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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.
We welcome the husband and wife power couple in the design world, Jesse Carrier and Mara Miller. For two decades, they have designed chic, timeless, surprising spaces for their clients, some of whom you may recognize like Anna Wintour and Jessica Chastain, Annie Leibovitz, and more. They've been named to the prestigious AD100 list, and have been featured in publications like Town and Country, Vogue, House Beautiful and Architectural Digest. They've just recently released their second book, Defining Chic, and talk about embracing your personal take on luxury, designing for evolving families, and picking details that speak, scream or whisper.
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Decorating Dilemma:
Thanks Jill! We have some ideas on how to achieve that harmonious and cohesive look you desire. First, for your flooring, Jesse and Mara suggest maintaining a consistent flooring material from your entryway through the dining room. This would involve replacing the existing laminate flooring with hardwood to match the wood floors in your entryway. This change can provide a more unified and visually appealing look.
Consider more tonal or cohesive wall paint colors, especially in open floor plans. Transitioning from one room color to the next with paler or deeper shades can create a sense of continuity and sophistication in your space.
To enhance the overall look and feel of your living area, adding a lighter rug in the living room may help create contrast with the dark cabinetry in the kitchen, along with introducing colorful cushions, accent chairs, or rugs to create a coordinated color scheme throughout the space.
If you’re concerned about the rectangular rug and sectional sofa layout, there is the possibility of a custom cut rug.
Jesse and Mara emphasize the importance of maintaining a consistent floor pattern in areas where the floor follows the shape of the island, or it has multiple angles. Hope this helps and keep us updated on how it goes!
It was design love at first sight for Janie Jones and Elizabeth Miles, the designers and founders of Birmingham-based Hundley Hilton Interiors. In this episode, they talk about meeting each other and how they inspire one another as a professional duo, tips for bringing new life to antiques, and creating a color palette that is timeless. Janie and Elizabeth share some tips for creating a beautiful and unique entertaining space, having patience for making big design shifts, and the beauty of being your own art collector.
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Hi Karen! Thank you so much for writing. So, as far as Janie and Elizabeth’s recommendations, it’s all about investing in unique lighting such as lamps and lampshades that can serve as a cost-effective way to add personality to your space. When it comes to furniture, consider a dining room table and chairs that can easily transition to a new home. You can experiment with colors on window trims and explore the use of Roman shades to enhance your windows without a significant investment. Art can truly transform any space and you can always find a spot for it, no matter the size of the artwork. Pairing antique lamps with a console may be a great idea to elevate your decor. And… as Janie and Elizabeth mentioned in the earlier conversation, art doesn’t have to be acquired all at once. Collecting them over time can be a rewarding experience.
About your sofa choices, an 86-inch size is a good way to go. It’s versatile and good with various room sizes. Opting for a queen-sized bed with a headboard can be a good touch of elegance while maintaining practicality. We are rooting for you!
It’s a sexy AF show this week as the crew welcomes Bobby Berk, the design expert and Emmy-nominated TV host of Netflix’s Queer Eye. Bobby’s first book, Right at Home: How Good Design Is Good for the Mind was just released, and we are loving it already. Bobby talks about how feeling good in your space is crucial, and how to set yourself up for success. Bobby shares his one golden rule of design, the process behind writing his long-awaited book, and where to start if you’re looking for a home that feels like your own personal sanctuary.
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Right at Home: How Good Design is Good for The Mind
Decorating Dilemma
Thanks for writing to Melanie! So, from your description of the room and the artwork, it’s clear that we have some elements to work with in terms of color coordination. The art above the sofa appears to have peacock teal and burgundy hues, while the lamp and rug seem to incorporate similar shades, indicating a preference for these colors. To create balance in a room with predominantly white walls and a light sofa, Bobby would recommend considering darker drapery panels. This can help ground the space and provide a visual contrast against the white.
Additionally, if you have the space and want to add more dimension to the room, consider adding sculptural objects or decor on the walls near the paintings. This would break up the monotony of rectangular shapes and add visual interest.
Regarding the coffee table, styling it with a stack of books, a small plant, or other decorative items could bring more personality to the room. However, this should be done with consideration for any kids in the household who might interact with these items.
In terms of pillows, coordinating them with the new rug's color scheme (teal and similar shades) can tie the room together and create a cohesive look.
