Classic & Curious

Anne Kokoskie
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Classic & Curious is a lifestyle and design podcast for those who value timeless style and the art of living a well-edited life. Hosted by Anne Kokoskie, the show explores the intersection of heritage craftsmanship and modern culture. Through thoughtful conversations with artisans, designers, and cultural thinkers, we dive into the details that elevate the everyday. Our episodes cover those topics that matter - those that inspire considered living: Home & Craftsmanship: From interior design to the makers behind the objects we cherish. Travel & Exploration: Discovering historic destinations and boutique travel experiences. Entertaining & Hospitality: The art of hosting, tablescaping, and the well-lived kitchen. Culture & Storytelling: Exploring the traditions and ideas that shape our aesthetic world. Join us for a more intentional way of living, where beauty and substance meet.

  1. 26 FEB

    Elegance, Lived: Remembering Hubert de Givenchy with Linda Jane Holden

    There are certain lives that feel like a masterclass in grace — lived with intention, elegance, and a reverent attention to detail. We may know the names, admire the work, study the legacy. But rarely do we glimpse how these individuals truly lived. Today, we are honored to welcome back Linda Jane Holden — author, historian, and thoughtful storyteller. Known for her beautiful tributes to Bunny Mellon in The Garden of Bunny Mellon and Bunny Mellon Style, Linda has a gift for bringing legacy to life. In this episode, she shares something far more personal: her friendship with Hubert de Givenchy. Our conversation moves beyond fashion and into the intimate terrain of character and connection. We reflect not only on the designer who made Audrey Hepburn unforgettable, but on the man behind the maison — the friend. Through Linda’s stories, we discover that his elegance extended far beyond couture. As we close February — and what would have been his 99th birthday — may this conversation remind us that the most enduring elegance is lived intentionally, and that a truly classic life is shaped not only by style, but by friendship and love. Connect with Linda Jane Holden @lindajaneholden and Linda Jane Holden.com Connect with Anne @styledbyark.com

    39 min

  2. 12 FEB

    Pasquale & Maurice: Antiques, Heritage, and Timeless Style in Litchfield County

    In this episode, we’re inviting you into the world of Pasquale Et Maurice Home, a destination for antiques, artisanal textiles, home décor, and bespoke interior design services. Rooted in Old World craftsmanship and modern sensibility, the shop is paired with a beautifully curated online store showcasing timeless pieces sourced from across Europe and New England. You are introduced to the Co-founders Lino and Gregory. Lino, born and raised in Sicily, was immersed in the world of art, design, and luxury fabrics from an early age. The son of entrepreneurs who spent more than forty years in the textile industry, he developed a deep appreciation for aesthetics in all forms—from interiors and materiality to music and culture. His partner Gregory, raised in Provence, relocated to Sicily at thirty, where he became the creative force behind a series of commercial projects defined by a distinctly Southern Italian, farm-inspired elegance. In 2010, he opened his first concept store and restaurant in Noto, Sicily—a space whose authentic yet refined aesthetic quickly drew international attention from publications including Vogue and Architectural Digest. Today, their Washington, Connecticut location serves as both a design studio and a gathering place—an inspiring hub where antiques, décor, and interiors are grounded in history, patina, and personal meaning. Every vignette invites pause, memory, and interpretation, speaking differently to each discerning visitor. Lino and Gregory’s shared philosophy is woven into every detail: warmth, curiosity, and an open invitation to discover what resonates with you. And in this conversation, you’ll hear how their journey—from Sicily and Provence to New York and New England—continues to shape a world where beauty is intentional, stories matter, and nothing is chosen by chance. Connect:  PasqualeEtMauriceHome.com and IG:  pasquale_et_muarice_home Connect with Anne @styledbyark

