Shari,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck!
I really enjoyed this episode, thanks for featuring Alison! I like how she takes neutral calm rooms that don’t feel same-old-same-old. And they seem so lived in!
Hi we have open plan new home and please help me to choose pillow colors for my black leather sofa n loveseat, our living room area rug is silver grey with dark grey shade n black shade.
Our coffee table n fireplace is shining silver glass
It’s very hard to cordinate accessaries for my home
Please help.
Aerene,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Thank you. Out of all the demonstrations for how to hang curtains with clips, yours was the best. I got it the first time after reading your article. You made it super easy.
I just LOOOOVE that you identify the paint colors used in your catalog displays. I fell in love with the SW Jade Dragon used in a bedroom display in the most recent catalog, and you posted the name and color identifier. Thank you so much. What a wonderful service you offer.
Hello, I would appreciate your help in deciding right linear pendant/chandelier size for kitchen island size 81’’ x 48’’. Could you please suggest the size we should go with?
Umesh,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Karen,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck!
Congrats Taryn! I think an episode on new builds, moving, and decorating one’s own home would be great! She’s living the dream of doing a custom build.
I’m in love with the wall decor in the third picture! The wooden one with the white rectangle and circle. Is that from Ballard? Is there a way I can find it? I don’t see it in the website. I have been searching for the perfect piece for a spot in my living room and that is perfect!!
Sandra,
So glad you like this piece. Unfortunately we do not carry this design anymore. We have a few things that are similar if you’d like to browse our wall decor options.
Thanks for reading our article!
Help!! My dilemma is how to use a wall in my large rectangular den with a large brick fireplace to display a host of people pictures and a second wall for awards and plaques.
Sena
Romesena,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Loved this episode! I visited London in 2011 and was smitten with all things Cath Kidston so was particularly excited to hear ya’ll speak with her. I bought her book immediately after listening and just finished it. The pictures are amazing- how incredible to get such insight into her home. Her ability to make each room so inviting and willingness to share her mistakes make me admire her even more.
Carolyn,
Thank you so much for this comment. So happy to hear you enjoyed this episode and love Cath’s work! She was a fantastic guest, and I totally agree that the insight and candidness of her book was so compelling and instructive. I loved it too!
Thanks for listening.
I have a wall with wooden sheets panels on it. The wall extends from ground floor till the third floor of
my house. That’s the wall that everyone who enters my house will see first thing. I need help in how can I decorate that wall. Please guide.
Hi Arti,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Hi, on page 2 of the Holiday catalog (Nov 2020) there is a deep blue wall behind the xmas display. I’ve checked the paint colors for Holiday, Fall, and winter but I cannot find the name of the color. Please help.
I am hoping to find the round, wood and metal coffee table and matching stackable end tables that are in the article “The Truth about Coffee Tables and Why You Need One”. Do you know if they are available to be purchased? Any help would be welcome.
Thanks,
Linda Logsdon
Love the podcast! It is great to learn about so many designers and design influencers. My Amazon book list just keeps growing! Ha! Ha! I thought the Cath Kidston podcast was an an especially good episode. How thoughtful of her to take the time to do a floorplan for the decorating delimma!
Shauna,
Thank you for this feedback. So glad you enjoyed the episode. Cath was a great guest with such a unique point of view.
Happy Decorating,
Caroline
Hi Mandi,
Could you describe what’s in the room so I can get a better idea of what image you’re talking about? Since we send out different versions of our catalog I don’t know which image you are seeing on page 73.
Thanks!
Abbey
Our home is traditional/victorian which includes deep walnut wood trim throughout. I want to create a warm cozy environment. How do I use furniture to tone down the boldness of the wood throughout? The bigger question is should I do whitewash wood, cream, gray, or walnut for tables, etc?
Hi Kimberly,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Hi ladies,
I love listening to your weekly podcast and have learned so much from them. My comment is regarding the new introduction. For my own personal opinion I prefer the old way. For me it is much more personal and authentic. Just thought I would share my thoughts, ( don’t change what already works)
Best regards ladies and stay well!
🥰🥰🥰
Thank you for the great different suggestions on the listener’s Decorating Dilemma. An L-shaped room is difficult to figure out! I really enjoyed how each person contributed a different layout using the owners items, kept function in mind, and augmented it to give it more polish.
Thank you for confirming the use of Glycerin. I remember using glycerin to keep Holly fresh looking for crafts. I just wasn’t sure if it could be used for other cuttings.
I have a long large wall in my formal living room and I have two large canvas hanging far apart to try and add some interest to this wall. After reading this article it seems that I have a lot of work to do to correct the aesthetics of this room. Please help! Thank you!
Hi Dana,
It’s hard to give suggestions without seeing images of your room. Simply upload images of your room and your question here and our team of free interior designers would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma.
Abbey
When hanging three 20×24 frames symmetrically over a king size bed, should the actual artwork be similar in scale? I’m considering oysters. Options include 1, 2, 3 and a cluster of oysters each on 16×20 paper. Putting different pieces of artwork together always makes me nervous.
Kimberly,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
I really liked this episode– Stephani was a great guest with great tips! I chuckled when she talked about spouses with different design styles. Very relatable. Her and Toledo Geller have probably been my favorite designers in terms of their portfolios.
I was disappointed there was no St. Nicholas this year. I bought three of last years and gave them to my daughters who started having their own children. Santa and the reindeer last year was the perfect one. My sister bought the one for her and me with Santa and the red cardinal (2016). My dad passed away in September that year and now every year when I hang it up for Christmas, I feel he is with me. I am desperately looking for the St Nicholas with the white dog (looks like a bichon) probably 2014 or 2015. I wanted to buy it for my sister because it looks just like her dog Sammy but was too late that year. My sister turned 60 this year and I thought it would be the perfect gift, especially since Sammy is getting up in age. If you know where I could buy one, I appreciate your help, they are real keepers.
Debbie Egan
Milford, MA
Hi Debbie,
Thank you for sharing your story. We are so touched to hear the art reminds you of your father. Unfortunately, we no longer make that version so we are unable to recommend a place to purchase it.
I hope you had a great holiday season,
Abbey
Hi,
I have a huge wall above the staircase that i am trying to add family photos to. The wall is approximately 20’h x10′ w. When i look at it, its seems overwhelming, but i know i want to hang all my pictures of my family- past and present here as a reminder of all the times we were together
No 2020 Santa print this year? 😢😭A great idea would be to roll out the entire collection again and let people fill in the gaps. I do not have the all white one, but would love to buy one.
This was super helpful and fun to read. Your photos and the article suggestions go great together. I am so happy I found your website and look forward to diving deeper into it for help and products. Thank you, 🙂
Thank you for all of this helpful information. I’m wondering what the paint color is on the first page of the “Warm Up For the Holiday” insert. It is inserted between pages 42 and 43 of the November 2020 catalog. It is featured on a wall with a corner curio cabinet, and appears to be a deep blue. Thank you again for your help.
What a wonderful episode! Markham was so down to earth and informative. Definitely a favorite! I’ll be checking out his book and adding it to my Christmas list.
Natalie,
So glad you enjoyed it. He is incredibly talented, and down-to-earth just like you said. Thanks for listening and taking the time to write us a comment 🙂
Happy decorating!
I have a room. Size is 20ft wide and 14 ft deep. I bout a couch that the length is 101” and 45” deep and a love seat that is 72” length and 45” deep. Also a buffet 65”
Long and 20” I’m depth. And ATV stand that is 65” long and 25” deep. I want to put a recliner in. It that to much?
Joan,
You should be able to use scotch guard, but maybe try to test a small, inconspicuous patch just to check that it won’t alter the look of the linen. Good luck!
Caroline
Thank you so much for saying what I knew. No grey wood flooring, always natural wood. The other touchpoint was the white bathroom, tiles, floors you can add color on the curtains, towels, and rugs.
I have a bare wall that’s 5’3″ (64 inches long) between two light switches by a 8 ft. ceiling in my apartment. It faces the living room and dining area so it’s very visible. And I can’t put a credenza along the wall because it’s the main walkway.
I have a vertical piece that’s abstract wall art (24.5″x31.5″) and a horizontal piece that’s sports-themed & black and white (21.5″x17.5″). I have a 6″ gap between the two photos and about 5.5 inches on either side of the photos to the light switches.
I have them at eye level and I think it looks great. The abstract piece is to the left and horizontal to the right. I just don’t know if I should swap out the horizontal piece for a vertical one given how much space I have. Any suggestions?
Hi Josh,
It’s hard to give suggestions without seeing images of your room. Simply upload images of your room and your question here and our team of free interior designers would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma.
Abbey
This was one of my favorite episodes! I love when it’s not just an interior designer but some other profession or format. Makes the whole thing feel very fresh! I’d love if you invited her back or did another realtor because buying/selling/staging is very relatable! I’d also like to see one just on DIY projects–what you can do yourself, what you should buy/hire out, etc.
I am building a small guest house (800 sf) and the living room/kitchen are open and a combined space. I am using a dark gray cabinet in the kitchen with a creamy, light granite.
In the living room I am having a cabinet wall unit/book shelves built around the TV. I was going to make them white but now am wondering if I should match the kitchen cabinets. Does it matter to have two colors so close to each other?
Hi there!
Would you mind sharing on where I could get the exact gold curtains (under the ring clips) in this article please? Thank you.. And thank you for all the wonderful and helpful posts!
Hello, I’ve ordered the METAL BRONZE .75IN DIAM S10 RINGS
Item#: DH076 BRZ SML and french return rod. The rings haven’t arrived yet, but in the meantime I’d like to order custom curtains. Can you tell me how much length these specific ring clips should add to the panel? Thanks!
I would like to put wreaths on our front windows. (The front door is rather recessed and not as visible.) the windows have a small arch at the top. Window height is 10’2”. Width of the glass is 46”, width including casement is 52”. What size wreaths would be best?
Oh no, Carrie! We will take another listen. We thought it was very Masterpiece Theater! We appreciate your feedback though and will take another listen 🙂
Caroline
What is the wall color on page 62 & 63 of the October 2020 catalog. Also when you are giving decorating tips why not just list the wall color along with the decorating tip.
Hi.
Iv a dilemma which I cannot find the answer to online. I’m trying to decorate my hall.
It is both long and dark and to make matters worse; it runs across the front door. ( 90 degree angle.).
So it’s about 10ft to the left of the door with two bedroom doors off it;
and 10 ft to the right of the door, with two more bedrooms and a bathroom off it. The stairs are directly opposite the front door.
So to put it bluntly. There’s a lot of doors, not a lot of wall space and no “end wall” which I could focus on to decorate.
I am a minimalist, but would still like to
Decorate it as a cohesive design.
When ever I look on line all I find is
Long dark hallways. But they always have a focus wall. To put a mirror or a console table/lamp etc.
As my hall runs at right angles and the first thing you see is the stairs. I am at my wits-end.
Please help.
Many thanks.
Sonia.
Hi Sonia,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Hi Caroline,
You’ve done a great job answering all of the other paint questions – hoping you can answer mine as well! :). Page 23 – the deep blue walls . What color is that? In my catalog it’s the color on the calls of the foyer / mud room with the white Crawford Shiplap Entry Cabinet and the indigo fern leaf art.
Thanks for your help!
I love the look of baby grand pianos, but experts say the sound produced by a baby grand is far inferior to a good upright. Of course a regular grand is better still, if you have the room and money. See The Piano Book by Larry Fine, forward by concert pianist Kieth Jarrett. By the way, I love your podcast and recommend it to all my friends. So good!! And I love the three of you. You three have made southern style even more accessible and inclusive than great southern literature, gardens, architecture, design, etc. had before you started the podcast. Thank you for being so inclusive.
I absolutely love ROOM #10!!
I plan to use it as my inspiration for a new coop I am buying in NYC.
Please tell me the name and color of the paint you used.
Hi – can you tell me please about the pattern to the far right on #6 patterns to love, paisley in blues? I am trying to coordinate a chair fabric and an area rug. This article is very helpful in mixing patterns to thank you for the tips.
Best, Lyn
Hi Lynn,
Unfortunately, we don’t sell that fabric anymore, but you can see all of our blue fabrics here. I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed this article. Please let us know if you have any other questions.
Caroline
Hi,
I love this website so much! I just bought a new house and want to maximize seating for our family of 6, but I don’t want to overcrowd the room. I found a couch I love, which is 155″ x 124″ in an L shape with the 155 going across the back of the room, which is 20.5 feet across. This leaves 91″ which is only 7.6 feet across to then place another 2 chairs for conversation along the other wall, plus allow for walking. It’s a great room, so the back of the 155″ side is the transition to the kitchen.
I know it’s a little hard to picture, but would you think the 155″ is an acceptable size, or will it be too large for that space, with wanting another chair on the side?
Couch:https://www.crateandbarrel.com/sectional-planner?collectionCode=13
Thanks for your help!
Kim
Kim
Hi Kim,
Thank you for your question. Test it out using our Room Planner tool where you can really test out the sizing. Typically you want at least 24″ to walk around the chair.
Good luck!
Caroline
Love and learn so much from your podcast! Have been working my way back through those I’ve missed over the summer and listened to your interview with Courtney McLeod yesterday (episode 151). Love her. Love her confidence! Anyway, a chair she picked up at a trade flea market was mentioned. If I understood correctly, the cushion was painted. Couldn’t find a picture. Do you have one to share? I need the inspiration! Thanks !
I hope you can help me. If I have a dining room 11′ x 12′ 10” what shape and size table would work best and give enough room for chairs and walk around?
Connie,
Based on the measurements, your room is basically square. For square dining rooms, we usually recommend round dining tables. I’d suggest using our Room Planner Tool to test out what size round dining table you’ll need in your space.
Good luck!
Caroline
I have a 19 foot long wall. I want to hang 3 24×36 canvas nature prints. How far apart should they be and should I hang something else on the sides? I originally hung 4 24x 36 about 20 inches apart but it looked like a museum. Please advise if possible. Thank you.
Vanessa,
It’s hard to make a suggestion without seeing a photo, but typically prints should not be hung more than 6” apart. Usually 3-4” looks best. Consider hanging the 4 prints together two on top of two instead of all side by side.
Hope that helps!
Thanks for putting all these pointers in one place. Very useful! Please note, however, that each dining space should be 24 inches, as opposed to having 24 inches between spaces.
Confused and upset. After reading all the reviews of how Versatile the Ballard Almafi collection Is for everyone that bought it on sale and how the cushions unzip so well angers me. I purchased over 15 pieces of it spent over $10,000 and cushions deteriorate zippers break paint falls off exposing bare aluminum. I spoke with several people at the company to no avail stock is beautiful and I would like to continue using it matter fact I just bought new cushions because they fit the investment I already made but I would like to see some customer service
I need your help please , I bought livingroom furniture , french design with a lot of wood , hands and head, on the side of it and the back the fabric is stripe,but the cushions and pillows have print , i want to change the cushions and pillows to a solid color fabric, will it be ok? please help me. thank you Solange
Hi Solange,
I don’t think you can go wrong with changing your pillows and cushions to a solid color. We offer plenty of solid fabrics you could recover it with.
Happy Decorating,
Abbey
I’ve been looking for a ‘chevron’ style print on upholstery for my sofa for about 8 years ! Seems it’s our of fashion- but your title image (as in how I got to this article) shoes a greyish one (with spilt red liquid from a mug…?).. where where where can I find it, performance or not…?! Feel free to email if preferred . Thank you!!
Have 4 24×30 framed Audubon bird pictures. I want to hang them side by side on wall over 2 recliner chairs and side table between them. These chairs face a fireplace with TV on mantle. My wall is 11 ft tall and 18 ft wide. What should spacing be??
Sue,
So glad you like this room. Kathleen and Robin did a great job pulling it all together. The wall art piece you mentioned is an Hermes scarf that Kathleen bought in Europe and had framed.
Good luck with your move!
Caroline
Hi Joanne,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Hi! Can you please tell me the name of the paint color on the walls of page 6? Also, the beams look gray-blue. Is there a paint color for them as well? I love the warm browns in the rug & furniture!
Suzanne,
What is the image on page 6? All of the paint colors are listed above, but some of them may look slightly different depending on lighting.
Caroline
I have purchased the Chilton corner cabinet in grey and am hoping to find paint that matches the furniture. Any idea what the grey color and brand might be?
Ashley,
We don’t have paint color matches for our furniture pieces. I’d suggest taking the bottom shelf out of the cabinet and having it paint matched at a local hardware store.
Good luck!
Caroline
Thank you so much for the help on mixing patterns but I have a question- The pattern on the second swatch with the Arryanna Spa fabric- what is it called ?? I can’t locate it anywhere except the fabric and I am looking for curtains already made ( i am no seamstress!) thank you in advance
Ashley,
I’m happy to help. Unfortunately the green citron geometric fabric has been discontinued. But if you’re looking for readymade drapery panels that would coordinate with Arryanna Spa, try our Buffalo Check panels in Spa, Bingham Panels in Mineral, or Le Lattis in Camel.
Let me know if you have more questions,
Caroline
The porch swing looks great with those chairs. Did you paint the porch swing darker? If so what was the process and what type of paint and/or urethane did you use?
Robert,
Yes, the Southern Living team painted to porch swing green for their space. Unfortunately, we don’t have any information about the process. Sorry we couldn’t be of more help.
Caroline
Hi How would you decorate around red sofas ,i have milk white walls but would like to change cushions, and rug, and bring soft pastel colours in, i have pine units and i am thinking of painting them not shore what colour
Hi Susan,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I painted my living room, kitchen and hall in Behr Glass of Milk. It is a beautiful creamy white, with just a little yellow undertone- like french vanilla ice cream! Love it!
I am a big fan of Ballard Designs and have purchased many items from them. They have decorated my homes from Honolulu to Fort Lauderdale. May I say that Meg Braff is my all time favorite designer and her interiors are just fantastic. I have also followed her in many magazines including Southern Living and Coastal Living. What a wonderful designer!
I Love all of your designs. I have a large living room and you can see the dining and eat in kitchen. My sofa is a gold tweed and I have two chairs in big print with blue, brick red, apple green and gold that I love. However most of my furniture is all mahogony. Makes the room dark. I want it soft and comfortable, but can’t seem to get there. room 20×16
suggestions?
Arlene,
I have a few suggestions to help brighten up your space and make it comfier. Try adding in a mirror, like this one. Not only will it help make the space feel bigger but it will reflect light and create a brighter atmosphere. I also suggest adding in neutral textiles like linen pillows and throws to soften up the space. Adding in some drapes like these linen sheer panels will also help create a soft and airy look.
Happy Decorating,
Abbey
I wish there were more ideas for the middleclass income people who like to decorate. My living room has a large , 8′ window, and total rock wall fireplace, a front door. that doesn’t leave much when the TV takes center stage and the view is wonderful. :/. A diagram please? thanks
Hi. Can I ask what color hardware you use for the white curtains in that bedroom? I have Medium brown wood floors and bedroom furniture is also dark brown. So want to get white curtains (but don’t know what metal to get) and also a rug to soften the bedroom. So wondered what type of metal you used?
Would you tell me the name of the business who built the stone potting sink/dog wash station 😉 and also the brand of the wicker porch furniture? Beautiful!
Jd,
The wicker furniture is Ballard, but we no longer carry that collection. The stone sink was built by European Stone Concepts.
Happy Decorating,
Abbey
I would like to know how to send pictures of what I am wanting to do. Getting a new couch covered in a light cream. I want a bold material for two pillows and an ottoman. The wall color very close to fabric for couch. They wondering about a big room. I am terrible about mixing colors and prints. But first need to know how to get swatch pictures to your company.
Thanks in advance.
