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- Decorating
- Decorating Dilemmas
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- Featured
- Get the Look
- How To
- Learn
- Podcast
- Popular Searches
- Style Tip
- Uncategorized
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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.
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
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
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
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?)
Caroline McDonald
Elke,
Thank you so much for commenting, and I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed the show! We will definitely take your video series idea into account, and actually we have talked about it! Our biggest hurdle right now is just finding the time, but stay tuned!
Caroline
Kimble Gaebler
My wicker sofa set was flooded during Harvey. The wicker furniture survived, but not the cushions. The bottom cushions are larger than any I see in stores or online (31.5″ x 31.5″) so I guess I will have to find a seamstress to make new slipcovers as you have suggested in prior posts. Any suggestions on where I could find the square foam pads of at least 4″ thickness?
Virginia
Hello,
I have just bought a new house, and am trying to figure out what kind of wood frame bed would suit my bedroom.
The floors are a light cherry wood. Extra shiny.
The bed I’d like to buy is a flat birch.
Would this work?
Many thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Virginia,
Thank you so much for your question. We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out the perfect bed for your room. Simply upload images of your room and your question here, and one of our designers will reach out to you.
Caroline
Suzi
Hey Ladies! I love, love,love , your podcast! While I enjoy hearing from all your guests, I especially like hearing Trials and Triumphs from the three of you, and I have really missed those lately. Hopefully they will return? Thanks for all the information and ideas. Keep up the great work!
Warmest regards,
Suzi W.
Morganton, NC
Caroline McDonald
Suzi,
Thank you so much for your comment and for listening! Don’t worry, Trials & Triumphs aren’t gone forever. We were just taking a little break until we had better updates to share. We’re doing a round of Trials & Triumphs in next week’s episode!
Caroline
Victor
Yeah these are some of the most genuine mistakes a lot of people make. Recently one of my friend were arranging the furniture in his living room but not living the space between the wall and furniture.
He was putting the furniture against the wall and then I suggested him to get some space between the wall and furniture so that the kids can play and can move freely. I’m glad you pointed out these mistakes so amazingly. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Brenda Shively
Do you carry the console table in picture #4?
Caroline McDonald
Brenda,
That’s our Tibet Console table. So glad you like it. Thanks for reading!
Caroline
Rachel
I love the striped sofa with chaise in the first two pictures! Where can I find it? Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Rachel,
That’s our Eton Sectional in Ticking Stripe black. So glad you like it.
Caroline
DORRIE
I LOVE THE CATALOGS THAT BALLARD DESIGNS SEND….I HAVE KEPT EVERYONE,,,THEY ARE MY GO-TO INSPIRATIONS WHEN I DECIDE TO DO A LITTLE FIXIN’-UP…..FINE CLASSIC QUALITY NEVER IS DATED.
Gail Murphy
Could you tell me where the lamps on the entryway console table are from?
Caroline McDonald
Gail,
These are vintage lamps Natalie found at an antique market. I’m sorry I don’t have any more info about them!
Caroline
Janet Hager
have a small bathroom being remodeled, bathtub no shower 18 inches of tile around all three sides of tub on walls. want to place towel rack on foot of tub. How far above to install it for bath towel. Also want to place a robe hook near tub where should be best place to put that. Please answer so as possible. Than you
Abbey Nolte
Janet,
Thank you so much for your question. We actually have a team of interior designers who would love to help you figure out your bathroom remodel. Simply upload images of your room and your question here, and one of our designers will reach out to you.
Abbey
Karen
Is the pink upholstered chair available? It was what made me click!
Caroline McDonald
Karen,
This is our Regency Chair in Suzanne Kasler’s Peony Pink Linen.
Glad you like it!
Caroline
Alejandra
Can you please tell me where I can find the bookshelf featured ? Ty!
Abbey Nolte
Hi Alejandra,
That is our Toulouse Tall Bookcase!
Abbey
Dianne Plourde
Very practical hints in every category that you offer. Thank you!
joelle
Please show a wood toned kitchen and not just white and grey cabinetry. I need some inspiration! Thanks!
Lorraine McDonald
lovely lovely lovely! Could you drop me a line re the kitchen bar stools…where I can order them. Thank you so much and a job well done!
Mino Pinna
Very good.
Meribeth
Phil is my favorite guest so far. I learned so much. I too was getting annoyed by the interruptions.
Covemaven
I love Patricia Palermo’s posts! She gives such practical advice for me to apply in my own home. Thank you Patricia! You never disappoint.
Marion Shields
I’m trying to find out about the glass lamp pictured on page 4 of the latest catalog. Can you tell me who makes it? Thanks!
Yaso
Hello,
I have a dark brown wood floor in the children’s bedroom. I wonder if it would be ok to buy white bedroom furniture for them.
I also wonder if I should use matching fabric colors for the dining chairs and the sofa in the living area, given that they are all in one open space.
Finally , I would like to know if it would be fine to mix golden metal coffee tables with a dining table and a buffet made of dark brown and light brown wood.
Thank you
Abbey Nolte
Yaso,
Thank you so much for your question. 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, and one of our designers will reach out to you.
Abbey
Natalie
If the pictures could enlarge when we click on them, that would be wonderful!
Eileen Moxley
I purchased a Parsons Chair Slipcover in 2015 or 2016. I am not sure of the color. I thought it was teal. The tag reads #100123727 & DL 1506.
It is 88% Cotton, 12% Polyester. I was living in San Antonio when I purchased it. Do you still carry the color in the same material?
Abbey Nolte
Hi Eileen,
If you go to our Parsons Chair Slipcover page you will be able to see all the fabrics we currently carry for the chair!
Hope that helps!
Abbey
Ash
Years later and the house is still beautiful! Truly fits on the Virginia landscape and great representation of a Virginia stone home.
Beauty ages well and folks like Melinda just get more sour! To southern charm!
Ellen
Caroline,
This was so informative! Thanks for the straight-to-the-point, well-organized primer on lighting, especially the LED / incandescent table!
Julie
Hi, I just hung my velvet panels yesterday. Love the color, but they are wrinkled! Also, the edge going down the panel isn’t creased. Meaning that the line where the lining meets the velvet (on the back side) meanders. Is steaming my only option?
Caroline McDonald
Julie,
You’ll definitely get the best result with steaming, so I’d definitely suggest that. You could iron them on the steam setting from behind. Just be careful getting to much heat on the fabric.
Good luck!
Stephanie Mattson
Hi,
I am wondering what the name of the color of the navy blue cabinets shown?
Looking for the perfect blue and that looks like it!😊
Anne
Hello, Love your site!!
Question: I have grey walls in my living room. I want to create a wall above the sofa of family pictures? Can I use a variety of frames, such as dark oak, light oak, etc?
Thanks so much.
Caroline McDonald
Yes definitely! A mix of wood frames shouldn’t be a problem, especially since all of the photos will be family photos. The subject matter will link them together.
Caroline McDonald
Hi Samma,
You’re right, sometimes it’s tricky to answer the question with previous owners’ furniture. We were commenting on the previous owners furniture only in the context that it’ll help the current owner with what NOT to do. Plus, our main issue here was with the way this room was laid out. Does that answer your question?
Thank you for listening though and for leaving your feedback! We will take this to heart and focus less on the layout and maybe more style questions.
Caroline
Kelsey Thompson
Where can I order striped couch?
Abbey Nolte
Kelsey,
That’s our Eton Sectional in Ticking Stripe black. So glad you like it.
Abbey
Samma
Hi! Love the podcast- quick question! Sometimes I wonder if the listener questions described on the website match the podcast. For example, this episode questions states that it’s the previous owners’ furniture, but the response debates the merits of her furniture. Just making sure I’m getting the right pics! Thanks so much! I look forward to each designer and am so glad new episodes drop weekly now!
jane
I am trying to get ideas for dining chairs and a sideboard to go with medium oak can you help please
Abbey Nolte
Hi Jane,
Thank you so much for your question. 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
Covemaven
I have found your Room Planner an amazing tool for trying out options before I start moving the furniture! (for those looking for it, scroll down to the bottom of the page under “free resources” or copy and paste this link: https://ballarddesigns.icovia.com/icovia.aspx).
For me, getting the floor plan right first is key; if you have something in the wrong location, your pieces are out of scale or your room is an awkward layout, this tool will help you visualize your plan before you commit. Ballard has an awesome fabric sample program…so plan, move and pin your samples to your furniture to “try it on”. If you want a bigger sample for visualization, invest in a yard. It’s worth it! Also, remember to check the “double rub” count–higher double rubs for hard working seating pieces, while lower double rubs will suffice for toss pillows and curtains.
Ella Bracy
I would love to see black and white tile or linoleum floors come back!
Bizy Bee
Love all the ideas featured in the article! Very inspiring!!
Adrienne
Can you please tell me where I can find the entry way table in photo #9? It is everything I’ve ever wanted!
Abbey Nolte
Adrienne,
That is our Miles Redd Kent Console Table. Thanks for reading!
Abbey
JEAN VICINO
YOU HAVE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THINGS I WISH I COULD AFFORD TO BUY EVERYTHING. I AM PAINTING MY LIVING ROOM NOW AND GOT SO MANY GOOD IDEAS. I LOVE WHITE AND LIKE TO KEEP MY WHOLE HOSE THAT COLOR SO I CHANGE CHANGE DECORATION. GOT SOME AWESOM IDEAS THANK YOU
Julia Maddux
I will like to have some advice over a Blank wall decoration!
Thanks
Cheryl Montagna
LOVE the green! I know blue has been the hot color, especially with the current gray trend but green has always been my favorite accent color of choice! Beautiful!
Jill Kalman
Fantastic episode! I adore Thom and Carson and of course – Ballard!!!
Onita Cannon
What type of rug should be used under a round table with 4 chairs in a breakfast area?
Caroline McDonald
A large rug that extends at least 36 inches past the edges of the table should be fine. You could also use a large round rug which would look great with the round table. That 36″ rule still applies though!
Good luck!
Patricia Lewis
Can you tell me which throw pillows were used in the Black, White and Woven Bed? In particular the Black one. Also what size pillow sham was used for the Liliana Ikat.
Caroline McDonald
That’s our Bridget Velvet pillow! You can find it here.
There are also Noir pillows on this bed. Found here.
So glad you like them!
Carolyu Samuelson
I’m looking forward to the podcast being loaded. It appears it isn’t available to be heard.
Kelly G Race
Hi! First, I would like to say how much I love your podcast! I look forward to every episode and feel like I learn something. I am an engineer by profession, but love all things home and decorating as a hobby. I love Ballard’s intent of bringing good design to the masses. I have never commented on a blog post or podcast before, but I feel like I must here. I could not bring myself to finish Ellen O’Neill’s podcast. She elevated the choice of color of the year to something way more serious than it is. To talk about “truth” when referring to an opinion of color of the year is ridiculous and sounds so self important and out of touch. Also, she related everything to her obviously strong opinions about politics. If I wanted to listen to a podcast about politics, I would not be choosing a How to Decorate podcast. All of her examples seemed very elitist and did not, in my opinion, fit Ballard’s brand. I will not go on and on. Shame on me for not leaving a comment on all of the many podcasts that I have listened to and loved! It is very rare for me to leave any feedback, especially negative, but this one was over the top. Thank you for all the entertaining and educational content you produce. Best wishes in 2019!
Kay
I love How to Decorate, I love Ballard.
But please, discourage your guests from using the podcast as a platform for their political views.
Knowing that the last two Color of the Year color choices were influenced by political climate is disgusting. So much good information tainted by negativity. Come on girls, count your blessings and teach us how to make a happy home.
pat snyder
This is such great information. Using the very dull and poor lighting of LEDs is a problem.
Pat
Patricia Lewis
Where do I find the Decor on the Bedside Tables on the Black, White and Woven Picture?
Caroline McDonald
We don’t have that one anymore. I’m so sorry!
Leaetta Rushing
I love this Onyx and Emerald table scapes very calming and elegant great ideas thanks for sharing
Caroline McDonald
Thank you so much, Leaetta!
Jessica Auld
Hi! I am in love with the dark grey bedside table!! Where can i get one?
Caroline McDonald
Jessica,
That is our Sidney Open Side Table. So glad you like it!
Natalia
Overall, these are fine cookies, but I am not sure if I bake them again. I’ve never baked with almond paste before, but the cookies with it turned out somewhat chewy, not the texture that I’d anticipated according to the pictures. Also, I don’t know if there are different kinds of almond paste out there, but the one I had already had sugar in it (which I hadn’t checked for before mixing the ingredients), and I found that adding additional cup of sugar was too much. The cookies do have a wonderful almond-vanilla-citrusy flavor to them but they were too sweet, which overpowered other flavors. For the same reason, I omitted sprinkling them with even more powdered sugar.
If I decide to bake them again, I’ll add half a cup of sugar, if the almond paste already has sugar in it.
Karen h
I just put in a new kitchen and bathroom. Always going to the Ballard catolog and website for inspiration. Purchased pictures, kitchen table and chairs towels and shams and more. I couldn’t of done without Ballard. Waiting for another picture to be sent. Always reading the decorative ideas on line. Happy holidays karen h of Huntington
Nelle Somerville
Hey y’all,
I’m northern born and southern bred here to share with Caroline that this dimmer switch for her tree is the way to go for her flocked tree. It’s the most fun to pretend with kids that they can blow out the tree by hiding the ornament, counting to three and secretly touching it on the count of three. Magic. https://bit.ly/2PzTAp3 I’ve recently found the blog and am loving the podcast. Keep up the funny banter and great advice. Merry Christmas, Nelle
Caroline McDonald
Nelle,
Thank you so much for listening and for coming over here to comment. I actually ordered a dimmer immediately after recording the show! It hadn’t even occurred to me until the girls mentioned it! I love your idea about ‘blowing out the tree’ though.
Happy holidays to you too!
Caroline
Miriam Rosser
Is this comment thread still open? I just posted a question but I don’t see it. Will anyone get back to me? Thanks!
Miriam Rosser
Thank you for your clear directions plus terrific photos showing how to use drapery hooks with curtain rings! My 95” panels don’t have plastic loops for the pins, but I can just catch a bit of the fabric with the pins for support!
Can you please suggest how I might hang sheer panels behind the front panels (attached to the rings) without having the sheers show above my ringed panels? Hanging the sheers via their rod pockets clearly won’t work. I have already installed double rods, or I would consider installing two separate rods so I could place the rod for my sheers lower than the front rod, even though I’d have to raise the bottom hems. My question is how do I hang the sheers so they don’t show above the main panels at the top? Should I search for a second set of clear rings for the sheers? Is there another way?
Caroline McDonald
Hey Miriam,
So glad you found this post helpful. If you already have a double rod, I’m not sure why the sheers are hanging above the front panels? Is it because you’re not hanging them on drapery hooks too?
I’m sorry I don’t understand, but elaborate a bit and I’ll be happy to get back to you!
Caroline
Jenn S.
There are three identical raw-edged wood tables in the “Use a Grouping of Accent Tables” section, along with the Durham Tray Table. Where can I find those raw-edged wood tables? They would be perfect for my small living room.
Caroline McDonald
Jenn,
Sadly these tables have been discontinued. So sorry!
Kimberly
Beautiful display using jewel tones in a classic culture. I am working on a project with similar shades and this has provided me so much inspiration. Thank you!
Julie
I love this layout; however after looking at the underneath space of 26.5″ under the Whitley desk and the height of 27″ for the credenzas will there be room to pull out the drawer on the Whitley desk? It seems the credenza will block a drawer from opening. Is this a problem or am I missing something? Thanks for your help.
Laurie McCallister
I absolutely LOVE pink and have been toying with the idea of incorporating it into my living room. Thank you for the ideas!
Brenda McCarty
I need help deciding what color and style kitchen sink to go with.
Abbey Nolte
Hi Brenda,
Thank you so much for your question. 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
Debra
Hello, let me start off by saying I love you ladies and look forward to listening to your podcasts. There is one thing I would like to point out that I don’t understand however is the over use of the word ” like ” I listened to the Ginny Branch episode for the second time and honestly the over use of the word ” like” annoyed me. You are professionals not high schoolers. I realize the show is supposed to be relaxed , casual, and unscripted . I do love the valuable advice, trials & triumphs, and the education I get from the show however it’s often annoying to listen to with the constant over use of the word ” like .”
Covemaven
I just read this article by Patricia Palermo–I’m not sure when it’s from because the last comment was posted in 2016. It’s been quite some time since she was credited in a post on the BD website, so I’m hoping that she is still with the company. I have to say, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Patricia’s design aesthetic. She has a way of pulling things together with a level of sophistication that is within reach for the everyday homemaker.
Best of all, I’ve actually been flirting with this idea for a very small bedroom in my home for some time, and now I know that it’s worth trying!!
Terry
I don’t see the link to play the podcast. Can this be added? Thank you.
Caroline McDonald
Terry,
Sorry about that! I just added it.
Thanks for listening,
Caroline
Lynn
What was the towell used for? I don’t see it being used in the description or in any photos, yet it is listed and shown in supplies.
Thank you
Caroline McDonald
Lynn,
We used the towel to apply the iron-on adhesive to the panel. You’re right, we didn’t use it when we did the project, but it’s called for in the adhesive instructions. Depending on the trim, you may not need it!
Caroline
Bel
The drapes are on point! Love it all!
Tracye Brandt
Hi Caroline! I am redecorating my home office and love the feel of the the space on page 54 of the September 2018 catalog. Is the paint color used also Benjamin Moore, North Cascades #1411 or a different one? It looks a little more saturated, but it could just be the lighting effect. Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Hi Tracye,
No, this paint color isn’t North Cascades. This is actually the wall color in a home we shot in. I do not know the color because we didn’t pick it. I’m so sorry! I’d suggest taking our catalog to the paint store and having the guys match it.
Best of luck!
Jamie
I have a barn that is 60’ long. I would like to put a wreath in the middle of it, what size would be best?
Caroline McDonald
Jamie, I would definitely find the biggest wreath you could! Definitely at least 36″ but the bigger the better!
karnaarahull
Stunning designs you have to shared. I really like this. Thank you for your sharing this amazing designs. Thank you.
Hollie @ Stuck on Hue Pillows
Pillow customers are always asking me for size and layout recommendations, so I will add this post to my list to send them for bed examples. Aside from beds, I get asked about pillow styling for sectional sofas most of all. You include some regular sofa examples on your “Guide to Choosing Throw Pillows” post, with just one sectional sofa photo at the end, so that may be an idea for a future post.
Zahra Jafri
Hi 🙂
Hope you are doing well.
I need to ask something about my dining room, it has a ceiling fan in the middle so what should be the light arrangement? I really want to use pandant lights but unable to manage it with ceiling fan, please guide me how to arrange lights in an attractive and different way.
