Business of Home Podcast - Business of Home, Dennis Scully

The Thursday Show: Looking back on the biggest stories of 2024. Plus: RH picks up steam Dec 19, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including layoffs at Sotheby’s, RH’s latest earnings report, and the return of colorful bathrooms. Later, editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and retail columnist Warren Shoulberg join the show to recap 2024.

This episode is sponsored by Kohler

LINKS
Furniture Bank Network
Business of Home

House & Garden: How a British magazine became a must-read for American designers Dec 16, 2024

Though House & Garden is a British magazine, it has become a must-read for many American designers, who flock to the publication for its storytelling and production value, its classic English style, and its focus on great homes, not celebrities.

In this episode of the podcast, House & Garden editor Hatta Byng speaks with host Dennis Scully about why she’s been embracing digital platforms like TikTok and WhatsApp, why she wants the homes in her magazine to be ‘believable,’ and how House & Garden provides comfort in a time of instability.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Klafs

LINKS
House & Garden
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Who gets to call themselves a designer? Plus: Why Elizabeth Ralls bought Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Dec 12, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including the new AD100, a potential TikTok ban, and the age-old debate about who gets to call themselves a designer. Later, publisher Elizabeth Ralls joins the show to explain why she bought Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles.

This episode is sponsored by Kohler

LINKS
Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles
Business of Home

Why House of Hackney put Mother Nature on its board of directors Dec 09, 2024

A former buyer at the fashion chain Topshop, Frieda Gormley and her husband Javvy Royle left the corporate world behind to start a brand with a deep connection to nature. The result was a vibrant collection of patterns, and a business that looked to do good as much as it did well—Gormley and Royle have even taken the bold step of carving out a role for Mother Nature on their board of directors.

On this episode of the podcast Gormley speaks with host Dennis Scully about the difficult first year that defined their business, why they implemented a four-day work week, and why they’re very cautious when it comes to growth.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Klafs

LINKS
House of Hackney
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Kravet sells. Plus: Lindye Galloway's new brand Dec 05, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including RH’s largest gallery ever, layoffs at EJ Victor, and big news from Kravet. Later, the husband-and-wife team of Winn and Lindye Galloway discuss the launch of their new brand, Le Maé.

This episode is sponsored by Kohler

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Lindye Galloway
Le Maé
Business of Home

Andre Mellone wants less perfection, more emotion Dec 02, 2024

Born in Brazil, Andre Mellone’s upbringing took him from Sao Paolo to Syracuse when he moved to the U.S. to study architecture. From there, he worked for the heavyweights of high design in New York, from Robert A.M. Stern to Mark Hampton to Ferguson & Shamamian. Out on his own, Mellone has garnered buzz and media attention for his signature look, an aesthetic sometimes described as “midcentury masculine,” with a recent project for Lauren Santo Domingo landing him on Architectural Digest’s December cover.

On this episode of the podcast, Mellone speaks with host Dennis Scully about the key lessons he learned working for design icons; why all designers—no matter how much they hate it—should be involved in the financial side of their business; and why design is about emotion, not perfection.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Klafs
LINKS
Studio Mellone
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The couple behind Patina Farm on why great design comes from feelings, not rules Nov 25, 2024

The husband-and-wife team of Brooke and Steve Giannetti are nothing if not multitalented. He's architect, she's a designer, but together the two of them have done a little bit of everything: from opening a shop in small-town Tennessee to creating homes for A-List celebrities to caring for a menagerie of sheep, donkeys, goats and highland cattle on their farm, Patina Meadow.

On this episode of the podcast, the Giannettis speak with host Dennis Scully about how working with animals informs both their lives and their business, how they keep clients excited over the course of a long project, and why designers should be curious about new technology—not fearful.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke
LINKS
Patina Home & Garden
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Is the design industry ready for more tariffs? Plus: Ken Fulk's new LA shop Nov 21, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including the debut of Amazon’s ultra-cheap marketplace, a check-in on the housing market, and how tariffs might impact the home industry. Later, designer Ken Fulk joins the show to talk about his new Southern California retail outpost.

This episode is sponsored by Kohler and Klafs

LINKS
Ken Fulk
Business of Home

Why Tom Stringer gives his employees sabbaticals and executive coaching Nov 18, 2024

An icon of Chicago’s design scene, Tom Stringer cut his teeth working for Alessandra Branca before starting his own firm in the mid 1990s. Over the decades his work has been widely featured in the shelter media, and his projects for some of America’s most notable families have taken him around the world.

On this episode of the podcast, Stringer chats with host Dennis Scully about his surprising vetting process for new clients, why he gives his employees sabbaticals and executive coaching, and why he’s at his best when he’s in a little over his head.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke
LINKS
Tom Stringer Design Partners
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Inside the rise of design Substack. Plus: Why designers are embracing WhatsApp Nov 14, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including the fate of the DCOTA, rising mortgage rates, and the design industry’s next killer app. Later, Substack writers Leonora Epstein and David Michon join the show to talk about how the platform is changing design media.

This episode is sponsored by Kohler and Klafs

LINKS
For Scale
Schmatta
Business of Home

Hickory Chair is betting on color Nov 11, 2024

Started over one hundred years ago with a single product, Hickory Chair has grown over the decades and changed hands several times, but it never left North Carolina. Out of a single facility, the company produces both upholstery and case goods using the same techniques it has for generations.
On this episode of the podcast, host Dennis Scully speaks with the brand’s president Federico Contigiani about the challenges of building a brand in home; why design both is and isn’t like fashion; and why, no matter what technology brings, furniture will always be a trust business.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke
LINKS
Hickory Chair
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: How Dan Rosen became TikTok's favorite design critic. Plus: Who will take the helm at Elle Decor? Nov 07, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including more Charles Cohen drama, changes at the top for several shelter publications, and a look at Kravet’s latest tech experiment. Later, comedian Dan Rosen joins the show to talk about his accidental career as a design critic.

This episode is sponsored by Kohler and Klafs

LINKS
Dan Rosen
Middlebrow Podcast
Business of Home

How Roche Bobois blends furniture, fashion, and the French 'Art de Vivre' Nov 04, 2024

Founded in 1960, over the decades Roche Bobois has become synonymous with chic contemporary design. The first furniture brand to advertise in fashion magazines, today Roche Bobois’s hit products include the iconic Mah Jong and Bubble sofas, and hundreds of the brand’s showrooms are spread out all over the world.

On this episode of the podcast, the brand’s international director Martin Gleize speaks with host Dennis Scully about why the post-COVID landscape is fraught with confusion for furniture companies, the opportunities and challenges in China, and why the biggest mistake for any brand is to try to be two things at once.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke
LINKS
Roche Bobois
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: What happened at High Point? Plus: Why Williams-Sonoma is suing Dupe.com Oct 31, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including Design Manager’s new acquisitions, why Williams Sonoma is suing Dupe.com, and Amazon’s rumored $20 sofa. Later, BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen joins the show to recap High Point Market.

This episode is sponsored by Kohler and Klafs

LINKS
High Point Market
Business of Home

Susana Simonpietri of Chango wants to break the cycle of toxic workplaces Oct 28, 2024

After an artistic childhood in San Juan, Puerto Rico, interior designer Susana Simonpietri’s early studies took her to Europe and then New York, where she went on to work for some of the industry’s biggest names. Since going out on her own in the wake of the great recession, Simonpietri has built up a team of 30, published her work widely in top shelter magazines, and brought a warm, thoughtfully edited approach to projects across the country

On this episode of the podcast, Simonpietri speaks with host Dennis Scully about how past experiences have taught her to screen clients carefully, how she learned to hire and work with the next generation of designers, and why she’s determined to break the industry cycle of toxic workplaces.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands and Surya
LINKS
Chango
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Is design media too celebrity-obsessed? Plus: The Ticking Tent heads to Brooklyn Oct 24, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including more fallout from Hurricane Helene, a renovation boom and what a controversial celebrity home tour says about the state of design media. Later, Christina Juarez and Ben Reynaert share the story of their shoppable event, The Ticking Tent.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Isla Porter
LINKS
The Thursday Show live at High Point Market
The Ticking Tent
Business of Home

Ruggable's 'overnight success' was a decade in the making Oct 21, 2024

In recent years, Ruggable’s machine washable rugs have become a bona fide hit product, but the company is anything but an overnight success. Founder Jeneva Bell’s story is an agonizing tale of false starts, setbacks and roadblocks—it took almost a decade of effort to get Ruggable off the ground. Today the company employs hundreds across three factories, and drops regular collaborations with top designers like Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Jonathan Adler and Justina Blakeney.

On this episode of the podcast Bell tells host Dennis Scully about how she found the resilience to get through hard times, why reading memoirs beats looking at social media, and why there’s more to success than just hard work.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands and Surya
LINKS
Ruggable
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Banana Republic quits furniture, Havenly makes a buy. Plus: The state of play in home retail Oct 17, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including Havenly’s newest acquisition, Banana Republic’s exit from furniture, and why Hearst’s AI deal is drawing backlash. Later, columnist Warren Shoulberg joins the show to break down the state of play in home retail.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Isla Porter
LINKS
The Thursday Show live at High Point Market
Warren Shoulberg
Business of Home

Mark D. Sikes's muse is America Oct 14, 2024

Mark D. Sikes came to design as a second career after decades in retail, but he’s made up for lost time. In just over ten years, he’s released three best-selling books, earned a spot on the AD100, and worked for high-profile clients like Reese Witherspoon, Nancy Meyers and Dr. Jill Biden. More recently, Sikes brought his take on classic American style to Blair House, redesigning an iconic Washington residence used to host heads of state: its guest list includes everyone from Winston Churchill to Justin Trudeau.

On this episode of the podcast, Sikes speaks to host Dennis Scully about why consistency has been the key to his success, the surprising strategy that helped his books take off, and why his muse is America.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands and Surya
LINKS
Mark D. Sikes
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: East Fork's Alex Matisse on rebuilding after Helene. Plus: Will a wave of silicosis lawsuits upend the engineered stone industry? Oct 10, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including a quick end to the dockworkers strike, the shuttering of an online antiques site, and a look at whether a wave of silicosis lawsuits will upend the world of engineered stone. Later, East Fork CEO Alex Matisse joins the show to talk about Helene's impact and what comes next for North Carolina.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Isla Porter

HELENE RELIEF
Red Cross of North Carolina
BeLoved Asheville

LINKS
East Fork
Business of Home

From coronations to red telephone booths, Watts 1874 is a textile brand intertwined with British history Oct 07, 2024

Watts dates back to the late 19th century, when three architects banded together to start a company that made fabrics and decor for both the church and residential use. Over the course of the next 150 years, Watts’ history would be intertwined with Britain’s—it produced garments worn during the coronations of Edward VII, Elizabeth II and Charles III. Today, it’s also a modern fabric and wallcoverings brand, sold to designers all over the world.

On this episode of the podcast, host Dennis Scully speaks to Watts’ creative director Fiona Flint and its managing director Marie Severine de Caraman Chimay (better known as “MS”) about how the company has survived a century and a half by staying nimble, the ups and downs of doing business in America, and how they walk the line between celebrating their history and looking to the future.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands and Surya
LINKS
Watts 1874
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Helene hits North Carolina and dockworkers strike. Plus: Nasozi Kakembo's African decor edit Oct 03, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including this week’s port strike, why Zillow is highlighting climate risks, and Hurricane Helene’s impact on the design community. Later, designer and author Nasozi Kakembo joins the show to talk about her book on African decor.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Isla Porter

HELENE RELIEF
Red Cross of North Carolina
BeLoved Asheville

LINKS
Nasozi Kakembo
Business of Home

Peter Sallick on Waterworks' next chapter, and the biggest challenge the design trade faces today Sep 30, 2024

Started as a shop for bathroom hardware in the 1970s, Waterworks has grown over the decades into a $200 million kitchen and bath company with national scale. Eight years after being acquired by RH, more growth is on the horizon: RH CEO Gary Friedman has said Waterworks could one day be a billion-dollar brand.

On this episode of the podcast, CEO Peter Sallick talks with host Dennis Scully about what he’s learned from Friedman, finding the balance between art and engineering, and why the biggest challenge trade brands face is simply letting consumers know they exist.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi, Crypton and Rowe
LINKS
Waterworks
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: David Netto and Paul Goldberger on Rosario Candela, the mastermind behind New York's most desired apartments. Plus: Why brands are pivoting to the trade Sep 26, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including last week’s interest rate cut, a card game for design clients, and why a growing number of brands are turning to the trade. Later, designer David Netto and architecture critic Paul Goldberger join the show to talk about their new book on iconic New York architect Rosario Candela.

This episode is sponsored by Hartmann&Forbes and Chelsea House

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David Netto
Paul Goldberger
Business of Home

Valdese Weavers CEO Blake Millinor can see the future of fabric Sep 23, 2024

You may not know the name Valdese Weavers, but you know their product. One of the last large-scale textile mills in America, Valdese produces fabric for everyone from retailers like Arhaus and RH to brands like Kravet and Thibaut. On this episode of the podcast, Valdese Weavers president and CEO Blake Millinor speaks with host Dennis Scully about how beige and gray took over the market; the challenges of delivering both performance and sustainability; and how Valdese has managed to thrive not by setting rigid five-year plans, but by staying loose, nimble and diversified.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi, Crypton and Rowe
LINKS
Valdese Weavers
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Leanne Ford on the pleasures of staying small and slowing down. Plus: Has RH turned a corner? Sep 19, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including Asad Syrkett’s forthcoming departure from Elle Decor, RH’s latest earnings call and why millionaire renters are on the rise. Later, designer Leanne Ford joins the show to talk about her new book, The Slow Down.

This episode is sponsored by Hartmann&Forbes and Chelsea House

LINKS
Leanne Ford
Business of Home

Peter Dunham takes Manhattan Sep 16, 2024

By day, Peter Dunham runs a busy design firm, but he’s also the owner of one of LA’s most notable showrooms—Hollywood at Home. The last time Dunham was on the podcast, he was navigating the confusions of Covid. Now he’s going bicoastal and opening a new showroom in New York under his own name.

On this episode of the show he speaks with host Dennis Scully about the differences between design culture in New York and Los Angeles, why textiles are like lipstick, and how he knew he was finally ready to expand.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi, Crypton and Rowe
LINKS
Peter Dunham
Peter Dunham Home & Garden
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Tori Mellott's take on Southern style. Plus: How paint colors get their names Sep 12, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including more challenges for furniture brands, whether the American dream still includes a house with a white picket fence, and a look at how paint colors get their names. Later, Tori Mellott joins the show to talk about her new book, Southern Interiors.

This episode is sponsored by Hartmann&Forbes and Chelsea House

LINKS
Tori Mellott
Business of Home

Nicole Hollis's superpowers Sep 09, 2024

A veteran of the hospitality world, Nicole Hollis was part of the team that developed the W Hotels before going out on her own and pivoting to residential work. Over the course of two decades, Hollis built up an impressive firm, with a team of nearly 100 working out of her San Francisco office. Hollis herself has won numerous accolades for her work, including regular appearances on both Elle Decor’s A-List and the AD100.

On this episode of the podcast she speaks with host Dennis Scully about how she built a big firm, step by step; why residential projects are more lucrative for her firm than commercial work; and why so much of her work with clients is about communicating the most information in the least amount of time possible.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Rowe
LINKS
Nicole Hollis
Artistry of Home
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Mieke ten Have and the art of styling. Plus: How brown became the color of wealth Sep 05, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including the ongoing controversy over quartz countertops, why college students are embracing luxury design for their dorms, and how brown became the color of wealth. Later, stylist Mieke ten Have joins the show to talk about her new book.

This episode is sponsored by Hartmann&Forbes and Chelsea House

LINKS
Mitchell Owens fundraiser
Mieke ten Have
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: The new rules of real estate. Plus: Kaiyo shutters Aug 29, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including Kaiyo’s abrupt closure, Ikea’s new secondhand marketplace, and a look at why Crypton is suing Williams Sonoma. Later, New York Times real estate reporter Debra Kamin joins the show to explore how a massive legal ruling has reshaped the way homes are bought and sold.

This episode is sponsored by Surya

LINKS
Mitchell Owens fundraiser
Debra Kamin
Business of Home

Blackberry Farm: The story of tragedy and resilience behind the design world's favorite Southern retreat Aug 26, 2024

A luxury resort tucked away in the foothills of Tennessee’s smoky mountains, Blackberry Farm defies easy categorization. Spread across thousands of acres, it encompasses everything from world class restaurants and spas to a fly fishing program, equestrian facility, farmstead and larder. Blackberry Farm also boasts a surprisingly robust design department, perhaps part of the reason why it has become a favorite getaway for luminaries in our industry.

On this episode, proprietor Mary Celeste Beall speaks with host Dennis Scully about balancing different goals for different parts of the business, why it sometimes makes sense to spend on illogical investments, and the story of tragedy and resilience in her own life that underpins all of her work at Blackberry Farm.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi
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Mary Celeste Beall
Blackberry Farm
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Jenni Kayne's adventures in home and hospitality. Plus: Is the DCOTA headed for auction? Aug 22, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including Perigold’s plans for brick-and-mortar stores, a housing check-in, and why the DCOTA is back on the auction block. Later, fashion designer Jenni Kayne joins the show to talk about her home line and her new hospitality venture.