Stacy
Hi Stacy,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I found this article to be wonderful. However, I was a bit disappointed with the lack of information regarding leather. Is there any additional information that you can provide regarding purchasing leather sofas?
Up until episode 150, I could listen to the podcast from your website by scrolling down under the picture of the guest & clicking on the button next to the pink chair. As of episode 150, the pink chair & listen button are gone.
Is there something I am missing?
I really enjoy your podcasts and hope I can still listen in via your website (on my laptop).
Thanks,
Susan
Susan,
I am so sorry! I just added the podcast player into the episode. It completely slipped my mind when I was prepping the episode, but it’s in there now.
Thank you for listening and letting me know that it wasn’t in there!
Caroline
Loved your article, it was super informative and very well written.
I love the first white bookcase with the hexagon shelves! Where can I find that? Thank you!
I have an 18 foot wall with a 75 in TV in the middle of it. I have 2 groupings of pictures I would like to hang on each side. What is the rule for hanging pictures on the wall. Should I hang pictures on the sides of the TV or further away so it looks like 3 separates areas?
Hi Cindy,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Hi there-
I have two walls seven foot in length with an entry way to a bedroom in between them. The ceiling is 10 feet. I have purchased a 5 panel art piece for one wall measuring 50″ w x 24″tall. Each panel is 10″ in width and progresses from 12″ tall to 24″ tall and then back down to 12″. I am thinking about another piece for the other wall that measures 30″ x 30″ OR 46″ x 46″. Do the pieces of art need to be closer in size? And do they need to be similar in medium? As it is, the 5 panel art piece is a colorful farmhouse mountain scene and the other piece I am considering is a square made of pine wood with a horse painted onto it. I am working on a farmhouse theme. Thus far I am cautiously optimistic in my ability to pull this off. 🙂 Thoughts?
Hi Michael,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Thanks for the help. I have a cherry bedroom set but want to upgrade my bed to a king. I kinda dont want to do another cherry bed. Right now its all too matchy. What color woods would go and what should I stay away from.
We just recently painted our family room and hallway leading to the front door, a light green. This color has opened the rooms up so much. Problem now is we need to change our rugs which were a medium brownish color. My husband wants a darker shade of green and I would like to go in a beige Family. Can you help us?
Hi Sandi,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Thank you for telling me that the furniture arrangement plays a huge role when it comes to my patio decoration. I dropped by at my friend’s house the other day for a tea party and realize that it might be a good idea to decorate my patio like hers. I’ll try to look for some Minka aire fans that I can use and start from there.
Awesome article, Caroline! The room designs are incredibly well done–ten times better than what I’ve seen so far in my search for a solution to this design problem. More importantly, the tips are practical, so I feel confident I can make it work. Thank you!!
Hi. Always LOVE your podcast. During the decorating dilemma you (I think it was Caroline) suggested the person add hoods to the drapery so it could be used with rings. How do you do that? Wouldn’t it rip the fabric? I am helping my friend select curtains and we want a pair of yours but it has the tabs on the back rather than hooks and so we thought we couldn’t use them?? Please help.
Hi,
Thank you so much for listening and for taking the time to comment. Here is a post that shows the back of a curtain panel with drapery pins/hooks. You will slide the drapery hook through the back of the panel. If you’re using it on a panel with existing tabs, I would probably use the drapery hooks between the tabs instead of on the tabs. Most curtain panels are reinforced enough at that top seam to wear it should be fine. Sheers might be tricky, but they’re also super light so maybe it wouldn’t be a problem.
I hope that answers your question.
Best of luck!
Caroline
Yes, you should be able to use drapery hooks instead of tabs! It depends on the fabric. If it’s a very gauzy, delicate fabric, it could be an issue. If it’s a heavier, lined fabric, it should be fine. If you want to be extra careful, you could order some hook tape and sew it onto the back of the panel to give it extra structure.
Good luck. So glad you’re enjoying the show.
Caroline
I agree with all the other comments, beautiful porch designs. I have one question though, the area on my porch that I am decorating is 6×6, would a rug that is 5×7 be sufficient to cover the area? By the way your outdoor rugs are beautiful as I am in the market for an outdoor rug.
Thanks,
Jennifer,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Caroline, does Ballard have any side chairs that we can use for the dining table for the two ends when we need, and yet keep on an everyday basis in our great room. We are moving to a smaller home that is really open and we need to be creative.
Christine,
Absolutely! You want something a bit heavier and more substantial, but that’s still light and easy to move. Here are a few suggestions: Marlene Dining Chair, Patricia Chair, Haynes Chair, or the Andorra Chair.
Good luck! Congrats on your new home.
I have a large print of a photo I took while in Italy. It hangs above our king bed, and I feel like it’s a bit small. I would love to find a pair of prints – maybe abstract or impressionistic – to flank the photograph.
I have a sunroom that’s in need of a makeover. The size of the room is 24′ X16′. It serves as a TV room and eating area. It is windowed on 3 sides and a stone grey granite wall on the 24′ length wall. 2 door openings opposite each other lead outside and into main house area.
I have one 3 seat couch and loveseat both in dark chocolate leather. I’m wondering if there is anything I can do to cover these couches or how I can brighten them up? The dining table is round with chairs that have ivory fabric covers. I’d like some suggestions on how to arrange the furniture and add accents (i.e., rugs, pillows, coffee table, plants). Your advice is most welcomed! Thanks.
Hi Mary,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Dear decorator, I need your advice on how I can decorate my longggggg open living room. I have this beautiful marbled top bar with 2 stool that i would like to maybe put it in there somewhere. I would like a tv but i have windows covering on all walls except of course in fron of the entres door. I would probably put a big mirror there with thise nice side tables?? Help
Thank u so much
Hi Nora,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I’m really surprised that your room planner doesn’t have actual Ballard furniture in the library. We should be able to choose the furniture in the planner from the furniture that is for sale in the catalog, not just generic furniture in generic sizes. It is possible to alter the sizes of the generic furniture to match actual Ballard items, but it is an unnecessary headache. An intern could easily input all of the Ballard furniture pieces into the library.
Hi
I have dark brown sofas, black and white geometric rug and cushions. I have just bought blue and white floral material to make a large table/footstool to add some colour. Do you think the patterned footstool will look ok on the geometric rug? And add blue plain cushions to the sofa. I’d love your opinion please
Thanks
Elizabeth,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I need help deciding what color Vinyl Plank flooring I should put down in my family room. We have honey oak wanescoating paneling that goes half way up our walls. I would love to put a gray flooring down, but don’t want to make the wrong decision. Any help would be appreciated.
Lori,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I am trying to revamp my 3 bedroom, 3 bath house. I am changing carpets, tile, kitchen cabinets, bedroom furniture, bathrooms and paint etc… I love warm colors but i’m stomped on what colors i should paint the living room and bedrooms. I wish I could afford an interior designers…Can someone please help me?
Hi Cleopatra,
We actually have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Danylle,
Karen got hers from an Etsy shop called Gardenerscottage451. Here is a link to something very similar to what she got. Hers is only a single ball.
Paula,
Just choose a size that isn’t larger than the doors, probably 2-3 inches of space on each side of the wreath to the end of the door.
Happy Decorating
I typically listen to your podcast on Ballard’s How to Decorate website, rather than via a podcast service. However, for some reason, episode 143 with Tara Shaw has no audio included on Ballard’s show notes’ website. The audio is available on Stitcher, so I can still listen to the podcast. But I thought you should know about the website glitch. Thank you, stay safe, and have a great day!
How do I become a member and also I have a quick question.i just bought a house it has dark brown paneling my wife wants to make it that antique white, what would I have to do
I have kilm beige walls, grey couch, tan recliner and off-white chair. Area Rug with grey, tan and off white on medium brown wood floors. I also have a fireplace with a white surround. My question: I am going to build built in book shelves on either side of the fireplace. What color should I do the bookshelves? Should I leave fireplace white? Thanks
Kathy,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
If I have a long wall about 153 inches long what size canvas will fit. across from that wall I have a canvas the length of my couch . That picture is squire but length is length of couch. will a regular square frame work on the wall that is 153 inches. thank you
Typically, we recommend looking for something that’s about 50-75% of the space. It’s hard to get a feel for your question without seeing it. Here are two posts that might help answer your question:
I’ve read anywhere from 10″ to 13″ between top of dining chair and table. I have a bench that is 20″ so if purchase a table that is 30″ will that be too tight (10 ” between top of bench and table top)? I can’t decide if I want to pair it with a bistro table or a rectaugular table. The area is small and my current 42″ round table is a bit too large.
Hey, I need some advice. I have gunstock kitchen cabinets and living room floor. We want to put up wood walls in kitchen and living room (open floor plan). We live in a small cabin so we don’t want it to look smaller, any advice on what color wood walls we would greatly appreciate it ?
Hi Shena,
It’s hard to suggest a color without seeing pictures of your space. Our team of interior designers would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I just want you all to know that I love your podcast! This podcast has been the highlight of my day for several months, I have been playing catch up. I couldn’t help but notice that some people leave negative comments after the episodes and honestly it just upsets me! I know everyone has their opinion, but I just wanted you ladies to know the reason I listen is because you all are so real and it’s like I’m hanging with a group of my best girlfriends. I just wanted to thank you all for such a fun and inspiring podcast. You have no idea how it’s gotten me through the last couple months of the pandemic. Living in Los Angeles, I crave the southern hospitality that you all spill out in every episode, it’s what keeps me coming back for more. And never stop the trials and triumphs! Love you girls!
Brittany,
Thank you so much for this comment. It 100% made my Friday. We are so happy to hear you enjoy listening. We’ll keep chugging along bringing you new design inspiration each week. I’m going to have to share your comment with Karen and Taryn.
Happy decorating!
Caroline
I have light grey/sage walls and a gray loveseat is coming in two days. My floors look like tile that is light sage with grey. I purchased grey/white plaid curtains and would like to purchase an area rug to pop some color, but I really need help picking a rug in the right color and pattern so that I don’t have a major pattern overload. My living room isn’t very big. Help, please. Thank you!!!
Hi Cindy,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I LOVE listening to your podcast on “how to decorate” SO much! I really enjoyed this last episode from Clare on organizing… my husband and I are total opposites when it comes to keeping things in their proper home, he is not tidy in the slightest. We have been married for 34 years and he just doesn’t get it! Ugh! It has been a constant frustration for me and he just turns a deaf ear to my desires for a more organized home. I think by listening today, I can see that if I can simplify more and keep the clutter down we won’t have so much stuff to shuffle about. Thank you for all the suggestions on how to manage the stress of having too much stuff!
Hi, hope to get some ideas. I have a wood bookshelf (starmore) I bought for a formal living room. I was going to put it on a wall with accent chairs in front of it with a small ottoman. The room has a bay window with a built in bench. What colors can I do?
Can I get away with black white and yellows. I love yellows and blue.
It’s the first room you see when you enter my house, it is in the front so it’s vert bright, which I like. Please help
Hi Renata,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I love this podcast! Thank you for continually recording. This podcast is saving my life during quarantine. I love listening to you girls and your wonderful guests. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Wow! Tammy’s work is absolutely breathtaking! I just browsed through her portfolio on her website and each room is stunning. Each home she designs is unique, exuding the client’s personality and interests. She is a master at traditional and contemporary – casual and formal. I’ve just added a new designer to my favorite designers list.
This was very informative. I have a Ballard chandelier (I think) that was in our condo when we bought it. The chandelier has candle sleeves that look like, as you described it, “drippy wax.” They can easily be switched but I don’t see alternatives on the Ballard website. Do you sell them?
I loved this podcast. I am also an INFJ and so identify. I am also someone who hates the sound of swallowing next to them and persistent reparative sounds too. Sound can also be clutter and any type of clutter drives me crazy. Serenity, beauty and calm should be fundamental human rights !
I love your podcast and so appreciate how natural you are and how your individual characters come through. I do get that you are professionals and do this podcast for Ballard. All in all I have the impression that Ballard, as a company is people orientated and I love that.
I live in Austria and was wondering if your services extend as far as Europe ?
You guys are great and please keep the conversation going. There is nothing frivolous about crating beauty, balance and harmony even if it is just at home .
Hugs
Eva
Jackie,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Alissa,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Hi Frank,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I live in a high-rise in my living room and dining room is together.
I am looking for a sofa between 78 and 80 inches wide. I would like three cushions (no T-cushions anywhere). I suffer from back issues so I need the sofa to be 37-38 inches high, and more on the deep side (not too deep). I would like thin track arms,
on 4 or 5” visible tapered legs. This is my wish list. I know you have to sit on the sofa because they all feel differently.
I’m not sure if I’m going to put the sofa with a matching wide chair and a wing back chair with different fabric in the corner or a sofa with two different chairs facing the sofa.
Hi Christine,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I’m decorating a small guest bedroom. I’ve arranged the bed coming out from angled walls. How should I arrange 2 pictures of exactly the same size on the angled walls above the bed? Staggered? Same height? Also, how high above the bed?
Hi Jessica,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I just purchased a home and I need help. Door is centered to the house but entering you find yourself in the living room and facing the fireplace with the stairs to its right going to the second floor.To the right is the “dining room” and to the left is a wall to a bedroom. My husband would like to keep the room But I am not sure how decorate or even where to place a tv.
Hi Timea,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Hi Caroline, Could you tell me what the green color wall paint is (in the second photo and same in the last photo with the pumpkin colored chairs)? Thanks.
I don’t see any images with this article, but there are blank boxes with a question mark in them indicating an image. How do I see the images? This is a GREAT article on using the color wheel. Thanks for any help!
Hi Amanda,
You should talk to your seamstress or dry cleaner, but there are 36” in a yard, so at least 3 yards per panel, but I would give yourself and extra yard just in case.
Hope that helps
Abbey
This was an awesome podcast, but seemed way to short. I could have listened for another hour. You need to have these amazing ladies back again. They had some fantastic tips and were hilarious.
Cate and Lathem were a delight to listen to. What great senses of humor and lots of great tips and advice. I loved hearing how these young designers are respecting the history and beauty of antiques and finding fresh ways to incorporate them into modern designs. Thank you for bringing such interesting, fun and talented guests to podcast.
Nancy,
I’m so glad you enjoyed this episode! Cate and Lathem are fantastic — so talented and down to earth. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Caroline
Im thinking about having a wood counter on my island and marble on the rest of the countertops. Would I need to match my kitchen table with the color of the wood island?
Hi Jane,
There are so many factors that could play into this. How close are the pieces to each other? Are they similar shapes? Overall, we would say no, they don’t need to match.
Hope that helps!
Abbey
Hi Amber,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I just bought a 10×14 area rug for the dining room in my new home. I want to get the memory foam under rug cushion that you have spoken about on the podcast many times. I searched the website where I thought you ladies said it was from but could not find it. I also searched your podcasts but could not find the ones where it was mentioned. Can you help me find it? Thank you.
Caroline. I need advice on how to incorporate two reclining chairs in my living room. I currently have a 2 piece sectional and one recliner and it will be too crowded when I purchase another recliner. Should I utilize just one half of the sectional or purchase a new sofa instead?
Thanks. Lois
Hi Lois,
It’s hard to give give you good advice without the measurements of the room. We do have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Hi ladies-
Love the podcast. I wanted to ask a question and also answer a question
My husband has a study with hardwoods. I want to put a rug in his study but he likes to roll back in his office chair. What is the best rug for rolling office chairs. He wants a plastic mat so I need help!
As far as the juju hat, I have a tip for you. We lived in Africa and my juju hat came from the juju market as well as many other treasures. We always put these items in the freezer for a few days and that seemed to take care of the bug problem.
Keep us the good work!
Juli
Thank you for that great tip. I will pass it along to Taryn and Karen. They’re the juju lovers!
That is a tricky question about the rug. I’ll ask our team about it, but I bet a sisal or seagrass rug would be great because they aren’t super plush. An indoor outdoor rug would likely work well too!
Can you tell me what color is on the bathroom walls on page 42 of the February 2020 catalog? I’ve searched through the blog for paint colors but don’t see this room. Thank you.
Hi I’m trying to decorate a small room that I turned into a walk in shoes closet. I would like to put a throw rug and ottoman in center. The size of room is 8ft by 12 ft. What size throw rug should I get and should it be round or square/rectangle.??
Vanessa,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
What is the name or catalog number for for the occasional chair in picture 2? Looks to be dark grey or brown velvet, armless in front of a bed in picture. Does Ballard sell that chair currently?
Thank you
I just received the February 2020 catalog and I am very interested in finding out what paint color was used on page 4 and page 10. One is a creamy white and the other is a sort of olive green. I would really appreciate it if you could tell me the color names and brand. Thank you!!
I love your podcast and your guests are lovely. I do think that your listeners are not in the same deomographic as your design guests and their clients. Most people shopping at BD (like me) are not designing a house around our original art collection and I think most of the people who are designing their homes around their original art collections are not listening to designing podcasts. I absolutely love your “triumphs and tribulations” because they make me feel like we are all in the same boat and we can meet the challenge…and succeed! I actually think most of the BD customers and podcast listeners would love to hear from design bloggers as well as your interior design guests…a kind of high/low for inspiration as well as grounding. 🙂
Thank you so much for listening and for taking the time to write a comment with your feedback. I totally understand where you’re coming from. I’m certainly not working with priceless art pieces in my own home! We definitely try to get a variety of designers who work with all different budgets, so I’ll keep this in mind when looking for new guests.
With that said, I’ve learned the most and gotten some of the best tips from designers who work on multi-million dollar projects — Bunny Williams, Tom Scheerer, Timothy Corrigan, and Madeline Stuart all have amazing insight into how to think about your home regardless of what price point you’re shopping in. Take her client with the incredible art collection. Most of us won’t be decorating with that same level of artwork, but we can still apply the principal to our houses. For me, the takeaway was that we don’t necessarily have to ‘match’ our artwork to our room. It’s ok to move things around and think more fluidly about your wall decor versus planning the art down to the perfect coordinating color palette that goes with your drapery fabric.
We have some fun things planned — both more practical tip shows and up and coming guests who I think you’ll enjoy. Stay tuned!
Caroline
Thank you for your feedback, Linda. We are working on it! Sometimes we just get so excited, we can’t contain ourselves. Tom is amazing. We loved having him.
Happy decorating, and thank you for taking the time to comment!
Brooke,
So glad to hear you’re enjoying the show so much that you’re listening to old episodes twice!! Also, you’ll be thrilled to know Carson and Thom will be back next week!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
I like having an oversized mirror over coach but can you still do that if when you sit on couch the wall you are looking at has a mounted tv. So basically the tv and mirror are across from one another?
Thank you for this informational post! I am furnishing our master bedroom and love the Claudette headboard in white and the Serpentine side tables in Swedish oak. I am a little bit stumped when shopping for dressers and chests to coordinate though. Since those pieces are going to be rather large, would they be considered the anchor pieces rather than the headboard? Should I go with dressers/chests in white/whitewashes to coordinate with the headboard, try to match the Swedish oak sidetables or go rogue with something like black? I am picturing gingham/buffalo check bedding with a coordinating floral in cranberry/cream/black. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Mandy,
I think either a white/whitewashed wood and black or something else entirely could be pretty. I’ve seen metal dressers out there. But since I’m assuming the dresser and headboard won’t be right up against each other, I think white would be fine. And black would work too.
This sounds like it’ll be such a pretty combination!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Love the podcast and I look forward to it every week. I’ve heard you say your working on using the word “like” less often . Well ladies work harder. Tarin is the worst offender .
Hi Jocelyn,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I have light blue buffalo check club chairs and a cream sofa in my hearth room. I also have a black ceramic lamp with bright pink and green small flowers and 2 cranberry glass lamps that I would like to keep. I like bright colors. How can I accent and decorate around these colors?