Caroline McDonald
Zahra,
I would definitely suggest replacing the ceiling fan with a chandelier or pendant light. In more rooms, we suggest a combination of task and ambient lighting. A chandelier or pendant will make a great focal point, but you might want to add canned lights and lamps around the room too.
Good luck.
Caroline
Julie Kennedy
I live and breathe all things blue, and would love to recreate #2 in my home. Are all the pieces available at Ballard’s?
Caroline McDonald
Julie,
We love this room too! It so fabulous. I think the key is too use one bold fabric in lots of different ways, so here, we’ve used our Charlottte fabric on drapery panels, pillows, and upholstered on an ottoman. On the club chairs, we used Suzanne Kasler’s Linen in Indigo. The rug is our Lindley Hand Knotted Rug.
Happy decorating!
Caroline
Denise Marois
I have a split foyer house. The living room is to the right at the top of the stairs with a half wall and the kitchen, at the back of the house is seen through an arch. There is a large bay window at the front of the living room. We have a chimney cover in the corner separating the living room and kitchen. I have a studio piano, a corner curio cabinet a sofa, 3 accent chairs and odd tables and matching lamps. We are remodeling to sell our house. We just spent $20,000 remodeling our kitchen. We are painting the living room and foyer in neutral tones. The carpeting is in neutral as well. The color in the room comes from the solid sage color sofa and 1 navy print accent chair and two solid navy accent chairs. Help !
Caroline McDonald
Hi Denise,
What are you having trouble with? We’re happy to help. In fact, if you submit your space, our trained interior designers can offer you suggests. Just be sure to upload photos of your space.
Good luck.
Caroline
Judith Kessler
Would love to know the color of the walls on page 26 of the February 2018 issue of your catalog. I am using navy blue and white bedding also.
Caroline McDonald
Is it a bedroom that you’re looking at? Would you mind describing the room so we can give you a better idea?
Thanks!
Taylor Bishop
Thanks for this interesting article for decorating outdoor rooms. I’m glad that you mentioned that decorating an outdoor space shouldn’t be any different from decorating an interior room. That said, it could be fun to see how a space could be decorated with large objects since it doesn’t have walls around the area.
Tiffany
Thanks for the inspiration! I have (and love) dark wood furniture, but I am considering buying a new home that has light gray cabinets and white countertops in the kitchen. Do I need all new furniture, or can the house still flow?
Heather Daly
Hi Tiffany,
Congratulations on the new home! The dark wood still sounds like it could work with your new kitchen. Mixing in darker wood tones with lighter fixtures can give depth to a room. You may consider adding light colored upholstered chairs or fun lighting to incorporate everything together.
Good Luck!
Mollie
I have a dark gray wood and chrome coffee table in my living room with a lighter gray wood and gunmetal L-shaped desk in the corner of the room for our office space. What material do I use for the tv stand and book shelves that we plan on purchasing? Everything is pretty sleek with a hint of mid-century modern. Any suggestions would be appreciated; thanks!
Heather Daly
Hi Mollie,
Try looking for a media console that pulls one of the wood tones from the other pieces to create some cohesiveness to the space. If you can’t find an exact match, finding a piece with chrome hardware or gunmetal hardware would also help tie elements of the room together.
Lucy Tuazon
I think that this idea will make the decorations of the house complete, I just have to choose some paintings that will best match our house as well as will best explain our personality. Having a wall art inside a house is some form of making a statement as well as balancing the design of the house giving it a great accent that contrasts the color. I like your idea of hanging three square pieces of artwork that has the same size, I think this will be best placed on our hallways. Thanks!
Happy Sappy
Amazing and brilliant ideas. Thanks for sharing your tips! I’d love to try these out. Adding Roman shade and of course making it cozy.
Dawn
Love the home office! Can you tell me where I can get the furniture featured??
Heather Daly
Hi Dawn!
You can check out our Original Home Office collection here. It’s a great collection that allows you to customize your office any way you’d like!
Nancy
I listened to your conversation with Robert while I was doing my grocery shopping. There I was walking through the coffee aisle, earbuds in my ears, laughing so hard I snorted. Thanks for making a mundane chore so much stinking fun!
Heather Daly
That’s so great Nancy! We’re glad you enjoyed it!
Deb Thibeault
I am looking for a catalog picture that shows a pair of garden district mirrors flanking a group of prints. I currently have a pair and have been looking for a creative way to use them above my sofa.
Thank you
Heather Daly
Hi Deb,
It doesn’t look like we have an image of that but that sounds like a great idea to use them with artwork!
wall art san diego
As there are various ideas available on the internet but you have tell amazing ways to arrange the porch as it is not easy to arrange the porch but it is not hard too also you can take the brief idea from this website as it tells everything in a fantastic way.
Cindy
I have searched for this angel candlestick holder (October 2018 page 29 catalog) online and called customers service but to no avail. Where can I purchase this please?
Thank you!
Heather Daly
Hi Cindy,
It looks as though the Angel Candlestick may currently be unavailable. Check out our Angel Tree Topper for a similar look!
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/angel-tree-topper/286670?listIndex=3
robinette lynch
I appreciate your advice on rug dimensions; however, there does not seem to be any such thing as an 8 x 12 rug (which is exactly what we need) so why recommend something that doesn’t exist?
Heather Daly
Hi Robinette,
While it’s true, 8×12 is a more uncommon size for rugs, we do over a handful of rugs in this size. Simply search rugs on our website and choose the filter “size”. There is an option for 8×12 rugs within this filter. Hopefully you find one that works for your space!
Carolyn Carver
Hello:
I just ordered four bar stools that were advertised as “29-32 inch seat height”. I need them to be 32″; not 29″ and that’s what they are. Is there anyway to make an adjustment to get the height where I need it to be.
Thank you!
Heather Daly
Hi Carolyn,
While not knowing which bar stools you ordered, you may want to call our customer service for clarification on this.
The Customer Service number is: (800) 536-7551
Anthony
My wife and I just moved into an apartment in the city and we are thinking about getting a Burrow couch. What are your thoughts? We love the idea but we are worried about the longevity of the couch. We like that it is a modular couch and that we can reorder pieces if anything breaks down…we just don’t want anything to break down.
Please share your insight.
Heather Daly
Hi Anthony,
While we can’t speak to another company’s furniture, we would certainly love to help you with any decorating questions you may have.
Submit your decorating questions to our team of design consultants here
Debbie
Which warm grays do you use from Benjamin Moore.
I saw one online in a bedroom from Ballard but it didn’t say which catalog it was from. It has a couple gold sunbursts above the headboard.
Heather Daly
Hi Debbie,
We love Benjamin Moore Stone Hearth #CC-490, Storm #AF-700, Herbal Escape #1487 for warmer gray options.
Elke Wheeler
Love, love, love this episode. My favorite of all. Thanks for the best 1 hour and 22 minutes of a very hectic week. (And just an aside, is it maiden name or bachelor name? I guess it’s whatever one wants it to be!). Now I’m off to search every single thing Mr. Leleux as ever said or done, since I was completely uninitiated to the wonderfulness that is Robert Leleu.
Ruth Bates
Do you still carry the lamp in pictures 1 and 3. Thank you.
Heather Daly
Hi Ruth!
Unfortunatly we no longer carry this lamp. Check out another great mercury glass lamp for a similar feel!
karnaarahull
Very good post. I like very much. Thank you for your sharing. http://greenmapleinteriors.blogspot.com/2018/10/interior-designers-in-chennai.html
Sarah
Best episode yet!
Wanda
Can you tell me about the wide gold framed mirror in the entryway in the first couple of pictures? Was it a Ballard purchase? I love your home!
Heather Daly
Hi Wanda,
Unfortunately we do not have a source for this mirror, but check out a similar mirror here!
https://hocthietkenoithatarcline.tumblr.com
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You managed to hit thhe nail upon the highest and also outlined out
the entire thing without having side effect , other folks cann taoe a signal.
Will likely be back to get more. Thank you!
Lou
should all the shades on the lamps in a living room be the same color? for example with whites and off whites.
Heather Daly
Hi Lou,
Not necessarily. Depending on the room, you could certainly add a colorful pop with a lampshade. However if you have other white lampshades in the room already, we would suggest not adding an off white lampshade into the mix and simply sticking with the prominent color you already have.
~Heather
art picture hanging san diego
Depending upon the condition of the wall you should hang the wall décor as there are various types of walls are there for decoration and to decorate it wall should be of good plaster and a solid wooden wall should be there so that there is no risk of miss happening or treasury.
juanita
Incredible article!- I really loved it. When I saw your post, it was the first thing that came in to my mind. The work is really admirable. There are many unique rugs which will give some classy and different look to any area at https://therugmall.com/product/kaleen-natural-fiber-colinas-col02-103-area-rug-collection/
Millie
Thanks for the inspiration. I have a difficult time finding my style.
Easton Memmott
I like the tip you gave to make sure that all of your kitchen furniture matches each other, so it will look nice. I am looking to get a new kitchen furniture set, so it will look nice for family dinners. I will be sure to get furniture that matches the color scheme of my kitchen, so it will look nice.
Chandni Gusain
Great Blog with usefull furniture Design. Thanks for this Lovely blog..
marge centifanto
I have a king-sized mahagony sleigh bed in my bedroom and a golden oak antique dresser . How can I blend this harmoniously?
Heather Daly
Hi Marge,
Try using an accent color in the room and to create flow between the pieces. You could add blue pillows to the bed, then use that same blue in something like a picture or a lampshade on the dresser. This will create harmony in the room and create a fun mix.
Good Luck!
~Heather
Amy
Love the green velvet window panels featured here. Where can I find these?
Heather Daly
Hi Amy,
Yes aren’t they amazing!?
You can find our Signature Velvet Drapery Panels on our website:
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/signature-velvet-drapery-panel/362569?&prank=1
~Heather
JenB
The one that brought back memories for me was the picture of the columns….pre-garden stools I had a LOT of faux greek columns with plants and vases on them, or used as a table with glass, etc..and vines crawling up them. *cringe*
Nancy
Hi How to Decorate Ladies!
Was listening to your podcast with Libby this morning you were talking about the best way to store paint for inevitable future touch-ups. The best product I have found is called “Paint Saint”. It’s a little canister with an attached paintbrush on the lid. Genius! They sell for about $15 on Amazon.
Heather Daly
Hi Nancy!
Thanks for the great tip!
~Heather
oniry
Love how you setup the whole things darling. Fabulous job!
Alex Mills
I love this article…Best ideas for living room furnishing makes stylish and beautiful…
All layouts are so beautiful and inspirational
Thanks for sharing
Amanda
Nice stuff to decorate the living room beautifully. I really like this article so much. Thanks and keep sharing.
Vineeta
Hi!
I am a henna artist and decorate pumpkins with henna designs!
Please feel feee to take a look.
Thanks,
Vineeta
Rachel
Great advice and beautiful photos to complement it! I noticed that I often have an issue with getting the scale right. Thanks for the info!
Karen
I have a bar height counter with stools would a high top table look good next to it or a normal height table?
Heather Daly
Hi Karen,
Since most high top tables are typically counter height, if the table would be right next to your bar height counter, it may be too much for the space to have the varying heights. We suggest maybe going with a normal size table.
~Heather
Rhianna Hawk
Thanks for the tips; this will really help for when I have my walk-in closet installed this fall. I had some water damage to my bedroom wall from a leaking pipe in the ceiling, and since the wall has to be removed anyway, I figured I’d just have them add on a closet in the process. I’ll definitely be sure to take your advice and get some closet organizers to keep my shoes and clothes neat and orderly.
Gail
Can you tell me where the wicker bed in Decorating with Hats July 2018 is from?
Gail
Heather Daly
Hi Gail,
We are sorry but this bed has been discontinued. You can shop other pieces from this collection by Suzanne Kasler’s Southport Rattan collection here.
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/suzanne-kasler-southport-rattan-side-table/468929?&prank=1
do noi that
Right here is the perfect website for anybody who hopes to understand this
topic. You realize so much its almost hard to argue with you (not that I actually would want to…HaHa).
You definitely put a brand new spin on a subject that has been written about for ages.
Great stuff, just wonderful!
April
Hi! I just bought a house and i have a living room and dining room together. Problem is, i dont know how to light the room! I dont want to put chandelier because the ceiling looks great and i want to illimunate the beauty of my ceiling. Any tips?
Heather Daly
Hi April,
Congrats on the new house! Choosing the right lighting in an open floor plan can be tricky. We’d love to take a look and answer your lighting questions. We have a team of designers who can help with your lighting and decorating questions. To get started, fill out this form. https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/send-us-your-own-decorating-dilemma/
Good luck!
Lee Drummond
I appreciated the discussion about family photos! I am glad I am not the only one trying to figure out how to tackle this. A quick tip: A cloud-based NixPlay is a great way to display many family photos in one spot. It is a photo display screen that can be updated from anywhere. Ideal for people with loved ones (especially grandkids) far away and for people with lots of photos who don’t want to display them all in frames.
Thanks for this wonderful podcast that always gets me thinking!!
Sincerely,
Lee Drummond
Debbie Miller
I would love to get your catalogs for each season if possible. I don’t now and would love to not have to request one for each new catalog. Thank ;you
21178 SE Foster rd
Damascus,Or
97089
Heather Daly
Hi Debbie,
You can sign up to receive catalogs by filling out this form.
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/RequestACatalogView?storeId=10052&catalogId=10551&langId=-1
shele
So disappointed. Tried to find the color of a wall paint on pg 6 of your August catalog. I called and nobody can tell me what color lavender it is:(
Heather Daly
Hi Shele,
While we don’t know the exact color of the wall, we recommend you try Benjamin Moore’s Spring Iris 1402 for a similar look.
Sarah
Hi there, do you know what chairs these are from Ballard? I saw them in a catalog not long ago and now they are nowhere to be found online so I wanted to call and ask about them. They are 💯. And I love them!
Thanks,
Sarah
Heather Daly
Hi Sarah,
So sorry but it looks as though these chairs have been discontinued. Check out these chairs for a similar look!
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/suzanne-kasler-southport-rattan-dining-chair/furniture/dining-kitchen/dining-chairs/470431
covemaven
Thank you!
Carrie
Wow. How very helpful! Honestly, I think this is the best article I have read when it comes to Throw Pillow guides. It is always so difficult making home deco choices. I found the perfect website for throw pillows – http://www.avigaildesignsathome.com – I love their stuff (throw pillows are based according to theme) and free worldwide shipping is awesome! Hope this helps!!
DEEPA J PATOLE
hello ,
I just purchased two three seater leather walnut color sofas . Can you please help me what color cushions will look good on it.
Deepa
Heather Daly
Hi Deepa,
Leather is a great neutral so you could really do anything as far as patterns or colors. If you’d like to keep things more monochromatic you could layer different textures and sizes of pillows. For a different look, you could also add fun pops of jewel toned pillows as they would pair nicely with a brown leather sofa.
Good Luck!
Furniture Store in Tucson AZ
Wow! Such a great pictures of bedroom set. Thanks for sharing these with us.
Michael Clarke
First of all, I must say that it’s an amazing blog post. All the ways you have mentioned to arrange furniture are looks so beautiful. Definitely wanna try out these ways at home.
Nsncy
Hi I need help decorate and keeping it simple.
Heather Daly
Hi Nancy,
We would love to answer your design questions! We have designers that are here to help. Simply submit your decorating question along with some photos to https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/send-us-your-own-decorating-dilemma/
Lisa
Hi, we are building our new home and need some help with what size dining room table to get. The dining room is 12×10, open concept floor plan.. I was wondering if a Round 60in pedestal table with 6 chairs would work, I want planning on adding a side bar. Any suggestions welcomed. Thank you.
Heather Daly
Hi Lisa,
A 60″ round pedestal table would fit in a 12×10 dining room, especially if it’s open concept. This size still leaves room for dining chairs. A round table also makes it easier to move around the space. Check out our Andrews Pedestal Dining Table: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/andrews-pedestal-dining-table/350657?searchTerm=SUGGESTION%20-%20ANDREWS%20PEDESTAL%20DINING%20TABLE
Good luck with the new home!
Jan Peak
What color cabinets and countertops would go with dark gray wood grained floors?
Heather Daly
Hi Jan,
If you are looking to brighten the kitchen, you could choose white kitchen cabinets with light countertops. These colors are neutral and would pair beautifully with gray wood floors.
Elizabeth Fernandez
Since I can’t afford to get rid of my dining room set, I’d appreciate suggestions for creating an updated look within the confines of a small budget.
Heather Daly
Hi Elizabeth,
We have a great free design service where a trained interior designer can make some suggestions for you based on your budget.
Sign up here for an appointment: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/design-solutions/contenthttps://www.ballarddesigns.com/design-solutions/content
Jeanne
Great pointers! Here’s an idea that would be helpful in your catalogs and online for selecting sizes of paintings: please state the size shown in your photos so we can get an idea of the scale. WhileI have made templates to see the size before buying, it would still be helpful to know what you used in your vignette.
Heather Daly
Hi Jeanne,
Thank you for your feedback! We will be sure to pass that along.
Nancy McMenaman
Love your ideas and wisdom … very refreshing and humble .. moving on with the times !! Pls put me on your e mail list … thank you. Nancy McMenaman. honandmom@gmail.com
Heather Daly
Nancy,
Thank you for the kind words! You can sign up to stay current on all things Ballard through our website at the bottom of the page.
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/
Caroline
I’ve followed Ballard since the early 90’s. There are products shown in your “mistakes” that are viable today. In your dining example of a matched set….I wish I had that today! I think its important to understand that every “look” is suitable and trendy for the time it exists and don’t think of it as a mistake. I am not a design aficionado but have spent eons studying it and I believe Ballard has done a great job over the years.
Nanci Natale
I love your catalogs. While I never really look at the rooms “as a whole” – I like to look at them in an exploratory way – will that little item in the background work in my home? How will that chair fit in – not necessarily buying all the items in a room as a whole – I’ve purchased many items that I culled from your rooms – never been a fan of “matchy matchy” – I’m eclectic all the way!
Bethany G.
It was nice that you pointed out that it’s important to make sure that your art wall decor is going to be placed at approximately eye level. My husband and I are planning to buy new home wall decor products including frames. We want to make sure that people will have the time to appreciate the beauty of the home wall decor products that we will buy, so I’ll make sure to consider all your tips.
Nicholas Williams
Thanks for sharing this great article and wallpaper are awesome. Keep up good work.
Lauren
Hi, where can I find the square leather ottoman?
Thanks!
Heather Daly
Hi Lauren,
While this ottoman is no longer available, check out our Carmen Ottoman with Latte Leather top for a similar look!
