how becoming a dad is refocusing his work closer to home.
The conversation spans his House Tour with Ballard, the realities of designing for camera versus real life, wh
Ep. 438: Homing Instinct with Nicola Harding
This week we welcome London-based interior designer Nicola Harding to the show to discuss her latest book "Homing Instinct." Nicola—whose work spans boutique hotels, restaurants, and royalty—shares her unconventional path into design, the influence of garden design on her interiors, and her human-led approach to layouts, color, and pattern.
Listen to discover Nicola's strategy for finding a home’
Ep. 437: How to Layer Wall Art with Anne Bohne
This week, we’re thrilled to welcome featured Ballard Designs artist Anne Bohne to the show to discuss her creative journey, the inspiration behind her coastal and Southern landscapes, and how she translates hand‑painted art into textiles and home decor.
Anne shares the inspiration behind her techniques (why she loves watercolor for its immediacy and acrylic for looser washes), ways to collect a
Ep. 436: Color Pattern Texture with Vern Yip
The ladies welcome back interior designer, author, and TV personality Vern Yip to discuss his new book Color Pattern Texture: The Foundations to Make Your Home Your Own as well as his recently released HBO series Home Reimagined.
Vern breaks down a few designer secrets for how to use color, pattern, and texture together, why meaningful pieces and physical samples matter, and how to layer scale a
Ep. 435: Home Again with James Farmer
Caroline and Liz welcome back Southern GA-based interior designer and eight‑time author James Farmer to discuss his new book Home Again: A Return to Gracious Interiors. James explains the personal inspirations behind his lifelong oeuvre, how he reworked rooms at his Farmdale home, and his approach to layering tradition, comfort, and seasonality.
From a lofty Auburn condo to a Nantucket‑tinged Vi
Ep. 434: How to Work with an Interior Designer with Gordon Dunning
This week, Caroline and Liz welcome back duo designers Lathem Gordon and Cate Dunning to the show of the design duo Gordon Dunning in our NEW Atlanta podcast studio!
Lathem and Cate demystify the client-designer relationship, walk through their step-by-step process (including their famous Love‑Hate meeting), and share practical guidance on budgets, timelines, communication, construction walkthro
Ep. 433: Elements of Timeless Style with Erin Gates
Join Caroline and Taryn as they welcome designer and bestselling author Erin Gates to the show to discuss her latest book, "Elements of Timeless Style." Erin traces the book’s origins, the story of finding and renovating her “forever” 1895 home, and candid lessons from renovating while raising a family.
Erin also shares practical decorating advice from the book: why to live in a house before a f
Ep. 432: How to Approach Wall Art with Mary Elizabeth Ellenburg
Join hosts Caroline, Taryn, and Liz as they explore the artistic journey of Mary Elizabeth Ellenberg, a recently-added exclusive artist at Ballard Designs. Known for her expressive chandelier and floral paintings, Mary delves into her creative process and the influence of family and large-scale art in shaping her unique style. She discusses how her art beautifully tells personal stories while comp
Ep. 431: The R.O.I. of Design with Arianne Bellizaire
Join hosts Liz and Taryn as they welcome Arianne Bellizaire from Arianne Bellizaire Interiors in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.Known for her appearances on "Extreme Makeover Home Edition," Arianne shares her journey from accidental designer to a recognized professional, focusing on how to achieve a high return on investment (ROI) in home design.
Explore Arianne's insights on implementing ROI-focused str
Ep. 430: Balancing Old & New with Claire Staszak
Join Caroline and Taryn as they welcome Chicago-based interior designer Claire Staszak to the show, known for her expertise in historic architecture where she expertly blends tradition with modern flair.
Claire delves into her journey of transforming traditional design elements with contemporary touches. Having established her design firm a decade ago, Claire offers listeners a peek into her dist
Ep. 429: Building on Tradition with Bill Curtis and Russell Windham
Join hosts Caroline and Taryn in an engaging conversation with renowned architects William Curtis and Russell Windham of Curtis & Windham Architects as they share stories from their illustrious careers and insights from their new book, "Building on Tradition."
Discover the launch of Curtis & Windham's new book and the inspiring stories behind their architectural journey. Learn how they returned t
Ep. 428: Trials and Triumphs
Join hosts Caroline, Taryn, and Liz as they explore the latest decorating trials and triumphs from within their own homes. This time around you can expect the ladies to cover their bedroom revamps, clever storage solutions, and sprucing up spaces with the magic of new fabrics and furnishings.
Liz kicks things off sharing how she leveled up her sleeping space with a luxurious headboard and an adj
Ep. 427: Crafting Contemporary Elegance with Kim Lapin
Join hosts Caroline, Taryn, and Liz as they chat with former model turned West Coast designer Kim Lapin.
After transitioning from a modeling career and renovating seven homes in seven years, Kim founded Kim Lapin Interiors in 2020. Her design ethos focuses on mixing elevated materials with a casual feel, crafting contemporary yet livable spaces.