This episode is sponsored by Surya

LINKS
The Jenni Kayne Farmhouse
Business of Home

Jamie Bush's firm is the biggest it's ever been. He's loving it Aug 19, 2024

Born in New York, Jamie Bush studied architecture in New Orleans before finally making his way to Los Angeles, where his career took off. His multifaceted work is regularly featured in national magazines, and his firm is featured on the both the AD100 and Elle Decor’s A-List. On this episode of the podcast, Bush speaks to host Dennis Scully about why interior designers sometimes get more respect than architects, his early days working for Kelly Wearstler, and why his philosophy, at heart, is simple: Leave everything better than how you found it.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi
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Jamie Bush
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Accessible design is in demand. Is the industry ready? Plus: Another big retailer goes bankrupt Aug 15, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including another retail bankruptcy, why donating furniture is so challenging, and a look at how designers dress. Later, Rob Van Varick of Michael Graves Design joins the show to talk about the company's new accessibility collection with Pottery Barn.

This episode is sponsored by Surya

LINKS
Michael Graves Design X Pottery Barn
Business of Home

Meet the Amish furniture company that works with Sasha Bikoff, The Met and the FBI Aug 12, 2024

Ernie Hershberger is the founder and CEO of the furniture brand Abner Henry. Born and raised in an Amish community in Fredericksburg, Ohio, Hershberger grew up in his family’s century-old cabinetry workshop before launching his own furniture business. Over time, he got into the higher-end, custom side of the market and Abner Henry became a source for everyone from Sasha Bikoff to the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

In this episode of the podcast, Hershberger speaks with host Dennis Scully about challenging the perception around what Amish furniture is “supposed” to be, why he doesn’t believe in setting sales goals, and the surprising technology that powers his business.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi
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Abner Henry
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Is the housing market finally heating up? Plus: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams is back Aug 08, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including the return of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, some AI experiments from Houzz, and what a stock market crash might mean for designers. Later, real estate analyst Jonathan Miller joins the show to talk about whether the frozen housing market is finally heating up.

This episode is sponsored by Surya

LINKS
Miller Samuel
Business of Home

How Hector Finch is winning on the 'slow and steady' route Aug 05, 2024

Hector and Emma Finch are the married couple behind the British lighting company Hector Finch. Started as an antiques business, the two have stayed true to their roots, producing a line of lighting inspired by classic early 20th century pieces. Today, the company's products are sold all over the world, including top showrooms in the U.S.

In this episode of the podcast, host Dennis Scully speaks with the Finches about not getting hung up on knockoffs, the challenge of connecting with young designers, and why, no matter what the economic conditions, they’re focusing on slow-and-steady growth.
This episode is sponsored by Loloi
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Hector Finch
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Inside Studio Designer's MyDoma deal. Plus: How many interior designers are there? Aug 01, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including a massive retail bankruptcy, the health of the high-end real estate market and the vanishing American porch. Later, Keith Granet of Studio Designer and Sarah Daniele of MyDoma join the show to discuss the deal that brought their two companies together.

This episode is sponsored by Isla Porter

LINKS
Studio Designer
MyDoma
Business of Home

How Olive Ateliers became the industry's buzziest vintage source Jul 29, 2024

Laura Sotelo, Kendall Knox, Ben Knox are the founders of the buzzy brand Olive Ateliers. In 2021, as a side hustle, the three friends started sourcing vintage pieces from all over the world and curating them into biweekly “drops” in Los Angeles. Almost immediately, there were lines around the block, their site took off, and Olive Ateliers developed a devoted fan base including designers and celebrities alike.

On this episode of the podcast the three speak with host Dennis Scully why they wanted to start their business quickly, why the most effective sales tool is storytelling, and why they’ve come to believe in “strong opinions, weakly held”

This episode is sponsored by Loloi
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Olive Ateliers
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Do clients want 'unoriginal' bathrooms? Plus: The fight against megamansions Jul 25, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including a cyberattack on Bassett, a design software acquisition, and the fight over megamansions. Later, the founders of bathroom renovation startup The Unoriginal Bathroom Co. join the show to discuss their new venture.

This episode is sponsored by Isla Porter

LINKS
The Unoriginal Bathroom Co.
Business of Home

Jomo Tariku on what it takes to change the canon Jul 22, 2024

Jomo Tariku’s life and career have followed a winding path, from his childhood in Ethiopia to a design degree in Kansas and a stint in data visualization at the World Bank. Today, he’s internationally recognized as a furniture designer, with pieces in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Tariku is also the creator of an impactful 2020 study that demonstrated the startling lack of Black furniture designers working with major manufacturers.
In this episode of the podcast, Tariku speaks with host Dennis Scully about why data is more powerful than anecdotal evidence, why he’s getting into wallpaper and other categories, and what it will take to truly make design a global language.

This episode is sponsored by Loloiand Isla Porter
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Jomo Furniture
Jomo Tariku
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Designer Susan Wintersteen on founding Savvy Giving by Design. Plus: Fortress is back with a new foreclosure plan for Cohen Brothers Realty Jul 18, 2024

BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including Etsy’s return to its artisan roots, surging home insurance premiums and key business lessons from the 50 States Project. Later, designer Susan Wintersteen joins the show to talk about founding Savvy Giving by Design.

This episode is sponsored by Isla Porter.

LINKS
Savvy Giving by Design
Business of Home

Where Alex Shuford of Rock House Farm sees the next big opportunity Jul 15, 2024

When Alex Shuford-CEO of Rock House Farm, the family of brands that includes Century, Hickory Chair, and Highland House-was on the podcast last year, he was optimistic about 2024. Halfway through the year, his optimism remains intact, and once the smoke clears from the elections in the fall, he thinks the combination of pent-up demand and a generational wealth shift will lead to significant opportunity for the industry next year and beyond.

On this episode of the show, Shuford engages in a wide-ranging conversation about where the home industry might be heading next. He speaks with host Dennis Scully about the changing role of independent furniture stores, the state of competitors like RH and Arhaus, and why he’ll be testing out a multi-brand showroom in Vegas for the very first time.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi
LINKS

Rock House Farm
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Apartment Therapy CEO Maxwell Ryan on winning the new search game. Plus: Financial trouble continues for the D&D Building Jul 11, 2024

BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including he latest in the Kim Kardashian copycat lawsuit, a look at the D&D building’s new financial troubles, and a mid-year report card for home retailers. Later, Apartment Therapy founder Maxwell Ryan joins the show to talk about winning the new search game.

This episode is sponsored by Isla Porter.

LINKS
Apartment Therapy
Business of Home

What happens when you take a showroom on the road? Jul 08, 2024

This spring, Thomas Lavin and Jobi Blachy of Quintus decided to experiment with taking their showrooms on the road, staging pop-up events in Southern California for local designers. The events were a success, and now they’re planning more—as well as a host of other concepts for connecting with the next generation of the trade.

On this episode of the podcast, they speak with host Dennis Scully about why designers will come out for an event but not a showroom appointment; what the mansion tax and the writer’s strike meant for the LA design scene; and what the Japanese concept of Kaizen has to do with running a showroom.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi
LINKS
Thomas Lavin
Quintus
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Bernhardt's CEO: 'Furniture is a fashion business' Jul 01, 2024

Founded in 1889, Bernhardt one of the oldest family-owned furniture companies in America (if not the oldest). However, under CEO Alex Bernhardt Jr.’s leadership, the company hasn’t leaned on its heritage—instead, it’s focused on aesthetics and staying ahead of the design curve. On this episode of the podcast, Bernhardt speaks about why he’s not stressed by dupes, why he believes the pandemic ate through eight or nine years of business, and why furniture is above all a fashion industry.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi

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Bernhardt
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: The story behind Thibaut's acquisition of Rosemary Hallgarten. Plus: The future of the family decorator Jun 27, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including supply chain snarls that some are calling "Covid Junior," out of control home prices and the future of the family decorator. Later, Rosemary Hallgarten and Thibaut CEO Rick Kilmer join the show to talk about the deal that will see their companies join forces.

LINKS
Rosemary Hallgarten
Thibaut
Business of Home

Why The World of Interiors publishes everything from pigsties to palaces Jun 24, 2024

Emily Tobin joined The World of Interiors in 2021 and has since earned a promotion to the top spot. Her mission is to preserve what makes the cult favorite magazine so delightfully unique while also delicately bringing it into the digital age. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about the story behind Hamish Bowles’ tenure as editor in chief, why The World of Interiors didn’t have a website until 2022, and what’s behind the magazine’s incredible range—from dilapidated mansions to Madonna’s bedroom.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi

LINKS
The World of Interiors
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Mitchell Owens wants to make antiques fun again. Plus: RH reports a loss Jun 20, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including RH earnings, the latest AI design tools, and Tom Dixon’s unconventional strategy for fighting knockoffs. Later, journalist Mitchell Owens joins the show to talk about his new job as editor in chief of The Magazine Antiques.

LINKS
The Magazine Antiques
Mitchell Owens
Business of Home

Markham Roberts keeps calm and decorates on Jun 17, 2024

An accomplished interior designer who cut his teeth working for the legendary Mark Hampton, Markham Roberts is known for rooms as refined as they are lively. His work has been widely recognized by the press, and he’s a regular on Elle Decor’s A-List and the AD100. On this episode of the podcast, Roberts speaks with host Dennis Scully about why clients having access to too much information is a double-edged sword, how publishing a book gave him three of his biggest jobs, and why, in interior design, staying calm is everything.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi

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Markham Roberts
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Oka shutters, St. Frank is acquired, and Carpenters Workshop Gallery faces serious accusations Jun 13, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including the shuttering of Oka, serious accusations against Carpenter’s Workshop Gallery, a new Havenly acquisition, and an “adventure” with RH CEO Gary Friedman.

LINKS
Business of Home

From historic renovations to TikTok, The Brownstone Boys do it all Jun 10, 2024

Together, Jordan Slocum and Barry Bordelon—better known as The Brownstone Boys—have a unique hybrid business: a busy renovation firm that tackles historic restorations in New York City, and a fast-growing media presence that includes brand deals, TV appearances, and now, a new book. On this episode of the podcast, they speak with host Dennis Scully about playing “good cop, bad cop” on the job site, what Sesame Street has to do with brownstone renovations, and why they’re determined to keep going as both influencers and renovators.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi

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The Brownstone Boys
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Another case of photo theft. Plus: The latest in fabric with The Textile Eye's Saana Baker Jun 06, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including another photo theft scandal; the rise of branded residences, and why designers are having second thoughts about e-commerce. Later, Textile Eye editor Saana Baker joins the show to discuss trends and takeaways from spring fabric fairs

This episode is sponsored by Loloi

LINKS
The Textile Eye
Business of Home

Verellen's secret weapon? Treating customers like guests Jun 03, 2024

Tom Verellen took a winding route to get where he is, one that took him from his native Belgium to Ohio, through a fabric importing business and finally to North Carolina. Today the company that bears his name, Verellen, is lauded as one of the industry's most imaginative furniture makers, with a collection that balances quality, sustainability and style.

On this episode of the podcast he speaks with host Dennis Scully about how offering Belgian hospitality to his customers has helped his business stand out, why ivory boucle may have finally peaked, and why designers are key to the future of Verellen.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi

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Verellen
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Elle Decor unveils its A-List. Plus: Grant Trick's new partnership May 30, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including a deep dive into the world of design newsletters, a cyberattack on Christie’s, and Elle Decor’s new A-List. Later, upholsterer Grant Trick joins the show to discuss a new partnership.

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Grant Trick
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Takeaways from New York's design week. Plus: Bellacor shutters, Burke Decor struggles May 23, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including including an e-commerce collapse, Williams Sonoma’s latest numbers, and a viral home tour show that’s taking viewers into some unexpected rooms. Later journalist Stephen Treffinger joins the show to recap New York's design week.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

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Stephen Treffinger
Business of Home

Projects, products, parties: Why Buchanan Studio loves to design them all May 20, 2024

Angus and Charlotte Buchanan are the husband-and-wife team behind London-based interior design firm Buchanan Studio. By taking a holistic approach to design, the pair have built a unique business that tackles everything from residential projects to products to events. Their inventive work has been recognized by press around the world, and their young firm is already winning a place on industry best-of lists.

On this episode of the podcast they speak with host Dennis Scully about working together as a couple, why getting into product has helped bring stability to their business, and why once a year they set aside time for pure creativity.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands

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Buchanan Studio
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: What's behind the custom furniture boom? Plus: Wayfair opens its first store May 16, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including earnings reports from Arhaus and 1stdibs, highlights from Legends, and what’s behind a surge in custom furniture. Later retail columnist Warren Shoulberg joins the show to chat about Wayfair's first venture into physical retail.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

LINKS
Business of Home

Inside the world of elite contracting with Josh Wiener of SilverLining May 13, 2024

Once an aspiring actor, Josh Wiener did small painting jobs to make a living while he auditioned for roles. Over time, contracting became his sole focus, his business and his passion, and today his company, SilverLining, is one of New York’s most prominent residential firms, collaborating with architects and designers like Peter Marino, Bunny Williams, and David Kleinberg.

On this episode Josh speaks with host Dennis Scully about why building costs seem to keep going up, the problem with relying too much on renderings, and what separates a great designer from a good one.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands

LINKS
SilverLining
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Justina Blakeney's next chapter. Plus: Takeaways from the Kips Bay Decorator Show House May 09, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including the fate of Banana Republic’s home brand, takeaways from the Kips Bay Decorator Show House, and what Instagram’s newest update could mean for designers. Later, artist and designer Justina Blakeney of Jungalow discusses a new phase of her career.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

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Justina Blakeney
Business of Home's book club
Business of Home

Julie Hillman on why designers shouldn't settle (even on the small stuff) May 06, 2024

Interior designer Julie Hillman started her career in fashion with a decade-long stint at Liz Claiborne. But after she built her own home, she got hooked on decorating, and turned it into a career. Now Hillman’s work is featured in magazines the world over, and her firm is an AD100 regular.

On this episode of the podcast she speaks with host Denis Scully about the pleasures and perils of sourcing art for clients, why the collectible design movement is just getting started, and why, when it comes to the details of a project, she doesn’t like to settle on a single thing.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands

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Julie Hillman
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Will Guidara on why designers should embrace “Unreasonable Hospitality.” Plus: Does the TikTok ‘ban’ matter? May 02, 2024

BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including why Williams-Sonoma was fined by the Federal Trade Commission, the latest in the Cohen Brothers real estate saga, and what a noncompete ban could mean for the design industry. Later, restauranteur Will Guidara joins to introduce his new book, "Unreasonable Hospitality."

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

LINKS
Business of Home's book club
Business of Home

How Bryan O’Sullivan maintains a team of growing leaders Apr 29, 2024

Growing up in Kenmare—a small town in County Kerry, Ireland—Bryan O'Sullivan learned the importance of hospitality and service from the comfort of his mom’s coffee shop. Pulled toward the field of architecture and design, he soon set off for school in London, and further honed his craft under design greats like Martin Brudnizki, Annabelle Selldorf and David Collins. In 2013, he took what he learned and launched his own firm. With a blend of hospitality and residential work, he quickly became one of the industry’s fastest-rising stars.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands

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Bryan O'Sullivan
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Highlights from Milan Design Week. Plus: Pirch goes bankrupt Apr 25, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including the debut of a new source for designer fabric, the latest with Pirch, and a look at why luxury home sellers are slashing prices. Later, design journalist Ian Volner joins the show to recap Milan Design Week .

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

LINKS
Business of Home's book club
Business of Home

Nathan Turner loves humor, California, and the freedom of a small firm Apr 22, 2024

A fourth-generation Californian, Nathan Turner’s style is seeped in the culture and aesthetics of the Golden State. After college he opened a shop in Los Angeles that quickly became a designer favorite—but a role on the hit reality show Million Dollar Decorators rocket-powered his own design career.

Now Turner is launching his own fabric line and considering a return to retail. On this episode of the podcast he speaks with host Dennis Scully about the lessons he learned from Mario Buatta, how being on TV landed him clients in Asia, and why he doesn’t think about holes in the market—but rather, what he has to offer.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Hartmann&Forbes

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Nathan Turner
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: What happened at High Point? Plus: Ralph Lauren Home debuts a new partnership Apr 18, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including a look at why Baby Boomers aren’t downsizing, the latest with Ralph Lauren Home, and a check-in on the state of AI-powered design. Later, BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen joins the show to recap High Point Spring market.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

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High Point Market
Business of Home

Gil Schafer on the importance of getting out of your comfort zone Apr 15, 2024

Early on, Gil Schafer discovered a passion for classical residential architecture and devoted his career to it. His firm, Schafer Buccellato architects, is widely recognized for creating superlative traditional homes, and Schafer has won numerous awards, as well as regular inclusion on the AD100. He’s also known for his collaborations with designers, having worked with industry stars like Bunny Williams, David Netto and Miles Redd.

On this episode of the podcast, Schafer speaks with host Dennis Scully about why every firm needs a great finance person, how becoming a stepfather to two teenagers deepened his practice, and why it’s important to learn the rules of design before you break them

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Hartmann&Forbes

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Schafer Buccellato Architects
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Why designers are embracing "dumb" homes. Plus: A stock market roundup Apr 11, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including some worrying inflation numbers, Home Depot’s latest acquisition, and a look at why designers are rejecting the smart home. Later, fund manager James O'Brien discusses earnings reports from RH, MillerKnoll and Wayfair.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

LINKS
Great Ocean Road Advisors
Business of Home

From Soho House to star designer: Vicky Charles's charmed career Apr 08, 2024

As a young woman, Vicky Charles chanced into a job as a waitress at what was then London’s newest, coolest private club, Soho House. As it grew and expanded internationally, Vicky grew with it, eventually becoming the company’s design director and helping to shape its signature look. In 2016 she left to open an independent firm with partner Julia Corden—the two have enjoyed sparkling success and earned a spot on the AD100.