    40 min

  3. 30 JAN

    Creating a Sense of Place: A Conversation with Gary McBournie & Bill Richards

    Welcome to our 50th episode, a milestone we are proud to celebrate with two designers whose work embodies the very spirit of thoughtful living. We're joined by Gary McBournie and Bill Richards of McBournie Richards, the award-winning residential interior design firm based in New York City and Boston with projects spanning the globe. Their work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Veranda, House Beautiful and Flower. Their first book, Living Color. A Designer Works Magic with Traditional Interiors, captured the early chapters of their creative partnership. Their forthcoming monograph set for Spring 2027 will highlight more recent projects and the continued evolution of their creative vision. In this episode, Gary and Bill share their perspective on creating a true sense of place - one rooted in history, layered storytelling, and an understanding of how spaces are meant to be lived in. They walk us through their approach while offering practical insight for those looking to thoughtfully bring this sensibility into their own home.  Beyond their work, their warmth, wit, and genuine joy shine throughout the conversation. Prepare to be inspired not only by their design philosophy, but by the essence of their authentic spirit. Connect with McBournie Richards @mcbournierichards and michbournierichardshome.comConnect with Anne @styledbyark

    27 min

  4. 13 JAN

    The Ritual of Tea: Mindful Living with Plain-T

    While there are many elements that shape how we live, nothing is more personal than how we care for ourselves. It is one of the oldest and most nourishing rituals in the world. In this episode, we're delighted to welcome Alex and Tathiana, founders of Plain-T, a boutique tea company located in Southampton, New York. Built on a belief that mental and physical health are enhanced through the mindful consumption of whole leaf tea. Plain-T offers an exceptional assortment of specialty, hand-selected teas sourced from the world's most prized gardens.  Their thoughtfully curated collection has become a favorite among luxury hotels and spas, fine dining restaurants, and cafes that prioritize quality and experience.  In fact, Plain-T was chosen to personally share their story and tea offerings with the Dalai Lama.  Their online destination engages through thoughtful storytelling, inviting exploration and fostering a lasting connection to the brand. At its heart, Plain-T reflects Alex and Tathiana’s personal journey with tea—a passion that reshaped their daily rituals and deepened their connection to its story and craft.  Through this journey, they came to see tea as more than a beverage, but a quiet, meaningful practice—one that invites us to slow down, savor the moment, and begin the year with intention. Connect with Plain-T: plain-t.com and plainteanycYou can shop with the code: Classic&Curious10Connect with Anne @styledbyark

    29 min

  5. 17/12/2025

    Cocktails & Entertaining with Kara Newman, Spirits Editor at Wine Enthusiast

    As the season unfolds and the calendar fills, it’s time to turn up the cheer! Whether you’re hosting at home, attending festive soirées, or settling in fireside with a favorite cocktail, this is the heart of the season for gathering and celebration. Today’s guest is the perfect guide to mixing a little extra merry and bright. We’re joined by Kara Newman—award-winning writer, author, and recipe developer. Kara is the Spirits Editor for Wine Enthusiast and a writer-at-large whose expertise has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and more. In this episode, Kara also shares her journey—from writing about financial performance to becoming one of the most trusted voices in the food and drink world today. We discuss her philosophy for creating a home bar that feels effortless and inviting. Drawing from her books Shake. Stir. Sip. and Cocktails for a Crowd, she offers smart, crowd-pleasing ideas that take the stress out of entertaining. We also talk about her newest series, The Cocktail Cabinet, and how these beautifully curated cards have become an essential for home bars and hosts alike. Join us as we toast the season—adding a little sparkle, a little ease, and just the right cocktail or mocktail to make your celebration merry and bright!  Connect with Kara at @newman_karaConnect with Anne at @styledbyark, @classicandcuriouspodcast You can find a link to Kara’s books mentioned on this podcast at styledbyark.com

