Ep. 434: How to Work with an Interior Designer with Gordon Dunning

This week, Caroline and Liz welcome back duo designers Lathem Gordon and Cate Dunning to the show of the design duo Gordon Dunning in our NEW Atlanta podcast studio! Lathem and Cate demystify the client-designer relationship, walk through their step-by-step process (including their famous Love‑Hate meeting), and share practical guidance on budgets, timelines, communication, construction walkthroughs, sourcing art, and finishing touches. Whether you’re hiring a designer for a single room, a phased project, or a whole-home build, they explain what to expect, what questions to ask, and how to get the most from the partnership. What You'll Hear in This Episode: 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 01:00 Meet Lathem Gordon & Cate Dunning (Gordon Dunning) 03:00 How to prepare before hiring a designer 06:00 Why relationship and communication style matter 09:00 Interviewing designers — what to ask 14:00 Budget conversations: ranges, transparency, and expectations 18:00 Working alongside architects and builders 22:00 The Love‑Hate meeting — ideation and identifying priorities 28:00 Magic wand + Anne piles — how choices get refined 32:00 Meeting length, decision fatigue, and pacing 36:00 Construction deliverables and walkthroughs (framing, electrical, millwork) 40:00 Designer as advocate — handling on-site surprises 43:00 Install day: how Gordon Dunning handles reveals 48:00 Post-install follow-up, fixes, and photo shoots 52:00 Using existing furniture and moving between homes 58:00 Sourcing and commissioning art — client-led vs. designer-led 01:05:00 Accessories, final styling, and invoicing 01:12:00 Communication preferences (email vs. text) and process etiquette 01:19:00 Common misconceptions and final advice 01:24:00 Where to find Gordon Dunning Also Mentioned: @gordondunning | Designer Instagram gordondunning.com | Gordon Dunning Website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Ballard Designs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Caroline and Taryn as they welcome designer and bestselling author Erin Gates to the show to discuss her latest book, "Elements of Timeless Style." Erin traces the book’s origins, the story of finding and renovating her “forever” 1895 home, and candid lessons from renovating while raising a family. Erin also shares practical decorating advice from the book: why to live in a house before a full gut renovation, how to balance splurge vs. save choices, hiring trustworthy trades, paint and palette tips, and designing durable, layered, family-friendly rooms that can evolve over time. "Elements of Timeless Style" is available to order as of this episode's release date, 9/30/2025. Order your copy here: https://bit.ly/4mKHcSB What You'll Hear in This Episode: 00:00 Welcome to How to Decorate from Ballard Designs 00:34 Introducing Erin Gates and Her New Book 01:16 Why a Third Book — Elements of Timeless Style 03:58 Finding the Forever Home 09:26 Phased Renovations: What Worked and What Changed 13:37 Lessons from Renovations (budgets, timelines, contractors) 21:06 Designing Flexible, Family-Friendly Spaces 23:10 Planning for Longevity vs. Temporary Touches 24:00 The Barn, Patio, and Outdoor Plans (and sticker shock) 25:20 Favorite repeat pieces and why classics work everywhere 28:45 Paint, palettes, and testing color in your home 31:51 Hiring the right people — references and contracts 33:09 The library ladder/step stool debate (function vs. style) 36:17 Kids’ rooms, playrooms, and spaces that evolve 37:02 When to splurge on natural stone and other materials 43:00 Final thoughts, upcoming projects, and book release info Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠⁠"Elements of Timeless Style" | Order your physical copy today! eringatesdesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Erin Gates Design Website ⁠⁠⁠⁠Shop Ballard Designs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join hosts Caroline, Taryn, and Liz as they explore the artistic journey of Mary Elizabeth Ellenberg, a recently-added exclusive artist at Ballard Designs. Known for her expressive chandelier and floral paintings, Mary delves into her creative process and the influence of family and large-scale art in shaping her unique style. She discusses how her art beautifully tells personal stories while complementing interior design, adding depth and personality to any space. In this episode, discover the inspiration behind Mary's signature chandelier paintings, which vividly capture social gatherings. Mary shares insights into her process of creating grand scale pieces and custom commissions, emphasizing storytelling's role in her work. She also discusses upcoming color trends and her exciting collaboration with Ballard Designs, revealing her vision for integrating art into home décor. What You'll Hear in This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate by Ballard Designs00:35 Meet the Exclusive Artist: Mary Elizabeth Ellenberg01:17 The Inspiration Behind Mary's Art01:58 Exploring the Chandelier Paintings05:08 The Evolution of Mary's Art Career09:49 The Role of Family and Early Influences12:53 The Intersection of Art and Home Furnishings15:23 Creating Art with Personal Connections23:45 Collaborating in the Design Industry24:53 Upcoming Trends and Exciting Colors26:19 Exploring Color Combinations28:00 The Art of Storytelling in Design31:55 The Charm of Smaller Pieces34:07 Commissioning Custom Art42:47 Hanging Art: Tips and Tricks46:05 Conclusion and Where to Find More about Mary Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠Chandelier Art | Mary's Exclusive Ballard Designs Wall Art ellenburgchaircompany.com⁠⁠⁠ | Mary's Chair Company Website ⁠⁠⁠Shop Ballard Designs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join hosts Liz and Taryn as they welcome Arianne Bellizaire from Arianne Bellizaire Interiors in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.Known for her appearances on "Extreme Makeover Home Edition," Arianne shares her journey from accidental designer to a recognized professional, focusing on how to achieve a high return on investment (ROI) in home design. Explore Arianne's insights on implementing ROI-focused strategies in home design, balancing aesthetic with functionality to create impactful and stylish spaces. She provides an insider look at the logistics and creativity behind "Extreme Makeover," emphasizing intentional and strategic design choices. Arianne also delves into the importance of thoughtful accent pieces, the role of wallpaper in adding texture and color, and the benefits of investing in functional elements like window treatments. What You'll Hear in This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to Ariane Beza01:00 Ariane's Journey into Design04:04 From YouTube to TV Stardom05:14 Behind the Scenes of Extreme Makeover09:28 The Magic of Extreme Makeover12:08 Planning and Execution Challenges17:24 ROI in Design21:00 Personalizing Your Space23:57 The Importance of Accent Pieces and Wallpaper25:28 Functional Home Investments27:02 Optimizing Space and Lighting31:40 Insights from Working with The Home Edit35:35 Decorating Dilemma: Drapery in the Family TV Room42:12 Conclusion and Farewell Also Mentioned: ⁠@ariannebellizaireinteriors | Claire's Instagram ariannebellizaire.com⁠⁠ | Claire's Official Website ⁠⁠Shop Ballard Designs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Caroline and Taryn as they welcome Chicago-based interior designer Claire Staszak to the show, known for her expertise in historic architecture where she expertly blends tradition with modern flair. Claire delves into her journey of transforming traditional design elements with contemporary touches. Having established her design firm a decade ago, Claire offers listeners a peek into her distinct aesthetic and approach to projects. She shares the exciting journey of renovating her dream home, for example: a 1926 Mediterranean house where she skillfully blends charm with modernity, focusing on natural light and practical design. The discussion also covers how to handle design choices with kids in mind, emphasizing practicality without compromising on style. Moreover, Claire introduces her exquisite wallpaper collection, shedding light on its inspiration and customization options. This episode rounds off with practical advice for tackling design challenges and creating cohesive yet functional spaces. What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate Podcast00:33 Meet Claire Staszak: Chicago's Historic Home Specialist01:03 Claire's Design Philosophy and Journey04:29 Balancing Traditional and Modern Elements10:42 Claire's Personal Home Renovation Journey20:18 Designing for Functionality and Aesthetics26:42 Navigating Renovation Challenges36:33 Transforming the Mud Room: Aesthetic and Functional Design39:08 The Importance of a Welcoming Entryway40:30 Exploring Color Palettes: Warmth and Earthiness45:26 Designing with Kids in Mind: Balancing Beauty and Practicality49:56 Wallpaper Collection: Inspiration and Customization56:53 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Us Also Mentioned: @centeredbydesign | Claire's Instagram ⁠centeredbydesign.com⁠ | Claire's Official Website ⁠Shop Ballard Designs⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join hosts Caroline and Taryn in an engaging conversation with renowned architects William Curtis and Russell Windham of Curtis & Windham Architects as they share stories from their illustrious careers and insights from their new book, "Building on Tradition." Discover the launch of Curtis & Windham's new book and the inspiring stories behind their architectural journey. Learn how they returned to Texas to specialize in classical architecture, bringing their unique style to Houston's River Oaks. Explore their philosophy of blending traditional craftsmanship with modern challenges, evident in projects like Homewood House and a whimsical pub. Gain insights into their team development, the importance of hand drawings, and how they fuse traditional techniques with contemporary design solutions. What You'll Hear in This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate Podcast from Ballard Designs00:40 Meet Esteemed Architects William Curtis and Russell Windham01:52 The Architects' Journey: Inspiration and Education03:16 Establishing a Legacy in Texas07:22 Embracing Classical Architecture: Philosophy and Influences08:57 Essence and Charm of River Oaks Community16:05 Modern Architectural Challenges and Solutions25:27 Cultivating Client Relationships and Repeat Projects28:11 Emblematic Project: The Homewood House37:22 Exploring Fun and Unique Projects40:29 Addressing Zoning and Setbacks in Design41:26 The Historic Ville Farm Project44:25 Navigating Client Needs and Project Development47:00 Tackling Architectural Challenges and Personal Projects51:52 Conservation of Trees and Site Planning55:42 Team Development and Architectural Training01:01:14 The Role of Hand Drawings in Architectural Design01:07:52 Writing the Book: Insights and Reflections Decorating Dilemma: Hi! Thanks for all of your work on the podcast and for all of the amazing advice every week! I would like to make a change in our bedroom, but could use advice on paint colors and specifically what to do about our tray ceiling. I don't love the tray ceiling, but it would be expensive to remove so we are keeping it. I also don't love our current paint color (SW Pussywillow - it sometimes looks purple-ish to me) or the way the tray ceiling is currently painted.  The other element that is at play is the small hallway/ vestibule leading into our bedroom, which we are planning to wallpaper and paint. We've selected a moody, green wallpaper and plan to paint the trim and ceiling a dark green. I would like the hallway and our bedroom to compliment one another (see attached for the wallpaper and paint colors we are considering for the hall). Given the hallway colors, would you recommend going dark or light in the bedroom? Should we paint the trim, walls and ceiling the same color to make the tray ceiling less noticeable? Or have contrasting trim? How would you treat the tray ceiling? Or will painting the strip of gray around the tray ceiling white to match the ceiling solve all of my problems? The room is Northwest facing, if that helps.  A few other things I'm looking for for this room are an attractive ceiling fan and a throw for the bed. If you have any suggestions, I'd love to hear! I've attached photos of my room (the windows you see are the only windows in the room) and the hallway/ vestibule (no windows). Also, I'm planning to get a wood and/or cane headboard at some point so feel free to ignore the current one. Thanks for your help! - Allison Also Mentioned: Building on Tradition (Book) | Order Your Copy Here! curtisandwindham.com | Bill & Russell's Official Website Shop Ballard Designs⁠⁠⁠ | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join hosts Caroline, Taryn, and Liz as they explore the latest decorating trials and triumphs from within their own homes. This time around you can expect the ladies to cover their bedroom revamps, clever storage solutions, and sprucing up spaces with the magic of new fabrics and furnishings. Liz kicks things off sharing how she leveled up her sleeping space with a luxurious headboard and an adjustable bed, giving her room a comforting upgrade. Meanwhile, Taryn navigates tricky home maintenance issues, tackling everything from stubborn blinds and squeaky dryers to costly pool repairs. Caroline closes the show by walking through refreshing changes with new pillows that bring life and style to her spaces, all while decluttering her home for a more welcoming atmosphere. What You'll Hear in This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate Podcast00:33 Trials and Triumphs: Real-Life Decorating Stories01:58 Liz's Bedroom Makeover Journey16:19 Taryn's Home Maintenance Challenges24:00 Laundry Woes and Appliance Issues25:49 Living Room Makeover: Fabrics and Swatches30:26 Caroline's Home Updates: Pillows and Closets35:20 Furniture Fixes and Plant Care45:08 Peel and Stick Wallpaper Adventures50:05 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and Farewells Also Mentioned: Shop Ballard Designs⁠⁠ | Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join hosts Caroline, Taryn, and Liz as they chat with former model turned West Coast designer Kim Lapin. After transitioning from a modeling career and renovating seven homes in seven years, Kim founded Kim Lapin Interiors in 2020. Her design ethos focuses on mixing elevated materials with a casual feel, crafting contemporary yet livable spaces. Kim explores how she embraces both modern and vintage elements to deliver timeless, functional designs for young families. She shares her journey, her passion for stone and lighting, and insights from her upcoming personal home project. What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate Podcast 00:33 Meet Kim Lapin: West Coast Designer with a Transformative Journey 00:57 From Modeling to Mastering Renovations – Kim’s Career Path 02:12 Discovering a Passion for Design through Multiple Home Projects 03:52 Building Confidence with Each Renovation 05:02 Transitioning to a Professional Design Career 06:53 Evolving Personal Design Style and Key Influences 12:56 The Role of Stone in Creating Stunning Spaces 24:45 Lighting as an Artform and Essential Design Component 32:21 Renovating with Kids: Challenges, Learning, and Adaptations 34:13 Designing a Child-Friendly Yet Sophisticated Home 35:29 Planning and Executing the Forever Home 38:51 Balancing Client Projects with Personal Design Vision 47:08 Thoughtful Choices for Kids’ Rooms and Furniture Selection 51:43 Achieving Timeless Design: Trends versus Personal Style 56:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts from Kim Lapin Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ballarddesigns.