Kim explores how she embraces both modern and vi
Ep. 426: Designing Family-Centric Spaces with Cate Gutter
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 emb
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 ste
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, i
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 importan
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
Ep. 421: Relaxed Elegance with Brittany Bromley
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 tak
Ep. 420: The Secrets of Timeless Design with Miles Redd
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 bel
Ep. 419: Design Reimagined with Corey Damen Jenkins
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
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 pers
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, dr
Ep. 416: Home Is Where The Heart Is with Olivia Westbrooks
Caroline and Liz—joined by guest host Nakyrna Milner from Ballard Designs—welcome award-winning Atlanta designer Olivia Westbrooks. Known for her vibrant use of color and emotional approach to home design, Olivia discusses her new television show, 'Homes is Where the Heart Is,' on Hallmark Plus. The show highlights her journey of transforming family homes filled with emotional significance.
Oliv
Ep. 415: Embracing Bold Design with Susan Ferrier
Caroline and Liz welcome back the renowned interior designer Susan Ferrier to the show. Known for her dramatic, atmospheric interiors that blend boldness with practicality, Susan shares insights from her recent projects and design philosophy.
This episode delves into creating emotionally resonant rooms, balancing light and dark elements, and transforming architectural challenges into stunning fo
Ep. 414: 100 Ways to Feel at Home with Emma Kemper
Caroline and Liz sit down to chat with New York-based interior designer and author Emma Barrell Kemper, who shares insights from her new book, House Rules: 100 Ways to Feel at Home. Tune in to discover practical tips on creating mood boards, selecting paint colors, and future-proofing your home, along with advice on mixing metals for a timeless aesthetic.
Emma also discusses key aspects of home
Ep. 413: Elevating Everyday Design with Kate Figler
This week, Caroline and Liz are joined by special guest host Jamie Corona from Ballard Designs' merchandising team as they dive into a delightful conversation with Nashville-based interior designer, Kate Figler.
Kate shares her remarkable journey from a kindergarten teacher to a celebrated interior designer with insights into using regional influences to shape beautiful yet practical interiors.
Ep. 412: How We Make Our Products at Ballard Designs
In this special episode, Caroline and Liz take a deep dive into the fascinating world of product development and sourcing at Ballard Designs. Joined by special guests Patrick Farrell, Vice President of Merchandising and Product Design, and Sarah Hall, Senior Manager of Sourcing, the team unveils the intricate journey from initial concept to finished product on your doorstep (spoiler alert: the who
Ep. 411: Dorm Room Decorating with Frances Lacefield Hovis of Room 422
We welcome Frances Lacefield Hovis to the podcast, founder of the dorm-focused furniture company Room 422. Caroline, Liz, and Frances excitedly unveil the new Ballard Designs Dorm Collection in partnership with Room 422.
Throughout the episode, Frances shares her inspiring journey in starting Room 422 and discusses the creation of custom dorm bedding and decor. Frances also offers a wealth of ad
Ep. 410: Crafting Stunning Arrangements with Canaan Marshall - Outdoor Mini-Series Pt. 4
We conclude our four-part outdoor mini-series with special guest Canaan Marshall, a floral designer renowned for his breathtaking arrangements featured throughout Season 1 of HBO Max's Full Bloom.
Canaan shares his journey into floral design, offering invaluable tips on shopping for plants, creating stunning arrangements from grocery store flowers, and effectively maintaining your garden. The di
Ep. 409: How to Shop for Plants Like a Pro Gardener with Mark Thompson - Outdoor Mini-Series Pt. 3
We continue our outdoor mini-series by welcoming Mark Thompson to the show, co-owner of two iconic Birmingham businesses specializing in gardening and home decor. Mark shares his journey into the gardening world and provides valuable tips on how to shop for plants, care for them effectively, and tackle common gardening challenges.
Listeners will gain insights into the importance of setting realis
Ep. 408: Mastering Outdoor Spaces with Landscape Designer Carmen Johnston - Outdoor Mini-Series Pt. 2
In Part 2 of our Outdoor Mini Series, we welcome back landscape designer Carmen Johnston to talk about the art of decorating your outdoor spaces. Caroline and Liz discuss Ballard Designs' new Spring releases with Carmen and the importance of planning, choosing the right plants for your garden's sunlight exposure, and the use of frost-free dates for planting.
Carmen also provides practical advice
Ep. 407: Spring Gardening Tips from Landscape Architect Brantley Snipes - Outdoor Mini-Series Pt. 1
This week, Caroline and Liz kick off a special four-part spring outdoor mini-series, welcoming back Mississippi-based landscape architect Brantley Snipes to the show. Together, they explore essential topics for spring gardening, including landscaping best practices, creating functional outdoor spaces, planting strategies, and tackling common challenges.
Brantley shares expert insights on effectiv
Ep. 406: Defining Elegance with Marshall Watson
We're thrilled to welcome back renowned interior designer Marshall Watson to the show to discuss his latest design book, Defining Elegance.