    27 min

  6. 03/12/2025

    Effortless Beauty at the Table: Frankie Unsworth on Creating Holiday Style

    Welcome back to Classic & Curious—and to our Holiday Series. With Thanksgiving behind us, the season gently shifts toward intimate gatherings: dinners with friends, festive celebrations, and perhaps a New Year’s soirée on the horizon. The timing feels just right for our next guest, Frankie Unsworth, a food stylist, writer, and author of The New Art of Cooking and Last Minute Dinner Party.  Frankie's journey began as a writer for a food and travel magazine in Italy. Her passion for culture and cuisine eventually took her to Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, where she trained and lived for several years. It was in Paris that she met Rachel Khoo, British author and host of The Little Paris Kitchen whom she would go on to become her home economist. Since then, Frankie has styled food for numerous best-selling books, always bringing a signature blend of elegance, simplicity, and clarity to the table. In this episode, she invites us into that very approach — offering thoughtful tips on how simple styling can elevate the way we present food at home. We also chat about her go-to nibbles for the holidays and the selections she turns to when guests stop by. Frankie’s styling mirrors her grace and genuine nature. There’s a quiet elegance in the way she works — an ease that turns hosting into an invitation. Her talents remind us that celebration doesn’t have to be complicated — sometimes, it simply needs space to unfold. Connect with Frankie at @frankie_u and Frankieunsworth.com Connect with Anne at @styledbyark, @classicandcuriouspodcast and styledbyark.com

    30 min

  7. 26/11/2025

    Timeless Taste & Easy Entertaining: A Conversation with Dana Lewis, Founder of Proper Table

    Welcome back to Classic & Curious—and to our Holiday Series. This week, as Thanksgiving invites us to gather and give thanks, the dinner table becomes more than a place to eat—it becomes a space to connect, to listen, and to cherish the people we love. Yet in our effort to make it beautiful, we often bring stress to the surface with layers of linens and the pressure to get every detail just right. Sometimes, we simply want things elevated… yet easy. Thankfully, we have options. Proper Table is one of them—a collection of acrylic placemats and coasters inspired by vintage fabrics with timeless appeal. Thoughtfully designed for both messy and stylish eaters, these pieces prove that style and simplicity can beautifully coexist. In this episode, we welcome Dana Lewis, founder of Proper Table. Dana shares how the brand came to life, the effortless care behind these clever textiles, and her exciting collaboration with LA-based interior designer Nate Turner. Proper Table has been featured in House Beautiful and Vogue for its sensibility and style—and it’s no wonder the brand has become a beloved go-to for savvy entertainers who want to keep it easy and elevated. Dana embodies the very spirit of Proper Table: her timeless taste paired with an effortless sense of ease, she creates the very feeling that you want to bring to your own home. Connect with Proper Table at propertableco.com and @propertablecoConnect with Anne at @styledbyark, @classicandcuriouspodcast and styledbyark.com

    27 min

  8. 19/11/2025

    The Art of Living Beautifully: A Conversation with the Co-Founders of Porta, Alice & Francesca

    Welcome back to Classic & Curious and to our Holiday Series. Part of the festive season is gathering together, celebrating connections, and finding joy in the moments we share. In this episode, we meet Alice and Francesca, the co-founders of Porta—a beautiful Brooklyn-based brand whose ever-evolving collection of tableware and homewares invites us to discover, delight, and bring a sense of artistry to everyday living. Blending European heritage craft with modern sensibility, each Porta piece honors the founders’ Italian roots while reflecting the spirit of their global travels and inspirations. Alice and Francesca, childhood friends who grew up together in London and now call Brooklyn home, share their gift for storytelling, artisan collaboration, and the quiet beauty that transforms how we gather and live. Just like the artisans who contribute to their brand, they each bring a distinct creativity and individuality that sets Porta apart. Join us as we explore their brand journey, their favorite pieces, and the holiday traditions they hold dear. Connect with Porta: Porta-nyc.com and @porta_nyc Connect with Anne: @styledbyark and @classicandcuriouspodcast

    28 min
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About

Classic & Curious is a lifestyle and design podcast for those who value timeless style and the art of living a well-edited life. Hosted by Anne Kokoskie, the show explores the intersection of heritage craftsmanship and modern culture. Through thoughtful conversations with artisans, designers, and cultural thinkers, we dive into the details that elevate the everyday. Our episodes cover those topics that matter - those that inspire considered living: Home & Craftsmanship: From interior design to the makers behind the objects we cherish. Travel & Exploration: Discovering historic destinations and boutique travel experiences. Entertaining & Hospitality: The art of hosting, tablescaping, and the well-lived kitchen. Culture & Storytelling: Exploring the traditions and ideas that shape our aesthetic world. Join us for a more intentional way of living, where beauty and substance meet.

Information

  • Creator
    Anne Kokoskie
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    51
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 Styled by ARK, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    Classic & Curious

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