On this episode of the podcast, Charles speaks with host Dennis Scully about what it was like to have George and Amal Clooney as her first residential clients, why slow periods can help strengthen a firm, and why the perfect apprenticeship for aspiring designers might just be working behind a bar.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Hartmann&Forbes

LINKS
Charles & Co
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: The Kardashian knockoff lawsuit, explained. Plus: The century's most iconic furniture Apr 04, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including an update on troubled design brands Burke Decor and Pirch, surprising renovation numbers from Houzz, and a list of the most iconic furniture from the last century. Later, lawyer David Adler joins the show to break down the Donald Judd Foundation's lawsuit against Kim Kardashian and her designers.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

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David Adler
Business of Home

Oliver Furth doesn't believe in 'no' Apr 01, 2024

A fourth generation Los Angeles native, Oliver Furth worked for some of the city’s biggest names—including Martyn Lawrence Bullard and Michael S. Smith—before going out on his own. Two decades into running his own firm, Oliver’s vibrant work has earned him a spot on both Elle Decor’s A-List and the AD100. Now he’s releasing his debut book, Op! Optimistic Interiors, a celebration of his upbeat approach to design.

On this episode of the podcast, Furth speaks with host Dennis Scully about how writing a book helped him define his style, why he’s not interested in product licensing, and why being a designer is like conducting a symphony.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Hartmann&Forbes

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Oliver Furth
Op! Optimistic Interiors
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: What happens when vendors have financial trouble? Plus: RH is betting on Waterworks Mar 28, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including the shutdown of Pirch, Burke Decor's recent issues, RH’s latest earnings call, and a look at how Paris stays Paris.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Chelsea House

LINKS
Business of Home

Why Tom Scheerer is winding down his firm Mar 25, 2024

An architect by training, Tom Scheerer’s career in design began almost on a whim, when he and Jeffrey Bilhuber met and agreed to collaborate on a room in a showhouse. Their partnership was short lived, but it led Scheerer into what became a sparkling career, with projects around the world, two books, and regular appearances on Elle Decor’s A List and the AD100.

Now, he’s winding down his firm, and, through a unique profit-sharing agreement, handing off more and more of the business to his employees. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about why it was an advantage to never apprentice for another designer, why he never got deeply into licensed product, and why the most important quality a client can have is a sense of humor.

This episode is sponsored by Spring Street by Pollack and Crypton

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Tom Scheerer
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: The stunning legal settlement that will reshape real estate. Plus: Why independent furniture stores are closing Mar 21, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including Williams Sonoma’s latest earnings report, rising homebuilder sentiment, and a look at why so many independent furniture stores are closing. Later, New York Times real estate reporter Debra Kamin joins the show to discuss her reporting on the stunning NAR settlement that will upend the way homes are bought and sold.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Chelsea House

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Debra Kamin
Business of Home

Big collaborations, close relationships: How Loloi has thrived in a fast-changing industry Mar 18, 2024

Since its founding in 2004, rug brand Loloi has expanded from scrappy upstart into a major industry player, with marquee collections by designers like Joanna Gaines, Amber Lewis and Jean Stoffer. Brothers Cyrus and Steven Loloi, who grew up in the business started by their father Amir, are now helping to lead it. On this episode of podcast, they chat with host Dennis Scully about the delicate balance of choosing the right licensing partners, their thoughts on what AI can and can’t do, and what it will take to engage the next generation of designers.

This episode is sponsored by Spring Street by Pollack and Crypton

LINKS
Loloi
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Timothy Corrigan ignites an industry conversation. Plus: Flawed furniture is in Mar 14, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and host Dennis Scully discuss the biggest news in the industry, including Design Holding's new Manhattan showroom, a good year for Arhaus, and the rise of intentionally flawed furniture. Later, designer Timothy Corrigan joins the show to talk about how a credit dispute in the pages of Architectural Digest brought a taboo topic into the open.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Chelsea House

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Timothy Corrigan
Business of Home

Veere Grenney: An outsider's eye for beauty Mar 11, 2024

Born in New Zealand, Veere Grenney made his way to England as a young man and stayed there—but being an immigrant and a little bit of an outsider has always informed his playful, eclectic approach. After working for Mary Fox Linton and at Colefax & Fowler, Grenney started his own firm—his work has since appeared in countless shelter publications and won a range of accolades, including a regular spot on the AD100.

On this episode of the podcast, Grenney speaks with host Dennis Scully about why a little bit of bad taste can be a good thing, the tricks he borrows from David Hicks, and why the most important skill a designer can have is being good with people.

This episode is sponsored by Spring Street by Pollack and Crypton

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Veere Grenney
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Want a more sustainable design business? Laura Fenton has ideas. Plus: Venus Williams' new AI interiors startup Mar 07, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to go over the biggest news in the industry, including a new AI startup from a superstar athlete, the shutdown of Renovation Angel, and a look at the latest microtrend sweeping TikTok. Later, sustainability columnist Laura Fenton discusses practical steps to a greener design firm.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Chelsea House

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Laura Fenton
Business of Home

Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler: The past, present and future of an English design institution Mar 04, 2024

Founded in the 1930s, Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler is a British institution, a revered design firm with a client list that includes royalty from around the world, celebrities and titans of industry. Today it’s part of a larger business group that includes the fabric brands Cowtan & Tout and Manual Canovas, while the firm itself operates as a kind of collective, with six individual designers running their own studios under a collective umbrella.

On this episode of the podcast, principals Emma Burns and Philip Hooper speak with host Dennis Scully about why the unique structure of the firm is a strength, why American clients are easier than British ones, and why the next generation of designers needs to step away from the computer.

This episode is sponsored by Pollack and Crypton

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Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Kit Kemp swore off doing New York hotels. Now she’s back with a classic. Plus: Trend lifecycles are speeding up Feb 29, 2024

BOH managing editor Haley Chouinardjoins host Dennis Scully to go over the biggest news in the industry, including the newest Queer Eye cast member, Houzz’s state of the industry report, and why renovations are starting to feel outdated faster than ever. Later, Founder and Creative Director of Firmdale Hotels and Kit Kemp Design Studio, Kit Kemp, discusses her latest project, the Warren Street Hotel.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi

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Firmdale Hotels

Kit Kemp
Business of Home

'It's hard to have scale and cachet at the same time,' says The Future Perfect's David Alhadeff Feb 26, 2024

In 2003, the arbiters of taste were obsessed with Europe—but David Alhadeff decided to open up a gallery for contemporary design in Brooklyn. It was a gamble, but it paid off, and over the past twenty years The Future Perfect has helped put American industrial designers on the map. In the process, Alhadeff has built a unique business model, eventually combining a gallery space with his own home in Los Angeles.

On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about finding ways to change within the constraints of a small business, how Los Angeles compares to New York as a market for design, and why you can’t have scale and cache at the same time.

This episode is sponsored by Minted

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The Future Perfect
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Havenly's Lee Mayer on why she acquired The Citizenry. Plus: The "Wild West" of online photo theft Feb 22, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to go over the biggest news in the industry, including the launch of Fred Segal Home, a look at the “Wild West” of online photo theft, and why “unexpected red” has gone viral on social media. Later, Havenly CEO Lee Mayer discusses her purchase of The Citizenry and her plans to build a millennial-focused house of brands.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi

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Havenly
The Citizenry
Business of Home

Suchi Reddy is exploring the science behind why good design is good for us Feb 19, 2024

Architect, designer and artist Suchi Reddy is devoted to the study of neuroaesthetics—the science of how art and design affects the brain and body. Through collaborative installations with Google and Johns Hopkins University, she’s brought real data to the big questions about whether good design is good for our wellbeing. On this episode of the podcast, Reddy speaks with host Dennis Scully about why “style” is the wrong way to think about what works about a room, how AI will help eliminate mediocrity, and why our homes make us who we are.

This episode is sponsored by Minted

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Suchi Reddy
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Pooky is riding the rechargeable lighting wave. Plus: Will Apple's new headset matter for designers? Feb 15, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to go over the biggest news in the industry, including a huge shift in global manufacturing, a look at whether Apple’s new headset will matter for designers, and why rumors about the death of drapery have been greatly exaggerated. Later, Pooky Lighting founder Rohan Blacker shares his winding entrepreneurship journey, and explains the sudden rise of rechargeable lamps.
This episode is sponsored by Loloi
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Pooky
Business of Home

Marmol Radziner became builders and it made them better architects Feb 12, 2024

Ron Radziner and his partner Leo Marmol started in the late 1980s as young residential architects with a somewhat novel approach: They would not only design homes, but build them too. Thirty years later, Marmol Radziner has 200 employees, and Ron and Leo are both in the Interior Design Hall of Fame. But they still do as much in-house as possible, from design and construction to producing a line of furniture and even jewelry.

On this episode of the podcast, Radziner speaks with host Dennis Scully about the Richard Neutra house that jump-started their career, working with fashion designer Tom Ford, and the risks and rewards of doing every element of a project yourself.

This episode is sponsored by Minted.

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Marmol Radziner
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Finally, some good news from the housing market. Plus: AI dream homes Feb 08, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to go over the biggest news in the industry, including a greenwashing ban, AI dream homes, and a look at the evolution of the sales rep. Later, real estate consultant Jonathan Miller shares some good news about the housing market.
This episode is sponsored by Loloi
LINKS
Miller Samuels
Business of Home

Zak+Fox's Zak Profera: 'You have to struggle a little bit' Feb 05, 2024

The last time Zak Profera was on the podcast, he told the story of building a beloved brand, step by meticulous step. Two years later, after grappling with personal loss, he’s back with an ambitious new collection, Harvest. On this episode of the podcast, Profera speaks with host Dennis Scully about using fiction and film to tell the story of his work, why finding a manufacturing partner is like dating, and why a little bit of struggle is a healthy part of the creative process.

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Zak+Fox
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: The Winter Show and the rise of young collectors. Plus: Does the formal dining room have a future? Feb 01, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to go over the biggest news in the industry, including a ban on renovations in Beverly Hills, how luxury brands are reaching the one percent, and the fate of the formal dining room. Later, Helen Allen, executive director of The Winter Show, discusses the rise of young collectors.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi
LINKS
The Winter Show
Business of Home

Twenty2 has made digital printing a craft Jan 29, 2024

Kyra and Robertson Hartnett started Twenty2 by making their own product, a line of modernist wallpaper they debuted at ICFF in 2003. But over time, they began making things for others. Now, out of a fast-expanding facility in Connecticut, the studio digitally prints wallpaper and textiles for a roster of designers and brands, including Rebecca Atwood, Eskayel, St. Frank, Rule of Three and many more.

On this episode of the podcast, the Hartnetts speak with host Dennis Scully about going all in on their own business, how digital printing has changed the industry, and why, no matter what the state of the economy, if the work is good, the demand will be there.
This episode is sponsored by Daniel House Club

LINKS
Twenty2
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: What happened in Paris? Plus: Why sofa quality has declined Jan 25, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to go over the biggest news in the industry, including deep cuts at Wayfair, Red Sea shipping delays, and a look at why furniture quality seems to be getting worse. Later, BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and market editor Caroline Biggs break down the highlights from Paris Déco Off and Maison&Objet.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi
LINKS
Paris Déco Off
Maison&Objet
Business of Home

The Invisible Collection wants to be the opposite of Amazon Jan 22, 2024

In 2016, Lily Froehlicher and her partners conceived of an e-commerce business that would bring the work of French designers and craftspeople to the wider world. The Invisible Collection was born, and quickly took off—the site has a fast-growing international clientele, with showrooms in London, Paris, New York and soon, Los Angeles.

On this episode of the podcast, Froehlicher speaks with host Dennis Scully about the differences between French, British and American luxury; why The Invisible Collection doesn’t advertise on social media anymore; and how they’ve made the slow pace and perfectly imperfect nature of craft work for a high-speed modern audience.

This episode is sponsored by Daniel House Club

LINKS
The Invisible Collection
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Jill Cohen has big plans for Luxe. Plus: Heimtextil highlights and more Jan 18, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to go over the biggest news in the industry, including a new acquisition for Kravet, a B Corp boom, and why TikTok is obsessed with “bookshelf wealth.” Later, BOH managing editor Haley Chouinard brings back highlights from Heimtextil, and Luxe’s new editor in chief Jill Cohen shares her plans for the brand.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs

LINKS
Jill Cohen Associates
Luxe Interiors + Design
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

‘Boucle is here to stay’ says Rosemary Hallgarten Jan 15, 2024

For years, Rosemary Hallgarten juggled a busy career in advertising with creative pursuits on the side. Then in the 1990s, a commission for a designer kick-started a fledgling rug business, and she was off to the races. Over two decades, Hallgarten has built a brand around neutral colors and sumptuous textures, bringing shearling rugs and alpaca boucle to a growing fan base.

On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about why she held on to her day job for five years, the rise of knockoffs and the challenges of moving from the chaos of creativity to the order of a streamlined business.

This episode is sponsored by Daniel House Club

LINKS
Rosemary Hallgarten
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Meet the outlet that bought 250 trucks full of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams furniture. Plus: Change at the top for Luxe Jan 11, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to go over the biggest news in the industry, including change at the top for Luxe Interiors + Design, why starter homes are becoming forever homes, and a look at the latest industry comings and goings. Later, the leadership team behind The Dump discusses their acquisition of the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams inventory.

This episode was sponsored by Loloi Rugs

LINKS
The Dump
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Surya CEO Satya Tiwari on why he bought Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Jan 08, 2024

Started in 1976, for decades Surya was a modest rug manufacturer. But when Satya Tiwari—the son of the company’s founder—joined the business in the early 2000s, he began pushing it to grow, and over the years it has become a large-scale industry player, covering multiple categories and doing hundreds of millions in revenue. Last year, Tiwari went on an acquisition spree, culminating in the purchase of the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams brand.

On this episode of The Business of Home Podcast, Tiwari chats with host Dennis Scully about his plans for Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, why private equity isn’t a good fit for the home industry, and why opportunity is greatest when times are tough.

This episode is sponsored by Daniel House Club

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Surya
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Alexa Hampton’s New Year’s resolutions. Plus: A leaked Wayfair memo sparks controversy Jan 04, 2024

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the industry, including a controversial leaked memo from Wayfair’s CEO, the breakup of a successful design duo, and a look at what trend forecasters are saying about 2024. Later, Alexa Hampton shares her new book and her resolutions for 2024.

This episode was sponsored by Loloi Rugs

LINKS

Alexa Hampton
Design, Style & Influence
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Looking back on the biggest stories of 2023 Dec 21, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss a big turnaround in interest rates, Australia’s ban on engineered stone, and a new study on Gen Z’s love of dupes. Later, BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and retail columnist Warren Shoulberg join the show to recap an eventful year.
LINKS
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How Brooks Morrison made The Design Social a must-go event Dec 18, 2023

As a sales rep, Brooks Morrison kept encountering two problems. Small, independent textile brands were getting lost in massive multiline showrooms—and designers in smaller cities often had to drive hours to visit the nearest design center. In 2019, Morrison launched The Design Social, a traveling pop-up where the creative talents behind indie brands could showcase their work directly for designers. In four years, she’s brought the show all across the country, from Darien Connecticut to Newport Beach, California.

On this episode of the podcast, Morrison speaks with host Dennis Scully about the power of personal connection in a saturated market, why the show is built around creatives, not sales reps, and how she searches the country for overlooked “pockets of gold.”

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and BDDW

LINKS
The Design Social
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Stark Carpet CEO Chad Stark on selling to consumers while sticking with designers. Plus: This year's AD100 is unveiled Dec 14, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the industry, including this year’s AD100, a brutal quarter for RH, and change at the top for Food52. Later, Chad Stark discusses why his company's latest moves around pricing transparency don't mean Stark Carpet is going all in on DTC.

LINKS
Stark Carpet
Ashley Stark Home
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Ethan Allen CEO Farooq Kathwari finds strength in focus Dec 11, 2023

The last time Ethan Allen CEO Farooq Kathwari was on the podcast, he told the incredible story of his journey from a boyhood in Kashmir and Pakistan to the top of one of the furniture industry’s most venerable companies. This time he sticks to the present day, discussing Ethan Allen’s post-pandemic challenges and opportunities.

Kathwari tells host Dennis Scully why smaller is better for his company’s showrooms, the five things he asks all his managers to track, and why the worst mistake a business can make is try to be all things to all people.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and BDDW

LINKS
Ethan Allen
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Heidi Caillier's next phase. Plus: Airbnb's mysterious AI investment and more Dec 07, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the industry, including a big AI investment from Airbnb, a study on the state of luxury, and a surprising new board member for House of Hackney. Later, designer Heidi Caillier joins the show to talk about her debut book, Memories of Home.