Through Defining Elegance, Caroline and Liz explore Marshall's design principles plus how he seamlessly blends history with modern sensibilities across a variety of stunning environments, from the sun-drenched shores of Florida to the picturesque landscapes
Ep. 405: Interiors of a Storyteller with Stephanie Sabbe
Join Caroline and Liz as they welcome back Nashville interior designer Stephanie Sabbe to the show for an insightful and engaging discussion about her latest book Interiors of a Storyteller.
Known for her unique ability to blend historic charm with modern sensibilities, Stephanie shares the personal stories that inform her design philosophy and journey. In this episode, you'll discover not just t
Ep. 404: Trials and Triumphs
Join Caroline, Taryn, and Liz for another exciting Trials and Triumphs update!
Liz kicks off the episode by sharing her winter projects, including hosting Thanksgiving successfully and revamping her dining room chairs with Ikea fabric. Taryn follows with her creative updates to her son's room, including repurposed headboards and DIY bedding. Caroline then shares a recent triumph with reupholstered
Ep. 403: Coastal Designs with Stephanie Mahaney
Taryn and Liz welcome designer Stephanie Mahaney to the show. Formerly the lead designer at the esteemed Campbell Interiors, Stephanie founded Stephanie Rae Interiors in 2014 and brings her flair for bold, colorful design to a wide array of clients between coastal Jupiter, Florida, and serene Maine.
Our discussion dives into the nuances of designing homes in contrasting coastal environments, tailo
Ep. 402: Antique Hunting Tips & Tricks with Debbie Mathews
Caroline, Taryn, and Liz welcome back Debbie Mathews to the show, an antiques expert & dealer with over 30 years of experience running her showroom and design business in Nashville, Tennessee. Debbie shares her valuable insights on selecting timeless antique pieces that can seamlessly integrate into any home.
Debbie also addresses essential pieces for newcomers to the antique world, provides pract
Ep. 401: Decorating Trend Report for 2025
What interior design trends are we seeing across the industry here at Ballard Designs, you wonder? Join Caroline, Liz, and Taryn as they welcome back two of Ballard's talented product designers—Hillary Park & Will Turner—who share their expert forecasts, insights, and opinions about 2025's expected decorating trends.
On top of unveiling industry trends, we also excitedly announce this year's ne
Ep. 400: Celebrating 400 Episodes with Karen Mooney + Q&A's!
Can you believe it’s been 400 episodes already??? Join Caroline, Taryn, Liz, and Karen as they take a delightful stroll down memory lane, reflecting on their fabulous eight-year journey through the world of interior design and podcasting. Get ready for some laughs, nostalgia, and a whole lot of love as they share stories of personal growth, lessons learned, and the amazing friendships made along t
Ep. 399: This is Home with Jeffrey Alan Marks
This week, we're thrilled to welcome renowned designer Jeffrey Alan Marks to the show, known for his appearances on Bravo's Million Dollar Decorators and his acclaimed book, The Meaning of Home. In our conversation, we dive into his latest work, This is Home, released this month with Rizzoli.
The conversation explores Jeffrey's journey from his California roots to his training in London, revealing
Ep. 398: Timeless Design Tips with Liz Williams
This week, we’re delighted to welcome Liz Williams, a distinguished interior designer and founder of Liz Williams Interiors here in Atlanta. Trained under the talented Carter Kay, Liz has cultivated a unique style that marries timeless elegance with Southern charm. Her stunning work throughout the Southeast reflects her passion for antiques, skillfully combining traditional elements with modern de
Ep. 397: The Secrets of Slow Design with Gabriela Eisenhart
We have the pleasure of welcoming to the show Gabriela Eisenhart: the talented founder of Silo Studios in Atlanta, GA. With over a decade of experience & notable features in Architectural Digest and House Beautiful, Gabriela has made a name for herself designing beautiful spaces that blend personal stories with warmth and comfort.
In this episode, Gabriela shares her philosophy of slow design, whi
Ep. 396: Classic by Design with Michael S. Smith
We are thrilled to kick off 2025 by welcoming the legendary Obama White House interior designer Michael S. Smith to the show. With nearly 35 years in the industry, Michael has an incredible wealth of knowledge when it comes to creating beautiful spaces that blend traditional charm with modern elegance. During our conversation, he shares insights from his latest book, "Classic by Design," offering
Ep. 395: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 3)
In the third and final installment of our decorating throwback series, Taryn shares her favorite episode with the group and teases the comprehensive mini-series on home building (episodes 229-232).
This mini-series brings together a wealth of expertise from interior designer Maggie Griffin, architect Kevin Clark, and builder Aaron Burgess. The conversations cover essential topics, including how to
Ep. 394: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 2)
Continuing their series of favorite throwback episodes, Liz, Caroline, and Taryn reminisce on memorable conversations with past guests before shining a special light on Ep. 318* with Brooke and Layla Gianetti.
Liz urges listeners to listen in to the story of the Gianettis, exploring their transformative journey from California to Tennessee to establish Patina Meadow. Discover the harmonious blend
