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. 204: thrifting expert Margie of Thrift & Tell
Ep. 203: designer James Farmer
Ep. 202: designer Heidi Callier
Ep. 201: designer Corey Damen Jenkins
Ep. 200: designer Brian Paquette
Ep. 199: designer Kate Lester
Ep. 198: designer Roger Higgins
Ep. 197: interior design duo Tavia Forbes & Monet Masters
Ep. 196: designer Melanie Turner
Ep. 195: designer Clinton Smith
Ep. 194: art expert Katharine Earnhardt
Ep. 193: Houston week designer Meg Lonergan
Ep. 192: Houston Week Jacob Medina
Ep. 191: Houston Week Art Advisor Illa Gaunt
Ep. 190: Houston Week Designer Sherrell Neal
Ep. 189: Houston Week Designer Marie Flanigan
Ep. 188: designer Jean Liu
Ep. 187: architect & interior designer Barry Goralnick
Ep. 186: designer Traci Connell
Ep. 185: Britt & Damian Zunino
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
Dear Alice | Interior Design
99% Invisible
The John Clay Wolfe Show
Gulliver’s Travels
Pride and Prejudice
Design Better
Dudes ”R” Us