LINKS
Heidi Caillier
Memories of Home
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Lulu Lytle of Soane: 'Luxury without transparency isn't luxury' Dec 04, 2023

In the late 1990s, driven by a love of craft, Soane founder Lulu Lytle took a road trip throughout Britain to meet artisans and makers. For the past 25 years she’s built a business around them, creating a collection of furniture, lighting and fabric all made in the UK (and beloved by interior designers around the world). On this episode of the podcast, Lytle speaks with host Dennis Scully about opening a new showroom in New York, why it’s so difficult to make quality furniture at an affordable price, and why luxury without transparency isn’t luxury at all.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and BDDW

LINKS
Soane
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Amber Lewis hits her stride. Plus: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams inventory heads to The Dump Nov 30, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the industry, including a new CEO for Design Manager, a pair of RH gallery openings, and an update on the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams story. Later, designer Amber Lewis joins the show to talk about her new book, Call It Home.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

LINKS
Amber Lewis
Call It Home
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The siblings behind Dedar want to bring the energy of fashion to fabric Nov 27, 2023

Raffaele and Caterina Fabrizio are the brother and sister team behind Italian fabric brand Dedar. Founded in 1976 by their parents, the Fabrizios have taken the company into the next generation, establishing it in Europe as a vibrant presence bringing the energy of fashion to fabric. On this episode of the podcast, they tell host Dennis Scully about their collaboration with Hermes, tackling the American market, and why Dedar is all about the blend of elegance and courage.

This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture and Hooker Furniture

LINKS
Dedar
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Decorating may be dying, but David Netto is thriving Nov 20, 2023

The last time interior designer David Netto was on the Business of Home Podcast, he spoke about the changing state of design media, and the importance of books. Now he’s got a book of his own to discuss, a monograph covering twenty projects from the full scope of a celebrated career.

On this episode of the show, he chats with host Dennis Scully about why it’s better to have no projects at all than too many, ignoring the beige-ification of the contemporary aesthetic, and why the young designers at his firm give him hope for the future.

This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture and Hooker Furniture

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David Netto
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Why is Ashley Whittaker leaving design behind? Plus: The Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams brand is acquired Nov 16, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the industry, including a new twist in the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams saga, a 1stdibs trend report, and a look at what the latest inflation numbers mean for designers. Later designer Ashley Whittaker explains why she's pivoting to a new career.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

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Ashley Whittaker
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Robert Stilin means business Nov 13, 2023

The son of an entrepreneur, Robert Stilin was raised to go into business—as a boy, he read the Wall Street Journal and dreamed of a career in private equity. But when he moved to Palm Beach as a young man, he found himself drawn instead to design, opening a shop and taking on local projects. Decades later, Robert is one of the industry’s most celebrated talents, regularly featuring on Elle Decor’s A-List and the AD100.

On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about how he gets around the problem of clients not wanting their homes photographed, how he made art a crucial part of his business, and why a small firm is perfect for high-end projects.

This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture and Hooker Furniture

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Robert Stilin
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Does subscription furniture have a future? Plus: The Dallas Kips Bay Decorator Show House and more Nov 09, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including an uptick in luxury home sales, a look at the Dallas Kips Bay Decorator Show House, and an update on the legal battle between artists and AI. Later, Vesta founder Julian Buckner explains why he thinks subscription furniture has a future.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

LINKS
Vesta
Feather
Fernish
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Beata Heuman's secret ingredient is mischief Nov 06, 2023

Raised on a small farm in her native Sweden, Beata Heuman moved to London in her twenties and learned the trade working for celebrity designer Nicky Haslam. Once out on her own, she quickly became known for exuberant colors and a playful, nostalgic approach to design. After the product side of Beata’s business took off, her husband John Finlay left behind a corporate law career to help run the brand.

On this episode of the podcast, the two of them speak to host Dennis Scully about opening up a showroom in a historic London building, working together as a married couple, and why mischief is the secret ingredient in Beata’s work.

This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture and Hooker Furniture

LINKS
Beata Heuman
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: The mysteries of white paint, a landmark real estate lawsuit and more Nov 02, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including a major shakeup in the real estate industry, Pinterest's great quarter, and the decline of the home office. Later, journalist Chris Moody shares takeaways from his deep dive into the world of white paint.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Annie Selke

LINKS
Chris Moody
'Inside The Complex World of White Paint'
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Furniture is nothing like fashion, says Room & Board founder John Gabbert Oct 30, 2023

John Gabbert grew up in his father’s business—Gabberts, a popular furniture chain in the midwest—but in the late 1970s he split off on his own. The result was Room & Board, a furniture brand focused on modern design; American manufacturing, and a slow-and-steady pace of growth that has paid off over the decades.

On this episode of the podcast, Gabbert speaks with host Dennis Scully about the business book that became his bible, why he refuses to take private equity money and how he got away from the industry’s obsession with newness.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Hector Finch.

LINKS
Room & Board
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: High Point puts an interior designer in the top spot. Plus: A design media shakeup and more Oct 26, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry,including a design media shake-up, an update on the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams bankruptcy, and a look at Gwenyth Paltrow’s new experiment in Hospitality. Later, Christi Barbour, the High Point Market Authority's first interior designer board chair, shares her thoughts on an evolving market.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands and Design Manager

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Christi Barbour
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Cara Woodhouse on the many paths to success in the design industry Oct 23, 2023

Known for her striking use of materials and bold style, interior designer Cara Woodhouse is proof that there’s no single path to success in the design industry—she’s overseen large firms and small firms, developed product lines, dabbled in e-commerce, real estate development and even created a jewelry line.

On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about how building an instagram following changed her aesthetic, finding the right size for her firm, and why, whenever there’s a rule, she wants to break it.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Hector Finch.

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Cara Woodhouse
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: High Point highlights, Z Gallerie goes bankrupt and more Oct 19, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including Z Gallerie's bankruptcy, Walmart's AI design experiment, and a look at the latest housing numbers. Later, BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and retail columnist Warren Shoulberg recap High Point Market.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands and Design Manager

LINKS
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Anthony Baratta scaled his firm way back. He's never been happier Oct 16, 2023

As one half of the acclaimed duo Diamond Baratta, Anthony Baratta spent his early career at the top of the design world. The firm’s joyously colorful spin on classic American design won it constant press coverage and countless accolades. But after the departure and tragic passing of his partner William Diamond, Baratta had to reinvent the firm, and himself.

On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about going through difficult times and coming out on the other side, why he doesn’t worry about getting published anymore, and why scaling his firm back has made him happier than ever.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Hector Finch.

LINKS
Anthony Baratta
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: These two entrepreneurs are shaking up the showroom model. Plus: An iconic wallpaper brand changes hands and more Oct 12, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including some new developments with the Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams bankruptcy case, the acquisition of an iconic wallpaper brand, and a look at what’s selling in the world of vintage furniture. Later, BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen discusses the magazine's fall technology issue, and entrepreneurs Anderson Somerselle and Nancy Evars join the show to share their thoughts on shaking up the multiline showroom model.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands and Design Manager

LINKS
Somerselle
The Evars Collective
BOH's Fall Technology Issue
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How a designer and a Navy pilot built one of the industry’s buzziest showrooms Oct 09, 2023

Hunter and Meredith Ellis are the husband-and-wife team behind the James network of showrooms. The Ellises make for an intriguing pair: Before starting James, Meredith was a designer—Hunter was a news anchor and navy pilot. Together they’ve created a fast-growing, much-admired showroom business with locations in Austin, Dallas, Houston and soon, New York.

On this episode of the podcast, the Ellises speak with host Dennis Scully about what the design industry can learn from the military, the pros and cons of digitally printed fabric, and why the two of them want to bring a touch of Texas hospitality to the Big Apple.

This episode was sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Hector Finch.

LINKS
James
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: T Magazine design editor Tom Delavan can afford to be picky. Plus: Banana Republic is taking home seriously and more Oct 05, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including Shopify and Faire teaming up, an illness afflicting quartz fabricators, and Banana Republic's big push into home. Later, T Magazine design editor Tom Delavan joins the show and shares his thoughts on ivory boucle, quiet luxury, and what it takes for a project to catch his eye.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands

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Tom Delavan
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How do you build a design firm that lasts 100 years? Ask McMillen Oct 02, 2023

There are long-lived design firms, and then there’s McMillen: The venerable New York institution is currently celebrating its 99th year in business. Along the way McMillen has served as a proving ground for designers like Mark Hampton and Albert Hadley, and completed projects for everyone from Babe Paley to Microsoft’s Paul Allen.

McMillen is not a family firm, but president Ann Pyne and her daughter Elizabeth Pyne both grew up in the business and are steeped in its traditions and lore. On this episode of the podcast they speak with host Dennis Scully about why interior design is more about people than product, why they’re not worried about the rise of artificial intelligence, and what it takes for a design business to last a century.

This episode was sponsored by Lillian August and Hartmann & Forbes.

LINKS
McMillen
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: What's behind RH's stock market slide? Plus: Kelly Wearstler tries AI and more Sep 28, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including some new developments at High Point Market, what neuroscience can tell us about it, and why Kelly Wearstler is experimenting with AI. Later, furniture industry investor James O'Brien, the portfolio manager at Great Ocean Road Advisors, joins the show to share his thoughts on RH's recent slide, and what the stock market can tell us about the home business.

This episode is sponsored by Chelsea House

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Great Ocean Road Advisors
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Sanderson's CEO is bringing the secrets of the LVMH playbook to home Sep 25, 2023

Lisa Montague is the CEO of Sanderson, the design group that includes Zoffany, Morris and Co, and Clark and Clark, but her own background is not in home but in luxury fashion. Montague spent her early career at Mulberry and then at the LVMH-owned Spanish brand Loewe, acquiring a reputation as a specialist in breathing new life into heritage companies.

On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about the secrets of the LVMH playbook, a surprising collaboration with Disney, and why the slow pace of the home industry can sometimes be a good thing.

This episode was sponsored by Lillian August and Hartmann & Forbes.

LINKS
Sanderson
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Do virtual showhouses have a future? Plus: The end of ivory boucle and more Sep 21, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including another furniture acquisition, some surprising housing numbers, and why ivory boucle may finally be on its way out. Later, Laiza Cors of influencer marketing agency Embello shares why she thinks virtual showhouses have a future.

This episode is sponsored by Chelsea House

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Embello
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The adventures of Miles Redd Sep 18, 2023

After studying at Parsons and at NYU, the worlds of fashion and filmmaking first beckoned Miles Redd, but it wasn’t until he went to work for the legendary John Rosselli and Bunny Williams, that he knew he had found his place. His glamorous, vibrant interiors have earned him national press, a spot on the AD100, and collections with Schumacher and Ballard Design. A multitalented creative, Redd also had a stint as creative director for Oscar de La Renta home and is the author of The Big Book of Chic.

On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about rebranding his firm to include his partner David Kaihoi, the right way to leave a design firm, and how he’s ridden the economic ups and downs of two decades in business.

This episode was sponsored by Lillian August and Hartmann & Forbes.

LINKS
Miles Redd
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: How furniture got so flimsy, looking back on Maison&Objet and more Sep 14, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including a recap of the latest RH earnings call, the dark side of decluttering and takeaways from this fall’s Maison & Objet. Later, Washington Post reporter Rachel Kurzius discusses the slow decline of furniture quality.

This episode is sponsored by Chelsea House

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Rachel Kurzius
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The true story of Mario Buatta Sep 11, 2023

Design historian Emily Evans Eerdmans is the author of a new book: Mario Buatta, Anatomy of a Decorator. In the later years of Buatta’s life, Emily was something of a protege to the legendary “prince of chintz.” Since his passing in 2018, she’s devoted herself to his legacy, organizing a blockbuster auction of Buatta’s estate and penning two books on his life and work. I spoke with Emily about how Buatta was able to find his way from a humble beginning in Staten Island to the upper echelons of Manhattan society, the rise and fall of English country style, and what young designers can learn from the industry’s last great eccentric.

This episode was sponsored by Lillian August and Hartmann & Forbes.

LINKS
Mario Buatta, Anatomy of a Decorator
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Understanding the furniture industry turmoil, Modsy is back and more Sep 07, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including the return of Modsy, an update on Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams and a deep dive into why millennials are looking to the past for design inspiration. Later, M&A experts Tim and Bo Stump dissect a chaotic time in the furniture industry.

This episode is sponsored by Chelsea House

LINKS
Stump & Company
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Bonus Episode: Mitchell Gold on the future of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Sep 01, 2023

Last weekend, the abrupt shutdown of retailer Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams shocked the industry. On a special episode of the podcast, co-founder and former CEO Mitchell Gold shares a candid look at what happened and his efforts to give the company another chance.

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Mitchell Gold
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams shuts down, what Hollywood gets wrong about design and more Aug 31, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including the sudden closure of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, the return of RH’s infamous catalog and a look at how Hollywood portrays interior designers.

LINKS
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Disc Interiors takes a low key approach to growth. It's working Aug 28, 2023

DISC Interiors began as something of a professional blind date, when David John Dick and Krista Schrock joined forces for a modest project. The two have stuck it out and built a firm at the forefront of Los Angeles’ rising generation of designers. On this episode of the podcast, Dick and Schrock speak with host Dennis Scully about their new furniture showroom, why they don’t fear AI, and why embracing a low-key, step-by-step approach has helped them build a lasting business.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Thibaut

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DISC Interiors
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Highlights from the summer trade shows, design drama on TikTok and more Aug 24, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including Ikea’s latest moves, why homes are shrinking and what the latest TikTok drama says about online design culture. Later, retail columnist Warren Shoulberg shares his takeaways from the summer’s biggest trade shows.

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Warren Shoulberg
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Sara Story loves a challenge Aug 21, 2023

A protege of Victoria Hagan, Sara Story opened up her own firm in 2003 and has enjoyed a sparkling career. Her work, which often draws on fine art for inspiration, has won awards and graced magazine covers for two decades. On this episode of the show, Story speaks with host Dennis Scully about her first book, The Art of Home, the perfect length for a client meeting, and why in her spare time, pushing herself to run marathons and climb mountains helps keep her focused.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Thibaut

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Sara Story
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Why Summer Thornton is getting into the hospitality business, the dorm room boom and more Aug 17, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including why Amazon is quitting the furniture business, AI-generated building materials, and what dorm room shopping means for retailers—and designers. Later, designer Summer Thornton discusses the debut of Casa Rosada, her new hospitality project in Mexico.

LINKS
Summer Thornton
Casa Rosada
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Why Benjamin Johnston aims for excellence, not perfection Aug 14, 2023

Interior designer Benjamin Johnston began his career in architecture working in Japan for the renowned firm of Cesar Pelli. But he soon found himself drawn to interior design, and opened up his own shop in his home state of Texas. In a relatively young career, Ben has won wide recognition for his work—his projects have graced magazine covers, and he’s landed product deals with Chaddock and S. Harris.

On this episode of the show, Johnston discusses the problem of luxury brands not offering luxury service, learning to talk money with clients, and why he strives for excellence, not perfection.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Thibaut

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Benjamin Johnston
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Jake Arnold is having a moment, a new award for up-and-coming designers and more Aug 10, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including including the sudden closure of a North Carolina manufacturer, a new award for up-and-coming designers, and a look at how microtrends are changing the design industry. Later, designer Jake Arnold discusses the inspiration behind his new book Redefining Comfort.

LINKS
Jake Arnold
Redefining Comfort
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The state of the home industry with Alex Shuford of Rock House Farm Aug 07, 2023

The last time Alex Shuford—CEO of Rock House Farm, the family of brands that includes Century, Hickory Chair and Highland House—was on the podcast, it was 2021, and the industry was riding high on the home boom while grappling with out-of-control lead times. Now, the situation is reversed: Lead times are far better, but demand has cooled.

On this episode of the show, Shuford gives a comprehensive look at the state of the home industry. He speaks with host Dennis Scully about the shifting balance of power between retailers and designers, leadership lessons from the pandemic, and why, despite short-term turbulence, the future is bright.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Thibaut

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Rock House Farm
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: How modern farmhouse style took over the world, lights out for incandescent bulbs and more Aug 03, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including lights out for incandescent bulbs, the collapse of a major trucking business, and a look at what’s going on with Florida real estate. Later, New York Times real estate reporter Ronda Kaysen discusses the rise of modern farmhouse style.

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Ronda Kaysen
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Elizabeth Graziolo: 'What your team really wants is more of you' Jul 31, 2023

Born in Haiti and raised in a strict home where education was the focus, Liz emigrated to the United States as a young girl. After graduating from the prestigious Cooper Union, Liz ultimately became a partner at Peter Pennoyer Architects, where she would go on to hone her craft for nearly 20 years.

Ready for a change, Liz opened Yellow House Architects in February 2020, just as COVID-19 was about to shut down the world.

On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about hiring during the pandemic, the pressures that can come from winning early acclaim, and the realization that when you are running your own firm, there’s never enough of you to go around.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Daniel House Club

LINKS
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Professor Annetta Grant on how media outlets like HGTV impact renovations Jul 27, 2023

BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including how industry brands are targeting Gen Z, the environmental consequences of home demolitions, and a look at our summer print issue. Later, professor Annetta Grant discusses her research on how media outlets like HGTV impact renovations.

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Annetta Grant
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Jonsara Ruth: "Designers have a huge role to play" Jul 24, 2023

Jonsara’s career took an unexpected turn following a business trip to China. There to oversee the production of a new furniture collection, she witnessed firsthand the environmental impact of the manufacturing process and it changed forever her outlook on how products are made. Today through her work at the Healthy Materials Lab, she hopes to steer designers and the industry in the direction of making choices that are better for people’s health and the environment. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about the experiences that led to her current pursuit, what questions the industry can begin to ask about materials and ingredients, and the transformational role designers can play in changing the world.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Daniel House Club

LINKS
Healthy Material Lab
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Felix Burrichter on the evolution of the Barbie Dreamhouse, commercial real estate's refinancing problem Jul 20, 2023

BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including Crate & Barrel’s answer to rising renovation costs, Banana Republic’s effort to build a lifestyle brand, and a New York magazine cover story that paints a stark future for commercial real estate. Later, Pin-Up editorial director Felix Burrichter discusses Barbiecore.