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/carmen-leather-ottoman/475318?&prank=19
Fabby
Very pretty table, wish you hadnt place the name card on top of the pretty plates, couldnt see the pattern.
Fabby
Sharon Wilson-Smith
I found it helpful when you said that you should consider hanging art pieces at approximately eye level to make sure that you can look at them properly. My husband and I are interested in buying oil canvas paintings that we can use to decorate our house. We want all the people that will see it to not have a hard time appreciating it, so we’ll make sure to follow your tips.
covemaven
The link to the petite art in the first vignette is not the same picture as the one on the mantel. The one on the mantel is matted. The one in the link is not, and it is a very different scape than that pictured. Is the one on the mantel available through Ballard?
Heather Daly
Hello,
The correct link for that artwork can be found here
https://www.ballarddesigns.com/petite-complete-calm-art/479631?prank=28
Cynthia Priola
Please come to Las Vegas we need you and were growing !! Love your eye for color pattern texture it all comes to gather beautiful .
Dawn
August issue — What color/name is the blue paint on page 58?
Caroline McDonald
Dawn,
That is Benjamin Moore’s Windy Sky #1639. So glad you liked it!
Caroline
KiM
Wall color on page 70 please!
Caroline McDonald
Kim,
Did you want to know the paint color on page 70 of the August 2018 catalog? It’s Inner Balance by Benjamin Moore.
Happy Decorating,
Caroline
Keisha Bergeron
Hello,
I’m trying to find the color of paint used on page 92 and 93 of the August 2018 catalog. It has 35 years on cover. I love the blue office! Thanks
Caroline McDonald
Keisha,
It’s Benjamin Moore’s New York State of Mind #805. You can see all of the paint colors here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2018/07/fall-2018-catalog-paint-colors/
Caroline
Joy Butler
Hi Caroline, it’s great that you elaborated on creating a focal point. I had no idea that the combination of enough space, modern furniture, and accessories will give a beautiful home. I will certainly be doing this awesome tip in our house. Thanks a lot!
Virginia Tutza
August 2018 catalogue. What color paint is on the walls on page 69 and page 70.
My home has an Open floor plan. Living room has Ballard Marchesa rug 8×10 family room and dining room each have Ballard Tabitha rug 8×10. Wall color on page 70 looks like it will work with all 3 rooms.
Thank you in advance for a response.
Caroline McDonald
Virginia,
The color is Benjamin Moore’s Inner Balance. I definitely think it’ll work with both the Tabitha and Marchesa rugs. Those pair so well together! Glad you liked these spaces.
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Nancy Lear
I diligently listen to your podcast. This week I enjoyed more than most. Katie Lydon was so down to earth and she shared valuable decorating advice for your listeners! thank you so much
Caroline McDonald
Nancy,
Thank you! Thank you! We love hearing that, and I’m so happy that you enjoyed this episode. Thanks for listening, and please send more feedback always.
Caroline
Gerri L McQueen
Love the look of the windows. What hardware did you use to achieve the full wall look?
I have ordered 12 panels of Suzanne Kasler Signature 13oz Linen Drapery Panels. But need rod that can go up to 120″ across to cover wall of windows.
Caroline McDonald
Gerri,
This is our regular Single Drapery Rod Kit which goes up to 108″. Because you need a bit longer, you could try using some of our corner connectors to lengthen the rods, but you may be able to find rods that go up to 120″.
Good luck!
Frances Goldston
Interesting that your photo shows a twin bed as I, too, am thinking of downsizing from a queen size to a twin for my BR makeover. I need to make better use of my small space & feel this is the best place to start. Any trends you can share?
Ellen Hughes
The best part of your blog for me is when you talked about the importance of making sure that there will be enough space between tools for people to dine, so you must consider determining the number of stools that can fit in your space. This is a nice tip for me because I’m planning to buy new kitchen stools and covers for it. My goal is to have a comfortable space in my kitchen while maintaining its aesthetic appeal. Thanks!
Jan
Hi
Need some help
I have very dark woodwork and purchased a matte black cherry dining table and chairs, with a turned leg -just cushion seat and wooden backs
Also purchased a dark same wooden tones buffet
Along with a shades of brown granite topped buffet
The bottom of which is yellowish off white.
Both buffets are the same size which I think was a mistake. Your opinion please
and I have a built in china cabinet
I feel there’s too much dark going on but don’t know how to fix it
My carpet is antique look with shades of beige a bit of rust and splashes of blue
I don’t know what color fabric to have on the chairs or what type fabric
Any suggestions
It’s a lively room has three windows on wall opposite the built in cabinet
The walls on either side of the built in cabinet have built in wall shelves as does one other wall
Also ornate pillars that sit on big square blocks as you leave the room
I think this home might be of craftsman design
Any suggestions would be appreciated
The walls are neutral off white
Thank you for your time
Kath
Hi, I need some help in mixing wood color in bedroom. I have a mahogany bed and i’m planning to get a cherry maple side table. Is it okay to have a different color of bed and side table?
Heather Daly
Hi Jan,
Try our tip of using a color to tie it all together. You could try using a lampshade on the side table and a pillow on the bed that are the same color to create harmony and flow. This will take the eye away from the different wood tones and the focus will be on the accent color.
Good Luck!
Anne
I have two ochre coloured sofa’s (not beige or yellow, but a mix of both). I want to revamp my living room but i’m At a loss as to what colour to use for new curtains and cushions. At the moment it has a combination of duck egg and cream, but I feel it is too bland. What would you suggest?
Anne
Caroline McDonald
Anne,
It’s hard to make a suggestion without seeing photos of your space, but we do offer free design services in our stores and online. They’d be able to look at the colors of your furniture and make appropriate suggestions. You can sign up for an email or online consultation here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/design-solutions/content
Best of luck!
Caroline
Lindsay Boudwin
I am also wanting to know where the bed is from.
Caroline McDonald
Lindsay,
I’m so sorry, but I don’t have any information about this bed!
Caroline
Sandra
Hello,
I have always been awful at anything visual. I’ve never felt like I had a nice home. I have decided to invest in my home again and take it room by room. I decided to start with the living room and bought a black recliner sofa. I had an idea of how I would decorate with an earthy industrial look. I’m having problems and my original inspiration idea is not working. I’m buying things, trying them and returning them. What I see now is a very masculine room (I’m female). This was the look I was going for:
http://decoholic.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/fresh-living-room-with-black-leather-sofa.jpg
Do you offer services or guidance for a project like this?
Thanks,
Sandra
Caroline McDonald
Sandra,
I love the inspiration picture you sent and am so glad you’ve decided to make your home a space you really love!
We do offer design consultations, and I’m certain one of our designers can help you. If you’re near one of our retail stores, you can schedule an appoint in the store, or we offer phone or email consultations. See all info here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/design-solutions/content
Good luck!
Caroline
Jude
Where is the info on “how to choose the right stool for your kitchen” . Thank you.
Caroline McDonald
Jude,
Here’s our guide to choosing bar stools: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/trends-features/features/guide/barstools-buying-guide/
Hopefully this is what you’re looking for!
Caroline
Maria Gonzalez
I have enjoyed all of the beautiful decor on your site. I hope you will keep inspiring us with more creative decorating ideas. Great work!
Lisa Briggs
Is the rug available shown with the Galapagos Torquise blue walls with the dining room set?
Caroline McDonald
Lisa,
That’s the Casa Florentina Lamontagne Rug. You can find it here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/casa-florentina-lamontagne-hand-knotted-rug/358407
So glad you like it.
Caroline
Tina Garry
Hi there,
I am interested in finding out the color of the walls on pages 38-39 of the July 2018 catalog. I do not see it listed in any of the months I looked up.
Thank you.
Caroline McDonald
Tina, this color is Benjamin Moore’s Spring Mint #2040-70!
Sarah Brooks
I’m so in love with this website! We’re trying to redesign our living room to be similar to picture #2. Do you happen to know the wall color?
Caroline McDonald
It’s Benjamin Moore’s Jute AF-80!
edward reed
Great blog… it is very interesting and informative. Thank you for the sharing this amazing designs.
melissa
this would be more helpful if there was space for the wifi network as well
Lori
I love the rug in the entry (orange and dark blue tones). Can you share where it is from?
Caroline McDonald
Lori,
I believe this is an antique rug that Natalie purchased at Scott’s Antique Market in Atlanta!
Caroline
Judy
I have framed three diplomas, 1 is 30 1/2″wide x 22″ high, the 2nd is 24″ wide x 20″ high and the third is 15 1/4″ wide by 17 1/2″ high. These are my grandmother’s from 1906 and 1908. All three are matted and framed the same. I want to group them on a wall that is 8′ high and 51 1/2″ wide. These are going in a guest room that is a navy, tan, red plaid. (I hung 45 years ago!) This section of wall has a window next to it. On the other side of the window is wall is exactly the same. My home is 118 year old Victorian. I just can’t seem to get the placement right!
Caroline McDonald
Judy,
Without seeing photos of the space, it’s hard to make suggestions, but I would try adding a few more pieces to the collection (they don’t need to be diplomas but could be anything). Then, arrange all of the pieces on the floor where you’ll be hanging them. Just play with the arrangement until you find something you like!
Good luck,
Caroline
Debi Petersen
Good morning!
I love this room. I love the SURF letters. Can you tell me where you found those. Would be so cute in my son’s room.
Thank you!
Caroline McDonald
Debi,
Unfortunately these letters have been discontinued. So sorry!
Caroline
Travis Ward
Nice article! Thanks for those ideas.
Meghan
Do you happen to know the shutter color?
Caroline McDonald
Meghan, I don’t I’m so sorry!
Jessica
Hi, We have a dining room that is 13.5x 13.5. We are thinking a round table but aren’t sure of the size. We are betweem 60″ and 72″, do you have any guidence?
Thank you,
Jessica
Caroline McDonald
Jessica,
Since you have a great, big room, either the 60″ or 72″ table would fit. The question you should ask is how many people you most often seat. If you’re usually seating 4-5, then a 72″ table will feel HUGE and awkward. A 60″ table would be a much better fit since they’ll seat up to 8 comfortably. If you’re usually seating more than 6, then I would go ahead and get the 72″ table.
Hopefully that helps!
Caroline
Lynnied
Just found your site & FB page, love your designs. Looked over your ‘how to’ section but didn’t see anything on how/where to paint an accent wall. I.e., bathroom, do I paint the wall that has the sink & mirror or the wall opposite that is just a blank wall with the towel bar. Am so confused, so I do nothing. OR not even have an accent wall. Any ideas/opinions would be appreciated.
Caroline McDonald
Lynnied,
You’re right, we don’t have a How To about painting an accent wall, but I’m sure there are great painting tutorials out there that could help you. Is there a reason you want to paint an accent wall rather than painting the whole room? You’ll get a lot more drama from painting the whole room, and a bathroom is the perfect place to have fun with a bold color. Another great option would be to wallpaper your bathroom. We love wallpapering bathrooms because they give small spaces tons of personality!
Good luck and happy decorating,
Caroline
Jessica
I just adore the rug in Camille’s nursery. Can you tell me if that was a vintage find or if it can be found for purchase. I’m looking for one just like it. Thank you!
Caroline McDonald
Jessica,
I believe it was from Anthrologie actually.
So glad you like it!
Caroline
Lisha
I have a 10.5 by 6 foot dining area. Please help with what table I should get, round or rectangle and what size
Caroline McDonald
Lisha,
Layout your room in our Room Planner and see what fits best. An oval or rectangular would probably fit best, but it’s worth trying all of your options. Just know that you want to leave 36″ around the table for each chair to pull out comfortably.
Good luck and happy decorating!
Caroline
Brittany
Hi! Do you know where the bench from the 5th picture is from? Love it!
Thanks 🙂
Caroline McDonald
Brittany,
Unfortunately this bench is discontinued, but our Lonny Bench has a similar look and function.
Caroline
Amy Attridge
Love your podcast! Just found it today 🙂
Did you ever figure out what chair book you were talking about it? Sounds interesting. Is it this one or a different one? Thanks
The Chair: Rethinking Culture, Body, and Design
Book by Galen Cranz
Also, we just got planning to do an extension on our family built 1930s home in Ireland…which is actually basically a new build…and I feel overwhelmed sometimes with all the choices! I’ve been reading and researching and pinning to see what timeless things I like for each area of the house. I found a lot of Help in your poscast with Maria Killam and found it so interesting and helpful! Really helped me with the confidence to go with my gut feeling and liking of mainly white kitchen and still undecided exactly but was so encouraged with the tips about timeless colours!
Loved the tips here with layout tips and how to find focal points and thinking about the function of the room. I was also struggling with should I hide he TV or not? We are a family that loves movies and uses our TV to relax so I love the idea of compromise to make sort of a focal point with art pieces around the TV and make sort of a glery wall of it. (If you said it that way not sure)
Anyway I’m rambling! Have learned so much today! Totally need more information about lighting but..I will research that next!
Love your podcast! 🙂
Amy
West Cork, Ireland
Caroline McDonald
Amy,
Thank you so much for listening, and I’m delighted you found the show! I’m not sure what chair book you’re talking about? What episode did we mention it? If I know the episode, I can go back through and try to figure out what book.
In several episodes we’ve asked designers about hiding the tv, and generally they say that you can but it’s not necessary. Just give yourself something else pretty to look at on that same wall and call it a day. Your gallery wall idea sounds like the perfect solution.
Let me know if you have any other questions. So glad you’re learning a lot!
Caroline
Stacie Kats
Hi! Love this read. Seriously considering using an outdoor rug for my foyer.
Would you be able to tell me where the coffee/side tables in front of the yellow couch in the second picture came from?
Looking forward to browsing the rest of your site!
Caroline McDonald
Stacie,
The coffee tables are our Bornova Side Tables, but the chrome table is no longer available. Although, our new Manhattan Side Table has a very similar look.
So happy to hear you like this space!
Caroline
michele
I have a 29 x 38 floral acrylic on an 11 ft wall behind my dining room table. It’s a large painting and really love it but feel that I need something on either side to balance the space. Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Michele
Caroline McDonald
Michele,
What about a bracket with a piece of dinnerware or pottery on either side of your painting? We love this look, especially when you bring in rounded items. They’ll balance the rectangular painting you have.
Good luck!
TERRE
A pair of wall sconces would look great! These can be in woods or metals, and various colors, depending on your decor. The idea is to balance the wall, but don’t have the sconces detract from your artwork.
Sherry
Thanks for the inspiration! Could you do a one day makeover using some of the items already owned? Love those to make me rethink how I use things.
Gina
I’ve seen this several places but never felt like figuring it all out. Now that you have given me directions and measurements, I feel like I can accomplish this next weekend and add a little style to my bedroom. Thank you!
Maureen
I am moving into a new house and the dining room is 7.5 x 9.5 then there is additional area in a bay window. I am planning of getting a table after I move in but need to know what size and shape table and what size light fixture to get for the space. Also, the room has a cathedral ceiling. Any suggestions are appreciated greatly… as I need to make these decisions quickly…
Thank You!
Caroline McDonald
Maureen,
Congrats on your new house! Try a few layout options using our Room Planner tool. It’ll help you visualize the space and determine exactly what size and shape table will make the most sense. Remember you’ll want to leave 36″ around the table so chairs can pull out comfortably.
In terms of a light fixture, the rule of thumb is that your chandelier should be between 50-75% the width of your table. So for a 60″ table, you want a chandelier that’s 30-45 inches in diameter.
Happy decorating!
Caroline
janice
Need help! I have a copper top walnut buffet. I have 12 foot ceiling in dining room. I’m at a loss. Can you help?
Caroline McDonald
Janice,
What do you need help with? We do offer free design services online and in our stores if you want to make an appointment. They can offer your layout advise, as well as fabric and furniture plans, and more! Sign up here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/design-solutions/content
Good luck!
Caroline
Diana Elizabeth
The smart bulbs, Phillips HUE works well (you need the bulbs and the HUE system) and you can say “Hey Google, turn on all the lights” or “Hey Google turn on living room lights” 😉 It’s how we operate around here too. You can also put them on timers as well 🙂 xx
Amanda
Great work! I love the makeover of this kitchen. Rally you are so talented. I want to decorate my kitchen like this. Thanks a lot for the wonderful article.
Ursula
I would like to buy a kitchen knock sofa
Deborah Loizou
Hi Caroline,
I’m so excited to share that I’ve just purchased 4 grey Dayna side chairs and the 48″ rubbed white Sidney pedestal dining table.
I live in an apartment and I’m seeking ideas, the right size sofa, love seat or chair combination. The living room and dining room is an L shape. Any ideas? I have a floor plan layout with the size of spaces. How can I get it to you?
Any assistance would be appreciated…Thank you.
Debbie
Caroline McDonald
Deborah,
So glad you found us and what you’re looking for for your new apartment! We’d be happy to help you. We actually offer free design services online — simple submit your space through this form: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2017/05/decorating-dilemma-lens-apartment/.
Thanks for reaching out,
Caroline
Bibi Houssain
Hello, thank you for your information. Very helpful. I have a question, I have oak panel in my living room and thinking of putting wood flooring. My question is, would it be better to put a lighter shade oak or can i use a different wood? Thank you. Bibi.
Caroline McDonald
Bibi,
That’s a tricky question to answer without seeing photos, but as a general rule, I don’t think the woods need to match exactly. I would try to stick with the same tone woods though. For example, if your wood paneling is very warm, then choose either a lighter or darker wood but in that same warm tone. If your wood paneling has more of a gray undertone, then choose something with more gray. Does that make sense?
Best of luck!
Caroline
Cheryl Hoerner
Hi, I just found this website tonight and I have to say I’M HOOKED! Can’t stop reading. I have my living room torn apart right now and not sure of a wall color. I have a soft teal right now but it’s been on for 10 years and I almost want to paint with same color but something is stopping me. Tan carpet, a darker tan sofa and the chair/chairs will be new so I can do a print. I love teal – anything in that color range. Advise? Tan walls and lots of teal accents, window treatments, printed chairs? Or do I just paint it a softer teal this time with lots of teal and brown accents, maybe some yellow? Any advise would be so very welcomed. Thank you all the amazing ideas you have on here. Love it all!
Caroline McDonald
Cheryl,
So glad you found us and that you’re finding so much inspiration. That’s what we love to hear!
It’s hard to make a suggestion without seeing your space, but we do actually offer free design services online. They’d be happy to help you formulate a plan for your living room. Simply submit your space using this form: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2017/05/decorating-dilemma-lens-apartment/
Caroline
Marco
My dining area is 8’x8’ Should I go with a round table , if so what size should I get. And if I choose a rectangle what would be a good size?
Caroline McDonald
Marco,
For square rooms, I really prefer a round table. It makes the most sense spatially. As for the size, that’s really up to you. How many people do you most often sit at your table? I would probably choose between a 48in round table or something in the low 50’s. A 60in round table won’t leave you a ton of room around the exterior of the space. You want at least 36′ between the edge of your table and your walls to allow for flow and chairs to pull out comfortably.
Best of luck!
Caroline
Amanda
Love this article! I am impressed by your work. Your blog has nice information and I got good ideas. Thanks for sharing.
Jean
I loved your suggestions for round tables. My dining room table is seven feet long.
It is quite unusual. It is kinda rugged, gray wood with designs in the wood made out of crushed stone , blends in with the color I’m not doing it’s description justice but isbeautiful.
Any ideas for a long table?
Thanks
Laura Fielder
Nice!
Diane M Elfert
could you please tell me, how I can order the or find the queen bee basket, that you have on website. I love it and I want to put our extra towels in it. Please help. I would really appreciate it.
thank you,
diane
Caroline McDonald
Diane,
I’m so sorry but this basket is discontinued!
Mesa Home design
Hi JEANIE,
You shared a great article about the designing of home which help you to save your time and money by using the current technology ,material and construction process ,if you plan to design and build a new home or do an extensive remodel on an existing house within a short period of a time without the wastage of money and time then the best solution for you problem you must communicate with professional design consultants for given a graceful ideas of home designing with the techniques of sustainable design principles for domestic home design and construction.So you must fallows the ideas of profession home designer for the save of money and time according to my opinion .
Thanks .
Mark Treko
Thanks for this article!
Edna Thorp
I was searching for some of home decor tips to improve my home and I found this post so useful. Great work!
RDavid
love this house
Mauricio Lemoine
I have a large mirror and a large print that I would like to hang. the walls are perpendicular to each other. one wall is the entry (foyer area) and the other is the wall facing the front door. would that be a problem due to their size?
Caroline McDonald
Mauricio,
We don’t think it’ll be a problem at all! Sounds fabulous.
Marty Bardzel
Great ideas. Thank you for sharing
Keep sending more. Need to revamp my place. Love container gardening and all your ideas
Going to put you in a special file.
Happy Summer?
Marion Sluder
I have a tall buffet how do1 1i I decorate it
Caroline McDonald
Marion,
All of these tips would be applicable to a tall buffet! Hopefully you’ve found it helpful.
Best of luck.
Suzanne
Hi,
Would be great if you could include the exterior paint colors too. Am particularly interested in the painted brick colors on pages 66, 67 and 74 of the summer catalogue.
Thanks!
Suzanne
Caroline McDonald
Suzanne,
Sadly, we don’t know any of the exterior paint colors where we shoot! I’m so sorry. I could try to color match them for you, but you’d probably have better luck having the paint store help you figure it out. Or at least point you in the right direction! The guys at the paint store are so knowledgable and will give you far better suggestions than I will. Exterior paint colors can be tricky!
Best of luck,
Caroline
Elisa Ledwon
Could you provide ideas for a china cabinet in a formal dining room?
Caroline McDonald
Elisa,
In terms of styling, I would follow all of these same suggestions for a formal dining room. If you’d like, go a little more symmetrical in a formal china cabinet, but overall, these tips apply to formal spaces as well!
Happy Decorating,
Caroline
Diane DeSantis
I have tried to send my dilemma for my family room and bedroom both, but the website will not upload the photos and fails. Is there another way to contact you for this advice?
Thx
Caroline McDonald
Diane,
I’m sorry you’re having difficulty. Just email your question and images to Dilemmas@ballarddesigns.net and mention that you had difficulty.
Thanks for your comment.
Caroline
Dayna Hairston
Great job on the show ladies! How do you select designers to be featured on the show? Our design website features home styling advice, tips and tricks to empower homeowners to become their own interior designer. We think we would be a great fit for the show!
Yael Wiesner
Amazing tool! do you have this in metrics?
Caroline McDonald
Yael,
I don’t believe its in metrics, no. So sorry!
Danielle Sigwalt
That was the best! Totes agree on so much…
Meghan Embry
I was hoping you could tell me the paint color in the “happy wall color” photo. It is exactly what I have been looking for. Thanks!
Ann
Hi,
I love everything about this Home. So well put together and such great style. Where are the curtain rods from, pretty please. Can you ask Natalie and let us know. Thank you
Kathleen Kelly
I loved this story on pinks. I know that I’m not the only one with a picture in their mind from a long ago time in their life when they felt that excitement within after seeing a beautifully decorated room that matched their idea of a fairy tale. Moving from the Shores of New England to Palm Beach as an adolescent was beyond culture shock. That must be why I’ve always loved pinks, especially in rooms decorated in what’s described as “Palm Beach Regency” which includes the bright tropical flower & leaves prints, stark white-framed furniture with garnishes of brilliant gold accessory pieces! This story has piqued my interest, and although I don’t recall rooms decorated in the above manner described, it seems to me that Ballard’s carries many of the essential ingredients to make this happen….Perhaps it’s time for me to ask for the assistance of one of Ballard’s professional decorators!
Mani
I think putting plates instead of frames on wall is a good idea.
Herndon Inge
Informative, and fun. Great job. Always interesting guests.
Sue B.
What a beautiful home! Can you please tell me where the dining room buffet lamps are from? Thank you!
Caroline McDonald
Sue,
Thank you for your comment, and I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed seeing Natalie’s home! Unfortunately, I don’t know where Natalie purchased these lamps, but here are two options that are similar: our Matilda Lamp and our Whitney Lamp.
Caroline
Peggy Shorten
I love the dining room chairs. Can you tell me where they are from? Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Peggy,
They are the Camel Back Parsons Chairs from Ballard Designs in Trilby Charcoal. So glad you like them!
Caroline
Marc
My open dinning area is 8 foot square. What shape and size should I consider for a dinning table. Does round table takes more room than a square table?
Caroline McDonald
Marc,
Round or square would definitely work, although I’d vote for round. Round tables tend to fit more people around them because they don’t have corners! Good luck!
Lisa Herd
I love this home! Can you tell me where to purchase the coffee table. It is oval with s brass blade and white top.
Caroline McDonald
Lisa,
I’m sorry but I don’t have any information about the coffee table. I’m so sorry!
Caroline
Madison May
Page 60 the Green on the left upper corner
Ruthdiana
You really do have a beautiful home. I especially love your taste in furniture with all the light wood shades. Love this post! Thanks
Herndon Inge
Very practical, and helpful advice.
Dianne
Hi. I have a long and narrow dinning room. 15 x 8. I am looking at a table that is 7 x 3 feet. I feel that it may be to wide for the 8 foot width. What do you think?
Caroline McDonald
Dianne,
The rule of thumb is to leave 3 feet of space surrounding your table to allow for chairs to be pulled out. If you don’t have any other furniture in your room, we don’t think a 3 foot wide table would be too large!
Try laying out your room using our Room Planner Tool — it’ll help you visualize the space.
Caroline
Kathy Holland
We are purchasing a new (new to us) home. The bedroom’s have windows on 2 walls and the rooms are small. Your suggestion of making the bed, under the window, a focal point is a great way to make the room look and feel larger. Thank you for your amazing vision. Best regards, Kathy
Caroline McDonald
Kathy,
I’m so happy to hear that you found this post inspirational! I think we’ve all had that thought when buying a new home of how to make what we already have work. Hopefully you’ll be able to make the bedrooms relaxing, peaceful places you enjoy spending time in.
Thanks for your comment,
Caroline
Yael Wiesner
My living room/dining room (one room) is a combination of cherry wood bookcases and table& chairs, a light grey L-shaped couch and creme colored walls. The colors don’t clash, but they don’t blend nicely either. I’m not buying new furniture, but is there a specific color or pattern which can bring all these colors together to give an inviting look? Thanks for your help
Caroline McDonald
Yael,
We actually free design services in our stores, online, and by phone. Sign up for a consultation here. They can help you find art and accessories to pull everything together!
Good luck!
Tarryn
What colours is the headboard in the last image?
Caroline McDonald
Tarryn,
It’s Suzanne Kasler’s Blanc linen. So glad you like this space!
Caroline
Jen
Is alabaster on the trim as well with a different sheen? Or is that another shade of white?
Caroline McDonald
Jen,
I’m so sorry but I don’t have any information about the trim color or sheen. This is a real home that we used to shoot in, and the trim was already painted!
Linda Ecret
On Page 74 of your newest catalog there is information about how to find out what the color of the room is (on the blog). I accessed the blog, but
could not locate the color that is shown here!
Can you please email me the color name?
Thanks.
Caroline McDonald
Linda,
All of the paint colors from our Spring catalog are here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/category/decorating/paint-colors/
I’m sorry you had difficulty finding it, but hopefully now your questions are answered!
Caroline
covemaven
Ladies~ This podcast is full of great information, but the sound is very muffled. I tried downloading it rather than just listening as is on the website, but it didn’t make a difference. My sound is turned all the way up and there are many things that I cannot hear clearly. It sounds like you were all sitting too far away from the microphone. I am a frequent listener and look forward to each new podcast, but this one is just torturous to try to hear! I am in a silent environment (early morning stillness–everyone else is still asleep), and it sounds like many of the words are being swallowed up before they can get fully projected.
Amanda
Great guide! I love the info provided by you. Your guide is very helpful for everyone to choosing throw pillows. Thanks for sharing.
Deborah Adams
It was really helpful to know that it’s ideal to add a desk lamp on your office space which must be about 16” above the work surface to make sure that your office space will have an adequate task lighting. My husband told me that he wanted to use our library so he can still work even he’s at home. I want him to have a functional and comfortable office area in our library, so I’ll make sure to shop for a desk lamp and consider your tips on placing it on our office table. Thanks!
Cynthia
Hi there! Where can I find the white relief prints that are over the bed in the useful gray room?
Caroline McDonald
Cynthia,
These are our Coretta Wood Plaques. So glad you like them!
Emily
Hi! Could you please tell me the finish of the feet for the Eton sofa in “Watery blues and grays give this living room an inviting feel.”? Thank you!
Janey
I LOVE the office layout!
Bernie
I have solid wood flooring in my dining room the color is a dork brown. My living room is right across from the dining room and has carpet. I would like to put wood in the living room . Can I have different wood colors? Thank you
Caroline McDonald
Bernie,
Since the rooms are adjacent, I’d recommend having them match. You may need to refinish your dining room floors so that they coordinate.
Good luck!
Mary
Thank you for the information and beautiful photos! Both of them together convey the message perfectly. I’m still hunting for current photos that depict rooms with non-white wood trim and baseboards. Mine are in a lighter walnut tone. The wood is SO beautiful I simply will not paint it. I’m not afraid to mix wood tones but with so much wood in a room it’s difficult to keep it neutral, bright and airy. Light upholstered furniture, draperies and rugs help but would love to see more expert photos!
Chesna
Hi! I know this is an older episode but I recently listened to it and just wanted to say how much I love the podcast! I listen to it several times a week while cooking dinner. Thanks for all the great content- I especially love the “trails and triumphs” 🙂
Caroline McDonald
Chesna,
So happy to hear that and so thrilled you loved this episode. Maggie is the best, and she had some greats tips. Thanks for listening!
Caroline
covemaven
Love your podcast! I listen regularly. This was probably the most entertaining and informative podcast segment I have listened to in a while. When I saw the topic I was concerned it might be stuffy. I couldn’t have been more wrong! Shane Robuck has a great sense of humor. He is so down to earth and approachable, I felt like I was sitting across the kitchen table from all of you engaged in conversation. I wasnt a bit surprised to hear that he and Bill Peace are good friends. That podcast was also one of my favorites.
Caroline McDonald
I am so happy to hear that!! Shane is great, and I’m glad you got a lot out of this episode. And thank you for listening. I always love reading your comments and feedback on posts and episodes. Thanks for your support!
Bobby Fox
Hello, I’m trying to determine what color throw pillows would go on a white mini bench. My walls are light gray, can someone please help me?
Caroline McDonald
Bobby,
We actually offer free design services online or in our stores. Sign up here and a trained interior designer will help you put together a plan!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Sarah
Perfect timing! I’ve been pondering this idea for my new outdoor dining table. Any favorite chair combos for out there? Haven’t made any purchases yet, so I’m wide open to ideas!
I’m a big fan of the blog and the podcast! 🙂
Caroline McDonald
So happy to hear that, Sarah! And glad you found this post helpful. Outside, I would follow the same rules — especially about finish/color and shape. I love using Suzanne Kasler’s Campaign Chair as a head chair, especially paired with her wicker side chairs. They have similar clean lines, but the campaign chair makes such a great, casual statement at the head of the table. I have four of those campaign chairs at my own house and love them!!
I also love the idea of mixing our gray washed wicker dining chairs with our black metal chairs. The finishes are so similar, but you can play with different pieces.
Sarah
Thank you, Caroline! Love those campaign chairs!
Merrill
Should your club chairs on sides of sofa be the same height as sofa?
Caroline McDonald
Merrill,
This is a great question, and I really think it depends on your space. There are definitely scenarios where you may want a taller chair on the sides like a wingback that would be a good deal taller than your sofa. This works well in large spaces where you’re trying to define a smaller space within a larger room. If you have a small space, I would keep the chairs to the same height as your sofa for a more tailored, open feel.
Best of luck!
Caroline
Debbie Ashton
I have a very bold patterned chair. Stems with oval leaves dark browns, turquoise, burnt orange and deep beige on a cream background. Love the chair. The rest of the furniture is medium brown corduroy. I have gold yellow geometric shapes turquoise smaller geometric shape and a French flowery pillows on the couch looks great. The chair is the same as the couch but opposite from it. With a plain turquoise pillow. I have a mustard golden yellow painted table with deep blue turquoise , silver crystal balls in a turquoise glass wavy dish. I want to add curtains. The room has the windows the wrapped around the furniture. With a garden door. I’m perplexed what kind of material. I want a pattern light and airy but with a colour in it. The problem is the chair. ,… the curtains will be directly behind the multi coloured chair. What should I do.
Julia Whittaker
Am looking for a bright colored tropical area rug with corals and turquoise.
Caroline McDonald
Julia,
What about either our Glynne Rug or our Mayla Rug? Both of these would work with a tropical look!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Clara @Model Home Improvement
Adorable! All I can say is, “wow” and “love it”. Thanks for sharing in detail.
Joy
Love your fresh ideas…thanks
Kacey
Hey gals! Just wanted to drop you a note to say I wish I could be a foursome on the podcast… it always sounds so fun and chock full of advice. It’s one of my favorite podcasts!
Caroline McDonald
Kacey,
Thank you! Thank you! So happy to hear you’re enjoying the show. If you ever find yourself in Atlanta, give us a holler and join us for an episode! We’d love to have you.
Caroline
Alysha
Hi! I’m curious as to what the coffee table (the one with wood top and metal border and legs) in this post is called and where I could find it? I absolutely love the style and would love it for my home! Thank you!
Caroline McDonald
Alysha,
That’s our Durham Coffee Table. So glad you like it!
Caroline
isabellahcen
Ballard Designs always great!
Madison May
Please tell me what color the walls are on page 60 of you March Book?
It is a beautiful touch!
It makes me want to buy everything in the room to make that color!
Caroline McDonald
Madison,
Would you mind describing the room? What pieces are in it? I need more information to help!
Rae
Hi. We are currently in the process of buying a home that has a reddish looking cherry floor. At first, I wanted to match all the wood furniture such as coffee table, sofa table, entry table with the floors but I don’t want them to get lost by doing that. Would a dark wood like expresso or black furniture look good with the more red cherry floors?
Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Rae,
Black or espresso are so different, that I think the contrast will be fine! We always recommend mixing wood finishes in a room to get that collected look!
Good luck,
Caroline
Sybil Inman
How much is the basket with pompous?
Caroline McDonald
Sybil,
Here’s our Tilly Pom Basket: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/tilly-pom-basket/460263
So glad you like it!
Caroline
Niamh
What model is the glass desk? Where can it be purchased? Thanks.
Caroline McDonald
Niamh,
It’s actually made from acrylic, but you can find it here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/alissa-acrylic-console/381624
It’s a gorgeous piece. So glad you like it!
Caroline
Judy Epley
Oh my, this is so helpful! Would love to get this info in a nice printed form. I will print it on my printer but would love something more indepth with all the ideas together in book form.
Thanks so much!
FELICIA
Where did you get the storage cabinets that you use to organize the pet supplies? I’m totally in love with it !
Caroline McDonald
Felicia,
I’m so glad you like this piece! It’s super handy. It’s the Cambridge Storage Cabinet from Ballard Designs.
Caroline
covemaven
Mignonette Green is a retro VW Bug color. http://paintref.com/cgi-bin/paintdetail.cgi?paintx=1959%7CVolkswagen%7CMignonette%20Green%7C51497
Kay
Ive been asking for the paint color name in the bedroom shown in #2- it’s also featured in your catalog behind a pink front door- would also like to know the name of the pink door paint
Thank you for your help
Caroline McDonald
Kay,
The wall color is Sherwin William’s Tricorn Black and the door is Benjamin Moore’s Romance #1333.
So glad you like these spaces!
Caroline
Tracey Barclay
Love Ballard Designs furniture sbd sccesdiries but could use help decorating a new French country hone.
Sarika
Awesome post. Question about those rustic wooden framed mirror, set of 4. Where can i find those? Love them
Caroline McDonald
Sarika,
Is this the mirror you’re asking about? https://www.ballarddesigns.com/garden-district-mirrors/336689
Hopefully it helps!
Caroline
MamaBear
I’ve made this 3x. LOVE LOVE LOVE! I make cupcakes & the texture is incredible! Just don’t over fill… The rims crumble. It’s allot of work… But SO WORTH IT!!! Thanks!
Kimberly Wolfman
Can you tell me the paint color on the wall. I am doing a bedroom for my daughter who love the beach and water. she is 22 . looking for that color. Thank you.
Caroline McDonald
Of course! It’s Benjamin Moore’s Scenic Drive #697. Happy decorating!
megan
Wow that is a really good article! Thank you so much for the wonderful article. I will go with Classic with Style for my Master Bedroom 🙂
Margie
Loved listening to you crazy women?. I saw the ash table, thought it was so cute, then I saw the closet and ?, holy crap thought I was going to pee my pants!!! So beautiful, I would have to turn half of my house into that closet?!
Ofcourse I would LOVE one of everything in your show and blog…,but I would love an invitation (watercolor) just to hang on my door. Everyone would know where it comes from?.
My dog 16 min Schnauzer is also having seizures and poor baby has a bladder inf now, so I know what you are going through?.
I’m actually looking for slip covers for cushions on our chairs on patio at the table, couldn’t find them any suggestions? I also need curtains for the patio. Ok it has a tin roof, table and chairs too large…. but I know curtains would look beautiful!