Hi Suzanne,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I recently re-upholstered two wingback chairs for my living room with a slightly busy navy blue pattern. I can’t decide if the chairs should have throw pillows on them or not? Would adding a pillow to each be too much with the print? Are the chairs alone enough?
Hi Dana,
It never hurts to add a throw pillow! Just make sure it compliments the piece of furniture it’s going on. We like to stick with solid colored pillows against a busy pattern.
Abbey
Thanks Patricia, Needed info on how to choose lampshades for my lamps. Thank you so very much for walking me through the process. Look forward to learning the rule of thumb on other issues. Thanks again!
I have the Paisley Ramagh Gray Pier 1 curtains in my family room which is open to my kitchen. I would like to cover my valences over the window and door in my kitchen with the Robert Allen Teague Dwell Studios gold fabric. I am not too sure if the patterns would work together, the rooms are separate but you can still see the family room from the kitchen. Do you think this would be too much?
Hi Jane,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Hello,
I painted my family room a rich red and mustard. I think the room is stunning! However, I am not sure what colors to paint the adjouning rooms…the living room and the kitchen. As I understand color cohension, I need to incorporate a balance of warm and cool colors. Please help!
Hi Rachelle,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Hi Val,
Thanks for your question. I think it’s just a matter of preference. A 48″ wreath on a 50″ window will definitely be big but it’ll look dramatic and impactful! As long as the wreath isn’t larger than the window, I think it’s just a question of personal preference. Good luck!
Caroline
Arabella,
Think of them as guidelines not rules! This is just a way to help if you’re having trouble deciding, but certainly shouldn’t limit you buying something you love. Best of luck!
Thanks for the article Caroline. I’ve been wondering how to style my upgraded living room, very useful to know about textures. I like the idea of the ottoman style coffee table. I hadn’t seen those before.
I own a 1857 Regency Cottage. I would like to put a wreath on each of two french doors/windows which are 4 feet wide . The glass area is 42 inch wide. These flank either sides of front door. What size of wreat should I use.
Hi Trella,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
In my experience gardening in the South, bulbs are planted in the fall and seeds are sown in the spring. I think you’ll find that the plants that are sprouting now will die at the first frost and will not have had time to flower and produce seeds to re-seed your cutting garden.
P.S. The G at the end of a word is silent. For instance, the word hang is not pronounced, “hanguh”. Love the show, but that drives me insane.
Hi Meribeth!
I’ll send this note about bulbs and seeds to Karen. Thanks for listening and for leaving a comment.
We always love feedback, so any insight you have to make the show better is appreciated.
Caroline
We have double front doors 8ftx30” painted medium to dark grey with a lot of glass..wood is at the bottom of door..it is sectioned off into 4 large panes..what size wreath should I use..
Sabrina,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Do you happen to know where the four feather prints were purchased? I’ve been trying to find bird art for above our couch for three years and can’t find the “one.” I LOVE the set of four feather prints and the frames they are in. Thanks!
Mary Jo
Hi I would like to hang 3 wreaths on my 36 in wide door attached by ribbon and letters monogram with the letters JOY attached to center of each what size wreaths should I get and what size monogram letters they are done in a vine monogram
I have paneling in my family room that I painted believeable buff from Sherwin Williams. My family room is small I only have a loveseat, chair, and Tv in it but it look crowded. I need some help. I saw the room on the website with the paneling that looked whitewashed, and I liked it.
Hi Linda,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Thanks so much for this. I really like the colors and styles selected. I now have a idea of how to decorate my dinning and living room with colors. Happy!!!!
Loved this podcast. Eddie was fantastic, as always. I like occasionally having guests who can discuss both design and entertaining. His advice was incredibly useful.
Could you make this part 1 of a series with Eddie! Seriously I love all of his ideas! And yes when you love to entertain with a little flair it seems nobody reciprocates! Hello – just have people over and order a pizza!
So glad you agree. Yes! Start simple and then build as you get more comfortable. Clearly Eddie is a seasoned pro! We love hearing that you enjoyed the show, so thanks for listening!
My Family room sofa has only four pillows on it. When people sit down they start looking for a place to put the pillows which usually wind up on the floor. They are not huge pillows just decorative pillows and only four. What are your suggestions? My sofa is normal size, my pillows are normal size and my friends are normal size! But I hate to see them wind up on the floor and a basket seems to suggest I didn’t mean for you to use them!
Hmm, that’s tricky. Do you have down inserts in your pillow or foam inserts? Sometimes I think the foam inserts don’t give as much when you sit against them so they feel more intrusive. Down inserts kind of mold to your body, so they’re more comfortable. That’s my first thought.
My second idea is to maybe edit down to 2 pillows on the sofa, and move the other two elsewhere in the room. Then, see whether people still move them?
BBQ dilemma keeping food hot.
Invest in a cordless serving/heating tray. Mine keeps food warm for several hours and Can hardly be seen once the serving dish is put on it.
I love the top picture with the Sunlit Stroll canvas. I have purchased the exact dining chairs shown in that picture. Would you happen to know the color of the paint in that dining room? I’m wanting to mimic almost everything in that dining room.
Quita
I just got the Ballard catalog (Oct’19) today and enjoyed drooling over the pages. What paint color is used on the wall with the Sunlit Stroll artwork in the “No. 7 Art” section?
Since no word for it currently exists, i have taken it upon myself to create a name for three or more pillows on a bed…..that would be a “plethora of pillows”! Thank you very much….
So glad to see another great seasonal post. I love the rug you used in both photo #1 and photo #6. Can you tell me the name of it? Thanks so much, and keep those decorating articles coming. As much as I enjoy the podcasts, I’m much more of a visual learner, so for me, the articles with photos are very helpful.
Unfortunately we no longer sell that rug but here are some similar options: Mathison Rug, Asher Rug, Decarlo Rug. So glad you are enjoying the posts. Thanks for reading!
Chris,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Angela,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Hi Tej,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
The cheapest answer is to cut off the drywall on the wall side of the two small arches to give a wider doorway. Remove the desks and dog bowls etc from that pathway. They make you veer to the left .
Thank you for this article as it really has very valid points especially for down sizing couples who haven’t purchased new furniture and rugs in quite some time. It is so important to leave enough space in between swivel chairs!!! So many people make this mistake when choosing swivels for their gathering rooms.
I have a chest of which the bottom part is mirrored, but also has some wood detailing in it. So it is not a complete mirror. Currently I have a picture hanging above it, but am wondering if I can hang a mirror above it instead? What would your advice be about that?
Hi Sandy,
They can definitely go together, I would just try to bring in lots of different types of textures in your accessories and maybe your lighting? So add a lamp with a color or interesting texture (not shiny/reflective) then something wooden as an accessory. Just try to bring in some contrast to help break it up. But what a great question!
thank you very much for this post 🙂 does anyone know where I can buy frames at a very affordable price? Need a lot of white frames and black frames of different sizes for my interior.
Hello, I have a 24″ overhang on my marble island and my cabinetmaker has added two legs and a wooden table skirt to wrap around the overhang for that custom look. Do I take that into account when measuring for counter stools? From the floor to the bottom of the skirt is 31″, but to the counter is 36″. What do I do here? Thanks for your help!
Hi Holli,
This is a tricky one. I would definitely try counter first because it’ll be the most appropriate for your overall island height. You may run into an issue with your knees bumping into the apron. Try stacking some books onto a chair to the appropriate height and test it against your island!
Valerie,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
I’m catching up on episodes in the archives and loved this one! Caroline, can you tell me where you got the frames for your nursery prints? The setup is so adorable and I’d love to do something similar!
On page 10 of the September catalog is a pretty cabinet called the Salerno Console. I would love to know what white color the cabinet is painted… or one that is comparable!
Carie,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Could you please tell me the paint color used in the June catalog on pages 12 and 13? I remodeling my office and this layout and color scheme is serving as my inspiration. I can’t wait to get the Asher Rug! I’m ordering a sample just to make certain of the tones.
Rachel,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
These are all inspiring options. I’m drawing something from each and every one. Where, pray tell, might I find that wonderful gated base floor lamp in tip no. 4? Thanks.
Congratulations! So pleased for you all and my thanks for so many informative, fun podcasts- remember hearing the first one ! Thank you and here is to many more!
I’m glad I ran into this info when I did. We will be buying a few new upholstered pieces in the near future which will hopefully last for the duration. I’ll definitely refer to Ballard Designs again. Thank you!
Abby,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck!
There are not any links provided. I’ve tried it in safari and Chrome. This is what I get:
Below you’ll find printable place cards, checklists, and other goodies for your home. Simply print at home in your printer, and you’re ready to go!
Hi, just thought you would like know I have a dog the same color and he is a mini golden doodle and I also have the same last name ! I will share mt photos and my Ballad Bedroom . Please advise how I do this , thanks
Caroline McDonald, thank you for input. Deciding on the color of my 6” sofa legs. When I said the wood for the legs was a “medium brown”, I should have mentioned it has a little red in it. I have parquet floors (will be purchasing an area rug) and it does pick up one of the wood colors in the parquet . My sales lady still believes I should use the espresso colored legs for a contemporary look, just seems so cold next to my wood floors. Now that you know it’s not just a medium brown color, does this change your mind?
It’s hard to say without seeing photos of your space and the wood swatch itself, but I don’t think there’s really a right or wrong answer. You might also have this sofa for longer than you live in your house. Perhaps you move it to another room or move houses. I wouldn’t worry too much about the chair leg. Pick whichever one you like best!
Hi
I listened to this episode the other day and loved it! Phil was very informative about furniture. Please bring him back for more lessons on furniture!
Thanks,
Leslie Polatty
Augusta, GA
Hi ladies!
I love your podcast! You interviewed my dear old friend/co-worker Fran Keenan… That’s how I found you! I listen to you as I walk my dog every morning. You’re all so fun & inspiring.
I’m intrigued today listening to Matthew Carter. I really want to see what he meant about his clients magazine display. I have several bookshelves in my home that are empty now. I have books on a few but mostly “dustables”!
I do collect several types of magazines. I’m trying to understand what he meant by folding the cover/ displays color?
Hope you can help!
Thanks…
Jane
Jane,
I’m so happy to hear the you like the show and find it inspiring. Also, Fran is fabulous. I’m such a huge fan of hers.
Matthew actually just sent me a photo of his client’s bookshelf, so I’ve added it to this episode’s notes. See above!
Caroline
Hello, got a quick questions for my living room area just above my sofa. Have ordered a round mirror around 3 feet all around. The outside is silver with a bird nest type effect. However, the area will need more mirrors going across the sofa area so I wanting to add one to two smaller mirrors across from the bigger mirrors. So here is my question: is it alright to mix smaller square and rectangle mirrors with the large round one? Also can different framing colors also be used if I cannot find the smaller mirror design I like framed in a silver as well?
I will be buying a new sofa (floating) will be a creamy beige with 6” legs. So now the legs are an important wood tone. I know they are showing an espresso color for legs, but would a medium brown leg look out-dated?
Not at all Christine,
It totally depends on your space. You have a few options. You can coordinate the leg to the flooring you have, the other pieces in the room, or just have it work best with the fabric on your sofa.
A medium-brown is definitely not going to look outdated though!
Good luck,
Caroline
Oh my goodness, what a fun episode! Congratulations on 100, and here’s to 100 more!
Quick question. I’m fascinated by Karen’s dining room crown molding. I have drapes that my ,other and I made (ok, I described what I wanted, and my mom sewed every stitch). Unfortunately, I had her make them too short (this was before I started listening to y’all). Karen’s crown molding looks like it could solve my problem. Does it go clear to the ceiling or is there a drop from the ceiling to the top of the (what looked like to me the “top’ of the crown molding). Sorry, not trying to be a stalker! But I see so many touches that I just L-O-V-E.
I’ve just discovered your website via this article and I’m so happy I did. I’ve found such valuable information as I search for a sofa. The article on fabrics was great, however; I have a question.
In terms of sofa fabric, what might you recommend for a pet that sheds?
Thanks
Hi Dawn,
Microfiber, performance fabrics, and leather are the best fabrics to counter shedding from pets. We also suggest choosing a sofa in a similar color as your pet’s hair.
Helpful article…Please, what is the color of the beige paint on the wall in the first photo as well as the paint color on the sideboard? Thank you, Chris
Hello, hope you are doing well. I have a living room and bedroom with no ceiling lights at all. I am renting this place. What type of lights do you recommend? I have a fire place in my living room (that I wont be using at all), so anything to go with this style? Also, my bedroom has my study table too so anything specific that you recommend?
Venkatesh,
Since you’re renting, I’d suggest just add in lots of table lamps! Same thing for your office. A good task light is important for a workspace, but lots of table lamps and floor lamps will help the room feel bright and comfortable.
Good luck!
Great article! I have been trying to find the Hanging Pins you mentioned (Hanging pins create a look that’s polished from the front — no toothy clasps on your panel — and they move smoothly over your drapery rod.) but I can’t find anyone that sells them. Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks!
You should be able to find them pretty easily on Amazon. Just search ‘drapery hooks’ or ‘drapery pins.’ Good luck! Glad you found this article helpful 🙂
I have a red and gold damask sofa. I have painted the walls light grey. Having hard time with getting curtains and carpet to go with it. Any suggestions?
Hi Betsy,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here. Be sure to take good pictures and definitely include photos of the red and gold sofa fabric so they can coordinate with it!
Hope that helps,
Abbey
I’m looking at the blog on Caitlin Covington’s living room . What color is her wall paint, where’d she get her curtains and lastly, the two little art pieces by the window- are those from Ballard!
Hi!
We could really use your help ASAP! I am hoping we can put a roll top (beautiful – unique), on one side of our white brick fireplace (traditional black gas) – it would stick out about 6 inches, and a butler’s pantry (unique sideboard) on the other side – lake side. It would stick out about an inch maybe. (The outside of the home is a kind of beachy modern design with hardy shingles in cobbletstone colour.)
Can these 2 antiques “frame” our fireplace? I would send a picture, but I don’t see where to upload it.
Thanks in advance 🙂
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Alexandra,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck!
I have a 12ft x 12ft dining area which is in same room as my kitchen. My kitchen is white shaker-style cabinets and gray quartz. My floor is an “urban loft” from Lumber Liquidators, vinyl flooring, different wood colors. I don’t know what type of dining table to purchase. I’m lost. Please help.
Hi Clarissa,
We typically suggest getting a round dining table in a square living room as it just usually makes the most sense spatially. In terms of finish, I would choose maybe a whitewash or graywash table to bridge the white cabinetry with the wood floors. Then add in color and softness with your drapery, rug, chandelier, etc. Good luck!
Abbey
It would be very helpful if “small” were defined by (square) footage. Planning with a range of footage in mind is key when shopping for furniture pieces.
Super easy to live with! We have loved the flat finish and it has held up really well (so far) to our 2 big dogs and toddler 🙂 there’s a couple things with Rubio that are different as far as cleaning, but for us I think it was a better option than polyurethane. But it’s totally preference! I’ve just always loved the look of natural floors – and it definitely brightens up the space.
Id like to get some ideas or tips on how to decorate living room bookcases.i try to make it look non cluttery and elegant but am not having any luck..??
I have a dining room and kitchen island very close together. What kind of lights would look great and not overcrowd the area? Need lights for both areas.
Hi! Just started listening to the podcast and really enjoying listening during my drive into work! Live in Charlotte and we have a Ballard, but have never been! Will have to pop in 🙂 Just wanted to comment to whoever said they are refinishing their red oak floors to natural because we just did that and love it 🙂 Actually applied a product called rubio monocoat in smoke as the finish, to take away some of the pink in red oak, but otherwise looks very natural. We love it! Good luck!
Oh my gosh, Lois. Thank you for the comment. I was actually talking to my flooring guy about the Rubio! I’m super interested in it and considered it but may just go with a matte finish on top. Mostly just because once they sanded the flooring it’s actually white oak and so pretty. I’m glad you like it though. Is the natural/light floor easy to live with? This just makes me feel so much more confident about the choice!
So glad you’re listening!
Caroline
I’m in a new home and in the dining area I have painted the walls yellow and have set down a floor rug (Laurent Collection, Design: Kubala), which is predominantly teal with blends of magenta, light orange and white. I am not sure what color of curtains to purchase. At first, I was thinking of a deeper yellow with a mixture of blue floral pattern, but I think that is going to clash. Now I’m just wondering about going with white. Thank you for any suggestions.
Hi Sandra,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
My mother was born on the Amalfi coast and immigrated to America when she was 10. Much of our family still is there and my husband and I were actually married there ten years ago. My dream is to recreate this feel in my 1400sf Southern California 1950’s bungalow. The combination of mid century modern mixed with painted ceramics, and natural wood windows and doors combined with some downright gaudy gold mirrors and rod iron comforts me and makes me feel as though I am exactly where I need to be. However, I am struggling to pull this look together. I would love if you could expand on this design style and offer some options ideas for the bathrooms, living room furniture and kitchen.
Hi Daniella,
Thank you your question! We love the Amalfi Coast style and we will keep your suggestions in mind for upcoming posts. In the meantime, we have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. Simply upload images of your room and your question here and they will help you!
Abbey
Did I miss an article? I’m looking for information on how to properly space and or stagger floating shelves on recessed wall on both sides of fireplace with both mantle and large tv above the mantle. There are built in benches on both sides of recessed wall. The wooden shelves are not the full size of the recessed wall (shelf is 36” wall is 64”) due to an opening on one of the adjacent walls we can’t but up the shelf on that side… would I go higher than the tv? Start at the top? Start at the mantle? Due to size is it best to stagger? Unfortunately, these shelves are real wood, heavy and are going up on a wall covered in pine- think shiplap but distressed so I’m trying to get it right- the first time- which is not typically how I roll. 😉
Hi Anna,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
We agree with Caroline! Your home is beautiful, and we should have started our discussion with that statement. Steve and I were in problem solving mode and knew we were short on time so we focused on your request for small changes.
Thank you for featuring my decorating dilemma, ladies. I’m definitely going to implement the Giannettis’ suggestions for; stronger pops of color, incorporating larger pieces on the book shelves, larger rugs, and a trough of moss and a pair of tall lamps behind the sofa.
I like the idea of painting my kitchen cabinets (I’ve seen some beautiful emerald green examples by Farrow and Ball) but I worry that colored cabinets might be a passing trend.
I have to say that it was a little difficult to hear their assessment though. I mean, ouch! They definitely had nothing nice to say about my home.
Do not get discouraged! I actually look at it from the flipside — their only suggestions were finishing touches (accessories, rugs, and adding color). All of your anchor pieces are stylish and functional, and you’ve done a great job of the most challenging part of the decorating process! All you need are final touches to complete the space!
Everyone struggles with these same challenges — I know I certainly do! You have a beautiful home as is, these are just suggestions to take it to the next level!
Thank you for listening. Please send us photos of any changes you make.
Caroline
I have been wanting to buy furniture for my family room but I can’t find the way of knowing where to put what and what style of sofas to buy. I’ve always wanted a sectional but because of the way this room is positioned I think this type of sofa will block the flow to the room. I wish there was an option to send you a picture so that you have an idea of what I’m talking about.
Hi Martiza,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. You can upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Hi Martiza,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. You can upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
When you walk into my apartment the first thing you see is a wall at the end of my hallway. I’d like to put a picture there. Using the .57 rule for width I’ll need something 25″s wide but what vertical size should I be looking for? It’s something like 8′ 6″ inches floor to ceiling.
Emerson,
I’m so glad you’re finding this article helpful. The vertical size isn’t as important unless it’s hanging over a piece of furniture. Focus on the width of the wall.