LINKS
Pin-Up Magazine
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Ellie Cullman: 'Design is all psychology' Jul 17, 2023

Ellie Cullman got into the profession through a chance encounter involving an ill-fated screenplay, but once she got started in design, her career took off. Over nearly 40 years in business, her firm, Cullman & Kravis, has earned a regular spot on the AD 100 and Elle Decor’s A List, graced countless magazine covers, and earned numerous awards for its work.

On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about her approach to hiring and retaining a great staff, how she’s reacted to ups and downs in the economy, and why design, at its core, is all psychology.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Daniel House Club

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Cullman & Kravis
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: A real estate check-in with Jonathan Miller, why Gen Z loves dupes and more Jul 13, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including why designers are flocking to the new Threads app, an AI fabric generator and how Gen Z’s embrace of dupes is impacting the industry. Later, real estate consultant Jonathan Miller discusses the latest developments in the housing market.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands.

LINKS
Miller Samuel Real Estate Appraisers & Consultants
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Jean Stoffer: 'Focus on doing good work. The rest is a gift.' Jul 10, 2023

Jean Stoffer’s career has caught fire in recent years, with the launch of a cabinetry business, big licensing deals, a store, and a popular show on the Magnolia Network. But it was far from an overnight success: for decades Stoffer patiently honed her craft as a kitchen designer running a small firm in the suburbs of Chicago. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about the joys—and challenges—of working with family, the highs and lows of getting into retail, and why she sees finding success later in her career as a gift.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Daniel House Club

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Jean Stoffer
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: What’s next in fabric with The Textile Eye’s Saana Baker, runaway construction costs and more Jul 06, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including out-of-control construction costs, some big retail moves and a viral TikTok mocking celebrities and their pedigreed wood furniture. Later, The Textile Eye’s Saana Baker shares what’s next in fabric.

This episode is sponsored by Four Hands.

LINKS
The Textile Eye
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: The rise and fall of Bed Bath & Beyond, Athena Calderone's big move and more Jun 29, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including a surge in new home construction, Design Milk changing hands and why a white kitchen may hurt the value of a home. Later, BOH retail columnist Warren Shoulberg traces the rise and fall of Bed Bath & Beyond.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton.

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Warren Shoulberg
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Tim Butcher of Fromental on finding a niche and owning it Jun 26, 2023

Tim Butcher, founder and creative director of wallpaper company Fromental, runs a truly international operation: Based in England, he and partner Lizzy Deshayes work with a team of artists in China to produce intricate custom hand painted wallpaper at scale. Over the past two decades, the business has expanded to do business all over the world—including a new corporate showroom in New York opening this month. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about the complex cultural history of Chinoiserie, why the rise of digital printing is both a blessing and a curse, and how smaller brands can win by finding a niche and owning it.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Room & Board

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Fromental
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Michael Diaz Griffith on the next generation of antiques collectors, a look at industry greenwashing and more Jun 22, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus and managing editor Haley Chouinardjoin host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including the relaunch of Lonny, a Pride Month controversy, and a look at greenwashing. Later, the executive director of the Design Leadership Network, Michael Diaz Griffith, discusses his new book, The New Antiquarians.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton.

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Michael Diaz Griffith
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Architect? Interior Designer? Suzanne Lovell is both (and much more) Jun 19, 2023

Suzanne Lovell began her career as an architect at the iconic firm Skidmore Owings and Merrill, but she always felt drawn to residential design. After starting her own firm in 1985, Lovell went on to a sparkling career, making the AD100 list, publishing a book, starting a textile line, and earning recognition far and wide for interiors as varied as her own interests.

On this episode of the podcast, she chats with host Dennis Scully about why sustainability is such a complicated issue in the industry, how she pushes artisans to do their best work, and what her current pursuit of a PhD is teaching her about her own practice.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Room & Board

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Suzanne Lovell
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: NeoCon highlights with ThinkLab's Amanda Schneider, an industry giant rebrands and more Jun 15, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including a potential buyer for Bed Bath and Beyond, a roundup of the latest showroom openings and a look at how designers are catering to an aging population. Later, ThinkLab founder Amanda Schneider gives listeners a live recap from NeoCon.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton.

LINKS
ThinkLab
Design Nerds Anonymous
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence on a partnership two decades in the making Jun 12, 2023

Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence are the principals of Williams Lawrence—a firm that, until a few weeks ago, was known as Bunny Williams Interior Design. Lawrence, who started working with Williams as an intern, has risen through the ranks for two decades to become partner. On this episode of the podcast, she and Williams speak with host Dennis Scully about the lost art of patience in the design industry and their thoughts on Kips Bay, TikTok and AI.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Room & Board

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Williams Lawrence
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: RH England is unveiled, a London designer showhouse and more Jun 08, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including home insurers pulling out of California, the acquisition of cookware brand Great Jones, and RH’s British invasion. Later, the managing director of Chelsea Harbor, Claire German, discusses the new showhouse in London’s design center.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton.

LINKS
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Asad Syrkett wants Elle Decor's A-List to make a statement Jun 05, 2023

Almost three years into his tenure as editor in chief of Elle Decor, Asad Syrkett has just unveiled the magazine’s annual A-List of top designers. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about how he approaches who makes the cut, who doesn’t, and what role lists play in the age of social media. Other topics include Syrkett’s thoughts on AI, the rise of interior design TikTok, and why, when it comes to the really important issues, he wants Elle Decor to keep asking difficult questions.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Room & Board

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Asad Syrkett
Elle Decor
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Peloton founder John Foley on his new rug brand, designers are cashing in on vacation rentals and more Jun 01, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, including LVMH taking its employees to sustainability school, RH’s earnings call, and a new wave of designers getting into the vacation rental business. Later, Peloton CEO John Foley discusses his new direct-to-consumer rug brand, Ernesta.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton.

LINKS
Ernesta
Dennis Scully
Business of Home
Crypton

The Thursday Show: Shea McGee debuts a MasterClass, highlights from New York Design Week and more May 25, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, from a check in on New York Design Week to a blue sofa that went viral on TikTok. Later, designer Shea McGee joins the conversation to discuss her new MasterClass.

This episode is sponsored by Daniel House Club.

LINKS
Studio McGee
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

For Rita Konig, design is storytelling May 22, 2023

The daughter of legendary English decorator Nina Campell, Rita Konig grew up in the trade. After authoring a runaway hit book, Domestic Bliss, she struck out on her own, and has built a brilliantly multifaceted career as a writer, designer and streaming star on the online education platform Create Academy.

On this episode of the podcast, Konig talks about reaching an audience beyond her core clients, whether RH can succeed in England, and lessons the British and American design industries can learn from each other.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Loloi Rugs

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Rita Konig
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Checking in on the LA design scene with Harbinger's Joe Lucas, what really happened to Jean de Merry and more May 18, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, from Warren Buffet's breakup with RH stock to what really happened with Jean de Merry. Later, Harbinger's Joe Lucas breaks down the latest developments in LA's design scene.

This episode is sponsored by Daniel House Club.

LINKS
Joe Lucas
Harbinger
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

From janitor to buzzy designer: How Sean Anderson got his start May 15, 2023

Sean Anderson has come a long way to get to where he is: after growing up in a small town in Mississippi and dropping out of college, he spent a decade working as a bartender, electrician and janitor. After moving to Memphis and redesigning his partner’s home, people began to notice Anderson’s work—so did design magazines like Architectural Digest and Elle Decor, and today he’s one of the southeast’s buzziest young designers.

On this episode of the podcast, Anderson speaks with host Dennis Scully about the advantages of working with a remote staff, his experience with The Expert, and why, for young designers, comparing yourself to someone else is the worst thing you can do.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Loloi Rugs

LINKS
Sean Anderson
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Inside the Kips Bay Decorator Show House, the gray flooring debate rages on and more May 11, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, from a greenwashing lawsuit to the debate over gray flooring. Later, the podcast takes a trip to the 48th annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House.

This episode is sponsored by Daniel House Club.

LINKS
Kips Bay
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Lulu & Georgia founder Sara Sugarman still feels like an underdog May 08, 2023

Sara Sugarman grew up in the design industry—her father ran a rug showroom that had been started by his father in the 1950s. When Sugarman came onboard the family firm in the 2000s, she became intrigued by the rise of online shopping, so she started e-commerce platform Lulu & Georgia as a side project. It was an instant hit, and has since grown by leaps and bounds.

On this episode of the podcast, Sugarman speaks with host Dennis Scully about why she’s committed to keeping Lulu & Georgia online only, how starting a family made her a better CEO, and why, when it comes to the e-commerce revolution, we’re just getting started.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Loloi Rugs

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Lulu & Georgia
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Sophie Donelson wants to free the kitchen, the AI interior design gold rush and more May 04, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, from Tiffany's new headquarters to the AI interior design gold rush. Later, former House Beautiful editor in chief Sophie Donelson chats about her new book, Uncommon Kitchens.

This episode is sponsored by Daniel House Club.

LINKS
Sophie Donelson
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Thom Filicia has always followed his own path May 01, 2023

Thom Filicia rose to fame after his appearance on the breakout hit Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, but his career began in the rarified world of New York’s most prestigious design firms, with stints working for Parish-Hadley, Robert Metzger and Jeffrey Bilhuber. Though Filicia found success on TV, he never left the design world behind, and he’s continued to take on projects, build a growing empire of licensed product, and open a to-the-trade showroom, Sedgwick and Brattle.

In front of a live audience at High Point Spring Market, Filicia spoke with host Dennis Scully about his intuitive approach to business, taking design beyond the 1%, and why he’s always relished ignoring convention and striking out on his own path.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Loloi Rugs

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Thom Filicia
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Looking back on High Point Market with BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen, the rise of "quiet luxury" and more Apr 27, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, from Bed Bath & Beyond's bankruptcy to the rise of "Quiet Luxury." Later, BOH editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen comes on the show to recap High Point Market's spring edition.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton

LINKS
Kaitlin Petersen
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Jeremiah Brent wants to shift the narrative on the design industry Apr 24, 2023

At 38, Jeremiah Brent is a young designer. But from building a bicoastal firm to an appearance on the AD100 list to product lines to TV shows with his husband Nate Berkus, he’s packed a great deal into his career already. On this episode of the podcast, Brent speaks to host Dennis Scully about learning to let go as he grew his firm, why personalization is the ultimate form of luxury, and why he wants to change the industry’s checkered reputation.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Four Hands

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Jeremiah Brent
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Live from Milan Design Week with Dan Rubinstein, MillerKnoll's PR crisis and more Apr 20, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, from MillerKnoll's PR crisis to some good signs from the stock market. Later, journalist and podcaster Dan Rubinstein joins the show live from Milan to share an update from Salone del Mobile.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton

LINKS
Dan Rubinstein
The Grand Tourist
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How Romo is conquering America, one market at a time Apr 17, 2023

Though Romo’s history goes back to 1902 in England, in the U.S. the company was relatively unknown for its first century in business. That changed when North American CEO Frederic Henry took the reins in 2005. He’s since transformed Romo into a fabric powerhouse here, with six house brands and a network of showrooms across the country.

On this episode of the podcast, Henry joins host Dennis Scully and shares how one key relationship changed everything for Romo, why multiline showrooms are key to the industry’s future and why he sees conquering the fabric industry like a game of Risk.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Four Hands

LINKS
Romo
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Schumacher's Nashville experiment, the scourge of damaged product and more Apr 13, 2023

BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, from a client rejection note that went viral to Ikea's new design service. Later, Schumacher CEO Timur Yumusaklar discusses the brand's new Nashville showroom/boutique hybrid.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton

LINKS
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Sarah Sherman Samuel puts passion over business, every time Apr 10, 2023

A multitalented creative, Sarah Sherman Samuel has occupied many roles in the industry: Interior designer, product designer, TV star, social media creator, and artist. Her collaborations with Lulu & Georgia, West Elm and Semihandmade are perennial hits, and her own line of furniture, SSS Atelier, just debuted at New York’s buzzy Colony gallery last month. On this episode of the podcast, Samuel speaks with host Dennis Scully about balancing design projects with product collaborations, the shifting winds of social media, and the complicated relationship between creative passion and commercial success.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Four Hands

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Sarah Sherman Samuel
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Thursday Show: Wunderkind stylist Colin King, RH's wild earnings call and more Apr 06, 2023

On the debut episode of The Thursday Show, BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus joins host Dennis Scully to discuss the biggest news in the design industry, from the return of the New York Kips Bay Decorator Show House to RH’s wild earnings call. Later, wunderkind stylist Colin King talks about working with Athena Calderone and Roman & Williams, his new book Arranging Things, and whether he's over white boucle (spoiler alert: he is).

This episode is sponsored by Crypton

LINKS
Colin King
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Modern House publishes beautiful homes—then sells them Apr 03, 2023

Originally a design and architecture journalist, in 2005 Matt Gibberd and his childhood friend Albert Hill started building a site that not only profiled exceptional British homes, but sold them too. Part media platform and part real estate agency, The Modern House has become a truly unique business, and a thriving one, fielding 90 out of a London office and looking towards international expansion. On this episode of the podcast, Gibberd speaks with host Dennis Scully about the emotional power of houses, how English taste in design is changing, and why 3D renderings and virtual reality will never replace good old-fashioned photography.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Four Hands

LINKS
The Modern House
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The mother-daughter duo behind Sister Parish Design are putting "faith over fear" Mar 27, 2023

Sister Parish was one of the 20th century’s most iconic designers. Working for presidents, celebrities, socialites and titans of industry, she and her partner Albert Hadley crafted a uniquely American style, and their firm, the legendary Parish-Hadley, was a proving ground for a generation of future stars, from Bunny Williams and David Kleinberg to Thomas Jayne and David Easton. Now Parish’s legacy is being carried on into the 21st century as a fabric and wallpaper brand run by her granddaughter Susan Crater and great granddaughter Eliza Harris. On this episode of the podcast, they chat with host Dennis Scully about why Sister Parish was an entrepreneur ahead of her time, why they’re embracing both consumers and designers alike, and putting faith over fear as the industry enters a new era.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Four Hands

LINKS
Sister Parish Design
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How the duo behind Nickey Kehoe built a modern, multifaceted design business Mar 20, 2023

After a chance meeting in Brooklyn brought them together, Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe forged a partnership that has survived a cross country move and two decades in business. Today, both the firm and the retail operation are thriving, and Nickey Kehoe is one of LA’s most celebrated young design brands. On this episode of the podcast, the duo talk about the secrets of a long-term partnership, finding the right amount of risk taking in their business, and why they want to be known for a feel, not a look.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Four Hands

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Nickey Kehoe
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Orior's approach has always been bold (and a little crazy) Mar 13, 2023

Irish furniture brand Orior has an improbable history: Started in the late 1970s by the husband-and-wife duo of Brian and Rosie McGuigan, the company began in a small town near Belfast in the midst of the Troubles. 40 years later, the furniture is still manufactured in the same town, but the McGuigan’s son Ciaran has brought the brand to New York and given it an edgy, cosmopolitan look. On this episode of the podcast, Rosie and Ciaran McGuigan tell host Dennis Scully about getting through tough times, leaning into their Irishness, and why being bold—and maybe a little crazy—has always been part of their company’s DNA.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Four Hands

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Orior
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Martyn Lawrence Bullard's intuition has never let him down Mar 06, 2023

Once an aspiring actor, Martyn Lawrence Bullard left his native England for Hollywood in the 1990s and quickly switched professions. He’s since become one of the industry’s most renowned designers, earning a regular spot on best-of lists, and working with a roster of celebrity clients, from Cher and Elton John to Machine Gun Kelly and Kylie Jenner. On this episode of the podcast, Bullard speaks with host Dennis Scully about why his superpower has always been intuition, why he’s not a fan of hourly billing, and why his strategy for licensing resembles a pyramid.
This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Four Hands

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Martyn Lawrence Bullard
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Why did Havenly buy Interior Define? Feb 27, 2023

Once a buzzy DTC furniture brand, last year Interior Define hit hard times and stopped paying its vendors, leaving thousands of customers in limbo with unfulfilled orders. At the 11th hour, Interior Define was acquired by an unlikely buyer: e-design platform Havenly. This week, Havenly’s CEO Lee Mayer returns to the podcast to talk about the acquisition.

Mayer speaks with host Dennis Scully about the strings attached to venture capital money, the complicated process of acquiring a brand in distress, and why, despite all of the drama, she thought Interior Define deserved another chance.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Daniel House Club

LINKS
Havenly
Interior Define
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Can Design Holding become the LVMH of home? Feb 20, 2023

You may not be familiar with the name “Design Holding,” but you know the brands in its portfolio, including Flos, B&B Italia, Louis Poulsen, Maxalto and many more. Through strategic acquisitions, the company has quietly become one of the most significant players in European luxury design—CEO Daniel Lalonde’s goal is to make Design Holding the LVMH of the home world. On this episode of the podcast, Lalonde speaks with host Dennis Scully about catering to both designers and consumers, his thoughts on trade pricing, and why there’s no shortcut to real luxury.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Daniel House Club

LINKS
Design Holding
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Expert starts its next chapter Feb 13, 2023

When Jake Arnold and Leo Seigal launched The Expert in 2021, the online design platform quickly took the industry by storm, connecting clients with elite designers for video consultations booked at hundreds of dollars an hour. Now the two are launching an e-commerce component to The Expert, and they’ve lined up a roster of premier brands like Pierre Frey, Apparatus and Rose Tarlow to help them do it. On this episode of the podcast they speak with host Dennis Scully about learning from the mistakes of other design industry startups, how they earned the trust of tech-skeptical trade-only vendors, and why home is such a difficult business to bring online.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Daniel House Club

LINKS
The Expert
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Mary McDonald embraces interior design's "never-ending learning curve" Feb 06, 2023

Interior designer Mary McDonald rose to prominence in the early aughts, as her work began to show up on the cover of shelter magazines. She’s stayed at the top of the field ever since—McDonald is a regular fixture on industry best-of lists, and her licensed collections with Schumacher and Chaddock are perennial hits. On this episode of the podcast she speaks with host Dennis Scully about the challenges facing young designers, the surprising reason she finds RH useful to her firm, and why interior design is a never-ending learning curve

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Daniel House Club

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Mary McDonald
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

At Pierre Frey, creativity comes before business Jan 30, 2023

Founded in 1935, Pierre Frey has become one of the most admired names in the world of high-end design, revered for its inventive, colorful creations. Patrick Frey, the son of the founder, has steered the company for decades as it has grown its presence all over the world. The firm now offers wallcoverings, carpets and furniture, having acquired the storied French rug maker Braquenie, and the fabric houses Boussac, LeManach and, just last year, Thorp. Frey has recently turned over control of the company to his sons, Pierre, Vincent, and Mattieu, while keeping the creative direction for himself.

On this week’s episode, taped in Paris in the thick of Déco Off, Frey spoke about why he’s optimistic that the home industry isn’t due for a slowdown, the important lessons he learned from his father, and why, in design, you have to put creativity first and business second.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Cozy Earth

LINKS
Pierre Frey
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Stephen Burks wants to open the doors of the design industry Jan 23, 2023

Industrial designer Stephen Burks career started in the early 2000s, when he became one of the first Americans to design furniture for European powerhouses like Roche Bobois, Moroso and Cappellini. Over the past two decades, he’s become one of industrial design’s most notable figures, creating collections for top brands and working with artisans around the world. On this episode of the podcast, Burks speaks with host Dennis Scully about the archaic way that industrial designers are paid, how bureaucracy shapes what kind of furniture gets made, and the persistent role race plays in the design industry.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Cozy Earth

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Stephen Burks
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Society Social wants to be every Grandmillennial's favorite brand Jan 16, 2023

In 2011, Roxy Owens left behind a marketing career to start a furniture and decor brand dedicated to playful traditionalism. Eight years later, the rise of “grandmillennial” style helped Society Social find its moment—Owens is coming off a year of record growth and an expansive new collaboration with The Colony hotel in Palm Beach. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks about the tension between being inspiring and being real on social media, how customer loyalty and a few smart pivots got her through COVID, and why prioritizing mental health is so important for business owners.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Cozy Earth

LINKS
Society Social
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Sophie Ashby wants to fight back against 'unidentifiable global chic' Jan 09, 2023

A member of the UK’s rising generation, Interior designer Sophie Ashby has achieved widespread attention for her colorful and eclectic projects. During COVID, she got even busier, opening Sister, a retail brand, and United in Design, a nonprofit that seeks to address the lack of diversity in the British design industry. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about why shipping furniture from the UK is cheaper than buying it in the US, whether RH can succeed in England, and why being brutally honest with clients is tough but worth it.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Cozy Earth

LINKS
Sophie Ashby
United in Design
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How Alexa Hampton learned the language of design [Rebroadcast] Jan 02, 2023

Alexa Hampton is, by any definition, a lifer in the trade. The daughter of celebrated designer Mark Hampton, she grew up in the business, and took over her father’s firm at the age of 27 after his untimely passing in 1998. Since then, Alexa has never slowed down, earning endless plaudits for her work, appearing regularly on industry best-of lists, authoring books and columns, and designing product for everyone from Kravet to Theodore Alexander to The Shade Store. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about how interior design is like a language, why her ideal firm size is 11 employees, and why it’s important to embrace—not turn away from—transparency and change.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi

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Alexa Hampton
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Looking back on an eventful year in the design industry Dec 19, 2022

This week on the podcast host Dennis Scully is joined by BOH’s editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and executive editor Fred Nicolaus. Together they look back on an eventful year in the design industry and ahead at what’s to come in the new year. Topics include the two companies that will determine the future of the industry, which tech innovations actually matter, and why, despite economic stormclouds, 2023 might be the year to fall back in love with design.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Las Vegas Market

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Kaitlin Petersen
Fred Nicolaus
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

American Leather's president knows why the home industry is slow to change Dec 12, 2022

Though American Leather may be an unfamiliar name in the design trade, the company is a powerhouse of furniture manufacturing, with 800 employees in a Texas facility that’s capable of churning out 500 pieces of furniture a day. President Veronica Schnitzius has risen through the ranks over two decades— as a young woman she left behind cartel violence in Colombia to come to the US, and found a role at the company, where she’s helped grow its business by leaps and bounds.

On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about why change comes slow to the furniture industry, the quest to design an attractive recliner, and why manufacturing is like a symphony.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Las Vegas Market

Next week, BOH editors will be on the show to recap an eventful year. If you have a question for the podcast, or a general query about the design industry, drop us a line at podcast@businessofhome.com.

LINKS
American Leather
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Amber Lewis sees the glass half full Dec 05, 2022

To the outside world, Amber Lewis is an interior designer. Behind the scenes, her business is a complex operation with more than 100 employees, tackling everything from retail shops, product design and e-commerce to books, licenses and residential projects. Lewis has grown it piece by piece over the past decade, bootstrapping the company, without outside funding.

On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Denis Scully about the challenge of turning creativity on and off at will, running a big business with a small business mindset, and how a serious medical diagnosis gave her a new perspective on work and life.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Las Vegas Market

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Amber Lewis
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Athena Calderone likes to prove the doubters wrong Nov 28, 2022

In 2011, Athena Calderone was a young mother in Brooklyn, looking to turn her considerable creative energy into a career. She started a blog, Eyeswoon, which has grown into a powerful platform for her various endeavors, including cooking, styling, and design. A decade in and fresh off a major collection for Crate and Barrel, Calderone is poised to kick off a new phase of growth: she’s in the midst of launching an e-commerce business and working on a residential development project—not to mention a few design jobs, partnerships with the likes of Tiffany and American Express, and attending to her nearly 1 million Instagram followers.

On this episode of the podcast, Calderone shares with host Dennis Scully why she loves to prove the doubters wrong, how embracing the chaos of creativity is healthy, and why doing more than one thing is both a blessing and a curse.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Las Vegas Market

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Athena Calderone
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Timothy Corrigan: "Designers are brands" Nov 21, 2022

A fixture in the top tier of the international design scene since the late nineties, Timothy Corrigan has been on every magazine’s honor roll, won numerous awards, and is the only American to be recognized by the French Heritage Society for his work. His clients have included everyone from Madonna and David Schwimmer to the Qatari royal family—every month Tim makes a loop around the world to attend to a truly global clientele. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about why he likes to hire employees with first careers outside of design, how work life balance is overrated, and how transparency is the only way forward for the industry.

This episode is sponsored by Amazon Ads and Universal Furniture

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Timothy Corrigan
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Lori Weitzner: "Ask for what you want, not what you think is possible" Nov 14, 2022

It’s difficult to sum up Lori Weitzner’s career quickly. From her partnership with fabric icon Jack Lenor Larsen to her longtime relationship with Samuel & Sons to her own wallcovering line to her jewelry to her book on color, she’s truly a multifaceted talent. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about learning to make the best of criticism and setbacks, her strong feelings on performance fabrics, and the future of shopping in the trade.

This episode is sponsored by Amazon Ads and Universal Furniture

LINKS
The Bruno Effect
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Is there room for another online antiques marketplace? Nov 07, 2022

As the likes of 1stdibs and Chairish have embraced a transactional, click-to-buy model for buying and selling online, Carmine Bruno is going in the other direction. His site, The Bruno Effect, offers something of an old-school system—it simply connects dealers with shoppers, then gets out of the way. On this episode of the podcast, Bruno speaks with host Dennis Scully about the growing pains of entrepreneurship, why he thinks there’s room at the top for another online marketplace, and how the internet has changed the culture of the antiques business.

This episode is sponsored by Amazon Ads and Universal Furniture

LINKS
The Bruno Effect
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

What happened at High Point Market? Oct 31, 2022

Twice a year, thousands of designers and retail buyers descend on a small town in North Carolina for High Point Market. A trade show, a conference, a networking event, and at night a party — High Point is the home industry’s South by Southwest. The fall edition just wrapped, and to recap the event, this week on the podcast Business of Home’s editor-in-chief Kaitlin Petersen and retail columnist Warren Shoulberg join host Dennis Scully on the show. They discuss their Market highlights, why the supply chain crisis isn’t a hot topic anymore, and how the industry is reacting to the possibility of a recession.

This episode is sponsored by Amazon Ads and Universal Furniture

LINKS
High Point Market
Kaitlin Petersen
Warren Shoulberg
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Beth Webb: "Too many designers discount themselves" Oct 24, 2022

After starting her career in the art world, a chance encounter at a dinner party got Beth Webb into design, and she hasn’t looked back. With projects in top magazines, a book through Rizzoli and a licensed collection with Arteriors, she’s one of the South’s most notable talents. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about how she’s navigating runaway costs and neverending lead times, why HR is the toughest part of the design business, and why landing big clients takes a “try everything” approach.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Modern Matter.

LINKS
Beth Webb
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Fortuny has had a wild century. Its owners are thinking about the next 100 years Oct 17, 2022

With a 19th century inventor, a countess, and a tragic car crash, the story of Italian fabric brand Fortuny feels like an epic novel. Here, Mickey and Maury Riad—the brothers behind the company’s modern incarnation—share the tale of Fortuny’s first century, as well as their strategy for the next 100 years.

They also tell host Dennis Scully what they learned from the shutdown of their startup Fuigo, how they’re thinking about a potential downturn, and why they believe—with the right technology—the design industry could do so much better.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Modern Matter.

LINKS
Fortuny
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Jenni Kayne's CEO says the brand is just getting started in home Oct 10, 2022

This week on the Business of Home Podcast, host Dennis Scully is joined by Julia Hunter, the CEO of the lifestyle brand Jenni Kayne. Founded in 2002 by Kayne herself, the company built its name in fashion, selling elevated basics in neutral tones. In 2017, Julia led the brand to explore textiles and eventually furniture—home is now a 20 million dollar business for Jenni Kayne.

On the show, Hunter speaks about why influencer marketing has so much untapped potential in home, the reason she and her team bought and renovated a house, and why sticking to beige has worked so well for Jenni Kayne.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Modern Matter.

LINKS
Jenni Kayne
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Gabriel Hendifar of Apparatus is embracing the fantasy Oct 03, 2022

Founded in 2012 as a lighting studio by then-partners Gabriel Hendifar and Jeremy Anderson, Apparatus has quickly become one the industry’s most talked-about brands. Dividing its collections into “acts” and staging elaborate events to celebrate their release, the company brings the spirit of immersive theater to the business of selling high-end lighting and furniture.

In this episode of the podcast, Hendifar, artistic director of Apparatus, speaks with host Dennis Scully about what it means to put narrative first in design, why Apparatus’s parties are as important as their products, and why emerging from a split with his original partner has given him the confidence to dream even bigger.

This episode is sponsored by Loloi Rugs and Modern Matter.

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Apparatus
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Suzanne Kasler on why the design business is better (and harder) than ever Sep 26, 2022

A midwestern native trained in commercial design, Suzanne Kasler made two big pivots in the mid-1990s: she moved to Atlanta, and began working exclusively on residential projects. Both changes turned out to be prescient: She quickly became one of the south’s biggest names, and is now a nationally recognized designer, regularly earning a spot on the AD100 and Elle Decor’s A-List—not to mention a robust portfolio of product licenses with everyone from Hickory Chair to Visual Comfort to Ballard Design.

On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about why business is about more than just productivity, why she focuses on pricing transparency with clients, and how the logistical challenges of the pandemic have changed her firm forever.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton

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Suzanne Kasler
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Billy Cotton tried to quit interior design. The universe had other ideas Sep 19, 2022

From creating a line of tableware to design projects that landed him on the AD100, Billy Cotton’s career has seen him apply his talents to a wide range of pursuits. Recently, after a short stint as Ralph Lauren Home’s creative director, he’s returned to the role that keeps calling him back —interior designer. On this episode of the show, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about why he likes to hire former waiters for his firm, how perception doesn’t always match reality in the design industry, and why he’s always counted on hard work to get him through difficult times.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton

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Billy Cotton
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Can you balance idealism and business? Connie Matisse is working on it Sep 05, 2022

Founded in 2010 by Connie Matisse, her husband Alex, and their friend John Vigeland, East Fork began as a small pottery studio. The company has since evolved into a thriving direct-to-consumer brand, with a bustling manufacturing operation in North Carolina. On this episode of podcast, host Dennis Scully speaks with Matisse about her complicated relationship with social media, the leadership lessons she’s learned at the helm of a fast-growing company, and why it’s so hard to find a balance between idealism and business.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton

To register for the Future of Home conference, click here.

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East Fork
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How two friends named John reshaped the design business Aug 29, 2022

John Edelman and John McPhee met by chance while working for Edelman’s brother, Sam in the footwear business—their partnership would ultimately reshape the design industry as we know it. Together, they exponentially grew the Edelman family leather business, which they ultimately sold to Knoll for $67 million. They then went on to pull off a dramatic rescue job on then-struggling retailer Design Within Reach, selling that business to Herman Miller for $154 million. Now, the pair have their own ventures: McPhee is the new CEO of chilewich, and Edelman has acquired cult favorite design brand Heller. But they continue to work together and share insights on a fast-changing market. On this episode of the show, they talk about how difficult times lead to the most growth, and why betting on great design always makes for good business.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton.

Click here to register for the Future of Home conference.

LINKS
Heller
Chilewich
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How did Harry Styles end up on the cover of Better Homes & Gardens? Aug 22, 2022

With stints at Domino, House and Garden, and Martha Stewart Living, Stephen Orr is a publishing veteran who has seen most sides of the shelter media industry. In his current role as editor in chief of Better Homes & Gardens, he’s working on a new challenge: to steer a 100-year-old publication that reaches not just the affluent and design-obsessed, but all Americans, across the country, from all walks of life. In this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about what “fancy creep” is and why wants to avoid it, why he put Harry Styles on his cover, and why, for a contemporary magazine, the print issue is only part of the equation.

This episode is sponsored by Modern Matter & High Point Market

Register for the Future of Home here.

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Better Homes & Gardens
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Zak+Fox founder Zak Profera on the power of details Aug 15, 2022

A decade ago, Zak Profera started his company—Zak & Fox—a decade ago as a small line of printed linens. Through great design, determination and a relentless obsession with details, he’s grown it into a thriving independent brand, beloved by designers and represented by the industry’s best showrooms. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about the pros and cons of design centers, why he stopped selling to consumers, and why, despite the rapid pace of technological disruption, he thinks the design industry won’t change as much as some might think.

This episode is sponsored by Modern Matter & High Point Market

Register for the Future of Home here.

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Zak+Fox
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Can rugs be innovative? Brian Erden thinks so Aug 08, 2022

After years in the textile industry, Brian Erden had a series of innovations: One was to weave metals like bronze and brass deeply into the background of rugs. The other was to establish his own operations overseas, rather than relying on a dubious network of middlemen. In six short years, Erden product has become a hit in the industry, represented by top showrooms and used by star designers. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about why some rugs cost $1,000 and others $10,000, why he’s a believer in multiline showrooms, and why the textile industry isn’t as innovative as it needs to be.

This episode is sponsored by Modern Matter and High Point Market.

To register for the Future of Home conference, click here.

Erden Rugs
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Shanan Campanaro of Eskayel on creating a cult favorite textile brand Aug 01, 2022

After a breakup left Shanan Campanaro in a near-empty apartment, she decided to tap into her fine art background and create some bespoke wallcoverings. The project led her to found the New York textile design studio Eskayel. On this episode of the podcast, Campanaro speaks with host Dennis Scully about how her unorthodox beginnings, coupled with her outsider perspective and experiences watching her parents run their own business led her to create a brand that was uniquely her own.

This episode is sponsored by Modern Matter and High Point Market.

Jonathan Miller on real estate as a spectator sport Jul 25, 2022

Jonathan Miller, the president and CEO of real estate appraisal and consulting firm Miller Samuel, discusses what rapidly rising interest rates will mean for the housing market.

This episode is sponsored by Serena & Lily and the Future of Home conference.

Thibaut is proudly old school Jul 18, 2022

Originally founded as a wallpaper maker in the 19th century, Thibaut has grown over the decades to become a powerhouse brand that now produces wallcoverings, fabric and even furniture. Despite a surge of growth in our digital era, Thibaut remains proudly old-school. While other brands explore virtual visualization tools and selling online, it produces sample books and relies on a network of showrooms and shops to distribute its products. On this episode of the podcast, chief marketing officer Stacy Senior Allan speaks with host Dennis Scully about how trade brands have to police internet sellers, why she believes in the power of print magazines, and what interior designers really need in a time of so much change.

This episode is sponsored by Serena & Lily and the Future of Home conference

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Thibaut
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Martin Brudnizki: "If you can design a restaurant, you can design anything" Jul 11, 2022

A truly cosmopolitan interior designer, Martin Brudnizki was raised in Sweden, started his business in London, and now operates an office in New York. If you’re familiar with the finest restaurants and hotels in the world, you know his work—he’s designed everything from the Beekman in New York to Annabel’s in London to Soho House in Miami. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about why he likes running a large firm, why he’s pushing to get employees back to the office, and why he always takes on 30 percent more work than he can handle.

This episode is sponsored by Serena & Lily and the Future of Home conference

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Martin Brudnizki
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Brigette Romanek on a rocket-fueled design career Jul 04, 2022

The daughter of singer Paulette McWilliams, interior designer Brigette Romanek was always destined for a creative path, but it was a winding one. She tried her hand at music and fashion before finally landing on interior design—ever since, she’s been on a tear, landing celebrity clients, a spot on the AD100 and a major collection with Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about the complications of working for celebrity clients, why she invested in buzzy startup The Expert, and why, economic stormclouds or no, she’s choosing to be optimistic about the future.

This episode is sponsored by Serena & Lily and the Future of Home conference

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Brigette Romanek
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Lindsey Adelman: "If it's fun, do it." Jun 27, 2022

Lighting designer Lindsey Adelman went out on her own in 2006 and scored a hit right away. Her debut piece, the now-iconic branching bubble chandelier, was a huge success—only the first of many. Sixteen years later, she’s built a thriving bicoastal business, with top designers and celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow among her enthusiastic patrons. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Denis Scully about whether she thinks the industry is due for a slowdown, how imagining Donatella Versace was her client led to a breakthrough, and why designers need to embrace instinct, play and humor in their work.

This episode is sponsored by Vaughan and Serena & Lily

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Lindsey Adelman
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Material Bank is just getting started, says Adam Sandow Jun 20, 2022

Launched in 2018, Material Bank offered designers a unique promise: Order samples from an online platform and they’d show up on your desk the next morning, all for free. In four short years founder Adam Sandow has rapidly grown the company to feature 500 brands serving nearly 100,000 users—and raised more than 325 million dollars in the process. On this episode of the show, Sandow speaks with host Dennis Scully about moving into the residential side of the industry, the challenge of making the platform affordable to smaller makers, and why he thinks design brands need to make themselves easier to work with if they’re going to survive.

This episode is sponsored by Vaughan and Serena & Lily

LINKS
Material Bank
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Leanne Ford: "Don't major in the minors" Jun 13, 2022

An interior designer, product designer, author and HGTV star, Leanne Ford has carved out her own unique path in the design industry. From the beginning, she’s taken an approach driven more by gut instinct than a grand vision—she’s always chosen to do what feels exciting and inspiring, come what may. On this episode of the podcast, Ford speaks with host Dennis Scully about the power of saying no, why she’ll stick with her signature white-on-white aesthetic even after it’s fallen out of style, and what it will take to get more people to embrace the experience of working with an interior designer.

This episode is sponsored by Vaughan and Serena & Lily

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Leanne Ford
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Sebastian Brauer wants Crate & Barrel to explore the Metaverse Jun 06, 2022

Sebastian Brauer, the senior vice president of product design at Crate & Barrel, was recently given a new task: helping Crate & Barrel explore the metaverse. On this episode of the podcast he talks with host Dennis Scully about his interest in all things crypto, NFTs and Web3, and what they might mean for the home industry. He also discusses creating product with designers in mind, the future of work, and why, metaverse or no, real-life retail is here to stay.

This episode is sponsored by Vaughan and Serena & Lily

LINKS
Crate & Barrel
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How Four Hands went from the fringes of the industry to the mainstream May 23, 2022

Founded in the late nineties, Four Hands was originally a modestly sized furniture importer. After starting to design its own pieces, the company grew and grew—now it’s a powerhouse of the industry, supplying furniture to designers and blue chip retailers, and bringing in over half a billion dollars in annual revenue. On this episode of the podcast, CEO Matthew Briggs speaks with host Dennis Scully about getting ahead of supply chain problems, what effect inflation will have on the design industry, and why business models based around exclusivity and protection are becoming obsolete.

This episode is sponsored by Room & Board and Modern Matter.

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Four Hands
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Emily Henderson is done chasing likes and follows May 16, 2022

Designer, stylist, blogger, influencer and author, Emily Henderson is the wearer of many hats. Her big break came after winning the fifth season of HGTV’s competition show, Design Star. Since then, she’s built a sizable following both on social media and through her own website. In this episode of the podcast, Henderson shares an inside look at what it’s like to be a successful design influencer, from negotiating contracts with sponsors to battling Instagram algorithms. She also talks about the inspiration behind her new book, the pros and cons of hustle culture, and why she’s now focused on delivering value, not chasing followers.

This episode is sponsored by Room & Board and Modern Matter.

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Emily Henderson
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Jean Lin on walking the fine line between idealism and business May 09, 2022

Driven by idealism and a desire to support independent makers, Jean Lin started the New York design gallery Colony in 2014 with a uniquely cooperative model. Over the years, she’s helped her clients grow their studios into thriving businesses—and refined her own approach along the way. On this episode of the show, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about finding a way to balance ideals and economics, coaching makers to charge their worth, and what she thinks needs to change about American design fairs.

This episode is sponsored by Room & Board and Modern Matter.

LINKS
Colony
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How Alexa Hampton learned the language of design May 02, 2022

Alexa Hampton is, by any definition, a lifer in the trade. The daughter of celebrated designer Mark Hampton, she grew up in the business, and took over her father’s firm at the age of 27 after his untimely passing in 1998. Since then, Alexa has never slowed down, earning endless plaudits for her work, appearing regularly on industry best-of lists, authoring books and columns, and designing product for everyone from Kravet to Theodore Alexander to The Shade Store. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about how interior design is like a language, why her ideal firm size is 11 employees, and why it’s important to embrace—not turn away from—transparency and change.

This episode is sponsored by Room & Board and Modern Matter.

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Alexa Hampton
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

What do venture capitalists think of the design industry? Apr 25, 2022

Forerunner Ventures is one of the premier venture capital firms in Silicon Valley, having led major investments in companies like Glossier, Bonobos, Serena & Lily, Outdoor Voices and Warby Parker. Partner Nicole Johnson has been there since the very beginning, and now she’s leading a round for buzzy online design platform The Expert. On this episode of the podcast she chats with host Dennis Scully about ow venture capital works, what Forerunner is looking for in new companies, and why The Expert was the first interior design startup she said yes to.

This episode is sponsored by Thibaut and Hartmann & Forbes

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Forerunner Ventures
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Why Veranda is betting big on print, with Steele Marcoux Apr 18, 2022

Though Veranda has moved from Atlanta to New York then back to the south in Birmingham Alabama, the publication has never lost sight of its graceful take on traditional design. Steele Marcoux, the magazine’s editor in chief since 2018, is currently overseeing a redesign to celebrate Veranda’s 35th anniversary. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about the book’s unique audience, the challenge of getting designers to wait to be published, and why, in the midst of the digital media revolution, Veranda is betting on print.

This episode is sponsored by Thibaut and Hartmann & Forbes

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Veranda
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Holly Hunt's second act Apr 11, 2022

In 1983, Holly Hunt took over a struggling showroom, and over the course of three decades transformed it into a powerhouse of the industry. After selling to Knoll for 95 million dollars in 2014, she stayed on for a while, but in 2020 Hunt finally left her namesake company. Now she’s back with a new venture, House of Hunt, a design and architecture firm. On this episode of the podcast, Hunt talks about what it’s like to be a designer after so many years running a showroom business, the competition between trade and retail brands, and how she feels about the industry’s shift towards transparency.

This episode is sponsored by Thibaut and Hartmann & Forbes

LINKS
House of Hunt
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Kerry Joyce on the balance between beauty and business Apr 04, 2022

It’s hard to find a designer more celebrated than Kerry Joyce—his work has landed him on the cover of top shelter magazines and earned him a regular spot on industry who’s who lists—not to mention his Emmy for set decoration. Kerry also runs a bustling product business, which includes everything from furniture and lighting to award-winning textiles and rugs. On this episode of the podcast, he chats with host Dennis Scully about finding the balance between creative passion and business, why the furniture industry is in such a state of flux, and the secrets behind a successful fabric line.

This episode is sponsored by Thibaut and Hartmann & Forbes

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Kerry Joyce
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Gachot Studios on putting design first Mar 28, 2022

John and Christine Gachot are the husband-and-wife team behind the design studio that bears their name, Gachot Studios. The two first met while working together for iconic designer Bill Sofield in the late 1990s, but it took them a long time to start their own firm. First, Christine spent a decade with hotelier Andre Balazs, while John acted as design director for David Easton and then Thad Hayes. In 2012, the Gachots finally started working together, and their studio has been on a tear ever since, designing everything from magazine-ready homes; to the Shinola hotel in Detroit and the Pendry in New York; to a line of fixtures for Waterworks.

In this episode of the podcast, John and Christine speak with host Dennis Scully about taking on different kinds of work to stay creatively engaged, why they don’t charge markups on product, and their approach to thoughtfully growing—and keeping—a large design team.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Crypton.

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Gachot Studios
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Modsy CEO Shanna Tellerman on how technology and design fit together Mar 21, 2022

Shanna Tellerman, the CEO of e-design platform Modsy, has a background in tech. She worked at Autodesk and Google before the frustration of decorating her own home led her to an idea: why not use 3D rendering to power the design process and bring it to a wider audience? Seven years later, Modsy has raised more than seventy million dollars, employed hundreds of e-designers, and executed thousands of projects for clients all over the world. On this episode of the podcast, Tellerman speaks with host Dennis Scully about what artificial intelligence can and can’t do in design, how Modsy could work with high-end designers, and what the future holds for technology in the home industry.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Crypton.

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Modsy
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Summer Thornton starts with a dream and designs backwards Mar 14, 2022

A rising star of Chicago’s design scene, Summer Thornton has won national acclaim for her bold, playful take on traditional style—her work has been featured extensively in top tier shelter magazines, and she’s on the verge of debuting her first book: Wonderland, Adventures in Decorating. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about her ‘five F’ system for vetting potential clients, what she’s hoping to get out of publishing a design book, and why she’s taking a careful approach towards growing her firm in a time of booming demand.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Crypton.

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Summer Thornton
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Backdrop wants to reinvent paint from scratch Mar 07, 2022

Natalie and Caleb Ebel are the husband-and-wife team behind direct-to-consumer paint brand Backdrop. The Ebels started Backdrop in 2018, inspired by a frustrating experience buying paint for their newborn’s nursery. In a few short years, they built a unique brand, driven by clever color names, stylish marketing, and surprising collaborations with the likes of Madewell and Dunkin’ Donuts. Last year, they made another surprising move, when the Ebels announced that Backdrop had been acquired by the parent company of fabric house Schumacher.

On this episode of the podcast, the two speak with host Dennis Scully about what it means to start a company from first principles, what millennial consumers want, and why a 100-year-old trade brand was the perfect partner for a buzzy startup.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Crypton.

LINKS
Backdrop
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Why did Food52 buy Schoolhouse? Feb 28, 2022

Amanda Hesser—CEO of kitchen-oriented content-meets-commerce brand Food52—and Sara Fritsch—president of Portland-based manufacturer Schoolhouse—have been on The Business of Home Podcast before, but never as partners. Following the news that Food52 had bought Schoolhouse in a deal valued at $48 million, they return to the show to discuss what goes on behind the scenes in a high-stakes, high value acquisition and why they believe the pandemic has permanently elevated the value of home.

This podcast is sponsored by High Point Market and Modern Matter

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Food52
Schoolhouse
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Rethinking the rules of the design trade with Stephane Silverman Feb 21, 2022

The last time Stephane Silverman—founder of the fabric brand Castel and the president of the Decorative Furnishings Association—was on the podcast, he delivered a masterclass on why fabric costs what it does. This time around he shares a breakdown of the trade industry as it is today, ranging from rising competition from retail brands to the endless complications of doing business online.

Stephane tells host Dennis Scully why inflation might have some surprising positive effects in fabric, whether interior designers are technically retail businesses, and why he thinks now is finally the time for the industry to come together and embrace transparent pricing.

This podcast is sponsored by High Point Market and Modern Matter

LINKS
Castel
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

John Pomp's quest for self-reliance Feb 14, 2022

As a young man, John Pomp fell in love with glassblowing. What started as an obsession soon became a thriving business, one that eventually grew to include handmade lighting and furniture. A maker, through and through, at every step of the way Pomp has pushed to control and perfect everything his company does—whether that’s manufacturing its own nuts and bolts in-house, or building a skateboarding ramp for his kids onto the floor of his Philadelphia workshop.

On this episode of the podcast, Pomp speaks with host Dennis Scully about why makers need to own their own real estate, the delicate balance between scaling a business and staying creative, and why everything he does comes down to a quest for self reliance.

This podcast is sponsored by High Point Market and Modern Matter

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John Pomp
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

No showrooms? No problem. How Maker & Son is building a furniture brand on the road Feb 07, 2022

Alex Willcock and Felix Conran are the father-and-son team behind the direct-to-consumer furniture brand Maker & Son. Founded in the UK in 2018, the company has grown quickly with an unorthodox approach. Its core product is a pillowy sofa that retails for over $10,000, and rather than brick-and-mortar showrooms, Maker & Son relies on a fleet of decorated vans that will visit potential customers in person. On this episode of the podcast, Willcox and Conran chat with host Dennis Scully about whether sustainability and the value of craftsmanship are finally connecting with consumers, their unique approach to marketing, and how they’re using a surprisingly sophisticated tech operation to make data driven decisions in an old-school industry.

This podcast is sponsored by High Point Market and Modern Matter

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Maker & Son
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How Meridith Baer built a staging empire Jan 31, 2022

A successful actress and screenwriter for decades, Meridith Baer got into staging by chance. In the late 1990s, one of her friends needed help with a home that was languishing on the market. Baer helped decorate it, the house sold in a matter of days, and a business was born. Today her eponymous company dominates the industry, staging thousands of homes all over the country every year. On this episode of the podcast, Baer speaks with host Dennis Scully about what the housing market looks like from her perspective, whether midcentury modern style will ever go out of fashion, and why buzzy technology like augmented and virtual reality can only do so much when it comes to selling a home.

This episode is sponsored by Juniper Market

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Meridith Baer
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Douglas Friedman photographed your favorite room Jan 24, 2022

If you’ve opened up a design magazine in the past decade, you’re familiar with Douglas Friedman's work. As one of the premier interior and architecture photographers of his generation, he’s worked with everyone from Steven Gambrel to Bridget Romanek to Ken Fulk—to say nothing of the portraits he’s shot, ranging from Hilary Rodham Clinton to Faye Dunaway. On this episode of the podcast, Douglas chats with host Dennis Scully about the challenges of photography in a digital age, how the shifting economics of magazine publishing can create opportunities for designers, and why a great photograph can sometimes come down to moving a single flower in a vase.

This episode is sponsored byJuniper Market

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Douglas Friedman
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Orlando Soria wants to expose the messy reality behind design TV Jan 17, 2022

Two years ago, designer Orlando Soria was riding high, with a hit book, buzzy brand partnerships and a new show on HGTV. In 2020, it all came crashing down in a series of unfortunate events that he’s been chronicling online. On this episode of the podcast Soria shares with host Dennis Scully a rare inside look at how design TV really works, and highlights the perilous nature of the influencer economy. Topics covered include the long hours, tough working conditions and low pay that go into making an HGTV show, the pressure to be positive on social media, and why being an influencer is a lot less glamorous than it might seem.

This episode is sponsored by Juniper Market.

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Orland Soria
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Custom furniture is booming. Grant Trick knows why Jan 10, 2022

Grant Trick’s custom upholstery workshop is a little off the beaten path: He operates in Irondale, Alabama, just outside Birmingham. But that hasn’t stopped him from becoming a secret source for designers around the country, who come to Grant for his impeccable technique and fine-tuned appreciation for the tailoring that goes into a custom piece. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about how the lead time crisis has actually helped his business, not hurt it; what he’s learned from launching his own line; and why custom furniture is more important to designers than ever.

This episode is sponsored by Juniper Market.

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Grant Trick
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The education of a designer, with Suzanne Tucker [Rebroadcast] Jan 03, 2022

Suzanne Tucker earned her stripes working first for Peter Hood in London, then for iconic California designer Michael Taylor. Now she leads Tucker & Marks, one of the west coast’s most prestigious firms. On this episode of the podcast, she tells Dennis Scully some incredible tales from her storied career, shares the secret to working well with architects, and explained how clients have (and haven’t) changed over the years.

This episode is sponsored by Juniper Market.

For the latest industry news, jobs listings, and more great podcasts, visit Business of Home

Looking back on an eventful year in the design industry Dec 27, 2021

Business of Home’s editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and executive editor Fred Nicolaus have spent the past 12 months reporting on the highs and lows of an unprecedented time in the design industry. On this episode of the podcast they join host Dennis Scully to take stock of an eventful year, discussing everything from how long the home boom is going to last, what long-term effects out-of-control lead times and rising inflation will have, and what lies ahead in the new year.

