Ep. 218: Dutch interiors w/ Barbara de Vries

Our guest today, Barbara de Vries, has a most impressive and varied background as a creative. Her prolific career includes launching CK at Calvin Klein, working on projects for Ralph Lauren and Pantone, creating her own fashion line, and co-founding her own publishing and media company. She also worked as a model and an environmental activist. Today we talk to Barbara about her new book, Coming Home: Modern Rustic, Creative Living in Dutch Interiors.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Barbara’s adventurous career path.
• How Barbara’s Dutch lineage has inspired her philosophy and style.
• The difference between using the old and the new in the US vs. Europe.
• How the work from home movement is evolving our spaces.
• Cultural differences make a big difference in kitchen size and design.
• Why we all can benefit from using more daily conservation efforts.
• A Decorating Dilemma about the power of well-adjusted drapes.
• What can we learn about Dutch Interior Design to take into our own homes?
• Barbara was a model and an environmental activist?

Decorating Dilemma 

I must say I have never seen a house with all the ceilings painted before and I understand that not being your style. Ideally, you would paint all over everything. If your budget doesn't allow it, though, then I would advise painting the ceilings white. Your house would immediately come much lighter and bright. Going room by room, I would buy 2 paintings and a mirror for the dining to the wall to the left of your window. I wouldn't worry about a rug because the light reflects beautifully on the natural wood floor. Drapes could also make it look cozier in there. I would get large vases and keep fresh flowers in there. I would also paint the wall below the staircase and the hallway ceiling white. I would live with the terracotta in your living room and maybe add some pieces that reflect that color. If there isn't a rug in there, I would get a rug that picks up on those colors. And if you don't want to paint, maybe try tile underneath the cabinets.

If all the suggestions are too much work, I would definitely start with the white ceilings, white dining room, and white panel on the stairs. It's a great, sunny space! We would love to see the after photos!

Mentioned in This Episode:

Barbara de Vries

Going Dutch Interiors on Instagram

TED Talk - Plastic is Forever

Coming Home: Modern Rustic, Creative Living in Dutch Interiors