It sounds like you’re on the right track!
Good luck.
I have a real dilemma!
We are moving to the East Coast to our new home. I want to incorporate our 3 seater high back yellow leather sofa in front of the living room window but I also need to work in a sectional sofa ( which i still need to purchase) along with an over sized wing chair that I also have.
How do you arrange a sectional sofa, and a non sectional sofa and wing chair in the same room so that it balances and looks cozy.
I would prefer the sectional to face the fireplace .
Would really appreciate your advice:)
Hi Linda,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Alyce,
Small living rooms are always a problem, but I have a few options for you! One way to squeeze something into the center of the living area would be to use two small side tables in the center like a coffee table. Two garden seats could work or a trio of tables like Suzanne Kasler’s <a href="https://www.ballarddesigns.com/suzanne-kasler-metal-accent-tables/362700"accent table. Another idea is to try and find a coffee table that one of your ottomans can nest under when you aren’t using it. That way it can tuck away when you’re entertaining!
The main thing to remember is just that you serve the purpose of a coffee table, even if you use smaller surfaces like garden seats!
Best of luck,
Caroline
I have a small space where I want to put a chair on either side of a window. The chairs style would be exactly the same, but the fabrics would be related, in color but different patterns. Would that look stupid?
Hey! I was wondering if you have any information on the changing table in Camille’s nursery? I love this nursery style and have been looking for a changing dresser. Thank you!
I love your color inspiration for painting rooms. I have a north facing bedroom that get little to no light. Directly behind it is a bathroom painted SW Tame Teal. The bedroom has white furniture with a hint of gray on the top surface. Can you suggest a bedroom color that would brighten the bedroom a little and compliment the bathroom?
Thanks.
Hi Phyllis,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
I liked her suggestion to group furniture in an open concept room as if there were walls dividing the space. I also liked the imagery of a rug being an island that is saving the lives of the furniture that sit on it.
I’d love a link to a source for the lighted bookends she mentioned. What a great idea! The only ones I could find were industrial/steampunk Edison bulb bookends on Etsy.
The picture for alabaster with the greenish hutch with the black mirror window frame thing over it could I find out what color the hutch is? I can’t find that information.
I love the pendant lights we bought from you and look forward to more purchases. We are in the process of starting to build a new home and I’m sure we will be looking at Ballard Design. Thank You, Missy
Try faux animal heads painted different color schemes . Or stained glass pieces, like the kind you find at estate sale and antiques stores. A long piece of kimono fabric would be gorgeous to. Hope I was able to help ☺️.
I was so upset when Cottage Living shuttered! Loved this episode- I have so many magazine tears of Fran’s work from old Southern Livings and Cottage Living.
Hi,
I have tried to order the driftwood toned Marguerite Bar Stools from Ballard. I called them this morning, they say they don’t offer them in a driftwood color. It only shows a brown and a white online. Could you give me some insight about where and how you got these?
Lisa,
I’m so sorry. Unfortunately, the driftwood color has been discontinued! We still have Distressed Oak and White available, so maybe one of them could work! Find them here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/marguerite-stools/413096
Good luck!
Rosemary,
Thank you so much for your question. We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out what to hang above your TV. Simply upload images of your room and your question here, and one of our designers will reach out to you.
Abbey
I love this look! I used to shy away from jewel tones, but lately I’ve been reaching for them over and over. Not sure if they’re just becoming more popular or if I’m just getting bolder as I get older! 🙂
This may have been my favorite episode so far. Very delightful guest. (He could have his own adventure show on Netflix!). Great to hear all the hosts updates (maybe a YouTube video series should be in the works?)
Sheila harrington
How do you get the cabinets
Abbey Nolte
Sheila,
You can purchase them on our site here. So glad you like them!
Shari Landa
Hi, great article, can u please advise me on the paint color in #4, it’s gorgeous!
Abbey Nolte
Shari,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck!
Tally
I really enjoyed this episode, thanks for featuring Alison! I like how she takes neutral calm rooms that don’t feel same-old-same-old. And they seem so lived in!
wanda Holt
Do have a newsletter, I can get?Wooden41048@hotmail.com
Abbey Nolte
Wanda, you can sign up for our newsletter here!
Helena Hart
I was hoping to see the before and after of Jennie’s house exterior, that you said would be in the show notes. Any way we can see that?
Aerene singh
Hi we have open plan new home and please help me to choose pillow colors for my black leather sofa n loveseat, our living room area rug is silver grey with dark grey shade n black shade.
Our coffee table n fireplace is shining silver glass
It’s very hard to cordinate accessaries for my home
Please help.
Aerene
Abbey Nolte
Aerene,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Carol
Where can I buy the leopard print Ottomans?
Abbey Nolte
Carol,
That is our Chancey Ottoman. So glad you like it!
Brandee Bice
Thank you. Out of all the demonstrations for how to hang curtains with clips, yours was the best. I got it the first time after reading your article. You made it super easy.
Caroline McDonald
Happy to hear it, Brandee!
Christi
I just LOOOOVE that you identify the paint colors used in your catalog displays. I fell in love with the SW Jade Dragon used in a bedroom display in the most recent catalog, and you posted the name and color identifier. Thank you so much. What a wonderful service you offer.
Karoline
Where is the lemon wreath & pillow from?
Abbey Nolte
Karoline,
That is our Outdoor Fashion Throw Pillow in Lisbon Blue. Unfortunately we don’t carry the wreath anymore.
Umesh
Hello, I would appreciate your help in deciding right linear pendant/chandelier size for kitchen island size 81’’ x 48’’. Could you please suggest the size we should go with?
Abbey Nolte
Umesh,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Karen
What is the color of the walls in the dining room?
Abbey Nolte
Karen,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck!
Natalie
Congrats Taryn! I think an episode on new builds, moving, and decorating one’s own home would be great! She’s living the dream of doing a custom build.
Karen Mastrianni
A wonderful conversation with Matthew! Really enjoyed it!!
Caroline McDonald
Thank you, Karen! Glad you liked it!
Sandra Veres
I’m in love with the wall decor in the third picture! The wooden one with the white rectangle and circle. Is that from Ballard? Is there a way I can find it? I don’t see it in the website. I have been searching for the perfect piece for a spot in my living room and that is perfect!!
Caroline McDonald
Sandra,
So glad you like this piece. Unfortunately we do not carry this design anymore. We have a few things that are similar if you’d like to browse our wall decor options.
Thanks for reading our article!
sherri lowry
This would be way more awesome with an after pic!
Romesena H Holman
Help!! My dilemma is how to use a wall in my large rectangular den with a large brick fireplace to display a host of people pictures and a second wall for awards and plaques.
Sena
Abbey Nolte
Romesena,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Jaye Bennett
GREAT ARTICLE! THANKS.
Carolyn
Loved this episode! I visited London in 2011 and was smitten with all things Cath Kidston so was particularly excited to hear ya’ll speak with her. I bought her book immediately after listening and just finished it. The pictures are amazing- how incredible to get such insight into her home. Her ability to make each room so inviting and willingness to share her mistakes make me admire her even more.
Caroline McDonald
Carolyn,
Thank you so much for this comment. So happy to hear you enjoyed this episode and love Cath’s work! She was a fantastic guest, and I totally agree that the insight and candidness of her book was so compelling and instructive. I loved it too!
Thanks for listening.
Arti Gupta
I have a wall with wooden sheets panels on it. The wall extends from ground floor till the third floor of
my house. That’s the wall that everyone who enters my house will see first thing. I need help in how can I decorate that wall. Please guide.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Arti,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Kimberley Christina-Wilson
Hi, on page 2 of the Holiday catalog (Nov 2020) there is a deep blue wall behind the xmas display. I’ve checked the paint colors for Holiday, Fall, and winter but I cannot find the name of the color. Please help.
Thanks,
Kimberley
Abbey Nolte
Hi Kimberley,
That is Sherwin Williams Santorini Blue 7606. So glad you like it!
Abbey
Lori myers
I am trying to decorate living with traveling photos and nature art .
Linda Logsdon
I am hoping to find the round, wood and metal coffee table and matching stackable end tables that are in the article “The Truth about Coffee Tables and Why You Need One”. Do you know if they are available to be purchased? Any help would be welcome.
Thanks,
Linda Logsdon
Caroline McDonald
Hi Linda,
So glad you enjoyed this post. Most of the coffee tables can be found here.
Caroline
Shauna Dagnan
Love the podcast! It is great to learn about so many designers and design influencers. My Amazon book list just keeps growing! Ha! Ha! I thought the Cath Kidston podcast was an an especially good episode. How thoughtful of her to take the time to do a floorplan for the decorating delimma!
Caroline McDonald
Shauna,
Thank you for this feedback. So glad you enjoyed the episode. Cath was a great guest with such a unique point of view.
Happy Decorating,
Caroline
Mandi
Could you please tell me if the wall color on page 73, September 2020, is paint or grass cloth? What color is it, please, I would love to order.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Mandi,
Could you describe what’s in the room so I can get a better idea of what image you’re talking about? Since we send out different versions of our catalog I don’t know which image you are seeing on page 73.
Thanks!
Abbey
Kimberly Starks
Our home is traditional/victorian which includes deep walnut wood trim throughout. I want to create a warm cozy environment. How do I use furniture to tone down the boldness of the wood throughout? The bigger question is should I do whitewash wood, cream, gray, or walnut for tables, etc?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Kimberly,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
D Dwyer
Hi ladies,
I love listening to your weekly podcast and have learned so much from them. My comment is regarding the new introduction. For my own personal opinion I prefer the old way. For me it is much more personal and authentic. Just thought I would share my thoughts, ( don’t change what already works)
Best regards ladies and stay well!
🥰🥰🥰
Caroline McDonald
Thank you, D. So glad you enjoyed the show. We’ll considering changing up the introduction!
Reg
May I know the artwork series used in idea #4 please.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Reg,
That is our Sakura Blossoms Art. So glad you like it!
Abbey
Heather
Thank you for the great different suggestions on the listener’s Decorating Dilemma. An L-shaped room is difficult to figure out! I really enjoyed how each person contributed a different layout using the owners items, kept function in mind, and augmented it to give it more polish.
Elaine
Thank you for confirming the use of Glycerin. I remember using glycerin to keep Holly fresh looking for crafts. I just wasn’t sure if it could be used for other cuttings.
JGee
Don’t forget jabot…
Dana
I have a long large wall in my formal living room and I have two large canvas hanging far apart to try and add some interest to this wall. After reading this article it seems that I have a lot of work to do to correct the aesthetics of this room. Please help! Thank you!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Dana,
It’s hard to give suggestions without seeing images of your room. Simply upload images of your room and your question here and our team of free interior designers would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma.
Abbey
Kimberly
When hanging three 20×24 frames symmetrically over a king size bed, should the actual artwork be similar in scale? I’m considering oysters. Options include 1, 2, 3 and a cluster of oysters each on 16×20 paper. Putting different pieces of artwork together always makes me nervous.
Abbey Nolte
Kimberly,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Natalie H.
I really liked this episode– Stephani was a great guest with great tips! I chuckled when she talked about spouses with different design styles. Very relatable. Her and Toledo Geller have probably been my favorite designers in terms of their portfolios.
Caroline McDonald
Oh good! So glad you enjoyed this episode, Natalie. And thank you for taking the time to write us this note. Stefani was great!
Debbie Egan
I was disappointed there was no St. Nicholas this year. I bought three of last years and gave them to my daughters who started having their own children. Santa and the reindeer last year was the perfect one. My sister bought the one for her and me with Santa and the red cardinal (2016). My dad passed away in September that year and now every year when I hang it up for Christmas, I feel he is with me. I am desperately looking for the St Nicholas with the white dog (looks like a bichon) probably 2014 or 2015. I wanted to buy it for my sister because it looks just like her dog Sammy but was too late that year. My sister turned 60 this year and I thought it would be the perfect gift, especially since Sammy is getting up in age. If you know where I could buy one, I appreciate your help, they are real keepers.
Debbie Egan
Milford, MA
Abbey Nolte
Hi Debbie,
Thank you for sharing your story. We are so touched to hear the art reminds you of your father. Unfortunately, we no longer make that version so we are unable to recommend a place to purchase it.
I hope you had a great holiday season,
Abbey
Shawna Vordokas
I want to see Caroline’s house before and after.
Caroline McDonald
Shawna,
You’re so sweet. Still working on the after 🙂 We’ve made some progress but still a LONG way to go!
Caroline
Sharron
Hello, I have a bi parting gate. I would like to place a wreath on each side- each side being 10ft. What size do you recommend? Thank you.
Abbey Nolte
Sharron,
We suggest a very large wreath, at least 36”.
Happy Decorating!
Denise
Please tell me the name and COLOR of the fabric
used on the sofa in room #10.
Thank you so much.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Denise,
That is our Justify Horizon InsideOut Performance Fabric. So glad you like it!
Abbey
William
His is the best site ever! Keep on going and wish the best of luck!!!!
Simone Major
Hi,
I have a huge wall above the staircase that i am trying to add family photos to. The wall is approximately 20’h x10′ w. When i look at it, its seems overwhelming, but i know i want to hang all my pictures of my family- past and present here as a reminder of all the times we were together
Blaire Kribs
November 2020 page 18, has a paint color called “Tan” I went to buy this color and it doesn’t exist. Did part of the name get left off by mistake?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Blaire,
That color is Sherwin Williams Farro #9103. So glad you like it!
Abbey
Karin Mingus
No 2020 Santa print this year? 😢😭A great idea would be to roll out the entire collection again and let people fill in the gaps. I do not have the all white one, but would love to buy one.
cate
This was super helpful and fun to read. Your photos and the article suggestions go great together. I am so happy I found your website and look forward to diving deeper into it for help and products. Thank you, 🙂
Cheryl
Thank you for all of this helpful information. I’m wondering what the paint color is on the first page of the “Warm Up For the Holiday” insert. It is inserted between pages 42 and 43 of the November 2020 catalog. It is featured on a wall with a corner curio cabinet, and appears to be a deep blue. Thank you again for your help.
Abbey Nolte
Cheryl,
That is Sherwin Williams Santorini Blue 7606. So glad you like it!
Natalie
What a wonderful episode! Markham was so down to earth and informative. Definitely a favorite! I’ll be checking out his book and adding it to my Christmas list.
Caroline McDonald
Natalie,
So glad you enjoyed it. He is incredibly talented, and down-to-earth just like you said. Thanks for listening and taking the time to write us a comment 🙂
Happy decorating!
Roger
What console table is that? I really like it, but can’t find it on the ballard website.
Abbey Nolte
Roger,
We no longer carry that console but here is a similar one.
Happy Decorating!
Abbey
Vick Reed
Did I miss the 2020 St Nicholas print ?
Abbey Nolte
Vick, we did not have one this year.
Melissa Sufat
Could you kindly share the Ballard Designs November 2020 catalog Page 14/15 PAINT COLOR? Thank you in advance! Need this!
Abbey Nolte
Melissa,
Here are all the paint colors from our Holiday 2020 catalogs.
Hope that helps!
Abbey
Janell Redmond
Will a square shape coffee table work with an L-shape sectional?
Caroline McDonald
Yes absolutely! Just be sure to pick one that allows plenty of room to navigate around the ottoman.
Karen
I have a room. Size is 20ft wide and 14 ft deep. I bout a couch that the length is 101” and 45” deep and a love seat that is 72” length and 45” deep. Also a buffet 65”
Long and 20” I’m depth. And ATV stand that is 65” long and 25” deep. I want to put a recliner in. It that to much?
Abbey Nolte
Karen,
Try laying out your room in our Room Planner. That will show you how everything will fit.
Happy Decorating!
Joan
I just bought the Allister counter stools .. what can I use to protect the fabric? Can I use a scotch guard spray?
Caroline McDonald
Joan,
You should be able to use scotch guard, but maybe try to test a small, inconspicuous patch just to check that it won’t alter the look of the linen. Good luck!
Caroline
Linda wise
You have a “thing” hanging on wall with jacket: hat/ purse hung on it. Where can I purchase that thing? I have a guest bedroom without a closet
Thank you.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Linda,
I’m not sure which product you are talking about. Here is a link to all of our wall shelving.
Hope that helps!
Abbey
Isidra Jackson
Thank you so much for saying what I knew. No grey wood flooring, always natural wood. The other touchpoint was the white bathroom, tiles, floors you can add color on the curtains, towels, and rugs.
Melissa Mullan
What’s the best size wreath to hang above a king size bed?
Abbey Nolte
Melissa,
Really any size could work. Just depends on the look you’re going for.
Happy Decorating!
Josh C.
Hello all!
I have a bare wall that’s 5’3″ (64 inches long) between two light switches by a 8 ft. ceiling in my apartment. It faces the living room and dining area so it’s very visible. And I can’t put a credenza along the wall because it’s the main walkway.
I have a vertical piece that’s abstract wall art (24.5″x31.5″) and a horizontal piece that’s sports-themed & black and white (21.5″x17.5″). I have a 6″ gap between the two photos and about 5.5 inches on either side of the photos to the light switches.
I have them at eye level and I think it looks great. The abstract piece is to the left and horizontal to the right. I just don’t know if I should swap out the horizontal piece for a vertical one given how much space I have. Any suggestions?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Josh,
It’s hard to give suggestions without seeing images of your room. Simply upload images of your room and your question here and our team of free interior designers would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma.
Abbey
Natalie H
This was one of my favorite episodes! I love when it’s not just an interior designer but some other profession or format. Makes the whole thing feel very fresh! I’d love if you invited her back or did another realtor because buying/selling/staging is very relatable! I’d also like to see one just on DIY projects–what you can do yourself, what you should buy/hire out, etc.
Caroline McDonald
Great idea, Natalie. Thank you!
Beverly K. Weisbaum
The 3 white Christmas trees shown with the gift wrapped boxes – where can I buy them?
Abbey Nolte
Beverly,
Those are our Tremblant LED Trees. So glad you like them!
Abbey
Diane R Otey
I am building a small guest house (800 sf) and the living room/kitchen are open and a combined space. I am using a dark gray cabinet in the kitchen with a creamy, light granite.
In the living room I am having a cabinet wall unit/book shelves built around the TV. I was going to make them white but now am wondering if I should match the kitchen cabinets. Does it matter to have two colors so close to each other?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Diane,
It sounds like those colors will mix well together so go for it!
Abbey
Tatiana
Hi there!
Would you mind sharing on where I could get the exact gold curtains (under the ring clips) in this article please? Thank you.. And thank you for all the wonderful and helpful posts!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Tatiana,
That is our Dupioni Silk Drapery Panel. So glad you like it!
Abbey
Charity Miller
I have 8’ tall doors that are 42” wide. What size wreath would you recommend?
Abbey Nolte
Charity,
As long as the wreath isn’t wider than the door, you should be fine. 36” would work great.
Amanda
Hello, I’ve ordered the METAL BRONZE .75IN DIAM S10 RINGS
Item#: DH076 BRZ SML and french return rod. The rings haven’t arrived yet, but in the meantime I’d like to order custom curtains. Can you tell me how much length these specific ring clips should add to the panel? Thanks!
Abbey Nolte
Amanda,
Probably about ½ inch.
Hope that helps!
Lou Ellen Lathan
I would like to put wreaths on our front windows. (The front door is rather recessed and not as visible.) the windows have a small arch at the top. Window height is 10’2”. Width of the glass is 46”, width including casement is 52”. What size wreaths would be best?
Abbey Nolte
Lou,
36″ wreaths are your best choice.
Happy Decorating!