I think I’ll have some red wine now, dog is askeep?❤️
Karen
Margie — you are so funny! Thanks for reaching out. I don’t think I have any suggestions for slipcovers for cushions other than having them made. It sounds like it would be a very custom project. Maybe just get new cushions??
Hope your Schnauzer stays well!
Karen
covemaven
The links aren’t working.
Caroline McDonald
Oh no! They should be fixed now. Sorry about that!
Sheila Renee Haar
Love this mantel! Is the stonework real masonry or air stone?
Jamie L Lotz
I saw something like this at a homeshow over the weekend. Make your wall-mounted TV look like a painting when its not in use. Pretty cool.
https://www.lifewire.com/turn-your-home-theater-into-an-art-gallery-with-artcast-4083266
Amanda
Wow…I am so inspired! I l am a great fan of pink color, but have never thought about incorporating it into my decor. These are the best ways to decorate with pink color. Thanks for sharing.
Mark Treko
Agree!!
Wendy
I am looking at the pleated couture slipcovers. They are for my dining room chairs. We do not use the chairs a lot but we do have 6 kids. I am trying to decide between Twill or Trilby. Do you have a suggestion for which may work better? I am looking at the grey colors.
Caroline McDonald
Wendy,
Both are great, kid-friendly choices. The Twill is super easy to throw in the wash, but the Trilby has more of a tooth to it, so it’ll stand up to wear and tear for a long time. It’s simply a personal preference!
Good luck!
Téa
Love the podcast! The tip about “accessories not being smaller than a cantaloupe” is VERY helpful!
Caroline McDonald
Téa,
I’m so glad you enjoyed this episode. I agree — that’s a great tip from Rachel. We loved having her, so I’m glad you found it helpful!
Caroline
Felice Magz
My question is when designing one area or one room would it not be wise to mix grays? After listening to one of your podcast explaining how Grays basically have three undertones which are blue, green, and purple. Would you need to stick with one undertone? Does that same rule apply to off whites too? Thanks, Felice M.
Caroline McDonald
Felice,
I believe we actually discussed this during the show, but Maria’s suggestion was to pick maybe 2 different undertones but no more than that. It’s not necessary to match absolutely everything, but you don’t want to bring in too many undertones or the space will feel chaotic. Another great thing to consider is with building materials and finishes. Maybe choose all the same undertone for those fixed surfaces, then work in a different undertone in your decor. That way you have an equal amount of both, but if you choose to change your color palette, all of the fixed things (countertops, tiles, paint) are consistent.
Hopefully this helps. Thanks for listening!
Caroline
covemaven
With respect to the conversation regarding Karaoke, I believe the artist’s name is Louis Prima, not Louis Parma. He was also the voice of King Louie in Disney’s original animated movie, The Jungle Book.
Karen
You are so right!! thank you so much 🙂
Karen
franki parde
You know, I’ve never been more drawn to black ‘n white!! Especially, now, living in a log cabin those darker colors with “pops of white!” Who kNEW!! franki
Sky
I love the style of this dining room!! If one already have similar chairs how many yards of each fabric would you recommend for reupholstering 4 chairs like this?? Also, do you have any other recommendations for 2 end chairs in a different style than the ones pictured? Beautiful design again!!
Caroline McDonald
Sky,
An upholstered or someone who can make slipcovers would be able to tell you exactly how many yards they’ll need. Every craftsman is different, so check with them before you order fabric!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Chris
Realize this post is a couple years old but I live in Atlanta now and just curiuos what neighborhood this is in. Grant Park? Inman? Candler? Oakhurst?
Beautiful home. Thanks for sharing!
Amanda
I love these space saving ideas. It is usually a problem to arrange the furniture when you have small space. These ideas are very useful for furniture arrangement. Thanks for sharing.
Jeannie
Hello, can you tell me the size of the existing rug? Thank you 🙂
Amanda
Adorable bedrooms and pictures! I fall in love with makeover of these bedrooms. I am totally inspired with your work. Thanks and keep sharing.
KATHY
Thank you for your website, it really helps a person like me who has no decorating sense whatsoever :). I did have a question, above you were talking about how to choose the width of the panel for your window:
“If you plan on closing your curtains, choose a panel width that is two to two-and-a-half times the width of your window. A lightweight sheer fabric might require more fullness, while a heavier fabric like velvet or chenille might require less fullness (no more than twice the width of your window). However, if you’re hanging drapes just to frame the window, you can round down one to one-and-a-half times the width.”
When you say “choose a panel width that is two to two-and-a-half times the width of your window” , if I am buying two panels, do I buy so that each panel is 2-2 1/2 times the width or so that combined each panel is 2-2 1/2 times the width. I know this should be obvious to me, but I am so not decorating-minded (wish I were).
Thank you.
Caroline McDonald
Kathy,
You’re right that is a bit confusing. You want the combined width of your panels (no matter how many you’re using) to be 2.5 times the width of your window!
Glad you asked for clarification.
Good luck!
Mrs. Eyler
Thank you fir this article! It is always inspirational to see design ideas with pictures AND photos! I can’t wait for spring to okay around with my screened porch design!
Sami
Hi Girls,
It is nice to hear you guys talk about issues and thoughts pertaining to us, La Femme who cares.
Fay Penfold
I only like to use one euro placed against head of bed ,then to the left ,twosleeping pillows lying flat on top of each other ,then in front of the euro on the right one standard pillow standing up .then one large pillow directly in front in the middle ,then one pretty cushion square then one rectangular cushion in front .Does that sound ok ?
Gina Crawford
Do you know the paint color of the kitchen island on page 47 of the Feb 2018 catalog? Thanks!!
Caroline McDonald
Gina,
I don’t know this color. It was already painted and we don’t have the paint name. I’d take this photograph to your paint store and have them match it.
Best of luck!
maggie
Hi. I love your post.
1. why do some of your pictures have a coffee table and then a smaller accent table?
2. Any size suggestions: I have a small sectional. The distance between my chaise and the arm is 53″. I tried a 38″ w oval table but it was too big. What size round coffee table would you suggest?
Caroline McDonald
Maggie,
If your room can accommodate both side tables and a coffee table, we recommend both. They serve different purposes! Someone sitting at the end of the sofa may not be able to easily reach a coffee table depending on the length of the sofa, and someone sitting in the middle of the sofa isn’t able to reach the side table easily.
In terms of picking a coffee table to work with your sofa, consider laying out your room in our Room Planner tool. It’ll help you visualize the room and you can test out how far someone would need to reach and how much walking space you’ll have around the table.
Good luck and thanks for your question!
Caroline
Amanda
Please manufacture and sell the green vintage phone! I was disappointed when it was not the item for sale, but rather the lamp.
Marjorie Rodriguez
I lost my beautiful two story home in the Santa Rosa fire. Nothing survived. . .only me.
When I find a new home I intend to fill it with all the beautiful things I have seen at Ballards.
Looking forward to having so many delightful items. This is what keeps me going during this very difficult time. Thanks for being here!
M.Rodriguez (a long time happy customer)
Joy Proctor
If I could have a house full of only Ballard Designs furniture/furnishings/art, et cetera, et cetera, I would be a most happy camper!!! Have ALWAYS loved Ballard Designs. Thanks for these wonderful ideas!!!!
Caroline McDonald
Joy, so happy to hear that! We all agree as well!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Kristin
The tortoise side tables!!! Please recreate those!!
Caroline McDonald
Kristin,
You’re right, these are fabulous. We actually have some burlwood side tables coming out this summer that have a very similar silhouette and finish, so definitely look for those!
So glad you liked Maggie’s house. Thanks for reading.
Caroline
SusanM
I meant that the show notes’ links enhance the podcast.
SusanM
I loved this episode and Jennifer. She inspired me to get Dorothy Draper’s Decorating is Fun! from the library. And I’m on a waiting list for her book, In with the Old, which I may need to buy after I’ve had time to look at it. The show notes’ links really enhance the blog. Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Susan,
So glad you’ve found them helpful! Yes, we loved sitting down with Jennifer. She’s such a wealth of information, and we’ll need to have her back. She’s just that smart and charming.
Thanks for listening. Happy decorating!
Caroline
Ivona
This home is so timelessly warm and inviting – I love the cohesive use of gold touches throughout and the eclectic mix of neutrals. Great inspiration here!
Linda
What color rug can I use for a multi colored quilt? Colors have blue yellow coral turquoise and navy
Caroline McDonald
Linda,
It’s hard to make a suggestion without seeing your quilt, but we do have free design services in our store and online. Trained interior designers can help you pick pieces to complement your quilt! Sign up here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/design-solutions/content
Happy Decorating,
Caroline
Kathy
Please stop bashing builders. Builders hire designers to choose floor, tile, cupboards, paint colors etc. The designers pick what people want and will buy. Builders don’t care what color anything thing is as long as someone will buy it. People choose new homes because they like new, fresh and trendy. Builders are an easy target but a builder can be an important asset to an informed designer. If the buyer really loves their home or wants to customize it they often ask the builder for designer recommendations. This disfunctional relationship between designers and builders should stop. I think both would get more business.
Caroline McDonald
Kathy,
That’s a such good point. Builders certainly aren’t the enemy, although it’s hard to name where some of those design ‘oops’ moments come from. Maybe we should do an episode where we talk about how to get the most out of your relationship with a builder and how to avoid those ‘oops’ moments if you’re building a new space!
You’re right, some of that blame is misplaced and there are certainly builders who have excellent taste and do great work!
Thanks for listening and for sending us your feedback.
Caroline
karen
can you tell me how many yards of fabric it takes to cover a Dayna seat cushion?
Thank you….I bought six
Karen
Ann
Need help with color of curtains with couch and red rug
Caroline McDonald
Ann,
We actually offer free design services online or in our stores. Sign up here and a trained interior designer will help you put together a plan!
Happy decorating,
Caroline
Cheryl
Hello I bought these two beautiful velvet. blue barrel chairs to replace to other chairs in my living room but they are smaller than the other .Any idea to decorate so you don’t focus on there size
Caroline McDonald
Cheryl,
Maybe add a great end table with a lamp and some striking pillows!
jeri berkowitz
I have a question. In some designs the sheer drapery is hung from the wall height while in others it is above the window and allowed to puddle. I have sheers on order that would kiss the floor if hung from that height and have a 7 inch puddle. Is that too much fabric? I need your opinion as to which would work best for a linen sheer fabric?
Thank you so much,
Jeri Berkowitz
Caroline McDonald
Jeri,
7 inches of puddle is probably a bit much. Can you hang the panels a bit higher? An extra 2-3 inches is fine, but 7 inches will collect dirt and dust.
Mary Beth Simon
Such wonderful and welcome ideas. Thank you!
Karen Mashmoor
Hello and good morning! I love your work! I was wondering if you could tell me what type of stone and mortar was used in the fireplace on the first photo? It’s absolutely beautiful.
Thank you,
Karen
Caroline McDonald
Karen,
I’m so sorry, but I have no information about this fireplace! You could maybe ask a contractor or a stone mason if they could help you figure out the stone and mortar?
Good luck!
Caroline
Alesia Myers
December issue bedroom page 93, color of wall please?
Caroline McDonald
Alesia,
It’s Sherwin Williams’ Umber #6146. You can see all of the colors here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2017/09/holiday-2017-paint-colors-from-our-catalog/
Diana Lopes
Love the post! It makes holiday decorating much easier and will definitely make me stress less about it, lol. Thanks for sharing!
Jan Jorgenson
I saw a set of three canvas wall hangings with various birds o them . I would like information on them, ie price and how to order.
Caroline McDonald
Jan,
So glad you saw something you like. It’s hard to know which art pieces you are talking about without more information, but you could see if what you’re looking for it here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/decor-more/wall-art/animal/
Those are all of our bird-related art pieces. Hopefully what you saw is in there!
Caroline
Lovie
I’m absolutely in LOVE with the blue colored living room with the two coral pictures! Do you happen to know what paint color is that?
Cynthia
Hello,
I love the look and colors in the “Velvet Everywhere” pic and was hoping you could tell me the name of the paint color as well as the rug? Thank You!!
Caroline McDonald
Cynthia,
So happy to hear that you love this room! The paint color is Benjamin Moore’s Icy Blue #2057-70. The rug is our Adelaide Rug.
Happy Decorating!
Lovie
Hi Caroline! Everything looks wonderful! Do you happen to know the blue paint color of the room with the 2 coral pictures? I’m absolutely in LOVE!
Caroline McDonald
Lovie,
I’m happy to track down the paint color for you, but I can’t figure out which image you’re talking about. Can you describe it for me some more?
Lovie
Absolutely! It’s on the left side- white couch with a paisley rug. There are two coral blue pictures and two hanging lamps. Hope this helps! Thanks so much!
Caroline McDonald
Lovie,
The paint color is Benjamin Moore’s Bachelor Blue. See it here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2015/04/may-july-2015-paint-colors/
Janice
I purchased the Louis mirror and am in need of some guidance on the proper height to hang it. I normally use the rule that the center of whatever I am hanging should be at eye level (60″ from the floor). Would I use that same rule to hang this mirror? The mirror will hang in my foyer and I have a planter to place under it. Thank you for your advice.
Caroline McDonald
Janice,
Yes, unless you’re hanging the mirror over a piece of furniture, I would say you want the middle of the mirror to hang at eye level. If it’s over a piece of furniture, I’d suggest the bottom of mirror to hang maybe 3-4 inches above the furniture piece. Of course it’s hard to say without seeing a photo!
Good luck!
Caroline
Karen Dellinger
I was looking at the website how to decorate and in the section Rugs & Fabrics: Lessons in Layering there is a color scheme labeled transitional. I would like to order the Tahira Rug (Ivory). Can you help me locate it?
Caroline McDonald
Karen,
Yes, you can find the Tahira Rug here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/tahira-rug/300691
Edie mosley
What color is the wall paint on page 93 of this catalog
Caroline McDonald
Edie,
I’d be happy to help you figure out the paint color. Would you mind describing the room for me?
Doris A Zumbro
Hi, I ordered the banquette in Ellie Snow and my walls are a Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter, chairs distressed black ladder back style, and the table is round with a black base and brown stained top……I don’t have any idea what color of area rug to buy. I welcome all suggestions.
Thank you.
Caroline McDonald
Doris,
Since your room is mostly neutral — whites, blacks, and greige — I think you could go lots of different directions with your rug. It all depends on what vibe you want to create. Do you want add color? Or do you want to stay more neutral?
With what you’ve described, I would choose something with both grays, whites, and tans, like our Sumter Rug or Suzanne Kasler’s Emilyn Rug. Both have a neutral palette, won’t compete with the pattern of our Ellie Snow fabric, and have a luxe sheen to them that will work well in a dining area.
Best of luck,
Caroline
Marie Manning
I have a couch and loveseat in a floral pattern which has many colours in it and would like to know what colour(s) should I choose for pillows; the main colour (rose/rust) or a secondary colour (yellow/gold) or third colour (blue/teal) or a mix of colours? There are also a number of shades of green for the vines and leaves which match a large chair/ottoman as well. I’d like to put 5 pillows on each one. Does this make any sense?
Caroline McDonald
Marie,
Send us some photos of your space, including the fabrics, and we’ll be happy to make some recommendations. Upload and send details using this form, and one of our designers will reach out to you!
Thanks for sending in your question,
Caroline
Janel
I have a dining room table that is 144″ x 48″ wide. Ceiling height is 134″
I want to use 2 chandeliers but see so many conflicting diameters. I’d rather go bigger than have the fixtures lost in the room.
Advice would be nice to have!
Caroline McDonald
Janel,
Since you’ve got such a long table, I definitely agree that you should use two chandeliers instead of one! I would choose something at least 24″ in diameter which is half the depth of your table. You could probably go a little bit bigger (up to about 36″) if you want more drama, but I think two 24″ width chandeliers would look fantastic.
Best of luck!
Caroline
Jeanne Larson
Hello!
Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy Ballard Designs. I have made several purchases over the years and still love the rug and pictures I bought! The quality is amazing.
I devour each catalog and look to them for inspiration. I’ve recently found your podcast and it’s one of my favorites. The theme music is so fun and jazzy-makes me want to dance! LOL
Thanks for keeping me entertained while I do mundane housework!
Jeanne
PS: I believe the title for this article should be 2017-not 2018?! I’m sure you’re already looking ahead and planning for the 2018 holiday season, but I’m not finished with 2017 yet! Haha!!
Caroline McDonald
Jeanne,
Um wow, you’re totally right. It’s 2017 not 2018. Doh! Total typo on my part. I’ve fixed it now.
So happy to hear that you are enjoying the podcast and “devour” the catalog! That is so exciting to hear. Let us know if you have any decorating dilemmas so we can answer them on the show.
Thanks for listening,
Caroline
Kikey
Where would I be able to find the mirrors in the original wall? Copied ur idea but can seem to find those.
Thank u
Caroline McDonald
Kikey,
Here are the mirrors in that image: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/ProductSearch2#w=kasler%20sunburst
Tricia
Love your podcast! And James Farmer was an especially delightful guest. Have him on again soon! Listening to your podcasts, though, is hazardous to my Amazon account. So far, I’ve bought Meg Braff’s, Vern Yip’s, and James Farmer’s books!
Caroline McDonald
Tricia,
Thank you so much for listening! So, so happy to hear that you’re enjoying the podcast! Isn’t James great? We’ll definitely have to have him back.
Love hearing your feedback and appreciate you taking the time to comment.
Happy decorating!
Caroline
Sharon
I have aqua walls, white sofas. What color area rugs? I have oak hardwood floors.
Caroline McDonald
Sharon,
It’s hard to make a suggestion without seeing photos. Send some to us using this form, and we’ll have one of our designers make some suggestions for you!
Caroline
Carlin Scott
Hello! I’m curious about the bookshelves in the “Cozy Glamor” space. Are they available to purchase?
Thank you!
Caroline McDonald
Carlin,
So glad you like this space. The bookcase in that room is Miles Redd’s Miles Bookcase. It has lacquered shelves and polished nickel hardware — so glam!
Caroline
Stacia Busch
what color are the walls in the last photo?
Caroline McDonald
Stacia,
Unfortunately I don’t have any information about the paint color in this room. We actually shoot in real homes, so we don’t always have that information!
April Edwards
Do you use nine clips regardless of the width of the panel?
Olivia Harting
Hi – this is beautiful. Do you know the color of the trim in this room? I know the walls are Benjamin Moore Jute but wondering about the trim? Thanks!!
Shanna
Hello, I have a 12′ ceiling and large space. The 10′ and 11′ trees are harder to find than the 9′ and 12′ . I want to get a 10′ or 11′ but would a 9′ be too small with the stand and a topper? Thanks in advance!