It’s all about trials and triumphs this week as we unpack the arrival of early Christmas presents, sliding doors leading to leaky floors, and the happy feeling when your teenager loves to pull weeds. We also talk about taking recommendations from paint colors from non-professional but well-meaning people, remembering to slow yourself down and not rush through projects, and prepping for an epic Halloween party.
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This week our guest is S.C.-based interior designer Molly Basile, who brings an enjoyable twist to the often daunting task of home decor budgeting. Molly is renowned for her fresh, clean, and timeless interior designs. She has collaborated closely with our team at the Mount Pleasant store, recognizing her expertise in tackling budget-related topics. Molly provides valuable insights on budget initiation, prioritizing essential expenses, and obtaining cherished pieces within your financial constraints. Additionally, she shares firsthand observations, including specific figures from her experiences in the field.
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Decorating Dilemma
Thanks Emily! First, don’t change your house color just because everybody else copied you. We all agree that you can keep it white, because we love the warmth and traditional feel that the white exterior brings. Molly notes that you could consider adding some shutters with darker colors if you want to create layering and set yourself apart.
For the green, a more traditional green is where you want to look. One suggestion that Molly had is one from Farrow & Ball. We can’t wait to see the finished library too - be sure to send in pics!
This week we welcome celebrated architect and true luminary in the field, Stan Dixon. Stan is known for his timeless and seamlessly integrated classical approach to architecture and has numerous accolades under his belt, including being named one of the ‘New Faces of Southern Style’ by Garden & Gun, and prestigious awards such as the SE Architect of the Year Award by Veranda Magazine. He discusses his debut book, Home: The Residential Architecture of D. Stanley Dixon, and the beautiful way his book not only shows the gorgeous rooms and spaces but really details how people spent their real lives in the house. Stan talks about how to figure out which details to bring into a project, and how it’s all about the relationship between fixtures and the rest of the space.
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Hey there! So when it comes to choosing fixtures, it’s crucial to consider how they interact with the overall aesthetics of your room. As Stan reminds us, it's all about the relationship between fixtures and the rest of the space. In your case, we would recommend going with the bamboo fixture. It offers a unique contrast to the light fixtures hanging over the island, creating visual interest in the room. To soften the light and enhance the ambiance, consider adding shades to the bamboo fixture. This will not only provide a prettier and more diffused light but also contribute to the overall atmosphere you're aiming for in your space. Another option is that you don’t need a chandelier, because you may not be able to fully see the TV.
If you need more light, you can add lamps although it looks like you already have enough. We love your layering and also feel that maybe some pattern or colored shades could be fun. Great job and let us know how it goes!
Take a deep, restorative breath this week as we welcome Joshua Smith, an accomplished interior designer who has been transforming spaces and creating homes that evoke comfort and beauty since 2012. Joshua's journey began with a rich background in Texas real estate, which eventually led him to pursue his passion for interiors. After graduating from the New York School of Interior Design, he embarked on an inspiring journey under the mentorship of Steven Gambrel, a renowned figure in high-end residential and commercial design. Joshua's experiences culminated in the establishment of Joshua Smith, Inc. in 2013, earning him national recognition and features in esteemed publications such as House Beautiful, Veranda, and The New York Times. In this episode, Joshua talks about his creative process, his unique design philosophy, and his insights on creating spaces that resonate on a sensory level, making them truly feel like a home.
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Decorating Dilemma
Hi Kelly! First, we are all really impressed with your creativity and attention to detail. You have so many fantastic options to consider, and the choices you have presented are far from awkward! So first, Joshua points out that working with high ceilings like yours can often be a challenge, but they also open up a world of possibilities. The great thing here is that there’s no wrong choice. A few options stood out to Joshua when we reviewed your ideas and sketches. One particularly intriguing concept involved panels and the potential addition of Roman shades. The notion of using Roman shades is especially clever given the height of the windows. This approach minimizes the apparent distance between the rod and the tops of the windows. The excess fabric from the shades might unintentionally draw attention away from the windows themselves; the goal, of course, is to frame that gorgeous view and let in ample light.
After analyzing various rod placements, including placing it close to the crown or about 12 to 18 inches above the window casings, a new approach began to take shape.