Carrie
I love the podcast, but I’m not loving your new intro—it’s very “my pillow dot com” cheesy. I’m sorry, but I prefer your voices to begin the podcast.
Caroline McDonald
Oh no, Carrie! We will take another listen. We thought it was very Masterpiece Theater! We appreciate your feedback though and will take another listen 🙂
Caroline
eleanor gilchrist
What is the paint color of the walls on page 62 & 63 of the October 2020 catalog?
Question, when giving decorating tips on the catalog pages, why not just list the paint color. thanks for your reply.
eleanor gilchrist
What is the wall color on page 62 & 63 of the October 2020 catalog. Also when you are giving decorating tips why not just list the wall color along with the decorating tip.
Abbey Nolte
Eleanor,
That is Farro #SW 9103 by Sherwin Williams. We list all the paint colors in this post.
Happy Decorating,
Abbey
Sonia Burford
Hi.
Iv a dilemma which I cannot find the answer to online. I’m trying to decorate my hall.
It is both long and dark and to make matters worse; it runs across the front door. ( 90 degree angle.).
So it’s about 10ft to the left of the door with two bedroom doors off it;
and 10 ft to the right of the door, with two more bedrooms and a bathroom off it. The stairs are directly opposite the front door.
So to put it bluntly. There’s a lot of doors, not a lot of wall space and no “end wall” which I could focus on to decorate.
I am a minimalist, but would still like to
Decorate it as a cohesive design.
When ever I look on line all I find is
Long dark hallways. But they always have a focus wall. To put a mirror or a console table/lamp etc.
As my hall runs at right angles and the first thing you see is the stairs. I am at my wits-end.
Please help.
Many thanks.
Sonia.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Sonia,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Andria Schwind
Could you tell me what the blue wall color is on pg. 82 of the October 2020 catalog? Thank you!
Abbey Nolte
Andria,
That is Santorini #SW 7607 by Sherwin Williams
So glad you like it!
Lisa
Can you dry clean curtains after using the tape?
Abbey Nolte
Lisa,
I suggest asking your local dry cleaner about this.
Susan Ruediger
Hi Caroline,
You’ve done a great job answering all of the other paint questions – hoping you can answer mine as well! :). Page 23 – the deep blue walls . What color is that? In my catalog it’s the color on the calls of the foyer / mud room with the white Crawford Shiplap Entry Cabinet and the indigo fern leaf art.
Thanks for your help!
Abbey Nolte
Susan,
That is Santorini #SW 7607 by Sherwin Williams. You can find all the paint colors from our Holiday cataloghere.
So glad you like it!
Abbey
Maura
I love the look of baby grand pianos, but experts say the sound produced by a baby grand is far inferior to a good upright. Of course a regular grand is better still, if you have the room and money. See The Piano Book by Larry Fine, forward by concert pianist Kieth Jarrett. By the way, I love your podcast and recommend it to all my friends. So good!! And I love the three of you. You three have made southern style even more accessible and inclusive than great southern literature, gardens, architecture, design, etc. had before you started the podcast. Thank you for being so inclusive.
Denise
I absolutely love ROOM #10!!
I plan to use it as my inspiration for a new coop I am buying in NYC.
Please tell me the name and color of the paint you used.
Thank you
Caroline McDonald
Denise,
The color used in this room is Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray. So glad you liked it. You can find all of the paint colors here.
Caroline
Lyn A Sheely
Hi – can you tell me please about the pattern to the far right on #6 patterns to love, paisley in blues? I am trying to coordinate a chair fabric and an area rug. This article is very helpful in mixing patterns to thank you for the tips.
Best, Lyn
Caroline McDonald
Hi Lynn,
Unfortunately, we don’t sell that fabric anymore, but you can see all of our blue fabrics here. I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed this article. Please let us know if you have any other questions.
Caroline
Kim Froehlich
Hi,
I love this website so much! I just bought a new house and want to maximize seating for our family of 6, but I don’t want to overcrowd the room. I found a couch I love, which is 155″ x 124″ in an L shape with the 155 going across the back of the room, which is 20.5 feet across. This leaves 91″ which is only 7.6 feet across to then place another 2 chairs for conversation along the other wall, plus allow for walking. It’s a great room, so the back of the 155″ side is the transition to the kitchen.
I know it’s a little hard to picture, but would you think the 155″ is an acceptable size, or will it be too large for that space, with wanting another chair on the side?
Couch:https://www.crateandbarrel.com/sectional-planner?collectionCode=13
Thanks for your help!
Kim
Kim
Caroline McDonald
Hi Kim,
Thank you for your question. Test it out using our Room Planner tool where you can really test out the sizing. Typically you want at least 24″ to walk around the chair.
Good luck!
Caroline
Sue
Love and learn so much from your podcast! Have been working my way back through those I’ve missed over the summer and listened to your interview with Courtney McLeod yesterday (episode 151). Love her. Love her confidence! Anyway, a chair she picked up at a trade flea market was mentioned. If I understood correctly, the cushion was painted. Couldn’t find a picture. Do you have one to share? I need the inspiration! Thanks !
Caroline McDonald
Hi Sue,
So glad you enjoyed this episode! Here’s a picture from her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/B_fGCtmn3SO/?hl=en
Happy Decorating,
Caroline
cele
I have double oval glass front doors. should I use teardrop wreaths or circle? Thanks
Caroline McDonald
Cele,
In terms of shape, either would work. Just make sure you measure!
Good luck,
Caroline
Connie
I hope you can help me. If I have a dining room 11′ x 12′ 10” what shape and size table would work best and give enough room for chairs and walk around?
Thank you,
Caroline McDonald
Connie,
Based on the measurements, your room is basically square. For square dining rooms, we usually recommend round dining tables. I’d suggest using our Room Planner Tool to test out what size round dining table you’ll need in your space.
Good luck!
Caroline
Hunter Walker
Where can I find the bedding in the picture with the calm paint color? I love it!
Caroline McDonald
Hunter,
That is our Liliana Ikat Bedding and our Anais Floral Bedding. So glad you like this room!
Happy Decorating,
Caroline
Cabby Flynn
How do I access this episode? There is no way that I can see to click into the podcast.
Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Hi Cabby, the podcast player is in the post now. Are you able to see it?
Vanessa
I have a 19 foot long wall. I want to hang 3 24×36 canvas nature prints. How far apart should they be and should I hang something else on the sides? I originally hung 4 24x 36 about 20 inches apart but it looked like a museum. Please advise if possible. Thank you.
Abbey Nolte
Vanessa,
It’s hard to make a suggestion without seeing a photo, but typically prints should not be hung more than 6” apart. Usually 3-4” looks best. Consider hanging the 4 prints together two on top of two instead of all side by side.
Hope that helps!
Gwen
Thanks for putting all these pointers in one place. Very useful! Please note, however, that each dining space should be 24 inches, as opposed to having 24 inches between spaces.
Caroline McDonald
Thanks, Gwen. We’ll make that correction!
Chris
Confused and upset. After reading all the reviews of how Versatile the Ballard Almafi collection Is for everyone that bought it on sale and how the cushions unzip so well angers me. I purchased over 15 pieces of it spent over $10,000 and cushions deteriorate zippers break paint falls off exposing bare aluminum. I spoke with several people at the company to no avail stock is beautiful and I would like to continue using it matter fact I just bought new cushions because they fit the investment I already made but I would like to see some customer service
Abbey Nolte
Hi Chris,
I’m sorry to hear about this. I will pass this along to our customer service team.
Susan
I would love to know where you bought the baskets on the door. Thank you
Abbey Nolte
Hi Susan,
That is our Adirondack Hanging Basket. So glad you like it!
Solange Abdulkarim
I need your help please , I bought livingroom furniture , french design with a lot of wood , hands and head, on the side of it and the back the fabric is stripe,but the cushions and pillows have print , i want to change the cushions and pillows to a solid color fabric, will it be ok? please help me. thank you Solange
Abbey Nolte
Hi Solange,
I don’t think you can go wrong with changing your pillows and cushions to a solid color. We offer plenty of solid fabrics you could recover it with.
Happy Decorating,
Abbey
Sam
I’ve been looking for a ‘chevron’ style print on upholstery for my sofa for about 8 years ! Seems it’s our of fashion- but your title image (as in how I got to this article) shoes a greyish one (with spilt red liquid from a mug…?).. where where where can I find it, performance or not…?! Feel free to email if preferred . Thank you!!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Sam,
That is our Justify Driftwood InsideOut Performance Fabric. So glad you like it!
Patricia Cochran
Have 4 24×30 framed Audubon bird pictures. I want to hang them side by side on wall over 2 recliner chairs and side table between them. These chairs face a fireplace with TV on mantle. My wall is 11 ft tall and 18 ft wide. What should spacing be??
Caroline McDonald
Patricia,
Typically spacing should be no more than 6 inches. Somewhere around 3 inches usually works great.
Best of luck,
Caroline
Sue
Wow. Everything looks beautiful! I’ll be moving soon and need help to “pull it together” as well.
I’m wondering what the wall art /fabric is? It looks like part family tree, part map & it’s hung w/ orange tacks?
Thanks for posting this beautiful room!
Caroline McDonald
Sue,
So glad you like this room. Kathleen and Robin did a great job pulling it all together. The wall art piece you mentioned is an Hermes scarf that Kathleen bought in Europe and had framed.
Good luck with your move!
Caroline
Joanne Nye
I love the paint you have in the kitchen. Can you please tell me the brand and color of this paint color. Thank you.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Joanne,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Ashlie Kell
Hello!
I moved into a very small house with a long awkward living room. would you help with layout suggestions? Please and thank you!
Abbey Nolte
Ashlie,
This post with our 15 best living room layout tips should help.
Happy Decorating,
Abbey
Nicolas DeBoisaison
So… foy-YAY is the new mispronunciation of Foyer. The correct way to say it would be Fwah-yih (like yippee)
Suzanne Knutzen
Hi! Can you please tell me the name of the paint color on the walls of page 6? Also, the beams look gray-blue. Is there a paint color for them as well? I love the warm browns in the rug & furniture!
Caroline McDonald
Suzanne,
What is the image on page 6? All of the paint colors are listed above, but some of them may look slightly different depending on lighting.
Caroline
Ashley
I have purchased the Chilton corner cabinet in grey and am hoping to find paint that matches the furniture. Any idea what the grey color and brand might be?
Caroline McDonald
Ashley,
We don’t have paint color matches for our furniture pieces. I’d suggest taking the bottom shelf out of the cabinet and having it paint matched at a local hardware store.
Good luck!
Caroline
Cindy Maxwell
I have a 8 foot tall and 42 inch wide mahogany door. What size wreath does this size door need?
Abbey Nolte
Cindy,
Make sure the wreath isn’t wider than your door. 36” would work great.
Lee Ann Thomas
What color wall is on the cover of the Fall 2020 catalogue? It’s a blue.
Caroline McDonald
Lee Ann,
The color is Benjamin Moore’s Solitude. So glad you liked it.
Caroline
Lisa
It’s great. This post helps and, your ideas were unique. Thanks for sharing.
G
I so truly enjoy Ballards! Can you please share the paint color on page 72 and 73 of the September 2020 Fall catalog issue.
Thanks
Caroline McDonald
Hi G,
What is in the images? All of the colors we used are above!
Caroline
Emma Wilson
I just bought a new lighting fixture and planning to change to the bulbs. This post was very helpful, thanks for sharing!
Caroline McDonald
So glad you found it helpful!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Barbra Stanislawczyk
Can you tell me the paint use on the cover of Ballard Catalog September 2020
Thank you
Caroline McDonald
Barbara,
It’s Benjamin Moore’s Solitude.
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Ashley
Thank you so much for the help on mixing patterns but I have a question- The pattern on the second swatch with the Arryanna Spa fabric- what is it called ?? I can’t locate it anywhere except the fabric and I am looking for curtains already made ( i am no seamstress!) thank you in advance
Caroline McDonald
Ashley,
I’m happy to help. Unfortunately the green citron geometric fabric has been discontinued. But if you’re looking for readymade drapery panels that would coordinate with Arryanna Spa, try our Buffalo Check panels in Spa, Bingham Panels in Mineral, or Le Lattis in Camel.
Let me know if you have more questions,
Caroline
Diane Brewer
Love the cabinet for the kitchen.
Robert
The porch swing looks great with those chairs. Did you paint the porch swing darker? If so what was the process and what type of paint and/or urethane did you use?
Caroline McDonald
Robert,
Yes, the Southern Living team painted to porch swing green for their space. Unfortunately, we don’t have any information about the process. Sorry we couldn’t be of more help.
Caroline
susan Thompson
Hi How would you decorate around red sofas ,i have milk white walls but would like to change cushions, and rug, and bring soft pastel colours in, i have pine units and i am thinking of painting them not shore what colour
Abbey Nolte
Hi Susan,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Joanne
I painted my living room, kitchen and hall in Behr Glass of Milk. It is a beautiful creamy white, with just a little yellow undertone- like french vanilla ice cream! Love it!
Laura French
What is the light color on the walls in the photo for Endless Sea?
Caroline McDonald
Laura,
It’s Behr’s Glass of Milk.
Happy decorating,
Caroline
GINGER WINGER
I am a big fan of Ballard Designs and have purchased many items from them. They have decorated my homes from Honolulu to Fort Lauderdale. May I say that Meg Braff is my all time favorite designer and her interiors are just fantastic. I have also followed her in many magazines including Southern Living and Coastal Living. What a wonderful designer!
Caroline McDonald
She was a great guest. We’re happy to hear you enjoyed the episode! Happy decorating!
ARLENE SPIVEY
I Love all of your designs. I have a large living room and you can see the dining and eat in kitchen. My sofa is a gold tweed and I have two chairs in big print with blue, brick red, apple green and gold that I love. However most of my furniture is all mahogony. Makes the room dark. I want it soft and comfortable, but can’t seem to get there. room 20×16
suggestions?
Abbey Nolte
Arlene,
I have a few suggestions to help brighten up your space and make it comfier. Try adding in a mirror, like this one. Not only will it help make the space feel bigger but it will reflect light and create a brighter atmosphere. I also suggest adding in neutral textiles like linen pillows and throws to soften up the space. Adding in some drapes like these linen sheer panels will also help create a soft and airy look.
Happy Decorating,
Abbey
Kate
Found your podcast recently and am hopping around listening to past episodes. I think Madeline Stuart is my favorite so far!
Caroline McDonald
Isn’t she incredible? So glad you enjoyed this episode!
Happy Decorating!
Caroline
Jan
I wish there were more ideas for the middleclass income people who like to decorate. My living room has a large , 8′ window, and total rock wall fireplace, a front door. that doesn’t leave much when the TV takes center stage and the view is wonderful. :/. A diagram please? thanks
Shashi
Hi. Can I ask what color hardware you use for the white curtains in that bedroom? I have Medium brown wood floors and bedroom furniture is also dark brown. So want to get white curtains (but don’t know what metal to get) and also a rug to soften the bedroom. So wondered what type of metal you used?
Abbey Nolte
Shashi,
We tend to use a dark metal with dark furniture and gold/silver metal with lighter furniture.
Hope this helps,
Abbey
Jd
Would you tell me the name of the business who built the stone potting sink/dog wash station 😉 and also the brand of the wicker porch furniture? Beautiful!
Abbey Nolte
Jd,
The wicker furniture is Ballard, but we no longer carry that collection. The stone sink was built by European Stone Concepts.
Happy Decorating,
Abbey
Susan McElrafth
Thank you so much for adding this function back!
Susan
Stacy O'Quinn
I would like to know how to send pictures of what I am wanting to do. Getting a new couch covered in a light cream. I want a bold material for two pillows and an ottoman. The wall color very close to fabric for couch. They wondering about a big room. I am terrible about mixing colors and prints. But first need to know how to get swatch pictures to your company.
Thanks in advance.
Stacy
Abbey Nolte
Hi Stacy,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Elaine Garrett
Is Piano in the recommended position?
Veleka Spears-Jones
I found this article to be wonderful. However, I was a bit disappointed with the lack of information regarding leather. Is there any additional information that you can provide regarding purchasing leather sofas?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Veleka,
This post goes into more details about the benefits of leather.
Hope that helps,
Abbey
Susan McElrafth
Up until episode 150, I could listen to the podcast from your website by scrolling down under the picture of the guest & clicking on the button next to the pink chair. As of episode 150, the pink chair & listen button are gone.
Is there something I am missing?
I really enjoy your podcasts and hope I can still listen in via your website (on my laptop).
Thanks,
Susan
Caroline McDonald
Susan,
I am so sorry! I just added the podcast player into the episode. It completely slipped my mind when I was prepping the episode, but it’s in there now.
Thank you for listening and letting me know that it wasn’t in there!
Caroline
Rabiah
Hi,
Loved your article, it was super informative and very well written.
I love the first white bookcase with the hexagon shelves! Where can I find that? Thank you!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Rabiah,
Unfortunately we no longer sell those shelves.
Cindy
I have an 18 foot wall with a 75 in TV in the middle of it. I have 2 groupings of pictures I would like to hang on each side. What is the rule for hanging pictures on the wall. Should I hang pictures on the sides of the TV or further away so it looks like 3 separates areas?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Cindy,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Michael
Hi there-
I have two walls seven foot in length with an entry way to a bedroom in between them. The ceiling is 10 feet. I have purchased a 5 panel art piece for one wall measuring 50″ w x 24″tall. Each panel is 10″ in width and progresses from 12″ tall to 24″ tall and then back down to 12″. I am thinking about another piece for the other wall that measures 30″ x 30″ OR 46″ x 46″. Do the pieces of art need to be closer in size? And do they need to be similar in medium? As it is, the 5 panel art piece is a colorful farmhouse mountain scene and the other piece I am considering is a square made of pine wood with a horse painted onto it. I am working on a farmhouse theme. Thus far I am cautiously optimistic in my ability to pull this off. 🙂 Thoughts?
Thank you,
MM
Abbey Nolte
Hi Michael,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Jo-Anne Salomone
Can you mail me a catalog
Abbey Nolte
Hi Jo-Anne,
You can request a catalog here.
Hope that helps!
Abbey
sue
Thanks for the help. I have a cherry bedroom set but want to upgrade my bed to a king. I kinda dont want to do another cherry bed. Right now its all too matchy. What color woods would go and what should I stay away from.
Sandi mangano
We just recently painted our family room and hallway leading to the front door, a light green. This color has opened the rooms up so much. Problem now is we need to change our rugs which were a medium brownish color. My husband wants a darker shade of green and I would like to go in a beige Family. Can you help us?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Sandi,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Zoe Campos
Thank you for telling me that the furniture arrangement plays a huge role when it comes to my patio decoration. I dropped by at my friend’s house the other day for a tea party and realize that it might be a good idea to decorate my patio like hers. I’ll try to look for some Minka aire fans that I can use and start from there.
Jane Smith
Thanks for this article and nice photos!
Vanita Mann
Thank you for sharing this information. It’s very enlightening.
Anu
Awesome article, Caroline! The room designs are incredibly well done–ten times better than what I’ve seen so far in my search for a solution to this design problem. More importantly, the tips are practical, so I feel confident I can make it work. Thank you!!
Laura
This is a great article! It would be so helpful to see the photos, but like others have commented, all I see is a white box. Can this be fixed?
Caroline McDonald
Hey Laura,
We’ve updated this post with the images. I hope you find it helpful!
Caroline
Mineral
Hi. Always LOVE your podcast. During the decorating dilemma you (I think it was Caroline) suggested the person add hoods to the drapery so it could be used with rings. How do you do that? Wouldn’t it rip the fabric? I am helping my friend select curtains and we want a pair of yours but it has the tabs on the back rather than hooks and so we thought we couldn’t use them?? Please help.
