Ep. 326: Flexibility and Finding Your Hero Fabric with Hayley English

Discover the world of interior design through the lens of Hayley English, a Pasadena-based designer known for her embrace of warm finishes and hand-block printing methods. With a keen eye for patterns, colors, and textures, Hayley crafts inviting spaces that beautifully blend English and French design influences. In this episode, she shares insights on comfortable yet beautiful living environments that maintain their allure while allowing for flexibility, making her approach both sophisticated and practical. She talks about how to find your hero fabric and why she calls paisley her “happy fabric”. Hayley also talks about the surprising aspects of designing in Pasadena, CA, and how to bring that historical element into a modern-day home.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

• Hayley is a third-generation designer and talks about the influence of having a mom and grandmother with a beautiful design eye.
• The surprising element of designing in California, especially in Pasadena.
• If you get stuck, remember that adding antiques and vintage first and then adding those newer pieces is the way to go.
• Starting with a piece that has a story, such as an antique desk or a vintage side table, is the easiest way to start and then build from there.
• Not overwhelming a space with too many strong pieces is also very important.
• Hayley talks about her love of textiles, and what patterns she is digging right now.
• Are the pattern considerations different when you're thinking about a Roman blind?
• Tips for choosing the right window treatments.
• Your needs and wants will change quite frequently, so it’s important to design for flexibility.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Ballard Designs
• Hayley English Interiors
• @hayleyenglishinteriors

Decorating Dilemma

Hi Jordan! First off, we love your creative ideas already, and we applaud your dedication to embarking on home projects - we know they are no small feat. Regarding your question about incorporating accordion doors, it's a fantastic concept. Replacing the one large wall with accordion doors, even if they feature predominantly glass panels, could flood the area with natural light, transforming the atmosphere. Your inclination towards preserving the open feel of the space while maximizing sunlight is commendable.

Your thoughtfulness in creating a multifunctional space, rather than just a "man cave," is excellent. Flexible furniture pieces, like a sleeper sofa or nesting tables, offer versatility for various occasions, be it family gatherings or cozy movie nights.

The suggestion of built-ins is spot on. Incorporating built-in storage along the TV wall not only maximizes utility but also adds a touch of sophistication. Additionally, echoing design elements and finishes from the main house into this space creates a cohesive and harmonious transition.

The idea of leaving the walls crisper for a light-filled ambiance is well-founded. As far as the stairs, a slight lightening of their hue could enhance the overall space.

Hayley agrees that investing in quality rugs and textiles is wise. Your instinct for natural materials like wood finishes and pops of burnt orange is fantastic and will indeed contribute warmth and character.

Lastly, the Crayola mess-free markers suggestion is a brilliant tip – maintaining a stylish space while accommodating little ones' creativity is a win-win.

We can’t wait to see what you come up with, and remember to send us updates!