Get ready for a jolt of kitchen inspiration this week (and some myth-busting) as we re-united with Sophie Donelson, a design expert, journalist, and strategist who celebrates the connection between people and their homes. We last caught up with Sophie back in 2017 (episode #30) when she was the editor-in-chief of House Beautiful Magazine, but this week it’s all about her latest book, Uncommon Kitchens: A Revolutionary Approach to the Most Popular Room in the House.
Sophie provides insight into kitchen design and trends, reminding us that there are many ways to enjoy one’s kitchen. She discusses the idea of “liberated design” -bringing in nostalgic elements that also consider flexibility and functionality rather than following surface-level trends. Sophie shares some great advice on designing spaces that truly reflect how you use your kitchen daily, the “kitchen triangle” concept, and tips on lighting, color palettes, and storage solutions.
Follow along with this pictures of this week's decorating dilemma here.
Thanks, Maggie! What a beautiful space you have to work with. First, Sophie’s thoughts are that you should start by focusing on establishing a thoughtful layout. Creating a cozy desk or seating area near the windows, then adding targeted lighting in each space, will help define comfortable vignettes. Area rugs can further separate intimate seating zones. Incorporating traditional architectural details while bringing in modern accessories will help balance your desired aesthetics. Drapery along the walls can frame focal points without needing full coverage. Taking inspiration from your arched entryway, an eye-catching display on the opposite wall may help draw the eye. Don't feel you need to fill every inch - prioritizing functionality and comfort will make the most of your gorgeous Greek Revival home. We're excited to see how your space evolves!
Ep. 263: Pools, Patios, and Porches w/ landscape architect Brantley Snipes
Ep. 262: What Makes Upholstery Last with Hope Austin
Ep. 261: Trials and Triumphs
Ep. 260: Best Ways to Make a Room Look Finished with Jenna Gross
Ep. 259: Living Large in Small Spaces with Ginger Curtis
Ep. 258: Giving New Builds Charm & Character with Brandon Ingram
Ep. 257: Trials & Triumphs
Ep. 256: Vibrant Interiors with Andrea Monath Schumacher
Ep. 255: Breaking Design Rules with Summer Thornton
Ep. 254: Designing Kid Spaces with Pebbles Nix
Ep. 253: Trials & Triumphs
Ep. 252: A Modern Take on Traditional Design with Katie Rosenfield
Ep. 251: How to Hire an Interior Designer with Emily Wyatt
Ep. 250: Landscape Design with Carmen Johnston
Ep. 249: A Sustainable Approach to Design with Laurence Carr
Ep. 248: Creating Outdoor Spaces with Brantley Snipes
Ep. 247: Product Design 101
Ep. 246: How to Live in Color with Sophie Robinson
Ep. 245: Modern Approaches to Classical Architecture with Jeffrey Dungan
Ep. 244: Furniture Buying Tips
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
Dear Alice | Interior Design
99% Invisible
The John Clay Wolfe Show
Anne of Green Gables
A Tale of Two Cities
In the Making
Design Better