Laren Bridges
Nov. 2017 catalog, page 73. Beautiful bronze looking paint on bedroom wall…can you tell me the color? Bed has tufted cream headboard, garland over the artwork, green and cream bedding.
Caroline McDonald
Laren,
That’s Sherwin Williams’ Umber #6146. You can find all of the colors from that catalog here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2017/09/holiday-2017-paint-colors-from-our-catalog/
So glad you liked this space!
Caroline
Shannon
We have 13′ ceilings in our new home. Seems like the tree sizes are either 9′ or 12′ … afraid 12′ might be a bit too big, but 9′ too small. What do you think?
Lee Avnet
I absolutely love the striped ottomans in second photo. Where are those from?
Caroline McDonald
Lee,
Those are our Cooper Cubes in a striped fabric that we no longer carry, although we do have lots of striped fabrics to choose from! So glad you like them. Thanks for reading.
Caroline
Susan
I am so thankful for this article. I saw the rooms in the catalog and I immediately had to figure out the beautiful blue. Thank you! My master bedroom will be magnificent!
Sandy
my understanding is that the natural woven sand cannot be used on furniture at all.
Caroline McDonald
Sandy,
It can be used on upholstered furniture, but only on certain pieces!
Sandra bowen
I am waiting on theb table. I have received a three seater bench and three Brooke dinning chairs. I am worried about how this will all mix together. I ordered the Brooke chair by accident. This set will go at the ack of a long den. Just curious to see if you have a picture of this grouping as the table is on back order thank you
Chris Acree
This Podcast was both fun and informational. I loved getting to know Vern and all of you!
Great takeaways! I cant wait to get Vern’s book Design Wise for myself and friends.
Laura
Also, where are the pictures of the same listener’s decorator question. I am so curious about this air vent register and where it is compared to the bed, etc.
Caroline McDonald
Laura,
I can’t believe I forgot to add the pictures! They’re in there now though. Thanks for mentioning it. And also thanks for listening!
Caroline
Laura
Yes, the magazine Highlights is still around and indeed, I think the most popular part is the Hidden Picture. Now the same company makes entire books on just Hidden Pictures!
Afbraakwerken
Wow! All the front door festive designs look very pretty. Thanks for sharing such awesome ideas.
Mike
Is the small flocked Christmas tree in the photo under the title “Designer Doors” the same flocked tree that Ballard Designs is selling for $119? The tree in your photo looks like it is fuller and has a heavier flock than the one on the Ballard website.
Caroline McDonald
Mike,
Yep, it is the one for $119. It’s Suzanne Kasler’s Flocked Tree. SO glad you like it. It may look slightly different depending on how we’ve fluffed it for the photograph.
Hopefully that helps. So glad you like it.
Caroline
Téa
Great interview w/ Vern Yip! Interesting to hear his back story learn more about him. Thanks for the inspiration
Tanya
Oops never mind, I found the link for decorating dilemmas after I posted. Thanks.
Tanya
Hi There,
This podcast was wonderful and Vern is amazing, what a neat and accomplished guy! And I just love his decorating philosophy and drive to personalize spaces.
About the podcast generally, I have been listening to the podcast, and just went back to the early ones and listened to the one about styling a bed and making beds. I also learned on the earlier podcasts that Caroline runs the blog and answers questions. Not sure if this is true, but if so, I just want to tell you how much I enjoy the podcast and listening to the three of you. I actually crack up out loud, which I’m sure you’ve heard plenty! You seem like such a sweetheart, Caroline, and Karen Mooney is a hoot! Taryn’s stories are hilarious too. I’m so envious of her passion for travel, it sounds so fun, though I am a homebody at heart. I know those earlier podcasts were a while ago, but out of them, I have several questions/requests:
1. I would like to hear more about bed making. On that podcast, the stylist said “no one sees your sheets,” but I have always made my bed with a flat fitted sheet and a top sheet that I roll back over my down comforter or quilt, so you do see it. So…do none of you use top sheets, or fold them back to be revealed? If so, do you fold back your quilt or duvet or just leave it up with your pillows on it? I cannot leave home without making my bed, and to take care of the wrinkled sheet issue (that you do see on my bed), I fold the top sheet and quilt back, then tuck the entire quilt along with the sheet between the 2 mattresses. It does give it a polished look, but I’m so curious about the sheet issue…I read recently that Emily Henderson doesn’t even put on a top sheet and I was just amazed, I admit!
2. Like others (I now realize from the podcast and other blogs), I am fascinated by paint color and “getting it right.” I always want to know a paint color even though I know full well my room won’t turn out like the magazine picture for the reasons you ladies mention. If possible, please do a podcast about paint color and how to choose a paint color, what colors you think work time and again, your favorites, etc. Cannot get enough of this topic!
3. Thanks so much for making my day happier with your podcast, I hope to send a specific decorating dilemma soon (I have plenty!). Where do we send those by the way?
Caroline McDonald
Thank you so much for listening and leaving a comment. I’m with you on using top sheets. I can’t imagine not using a top sheet because I love that crisp feel of a percale sheet and wouldn’t want to have just a quilt or duvet as my blanket. Like you, I fold the top sheet and quilt or coverlet back and tuck it on the sides when I make my bed every morning, but I think it’s really just a personal preference. Like Beth said, she lays one giant linen sheet over the whole bed after she’s done making it.
In terms of paint colors, hopefully our episode with Maria Killam answered some of your questions. Paint colors are so, so tricky, and sadly I think it’s mostly just an issue of trial and error. Taryn and Karen are a little more of the ‘wing it’ type where as I tested a million giant swatches in my house before painting. I think in one of our episodes I mentioned how before moving into our house, I painted large pieces of dry wall from the home improvement store and also one foot sections of moulding with probably 4 wall colors and 4 trim colors, then took all of them over to my house before we closed. That way I could move the swatches from room to room to see how they’d look and see different moulding colors next to different paint colors. It was a bit tedious but it helped me feel confident before having our entire house painted right after closing.
I think the biggest issue with paint color is not knowing what you want. I honestly have never had that issue because I typically get some very specific color in mind of what I want, then test like crazy until I’ve found just what I’ve imagined. If you don’t know what you want, then that’s a whole other ballgame! Now with that said, Karen, Taryn, and I all really enjoyed Maria Killam’s workshop, and while I haven’t read any of her e-books, I bet they’d be as helpful as her workshop with helping instruct on how to know what you want.
Janette Eaton
I absolutely love your creative ideas.
I’ve been a follower for years.
After reading this post there was mention that your company offers decorating assistance. HELP. I purchased a vivid pasley rug for our enclosed lania .I want to create an additional room. I’m stuck can I receive some suggestions, ie pattern chices, furniture, lighting (lamp) accent wall color. .etc. Thank you
Carolyn Neblett
Ya’ll- I listened to the podcast this morning on my way to work and almost drove off the road! Thank you so much for the great advice- I’m thrilled. Bill’s thoughts were amazing and Karen was exactly right with her ottoman/chair situation assessment. I loved the suggestions about moving the TV, trying a sectional and am working on the room layout now. And thank you for confirming my fears about the lampshades- that will be my first purchase!
Love the podcast and each of you- can’t wait to get to start transforming my space.
Thanks again!
Carolyn
Caroline McDonald
Carolyn,
So happy you found our suggestions helpful and that you enjoyed this episode. You can tell we obviously had lots of thoughts on your room from several different perspectives!
Please send pictures as your make changes. We’d love to see where it ends up!
Happy Decorating,
Caroline
Christine Bell
I want ready-made drapes to hang right up to top of our 9′ high ceilings. Which length drape with which type rod will achieve this please?
Caroline McDonald
Christine,
This is tricky, but I would recommend ordering the 108″ panels and hanging them as close to the ceiling as possible. They’ll be a little long once you add hardware (probably another 2-3″) so either let them puddle a bit or have them hemmed at your dry cleaner.
Best of luck!
Caroline
Jennifer
Please tell me what her exterior color is!!
Caroline McDonald
I believe it’s China White!
covemaven
Love the sunburst chargers!
Sherita Thompson
Hi, I am really bad at decorating. I just purchased a home and would love some help with my dinning room…I would love to do white sheet curtains because it’s gives a very clean look, what is thought? The color of the room is cream/tan and White
Caroline McDonald
Sherita,
We’d be happy to help you! Send us some photos and a description of your dining room using this form, and one of our designers will make some suggestions for you.
Caroline
Sally Fumich
Please suggest coordinating upholstery fabric ideas to use along with an animal skin fabric (beige zebra) on two matching armed side chairs. I want you use the animal skin on the seat, wish to have a different/complimentary fabric on the chair back. The chair back is round shaped. The arms each have little upholstered pads. Also, the chair back is also upholstered on the backside. My room is traditional/transitional. I hope you can help! Thank you.
Kristen
This was a great article – but I am struggling to apply it to our living room! We started with a wall colorful, which is beautiful: Tranquility by Benjamin Moore. Then found gorgeous linen curtains with a matching embroidered design. We added an off-white sectional and went for a little splash of a pattern with the pillows. Then a bigger splash of a pattern with the recliner. Now I feel like these little moves we’ve made into patterns don’t necessarily work – and we still have to choose a rug! How much is too much? Is it possible to get a rug that ties everything together? Do I go solid with the rug and keep my fingers crossed? Help!
Caroline McDonald
Kristen,
It’s hard to make any suggestions without seeing the space. I would say that you should pick a rug that you really love, regardless of whether it will work with any pillows you’ve already picked out. Pillows are easy to change if they don’t complement the rug, but a rug is an important part of a rug. If you want a patterned rug, then find one you really like and work from there. If you like the look of a solid rug, that will of course work, but get something you really like. Don’t compromise on a piece that big.
If you’d like one of our designers to make more pointed suggestions, submit some photos and a description of your room here.
Best of luck!
Caroline
Michele
I two black buffalo plaid chairs and beige walls. What color/type of rug do I use?
Sarah
I love the Tempe Star color! I’m trying to work up the courage to paint my downstairs a deep, dramatic color like that…
Caroline McDonald
Go for it! It’s just paint. You can always paint over it!
Varvara
Hello! Could you please tell where we can buy dark chandelier in the second picture?
Caroline McDonald
Varvara,
This is our Luce Chandelier in iron: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/luce-10-light-chandelier/412908
covemaven
This was a fantastic episode! Bill Peace was concrete and concise in his response to your questions, yet loaded his answers with great information. I truly enjoyed listening to this installment of your podcast.
Caroline McDonald
Yay, so glad you enjoyed this episode. He’s super talented but also just super nice! Don’t you love when that happens?
Sarah O.
Hi! I discovered your podcast last Saturday, and I LOVE it. I think I’ve listened to half of all of your episodes in the last week, and I’ve learned so much. This episode was really helpful and so practical.
In the future, I would love to see an episode on how to do lighting well. It seems like lighting done poorly is frequently mentioned as a pet peeve of designers, and inquiring minds want to know how to do it well! 🙂 My husband and I are beginning the restoration of a 1940 cottage and lots of lighting decisions are approaching!
Caroline McDonald
Sarah,
I’m so glad you found us! Thank you for listening and for leaving us a comment. We love hearing from you!
We actually have an episode scheduled to record about lighting, so stay tuned for that, although it may not publish until early next year. But we’ll get to it, we promise!
Sounds like you have a great project going on with your home. Best of luck with your renovation!
Caroline
Brittany
I love your style! Can you tell me where the arched mirror above the side table in the Master is from? Thank you!
Caroline McDonald
Brittany,
These are from Ballard Designs but they’re discontinued!
Marcy
My front room faces NW it is a inner room there are no windows the light comes in from the front door, of the foryed as well as the EXLARGE arched window in the diningroom which faces NW as well. The front room is jointed by a sunroom and a double sided fireplace flanked with a arched on each side.Right now both rooms are painted grey I would like to change the color but I am unsure what color to use, because from the front door you can see the kitchen,the sun room, diningroom, and front room I could use some help.
Heather Daly
Hi Marcy,
It’s a little difficult to make paint suggestions without seeing pictures of the space. If you’d like we’d be happy to help you with your decorating question, just submit your question here and our team of design consultants will be happy to assist!
Good Luck!
~Heather
Joanne
What other links have this paint color so we can see it in different lights and in different settings?
Grondwerken
Very informative and useful article on layouting a home. Thanks for sharing it.
Tina
Looking for some help to decorate small living room with white sectional sofa and love seat. Having trouble with color.
Lauren M
I love love love this podcast! But the sound with episode 32 and 33 were off! I kept having to turn it all the way up to hear, but then when you all would laugh it would almost blow out my speakers. I have never experienced this before with your podcasts but I had to stop both of these before finishing them because there was so much variance in the volume. Don’t wanna be Debbie Downer, but thought you should know. Still love the podcast!
Caroline McDonald
Lauren,
Thank you for letting me know. I’ll check it out and if the problem!
Caroline
Cara
All beautiful and so different from each other. I esp like #2. Thanks for the great tips!
Caroline McDonald
Glad you like them, Cara. Thanks for leaving a comment!
Shirley McCormack
These are all great ideas and I try to use them to the best of my ability when we know we’re having guest coming.
covemaven
We’ve recently rebuilt an addition on our ground level that necessitated changing out one of two double hung windows to an awning window in the bedroom above. This could be a perfect solution for not only downplaying the half-height window, but increasing the feeling of more light in the room. The bed is currently on the wall opposite this shortened window. If we moved it out of its existing location, it would free up wall space to relocate the dresser/mirrow in its place, and that would help bounce more light around the room. Thanks for the inspiration!
Caroline McDonald
Awesome! So glad you found this helpful!!
Natasha
What did you get the tree in the livain’t room? I absolutely love it!
Caroline McDonald
Natasha,
That is our Potted Olive Tree. So glad you like it!
Caroline
covemaven
I really enjoyed listening to the podcast and hearing Miriam’s expertise. I particularly appreciated the information about furniture spacing and providing ample room for traffic flow. It seems I’ll be reworking some of my spaces. In the process, I think I’ll get that “breathing room” that has been eluding me. After hearing Miriam outline her approach for laying out a room, I’m even more excited to hear back on the design dilemma I submitted!!
Caroline McDonald
Yay, so happy to hear you enjoyed this episode so much! We’re planning to do more themed/subject matter episodes like this one!
Caroline
TINAMARIE
Thank you so much for such a great article on lighting! You covered every room for me and now I know exactly how much lighting I need in every space. Please when you can do a lighting article on the outside of the home as well for I am struggling, there as well. Especially, when it comes to lighting the back of the house?
Thanks again Ballard
Cara
Love your podcast! I look forward to listening to every one. This was an especially great episode–I appreciate the Ballard process of creating products, and Miriam’s advice was so helpful. Thank you and keep up the great work!
Ahmed
Gorgeous home. Always loved your homes, Miles! How do you go about managing hanging pictures on mirrored walls, since I’ve included mirrored panels in our current home redo?! Which I could attach a picture and receive your blessing of the design 🙂
Kristie Oblak
I’m interested in finding the paint color in the room with the paisley couch and grey curtains. Is there a way you could direct me please? thank you, Kristie
Caroline McDonald
Kristie,
I’m sorry it took me a minute to track down the living room you were looking for. I believe the color is Benjamin Moore’s Jamesboro Gold — it’s the orange paisley couch with the orange/gold wall color?
Hopefully this answers your question!
Carolin
Sara
I love the large painting against the dark teal wall. Is it available for sale?
Caroline McDonald
Sara,
Thanks for your comment. Both paintings on the dark teal wall are available. They’re by artist Rick Reinert.
Happy decorating!
june muraco
Hello, Just received your catalog, after not accessing your site for some time or having an updated version of your catalog. I must say I was never so disappointed, for example; your choice of decorating pieces, the overly large accessories, too many, too much rig-a-ma-role, too busy, so cluttered, so different to your old style, which was absolutely beautiful, restful, etc., in my opinion. I was uncomfortable just looking at the photos, and would never be comfortable in a room decorated in that particular style, which would be what by name? Not eclectic I don’t think. Absolutely a reverse to what I was used to seeing. Any complaints about it, any change in sales? Total chaos. Thank you for allowing me to comment, meant in the most positive vein of criticism. Ms. J. Muraco
Carla Macynski
I have a two story living room facing a lake with a loft in the top rear & above the entry way & my open kitchen is to the right facing the lake & the MBR is on the left facing the lake. We have large windows in the front so there’s lots of light. This entire room is painted a soft gold & I have a black baby grand with a black leather couch & dining table & several other black accents. My kitchen cabinets are a soft beige stained ash. I’m having the island stained a medium grey (granite counter is a grey, black peach mix with all SS appliances) I would like to paint the kitchen walls a light grey & the hood a darker grey & carry this same darker grey into the LR on my two story fire place. Can I accent a few walls in my LR with a lighter grey color to blend with a few gold walls that I already have or is it a faux paw to have different colored walls in one room?
Heather Daly
Hi Carla,
Without pictures it’s a little tough to make a paint suggestion, but before you paint would you consider adding other accents with gray? A rug or pillows with the right color gray could bring the color from the kitchen over into your living room.
Good Luck!
~Heather
Trollopian
Lovely home and good advice, but one correction: this house is not a bungalow. A bungalow is a particular type of one-story house (or “one-and-a-half” stories, with a second floor featuring dormer windows under a steeply-pitched roof) that has a big front porch under a deep overhang.
Linda Dalbo
Hi,I just purchased a gray sofa and a red accent chair. The problem is my carpet is rust color and my living room open into my dining room. For now I would like to tie everything in with an area rug in the living room until I put hardwood floors in next year. What colors would you suggest for an area rug that would work?
Heather Daly
Hi Linda!
We would love to see some photos of your space to help you determine what the best color rug would be for your living room. Submit your decorating questions here to have our expert design consultants make the best suggestions for your space.
~Heather
Elizabeth Whiffen
Hi I adore Ballard Designs! I have 2 Chandaliers from you. They must be discontinued, but very similar to you 10 arm Luce. They are 44″ wide. I have a breakfast nook and adjoining dining room. They are the right size length + width = size, but my ceilings are only 8 feet tall. I always believe go big or go home. I guess I am asking for permission to hang them. I feel like they are so light and airy, not bulky, and not gaudy, that I still can go for it. Do you agree? They are 3 years old and I saved for 6 months to buy them. I cannot part with, or replace them. Do people have to live with little chandaliers because their ceilings are low?
Thank you,
Elizabeth
Caroline McDonald
Elizabeth,
It’s hard to say without seeing the space, but if you don’t have to walk under them (since they’re over tables), it should be fine. I say hang them!
Best of luck. We’re so happy to hear that you love your chandeliers.