Instead of a highly tailored Roman shade, we recommend a more relaxed style, often referred to as a "scooped" Roman shade. Now, let's talk about colors and patterns. Given the brick's strong presence and the desire to frame the view, we suggest solid-colored sheers that blend harmoniously with the room's palette. For the scooped Roman shades, a subtle pattern can add interest without overwhelming the space. The key is to complement the view rather than compete with it. So, consider a neutral shade for the sheers and a gentle, understated pattern for the scooped Roman shades.
We are confident your space will be transformed into a soft and well-balanced environment that showcases your impressive view. You’re on the right track and we can’t wait to see the final results!
Discover the world of interior design through the lens of Hayley English, a Pasadena-based designer known for her embrace of warm finishes and hand-block printing methods. With a keen eye for patterns, colors, and textures, Hayley crafts inviting spaces that beautifully blend English and French design influences. In this episode, she shares insights on comfortable yet beautiful living environments that maintain their allure while allowing for flexibility, making her approach both sophisticated and practical. She talks about how to find your hero fabric and why she calls paisley her “happy fabric”. Hayley also talks about the surprising aspects of designing in Pasadena, CA, and how to bring that historical element into a modern-day home.
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Decorating Dilemma
Hi Jordan! First off, we love your creative ideas already, and we applaud your dedication to embarking on home projects - we know they are no small feat. Regarding your question about incorporating accordion doors, it's a fantastic concept. Replacing the one large wall with accordion doors, even if they feature predominantly glass panels, could flood the area with natural light, transforming the atmosphere. Your inclination towards preserving the open feel of the space while maximizing sunlight is commendable.
Your thoughtfulness in creating a multifunctional space, rather than just a "man cave," is excellent. Flexible furniture pieces, like a sleeper sofa or nesting tables, offer versatility for various occasions, be it family gatherings or cozy movie nights.
The suggestion of built-ins is spot on. Incorporating built-in storage along the TV wall not only maximizes utility but also adds a touch of sophistication. Additionally, echoing design elements and finishes from the main house into this space creates a cohesive and harmonious transition.
The idea of leaving the walls crisper for a light-filled ambiance is well-founded. As far as the stairs, a slight lightening of their hue could enhance the overall space.
Hayley agrees that investing in quality rugs and textiles is wise. Your instinct for natural materials like wood finishes and pops of burnt orange is fantastic and will indeed contribute warmth and character.
Lastly, the Crayola mess-free markers suggestion is a brilliant tip – maintaining a stylish space while accommodating little ones' creativity is a win-win.
We can’t wait to see what you come up with, and remember to send us updates!
This week, we welcome history buff Mike Lemieux and designer Jen MacDonald, stars of HGTV’s ‘Houses with History’. These passionate preservationists are dedicated to restoring historic homes in and around Plymouth, Massachusetts. With over a decade of experience, Jennifer and Mike have a knack for uncovering and reviving these architectural gems. In this episode, they talk about how they got into historic preservation, tips for decorating with a historic aesthetic, and their unique perspective on preservation.
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It’s been a while since we’ve all caught up with each other, so we thought it would be great for another trials and triumphs episode! We start off talking about laundry room storage solutions, chinoiserie wall murals, and who of us is in their purple moment. Then, we talk about switching out a queen bed for a twin room, and the decorating that comes along with giving it a total refresh. We chat about colors and textures we are loving right now, and how a tape measure seems to just make everything better.
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Amanda is a wife. A mother. A blogger. A Christian.
A charming, beautiful, bubbly, young woman who lives life to the fullest.
But Amanda is dying, with a secret she doesn’t want anyone to know.
She starts a blog detailing her cancer journey, and becomes an inspiration, touching and
captivating her local community as well as followers all over the world.
Until one day investigative producer Nancy gets an anonymous tip telling her to look at Amanda’s
blog, setting Nancy on an unimaginable road to uncover Amanda’s secret.
Award winning journalist Charlie Webster explores this unbelievable and bizarre, but
all-too-real tale, of a woman from San Jose, California whose secret ripped a family apart and
left a community in shock.
Scamanda is the true story of a woman whose own words held the key to her secret.
New episodes every Monday.
Follow Scamanda on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.
Amanda’s blog posts are read by actor Kendall Horn.
