Designing Spaces with Heart and Soul with Melissa Lee

Broadway star turned interior design luminary, Adam Hunter, joins us to illuminate his captivating journey from the stage to the world of luxury interior design. Adam's story unfolds with rich details of his early influences, from his mother’s sophisticated taste to the iconic designer Holly Hunt. He candidly shares how an unexpected opportunity during a Hollywood writer's strike launched his career, highlighting a transformative project with Kate Somerville. Through Adam’s narrative, we explore the unique challenges he faces balancing these dual careers, and how his theatrical background lends a unique emotional depth to his client interactions, crafting his signature style of "restrained drama."Our exploration continues with another accomplished designer, who sheds light on the intricate process of understanding clients' lifestyles to create spaces that truly resonate with them. This segment brings to life memorable projects, including a grand Tennessee estate, revealing how collaboration with architects and incorporating clients’ personal interests, like rock collecting and futuristic themes, fuel creativity. The conversation also covers the impact of industry accolades on career trajectory and a glimpse into the designer's successful product lines and collaborations, setting the stage for exciting branding expansions in a competitive market.We wrap up with an engaging discussion on the evolution of interior design trends and the emerging role of technology and AI in the luxury sector. The dialogue moves from innovations that make high-end design accessible to reflections on maintaining originality amidst a rapidly changing market. Exciting future projects, including revamping a childhood home in Chicago and new ventures across diverse locations, highlight the dynamic nature of the interior design landscape. We also tackle the significance of ethical practices and the ongoing challenge of educating clients on the true value of quality design. Join us for this insightful journey through the intersections of art, fashion, and the transformative power of great design.

Unlock the secrets to transforming your home with insights from Greg and Alexa of Dwellify, the pioneers revolutionizing the home remodeling industry. Our latest episode promises to unveil how you can simplify the often daunting remodeling process, making it a seamless and enjoyable journey from start to finish. Discover the unique approach Dwellify takes, offering a one-stop digital shop that combines world-class design and top-quality products to bring your dream home to life.Explore the innovative methods Dwellify employs to enhance decision-making, such as their use of design boxes filled with physical samples. These tools empower homeowners to visualize materials in their own space, saving time and reducing stress. Hear the inspiring tale of a kitchen transformation in Austin, Texas, where the removal of a load-bearing wall turned a cramped space into an entertainer’s paradise, fulfilling the homeowners' long-standing vision with style and efficiency.Excitement builds as Greg and Alexa shed light on Dwellify's future endeavors, including an AI initiative that will revolutionize how homeowners plan and visualize their remodels. From navigating complex design preferences without boxing clients into specific styles to offering a one-year warranty on labor and materials, Dwellify exemplifies a commitment to accountability and transparency. Tune in to learn practical advice for embarking on your own remodeling adventures and experience how Dwellify is setting a new standard in the industry.

Join us on Beyond the Design as we explore the remarkable journey of Meridith Baer, who transitioned from a disillusioned screenwriter to the founder of Meridith Baer Home, the premier home staging company in the nation. Meridith shares how a passion for gardening and home aesthetics led her to discover her true calling, turning serendipitous events into a thriving business. From the initial struggles of scaling her company to the importance of assembling a talented and dynamic team, Meridith provides an inspiring look behind the scenes of her success story.We discuss the evolution of home staging trends with Meridith, highlighting the shift towards eclectic styles and the integration of antique pieces. The conversation moves away from strictly modern designs, focusing on how her team adapts strategies to different real estate markets across the country—from the light blues and pale palettes of Florida to the space-conscious furniture choices necessary in Manhattan. Meridith emphasizes the importance of blending client preferences with timeless, inviting aesthetics to create compelling narratives for potential buyers.In addition to design trends, Meridith delves into her philanthropic efforts and the joy she finds in transforming spaces for those in need. She shares heartwarming stories of repurposing furniture for charitable organizations and the rewarding experience of making a difference in people's lives. A particularly memorable project was the transformation of a grand parlor at the Archer School for Girls. Meridith reflects on her motivations, future goals, and the incredible teamwork that has fueled the growth and success of Meridith Baer Home. Celebrate with us the journey and achievements of a visionary entrepreneur and her dedicated team.

Join us on this captivating episode of Beyond the Design as we sit down with the legendary Martyn Lawrence Bullard. From his humble beginnings at the Greenwich Antique Market to designing opulent spaces for icons like Cher and Kylie Jenner, Martin shares his extraordinary story. Hear how he captures the essence of his star-studded clientele through fluid and creative design, while celebrating his 30-year career with highlights from his newest monograph, "Star Style."We discuss Martin's eclectic sources of inspiration, ranging from his dynamic home environment to his passion for creating fantasy spaces in commercial projects. Learn about his transformative experiences restoring a 12th-century castle in Umbria, as well as exciting upcoming ventures like the Tiffany building and a leopard-clad private jet. Martin's work for high-profile clients, including Sylvester Stallone and RuPaul, showcases his unique ability to design spaces that reflect individual personalities.Lastly, we touch on the unexpected turns and heartfelt moments that have shaped Martin's illustrious career. From changing a policewoman’s family dynamics to his light-hearted surprise at being hired, Martin's journey is filled with humor and heartfelt stories. With upcoming projects like a modern throne room in Buckingham Palace and a unique wallpaper tour in England, Martin's dedication to thoughtful and personalized design continues to inspire. Don’t miss this masterclass in creativity and design prowess!

Paul Grothouse joins us on "Beyond the Design" to share his inspiring journey from childhood woodworking experiences to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Starting with his father's restoration of a 1710 house, Paul’s passion for woodworking was ignited early on. He recounts his teenage years using a portable sawmill, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors. Paul also explores how his engineering background has deeply influenced his craftsmanship and business strategies at Grothouse.We dive into the transition from corporate America to running his own business, highlighting the importance of passion and creativity in building Grothouse's distinct identity. Paul shares Grothouse's groundbreaking products like the resonata finish and the fire and ice table, showcasing their innovative approaches to design. We discuss how they overcame technical challenges, such as integrating metal accents with wood, and the constant evolution of customer preferences and trends in woodworking design.The episode wraps up with an exploration of the significant advancements in woodworking technology and the critical need for skilled tradespeople. Paul emphasizes the importance of responsible forestry practices and sustainability within the industry. He also offers invaluable advice for young entrepreneurs and craftsmen, stressing the importance of passion, learning from mistakes, and ensuring financial viability. Join us for an enriching conversation that blends the art of woodworking with the precision of engineering, and discover the future of custom woodcraft through Paul’s insightful experiences and expert guidance.

Melissa Lee from Bespoke Only joins us on Beyond the Design to share her extraordinary journey as a first-generation American and her innovative approach to creating empathetic and personalized spaces. Growing up in the milieu of construction sites and her family's real estate ventures, Melissa honed a natural affinity for design that embodies belonging and acceptance. We delve into how Brooklyn's vibrant cultural tapestry shapes her firm's aesthetic, characterized by its nuanced and layered qualities. Melissa's insightful discussion reveals the significance of understanding the human psyche in designing spaces that resonate on a deeply emotional level, highlighted by a standout project in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.We then navigate the intersection of architecture, design, and personal expression, unpacking Melissa's inspiration for founding her own studio. This chapter underscores the importance of a culturally diverse and collaborative team, and explores the adaptability needed for designing across various geographical contexts. Melissa contrasts residential and commercial projects, emphasizing the creative freedom of hospitality design. Wrapping up, we look ahead at Bespoke Only's upcoming ventures, including a new headquarters and a quaint East Hampton cottage, and Melissa's aspirations for future projects, potentially including a boutique hotel. Join us for a rich conversation on crafting spaces that reflect the unique stories and lifestyles of their inhabitants.

Architectural visionary William Hefner shares his compelling journey from childhood inspirations to founding his renowned studio amidst economic turbulence. Hefner recounts the influential role of California's scenic landscape and indoor-outdoor culture in shaping his designs. Listen as he navigates the shift from high-rise structures to the intimate world of residential architecture, driven by a profound passion for creating homes that harmonize with their environment.We also explore the meticulous process behind Hefner's architectural books, revealing the joys and challenges of capturing luxurious modern designs through collaborations with photographers. William opens up about the creative tension between traditional and modernist styles, and how physical models play a crucial role in refining architectural visions over digital renderings. Recognition and accolades have expanded his firm's global footprint, leading to culturally diverse projects that enrich his creative palette.As the conversation turns to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hefner reflects on how remote work has rejuvenated his creative energy and reshaped client priorities towards more invested living spaces. The episode concludes with William's introspective insights on his legacy, the joy and complexity of designing his own home, and his passion for photography. Hefner's advice to cherish one’s living space offers a heartfelt reminder to prioritize and find grounding in our environments. Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with practical wisdom and creative inspiration from one of architecture's distinguished voices.

Unlock the secrets of creating bespoke luxury interiors and learn how to integrate cutting-edge technology into your design projects with Jay and David, the visionary founders of Britto Charette. From their serendipitous meeting at Neocon in Chicago to establishing a leading interior design firm, this episode offers an in-depth look at their remarkable journey. Discover their philosophy and approach to convincing clients of the value and exclusivity of their high-end services, and how collaboration with top vendors sets them apart.In our conversation, Jay and David dive into the intricacies of client collaboration, emphasizing the importance of trust and clear communication, especially with high-profile clients. They take us through their project management process, from initial mood boards to detailed renderings that ensure client satisfaction. Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the latest projects that excite them, and how technology, like VR and social media, play unexpected yet pivotal roles in their workflow.We also touch on the often overlooked business aspects of running an interior design practice. Jay and David share their insights on understanding profit and loss statements, setting fair design fees, and managing client expectations. They discuss the significance of industry recognition, the importance of mentorship, and their aspirations for future collaborations. Join us for a candid and inspiring discussion that highlights the challenges and rewards of pursuing creativity and innovation in the world of interior design.

Join us as we sit down with Joseph Troughton from David Collins Studio, uncovering the captivating journey of this iconic design powerhouse. From the serendipitous meeting between founders David Collins and Ian Watson in 1985 to their groundbreaking projects for culinary greats like Pierre Kaufman, Marco Pierre White, and Gordon Ramsay, Joseph takes us through the studio’s early days and his own path to becoming an associate designer. We also revisit some of the studio's most memorable projects, including the legendary Blue Bar.As we navigate the studio's evolution, Joseph opens up about the profound impact of David Collins' passing and how the team has honored his legacy while forging a new path under the leadership of Simon and Ian. Emotional moments, resilience, and dedication to maintaining core design principles shine through as we discuss the studio's transformation and their unwavering commitment to creating unique and meaningful architectural languages tailored to their clients.We also dive into the studio's global collaborations and design innovations, highlighting their hands-on approach and the integration of local craftsmanship into international projects. Joseph shares insights on rotating design teams to ensure fresh perspectives and the importance of drawing inspiration from diverse fields. Plus, listen in for a sneak peek into some exciting upcoming projects, career advice for aspiring designers, and a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of David Collins.

Embark on a captivating journey with the highly talented Thom Filicia as he shares his inspiring evolution from a passionate young architect to a renowned designer. Thom recounts his early days of sketching houses and his academic pursuit of interior design at Syracuse University. He delves into his professional growth through internships and positions at prestigious firms like Parrish Hadley, Robert Metzger, and Jeffrey Bill Huber. Alongside his career milestones, Thom's love for dogs and his humorous college stories add a personal touch to his narrative.Discover the transformative power of television on Thom's career, highlighted by a serendipitous elevator encounter that led him to Queer Eye. Despite initial hesitations, this unexpected opportunity broadened his design perspective and propelled him into the limelight. Thom's tale of rapid success and the birth of a cultural phenomenon offers a behind-the-scenes look at the exhilarating and challenging world of TV design. Explore Thom Filicia’s expansive design empire, from his captivating TV shows to his comprehensive home products collection under the Thom Filicia Home brand. He shares insights into his design firm, Thom Filicia Incorporated, and personal anecdotes from his life in New York and at Skinny Atlas Lake. Thom emphasizes the importance of community, continuous learning, and the excitement of expanding his brand. His reflections on legacy and future aspirations offer a genuine glimpse into the heart of his multifaceted career and enduring passion for design.