Caroline
Snarky404
I made this salad for a summer luncheon and it was a huge hit! Fresh, tangy, colorful and delicious. That Dennis Dean is a genius!!
Britta
Hey ladies! Love the podcast. These last couple weeks though have been so so quiet. I can hardly hear and then when my next podcast in my list plays my eardrums are blown out. Just a heads up!
joanne dimeff
I love your podcast! Very entertaining way to take my dog for our morning walk — the time just flies! But, yes, I’m in the middle of the Karen Fleenor podcast and there’s a high pitched sound running in the background throughout, just as the last commenter said
….
Darci
Hey girls I’m addicted to your podcast!! I’ve just finished listening to every single episode and I feel like you are all friends of mine now. The Melanie Turner episode was amazing- not only because of her wonderful decorating advice, but listening to her talk about her memory/mood boards was so inspirational–Yeah!!! I live on Peaks Island in Maine- so I have a little kinship with Taryn. MDI is one of our favorite family places to visit. I’m looking forward to hearing more and please let me know how I can be included in your bloggers conference at Ballard Design. You can find me at http://www.backshorenotes.com
Caroline McDonald
Darci,
Thank you so much for listening! I’m so happy you found us and that you’ve been making your way through all of our episodes. Melanie Turner is so lovely. I’m glad you enjoyed her episode!
Mary Duffy
Is there a version that will work on an iPad?
Karen
Since this uses “flash” it won’t work on an ipad 🙁
Cheryl
How can we see the style of the designers? Id like to talk to one but want one with a style that I like too.
Thank you- Cheryl W.
Caroline McDonald
Cheryl,
Do you mean the designers from our Design Solutions team that answer our decorating dilemmas?
We don’t have a list or examples of their work, but perhaps if you describe your style for me we can pair you with someone whose tastes reflect yours.
Have you submitted a dilemma yet?
Ashley Pedersen
Hi! Love the article and Natalie’s home. Any idea where the scalloped light fixture in the nursery is from?
Caroline McDonald
Ashley,
It’s from Anthropologie — not sure if they still have it though.
Donna Perron
I have the 1970 wood panel walls. I do want to wood flooring down, and i have read on here to go light. Well my husband is telling that grey flooring would go good with med-dark wood paneling. Please help, I can’t visualize it going to together. Please help!!
Caroline McDonald
Donna,
We’d love to help. Do you have some photos you can send us? Submit this form and one of our designers will offer you some guidance: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/send-us-your-own-decorating-dilemma/
Caroline
Louise Squire
I would like to access your free service in hanging a group of 5 photos in the dining room. Would this be possible?
Caroline McDonald
Louisa,
Absolutely. Submit your question and some photos using this form and our designers will make some suggestions: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/send-us-your-own-decorating-dilemma/
Meredith
Love your style!! Where did the bar stools come from? Thanks!!
Maria Killam
Love these ideas and the fact that you’ve shown them all on round tables which I find more challenging to create tablescapes for than rectangular tables where there is more space!
x
Maria
Melinda Anne Constantine
I have a question-what is the color green paint that you have painted on the walls in the third picture? I love this color!!
Annika Dupree
Hi Melinda,
We are loving green this season! The color shown is from Benjamin Moore and is called Pine Brook #490. You can find this info and additional paint color information from the fall catalog here
Doug Robb
We’ve used Deep Creek a number of times with clients brave enough to go with a dark colour.
It’s dark without being “too dark” for nervous homeowners
Love your site by the way…first time commenting
covemaven
This was a great read and brought back fond childhood memories! I particularly appreciated that in each case, your experts started with the basics my Mom taught me.
My grandmother used to come and stay with us each year for Thanksgiving, and she would stay in my bedroom because we were a large family with no dedicated guest room. Our checklist included fresh linens on the bed, something special on the bedside and a fresh glass of water added nightly, room in the closets and a dedicated bureau drawer, a clear bathroom counter space for her to place her things (no guest ensuite, either), and always a nighlight that was plugged into the wall–just a basic, no frills one–that was just outside the bathroom door to light her way in case she woke up and wasn’t quite oriented to being in our house.
We’d spend the week before giving the house a thorough going over, starting with the less-used spaces. My Mom was famous for cleaning and closing the door, or for rooms with doorways but no doors, announcing the space “off limits” until the big day. We set the table with Grandma’s china, which she had given my Mom when my parents bought their first house in the suburbs and our Thanksgiving tradition started. Widowed at a young age, of necessity she was a working woman in the days before women aspired to careers. Because she no longer prepared daily meals, Thanksgiving was her domain, and it was an event!
Now that people rush through life, I often hear expressions of dread in advance of having houseguests, but thinking back on Mom’s systematic preparation, all the chores got done without feeling like drudgery, and it added to the anticipation and excitement. Thanks for the reminder.
Caroline McDonald
What a beautiful memory! You’re right, if you do a little at a time, it makes entertaining so much more enjoyable and not so overwhelming. I think we all need that reminder 🙂
Fernanda Waxman
Can you please share wall color on of. 69 – I THINK of August catalog?
Caroline McDonald
Fernanda,
Would you mind telling us what pieces are in the room? That way we can find the right space and let you know the color.
Karon
Thank you Ballard for sharing all these wonderful ideas with us, your customers. This is the first time I’ve seen how to decorate. I love decorating and finding new ways to arrange and display items.
Caroline McDonald
Karon,
Thank you so much for this sweet comment! So glad you found our blog!
Caroline
covemaven
These are all really beautiful! Any ideas for decorainge a mantel around the dreaded television? I know you ladies talk about this issue on the podcast, but seeing some photos of how to lessen the obvious intrusion over the mantel would be greatly appreciated!
Caroline McDonald
This is a great idea! We’ll try to come up with some options.
Until then, I would just say to decorate around your TV as though it’s a piece of art. Flank the TV with large urns or something dramatic to help balance it’s size, then keep anything under the TV low so it won’t block your view.
covemaven
The “mother in law tongue” plants are also called snake plants, but their formal name is Sansevieria trifasciata.
Diana
I am so pleased to find this article! I always struggle when I’m buying rugs….they always end up being too big or too small. These tips are very helpful for choosing right area rugs. Thanks.
Oksana
Hi! I need help in choosing pillows for my white modern leather coach. Can someone help me with it?
Thank you!
Annika Dupree
Hi Oksana,
With a white modern leather couch,it gives you a lot of options for pillows-colorful, patterned, or neutrals. We’d love to help you choose pillows to complement the couch and rest of the space! We offer a free program in which our in-house interior designers help pick out furniture, accessories, and fabric, etc. Just send in your question along with a picture of the space here and someone will reach out to you with a plan!
Felicia Palazzo
I love the dining room table featured in this article. Could you tell me where to find it?
Annika Dupree
Hi Felicia,
So glad to hear you love that dining room table! It’s our Andrews Pedestal Dining Table in whitewash color, which you can find here:
Joanne Kaiser
Love the Cache Pots and ideas.
Rose Rodriguez
Hi- I love this August catalog! Is it possible to find out the colors for these pages: 6, 26, 69? Especially 69? Thank you!
Annika Dupree
Hi Rose,
So glad you love the catalog!
The wall color on page 6 is wallpaper from Miles Redd’s Schumacher collection. On page 8, we actually used our Mira Blue fabric to upholster the walls. On page 69, the paint color is Cobblestone Path #1606 from Benjamin Moore.
Hope this helps!
Jenni
Just about died when I saw the room in the catalog the walls of which Miles Redd covered with that beautiful blue and white fabric. So gorgeous in every detail! Immensely fun listening to y’all pick his amazing brain.
Caroline McDonald
Jenni,
Thank you so mush for listening and for this sweet comment! So glad you enjoyed it. We had a blast sitting down with him. Also, be sure to check back tomorrow because we’re sharing a tour of his house! It’s a real showstopper, so if you enjoyed this episode, you’ll definitely want to see it.
Thanks again,
Caroline
Jacqueline Arsivaud
Which color ceiling did you do on page 93 with the Rainstorm walls? The picture is cropped so can’t see if it is same color (would that be too much?) or some shade of white. Thanks!
Caroline McDonald
Jacqueline,
The ceiling is a shade of white, but I don’t know what color exactly!
Caroline
Felicia Palazzo
Could you please tell me where to find this dining room table?? Please!
Annika Dupree
Hi Felicia,
Isn’t that dining table stunning? It’s our Andrews Pedestal Dining Table, which you can find here: . It is shown in the post in whitewash,but comes in graywash as well.
Hope this helps!
Marybeth
Looking for draperies to go with my floral furniture. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Cannot see where to attach photos.
Annika Dupree
Hi Marybeth,
We would love to help you pick out drapes to match your floral furniture! We offer a free design service in which our in-house interior designers help pick out fabric, furniture, and accessories for a space. Just send them a picture of your space along with your question here, and a designer will reach out to you with a solution.
Taruna Joshi
i have a patterned rug that i like, plain sofa and more considering a patterned curtain. i want to send a picture, how do i send it? what’s the email address ?
Caroline McDonald
Taruna,
Sign up for an phone or email consultation here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/design-solutions/content
Kim
I really appreciate these kinds of posts! As far as height around the room goes, does this mean there should be something tall/high on each of the four sides of a room? I have the slim Chadwick armoire on one wall, high curtains on the one next to it, should there be something high on the other two also?
Caroline McDonald
Kim,
There’s really no hard and fast rule. If you’ve already got two walls covered, you’re doing great! Maybe think about taking some art to the ceiling on another wall. That’s an easy way to go up!
I’m so happy to hear you liked this post and found it helpful.
Thanks for your comment,
Caroline
Joe Franklin
I’m glad that you talked about bench made furniture being high quality, and luckily we inherited some from my mother-in-law! We’ve been looking into some furniture reupholstering options that we have for these bench made pieces that will make them match and look good in our home, and I think that it could also add quality for us! I’m going to have to see if we can find a good reupholstering service in our area that will be able to match the quality workmanship of the bench made furniture we have! Thank you!
Sarah
Thanks for your response, Caroline! Episodes 25 and 26 are the ones I’m having trouble with.
Caroline McDonald
Sarah,
I just swapped out Episode 26. Would you mind listening and telling me if you still hear it?
It would be a HUGE help! Want to make sure you can get through a whole episode ?
Sanctum
Great design inspiration! I also like how you labeled out those furniture pieces in the photos, it’s a very useful article!
Michelle Henry
What a great selection of colors. I love how rich and cozy they make the rooms feel. Thanks for sharing!
Stephanie
Oh my goodness, please have Phil back! I love the podcast, but this one was just particularly informative and interesting. Thanks so much and keep up the good work!
Kristan
I absolutely love the duvet cover and bed skirt in the Master Bedroom! Would you share where you found them, or fabric name? Thank you!
Caroline McDonald
Kristan,
I believe these are custom made using Trade Only fabric. I’m sorry we don’t have more information!
Caroline McDonald
Maryl,
I don’t have a recipe for it! The chefs described it for us but there was no written recipe. Here’s what I did:
3 cups dried white navy beans
6 cups water
5-6 stalks celery
2 yellow or sweet onions
1 red pepper
2-3 cloves garlic
2 cans coconut milk (may not use them both)
1 lb. cajun or Conecuh sausage
Chop all the vegetables and add to a dutch oven with the navy beans and water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3-6 hours.
Brown the sausage in the frying pan, drain on paper towel.
When the beans are soft and almost ready to eat, start gradually adding the coconut milk until you get the consistency, taste that you like. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the sausage just before serving.
Sarah
I’m a HUGE fan of the podcast, but in the last few episodes there’s been this weird, high pitched noise in the background… is it just me? I’m listening through my iPhone and through the iPhone podcast app. It’s almost like a super squeaky wheel that won’t stop turning. I can’t make through the episodes, which really bums me out because I love you guys! Help?!
Caroline McDonald
Oh no, Sarah!
I’ll look into it and try to have it fixed. Which ones in particular?
Sandy
What was the wall color on page 51 in July 2017 issue?
covemaven
I love your suggestion of a bench cushion on the sofa! I’ve had my separate cushions converted to a single bench cushion when I’ve reupholstered pieces, but it is very difficult to find single bench cushions on comfy, sink-in sofas that you find in the usual retailers. Perhaps Ballard could offer that option on the Baldwin and Davenport sofas!!!
Caralee Moore
Thank you so much for looking into it Caroline! I love the blog and podcast. Last week’s episode was amazing. Cdmoore727@gmail.com
Nancy Rocha
Caroline has chosen some lovely pieces, but many of the rooms are overdone. There is no place for the eye to rest. Less is more in this particular home. Cottage style still needs editing and that is what needs to be done especially in the family and living rooms.
Caralee Moore
Hi! I love your design dilemma series! I sent in my design dilemma over a month ago and I haven’t received a response. I wasn’t sure how to reach out in case it was sent already, but I didn’t receive it!
Caralee Moore
The rest of my response didn’t complete. Who do I get in touch with to see if it was received or sent. I really appreciate your time and keeping this series going!
Caroline McDonald
Caralee,
We did get your questions. I’ll check with our Design Solutions team about where it is in the process and get back to you!
Caroline
Todd Berenger
My problem is with my Pug chewing rugs.. He chews corners to a fringe. Is there a nice looking outdoor rug that would look nice in the house that is durable and inexpensive?
Caroline McDonald
Todd,
Have you tried the spray that discourages animals from chewing? I’ve had luck with that!
Also, here are all of our outdoor rugs. I’m certain you’ll be able to find something you like among these!
Good luck.
Mayra
Hi,I need to put together in my taupe couch some pillows but I don not have any idea about it,my living room has a muted color rug and the furnitures there have neutral colors,needing the suggestion for what color of pillows would helps to stand up the room
Thanks.
Annika Dupree
Hi Mayra,
We would love to help you with these decorating touches to your living room! We offer a free design service in which our in-house interior designers help pick out furniture, fabric, accessories, etc. Just send in your question here along with a picture of your living room and a designer will reach out to you with a solution!
Susan R
I would just like to inquire, does Ballard do any kind of advertising by way of loaning furniture for staging very special homes that are for sale?
Jennifer
I want cabana stripe cushions for my white, wicker rockers. Our overall color palette is browns and blacks and warmer tones — but I’m worried the black and sand will look too flat/dirty against the white wicker and that the black and white (which I know is more of an ivory) will have a better overall look. Any advice? I am looking for a classic, clean look overall.
Annika Dupree
Jennifer,
We’d love to help you make the right choice for your seat cushions! We offer a free design service in which our in-house interior designers help pick out furniture, fabric, accessories, etc. Just send in your question here along with a picture of the space and a designer will reach out to you with a solution!
Jessica Strack
Hello! What color is the blue paint in the late Summer 2017 catalog on page 44-45? Thanks!
Annika Dupree
Hi Jessica,
I want to make sure I give you the right paint color! Could you please be more specific and describe the room on the page?
Thank you!
Susan
Hanging at eye height is useful, however, my husband and I have a constant disagreement when trying to do this. He’s 6’1 and I’m 5’4″. It never works for us. It’s better to know the proportion of the art work to the height of the wall. We constantly argue about where to hang things.
Caroline McDonald
Hey Susan,
Typically, the rule of thumb is for it to hang at eye level if you were 5’7, so actually that’s a perfect compromise! Exactly in between you and your husband.
Hopefully the disagreement can be laid to rest 🙂
Caroline
Maryl
Hello,
I loved the podcast yesterday. If possible, please put a link to the recipe for the beans cooked in coconut milk. I would love to try it!
Thanks,
Maryl
Caroline McDonald
Maryl,
I don’t have a recipe for it! The chefs described it for us but there was no written recipe. Here’s what I did:
3 cups dried white navy beans
6 cups water
5-6 stalks celery
2 yellow or sweet onions
1 red pepper
2-3 cloves garlic
2 cans coconut milk (may not use them both)
1 lb. cajun or Conecuh sausage
Chop all the vegetables and add to a dutch oven with the navy beans and water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3-6 hours.
Brown the sausage in the frying pan, drain on paper towel.
When the beans are soft and almost ready to eat, start gradually adding the coconut milk until you get the consistency, taste that you like. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the sausage just before serving.
covemaven
Dovetailing on the use vinegar in the laundry, we’ve kept a spray bottle of white vinegar in our laundry room for years to keep perspiration odor and stains at bay; baking soda in the wash water also helps tremendously. You can use both in the same washload. We recently had an “indescretion” committed by our cat on a pile of laundry. Apple Cider vinegar is the key to pet urine odor removal. We also keep a spray bottle of hydrogen peroxide near for any stains from shaving mishaps, etc.
Caroline McDonald
Oooh, all great tips, thank you! I’ve never tried baking soda. Like Karen, I’m a big oxyclean fan, but it doesn’t always help with smells. Thank you!!
JORDAN COLDRICK
Where did she find the pinkish persian rug in Camille’s nursery?
Thank you!
Monica Chaddock
Lovely
Cat Pearsall
Wow! Beautiful designs!
Where can I get the 4 mirror- framed prints in the first picture? They are stunning.
Thanks so much,
Cat
Annika Dupree
Hi Cat,
We absolutely agree with you that those prints are stunning! They are called the “Alabaster Bloom Art” and can be found on our website here:
Hope this helps!
Jake
Hi my live room is two color grays not goal Graywas subtle Grey and gold I found a pair of curtains and the arm they have all the color grays this in my living room and in the hole and it has the exact same Gold my couch is the same color gray I couldn’t find any material that caught my eye to match the colors that I wanted but I found a pair of curtains that matches all the decor in my living room and I was wondering could I put it on my dining room chairs which are four of them and then put it across the room at the window would it be too much I also was going to mix it with two solid colors along with the pattering my living room is small so I had to make kitchen area and dining room area rather and then the live room I have to combine the two places together so that’s why I’m axing can I put the curtain on the chairs and then put it to the window I even got one side of the room A part of the wall is split in half Gold and gray so so I was wondering if I could do that would be OK fit I want to Join the room together
Annika Dupree
Hi Jake!
We’d love to help you with this decorating dilemma! We offer a free design service in which our interior designers help pick out fabric, furniture, and accessories. Just send in your question along with a picture of the room here and one of our interior designers will reach out to you with a design solution!
Cristy Wilton
These Measures are really helpful for me. But i did not understand the graph properly because it looks like some type of technical thing which i can’t understand. But your measures helps me a lot to find out the why i have to replace outdoor cushions.
Jill Rosenberg
I learned great tips for my mini kitch redux. I am on a fixed budget and have to paint the 1070’s laminated cabinets. Any advice on paint bases and sheen for this slippery slope? Jill
Annika Dupree
Hi Jill!
So glad you enjoyed and found this post helpful! In terms of advice for your kitchen, we have a free design service in which our interior designers help pick out furniture, accessories, fabric, etc. Just send in your question with a picture of your kitchen here,, and a designer will reach out to you with some color recommendations and a design solution!
Shelley
I need help picking out some curtains, an area rug, pillows and a chair to lighten up my living room. I recently had new floors put in and a new kitchen countertop. Because the floors are darker now and more dramatic, I am unsure what to go with. I picked up these printed curtains but I am not sure. How do I send you Pics.
Annika Dupree
Hi Shelley,
We would love to help you with your living room! We offer a free design service in which our interior designers help pick out furniture, accessories, and fabric. Just send in your question along with a picture of your space here and a designer will reach out to you with a design solution!
Jenni
Ladies!
I have been bingeing on your fun podcast episodes while I work on summer sewing and painting projects (I am a teacher so summer time is decorating time). It has been incredibly fun getting to know y’all as well as so many amazing designers I have long admired and fabulous ones new to me. Two things I want: your appetizer recipes and a peek into your homes. I found the article on Karen’s gorgeous kitchen reno (that chevron tile really is the bomb) but there’s so much more I want to see. Like juju hats! Taryn’s bathroom! And the Kent pendant in Karen’s guest room! Are these gems and others searchable on the blog???
Keep up the delightful, inspiring work!
Caroline McDonald
Jenni,
Thank you so much for listening! I’m so happy to hear that you’re enjoying the podcast. We love hearing feedback. We do typically add photos when we can to the podcast show notes for each episode. You can get a teeny glimpse of the Kent Pendant in Karen’s guest bedroom here. It’s so hard to add pictures of our houses though! Some spaces are in flux and aren’t always photo-ready. We’ll try to get better about adding images of our houses though. You can definitely get peaks if you go through the show notes — we’ll often add iphone photos of our own spaces when we’ve discussed something in particular.
Also, funny you should ask about appetizer recipes. My triumph for next week’s episode (with designer Maggie Griffin) is a new favorite go-to and we also talk about the one we usually make when we’re hosting guests in our houses. Listen out for that!
Thank you again for listening. Maybe we’ll do some home tours of our own spaces in the future so y’all can really get a glimpse at our styles.
Caroline
Michele
Still love these neutrals from 2016. Why can’t I find the color of the seat cushions on Ballard? I believe it’s stone but it’s not an available option.
Susan
Beautiful Photos! What sofa are you showing in room five?
Thanks, Susan
Annika Dupree
Hi Susan,
Unfortunately, the sofa shown is an older product that is no longer available. However, we do currently offer the “Candace Loveseat”, which is very similar to the one shown in the picture and you may even like it better!
You can find the “Candace Loveseat” on our website here:
Baylee Frost
Any idea what the wall color is in #3?
Annika Dupree
Baylee,
Yes, that color is a Benjamin Moore paint called “Half Moon Crest” #1481. You can find all of our paint colors from each catalog here:
Hope this helps!
Annie
Is the Trilby drift a good choice for the Coventry sectional in a breakfast area? Is it stain resistant durable to wear etc
Anne
Your “chattiness” is what makes your podcast! Often I love the banter between you three more than the guest! Don’t let that comment change anything…I love the three of you and how you interact with each other. I feel like I have learned so much from this podcast. I would hate for the three of you to restrain yourselves just because of a hateful, catty comment. Love you ladies.
Cathy Oaten
July 2017 catalog Page 52-53 color please
Annika Dupree
Hi Cathy,
I want to make sure I can give you the right paint color! Could you be more specific to what rooms are on those pages?
Thank you!
Patrice
Five stars for Phil! What a wealth of knowledge. I agree with previous review…interruptions very distracting. Favorite guest on podcast thus far!
Jill Rizzuti'
What color was used in July catalog, page 64
Annika Dupree
Hi Jill,
I want to make sure I give you the right paint color! Could you be more specific and tell me/describe what is on that page?
Thanks so much!
Sarah
I am looking for the name of the paint color on pages 66 and 67 of the July 2017 issue. Thanks!
Annika Dupree
Hi Sarah,
I want to make sure I get you the correct paint color information! In order to do so, could you please give me more information as to what rooms are on those pages so I can locate that information for you?
Thank you!
Elizabeth
Love Erin and her new office is awesome. I definitely noticed all the Ballard in there 🙂
Geo55
In addition to being an amazingly talented superstar designer, Mark Sikes seems like a humble, kind person with the sensitivity of a true artist. I am even more impressed with him after hearing him speak than I was from seeing his incredible work. Can’t offer the same praise to the interviewers who did not meet him with a sense of rapport. At times they even seemed condescending in their approach to him, doing nothing to really draw him out but he did a great job expressing himself anyway. Mark D. Sikes is truly one of best American designers working today and I do appreciate that Ballard Designs has provided this forum.
Judy
What is the wall color on page 55 of Summer 2017 catalog?
Annika Dupree
Hi Judy,
I would love to help get you the correct paint information! Could you please describe/share what room is on that page for me?
This will help me locate the information.
Thanks!
Mary
I was wondering the same thing. You didn’t answer her question.
Caroline McDonald
Sindy and Mary,
You’re totally right. We’re often emailing back in forth with about these spaces, so we did answer her question to her but forgot to include that in the response. I’ve updated our blogpost to answer her question. Thanks for pointing that out!
Caroline
m
Id love to get paint color information on these photos…that is obviously a very keep element to these rooms.
Angie Hicks
In looking at these pictures, it looks like the you have the Eton Sofa in one of the first pictures with a slipcover. I need a sofa with a skirt and like the fabric in the picture. Can you tel me what fabric it is?
Thank you!
Caroline McDonald
Angie,
What color/texture is the fabric? There are several skirted sofas in this post. Let us know so we can help!
Sindy
Hi! Lovely design, as always! She did have specific questions about the size of the artwork–is there an answer to her question?
covemaven
I give this Phil Lancaster’s contribution to this podcast five stars because of his depth of knowledge, ease of conversation and graciouslness. I must say, however, that I was quite distracted and annoyed by the number of times he was interrupted mid-sentence by a question that would have been answered had you allowed him to simply finish his response. So, I give whoever kept interrupting him a definite one star, and respectfully ask that in the future you try to hold your questions to the end and ask them only if they have not already been answered.
I listen to your podcasts because your guests offer a wealth of knowledge which they very generously share with your listeners. The lead in chatter can be tedious to get through, and I often feel as though I’m listening in on a conversation among members of a sorority who have already split a bottle of wine before they started their chat. This detracts from the helpful hints you often bury amidst the conversation.
Excuse me if this seems harsh, but I assume you are looking for constructive criticism, and this is my honest opinion.
Caroline McDonald
covemaven,
Phil does have an incredible wealth of knowledge, so I’m glad you enjoyed this episode.
Thank you for your candid feedback. You’re totally right, we often do get too chatty, so we will take that constructive criticism to heart.
Thanks for listening!
Caroline
ELISHA LOGUE
Would love to know if any of the wall art in dining or entry are from Ballard. Also, the master rug?
Caroline McDonald
Elisha,
I believe most of the art in the dining room and entry are collected pieces and family photos. The rug in the master bedroom is vintage from Scott’s Antique Market in Atlanta.
I’m glad you enjoyed this house tour!
Caroline
Sandra
I really enjoyed this interview! Not only is Mark Sikes amazingly talented in creating timeless interiors but incredibly humble. I find that so refreshing in the design world. The haughty attitudes of many designers is a turn off for those that are looking to find some direction for their homes. I was excited when you ladies asked him what his decorating pet peeve was but also gritted my teeth hoping that he didn’t cross that line that so many do. His dislike for furniture sets and such came across clearly without crossing that line into causing those listening to feel his view is superior and that they should feel bad for making such a mistake. I think he just may be my favorite interior designer now.
Caroline McDonald
Sandra,
I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed this interview. Mark is a talented designer and as you could hear a humble and delightful person. We loved getting to sit down with him.
And thank you so much for listening!
Caroline
Wallpapering Wanganui
All colors are lively look-wise and will go best with matching curtains.
Melinda
What is the wall color in the photo wit the mirror and velvet bench?
Annika Dupree
Melinda,
The paint color is called “Herbal Escape” #1487 from Benjamin Moore. It is such a great color!
Wendy Fielder
Is the Larkin swivel slipcovered or upholstered?
Annika Dupree
Wendy,
The Larkin Swivel Glider is one of our upholstered chairs that you can customize by choosing from a wide selection of fabrics. You can also supply your own fabric to have this chair upholstered. Either way, it’s a great piece!
Patricia
Where can I get the couch Pinterest palette spring 2014 Spa
Annika Dupree
Patricia,
That is our Griffin Sofa without Nailheads! It can be found here, and is available for customization! So you can choose from our fabric selection or supply your own fabric to upholster this piece!
Judy Muirhead
What outdoor rug would you recommend for black wicker furniture with kiwi trellis sunbrella cushions? I like aqua, turquoise, pinks. I have a red brick patio. What size rug for a three-seater sofa, two chairs, two ottomans, coffee table and side table?
Annika Dupree
Judy,
We’d love to help you with picking out a rug! We offer a free design service in which our interior designers pick out furniture,fabric, and accessories! Just send your question and a picture of the space here, and a designer will get in touch with your design plan!
Vanessa Darezzo
This is my favorite podcast, wish you did one every day. It’s like spending an hour with friends who share the same passion for decorating.
Caroline McDonald
Vanessa,
Thank you so much for listening! I’m so happy to hear that you enjoy the episodes. It really means so much to us that you’ve taken the time to leave this comment.
Happy Decorating 🙂
Caroline
Lauren
Can you tell me who makes the large sectional and also the white slip covered sofa?
Annika Dupree
Lauren,
Both of these sofas are ours! The large sectional is our “Baldwin 4 Piece Sectional Right Arm Chaise, Left Arm Loveseat, Armless Loveseat, & Corner-Slipcover & Frame”, which you can find here:. The white slip covered sofa is our “Davenport Apartment Sofa-Slipcover & Frame” which can be found here: .
Alison
Thank you for the article. Can you recommend a rug to go with two chairs I have upholstered in a geometric print (colors are navy, taupe and gray)? Our living room is carpeted so I would prefer a rug that is wool and that will lay well over carpet. Thanks!
Annika Dupree
Alison,
We’d love to help you find a rug perfect for those chairs! We offer a free design service in which our interior designers pick out furniture, fabric, and accessories! Just send your question along with a picture of the living room here, and a designer will reach out to you with your design plan!
Eric Michael Marder
What can you recommend for mounting elevated above deck railing?
Corinne Muth
Looking for a way to display a base
Regina
Since the coloring of the photos seem to be off a little may I ask what color are the skirted parsons chairs in the dining room? I am assuming they are from Ballards.
Caroline McDonald
Regina,
They’re our Claire Gray fabric. Glad you like this space!
Jessica
Hi, we are moving into a very tricky space. It’s a super large (long) room that runs from the kitchen into the living room. From the kitchen (facing the living room) to the right is fireplace with built ins. Straight ahead (opposite the kitchen) is entertainment built ins for TV. To the left is s set of 3 French doors. I’m at such a loss for where to put furniture. I currently have a couch, two swivel club chairs and two small leather chairs. I am limited to the left by traffic through the room and access to the French doors. Hope this detail makes sense. Any help is appreciated. I’d love to submit a photo for one of the room challenge features. Two focal points in a room are so tricky.
Caroline McDonald
Jessica,
We’d love to help you with your space. We actually offer a free service where interior designers will help you layout your room, pick fabrics, and help you with accessories. You can send in your question and photos here, and one of our designers will reach out to you with a design plan.
Caroline
Annika Dupree
Jessica,
We’d love to help you with your space. We actually offer a free service where our interior designers help you layout your room, pick out furniture and accessories, as well as fabric. You can send in your questions and photos here, and one of our designers will reach out to you!
Sadaf
Please tell me the name of the paint colors she has used in her home, especially the foyer. This is the perfect color palette I’ve been looking for! I have many global furnishings too, but my dark walls are doing them no justice. I want to re-paint with the light gray I’m seeing in these photos, please help, I would be so grateful.
Caroline McDonald
Sadaf,
Here are all of the paint colors:
Downstairs foyer, living room, and kitchen– Behr Wheat Bread
Master Bedroom–SW Jogging Path
Dining room, butler pantry, powder room– Behr Anonymous
Both girls bedrooms- Behr La Paloma Gray
Herndon
very Summer-y (if that is a word. Even if it it is not a word, still Summer-y)
Herndon
Funny.
Cristal
Love all the ideas! Is thr round coffee table in option #11 available for purchase on the Ballard website?
Caroline McDonald
Cristal,
It is! It’s our Olivia Cocktail Table.
So glad you like it,
Caroline
Annika Dupree
Cristal,
So glad you love this table!It is called the Olivia Cocktail table and you can find it on our website here
Elizabeth
Oh Taryn- hope you can save the blue dress because it was cute! Really enjoyed this episode and hadn’t heard of Flower magazine before I listened while spreadsheeting at my corporate HR job :). Love every episode!
Caroline McDonald
Elizabeth, thank you so much! I’m so happy to hear that you’re enjoying the podcast. Thanks for listening! I’ll pass along your comment to Taryn 🙂
Layne
Love the color of the walls on pages 94 & 95 of the June 2017 catalog. It’s not any of the colors listed above, but do you know what color it is? Thank you!
Melanie Willliams
Hi! I’ve been looking at the Salerno Console for our bedroom – it’s beautiful! Quick question about the color of the piece. In the overview on the website it calls it a “Cream finish.” In the specifications on the website it calls it “white oak.” You state above that it it “light cream.” I think of cream as having a yellow undertone so I’m nervous to purchase. I’d like the Salerno Console to match my Sophie Side Tables in white. Will they go well together or does the Salerno have more of a yellow/cream color? Thank you for your help!
Annika Dupree
Melanie,
We’d love to help you make sure these match perfectly. We offer a free service with our interior designers who help answer specific questions such as picking out furniture, fabric, and accessories. You can send in your question and photos of the tables here, and one of our designers will reach out to you with a plan!
Kim
Thanks for sharing the colors! It is super helpful! Would you mind sharing the color of the kitchen island in the June 2017 catalog page 58? It is beautiful! Thanks!!
Caroline McDonald
Kim,
Unfortunately I don’t have any information about the color of the kitchen island. We shoot in real houses, so this is a paint color the homeowner chose. I’m so sorry. Of course, you can always have the catalog color matched at your local paint store which should get you pretty close to the color in real life.
Best of luck!
Caroline
Linda Hudson
Thank you for share this useful information, It has helped me a lot in selecting the best kitchen chairs or really it’s beautiful as well. I have purchased it now to Artefac.
Penelope Bianchi
Suzanne is a genius! Also the nicest, most talented lovely person! I love absolutely everything she has designed for my favorite catalogue company!
Karen Pappas testa
What color blue was used on page 28 wall in the May 2017 catalog
Caroline McDonald
Karen,
The color in that room is Sherwin Williams Rainstorm. You can find all of the paint colors from our Summer 2017 catalog here: https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2017/04/summer-2017-paint-colors/
Caroline
Brenda
I am hanging linen curtain panels on a rod 120 inches. With that long of a rod it will need 4 brackets. What clips do I use so they go over the brackets? Thank you
Caroline McDonald
Brenda,
None of our clips are meant to go over a bracket. Typically we like to divide the panels into sections, so for example two panels each between brackets and a panel on each side of the interior brackets. That way you can always open and close panels, even though they aren’t able to slide over the bracket. Does that make sense?
Good luck!
Cassie
Hi there,
I really enjoyed this article and found it very helpful but I’m afraid I am still struggling with choosing a rug for my dining room and wondering if I could have some advice please? I have beautiful curtains made with crewel work fabric I bought in India. It’s a floral pattern with blue and red flowers, a cream background, green in there too – I am about to paint the room teal. It’s a small room but with lots of light although north facing. I thought a red and teal rug would look good but im finding it very difficult to find one that isn’t very busy in its pattern as I think that would be too much. Any advice gratefully received!
Annika Dupree
Cassie,
We’d love to help you choose a rug! We actually offer a free service with our interior designers who help select furniture, fabric, and accessories. You can send in a picture of your room along with your question here, and a designer will reach out to you with a plan!
bored listener
Babble Babble Babble…red lipstick on your teeth, two girls babbling all over themselves about things that do not matter and giggle giggle giggle giggle…drives me crazy she said…. I was long time crazed at that point.
I see all the referrals to Bunny Williams………the reason I listened.
While I hope there really is a DECORATING tip of two and Bunny Williams
I’m logging off and sorry not to hear….Bunny Williams but I’m glad this girls had a time talking over each other.
Ballard…please please please
Casey
About the bedroom-
These side tables are the perfect color- it looks like Ballard Design only has a gray, is this dusty blue available or sold out?
Also do you have the info On where the bedside lamps are from?
Love this space!
Caroline McDonald
Casey,
This is actually the gray color! And the lamps are vintage so we don’t actually have any information about it.
Shannon
Jan’s antique mirror is gorgeous. It looks like it will go perfect with the Aurora Leaner Mirrors. I also like your suggestion of dark paint vs. wallpaper for the wall behind the bed. Jan–if you’re reading this–send an after picture, ha!
covemaven
Yes, it counts as a travel memento because when you look at it, it will remind you of your trip. When you think about how much you saved because of your resourcefulness, it will rekindle your pride! In my book, that’s a two for one.
Caroline McDonald
Great, glad you approve 🙂 I totally agree, I do think of our trip rather than how I got it home. Thank you so much for listening!
Lori
Your podcast is a favorite of mine. And to hear from Gen – love her style!
Caroline McDonald
Lori,
Thank you so much. I’m so happy to hear that you enjoy the podcast. You’re right — Gen is fantastic and so talented!
Caroline
Watt Michelle
I have become a big fan of your podcast!! Loved hearing from Bunny Williams and boy did I glean a lot from her not only decorating but encouragement to let things go and enjoy your home and the people you invite over to share it with you. I tend to be a perfectionist and like to know the rules before I start anything,thus it has taken me
1 ½ years after building our dream home to make some decorating decisions. My husband continues to ask me if I have couches, draperies, rugs, art work etc etc picked out and on order, I know it sounds so fun but for me not so much. After hearing Bunny, many of your other podcasts and your own triumphs and dilemmas, I am more free to make mistakes and trust my gut feeling when I like something!
Thanks so much and keep up the great topics and designers!
Caroline McDonald
Michelle,
Thank you so much for your feedback and for listening. This is just why we started — so we could empower people to decorate and enjoy living in their homes. I completely agree that it can be stressful and overwhelming. I’m hoping to do a big renovation in the next year, and the decision