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Shop New Fall 2025 Items Now! @kimlapininteriors⁠⁠⁠ | Designer IG kimlapininteriors.com⁠⁠ | Designer Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Caroline and Taryn are joined by interior designer Cate Gutter to discuss her innovative approach to creating refined, joyful family living spaces. Drawing from her own upbringing in a family that frequently redesigned homes, Cate blends functionality and sophistication in her designs. The conversation explores her design philosophy, incorporating family-friendly materials, and how to artfully embrace the chaos that family life can bring to a home. Cate shares stories from her personal journey, offers practical tips for functionality without sacrificing aesthetic appeal, and discusses the emotive power of art in living spaces. The episode also includes a listener's query about delineating spaces in an open-concept home, with Cate offering expert advice on creating distinct yet harmonious areas. What You'll Hear This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate Podcast 00:33 Meet Cate Gutter: Blending Functionality with Timeless Design 01:10 Cate's Design Influence: Lessons from a Childhood of Home Flipping 04:17 Standout Design Memories from Cate's Youth 11:16 Cate's Design Philosophy: Prioritizing Function and Client Needs 16:25 Balancing Aesthetic Appeal with Practicality 19:13 Family-Friendly Design Strategies and Material Choices 28:28 Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms for Longevity and Function 35:40 Embracing Creativity and Expressiveness in Kids' Rooms 39:55 Letting Go of Perfection: Organizing Children's Spaces 46:03 Art and Decor: Making Your Home a Personal Gallery 46:47 Cate's Personal Art Collections and Stories 49:15 Creative Ideas for Displaying Art in Varied Spaces 57:32 Exploring Non-Traditional Art Decor for Your Home 01:03:05 Listener's Decorating Dilemma: Creating Defined Spaces in Small Homes 01:09:03 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find More from Cate Gutter Decorating Dilemma: Hello ladies, I really enjoy your show, and thank you for taking my question!   We’ve downsized to a 1,500 sq ft home and are working to maximize our small space for grown children and grandchildren. While we like some aspects of open concept, it doesn’t always flow well, especially with multiple activities happening at once.  We’re planning to remove our kitchen peninsula, upper cabinets, and recess the refrigerator to create an open kitchen with a large farm table that will serve as an island. I also want to add a buffet or small table in the bay window space.  I’d like to somehow “border off” the living room from the kitchen/dining area. Most walls are limited—either open space, windows, or a fireplace. I’m considering a partial wall with a wide opening (about 7’) between the spaces, or maybe a wall extending from the bookshelf side with a shorter opening.  I plan to place a wingback chair on the left wall and possibly reconfigure the sofas—either removing one, placing the remaining on the gallery wall or in front of the window, or replacing them with a true corner sectional. TV is above the fireplace, and I’d love to add interior window panes as a divider if budget allows.  Thanks, Dalita Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠⁠ballarddesigns.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Shop New Fall 2025 Items Now! ⁠⁠@cwg.design⁠⁠ | Designer IG ⁠cwg.design⁠ | Designer Website Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Caroline and Liz are joined by the multi-talented stylist and interior designer Olga Naiman, where they delve into Olga's fascinating journey from psychology to interior design including her unique approach to transforming living spaces through her concept of "Spatial Alchemy." Listeners will explore the profound impact of intention, dignity, and symbolism in home decor, as well as practical steps for releasing outdated patterns in one's home environment. Olga also shares insights into utilizing doorways as frames and how small shifts in decorating can lead to significant life changes. What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 00:00 Introduction to How to Decorate Podcast 00:34 Meet Olga Naiman: The Intersection of Psychology and Design 02:51 Defining Spatial Alchemy and Its Impact 04:45 Olga's Personal Journey from Psychology to Design 07:19 Linking Home Design with Personal Development 12:07 Tips for Applying Spatial Alchemy in Daily Life 27:39 Routine to Ritual: Infusing Dignity into Daily Habits 31:23 Everyday Enhancements: Elevating Your Daily Routines 32:46 Symbols and Their Unconscious Influence in Your Home 38:37 Beyond Decluttering: The Process of Dissolving 44:35 Doorways as Key Focal Points in Home Design 47:55 Crafting a Tranquil Entryway to Your Home 51:12 Conclusion and Resources to Explore More Also Mentioned: ⁠⁠ballarddesigns.com⁠⁠⁠ | Shop New Fall 2025 Items Now! ⁠@olganaiman⁠ | Designer IG Spatial Alchemy | Order Your Copy Now Please send in your questions so we can answer them on our next episode! And of course, subscribe to the podcast in Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode. You can always check back here to see new episodes, but if you subscribe, it’ll automatically download to your phone. Happy Decorating! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices