“Break the rules on purpose because we believe the room will look better. Not because we don't know better.” That's the premise of Myquillyn Smith’s new book, “House Rules.” In my conversation with her we pull apart some of these key rules and why they’re so useful, across the board. I love her examples of balancing casual and formal elements, the value of antiques and art, and how decorating with meaningful objects is better than decorating with diamonds. The Slow Style philosophy regarding intentionality, contrast, and patience in home decor comes through loud and clear.  I’m so happy to have Myquillyn back on the show! www.slowstylehome.com/episodes/myquillyn-smith

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.

Home is the place you can be yourself in your wildest dreams because home is where we are creating who we want to become. This is the overarching theme of this week’s conversation with Carla Morano of the wallpaper and mural company, Fine & Dandy Co. Take some risks in putting yourself out there, visually, visibly throughout your home, and don’t worry so much about rules, or what other people think, whether or not things “go” together. Oh, and we talk about wallpaper, too! www.slowstylehome.com/episodes/carla-morano

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I sat down with Bo Shepard and Kyle Dubé, the founders of Woodward Throwbacks and authors of the new book “Throwbacks Home Interiors”. They share their journey from salvaging materials in Detroit to creating unique furniture pieces with a story. We also explored the philosophy of Slow Style, the importance of trial and error, and how individual pieces can inspire entire rooms. The duo describes how economic downturns led to an abundance of materials for their projects and emphasizes the significance of adaptive reuse in modern home design. We also spoke about the importance of community, preserving historical materials, and contributing to Detroit's revitalization. www.slowstylehome.com/episodes/bo-and-kyle

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.

In this episode, and a Slow Style Home Podcast first, I had a conversation with one of our listeners, Lisa, about a common design dilemma - choosing the right rug. Specifically, how to choose a rug to go underneath the dining table. www.slowstylehome.com/qanda-lisa

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.

In this episode I welcomed back artist, collector, and shop owner Sean Scherer, to talk about his 2nd book, Sean Scherer’s Vignettes. He shared why he loves certain objects, how he chooses them, and his process behind crafting vignettes to tell a story. We also explored the role of vignettes in creating a sense of belonging in one's home. https://www.slowstylehome.com/episodes/sean-scherer

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.

In this episode, I talk with Elizabeth and Ethan Finkelstein, the creators of the popular Instagram account Cheap Old Houses. During the interview, they shared insights about their inspiration for the account, their thoughts on the American dream, the value of renovating old homes slowly, and the significance of preserving everyday American homes. They also discussed their own experiences with their historic home and their unique interior design approach, as well as the educational aspects of their book.https://www.slowstylehome.com/episodes/elizabeth-and-ethan

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.

In this episode, I walk you through our new 'Fix My Room' quiz, aimed at helping you assess and enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your rooms.I address four main pitfalls: not applying basic design rules, managing clutter, lacking a specific vision for the room, and lacking design confidence. At the end of the quiz, you’ll know which pitfall is the one you’ve fallen into and why it’s so important to start by addressing that one, before doing anything else.  Additionally, I share info on our monthly membership program, the 'Slow Style Society,' as a resource for personalized help and community support with your home!

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.

In this episode, I have a fun conversation with Bilal Rehman, a 23 year old designer making waves in the industry. We discussed the importance of creating personalized spaces that reflect a person's unique style and needs. Bilal shared insights on lighting, mixing metals, and incorporating cultural artifacts. And true to form, Bilal didn’t shy away from sharing his honest opinions on what’s going on in design today! 

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.

Can you be a minimalist and a maximalist at the same time?

In this episode, I talk about the concepts of minimalism and maximalism. I share my personal experience with decluttering and the conflicting emotions I feel as someone who loves collecting things but also craves simplicity. Throughout the episode, I challenge the traditional definitions of these two styles, exploring the possibility of being both a maximalist and a minimalist. I emphasize the importance of intentional curation and finding balance in one's home. Ultimately, I encourage listeners to define their own style and embrace a mindful approach to their belongings.

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.

During our insightful discussion on the podcast, Dana Che continually emphasized the concept of a "win-win" mentality while dealing with home-related conflicts among couples. Rather than trying to make one partner conform to the other's preferences, Dana offered strategies that encourage understanding, compromise, and finding mutual ground.

Dana expertly pointed out that navigating home decor conflict is not just about overcoming disagreements over furniture, pull-overs, or wall paint. It's more of a deeper issue that includes respecting each other's preferences. In dealing with disagreements over TV placements, chores or aesthetic choices, the idea is not to find a winner but to create a solution that pleases both parties.

She offered unique suggestions that encourage a "win-win" scenario in all aspects. For instance, if one partner prefers a dark room for nightly events while the other partner prefers a bright and lively room, she suggests solutions like blackout curtains that can cater to both preferences.

This "win-win" approach fosters respect and harmony in the relationship. It reinforces the idea that understanding and compromise are crucial for a peaceful living environment. Dana's conversation starters provide another tool to initiate these necessary discussions for couples. Through her advice, it's apparent that when both partners feel heard and respected, the home becomes a peaceful place where everyone's preferences are acknowledged and respected.Dana Che Williams is a speaker, marriage and relationship coach, and the host of the Real Relationship Talk podcast where she helps people uncomplicate relationships and build deeper connections. On the podcast, she is known for her graceful candor, humor, and encouraging yet challenging relationship advice. Dana holds a B.A. in communication from Regent University. She shares her life with Shaun, her husband of twenty-four years, their four amazing children, and their “multi-cultural” dog in beautiful Virginia Beach, VA. Connect with her on Instagram @mrsdanache or her website at https://danache.com.

LINKS

Instagram @mrsdanache Website  https://danache.com“Conversation Starters for Couples in Conflict” https://danache.com/conversationstartersPodcast https://realrelationshiptalk.com/

The Style Matters podcast is now Slow Style Home! Click here for the latest episode.