Beyond the Design

Danielle Chiprut’s path into residential interior design began in the world of commercial visual storytelling. Before founding her firm, she designed retail environments across the country for major brands like Urban Outfitters and Free People, as well as trade show booths for companies like S'well. This background gave her an acute understanding of spatial proportions, human movement, and how different commercial materials interact. However, the pivotal transition occurred when she and her husband moved to the suburbs and purchased a 1930s Tudor home. Channeling her visual merchandising expertise into her own renovation sparked a passion that led her to earn an interior design certificate at NYSID while still working her corporate role. After her personal home renovation was featured on Apartment Therapy, Danielle experienced a surge in interest. As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, friends and city transplants relocating to Long Island sought her help to redesign their homes. Armed with what she calls a "design…

Duncan Smith’s fascination with discarded items began in childhood, where he collected strange trinkets, wood shop scraps, and small shells in his father’s old cigar box. After moving to New York City from the UK, he faced the reality of expensive city living and high furniture costs. Being self-described as frugal, Duncan began picking up abandoned items off the NYC streets, repainting them, and upgrading them for his apartment. At the time, he was working as the head of video at a marketing agency, looking for a personal creative outlet. Encouraged by a visiting friend who was impressed by his upcycled home decor, Duncan began filming his process and posting short videos online. What started as a casual passion project quickly evolved into his full-time career. The moniker "Trashboy" was originally given to him by teasing friends whenever he showed up with sidewalk finds, but he eventually embraced the name as his official brand. Over the course of three years in New York City, Duncan transformed his…

The Journey Long before finding his place in the art world, Valentin Renner dreamed of becoming a geographical explorer. Learning early on that the physical world had already been mapped was initially disappointing, but it ultimately ignited his creative calling to explore uncharted territory through imagination and artwork. He began drawing his own worlds and maps, discovering an infinite freedom in building landscapes that had never existed before. Valentin’s unique medium—thousands of nails and stretched thread—chose him rather than the other way around. Struggling with traditional drawing and painting in his youth, he found comfort during math class by drawing faces, figures, and architecture exclusively with straight lines on grid paper. When he set out to build a three-dimensional, interactive map of the world for his very first artwork, using straight threads strung between nails of varying heights became the logical way to represent topography. Today, Valentin lives as a full-time artist, balancing…

At its core, Karen Asprea’s design philosophy asserts that interior design is a living, continuous conversation between human beings and their physical surroundings. Rejecting the modern obsession with sterile perfection, Karen embraces patina, natural aging, and historical continuity. From sun fading wood floors to hand oils softening metal finishes, natural materials capture the history of a home. She views sustainable design not just as a technical checklist, but as the art of preserving and refinishing enduring natural elements—such as sanding down and re-oiling original solid teak wall paneling during a 40-story lobby renovation rather than sending it to a landfill. The conversation delves into the deep emotional state behind real estate transactions. Recognizing that major life transitions—such as births, deaths, career changes, or divorces—drive people to buy or renovate homes, Karen positions emotional comfort as the ultimate goal of design. She deconstructs client requests to find the underlying…

Lucarelli and Dane. Dane’s connection to organic materials started early in life while working for his father, a cooking professor, before transitioning to a greenhouse in Virginia and eventually pursuing formal studies at the Los Angeles Institute of Architecture and Design. Macy, coming from a background as a real estate agent, used large trees as memorable closing gifts for clients to keep his services top-of-mind. During the COVID-19 pandemic, while working out together in the empty parking lot of the Hollywood Bowl, Macy noticed a local nursery with long queues and proposed launching a plant business—unaware that Dane had just registered Green Vibes Plant Co. Combining forces under the memorable moniker "The Plant Daddies"—a nod to Macy’s history of planting passion fruit vines across Los Angeles—the duo set out to reshape the indoor plant industry. Early in their business, a pivotal moment occurred during an installation in West Hollywood. While unloading specimen plants, movers brought in an authentic…

Brittany Farinas’s connection to design began at six years old while spending time in the furniture showroom where her mother worked. By age 21, while attending college and trying to chart a lucrative yet passionate path, she launched her own firm, House of One. Lacking formal experience at other firms, Brittany built her business through sheer drive, balancing a real estate license, waitressing at night, and working in a real estate office by day, all while managing clients in between. Her relentless work ethic earned her early word-of-mouth referrals, proving that credibility comes from delivering value rather than age. Starting a firm at such a young age meant confronting industry biases, but Brittany Farinas channeled those challenges into sharpening her instincts as a leader. Over time, she shifted away from the initial "yes girl" mindset and hustle mentality that drove her early career. Early on, she felt the pressure to accept every project, hit external milestones, and constantly pitch new portfolio…

Jeremiah Young’s path to becoming the principal designer and owner of Kibler & Kirch was anything but conventional. Having moved constantly as a child—living in 17 different places before age 17—Jeremiah found his early stability at his grandparents' house. That longing for a restorative environment planted a deep appreciation for the power of home. Moving to Montana as a teenager in 1994, he first stepped into Kibler & Kirch and felt an immediate aesthetic connection. Though he pursued an English Literature degree, worked as a librarian, and ran a clothing boutique, Jeremiah continuously self-educated in design, architecture, and textiles. In 2010, after discovering that Kibler & Kirch’s founders were planning a retirement sale, Jeremiah stepped in to acquire and reimagine the business. Drawing on the firm’s established reputation—originally founded in 1990 and named after the founders’ grandmothers—he preserved its core identity while shifting it from a retail store into a full-service design firm. Today,…

Amy Courtney’s entry into interior design wasn’t an intentional career detour—it was the environment she grew up in. Raised in New Rochelle, New York, by a mother who was an interior designer and painter, and a father who worked as a carpenter, Amy lived at the direct intersection of construction and aesthetics. Her parents operated a general contracting business and flipped every home the family lived in, resulting in Amy living in approximately 20 different houses in the same school district before heading to college. By simply observing her parents, attending client meetings, and visiting fabric showrooms, she absorbed the fundamentals of craftsmanship, finishing touches, and job-site tools early on. Her formal career began in Connecticut, where she worked for seven years as a designer in an interior design retail store. While that role provided foundation and experience, Amy found the prevailing regional style—dominated by coastal neutrals and repetitive light woods—uninspiring. Seeking broader creative…

Noz Nozawa’s awareness of how spatial environments shape human emotion began during a challenging childhood. Growing up in a difficult domestic situation where she was not permitted to alter or personalize the common areas of the house, her bedroom became her solitary sanctuary. It wasn't until she went away to college and moved into her very first apartment in San Francisco that she experienced the transformative autonomy of shaping her own living quarters. That initial taste of spatial independence was immediately put to the test by a notoriously messy roommate. Noz recalls an extreme living environment marked by neglected appliances and mold growing on abandoned iced tea containers left on the floor. During a Christmas break, Noz gifted her roommate a complete clean-up of the apartment. The immediate, palpable relief they both felt upon returning to a clean, ordered home provided Noz with her very first visceral lesson: physical surroundings directly dictate mental health, emotional clarity, and daily…

Kara Childress’ illustrious career in interior design has spanned over four decades, tracing back to her professional beginnings in 1984. Operating long before the advent of digital mood boards, Pinterest, or internet algorithms, Kara’s early career was built on the foundation of hands-on physical discovery and pure relationships. Based in Houston, Texas, she began her design journey with a deep curiosity for European design history, establishing a clear lane that would guide her studio's signature "old-world meets modern living" aesthetic. Her early path was shaped by a distinct work ethic and the dual challenge of growing a high-level business while raising a family. Kara candidly reflects on the early days of juggling school carpools and client presentations, admitting that she used to battle a sense of guilt about balancing her demanding career with motherhood. Decades later, however, those same children have grown up to follow in her entrepreneurial footsteps, showing her how deeply her passion and…

In this episode, Deke Rogers shares the thoughtful philosophy and hands-on approach that have made him one of the South’s most respected voices in antiques, interiors, and timeless design. As the founder of Collected for the Home, his celebrated brick-and-mortar retail studios—now with locations in both Birmingham, Alabama, and New Orleans—serve as living expressions of his belief that every object carries a story worth preserving. Throughout the conversation, Deke explains why true character should never be sacrificed in the pursuit of perfection. He challenges the growing trend of aggressively restoring antique furnishings, cautioning that excessive bleaching and refinishing often erase the very history that gives a piece its value, beauty, and soul. Rather than attempting to make antiques look new, he champions preserving their authentic patina as a testament to generations of craftsmanship and use. Deke also reveals how he creates interiors that feel collected rather than decorated. His process centers…

Kari Bennett’s professional evolution is a compelling story of shifting from purely creative instincts to high-level systemic mastery. In the earlier chapters of her career, she identified strictly as a traditional interior designer, focusing heavily on aesthetics, material curation, and spatial beauty. However, as she navigated the complex execution of major commercial and residential projects, she recognized that exceptional design could not exist without bulletproof operational structures. This realization marked a major turning point, pushing her to study the underlying mechanics of business efficiency. This evolutionary shift ultimately led to the founding and scaling of Edge Design, widely known as EdgeID. Rather than letting her business be dictated by the chaotic, fragmented workflows common in the design trade, Kari intentionally built a studio defined by clear parameters, reliable execution pathways, and ironclad operational precision. She transitioned her internal identity from a singular creative…

In this episode, Vern Yip shares the exact tactical methods, operational frameworks, and professional philosophies that define his approach to spatial creation. He challenges the standard, clinical view of home remodeling by establishing a definitive design baseline: exceptional design is never simply about superficial aesthetics. Instead, his methodical approach prioritizes creating highly intentional environments that celebrate a homeowner's unique story and actively reflect their core personal values. Tactically, Vern treats space planning like a meticulous narrative puzzle. His discovery process focuses heavily on understanding a client's specific daily behaviors, routines, and underlying psychological needs before any material selections or floor plans are drafted. He argues that this deep operational layer cannot simply be taught in a standard classroom; rather, it requires a designer to cultivate a fine tuned instinct for reading human behavior and translating daily habits into highly optimized…

Lauren Thomsen’s profound connection to architectural environments began with a deeply formative childhood event when she was just seven years old. After her family made the decision to relocate, a young Lauren found herself sitting in the back of her mother's realtor's car, completely mesmerized as they toured a wide array of houses. Walking through those highly varied layouts, she experienced an architectural epiphany, intensely imagining the entirely different types of lives she might live within each distinct boundary. This early realization that spatial layout directly dictates the quality of human life established a permanent lane that she would follow into her adult career. Before gaining the confidence to launch her own independent firm, Lauren pursued a rigorous academic path and built a strong foundation inside prestigious, high-stakes design studios. She describes her years spent working under established mentors as an invaluable phase where she learned the complex operational realities of…

Scott Hudson’s creative lineage is deeply rooted in American craftsmanship, carrying the name of his grandfather, Henry, who was originally a farmer turned carpenter-builder. Growing up on a piece of land that had been split across generations of his family, Scott was raised by his mother and his grandfather just five miles down the road. Beginning at the young age of twelve, Scott spent his summers laboring alongside his grandfather—doing everything from repairing weathered barn roofs and building fences to laying structural concrete foundations. This early immersion in the trade instilled in Scott a foundational understanding of raw materials and spatial geometry, effectively embedding a passion for building into his DNA. Alongside this technical training was a rich domestic culture anchored by a massive two-acre garden, cattle, and a grandmother who was an exceptional cook. This environment taught Scott to view the kitchen not as an isolated showroom, but as a hard-working, vibrant extension of…

Laura Tribbett’s evolutionary path into interior design had a remarkably early and structured beginning in the public school system of suburban Twin Cities, Minnesota. In the mid-1990s, a fourth-grade school assignment requiring graph paper and a scaled cardboard model house sparked a lifelong fascination with space planning. Growing up in a household with a one-story layout, a young Laura designed a two-story miniature cabin with a dramatic opening overlooking the main floor—an architectural element that represented the ultimate luxury in her eyes. This formative cardboard project established a clear lane that she would eagerly follow into adulthood. As the youngest of three siblings, Laura enjoyed a high degree of creative autonomy within her home. Her parents, who balanced careers as musicians and language and math teachers, gave her free rein to experiment, allowing her to constantly rearrange her furniture and explore 1990s trends like sponge painting and wallpaper borders. This self-directed…

Marcel Wanders' journey into the world of creation began long before he or the world around him even had a word for "design". Growing up in the Netherlands, where his parents ran a local shop, a young Marcel found his sanctuary in a backroom filled with broken items. Armed with just a hammer and a few screwdrivers at three or four years old, he would enthusiastically unscrew objects to study how they were made. He began gluing these pieces together to craft little sculptural fidgets as gifts for visiting aunts, discovering early on the intoxicating power of extracting a joyous, emotional reaction through handmade objects. This early instinct evolved into a deeply personal design philosophy centered on the concept of the "ultimate gift". Marcel realized that a truly great creation must feel intimately customized for the recipient while remaining unmistakably reflective of the giver's unique identity. This guiding principle ultimately anchored his professional life, driving him to view every commercial product…

Michelle Morgan Harrison’s creative trajectory began not in design studios, but in the fast-paced world of 1990s print fashion journalism. An intersectional internship between her junior and senior years of college at Elle magazine introduced her to legendary industry giants like Marion McEvoy and Rona Berg. After completing her degree in magazine journalism at Syracuse University, she transitioned into a full-time career in the fashion capitol ecosystem. Her early professional years were defined by old-school curation, starting as the wardrobe manager for Mirabella magazine under the iconic Grace Mirabella. Working in the fashion closets handling couture dresses and traveling across Europe to cover runway shows alongside visionary creative directors, Michelle developed a keen instinct for predicting cultural shifts. During the height of the mid-90s "British Invasion," she was running up five flights of stairs in London to help spot and support emerging talents like Alexander McQueen. The transition into…

Susan Weiss’s career is a masterclass in how early environments shape creative destinies. Growing up the daughter of Harold Bailey—an architect, avid collector, and adventurer—Susan was immersed in a world where design was not just a profession, but a lifestyle. She describes this early exposure as "intravenous," suggesting that while she didn't realize she was being shaped at the time, the appreciation for craftsmanship and the stories behind objects became part of her DNA. Her father’s approach to collecting was never about the mere possession of "things"; it was about the journey, the people met along the way, and the process of refurbishing and sharing those pieces. This foundational philosophy led Susan into the world of luxury curation, eventually leading her to play a pivotal role in the development of Net-a-Porter’s furniture and home divisions. She learned early on that a piece of furniture is a living history, carrying the fingerprints of those who created it and those who lived with it before.…

Britany Simon’s path to interior design was paved early on, influenced by her father’s career as a residential developer. As a child, she was constantly building and decorating homes for her Legos and Polly Pockets, showing clear signs of her future career. Though she briefly considered architecture and fashion in high school, she ultimately returned to her primary passion of interior design. Her early professional years were spent on the construction side of residential development, where she assisted clients in picking finishes for new builds. However, she found herself yearning for more creative fulfillment, as she rarely saw these projects through to completion. This desire led her to audition for HGTV’s Design Star on a whim, a move that proved to be her "first big break". Appearing on television was a pivotal moment that transformed her business. After the show aired, she began receiving calls from clients she didn't know, allowing her to transition from working with friends and family to taking her…

Jamie Drake describes his aesthetic in a single sentence as "urbane, sophisticated, energetic, visually intriguing, and always has a touch of wit". His professional philosophy is driven by a balance between his creative and entrepreneurial sides, ensuring he remains a "chameleon" who can adapt to changing trends—from the vibrant, saturated colors he was first known for to the more neutral, gray palettes favored by clients in the last decade. Tactically, Jamie designs rooms to include "visual exclamation points". He believes that when entering a space, your eye should immediately land on a strong, bold, or tall piece at the far end. From there, the composition should guide the eye to discover additional interesting elements throughout the room, creating an experiential narrative. He emphasizes that spaces need "room to breathe," and he carefully guides clients in selecting art with composition and balance in mind. This process extends beyond interiors and into product design for furniture, lighting, and…

Paloma Contreras did not begin her professional life in a design studio; instead, she spent four and a half years teaching foreign languages at the high school level. Her transition into the creative world was sparked by a deep-seated love for culture, art, and architecture, which eventually led her to start a design blog in 2007. Originally intended as a creative outlet and a way to document decorating her first home on a budget, the blog served as her "entree" into the design world as it gained unexpected traction. Despite her success, Contreras candidly discusses the "imposter syndrome" she felt for years because she did not attend design school. She reflects on her childhood bedroom—a product of the 1980s filled with wicker and Laura Ashley bedding—as an early, unrecognized influence on her path. Her story is one of evolution, showing how professional skills from one field, such as teaching, can translate effectively into running a successful interior design firm. Today, Paloma is a celebrated designer…

Patrick Cunningham always keeps a sketchpad within reach. Not because a client asked — because the ideas don’t wait. The co-founder of C & C Partners has spent four decades translating the personalities, dreams, and budgets of Southern California’s most discerning homeowners into architecture that feels inevitable. In this conversation, Patrick walks us through what that actually looks like: pools cantilevered off sheer cliffs, underground tunnels connecting guest houses to main residences, and a glass cube engineered to float beside an Antoine Predock landmark in Manhattan Beach. He talks about learning to read a client — whether they’re a fireplace-and-a-book person or a home theater and rooftop infinity pool person — and then finding the architecture that fits that life. He also opens up about what drives him: a sketchpad always within reach, a library full of architecture books, and a biannual tour of high-end custom homes across the country with a network of elite design-build peers. With nearly 30…

Lindsie Davis, the creative force behind Blueberry Jones Design, joins the show to share her unique journey from a background in art and textile studies to becoming one of Austin’s top interior designers. She details how her early education in fashion design and printmaking at Texas Tech provided a foundation for her current work, particularly in the way she layers colors and patterns. Lindsie credits her grandmother, an avid decorator and antique collector, for instilling a natural appreciation for rich, cultured environments that eventually led her to this career path. The conversation dives into the entrepreneurial leap Lindsie took to start her own firm, spurred by a "what do you have to lose" push from her husband. She explains the sentimental origin of her company's name—Blueberry being her daughter’s nickname—and discusses the first project that truly felt like a reflection of her own style: the home she built and designed from the ground up. This personal connection to design remains at the heart of…

In this episode of Beyond the Design, we sit down with Light and Dwell founder Aymee Kuhlman and design principal Katie Cunningham—two creative powerhouses who believe a home should be more than a backdrop. They share how a farm childhood in Oregon, grandmothers who collected antiques, and a mother who painted murals in the eighties quietly shaped their design eyes and set them on a path toward interiors that feel deeply personal and lived in. From early guinea-pig projects for friends to full-scale renovations, Aymee and Katie trace how curiosity and courage slowly turned a side passion into a nationally recognized studio. Together, Aymee and Katie unpack their client-focused, designer-led philosophy and what it really takes to translate a family’s stories, habits, and hopes into spaces they can grow old in. They explain why they’re just as interested in how a room will be used on an ordinary Tuesday as how it will photograph, and why they intentionally break certain “design rules” to make homes truly…

In this episode of Beyond the Design, we sit down with Calgary-based interior designer Stephanie Martin, founder of Stephanie Martin Interior Design, to explore how she built a career around creating deeply personal, timeless homes that truly reflect the people who live in them. From a childhood spent wandering show homes, hunting at garage sales, and redesigning her bedroom every year, Stephanie always had an instinct for spaces—even if she didn’t initially see it as a viable career path. She shares how a detour into business school and a plan to follow her parents into law unexpectedly redirected her toward design when an art history elective lit her up in a way nothing else did. With her family’s encouragement, she switched programs, found her fit in design school, and graduated straight into a brutal recession in Calgary that left almost no traditional jobs available. Instead of waiting for the perfect opportunity, Stephanie created one—pounding the pavement with homemade flyers, door knocking, and…

Brad Ramsey has built a remarkable career defined by integrity, creativity, and an uncompromising eye for detail. From his roots in Georgia to becoming one of Nashville's most sought-after interior designers, Brad shares how his artistic background and early wanderings through construction sites shaped his instinctual design philosophy. Starting his firm in 2013 from his basement and growing it into a boutique team of highly skilled creatives, Brad discusses the pivotal moments—from his first solo project to hiring his first employee—that taught him the true meaning of commitment and quality. In this episode, Brad reveals his core design philosophy: "Listen with intent and design with intuition." He explains how this approach requires more than hearing clients—it demands truly listening, asking poignant questions, and absorbing their lifestyle and personality before moving into the design process. Featured in House Beautiful's 2024 Emerging Designers and recently named to the Lux Gold List of 2026, Brad…

In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Design, we welcome Summer Jensen, founder of Hawk and Company, whose design philosophy merges luxurious minimalism with deep Hawaiian values and a profound connection to nature. Growing up in Hawaii climbing waterfalls and spending afternoons at the beach, Summer wasn't exposed to traditional architecture the way mainland children might be—but that absence became her greatest strength. When she arrived at school on the mainland, she discovered a whole world of design that had been waiting for her, and she's spent her career capturing "moments of awesomeness"—spaces that evoke the serenity of walking through a rainforest or sitting peacefully on a beach, bringing those emotional experiences into the built environment. Summer shares the meaning behind her firm's name Hawk and Company, explaining the Hawaiian concept of aumakua (spirit protectors) and how she was named after the hawk—Kamali'i Hokua Ka'iolani, meaning "the royal star child of the heavenly hawk." She…

What does it take to build a successful textile brand when you're competing against legacy companies with household names? Otis Weis answers that question by sharing his decade-long journey of growing Otis Textiles from a 20-fabric startup to a 260-SKU collection that serves hundreds of high-end design firms across the United States and internationally. After leaving investment banking due to health issues, Otis discovered his passion for textiles while helping his mother Catherine Ireland streamline her fabric business, ultimately deciding to create his own line focused on woven fabrics with a contemporary, California-inspired aesthetic. Otis reveals the unconventional strategies that fueled his success, particularly his decision to abandon the traditional showroom model in favor of selling directly to designers. By sending branded boxes containing his entire collection to nearly 3,000 design firms, maintaining exceptional inventory levels, and offering fast turnaround on custom orders through integrated…

In this episode, we sit down with Steven Cooper, principal designer of Cooper Pacific Kitchens and Cabinet Los Angeles, to explore the intersection of art and functionality in kitchen design. As Cooper Pacific Kitchens approaches its 40th anniversary, Steven shares insights from nearly four decades of creating bespoke kitchens for clients around the world—from Tokyo to Palm Beach's iconic Tiffany's building. He discusses his collaboration with British brand Cabinet, his work on the Le Cornue global design council, and how Los Angeles' diverse architectural landscape continues to inspire his creative vision. Steven takes us through his design philosophy, emphasizing the critical balance between form and function, the importance of listening deeply to clients, and how beauty can transform everyday rituals into meaningful moments. He shares the lessons learned from his father and grandfather—both builders who instilled in him the value of meticulous craftsmanship and the mantra "measure twice, cut once." From…

Interior designer and architect Benjamin Johnston brings a deeply human approach to creating refined, timeless spaces that defy categorization and trends. With formal training in architecture including a master's degree and experience working on mega-scale developments in Tokyo for Cesar Pelli, Benjamin made the deliberate choice to reverse scale and work at the intimate level of interiors. His path wasn't linear—he spent years taking on diverse projects from graphic design to furniture to small remodels, slowly building his craft and learning from each challenge. That foundation of hands-on problem-solving, combined with rigorous architectural training in critical thinking and design history, informs his work today leading a 23-person firm with projects spanning continents and cultures. Benjamin's design DNA is encapsulated in three words: classic, curated, and cool. Classic refers not just to aesthetic but to timeless principles of balance, symmetry (or deliberate asymmetry), and mixing time periods and…

Laura Williams, founder of Living Oak Design in Austin, Texas, joins the show to share her remarkable journey from opera singer to sought-after interior designer. Growing up in a creative family of musicians and artists, Laura always had an eye for design—she was the kid constantly rearranging furniture in her room. After studying opera through college and working in the fast-paced design scenes of New York City and Miami, Laura developed the grit and work ethic that would later fuel her entrepreneurial success. When she became a mother, she stepped away from corporate life to focus on her young children, but her passion for design never faded. What started as a part-time venture while her kids were in school has evolved into a thriving full-service design firm with a team of seven, a retail showroom, and projects spanning full home renovations to intimate bathroom refreshes. Laura's design philosophy centers on creating cozy, lived-in spaces that reflect the personalities and needs of the families who…

In this episode of "Beyond the Design," host Matt Donahoe, founder of Bureau Interiors, shares insights into his unique design philosophy that blends comfort with sophistication. Influenced by his European upbringing and a love for literature, Matt emphasizes the importance of storytelling in design, where each client's narrative is woven into their home. He explains the significance of using both primitive and refined elements to create a balanced and inviting environment, ensuring that spaces feel personal and lived-in rather than sterile. Matt discusses the evolution of his career, highlighting his experiences in retail and hospitality design, which taught him the value of creating environments that provide comfort and a sense of place. He elaborates on the importance of client relationships, likening the design process to dating, where trust and understanding are built over time. By maintaining accessibility and open communication, Matt fosters long-lasting connections with clients, often guiding them…

Interior designer Christine Vroom joins us to discuss the art and craft of creating timeless homes. In this conversation, Christine shares how she defines timeless design—yrooted in history and the evolution of color, materials, and architectural elements across eras—and how she protects her work from fleeting trends. She reveals the common misconceptions about interior design, particularly the "TV show myth" that beautiful spaces happen overnight. Behind every stunning room is meticulous planning, vendor coordination, tradesmen management, and countless unforeseen details that never make it to screen. Christine emphasizes her role as a storyteller and guide rather than simply a designer. She explains how she extracts client personality and lifestyle through intentional conversation and genuine connection, turning their stories into physical spaces that feel deeply personal. Her philosophy of honesty with clients—saying "no" gently but firmly when an idea doesn't serve the overall vision—has built trust and…

Some lives are shaped not by ease, but by endurance. Mark Jupiter's story is one of building and building again, each time with greater intention. From the raising of timber frames to the quiet poetry of handcrafted furniture, his work speaks to a belief that making is not just an act of creation, but an act of survival. Today, we sit with a designer whose hands remember every chapter and whose work carries the weight of lived experience. Since moving into a new showroom three years ago, Jupiter has expanded his facility to three times its original size, allowing for greater efficiency and shorter lead times. This growth has enabled him to offer elevated pricing that is more digestible for clients, particularly in the hospitality sector, where there is a growing desire to manufacture domestically rather than overseas. Jupiter has always been an artist and a creator, and with the added space, he is now able to explore new materials and techniques, such as liquid metals, which allow him to create pieces that…

For New York–based designer, mom, and former fencer Jennifer Press, home is more than a backdrop—it is a refuge that should either soften a hard day or extend a joyful one. In this conversation, she shares how she listens deeply to clients to build spaces that feel like personal havens, whether that means a fully neutral apartment that quiets the city or a playful, immersive kid’s room with bold, custom elements. Her guiding philosophy is simple: clients are not hiring her to design a home she wants to live in; they are hiring her to create the one they do. Jennifer talks openly about the realities of growing Press Interiors from a solo practice to a team she had to staff far sooner than expected, including suddenly acting as HR, defining policies, and buying the first company laptop. She credits her operational discipline, her supportive husband, and a beloved nanny with making it possible to juggle parenting, client work, installs, and even postpartum site visits. At the same time, she keeps herself…

In this episode of Beyond the Design, host Cray Bauxmont-Flynn interviews Shaolin Low, an interior designer with a unique journey from event production to interior design. Shaolin shares her experiences of transitioning careers, the influence of her mother, and the challenges of establishing her own design identity. The conversation delves into the importance of comfort and personal expression in design, the impact of global influences, and the significance of creating spaces that reflect the client's personality. Shaolin also discusses her aspirations for future projects and the lessons learned from her diverse experiences.

In this episode, we delve into the world of John Pomp, a master of transforming raw materials into stunning works of art. Learn about his inspirations, challenges, and the innovative processes that define his craft. John opens up about his journey from a small town in Pennsylvania to becoming a renowned designer, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's creative vision. Through candid conversations, he reveals the lessons learned from both failures and successes, and how they have contributed to his growth as an artist. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the power of creativity and the beauty of handmade design.

Discover the inspiring journey of Kelsey Matyas, the creative mastermind behind Kelsey Deidre Designs, who bravely transitioned from the world of corporate advertising to the realm of interior design. Growing up in a vibrant beach town in New Jersey, Kelsey was surrounded by diverse architectural styles, fueling her lifelong passion for design. She shares how the support of her husband and the unexpected pause brought by the COVID-19 pandemic propelled her to pursue her dream, deftly balancing night classes while maintaining a full-time job, culminating in the launch of her own successful design business. Kelsey candidly discusses the challenges she faced leaving a stable career for the uncertainty of entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights on overcoming imposter syndrome and the importance of self-advocacy. Her story emphasizes stepping out of comfort zones, embracing fear as a motivator, and the vital role of a supportive network in navigating self-employment and motherhood. Kelsey provides empowering…

Visionaries Rodman Primack and Rudy Weissenberg join us to share their inspiring journey through the world of contemporary design, highlighting how their shared passion for art and architecture culminated in the creation of AGO Projects. From their childhood inspirations—Rodman, influenced by family house-building experiences, and Rudy, by his architect uncle—they've crafted spaces where beauty meets purpose. Their deep connection to Mexico and its cultural richness has played a pivotal role in shaping their design ethos, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with thoughtful, meaningful design. As Rodman and Rudy navigate projects in Mexico City and New York, they reveal their creative synergy and unwavering support for local artisans and smaller studios. Their collaborative ventures are enriched by a blend of modernist architecture and traditional elements, underscoring a design philosophy that marries structure with artistic flair. Exciting partnerships, including those with architect Tom…

Renowned designer Nate Berkus graces our latest episode with his seasoned insights, sharing the inspiration and journey behind his newest book, "Foundations," published by Rizzoli. This project is a heartfelt thank you to his supporters, packed with room-by-room design guidance drawn from his impressive 30-year career. We discuss how Nate's latest endeavor offers practical advice and evocative stories, making it a must-read for anyone eager to transform their living space with thoughtful design principles. Our conversation takes an introspective turn as we explore the evolving interior design landscape, shaped by historical events like 9/11 and COVID-19, and the emerging role of AI. Nate shares his reflections on the industry, emphasizing personal expression and the timeless value of creativity and genuine client relationships. We also delve into the art of blending old and new elements to create spaces that are both functional and emotionally resonant, highlighting the charm of vintage items and the…

Fashion, interiors, and storytelling come alive through the visionary lens of designer Danielle Balanis. Join us as Danielle, steeped in a rich tapestry of inspiration from architectural magazines and cinematic interiors, shares her journey from a childhood fascination with beautiful spaces to her thriving design career. Her work is a harmonious dance of the unexpected and the timeless, fueled by a love for fashion silhouettes, vintage charm, and the essence of music. Discover how she uses her Birmingham home as a canvas for experimentation and growth, bringing her editorial eye and maximalist spirit to life. Explore the myriad sources of design inspiration, where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary. We uncover how bold design choices, like revamping Ikea furniture with creative wallpaper, breathe new life into spaces. Danielle emphasizes the art of editing, balancing soulful spaces without overwhelming clutter, and the excitement of blending old with new. From the thrill of uncovering treasures…

Creative multi-hyphenate Sean Parker invites listeners on an inspiring journey through design, storytelling, and life transformation. Sean traces his path from rearranging his childhood bedroom to making bold design choices in his own home, all while navigating a life filled with geographical shifts and career transitions. His story is one of perseverance, where he defies conventional wisdom by embracing dark colors and intimate design moments to create spaces that challenge the norm. Sean's passion for creativity has found a new home on his YouTube channel, "Restoring Sean," where he shares real-life stories behind his design choices, blending personal history with aesthetic innovation. His journey from a stress-free retail career to a demanding role with Pottery Barn, followed by a return to his creative roots, emphasizes the importance of mental health and the need for boundaries in maintaining a balanced life. Through this lens, Sean provides insight into his evolving design vision, highlighting the…

Join us on Beyond the Design as we uncover the artistry, innovation, and intention behind compelling interiors with our special guest, Bradley Huesseman-Odom. Bradley is a visionary designer who blends raw elements with refined elegance to create spaces that feel both timeless and innovative. From his formative experiences in his grandfather's upholstery shop in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, to launching his own business, Dixon Rye, Bradley's journey is one of passion and craftsmanship. Discover how his career milestones, including accolades from Veranda and Architectural Digest, have reinforced his creative voice and cemented his success in the design industry over the past decade. Listen in as we explore the ethos behind Dixon Rye, Bradley's celebrated home store in Atlanta. The episode takes you through the fascinating world of design sourcing, illustrated by the acquisition of a rare Jacques Adnet daybed from a Paris flea market. Discover the spirit of Dixon Rye, likened to a Boulevardier cocktail, and…

Visionary designer Tanner Morgan of Morgan Madison reveals how a childhood passion for holiday decorating ignited his journey into the world of design and architecture. From crafting spaces that transcend mere aesthetics to ensuring they endure both time and trends, Tanner shares insights on the importance of understanding materiality and collaborating closely with contractors. He discusses how his approach combines sustainable practices with visually compelling designs, ensuring that each project leaves a lasting legacy. Tanner's fascination with architectural details, such as the nuanced reveal details around windows and doors, is a testament to his meticulous nature. He delves into his personal connection with natural materials like marble, which infuse depth and history into Morgan Madison's creations. Highlighting the eclectic beauty of Lenny Kravitz's Parisian home, Tanner illustrates how blending various styles and artistic elements can elevate a space from functional to artful. Throughout the…

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…

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…

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…

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,…

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…