Redefining Hospitality: Jill Cole on Leadership, Creativity, and Timeless Design

Visionary designer Jessica Bennett, the creative force behind Alice Lane Interiors, takes us on a journey through her remarkable transition from a decade in art direction to becoming a celebrated interior designer. As she recounts the spark ignited while building her own home, Jessica highlights the unexpected turning points that led her to establish a nationally recognized design firm despite launching amid a financial crisis. Her insights into the importance of vision, direction, and seizing opportunities offer a compelling glimpse into the dynamic world of interior design.Jessica candidly shares the emotional nuances of crafting individualized and luxurious spaces that resonate with each client's unique story. From NBA athletes to grandmothers with cherished memories, she emphasizes authenticity over a signature style, focusing on the client's narrative to deliver spaces that are both functional and personal. Jessica also reveals her evolving role within her company, including the development of a personal product line and a new lighting collection, aiming to broaden her creative influence while maintaining the essence of her design philosophy.Managing creative teams and fostering a culture of transparency are crucial to Jessica's leadership approach. By exploring her podcast, Dear Alice, and its role in connecting with audiences, she illustrates the value of learning from failures to achieve growth. Through inspiring design projects, Jessica discusses the significance of original art and vintage elements, emphasizing their role in defining a room's ambiance and evoking nostalgia. Her passion for interior design is palpable, as she invites listeners to explore the joyous intersection of personal inspiration and innovative creativity.

Visionary architect Julien Sebban takes us on a captivating exploration of his creative universe, Uchronia. Known for his theatrical use of color—particularly his beloved orange—Julien has an extraordinary talent for crafting spaces that evoke emotion and challenge traditional design norms. During our conversation, he reveals how his education at the Architectural Association in London laid the foundation for Uchronia, allowing him to integrate his own DNA into each project. Discover how his ideal creative day unfurls with coffee, music, and deep conversations with his team, all of which fuel his drive to create environments brimming with joy, happiness, and surprise.Julien's journey into large-scale installations across diverse industries reveals the unique challenges and inspirations he's encountered along the way. His adventures in Australia and a groundbreaking art installation at Coachella—a gigantic inflatable flower bouquet—illustrate his knack for transforming wild concepts into tangible experiences. The unexpected deflation of this installation on its final night offered a poignant reminder of art's ephemeral nature, leaving behind an emotional imprint that resonates with its audiences even after the spectacle has ended.As our discussion steers towards the intricacies of Parisian architecture, Julien shares insights into the interplay of light, color, and mood in his designs. With projects ranging from collaborations with the Paris flea market to an unexpected partnership with IKEA, Julien's work reflects a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. We also touch on his dream projects for artists like David Hockney and the cinematic allure of directors like Wes Anderson. Throughout, Julien articulates an unwavering admiration for the United States' bold culture of creativity and innovation, contrasting it with Europe's more cautious approach, and highlights how AI serves as a powerful ally in the creative process.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jill Cole, the innovative leader of CMCA, an all-women design firm reshaping the hospitality industry. Jill's journey from aspiring architect to a pioneer in interior design is filled with serendipitous moments and insightful revelations about balancing creativity with business acumen. Her narrative offers a fascinating glimpse into the unique camaraderie and support that fuels her team's groundbreaking designs, making them a standout in the field. We'll explore how Jill and her team navigate the evolving landscape of hospitality, transforming spaces into experiential environments that captivate and endure.As we delve into the artistry behind hospitality design, Jill shares her insights on the interplay between art and enduring design. With a nod to the works of David Hockney, she discusses the challenge of creating timeless spaces amidst the constant churn of trends. Iconic projects like Hotel Valley Ho and the Lodge of Sea Island serve as case studies in crafting designs that resonate with guests on a profound level. Jill's personal sources of inspiration, including global museum experiences, offer a window into the creative processes that keep her firm at the forefront of innovation.The conversation then shifts to the philosophy of fostering joy and creativity within a workplace, especially in an all-women firm. Jill emphasizes the importance of accommodating personal responsibilities to create a supportive environment that enhances growth and satisfaction. From her transformative work on the historic Adolphus hotel to her enthusiasm for future projects integrating technology and sustainability, Jill provides a candid look at the future of hospitality design. Her vision for post-pandemic projects and the unique challenges they present underscores her optimism and passion for crafting spaces that not only meet but exceed the expectations of guests worldwide.

Logan Leachman, a principal at JLF Architects, invites us to journey through the captivating landscape of architecture where tradition meets modern innovation. As he recounts his transition to Jackson, Wyoming, and his collaboration with the founding members, including Jonathan Foote, listeners gain valuable insights into the core philosophies that guide JLF's projects. Logan emphasizes the importance of crafting human-scale designs that coexist with the natural environment, while remaining steadfast in the use of honest, sustainable materials. This episode illuminates JLF's commitment to understanding the unique needs of clients by immersing themselves in their lifestyles, ensuring projects respect the rich heritage of the American West even as they incorporate contemporary architectural practices.Listeners are offered a behind-the-scenes look at how JLF harmonizes the romance of the West with modern design elements. By keeping building scales manageable and balancing contemporary and reclaimed materials, they preserve both design integrity and heritage. Logan shares personal stories from significant projects, highlighting the essence of creating legacy homes that endure through generations. As we explore JLF's future directions, including the development of the next generation of architects and the conceptualization of a third book, the conversation underscores the ethos of building spaces that provide serenity and relaxation, mirroring the desires and lifestyles of their clients.

Visionary designer Jack Ovadia, the creative mind behind Ovadia Design Group, takes us on an inspiring journey from his Brooklyn roots to his celebrated career in interior design and architecture. Jack opens up about how a chance encounter with a college guidance counselor led him to a path where art, math, and functionality collide, guiding him away from culinary arts and graphic design toward architecture. Jack's approach to maximizing space and creating family-oriented designs is grounded in a commitment to client experience, where building personal relationships ensures projects are both beautiful and meaningful. Venturing into the realm of livable luxury, Jack shares insights on blending aesthetics with functionality. His architectural training offers a fresh perspective on space planning, emphasizing comfort and durability over formality. A transformative project in Brooklyn not only propelled his career but also underscored the power of memorable client experiences in cultivating lasting relationships and opportunities for growth. Jack's stories reveal the importance of collaboration and creativity, with teamwork and open communication being the keys to innovative and successful designs.Engaging us further with tales of his notable works, Jack reflects on the emotional journey of designing the Edmund Safra Synagogue and other notable projects like a massive community center and luxury spa development. His grandfather's wisdom inspires Jack’s relentless pursuit of growth and innovation, highlighting the necessity of staying mentally and physically active in the design field. As a crowning achievement, Jack's involvement in the prestigious Kips Bay Decorator Showhouse showcases his commitment to impactful design and the legacy he aims to build with Ovadia Design Group. Be prepared for an episode abundant with inspiration, purpose-driven design, and the perfect harmony of work and personal fulfillment.

Join us for an engaging episode of Beyond the Design as we spotlight the inspiring journey of DEMI RYAN Founder, Michelle Palmer Murphy, a rising star in the interior design world. Raised in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, Michelle's path to success was anything but straightforward. Despite initial resistance from her entrepreneurial father, she pursued her passion for the arts, blending her unique style influenced by her mother's art gallery and her own experiences in Philadelphia and Manhattan. Michelle shares how significant events, like living in New York during 9-11, shaped her bold and confident design aesthetic. Now based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, she continues to adapt and thrive, bringing her eclectic mix of punk rock and indie rock influences to each project.Explore the transformative power of design as we discuss the joys and challenges of remodeling older homes with fresh aesthetics. Michelle and I talk about the importance of understanding clients' true desires and the thrill of breathing new life into historic spaces while honoring their original character. From preserving original wood elements to creating richly layered and livable spaces, Michelle's work demonstrates a balance of tradition and modernity. Her approach to design goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on creating welcoming and functional spaces that reflect personal experiences.Listen in as we explore Michelle's dream collaborations with icons like Prince, Helen Frankenthaler, and Dolly Parton, and her aspirations to design a boutique hotel. We also touch on the meaningful relationships formed between designers and clients, emphasizing the potential for deep, lasting friendships. Michelle's journey from childhood sibling rivalry to national recognition as an HGTV finalist showcases her resilience and commitment to her craft. Aspiring designers will find inspiration in her story, as she encourages trusting instincts, embracing bold opportunities, and staying true to one's values. Don't miss this episode full of artistic inspiration and practical insights into the world of interior design.

Visionary landscape architect Adam Kober joins us to share his journey from the farm fields of Indiana to the iconic Channel Gardens at Rockefeller Center. With a pivotal moment in Las Vegas igniting his passion, Adam has transformed outdoor spaces into breathtaking experiences that are both technically skilled and creatively inspired. His philosophy goes beyond plants and trees, bringing together architects and interior designers to create harmonious environments that serve as crucial bridges between indoors and outdoors.Adam's design inspirations are as diverse as they are intriguing, drawing from the classic beauty of Versailles to the innovative architecture of Thomas Heatherwick. He recounts the challenges of starting the Kober Design Group in 2021 and the joys of creating landscapes that evolve with the seasons. From moving mature oak trees across Texas to crafting a prestigious Manhattan garden with barrel cacti, Adam shares tales of resilience, adaptability, and the art of balancing client expectations with creative vision.This episode also covers the rising trend of using pea gravel for fire prevention, personal preferences in garden plants, and the dream of designing the perfect backyard oasis. Adam's entrepreneurial journey highlights the intricate balance of creativity and business, likening design style to a classic vodka martini. Join us as we explore the magic of crafting outdoor spaces that resonate with personality and provide enriching, experiential environments.

Imagine finding your true calling in a field completely different from where you started. That’s precisely what happened with Alexis Vitale, the creative genius behind Vitaly Design Group. Alexis takes us on an incredible journey from the world of kinesiology and craft beer to becoming a sought-after interior designer. Her story is not just about career change; it's a testament to resilience and passion, especially after her battle with thyroid cancer and founding a nonprofit to support cancer-affected families. Join us to learn how she navigated this unconventional path and emerged as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring designers.Transitioning into the interior design industry was no easy feat, and Alexis shares a candid view of the challenges and triumphs she faced. Her diverse background in health and entrepreneurship influences her unique design approach, where creativity meets the business demands of AI and social media. Listeners will gain insights into the emotional connections formed with clients and the adaptability required in managing less structured environments and collaborations with contractors. This episode sheds light on how Alexis successfully balanced her personal passion with the professional demands of launching a new firm.But that’s not all—Alexis’s journey doesn’t stop at home interiors. She expands her creative horizons to designing furniture and exploring the concept of "shoe stories," where tiles and shoes narrate personal journeys. Her love for storytelling through design is palpable as she teases upcoming collaborations, art lines, and a custom furniture collection. A playful nod to a potential new podcast, "Shoe Stories," encapsulates the essence of creativity and passion that fuels her work. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with Alexis Vitale, and remember to subscribe to "Beyond the Design" to keep up with more inspiring stories and exclusive content.

Unlock the secrets of transformative design with visionary architect Edward Maestri, who shares how his Italian stonemason roots and a life-changing study abroad experience in Italy fueled his passion for architecture. Edward’s journey is not just about creating beautiful spaces; it's about crafting unique prototypes that reflect each client’s personality. You'll gain insights into his holistic approach, which marries classical techniques with modern innovation, creating designs that are both timeless and fresh.Edward opens up about the dynamic blend of historical influences and contemporary trends, like the resurgence of brass, that define Maestri Studio's distinctive style. Discover the importance of infusing personal elements into design to create spaces that exude warmth and authenticity. As Edward shares stories from his diverse projects, including an architectural development in East Dallas, listeners will learn how he achieves balance between historic charm and modern sophistication while fostering meaningful client collaboration.Venturing into the realm of sustainability, Edward discusses the growing demand for environmentally conscious design, especially in light of climate change's impact. Learn how Maestri Studio is expanding into Southern California with new custom lighting and furniture collections that embody resilience and sustainability. Aspiring designers, take note: Edward offers valuable advice on trusting your instincts, breaking away from the conventional path, and embracing the artistic power of AI to enhance creativity and connection with clients.

Renowned designer Nicole Hirsch, the brilliant mind behind Nicole Hirsch Interiors, unveils her creative journey and design philosophy in this episode. As a second-generation designer inspired by her mother's work at the Boston Design Center, Nicole has grown into a creator of spaces that blend elegance, soul, and intention. She shares how her childhood experiences with constant home transformations and her college epiphanies have shaped her into a designer whose style is both contemporary and livable.Nicole's approach masterfully merges the rich architectural history of New England with a modern aesthetic, creating timeless spaces that respect their origins while introducing fresh designs. From the charming streets of Beacon Hill to the vibrant neighborhoods of Los Angeles, we explore how her love for neutral tones and elegant textures ensures both beauty and functionality in family-friendly environments. Discover Nicole's passion for lighting, custom fixtures, and durable materials like boucle fabrics, as she balances high-end luxury with everyday practicality.Join us as we dive into the complexities of the interior design world, where Nicole shares her insights on avoiding common design pitfalls and navigating client expectations influenced by social media. She opens up about her ambitions, from designing Boston restaurants to working on high-rise buildings, while reflecting on the impact of her family's evolving needs. With humor and candor, Nicole reveals how she maintains the delicate balance between creativity and functionality, ensuring that every space she creates is both stylish and welcoming.