How to Decorate

Ballard Designs
  • 4.4 (787)
  • DESIGN
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
How to Decorate

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.

  1. 21 HR. AGO

    Ep. 400: Celebrating 400 Episodes with Karen!

    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 the way. But that’s not all: We’ve got some surprise shout-outs from our beloved past guests like Rachel Cannon, Nikki Papadopoulos, and Erika Ward, who share their favorite design nuggets to inspire you. Plus, our hosts take turns answering YOUR questions, revealing what their top Ballard products are, what must-read design books you need, and the rooms that get their creative juices flowing.  Watch this week's episode as recorded live in Karen's dining room on Ballard Designs' YouTube: https://bit.ly/4hwMVtx What You’ll Hear This Episode: 00:00 – Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 00:33 – Time to Celebrate Episode 400! 🎈 00:56 – Reflecting on Our Journey Together  02:26 – Fun Decorating Tips and Personal Growth  04:01 – Listener Questions with Special Guest Stars!  05:57 – Styling Shelves with the Incredible Ginny Branch  11:17 – Behind the Scenes of Our Dazzling Photo Shoots  18:00 – Sweet Voice Memos from Our Amazing Friends  29:58 – Our Biggest Lessons Learned (Spoiler: It’s been a ride!)  39:10 – Picking the Perfect Plants for Your Pad  40:08 – Why Self-Watering Pots Are a Gardener’s Best Friend  41:01 – Exploring Fun Faux and Dried Plant Options  41:42 – Our All-Time Fav Ballard Designs Products  44:29 – The Unmatched Charm of Hand-Knotted Rugs  50:08 – Top Design Books & Inspirations on Our Shelves  01:01:09 – Dream Guests and High-Impact Decorating Tips  01:08:01 – Final Thoughts and a Heartfelt Thank You to Our Listeners

    1h 9m
  2. Ep. 399: This is Home with Jeffrey Alan Marks

    FEB 4

    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 how his unique blend of Californian cool and English coziness informs his approach to interior design. Discover the challenges he faces when blending antiques with contemporary spaces, and gain insight into the evolving preferences of clients. Jeffrey shares personal anecdotes about balancing family life with the demands of design, reflecting on the impact of significant events like the California wildfires. What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 00:33 Welcoming Jeffrey Alan Marks 01:13 Jeffrey's Personal Journey and Family 01:55 Design Philosophy and Influences 03:28 Impact of California Wildfires on Design Projects 05:01 Montecito Seaside Cottage Project: A Family Haven 06:41 Blending the Aesthetics of California and English Styles 07:52 The Challenges of Mixing Antiques with Modern Design 12:29 Adapting Design Strategies for Contemporary Spaces 16:03 Insights into Client Preferences and Evolving Design Trends 19:54 Designing for Families: Function Meets Aesthetics 21:59 Navigating Challenges in Kid's Room Design 27:29 Exploring Neutral and Minimalist Design Aesthetics 29:48 Dream Homes and a Love for Antiques 30:24 The Charm of Swedish Antiques and Venetian Plaster 31:16 Balancing Calmness and Chaos in Design Spaces 32:05 The Sullivan Canyon Project: A Rock and Roll Farmhouse 33:12 Embracing Eclectic Design and Rustic Charm 37:33 The Art of Mixing Textures and Colors for Depth 39:32 Valuable Insights from Clients and the Design Process 41:01 Finding the Perfect Color Palettes: The Power of Blue Hues 47:59 Best Practices for Mixing Antiques with Contemporary Pieces 49:57 Listener's Kitchen Renovation Dilemma: Backsplash Solutions • • 57:34 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    59 min
  3. Ep. 398: Timeless Design Tips with Liz Williams

    JAN 28

    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 designs for a timeless design style that anyone can get behind. In this episode, Liz shares her valuable insights on the evolution of design trends over the past two decades and her predictions for what’s ahead in 2025. Discover how to harmonize current trends with timeless decor to create a stylish home that stands the test of time. From thoughtfully incorporating color to selecting cherished antiques, Liz emphasizes the importance of blending personal taste with historical inspiration, resulting in a refined and enduring aesthetic that appeals to those who appreciate quality, tradition, and comfortability in their living spaces. Watch this week's episode as recorded on Ballard Designs YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/4azQTiq What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 00:33 Meet Designer Liz Williams 01:15 Liz's Journey into Interior Design 01:57 Mentorship and Style Evolution 03:19 Antiques and Modern Pairings 04:31 Trends in Interior Design 04:54 Architectural Changes Over the Years 06:30 The Return of Color in Design 17:28 Seasonal Decor and Slipcovers 26:47 Avoiding the Red Accent Wall 27:16 Exploring Color Trends: Pinks and Browns 29:28 The Mocha Moose Debate 32:18 Whimsical Design Choices 37:14 Challenges in Design Projects 41:52 Bay Window Dilemma 47:53 Final Thoughts and Farewell Decorating Dilemma: Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog: https://bit.ly/4gcyVDL Hi Erica, The hosts commended you on your lovely bay windows, which bring in great natural light! For your three distinct spaces—the guest room office, guest room, and the formal living room—Liz suggests several elegant solutions. For the bedrooms, where you need blackout solutions and sound absorption, consider using flowing full drapery panels mounted from the ceiling. This will prevent light from cutting in while providing a sophisticated look. A heavier lining will help with sound dampening, essential for your street-facing windows. In the formal living room, where you've lost original shutters, Liz recommends opting for ceiling-mounted tracks, providing a seamless, clean look. This allows for versatile panel options that can be pulled fully open or spread closed for privacy at night. Your idea of incorporating Roman shades sounds appealing as well, especially with the stained glass feature. Layering shades with decorative drapery can give added dimension without blocking too much light. Best of luck with your project, and we hope these tips help enhance the beauty of your windows! - How to Decorate Also Mentioned: Liz Williams Interiors | Website @lizwilliamsinteriors | Instagram Ballard Designs YouTube | Watch the Full Episode Ballard Designs | Shop 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!

    52 min
  4. Ep. 397: The Secrets of Slow Design with Gabriela Eisenhart

    JAN 21

    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, which emphasizes the importance of thoughtfully curating your home over time rather than rushing to fill it with decor. She encourages listeners to choose pieces that hold personal significance, ensuring that your home reflects your evolving journey. Join us as we delve into Gabriela’s insights on creating elegant and meaningful spaces that tell your unique story. Watch this week's episode as recorded on Ballard Designs YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/4g68RKI What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 00:45 Welcoming Gabriela Eisenhart: Founder of Silo Studios 02:30 Gabriela's Background and Design Journey 06:20 The Art of Timeless Design with a Modern Twist 09:15 Understanding Slow Design: Curating with Intention 12:00 Balancing Immediate Needs with Long-Term Vision 15:45 Blending Tradition and Innovation in Design 18:30 The Role of Personal Stories in Decorating 21:29 Case Study: Buckhead Condo and the Power of Art in Design 25:58 Integrating Art and Family Heritage into Spaces 28:10 Gabriela’s Home: Melding East Meets West Influences 32:05 Crafting Kitchens: The Curve of Creativity and Functionality 36:04 Mastering the Mix of Patterns and Textures 39:20 Designing Children’s Rooms: Growing with Grace 42:30 Decorating Dilemma: Wallpaper Wonders for a Cozy Apartment 47:50 Final Thoughts and Gabriella's Inspirations Decorating Dilemma: Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog: https://bit.ly/4fmFxzg Hi Julia, Gabriela and the hosts adore your happy blue kitchen and the warmth your entry grasscloth brings! To streamline your space, Gabriela suggests continuing the grasscloth into the entry area to maintain a cohesive look without overwhelming your charming New York apartment. If you're drawn to the floral pattern you mentioned, stick to using it on the mirror wall and door wall only, leaving the beam in neutral tones to serve as a gentle divider between spaces. Thank you for sharing your lovely home with us, Julia. We hope these ideas help you create the perfect balance in your apartment! - How to Decorate Also Mentioned: Silo Studios | Website @silostudiodesign | Instagram Gabriela's Homeworthy Tour | YouTube Ballard Designs Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube 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!

    52 min
  5. Ep. 396: Classic by Design with Michael S. Smith

    JAN 14

    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 a peek into his unique design approach that celebrates personal taste while respecting the historical and cultural context of each home. Michael also opens up about his remarkable experience redesigning the Obama White House, discussing how he balanced personal flair with the expectations of a public space. Plus, we dive into practical tips on selecting cherished antiques and the artful use of color to create harmonious, inviting environments that feel like home. Whether you're looking to refresh your space or simply gain inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable design wisdom and charming anecdotes that you'll want to soak up. ***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel*** What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 00:34 Welcoming Michael S. Smith 02:46 Michael's Design Philosophy and Process 06:15 Photographing and Evolving Design Projects 09:43 Blending Styles and Antiques 16:28 Shonda Rhimes' New York Apartment 22:33 Historic East River Apartment 29:42 Decorating Public Spaces: The Obama White House 33:32 Living with History: White House Furnishings 35:32 Curating the White House Art Collection 37:00 Designing for the Future: Personalization and Adaptability 38:50 Reflecting on Past Projects and Future Aspirations 40:41 Vacation Homes: Embracing Local Culture 43:28 Mountain and Mallorca Homes: Sense of Place 50:05 Material Choices: Craftsmanship and Texture 58:31 The Role of Color in Design 01:04:09 Final Thoughts Also Mentioned: 'Classic by Design' | Order Your Copy Now! Michael S. Smith | Website @jaspershowroom | Instagram Ballard Designs Watch the Full Episode w/ Images: Ballard Designs YouTube

    1h 9m
  6. Ep. 395: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 3)

    JAN 7

    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 select the perfect property, make material choices, establish relationships with contractors, and navigate critical design decisions. What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 00:34 Favorite Throwback Episodes 01:52 Building Your Own Home Series 02:49 Episode 229: Featuring Maggie Griffin: Insights into beginning the home construction journey. 03:50 Episode 230: Featuring Kevin Clark: Practical advice on architecture and land selection. 04:19 Episode 231: Featuring Aaron Burgess: Builder perspectives on team dynamics and project execution. 04:55 Episode 232: Interior Design Focus: Finalizing styles and interior details with Maggie Griffin. 06:15 Maternity Leave and Recording Challenges 18:32 Finding the Right Contractor 47:52 Prioritizing Home Features 48:31 Windows and Wildlife 49:22 Faucets and Fixtures 50:41 Lighting and Finishes 51:18 Cabinetry and Flooring 53:14 The 'While You're At It' Phase: Managing Add-Ons 56:04 The Importance of Timelines in Construction 59:23 Walkthroughs and Inspections: Ensuring Satisfaction 01:02:00 Effective Communication with Your Contractor 01:15:55 The Value of Relationships in Construction Projects 01:18:49 Final Thoughts and Takeaways Also Mentioned: @maggiegriffindesign | Instagram Ep. 229 w/ Maggie Griffin | Podcast Episode Ep. 230 w/ Kevin Clark | Podcast Episode Ep. 231 w/ Aaron Burgess | Podcast Episode Ep. 232 w/ Interior Design Focus | Podcast Episode Shop Now at Ballard Designs | Ballard Designs Website

    1h 30m
  7. Ep. 394: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 2)

    12/31/2024

    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 of farming and design and the lessons learned from this unique lifestyle shift. Gain insights into biodynamic farming, developing vibrant garden spaces, and how they are building a community through creativity and collaboration.** *This throwback episode was originally published 7/18/2023 **Follow along with this throwback episode's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog: https://bit.ly/3BMzHtd What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ballard Designs Podcast 01:45 Liz's Most Memorable Guests and Episodes 04:00 Reminiscing on the Giannetti Family Episodes 07:36 Interview with Brooke and Layla Gianetti 11:11 Life at Patina Meadow 25:57 Biodynamic Farming and Gardening 31:13 The Bloomery and Future Plans 36:57 Balancing Work and Farm Life 37:44 The Unexpected Arrival of Baby Guinea Fow 39:19 The Origin of Patina Home and Garden 43:04 Discovering Pottery and Teaching Classes 44:58 Building a Community Through Art and Learning 51:23 Design Work and Future Projects 59:31 Decorating Dilemma: Adding Color and Warmth 01:12:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell Also Mentioned: Patina Home & Garden | Website @velvetandlinen | Instagram Ep. 84: Susan Ferrier | Podcast Episode Ep. 338 w/ Kathy Graham | Podcast Episode Ep. 217 w/ Philip Mitchell | Podcast Episode Ep. 66 w/ Kristin Kong | Podcast Episode Ep. 158 w/ Katie Ritter | Podcast Episode Shop Now at Ballard Designs | Ballard Designs Website Tune in next week where Taryn will pick her favorite throwback in Part 3 of 3 of our decorating throwback series. Until then, happy decorating!

    1h 18m
  8. Ep. 393: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 1)

    12/24/2024

    Ep. 393: Decorating Throwback Series (Part 1)

    In Part 1 of our new annual throwback series, Caroline, Taryn, and Liz revisit a memorable conversation with Susan Ferrier from Ep. 84* of the show that has inspired Caroline's approach to interior design since. Susan Ferrier is a celebrated interior designer from Atlanta, GA. Known for her strategic use of light, texture, and contrast, Ferrier provides listeners with invaluable insights into her design process, emphasizing the thoughtful placement of furniture, the integration of scenic views, and the artful mixing of metals and textures to achieve timeless decor. The throwback episode also includes a listener's decorating dilemma** that Susan helped solve, offering advice on successful room layout and effective use of lighting in difficult spaces. *This throwback episode was originally published 4/16/2019 **Follow along with this throwback episode's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog: https://bit.ly/4gzBroH What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast 00:33 Reflecting on the Past 400 Episodes of the Show 01:29 Caroline Explains Why She Chose Ep. 84 w/ Susan Ferrier for Pt. 1 of our Throwback Series 05:10 Interview with Susan Ferrier Begins 05:59 Susan Ferrier’s Design Philosophy 14:11 Balancing Client Needs and Personal Style 31:50 Mixing Metals and Timeless Design 36:06 Revamping 80s Houses: Challenges and Solutions 36:20 Lake Martin Project: A Modern Makeover 36:33 Design Tricks: Using Paint and Drapery 39:45 Furniture and Layout: Creating Harmony 44:35 Lighting and Accessories: Enhancing Spaces 53:07 Listener’s Dilemma: Room Layout and Decor 01:07:42 Final Thoughts and Farewell Also Mentioned: Susan Ferrier Interiors | Website @susanferrier | Instagram Ep. 84: Susan Ferrier | Original Episode Blog Post Ep. 299 w/ Bobby McAlpine | Podcast Episode Ep. 161 w/ Mark Roberts | Podcast Episode Ep. 122 w/ Tom Shearer | Podcast Episode Ep. 158 w/ Katie Ritter | Podcast Episode Shop Now at Ballard Designs | Ballard Designs Website Tune in next week where Liz will pick her favorite throwback in Part 2 of our decorating throwback series.Until then, happy decorating!

    1h 12m
See All (411)

Hosts & Guests

4.4
out of 5
787 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Ballard Designs
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2025
  • Episodes
    411
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    How to Decorate

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada