Ep. 286 Renovating a Country House with Country Living

We’ve got a great duo here this week on How to Decorate: Rachel Barrett, Editor in Chief of Country Living and acclaimed singer songwriter, serial house renovator and contributing Country Living writer Holly Williams. In the November issue of Country Living, we get to see the beautiful country house they renovated using some Ballard products. We hear the story of how they came to collaborate and the little details that turned out to be one big vision. They also talk about working in a tight timeline, along with some behind the scenes moments of a not so glamorous photo shoot. We also talk about fun ideas for ping pong rooms, how bold colors can make a big difference, and the importance of having a touchstone item.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• How to create a cohesive vision for a project, especially when working in a tight timeline.
• Maybe you should look on Craigslist for real estate?
• How they incorporated an itch to use hunting lodge decor in their farmhouse.
• The importance of starting with a neutral color.
• Empowerment of happy accidents and being able to roll with things.
• The importance of having a “touchstone” item.
• Using brass lamps and skirted tables to create contrast.
• The importance of window coverings in the house.
• What to do if you have an eyesore in your home.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Rachel Hardage Barrett

Holly Williams

Country Living Magazine

Decorating Dilemma:

Thank you for writing in! First, the fireplace already has contrast against the white wall and then the shelves are pretty high contrast, so, maybe something that's a little bit like richer, darker, and warmer color might help it feel like one unit. Next, a skirted table underneath the TV in some great fabric can be repeated in the same fabric on the windows.

And remember, bold fabric will change the world! It makes everything feel intentional and beautiful, without busting your bank. As far as curtain rods, check out luddite brass ones.

For color, Oakmoss by Sherwin Williams could work, or a Jasper or Moss Point Green.