Ep. 390: Designing Elegance & Comfort with James Thomas

Liz and Taryn chat with celebrated interior designers James Dolenc and Tom Riker of James Thomas. Since 2003, James and Tom have been transforming homes with their unique design philosophy centered on elegance and comfort. They discuss their journey from commercial interiors to high-end residential design, emphasizing details, historical understanding, and the importance of creating spaces that evoke emotion.

The conversation covers the duo's design heroes, the significance of team culture, and practical advice for both aspiring designers and homeowners. Additionally, they answer a listener's decorating dilemma about a challenging living room layout, providing thoughtful, expert solutions.

***Watch this week's episode as recorded in video form on the Ballard Designs YouTube Channel***

What You’ll Hear On This Episode: 

• 00:00 Introduction to the How to Decorate Podcast
• 00:34 Meet the Designers: James Dolenz and Tom Riker
• 01:55 The Journey of James Thomas Firm
• 04:22 Building a Creative and Supportive Team
• 05:32 Design Philosophy and Client Interaction
• 08:10 Advice for Aspiring Interior Designers
• 14:33 Learning the Craft: From Novices to Experts
• 20:11 Influences and Inspirations in Design
• 22:57 Trends and Timeless Design
• 26:58 Creating Cozy and Inviting Spaces
• 30:43 Creating Cozy Spaces with Natural Elements
• 32:56 Designing a British Colonial Inspired Home
• 34:37 Choosing the Right Wall Colors
• 36:53 The Importance of Details in Interior Design
• 38:56 Incorporating Unique Materials and Textures
• 40:59 A Stunning Tortoise Shell Ceiling
• 45:40 Listener's Decorating Dilemma: Making an 80s Home Cohesive
• 54:39 Wrapping Up: Where to Find Us

Decorating Dilemma:

**Follow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma on the How to Decorate Blog**

Hi, Joanne!

James and Tom suggest adding tongue and groove paneling to the ceiling for texture and continuity, incorporating a room-sized sisal rug, and updating window treatments with motorized shades for sun control. They advise lighter accent pillows to add warmth and scale the coffee table for balance. For personalized window solutions, they also recommend consulting a specialist.

Best of luck, Joanne, and we can’t wait to see your space transformation!

- How to Decorate

Also Mentioned:

• James Thomas Interiors | Website
• @jamesthomasinteriors | Instagram
• Ballard Designs
• Ballard Designs YouTube | Watch Full Episodes w/ Images