Caroline McDonald
Hi,
Thank you so much for listening and for taking the time to comment. Here is a post that shows the back of a curtain panel with drapery pins/hooks. You will slide the drapery hook through the back of the panel. If you’re using it on a panel with existing tabs, I would probably use the drapery hooks between the tabs instead of on the tabs. Most curtain panels are reinforced enough at that top seam to wear it should be fine. Sheers might be tricky, but they’re also super light so maybe it wouldn’t be a problem.
I hope that answers your question.
Best of luck!
Caroline
Caroline McDonald
Yes, you should be able to use drapery hooks instead of tabs! It depends on the fabric. If it’s a very gauzy, delicate fabric, it could be an issue. If it’s a heavier, lined fabric, it should be fine. If you want to be extra careful, you could order some hook tape and sew it onto the back of the panel to give it extra structure.
Good luck. So glad you’re enjoying the show.
Caroline
F. Robinson
I agree with all the other comments, beautiful porch designs. I have one question though, the area on my porch that I am decorating is 6×6, would a rug that is 5×7 be sufficient to cover the area? By the way your outdoor rugs are beautiful as I am in the market for an outdoor rug.
Thanks,
Abbey Nolte
Yes, that size should work for your space!
Jennifer DeJong
Can you tell me the paint colors used in the second and sixty photo in this post?
Abbey Nolte
Jennifer,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Christine Robinson
Caroline, does Ballard have any side chairs that we can use for the dining table for the two ends when we need, and yet keep on an everyday basis in our great room. We are moving to a smaller home that is really open and we need to be creative.
Caroline McDonald
Christine,
Absolutely! You want something a bit heavier and more substantial, but that’s still light and easy to move. Here are a few suggestions: Marlene Dining Chair, Patricia Chair, Haynes Chair, or the Andorra Chair.
Good luck! Congrats on your new home.
Michele
Where can I find the chairs from the first picture? I love that burnt orange colour and the style of the chair
Thank you
Abbey Nolte
Hi Michele,
That is our Larkin Swivel Glider. So glad you like it!
Sindy
What a lovely and well thought out plan for Lynn! I love the addition of the animal print on the bench and the colors are dreamy!
Rachel
I have a large print of a photo I took while in Italy. It hangs above our king bed, and I feel like it’s a bit small. I would love to find a pair of prints – maybe abstract or impressionistic – to flank the photograph.
Mary
I have a sunroom that’s in need of a makeover. The size of the room is 24′ X16′. It serves as a TV room and eating area. It is windowed on 3 sides and a stone grey granite wall on the 24′ length wall. 2 door openings opposite each other lead outside and into main house area.
I have one 3 seat couch and loveseat both in dark chocolate leather. I’m wondering if there is anything I can do to cover these couches or how I can brighten them up? The dining table is round with chairs that have ivory fabric covers. I’d like some suggestions on how to arrange the furniture and add accents (i.e., rugs, pillows, coffee table, plants). Your advice is most welcomed! Thanks.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Mary,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Nora
Dear decorator, I need your advice on how I can decorate my longggggg open living room. I have this beautiful marbled top bar with 2 stool that i would like to maybe put it in there somewhere. I would like a tv but i have windows covering on all walls except of course in fron of the entres door. I would probably put a big mirror there with thise nice side tables?? Help
Thank u so much
Abbey Nolte
Hi Nora,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Denise Cox
I’m really surprised that your room planner doesn’t have actual Ballard furniture in the library. We should be able to choose the furniture in the planner from the furniture that is for sale in the catalog, not just generic furniture in generic sizes. It is possible to alter the sizes of the generic furniture to match actual Ballard items, but it is an unnecessary headache. An intern could easily input all of the Ballard furniture pieces into the library.
Denice Shuty
What is the pole and hardware featured in your photos at top of this article?
Elizabeth
Hi
I have dark brown sofas, black and white geometric rug and cushions. I have just bought blue and white floral material to make a large table/footstool to add some colour. Do you think the patterned footstool will look ok on the geometric rug? And add blue plain cushions to the sofa. I’d love your opinion please
Thanks
Abbey Nolte
Elizabeth,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Lori Birchbauer
I need help deciding what color Vinyl Plank flooring I should put down in my family room. We have honey oak wanescoating paneling that goes half way up our walls. I would love to put a gray flooring down, but don’t want to make the wrong decision. Any help would be appreciated.
Abbey Nolte
Lori,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Catalina M Sacks
Would you please let me know what is the color of the front door please.
Catalina Sacks
Abbey Nolte
Catalina,
We are not sure of the color but you can find all of the sources for the 2015 Idea House here.
Cleopatra Y McCormick
I am trying to revamp my 3 bedroom, 3 bath house. I am changing carpets, tile, kitchen cabinets, bedroom furniture, bathrooms and paint etc… I love warm colors but i’m stomped on what colors i should paint the living room and bedrooms. I wish I could afford an interior designers…Can someone please help me?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Cleopatra,
We actually have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
danylle leeds
Hello,
Love your podcast. May I have the Etsy site you guys mentioned on episode 144 for the fake rosemary topiaries?
thank you so much!
Abbey Nolte
Danylle,
Karen got hers from an Etsy shop called Gardenerscottage451. Here is a link to something very similar to what she got. Hers is only a single ball.
Autumn Murphy
I’m so happy to finally listen to a person of color on the podcast! I hope to hear from more in the future!
Linda
Would love to get the paint colors that are in the Alana fabric!
Emily C.
I love the wide stripe fabric in white and gray. Is this still available?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Emily,
That is our Cross Country Dove Sunbrella fabric. So glad you like it!
paula cooper
I would like to hang 2 wreaths because I have solid black front French doors. What size if two will be side by side?
Abbey Nolte
Paula,
Just choose a size that isn’t larger than the doors, probably 2-3 inches of space on each side of the wreath to the end of the door.
Happy Decorating
Jen
I typically listen to your podcast on Ballard’s How to Decorate website, rather than via a podcast service. However, for some reason, episode 143 with Tara Shaw has no audio included on Ballard’s show notes’ website. The audio is available on Stitcher, so I can still listen to the podcast. But I thought you should know about the website glitch. Thank you, stay safe, and have a great day!
Abbey Nolte
Thanks, Jen. We have fixed it and now it’s in there!
Freddy Smith
How do I become a member and also I have a quick question.i just bought a house it has dark brown paneling my wife wants to make it that antique white, what would I have to do
Kathy Mullins
Could you share about the straw tote w leather handles in the Pretty Planters dialogue
Abbey Nolte
Kathy,
That’s our Woven Market Tote. So glad you like it!
Kathy Jackson
I have kilm beige walls, grey couch, tan recliner and off-white chair. Area Rug with grey, tan and off white on medium brown wood floors. I also have a fireplace with a white surround. My question: I am going to build built in book shelves on either side of the fireplace. What color should I do the bookshelves? Should I leave fireplace white? Thanks
Abbey Nolte
Kathy,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
kathy
If I have a long wall about 153 inches long what size canvas will fit. across from that wall I have a canvas the length of my couch . That picture is squire but length is length of couch. will a regular square frame work on the wall that is 153 inches. thank you
Caroline McDonald
Typically, we recommend looking for something that’s about 50-75% of the space. It’s hard to get a feel for your question without seeing it. Here are two posts that might help answer your question:
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2012/02/how-to-hang-wall-decor-101-2/
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2016/03/10-ways-to-fill-a-blank-wall/
Lori Arthurs
I’ve read anywhere from 10″ to 13″ between top of dining chair and table. I have a bench that is 20″ so if purchase a table that is 30″ will that be too tight (10 ” between top of bench and table top)? I can’t decide if I want to pair it with a bistro table or a rectaugular table. The area is small and my current 42″ round table is a bit too large.
Shena Ross
Hey, I need some advice. I have gunstock kitchen cabinets and living room floor. We want to put up wood walls in kitchen and living room (open floor plan). We live in a small cabin so we don’t want it to look smaller, any advice on what color wood walls we would greatly appreciate it ?
Thank you!
Shena
Abbey Nolte
Hi Shena,
It’s hard to suggest a color without seeing pictures of your space. Our team of interior designers would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Brittany
I just want you all to know that I love your podcast! This podcast has been the highlight of my day for several months, I have been playing catch up. I couldn’t help but notice that some people leave negative comments after the episodes and honestly it just upsets me! I know everyone has their opinion, but I just wanted you ladies to know the reason I listen is because you all are so real and it’s like I’m hanging with a group of my best girlfriends. I just wanted to thank you all for such a fun and inspiring podcast. You have no idea how it’s gotten me through the last couple months of the pandemic. Living in Los Angeles, I crave the southern hospitality that you all spill out in every episode, it’s what keeps me coming back for more. And never stop the trials and triumphs! Love you girls!
Caroline McDonald
Brittany,
Thank you so much for this comment. It 100% made my Friday. We are so happy to hear you enjoy listening. We’ll keep chugging along bringing you new design inspiration each week. I’m going to have to share your comment with Karen and Taryn.
Happy decorating!
Caroline
Jenn
Please provide the pictures from design agony!
Caroline McDonald
Hmm, pictures from trials and triumphs? Design dilemmas? What is design agony? Perhaps we need to rename our segment!
Jenn
Hi, where are the design dilemma pics? that is best part?
Cindy
Hello,
I have light grey/sage walls and a gray loveseat is coming in two days. My floors look like tile that is light sage with grey. I purchased grey/white plaid curtains and would like to purchase an area rug to pop some color, but I really need help picking a rug in the right color and pattern so that I don’t have a major pattern overload. My living room isn’t very big. Help, please. Thank you!!!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Cindy,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Kim Boyer
I LOVE listening to your podcast on “how to decorate” SO much! I really enjoyed this last episode from Clare on organizing… my husband and I are total opposites when it comes to keeping things in their proper home, he is not tidy in the slightest. We have been married for 34 years and he just doesn’t get it! Ugh! It has been a constant frustration for me and he just turns a deaf ear to my desires for a more organized home. I think by listening today, I can see that if I can simplify more and keep the clutter down we won’t have so much stuff to shuffle about. Thank you for all the suggestions on how to manage the stress of having too much stuff!
Renata
Hi, hope to get some ideas. I have a wood bookshelf (starmore) I bought for a formal living room. I was going to put it on a wall with accent chairs in front of it with a small ottoman. The room has a bay window with a built in bench. What colors can I do?
Can I get away with black white and yellows. I love yellows and blue.
It’s the first room you see when you enter my house, it is in the front so it’s vert bright, which I like. Please help
Abbey Nolte
Hi Renata,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Linda
How do you order the big wall planter?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Linda,
Unfortunately we no longer sell that planter.
Barb tidmore
Is tne acrylic shelving rectangle available for purchase, same question for the acrylic single shelf,
Abbey Nolte
Barb,
Yes, that is our Acrylic Wall Organizer and our Acrylic Wall Bracket. Both are available on our site. So glad you like them!
Brittany
I love this podcast! Thank you for continually recording. This podcast is saving my life during quarantine. I love listening to you girls and your wonderful guests. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Nancy
Wow! Tammy’s work is absolutely breathtaking! I just browsed through her portfolio on her website and each room is stunning. Each home she designs is unique, exuding the client’s personality and interests. She is a master at traditional and contemporary – casual and formal. I’ve just added a new designer to my favorite designers list.
Suzanne English
I would like to know about the botanical pictures shown in the 2020 Spring Colors.
PLMK
Thank you
Abbey Nolte
Hi Suzanne,
That’s our Leaf Watercolor Art. So glad you like it.
Susan
This was very informative. I have a Ballard chandelier (I think) that was in our condo when we bought it. The chandelier has candle sleeves that look like, as you described it, “drippy wax.” They can easily be switched but I don’t see alternatives on the Ballard website. Do you sell them?
Abbey Nolte
Susan,
So glad you enjoyed the episode! No, we do not sell those.
Abbey
Allison Kanny
Is this Katarin rug in natural or platinum?
Abbey Nolte
Allison,
It’s in platinum.
Happy Decorating,
Abbey
Eva
I loved this podcast. I am also an INFJ and so identify. I am also someone who hates the sound of swallowing next to them and persistent reparative sounds too. Sound can also be clutter and any type of clutter drives me crazy. Serenity, beauty and calm should be fundamental human rights !
I love your podcast and so appreciate how natural you are and how your individual characters come through. I do get that you are professionals and do this podcast for Ballard. All in all I have the impression that Ballard, as a company is people orientated and I love that.
I live in Austria and was wondering if your services extend as far as Europe ?
You guys are great and please keep the conversation going. There is nothing frivolous about crating beauty, balance and harmony even if it is just at home .
Hugs
Eva
liz mcauliffe
i am looking for the santa with the little white dog in his lap,,,,any thoughts where i could find one????
Abbey Nolte
Liz,
Unfortunately we no longer sell that painting.
Jackie Burke
Can you tell what the green paint color is in the picture of the living room for the Alana fabric?
Abbey Nolte
Jackie,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Alissa
Could you please tell me the paint color on pages 16 and 17 of the March 2020 catalog?
Abbey Nolte
Alissa,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
carmen chiaradio
Is the settee in # 11 still available?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Carmen,
Yes, that’s our Sofia Settee.
Frank DeVita
Hello,
I am single father in need of decorating help!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Frank,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Christine
I live in a high-rise in my living room and dining room is together.
I am looking for a sofa between 78 and 80 inches wide. I would like three cushions (no T-cushions anywhere). I suffer from back issues so I need the sofa to be 37-38 inches high, and more on the deep side (not too deep). I would like thin track arms,
on 4 or 5” visible tapered legs. This is my wish list. I know you have to sit on the sofa because they all feel differently.
I’m not sure if I’m going to put the sofa with a matching wide chair and a wing back chair with different fabric in the corner or a sofa with two different chairs facing the sofa.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Christine,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Jessica Moody
I’m decorating a small guest bedroom. I’ve arranged the bed coming out from angled walls. How should I arrange 2 pictures of exactly the same size on the angled walls above the bed? Staggered? Same height? Also, how high above the bed?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Jessica,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Timea Kovacs
I just purchased a home and I need help. Door is centered to the house but entering you find yourself in the living room and facing the fireplace with the stairs to its right going to the second floor.To the right is the “dining room” and to the left is a wall to a bedroom. My husband would like to keep the room But I am not sure how decorate or even where to place a tv.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Timea,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Jessica Gibson
in the March 2020 catalog, there is a pink wall on page 60-61. I would love to know the color! 🙂
Abbey Nolte
Jessica,
We will be posting our Spring paint colors soon. Stay tuned!
Abbey
Caroline McDonald
Jessica,
It’s Sherwin Williams’ Rosy Outlook. You can find them all here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2020/03/spring-2020-paint-colors/
Thanks for your question.
Regina
Love your catalogs, inspires me to make a few changes, not much but maybe some new pillows.
I am a retired designer
Michelle
Hi Caroline, Could you tell me what the green color wall paint is (in the second photo and same in the last photo with the pumpkin colored chairs)? Thanks.
Michelle
Abbey Nolte
Hi Michelle,
That is Sherwin Williams Meadow Trail #7737.
Abbey
Rosemary Mailas
Very much enjoy your podcast! I am hoping that you will be interviewing Sarah Richardson one day!
mary
I don’t see any images with this article, but there are blank boxes with a question mark in them indicating an image. How do I see the images? This is a GREAT article on using the color wheel. Thanks for any help!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Mary,
Thank you for pointing this out for us. We will work to get it fixed!
Abbey
Taylor Finch
When will paint colors be released for the March 2020 catalog?
Caroline McDonald
Taylor,
You can find the paint colors here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2020/03/spring-2020-paint-colors/
Caroline
Amanda Barry
I have two 108″ drapes that I would like to add trim to only one side of each drape. How many yards of trim do I need?
Thank you.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Amanda,
You should talk to your seamstress or dry cleaner, but there are 36” in a yard, so at least 3 yards per panel, but I would give yourself and extra yard just in case.
Hope that helps
Abbey
Rachel Alexander
This was an awesome podcast, but seemed way to short. I could have listened for another hour. You need to have these amazing ladies back again. They had some fantastic tips and were hilarious.
Caroline McDonald
Agreed! We could have chatted with them all day. We’ll definitely have them back. Thanks for your comment and for listening to the show!
Caroline
Nancy
Cate and Lathem were a delight to listen to. What great senses of humor and lots of great tips and advice. I loved hearing how these young designers are respecting the history and beauty of antiques and finding fresh ways to incorporate them into modern designs. Thank you for bringing such interesting, fun and talented guests to podcast.
Caroline McDonald
Nancy,
I’m so glad you enjoyed this episode! Cate and Lathem are fantastic — so talented and down to earth. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Caroline
Jane Jernigan
Im thinking about having a wood counter on my island and marble on the rest of the countertops. Would I need to match my kitchen table with the color of the wood island?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Jane,
There are so many factors that could play into this. How close are the pieces to each other? Are they similar shapes? Overall, we would say no, they don’t need to match.
Hope that helps!
Abbey
Kristen
Hi! Any idea on the window coverings? Looks almost like a Roman shade but not. I’m obsessed though!
Amber
Help!! I have floating shelves in my kitchen and they aren’t wide enough to put stuff on I need suggestions!!
Thank you!!!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Amber,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Kim Burke
I just bought a 10×14 area rug for the dining room in my new home. I want to get the memory foam under rug cushion that you have spoken about on the podcast many times. I searched the website where I thought you ladies said it was from but could not find it. I also searched your podcasts but could not find the ones where it was mentioned. Can you help me find it? Thank you.
Caroline McDonald
You can find it in the show notes here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2019/11/podcast-timothy-corrigan/
Patricia Jarrett
Great usable ideas!
Lois Lyman
Caroline. I need advice on how to incorporate two reclining chairs in my living room. I currently have a 2 piece sectional and one recliner and it will be too crowded when I purchase another recliner. Should I utilize just one half of the sectional or purchase a new sofa instead?
Thanks. Lois
Abbey Nolte
Hi Lois,
It’s hard to give give you good advice without the measurements of the room. We do have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Juli Findley
Hi ladies-
Love the podcast. I wanted to ask a question and also answer a question
My husband has a study with hardwoods. I want to put a rug in his study but he likes to roll back in his office chair. What is the best rug for rolling office chairs. He wants a plastic mat so I need help!
As far as the juju hat, I have a tip for you. We lived in Africa and my juju hat came from the juju market as well as many other treasures. We always put these items in the freezer for a few days and that seemed to take care of the bug problem.
Keep us the good work!
Juli
Caroline McDonald
Juli,
Thank you for that great tip. I will pass it along to Taryn and Karen. They’re the juju lovers!
That is a tricky question about the rug. I’ll ask our team about it, but I bet a sisal or seagrass rug would be great because they aren’t super plush. An indoor outdoor rug would likely work well too!
Caroline
Jack
Skye, I know a lot more about you now! Your own story is one worth retelling to others–inspiring!
Annette
The images are not visible on this page. Can you please correct this?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Annette,
Thank you for pointing this out for us. We will work to get it fixed!
Abbey
Jennifer Mallory
How do I submit my décor challenge to this group?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Jennifer,
You can submit images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Kacey
Ok, I love ALL episodes but I REALLY loved this one. the pretty, the technical! Chock full of goodness!
Caroline McDonald
Thanks Kacey. So glad you liked it!
Jan
That is my furniture. Could it be painted successfully?
Deb
Can you tell me what color is on the bathroom walls on page 42 of the February 2020 catalog? I’ve searched through the blog for paint colors but don’t see this room. Thank you.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Deb,
Unfortunately we don’t know what paint color this is. Sorry!
Vanessa Davenport
Hi I’m trying to decorate a small room that I turned into a walk in shoes closet. I would like to put a throw rug and ottoman in center. The size of room is 8ft by 12 ft. What size throw rug should I get and should it be round or square/rectangle.??
Abbey Nolte
Vanessa,
We have a team of free interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Brenda
Would love to know the wall color used in your latest catalog. It is the dark green.
Thank you.
Caroline McDonald
Hi Brenda,
There were two greens in our Winter 2020 catalog – Sherwin Williams Arugula and Pewter Green. You can see the whole list here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2019/12/winter-2020-paint-colors/
Thanks!
Caroline
Barbara
What is the name or catalog number for for the occasional chair in picture 2? Looks to be dark grey or brown velvet, armless in front of a bed in picture. Does Ballard sell that chair currently?
Thank you
Abbey Nolte
Hi Barbara,
Unfortunately we no longer sell that chair.
So sorry,
Abbey
Judith Feller
Hi,
I just received the February 2020 catalog and I am very interested in finding out what paint color was used on page 4 and page 10. One is a creamy white and the other is a sort of olive green. I would really appreciate it if you could tell me the color names and brand. Thank you!!
Caroline McDonald
Hi Judith,
You can find all of the colors here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2019/12/winter-2020-paint-colors/
Glad you enjoyed looking through your new catalog!
Caroline
Christina Chesson
I love your podcast and your guests are lovely. I do think that your listeners are not in the same deomographic as your design guests and their clients. Most people shopping at BD (like me) are not designing a house around our original art collection and I think most of the people who are designing their homes around their original art collections are not listening to designing podcasts. I absolutely love your “triumphs and tribulations” because they make me feel like we are all in the same boat and we can meet the challenge…and succeed! I actually think most of the BD customers and podcast listeners would love to hear from design bloggers as well as your interior design guests…a kind of high/low for inspiration as well as grounding. 🙂
Caroline McDonald
Christina,
Thank you so much for listening and for taking the time to write a comment with your feedback. I totally understand where you’re coming from. I’m certainly not working with priceless art pieces in my own home! We definitely try to get a variety of designers who work with all different budgets, so I’ll keep this in mind when looking for new guests.
With that said, I’ve learned the most and gotten some of the best tips from designers who work on multi-million dollar projects — Bunny Williams, Tom Scheerer, Timothy Corrigan, and Madeline Stuart all have amazing insight into how to think about your home regardless of what price point you’re shopping in. Take her client with the incredible art collection. Most of us won’t be decorating with that same level of artwork, but we can still apply the principal to our houses. For me, the takeaway was that we don’t necessarily have to ‘match’ our artwork to our room. It’s ok to move things around and think more fluidly about your wall decor versus planning the art down to the perfect coordinating color palette that goes with your drapery fabric.
We have some fun things planned — both more practical tip shows and up and coming guests who I think you’ll enjoy. Stay tuned!
Caroline
Linda
Ladies…especially Karen, please don’t I interrupt or fill in your guests sentences. Tom Scheerer know best!!
Let
Caroline McDonald
Thank you for your feedback, Linda. We are working on it! Sometimes we just get so excited, we can’t contain ourselves. Tom is amazing. We loved having him.
Happy decorating, and thank you for taking the time to comment!
Wanda
Dayna Chair cover does not look finished at corners.
Brooke
After discovering the pod, I’ve been going back to old episodes and loved this one!
Caroline McDonald
Brooke,
So glad to hear you’re enjoying the show so much that you’re listening to old episodes twice!! Also, you’ll be thrilled to know Carson and Thom will be back next week!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Chante
I like having an oversized mirror over coach but can you still do that if when you sit on couch the wall you are looking at has a mounted tv. So basically the tv and mirror are across from one another?
Abbey Nolte
Chante,
Yes, you can do this!
RANDALL NORTON
What a great treasure trove of straight-to-the point recommendations! So glad I found your site. You’re the best!
Mandy
Thank you for this informational post! I am furnishing our master bedroom and love the Claudette headboard in white and the Serpentine side tables in Swedish oak. I am a little bit stumped when shopping for dressers and chests to coordinate though. Since those pieces are going to be rather large, would they be considered the anchor pieces rather than the headboard? Should I go with dressers/chests in white/whitewashes to coordinate with the headboard, try to match the Swedish oak sidetables or go rogue with something like black? I am picturing gingham/buffalo check bedding with a coordinating floral in cranberry/cream/black. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Mandy,
I think either a white/whitewashed wood and black or something else entirely could be pretty. I’ve seen metal dressers out there. But since I’m assuming the dresser and headboard won’t be right up against each other, I think white would be fine. And black would work too.
This sounds like it’ll be such a pretty combination!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Debra
Love the podcast and I look forward to it every week. I’ve heard you say your working on using the word “like” less often . Well ladies work harder. Tarin is the worst offender .
Leighton Clark
Are there any rules or guidelines regarding the size/dimensions of a sofa relative to the size/dimensions of the buyer?
Jocelyn g Bacani
I need help into how to decorate an empty wall into our family too with fireplace
Abbey Nolte
Hi Jocelyn,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Don
The Wembley Club Chair is no longer available? Tom will not like this one bit.
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/wembley-club-chair/14782
Michelle
I love the Arugala door in the entryway. Part of the reason I love it is the contrast with the cream walls. Do you know the color on the walls?
Caroline McDonald
Michelle,
Unfortunately we don’t know what white this is. Sorry!
Julianne Mudric
These ideas are so helpful. Even if you don’t use everyone they are a great way to get started.
Thanks.
Abbey Nolte
Thanks, Julianne. So glad you found these tips helpful!
Suzanne
I have light blue buffalo check club chairs and a cream sofa in my hearth room. I also have a black ceramic lamp with bright pink and green small flowers and 2 cranberry glass lamps that I would like to keep. I like bright colors. How can I accent and decorate around these colors?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Suzanne,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Dana
I recently re-upholstered two wingback chairs for my living room with a slightly busy navy blue pattern. I can’t decide if the chairs should have throw pillows on them or not? Would adding a pillow to each be too much with the print? Are the chairs alone enough?
Thank you!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Dana,
It never hurts to add a throw pillow! Just make sure it compliments the piece of furniture it’s going on. We like to stick with solid colored pillows against a busy pattern.
Abbey
Mindy Gray
I’m so tickled that Hatchimals made it into the show notes !!
Connie Cee
Look thru this advertisement, how do you order that blue sectional? Poor navigation in this website, not user friendly at all!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Connie,
I’m sorry to hear that. That is our Roswell Sectional shown in Queens Velvet Teal. You can shop through this link.
Abbey
Bonnie
Thanks Patricia, Needed info on how to choose lampshades for my lamps. Thank you so very much for walking me through the process. Look forward to learning the rule of thumb on other issues. Thanks again!
Shibank kumar
I need sofa fabric
jane
I have the Paisley Ramagh Gray Pier 1 curtains in my family room which is open to my kitchen. I would like to cover my valences over the window and door in my kitchen with the Robert Allen Teague Dwell Studios gold fabric. I am not too sure if the patterns would work together, the rooms are separate but you can still see the family room from the kitchen. Do you think this would be too much?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Jane,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
rachelle randall
Hello,
I painted my family room a rich red and mustard. I think the room is stunning! However, I am not sure what colors to paint the adjouning rooms…the living room and the kitchen. As I understand color cohension, I need to incorporate a balance of warm and cool colors. Please help!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Rachelle,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Val
How big a wreath for hanging on windows? I have two front windows, each 50″ wide. Could I put a 48″ wreath on them, or will it look too big?
Caroline McDonald
Hi Val,
Thanks for your question. I think it’s just a matter of preference. A 48″ wreath on a 50″ window will definitely be big but it’ll look dramatic and impactful! As long as the wreath isn’t larger than the window, I think it’s just a question of personal preference. Good luck!
Caroline
Arabella Davies
Hi Caroline, I didn’t realise there were so many rules! But they make sense. I need to coordinate my dining area a bit better it seems!
Caroline McDonald
Arabella,
Think of them as guidelines not rules! This is just a way to help if you’re having trouble deciding, but certainly shouldn’t limit you buying something you love. Best of luck!
Arabella Davies
Thanks for the article Caroline. I’ve been wondering how to style my upgraded living room, very useful to know about textures. I like the idea of the ottoman style coffee table. I hadn’t seen those before.
D WINKe
love this website with inspiration pictures and teaching us how to decorate!
Debbie Richardson
I own a 1857 Regency Cottage. I would like to put a wreath on each of two french doors/windows which are 4 feet wide . The glass area is 42 inch wide. These flank either sides of front door. What size of wreat should I use.
Abbey Nolte
Debbie,
Just choose a size that isn’t larger than the doors, probably 2-3 inches of space on each side of the wreath to the end of the door.
Thomas A Jackson
It would be great if she can list where one could find some of the furniture in the pictures.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Thomas,
All of the furniture can be found on our site.
Trella
I need some help laying out my kid friendly living room. It is a 24×24 front door leading into the kitchen.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Trella,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Meribeth
Karen,
In my experience gardening in the South, bulbs are planted in the fall and seeds are sown in the spring. I think you’ll find that the plants that are sprouting now will die at the first frost and will not have had time to flower and produce seeds to re-seed your cutting garden.
P.S. The G at the end of a word is silent. For instance, the word hang is not pronounced, “hanguh”. Love the show, but that drives me insane.
Meribeth
Caroline McDonald
Hi Meribeth!
I’ll send this note about bulbs and seeds to Karen. Thanks for listening and for leaving a comment.
We always love feedback, so any insight you have to make the show better is appreciated.
Caroline
Carole
We have double front doors 8ftx30” painted medium to dark grey with a lot of glass..wood is at the bottom of door..it is sectioned off into 4 large panes..what size wreath should I use..
Abbey Nolte
Carole,
Just choose a size that isn’t larger than the doors, probably 2-3 inches of space on each side of the wreath to the end of the door.
sabrina morgan
Hi, I was trying to find the white color in the November 2019 catalog…..can you tell me the color please?
Thanks so much!
Abbey Nolte
Sabrina,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Amy
Do you happen to know where the four feather prints were purchased? I’ve been trying to find bird art for above our couch for three years and can’t find the “one.” I LOVE the set of four feather prints and the frames they are in. Thanks!
Amy
Abbey Nolte
Hi Amy,
Unfortunately we no longer carry that artwork, but we do have other bird art options on our site.
Hope that helps!
Abbey
Carol
I’m installing my 24 inch towel bar over the toilet. No where else to put it. Does this make sense?
Mary Jo Richard
Mary Jo
Hi I would like to hang 3 wreaths on my 36 in wide door attached by ribbon and letters monogram with the letters JOY attached to center of each what size wreaths should I get and what size monogram letters they are done in a vine monogram
Angie
Hi,
The blog on Caitlin Covington’s living room, what fabrics and colors were used on the Sofia settee and the ottomans?
Thank you.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Angie,
The base fabric of the settee and chairs is Queens Velvet Snow and the backside is Stockton Cream. The ottomans are in Queens Velvet Gray.
Hope that helps!
Abbey
Linda Whatley
I have paneling in my family room that I painted believeable buff from Sherwin Williams. My family room is small I only have a loveseat, chair, and Tv in it but it look crowded. I need some help. I saw the room on the website with the paneling that looked whitewashed, and I liked it.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Linda,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Kadreana
Thanks so much for this. I really like the colors and styles selected. I now have a idea of how to decorate my dinning and living room with colors. Happy!!!!
Brooke
Loved this podcast. Eddie was fantastic, as always. I like occasionally having guests who can discuss both design and entertaining. His advice was incredibly useful.
Caroline McDonald
Thanks for listening, Brooke. So glad you enjoyed the show!
Lucinda
Could you make this part 1 of a series with Eddie! Seriously I love all of his ideas! And yes when you love to entertain with a little flair it seems nobody reciprocates! Hello – just have people over and order a pizza!
Caroline McDonald
So glad you agree. Yes! Start simple and then build as you get more comfortable. Clearly Eddie is a seasoned pro! We love hearing that you enjoyed the show, so thanks for listening!
Sharon
My Family room sofa has only four pillows on it. When people sit down they start looking for a place to put the pillows which usually wind up on the floor. They are not huge pillows just decorative pillows and only four. What are your suggestions? My sofa is normal size, my pillows are normal size and my friends are normal size! But I hate to see them wind up on the floor and a basket seems to suggest I didn’t mean for you to use them!
Caroline McDonald
Hmm, that’s tricky. Do you have down inserts in your pillow or foam inserts? Sometimes I think the foam inserts don’t give as much when you sit against them so they feel more intrusive. Down inserts kind of mold to your body, so they’re more comfortable. That’s my first thought.
My second idea is to maybe edit down to 2 pillows on the sofa, and move the other two elsewhere in the room. Then, see whether people still move them?
I’ll think on it some more thought!
Sharon
BBQ dilemma keeping food hot.
Invest in a cordless serving/heating tray. Mine keeps food warm for several hours and Can hardly be seen once the serving dish is put on it.
Caroline McDonald
Well, gosh Sharon, where were you weeks ago when I needed this tip??? Only kidding.
But truly, that is GENIUS!!
Sarah
This podcast is my motivation to run the trail today! I’m saving it until I get out there. Love Eddie Ross! Thanks for so many great interviews!
Caroline McDonald
So glad to hear it, Sarah. Eddie is great. We loved catching up with him!
Quita Hill
I love the top picture with the Sunlit Stroll canvas. I have purchased the exact dining chairs shown in that picture. Would you happen to know the color of the paint in that dining room? I’m wanting to mimic almost everything in that dining room.
Quita
Abbey Nolte
Hi Quita,
That is Sherwin Williams Meadow Trail #7737.
Abbey
Becky
I just got the Ballard catalog (Oct’19) today and enjoyed drooling over the pages. What paint color is used on the wall with the Sunlit Stroll artwork in the “No. 7 Art” section?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Becky,
That is Sherwin Williams Meadow Trail #7737.
Abbey
Tripp
Since no word for it currently exists, i have taken it upon myself to create a name for three or more pillows on a bed…..that would be a “plethora of pillows”! Thank you very much….
Covemaven
So glad to see another great seasonal post. I love the rug you used in both photo #1 and photo #6. Can you tell me the name of it? Thanks so much, and keep those decorating articles coming. As much as I enjoy the podcasts, I’m much more of a visual learner, so for me, the articles with photos are very helpful.
Abbey Nolte
Unfortunately we no longer sell that rug but here are some similar options: Mathison Rug, Asher Rug, Decarlo Rug. So glad you are enjoying the posts. Thanks for reading!
Chris
Could you tell the color and maker of the paint in the third picture? It’s the blueish color.
Thanks
Chris
Abbey Nolte
Chris,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Angela La Voie Kljunich
What is the paint color, please, on pgs. 68-69 in the September catalogue?
Abbey Nolte
Angela,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Tej
I have dining area 12 by 12 and planning to buy 60 x 40 or 72 x 40 rectangle dinning table.
I like the rectangle chandelier which had width/diameter is 13″ and length 33″.
Is 13″ x 33″ chandelier is good fit or should I go with smaller 13″ x 21″?
Please advise.
Thanks,
Tej
Abbey Nolte
Hi Tej,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Debbie
The cheapest answer is to cut off the drywall on the wall side of the two small arches to give a wider doorway. Remove the desks and dog bowls etc from that pathway. They make you veer to the left .
Diane Dyhan
Thank you for this article as it really has very valid points especially for down sizing couples who haven’t purchased new furniture and rugs in quite some time. It is so important to leave enough space in between swivel chairs!!! So many people make this mistake when choosing swivels for their gathering rooms.
Covemaven
It’s always great to see Patricia Palermo’s posts. She has been a great help in my design journey and has gotten me to push beyond my comfort level.
Sandy
I have a chest of which the bottom part is mirrored, but also has some wood detailing in it. So it is not a complete mirror. Currently I have a picture hanging above it, but am wondering if I can hang a mirror above it instead? What would your advice be about that?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Sandy,
They can definitely go together, I would just try to bring in lots of different types of textures in your accessories and maybe your lighting? So add a lamp with a color or interesting texture (not shiny/reflective) then something wooden as an accessory. Just try to bring in some contrast to help break it up. But what a great question!
jamescrawford
thank you very much for this post 🙂 does anyone know where I can buy frames at a very affordable price? Need a lot of white frames and black frames of different sizes for my interior.
thanks in advance
Holli Amato
Hello, I have a 24″ overhang on my marble island and my cabinetmaker has added two legs and a wooden table skirt to wrap around the overhang for that custom look. Do I take that into account when measuring for counter stools? From the floor to the bottom of the skirt is 31″, but to the counter is 36″. What do I do here? Thanks for your help!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Holli,
This is a tricky one. I would definitely try counter first because it’ll be the most appropriate for your overall island height. You may run into an issue with your knees bumping into the apron. Try stacking some books onto a chair to the appropriate height and test it against your island!
Valerie
Can you tell me the wall color on page 65 of the Sept issue?
Thanks!
Abbey Nolte
Valerie,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Meredith
I’m catching up on episodes in the archives and loved this one! Caroline, can you tell me where you got the frames for your nursery prints? The setup is so adorable and I’d love to do something similar!
Caroline McDonald
I got them on Amazon, but I cannot for the life of me find the link!
Carie Austin
On page 10 of the September catalog is a pretty cabinet called the Salerno Console. I would love to know what white color the cabinet is painted… or one that is comparable!
Abbey Nolte
Carie,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Rachel
Could you please tell me the paint color used in the June catalog on pages 12 and 13? I remodeling my office and this layout and color scheme is serving as my inspiration. I can’t wait to get the Asher Rug! I’m ordering a sample just to make certain of the tones.
Abbey Nolte
Rachel,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck,
Abbey
Mys Donna
These are all inspiring options. I’m drawing something from each and every one. Where, pray tell, might I find that wonderful gated base floor lamp in tip no. 4? Thanks.
Abbey Nolte
That is our Lennon Floor Lamp. So glad you like it!
Lynn
Congratulations! So pleased for you all and my thanks for so many informative, fun podcasts- remember hearing the first one ! Thank you and here is to many more!
Lynn
Erin
Hi! I love love the double duty chair, where can I find it?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Erin,
That is our Custom Tate Upholstered Twin Sleeper with Antique Brass Nailheads. So glad you like it!
Toni Boltin
I’m glad I ran into this info when I did. We will be buying a few new upholstered pieces in the near future which will hopefully last for the duration. I’ll definitely refer to Ballard Designs again. Thank you!
Caroline McDonald
Toni,
We love hearing that! Thanks for reading our post.
Happy decorating!
Caroline
Abby
What is the wall color on page 5 of the August 2019 issue?
Abbey Nolte
Abby,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck!
Shannon R Brown
There are not any links provided. I’ve tried it in safari and Chrome. This is what I get:
Below you’ll find printable place cards, checklists, and other goodies for your home. Simply print at home in your printer, and you’re ready to go!
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Caroline McDonald
Shannon,
We fixed it! Thanks for pointing this out!
Caroline
Bonnie Covington
Hi, just thought you would like know I have a dog the same color and he is a mini golden doodle and I also have the same last name ! I will share mt photos and my Ballad Bedroom . Please advise how I do this , thanks
maria
The black and white low stool and pillows in matching fabric are so pretty. Where do I find them?
Abbey Nolte
That is our Louis XVI Footstool in Randers Black fabric.
Christine
Caroline McDonald, thank you for input. Deciding on the color of my 6” sofa legs. When I said the wood for the legs was a “medium brown”, I should have mentioned it has a little red in it. I have parquet floors (will be purchasing an area rug) and it does pick up one of the wood colors in the parquet . My sales lady still believes I should use the espresso colored legs for a contemporary look, just seems so cold next to my wood floors. Now that you know it’s not just a medium brown color, does this change your mind?
Caroline McDonald
It’s hard to say without seeing photos of your space and the wood swatch itself, but I don’t think there’s really a right or wrong answer. You might also have this sofa for longer than you live in your house. Perhaps you move it to another room or move houses. I wouldn’t worry too much about the chair leg. Pick whichever one you like best!
Leslie
Hi
I listened to this episode the other day and loved it! Phil was very informative about furniture. Please bring him back for more lessons on furniture!
Thanks,
Leslie Polatty
Augusta, GA
Jane
Hi ladies!
I love your podcast! You interviewed my dear old friend/co-worker Fran Keenan… That’s how I found you! I listen to you as I walk my dog every morning. You’re all so fun & inspiring.
I’m intrigued today listening to Matthew Carter. I really want to see what he meant about his clients magazine display. I have several bookshelves in my home that are empty now. I have books on a few but mostly “dustables”!
I do collect several types of magazines. I’m trying to understand what he meant by folding the cover/ displays color?
Hope you can help!
Thanks…
Jane
Caroline McDonald
Jane,
I’m so happy to hear the you like the show and find it inspiring. Also, Fran is fabulous. I’m such a huge fan of hers.
Matthew actually just sent me a photo of his client’s bookshelf, so I’ve added it to this episode’s notes. See above!
Caroline
Shirley Inez Johnson
Hello, got a quick questions for my living room area just above my sofa. Have ordered a round mirror around 3 feet all around. The outside is silver with a bird nest type effect. However, the area will need more mirrors going across the sofa area so I wanting to add one to two smaller mirrors across from the bigger mirrors. So here is my question: is it alright to mix smaller square and rectangle mirrors with the large round one? Also can different framing colors also be used if I cannot find the smaller mirror design I like framed in a silver as well?
Caroline McDonald
Yes, absolutely mix them together! And there isn’t any reason all of the frames have to match. Sounds pretty!
Christine
I will be buying a new sofa (floating) will be a creamy beige with 6” legs. So now the legs are an important wood tone. I know they are showing an espresso color for legs, but would a medium brown leg look out-dated?
Caroline McDonald
Not at all Christine,
It totally depends on your space. You have a few options. You can coordinate the leg to the flooring you have, the other pieces in the room, or just have it work best with the fabric on your sofa.
A medium-brown is definitely not going to look outdated though!
Good luck,
Caroline
Persis Pavri
I’d like to talk about wall murals please.
Elke Wheeler
Oh my goodness, what a fun episode! Congratulations on 100, and here’s to 100 more!
Quick question. I’m fascinated by Karen’s dining room crown molding. I have drapes that my ,other and I made (ok, I described what I wanted, and my mom sewed every stitch). Unfortunately, I had her make them too short (this was before I started listening to y’all). Karen’s crown molding looks like it could solve my problem. Does it go clear to the ceiling or is there a drop from the ceiling to the top of the (what looked like to me the “top’ of the crown molding). Sorry, not trying to be a stalker! But I see so many touches that I just L-O-V-E.
Jan Ogle
I’d love to know the front door color on page 29 of the August 2019 catalogue.
Thank you.
Caroline McDonald
Jan,
It’s Sherwin Williams’ Spiced Cider #7702.
So glad you like it!
Caroline
DAWN INGVARDSEN
I’ve just discovered your website via this article and I’m so happy I did. I’ve found such valuable information as I search for a sofa. The article on fabrics was great, however; I have a question.
In terms of sofa fabric, what might you recommend for a pet that sheds?
Thanks
Abbey Nolte
Hi Dawn,
Microfiber, performance fabrics, and leather are the best fabrics to counter shedding from pets. We also suggest choosing a sofa in a similar color as your pet’s hair.
Chris
Helpful article…Please, what is the color of the beige paint on the wall in the first photo as well as the paint color on the sideboard? Thank you, Chris
Angela Sharp
Can you please tell me if the red chairs in his living room are available for purchase? Thank you. 🙂
Abbey Nolte
Hi Angela,
Those are our Square Back Louis XVI Side Chairs in Ariel Red fabric.
Venkatesh
Hello, hope you are doing well. I have a living room and bedroom with no ceiling lights at all. I am renting this place. What type of lights do you recommend? I have a fire place in my living room (that I wont be using at all), so anything to go with this style? Also, my bedroom has my study table too so anything specific that you recommend?
Thanks in advance
Caroline McDonald
Venkatesh,
Since you’re renting, I’d suggest just add in lots of table lamps! Same thing for your office. A good task light is important for a workspace, but lots of table lamps and floor lamps will help the room feel bright and comfortable.
Good luck!
Laura Perry
Great article! I have been trying to find the Hanging Pins you mentioned (Hanging pins create a look that’s polished from the front — no toothy clasps on your panel — and they move smoothly over your drapery rod.) but I can’t find anyone that sells them. Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
You should be able to find them pretty easily on Amazon. Just search ‘drapery hooks’ or ‘drapery pins.’ Good luck! Glad you found this article helpful 🙂
betsy
I have a red and gold damask sofa. I have painted the walls light grey. Having hard time with getting curtains and carpet to go with it. Any suggestions?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Betsy,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here. Be sure to take good pictures and definitely include photos of the red and gold sofa fabric so they can coordinate with it!
Hope that helps,
Abbey
Phyllis Carter
I’m looking at the blog on Caitlin Covington’s living room . What color is her wall paint, where’d she get her curtains and lastly, the two little art pieces by the window- are those from Ballard!
Thanks. ?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Phyllis,
Her paint color is Sherwin Williams “Versatile Gray”, the curtains are custom-made from us in the Emmeline Gray fabric, and the art is the Petite Sandpipers Art and Petite Fluid Art.
Hope that helps!
Abbey
Lisa
Forgot to make my question clear 😉
Hi!
We could really use your help ASAP! I am hoping we can put a roll top (beautiful – unique), on one side of our white brick fireplace (traditional black gas) – it would stick out about 6 inches, and a butler’s pantry (unique sideboard) on the other side – lake side. It would stick out about an inch maybe. (The outside of the home is a kind of beachy modern design with hardy shingles in cobbletstone colour.)
Can these 2 antiques “frame” our fireplace? I would send a picture, but I don’t see where to upload it.
Thanks in advance 🙂
Lisa
Abbey Nolte
Hi Lisa,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Alexandra
Hello, I’m curious what paint color was used on the walls in the July 2019 catalog, pages 90-91. Thank you!
Abbey Nolte
Alexandra,
Unfortunately I don’t have information on the paint. I would suggest showing this picture at the paint store and they can match it for you.
Best of luck!
Clarissa
I have a 12ft x 12ft dining area which is in same room as my kitchen. My kitchen is white shaker-style cabinets and gray quartz. My floor is an “urban loft” from Lumber Liquidators, vinyl flooring, different wood colors. I don’t know what type of dining table to purchase. I’m lost. Please help.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Clarissa,
We typically suggest getting a round dining table in a square living room as it just usually makes the most sense spatially. In terms of finish, I would choose maybe a whitewash or graywash table to bridge the white cabinetry with the wood floors. Then add in color and softness with your drapery, rug, chandelier, etc. Good luck!
Abbey
Judith Phillips
It would be very helpful if “small” were defined by (square) footage. Planning with a range of footage in mind is key when shopping for furniture pieces.
Lois
Super easy to live with! We have loved the flat finish and it has held up really well (so far) to our 2 big dogs and toddler 🙂 there’s a couple things with Rubio that are different as far as cleaning, but for us I think it was a better option than polyurethane. But it’s totally preference! I’ve just always loved the look of natural floors – and it definitely brightens up the space.
Tiffany mitchell
Id like to get some ideas or tips on how to decorate living room bookcases.i try to make it look non cluttery and elegant but am not having any luck..??
Abbey Nolte
Hi Tiffany,
We actually have a couple other posts on styling bookshelves here & here. Hope that helps!
Abbey
TANYA
I really enjoyed this website!!! Thank you
Sarah
I’d love any info about the living room pillows, and the fabric throws over the matching wing chairs. Thanks!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Sarah,
I’m sorry I don’t have any info about the throws or pillows.
Abbey
Doris A Baker
I have a dining room and kitchen island very close together. What kind of lights would look great and not overcrowd the area? Need lights for both areas.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Doris,
We suggest something clear or glass. Here are a few options: Fiona Glass Pendant, Franklin Glass Pendant, Vera Glass Jug Pendant.
Abbey
Viet Hwang
Can someone share the size of these runners and can I purchase them?
Kathy Snyderwine
I like the beige stripe chair in the photo. Where can I purchase the chair?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Kathy,
That is our Elsie Swivel Glider Club Chair in Dover Linen. You can purchase it here.
Abbey
Lois
Hi! Just started listening to the podcast and really enjoying listening during my drive into work! Live in Charlotte and we have a Ballard, but have never been! Will have to pop in 🙂 Just wanted to comment to whoever said they are refinishing their red oak floors to natural because we just did that and love it 🙂 Actually applied a product called rubio monocoat in smoke as the finish, to take away some of the pink in red oak, but otherwise looks very natural. We love it! Good luck!
Caroline McDonald
Oh my gosh, Lois. Thank you for the comment. I was actually talking to my flooring guy about the Rubio! I’m super interested in it and considered it but may just go with a matte finish on top. Mostly just because once they sanded the flooring it’s actually white oak and so pretty. I’m glad you like it though. Is the natural/light floor easy to live with? This just makes me feel so much more confident about the choice!
So glad you’re listening!
Caroline
Donna Wright
Where can I get the media cabinet pictured?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Donna,
That is our Tuscan 4-Piece Media Set. So glad you like it!
Abbey
Sandra Carawan
I’m in a new home and in the dining area I have painted the walls yellow and have set down a floor rug (Laurent Collection, Design: Kubala), which is predominantly teal with blends of magenta, light orange and white. I am not sure what color of curtains to purchase. At first, I was thinking of a deeper yellow with a mixture of blue floral pattern, but I think that is going to clash. Now I’m just wondering about going with white. Thank you for any suggestions.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Sandra,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Daniella
My mother was born on the Amalfi coast and immigrated to America when she was 10. Much of our family still is there and my husband and I were actually married there ten years ago. My dream is to recreate this feel in my 1400sf Southern California 1950’s bungalow. The combination of mid century modern mixed with painted ceramics, and natural wood windows and doors combined with some downright gaudy gold mirrors and rod iron comforts me and makes me feel as though I am exactly where I need to be. However, I am struggling to pull this look together. I would love if you could expand on this design style and offer some options ideas for the bathrooms, living room furniture and kitchen.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Daniella,
Thank you your question! We love the Amalfi Coast style and we will keep your suggestions in mind for upcoming posts. In the meantime, we have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. Simply upload images of your room and your question here and they will help you!
Abbey
Anna
Did I miss an article? I’m looking for information on how to properly space and or stagger floating shelves on recessed wall on both sides of fireplace with both mantle and large tv above the mantle. There are built in benches on both sides of recessed wall. The wooden shelves are not the full size of the recessed wall (shelf is 36” wall is 64”) due to an opening on one of the adjacent walls we can’t but up the shelf on that side… would I go higher than the tv? Start at the top? Start at the mantle? Due to size is it best to stagger? Unfortunately, these shelves are real wood, heavy and are going up on a wall covered in pine- think shiplap but distressed so I’m trying to get it right- the first time- which is not typically how I roll. 😉
Abbey Nolte
Hi Anna,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Pam
Love the sofa color and fabric. Could you tell me where it is from and the name of color and fabric? Such a beautiful home!
Thanks!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Pam,
Unfortunately I don’t have any information about the sofa. I’m sorry!
Abbey
Brooke
Hi Meribeth
We agree with Caroline! Your home is beautiful, and we should have started our discussion with that statement. Steve and I were in problem solving mode and knew we were short on time so we focused on your request for small changes.
Xo
Brooke
Meribeth
Will do, Caroline. Thanks for the pep talk!
Meribeth
Thank you for featuring my decorating dilemma, ladies. I’m definitely going to implement the Giannettis’ suggestions for; stronger pops of color, incorporating larger pieces on the book shelves, larger rugs, and a trough of moss and a pair of tall lamps behind the sofa.
I like the idea of painting my kitchen cabinets (I’ve seen some beautiful emerald green examples by Farrow and Ball) but I worry that colored cabinets might be a passing trend.
I have to say that it was a little difficult to hear their assessment though. I mean, ouch! They definitely had nothing nice to say about my home.
Caroline McDonald
Meribeth,
Do not get discouraged! I actually look at it from the flipside — their only suggestions were finishing touches (accessories, rugs, and adding color). All of your anchor pieces are stylish and functional, and you’ve done a great job of the most challenging part of the decorating process! All you need are final touches to complete the space!
Everyone struggles with these same challenges — I know I certainly do! You have a beautiful home as is, these are just suggestions to take it to the next level!
Thank you for listening. Please send us photos of any changes you make.
Caroline
Maritza
I have been wanting to buy furniture for my family room but I can’t find the way of knowing where to put what and what style of sofas to buy. I’ve always wanted a sectional but because of the way this room is positioned I think this type of sofa will block the flow to the room. I wish there was an option to send you a picture so that you have an idea of what I’m talking about.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Martiza,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. You can upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Abbey Nolte
Hi Martiza,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. You can upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Emerson
When you walk into my apartment the first thing you see is a wall at the end of my hallway. I’d like to put a picture there. Using the .57 rule for width I’ll need something 25″s wide but what vertical size should I be looking for? It’s something like 8′ 6″ inches floor to ceiling.
Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Emerson,
I’m so glad you’re finding this article helpful. The vertical size isn’t as important unless it’s hanging over a piece of furniture. Focus on the width of the wall.
It sounds like you’re on the right track!
Good luck.
Linda Lena
I have a real dilemma!
We are moving to the East Coast to our new home. I want to incorporate our 3 seater high back yellow leather sofa in front of the living room window but I also need to work in a sectional sofa ( which i still need to purchase) along with an over sized wing chair that I also have.
How do you arrange a sectional sofa, and a non sectional sofa and wing chair in the same room so that it balances and looks cozy.
I would prefer the sectional to face the fireplace .
Would really appreciate your advice:)
Abbey Nolte
Hi Linda,
We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemmas. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Alyce Byrne
I have a small living room and my two chairs have ottomans. I don’t think a coffee table will work.
Caroline McDonald
Alyce,
Small living rooms are always a problem, but I have a few options for you! One way to squeeze something into the center of the living area would be to use two small side tables in the center like a coffee table. Two garden seats could work or a trio of tables like Suzanne Kasler’s <a href="https://www.ballarddesigns.com/suzanne-kasler-metal-accent-tables/362700"accent table. Another idea is to try and find a coffee table that one of your ottomans can nest under when you aren’t using it. That way it can tuck away when you’re entertaining!
The main thing to remember is just that you serve the purpose of a coffee table, even if you use smaller surfaces like garden seats!
Best of luck,
Caroline
Fran
I have a small space where I want to put a chair on either side of a window. The chairs style would be exactly the same, but the fabrics would be related, in color but different patterns. Would that look stupid?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Fran,
That’s not stupid at all, we love mixing patterns!
Abbey
Covemaven
I’d love to know a little background about Abbey Nolte. I see she’s been credited with some of these posts lately, and I like her fresh outlook!
Abbey Nolte
Thanks so much for your comment! I’m new to the Ballard team but I have always had a love for decorating and design. Thanks for reading!
Abbey
Heather L.
Hey! I was wondering if you have any information on the changing table in Camille’s nursery? I love this nursery style and have been looking for a changing dresser. Thank you!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Heather,
Unfortunately I don’t have any information about the changing table. I’m sorry!
Abbey
lyn
Any chance you could refrain from using the phrase “I feel like” when interviewing. It’s over used and distracting in every podcast.
Caroline McDonald
Lyn,
I’ll do my best. I’m not sure I even realize I’m saying it, but I bet I’ll notice now.
Caroline
Phyllis Carter
I love your color inspiration for painting rooms. I have a north facing bedroom that get little to no light. Directly behind it is a bathroom painted SW Tame Teal. The bedroom has white furniture with a hint of gray on the top surface. Can you suggest a bedroom color that would brighten the bedroom a little and compliment the bathroom?
Thanks.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Phyllis,
We have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your decorating dilemma. Simply upload images of your room and your question here.
Abbey
Meribeth
I liked her suggestion to group furniture in an open concept room as if there were walls dividing the space. I also liked the imagery of a rug being an island that is saving the lives of the furniture that sit on it.
I’d love a link to a source for the lighted bookends she mentioned. What a great idea! The only ones I could find were industrial/steampunk Edison bulb bookends on Etsy.
Lindsey king
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/MA18_paint_sw_12-1.jpg
The picture for alabaster with the greenish hutch with the black mirror window frame thing over it could I find out what color the hutch is? I can’t find that information.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Lindsey,
That is our Dehaviland 2-Drawer Console Table in Gray. Hope that helps!
Abbey
KACEY
WOW. I could listen to Susan all day. What a WEALTH of knowledge!!! MORE PLEASE!
Caroline McDonald
Kacey,
She was amazing wasn’t she? So glad you enjoyed it!
Caroline
Nita Elrod
Good
Missy Ernest
I love the pendant lights we bought from you and look forward to more purchases. We are in the process of starting to build a new home and I’m sure we will be looking at Ballard Design. Thank You, Missy
Colleen
Try faux animal heads painted different color schemes . Or stained glass pieces, like the kind you find at estate sale and antiques stores. A long piece of kimono fabric would be gorgeous to. Hope I was able to help ☺️.
ShanTi
These were good. What about rules regarding upright vs dropping or rules for stems?
Samma
I was so upset when Cottage Living shuttered! Loved this episode- I have so many magazine tears of Fran’s work from old Southern Livings and Cottage Living.
Caroline McDonald
Samma,
Ditto! Cottage Living was amazing and I miss it too. I’m so glad enjoyed the show. Thanks for listening!
Caroline
Melanie
Where can I find the red/cream chevron woven rug in the first picture?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Melanie,
Unfortunately, we no longer carry this rug.
Abbey
Lisa Smith
Hi,
I have tried to order the driftwood toned Marguerite Bar Stools from Ballard. I called them this morning, they say they don’t offer them in a driftwood color. It only shows a brown and a white online. Could you give me some insight about where and how you got these?
Thank you
Lisa Smith
Caroline McDonald
Lisa,
I’m so sorry. Unfortunately, the driftwood color has been discontinued! We still have Distressed Oak and White available, so maybe one of them could work! Find them here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/marguerite-stools/413096
Good luck!
Bev
Incredible episode! So educational. Thanks to all of you for getting such great guests.
Caroline McDonald
Thanks, Bev! So glad you enjoyed it.
Rosemary Onderko
What can I hang above a 52″ Tv that is on a furniture TV stand the wall behind TV is at least 12 feet high am at aloss as to what to put there
Abbey Nolte
Rosemary,
Thank you so much for your question. We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out what to hang above your TV. Simply upload images of your room and your question here, and one of our designers will reach out to you.
Abbey
Nosson Elchanan Eliyahu Klein
Normally I find these comments irrelevant or not written properly./ But I enjoyed yours
Sarah
I love this look! I used to shy away from jewel tones, but lately I’ve been reaching for them over and over. Not sure if they’re just becoming more popular or if I’m just getting bolder as I get older! 🙂
Elke Wheeler
This may have been my favorite episode so far. Very delightful guest. (He could have his own adventure show on Netflix!). Great to hear all the hosts updates (maybe a YouTube video series should be in the works?)