Is the “Tiny House” Lifestyle For You? Michael Bartz Finds Freedom in 175 Sq. ft.

In the final episode of the Slow Style Home podcast for 2024, I talk to Stephanie O'Dea, the author of 'Slow Living: Cultivating a Life of Purpose in a Hustle Driven World.' We dive into how her book provides actionable steps for reorienting one's mindset towards a purposeful life, away from societal pressures. Stephanie explains the concept of slow living, which she defines as 'simply look only within,' focusing on intentional, sustainable living. We discuss her transition from writing bestselling cookbooks to advocating slow living, her experiences with societal pressures, and the necessity of aligning personal success with authentic desires. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of small, manageable steps towards goals, rather than striving for perfection. We also touch on the implications of social media-induced FOMO and decision fatigue, and the need to remain intentional in our daily lives. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Nina Watson, a designer whose thoughtful and intentional approach to her home perfectly embodies the Slow Style principles I teach. As we talked, her stories brought these principles to life, offering real-world examples of how they can transform not just our spaces, but the way we live in them.We explored how Style Evolves through her reimagined design choices, like lightening molding in her kitchen to better serve the space. Nina’s process reminds us that living with our design choices helps us understand and refine them over time. We also explored the principle that Life Informs Style. For Nina, this means creating spaces that are practical and reflective of her family’s routines and needs. Nina spoke about how Style Reflects Your Values. Her home is a testament to sustainability and the joy of storytelling. From upcycled flea market treasures to her custom ruby-red front door, every element is chosen with care and intention. Nina’s designs aren’t just beautiful—they tell the story of her family, their values, and the life they’re building together.If you’ve ever felt stuck or uncertain about your home, this episode is full of inspiration to embrace the Slow Style principles. Nina’s approach shows how design can be a joyful, reflective process that helps us create spaces that feel truly our own. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

When I sat down with Lauren Emerson and Genevieve Hewson of Walter G., I was transported into the world of block printing, where craftsmanship and soul meet.  We spoke about the philosophy behind 'slow style,' emphasizing the importance of handmade and artisan products and the ethical considerations of their creation. We discuss the unique tactile and visual qualities of handmade fabrics and the stories they carry into our homes. Lauren and Genevieve share their personal experiences and inspirations from their travels, particularly their time in India, where they learned traditional block printing techniques. We also touch on their approach to design, inspired by antique and global motifs, and their seamless integration of traditional and modern elements. Join us for an insightful conversation that provides a behind-the-scenes look at the beauty and soul embedded in every Walter G design. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

Schuyler Samperton and I talk about incorporating inherited items, mixing styles and eras, and creatively using dark wood. We highlight the importance of scale, inventive textile applications, and using light fixtures as focal points. Schuyler also goes behind the scenes with her own fabric and wallpaper lines and provides tips on mixing and matching patterns. We explore several of her projects so you can see how she integrates personality and storytelling into her rooms. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this solo episode, I explore a popular topic: handling mementos and tchotchkes from travel. I share my thought process, from pre-trip preparations to what I buy and how I integrate those items into my home. Travel fuels home design with life and energy, inspiring us with new ideas and color palettes. I offer a deep dive into the Slow Style Framework for home makeovers and discuss my recent trip to London, providing practical advice on blending iconic sites and hidden gems, finding inspiration, using boutique hotels for design ideas, and selecting meaningful and practical souvenirs. I also give tips on saving free mementos, creating travel rituals, and immediately incorporating your finds into your decor. Whether you're planning your next excursion or simply looking to enrich your home's aesthetic, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and tangible advice. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

The Slow Style Home podcast is about the process of creating a beautiful, one-of-a-kind home without hurting the planet or your wallet to get there. Slow Style is an antidote to fast-paced micro trends and disposable decor and the pressure we've been feeling to live in this instantaneous, perfect home. My name is Zandra Zuraw and I'm really excited to introduce you to Slow Style.  On the show, you'll hear solo episodes with me as well as  interviews with the best pros working in the interior design field.  To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode of the Slow Style Home Podcast, I sat down with Michael Bartz, a homeowner who built and lives in a tiny home with his partner and three cats. Michael's journey to sustainable living began in 2015 after a life-changing breakup, leading him to question traditional housing and embrace the tiny house lifestyle. He built his 175-square-foot mobile home in his brother's backyard over four years, relying on YouTube, books, and the National Tiny House Jamboree for guidance. Michael later found a perfect spot to park on an elderly couple's farm, facilitating a community-oriented living arrangement. We discussed the challenges and rewards of off-grid living, the importance of aligning home design with personal values, and the impact of his podcast, 'In Over My Head.' Michael's story highlights the potential for a fulfilling, lower-impact lifestyle through intentional living and creative problem-solving. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I interview Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett, founders of KOBEL + Co. We explore their design philosophy, which includes the use of 'ugly' pieces to add tension, balance, and serendipity. They explain how incorporating antiques and avoiding matchiness can make spaces more interesting and welcoming. We discuss the importance of taking your time to evolve your style and the impact of personal and historical items in a home. Through photo examples from their projects, we analyze how they skillfully mix materials, colors, and eras even in children’s rooms. This episode offers a rich visual and conceptual understanding of their approach to design. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this solo episode, we will explore step three of my Slow Style framework, which is all about executing your vision for a room makeover. I'm here to guide you in thoughtfully connecting your design choices to the personal visions and values that matter most to you. I emphasize the importance of resisting impulsive shopping and instead carefully selecting decor that truly reflects your personality and passions. I talk about how to use tools like mood boards, which can help you translate the feelings and experiences you want in your space into specific design elements. My goal is to help you create a unique, personal style for your home. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I sit down with Samantha Stathis Lynch of Samantha Ware Designs to explore her rich background in art authentication and interior design. Samantha shares her journey from galleries to working at the prestigious De Gournay, and how she incorporates her deep understanding of art history into accessible interior design for all. She discusses the importance of mixing various design eras to create a layered, personalized home aesthetic and offers valuable tips for antiquing and spotting quality pieces. Samantha emphasizes the significance of creating homes filled with beauty and authenticity while also championing the eco-friendly aspects of reusing antique pieces. Her insights stress the importance of your home reflecting your story and personality, making each space unique and joyful. To use the Slow Style approach in your home, start with this free guide on how to create a vision that sets you up for every design decision you'll need to make!Sign up here to receive the free guide (and lots of suppport along the way).