This episode is sponsored by The Bruno Effect and Coppersmith.

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Kaitlin Petersen
Fred Nicolaus
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Transparency is the way forward, says Eric Chang of Hellman-Chang Dec 20, 2021

Eric Chang started his company—high-end furniture brand Hellman-Chang—in 2005 with his childhood friend Daniel Hellman. At first, it was a hobby, but the two of them quickly rose to prominence with a signature look and a bold, buzzy marketing campaign. In addition to running a thriving brand, Eric is also a former president of the Decorative Furnishings Association, where he had a front-row seat to the challenges and opportunities of an industry in transition. In this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about why Hellman-Chang moved from Brooklyn to Georgia, the surprising reason why he loves RH, and why a lack of transparency has stunted the industry’s growth—and what we can do about it.

This episode is sponsored by The Bruno Effect and Coppersmith.

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Eric Chang
Hellman-Chang
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Alex Shuford of Rock House Farm on the war for the future of furniture Dec 13, 2021

The last two years have been a rollercoaster for Alex Shuford. His company—Rock House Farm, a group of furniture brands ranging from Century to Highland House to Hickory Chair—went from losing eighty percent of its business at the outbreak of COVID to a boom that has seen it struggle to keep up with demand. At the moment, catching up with his own backorders is the biggest thing on Shuford’s plate, but he also has his finger on the pulse of the broader furniture industry too. In this episode of the podcast, Shuford chats with host Dennis Scully about when we can expect the lead time crisis to finally calm down, whether the pandemic will cure the industry’s addiction to new product, and why interior designers will determine who wins the war for the future of furniture.

This episode is sponsored by The Bruno Effect and Coppersmith.

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Rock House Farm
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Sunbrella is making the most fabric it ever has. The market wants more Dec 06, 2021

Founded in 1880, Glen Raven has a deep history manufacturing fabrics of all kinds. In the 1960s it began producing a waterproof textile used for awnings under the Sunbrella brand. Over time, what was outside came in—no company has been more associated with the rise of performance fabrics than Sunbrella.

On this episode of the podcast, CEO Leib Oehmig chats with host Dennis Scully about the madness of the moment—his company’s products have never been more in demand, but it’s never been harder to make enough of them. He also shared an inside look at how performance fabrics are made, and explained why designers are key to Sunbrella’s future.

This episode is sponsored by The Bruno Effect and Coppersmith.

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Glen Raven
Sunbrella
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Humanscale wants to own the home office Nov 22, 2021

Bob King founded Humanscale in the early 1980s, just as personal computers were becoming common in the office, and workers had no idea how to sit properly to use them. Now his company, which today supplies chairs to corporations like Apple and Google, finds itself at another pivot point, as millions of Americans look for ways to make working from home work for them. On this episode of the podcast, King speaks with host Dennis Scully about what makes for a good home office, the challenge of making a good-looking ergonomic chair, and what designers can do to push for real sustainability from their manufacturers.

This episode is sponsored by Ben Soleimani and SideDoor

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Humanscale
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

How Jan Showers learned to trust her instincts Nov 15, 2021

With a bustling interior design business, a popular Dallas showroom, and a product line sold all over the country, Jan Showers wears many hats. She’s also a champion of the Texas design scene—this year she co-chaired the second annual Kips Bay Showhouse in Dallas, which just wrapped last month. Recently Showers made a big decision—to pull her line out of showrooms and go direct to designers. On this episode of the show, she talks with host Dennis Scully about what that change says about the industry, why Texas is a first-tier market now, and how she learned never to try and sell something she doesn’t love herself.

This episode is sponsored by Ben Soleimani and SideDoor

LINKS
Jan Showers
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Katie Ridder and Peter Pennoyer on the power of partnership Nov 08, 2021

Interior designer Katie Ridder and architect Peter Pennoyer make for unique partners—they’re married, and they do occasionally collaborate, but the two have forged impressive independent careers in their own right. Peter’s firm, a regular on the AD100 list, is one of the most respected traditional architectural practices in the country, while Katie, renowned for her keen eye and vibrant colors, has seen her work grace the covers of top shelter magazines for two decades. On this episode of the podcast, they speak with host Dennis Scully about how they get clients to make the right choices, why technology in design can be a double-edged sword, and how architects and designers can work together for the good of the project.

This episode is sponsored by Ben Soleimani and SideDoor

LINKS
Katie Ridder
Peter Pennoyer
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The Novogratz on the hard work of building a home brand Nov 01, 2021

Robert and Cortney Novogratz are the husband-and-wife design duo collectively known as ‘The Novogratz.’ In the 1990s the two bought a condemned townhouse in Manhattan and renovated it themselves. That kicked off a journey that has seen the two try their hand at everything from high-end house flipping; to hotel design; to starring in a reality TV show with their seven children. On this episode of the podcast, Robert and Cortney speak to host Dennis Scully about why building a home brand is so challenging, how they brought a casual, whimsical approach to high-end design, and how their hands-on, try-anything approach has helped them break down barriers in the industry.

This episode is sponsored by Ben Soleimani and SideDoor

High Point highlights with Kaitlin Petersen and Warren Shoulberg Oct 25, 2021

Twice a year, thousands of designers, manufacturers and retail buyers flock to a small city in North Carolina for the biggest furniture trade show in the world. It's High Point Market, and this year's fall edition just wrapped up. To discuss what happened at High Point, this week Business of Home's editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen and retail columnist Warren Shoulberg joined host Dennis Scully on the podcast. They spoke about the mood on the street in North Carolina, how the industry is continuing to grapple with supply chain issues, and why, even in the Zoom era, in-person events will carry on.

This episode is sponsored by The Bruno Effect and Ben Soleimani

LINKS
Kaitlin Petersen
Kaitlin's podcast Trade Tales
Warren Shoulberg
Warren’s podcast Retail Watch
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Do independent showrooms have a future? Oct 18, 2021

Garry Martin, founder of The Martin Group multiline showroom, is a veteran of the industry and the longest-lasting tenant of the Boston Design Center. Over the course of three decades he’s brought dozens of the trade’s finest makers and brands to New England. He’s seen the industry at its highs and lows, and has a keen sense of where things are headed. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about how he bounced back from losing his biggest line, the challenges of bringing the trade online, and why showrooms everywhere are leaving design centers.

This episode is sponsored by The Bruno Effect and Ben Soleimani

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LINKS
The Martin Group
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Thomas Lavin: "There will always be multiline showrooms" Oct 11, 2021

Thomas Lavin—founder of the Los Angeles multiline showroom that bears his name—got his start working in another showroom, Kneedler Fauchere, where he honed his aesthetic and developed a keen instinct for sales. In 2000 he went out on his own, and over the past two decades has built a thriving business representing some of the finest brands in the industry. In this episode of the podcast, Lavin talks with host Dennis Scully about the pressures on the multiline model, how he’s teaching the next generation of designers to sell to their clients, and whether industry pricing should be more transparent.

This episode is sponsored by The Bruno Effect and Ben Soleimani

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The lead time crisis isn't over yet. Bew White of Summer Classics explains why Oct 04, 2021

Bew White started Summer Classics in the late 70s, almost by chance. After coming across a tag in a shop with the words “Summer Classics' ' written on it, the phrase struck a chord, and he dreamt up a company. Today, along with its sister indoor brand Gabby and growing accessories line Wendy Jane, Summer Classics has become a powerhouse of the industry. The story of the company’s growth is full of ups, downs, twists and turns—it’s a journey White recounts in a memoir he published this summer.

In the latest episode of the podcast, he discusses some incredible tales from his book. He also explains why the industry’s lead time crisis isn’t over yet, how RH was able to get so big so fast, and why pivoting to working with designers helped save Summer Classics from the great recession.

This episode is sponsored by The Bruno Effect and Ben Soleimani

LINKS
Bew White's memoir "A Summer Classic"
Summer Classics
Gabby
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Brian McCarthy: 'You're only as good as the time you put in' Sep 27, 2021

Brian McCarthy began his career with a bang—right out of design school he was hired on at the legendary firm Parish Hadley, where he worked alongside future luminaries of the profession like Bunny Williams and David Kleinberg. When he left in 1992, it was the beginning of a sparkling solo career: McCarthy’s inspired interiors have won him a spot on the Elle Decor A-List and the AD100, and in 2020 he received the Albert Hadley Lifetime Achievement award from the New York School of Interior Design—an accolade fittingly named for his first mentor. In this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about what it was like to start his career at the best firm in the world, how he vets clients, and the secret to building a great design team.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton Home Fabrics and Hooker Furniture.

LINKS

Brian McCarthy
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Interior design is getting faster. Victoria Hagan is ready Sep 20, 2021

A celebrated interior designer whose work has graced the cover of countless shelter publications, Victoria Hagan, who is often described as the reigning queen of restrained elegance, is one of the defining talents of her generation. On this episode of podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about what she’s learned from working on projects during COVID, why the business is getting faster, and the no-nonsense advice she gives people who are considering a career in design.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton Home Fabrics and Hooker Furniture.

LINKS

Victoria Hagan
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The state of design publishing with Suzanne Slesin Sep 13, 2021

Editorial coverage of design wasn’t always meant for the masses—that is, until reporters like Suzanne Slesin started writing about it. Beginning in the late 1970’s, Slesin helped usher in a new era at publications like New York Magazine and the New York Times home section, where she wrote some of the first service pieces and examined the greater cultural impact of interiors. From the top seat at popular titles like HomeStyle and House & Garden and most recently as publisher and founder of Pointed Leaf Press, she’s watched the rise and fall of influential design movements with a keen eye and a front-row seat.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton Home Fabrics and Hooker Furniture.

LINKS

Pointed Leaf Press
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Tapping into the design zeitgeist with Minted CEO Mariam Naficy Aug 30, 2021

A little more than a decade ago, the world of digital printing was a different place, dominated by manufacturers and largely devoid of artists and designers. In 2007, Mariam Naficy set out to change that, founding Minted as a stationery company that would use emerging tech to promote the work of independent artists and designers. Nearly 15 years later, the company continues to stay ahead of the curve through its crowdsourced design competitions—giving consumers a hand in what’s sold on the site while simultaneously offering an early glimpse into rising trends.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton Home Fabrics and Hooker Furniture.

LINKS
Minted
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The art of exterior decoration with John Danzer of Munder Skiles Aug 23, 2021

John Danzer, the founder of exterior furniture brand Munder Skiles, has always approached his work with an academic rigor—he spent years researching and lecturing on the history of garden furniture before making a single piece. Now, he produces a full collection, and does his own outdoor design work for clients on the side. On this episode of the podcast, Danzer speaks with host Dennis Scully about the surprising history of teak, taking design inspiration from Thomas Jefferson, and the speech that made him drop everything, switch careers and follow his passion.

This episode is sponsored by SideDoor and Moore & Giles.
LINKS
Munder Skiles
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The architect's perspective with Tom Kligerman Aug 16, 2021

Tom Kligerman is a co-founder of the award-winning architectural firm Ike Kligerman Barkley. His work, often on shingle style homes, has been featured in countless publications—including a 26 year run on Architectural Digest’s AD100 list. On this episode of show, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about the pros and cons of being known for a particular design style, how he experiments with client presentations, and how even prestigious architects land clients on Instagram.

This episode is sponsored by SideDoor and Moore & Giles Leather.

LINKS
Tom Kligerman
Ike Kligerman Barkley
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

40 years ago Boyd Lighting changed everything—they're still tinkering Aug 09, 2021

Jay and Schuylar Sweet are the father and son duo at the helm of Boyd Lighting. Their story begins a century ago when Jay’s grandfather founded the business after witnessing one of the earliest commercial lighting expositions. Boyd began as a custom lighting business working with architects in the SF Bay Area. The company has evolved as Jay suggested moving into a product line operation. And now Skylar’s startup sensibilities are coming to the fore. On this episode of the podcast, host Dennis Scully spoke with Jay and Schuylar about the moves that put their company on the map, how they got smart about designer collaborations, and what it means to lead a century old company into the next 100 years.

This podcast is sponsored by SideDoor and Moore & Giles

LINKS
Boyd Lighting
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Timur Yumusaklar wants Schumacher to keep trying new things Aug 02, 2021

Timur Yumusaklar joined F. Schumacher and Co. in 2015, when the company still consisted of its heritage fabric and rug brands. He quickly set to work bringing the 131-year-old business up to date, developing the designer membership community Freddie, acquiring Los Angeles–based paint brand Backdrop and transforming the company’s newspaper into the glossy Frederic. In this episode of the podcast, Yumusaklar tells host Dennis Scully about his efforts to usher Schumacher—and the industry at large—into a brighter future.

This episode is sponsored by Moore & Giles and SideDoor

How David Kleinberg learned from the best to build his own institution Jul 26, 2021

Though David Kleinberg came from humble beginnings in suburban Long Island, an early interest in interiors and a chance encounter with decorators Robert Denning and Vincent Fourcade soon sent him on a journey alongside the most influential names in the New York interior design world. Kleinberg went on to work for renowned designers Albert Hadley and Sister Parish, spending 16 years at the pair’s firm before departing to build an institution of his own. Since founding David Kleinberg Design Associates in 1997, he’s used his insider knowledge of the industry as a foundation for a business that’s willing to adapt to changing client behavior.

This episode is sponsored by The House of Rohl and the Future of Home conference.

LINKS
David Kleinberg
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The California Collective on shaking up the showroom model Jul 19, 2021

When Paige Cleveland, Brook Perdigon and Alexis Hartman began meeting for coffee in the early days of the pandemic, they didn’t realize that their casual conversations would evolve into a new model for navigating the industry. The trio of textile designers are putting their ideas to the test with the California Collective—a unique partnership in which they pool business expertise and resources to sell directly to designers in their home state. In this episode of the podcast, the group tells host Dennis Scully about pulling their products out of California showrooms, their early experiences with the new model, and how a more transparent industry could be best-suited to evolving client expectations.

This episode was sponsored by The House of Rohl and The Future of Home conference.

LINKS
Brook Perdigon
Rule of Three
Lake August
California Collective
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

1stDibs just went public. CEO David Rosenblatt says it's only the beginning Jul 12, 2021

1stDibs has come a long way from its origins as an online marketplace for antique dealers—the platform now offers everything from jewelry to art to contemporary design. In recent years, the company also shifted business models to a direct e-commerce approach. That change may have ruffled a few feathers, but it set the stage for 1stDibs to go public, another big step in scaling up. On this episode of the podcast, 1stDibs CEO David Rosenblatt speaks with host Dennis Scully about the new visibility that came with last month’s IPO, why the industry’s future is online—and what that means for designers and the way they charge.

This episode is sponsored by The House of Rohl and the Future of Home conference.

LINKS
1stdibs
1stdibs files to go public
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Holly Hunt's new president is sticking with the trade Jul 05, 2021

Marc Szafran is the president of Holly Hunt. Szafran took on the role in a strange moment—just weeks before the pandemic turned the world on its head. Now, as life returns to normal, he’s steering the iconic company through a busy time, with a massive new showroom in LA, and a big push on e-commerce in the works. On this episode of the show, Szafran tells host Dennis Scully about his past experience running business operations for Thom Filicia and Michael S. Smith, why Holly Hunt won’t be exploring retail, and what it’s like to take over for a legend of the industry.

This episode is sponsored by House of Rohl and Future of Home

LINKS
Holly Hunt
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Jiun Ho is Mr. Overachiever Jun 28, 2021

Jiun Ho's life story has been an incredible journey—one that took him all the way from Kuala Lumpur to Ames Iowa. Today he oversees a thriving interior design business in San Francisco, as well as a line of furniture, lighting and textiles carried in top showrooms around the world—including a few of his own. On this episode of the podcast he speaks with host Dennis Scully about how he learned to stop listening to the market and trust his own vision, what’s got to change about multiline showrooms, and how he earned the nickname “Mr. Overachiever.”

This episode is sponsored by Atlanta Market and House of Rohl.

LINKS
Jiun Ho
Jiun Ho: Experience (Pointed Leaf Press)
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Will our obsession with outdoor living outlast the pandemic? Janice Parker thinks so Jun 21, 2021

www.businessofhome.comA veteran of the trade and a master of her craft, Janice Parker has crafted exquisite landscapes for countless high-profile residential projects and won dozens of awards for her work. If you flip open a glossy design magazine and see beautiful rolling lawns, charming stone paths and a colorful garden, there’s a good chance she had something to do with it. On this episode of the podcast, Parker speaks with host Dennis Scully about the red hot market for exotic trees, how climate change is directly affecting her work, and whether our pandemic-inspired obsession with outdoor living will last.

This episode is sponsored by Atlanta Market and The House of Rohl

LINKS
Janice Parker
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The leaders of the Black Interior Designers Network: "Real change takes real work" Jun 14, 2021

Founded in 2011, the Black Interior Designers Network provides support, mentorship and advocacy for black designers in the industry. In this episode of the podcast host Dennis Scully speaks to BIDN president Keia McSwain, an interior designer based out of Denver, Colorado; and BIDN chief development officer Kia Weatherspoon, whose Washington, D.C. firm Determined by Design brings a high-end aesthetic to affordable housing projects.

They discuss what has and hasn’t changed since the racial reckoning of last summer, bringing beautiful design to every income bracket, and pushing for progress in an industry that’s slow to change.

This episode was sponsored by Atlanta Market and The House of Rohl.

LINKS
BIDN
Keia McSwain
Kia Weatherspoon
The Iconic Home
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

The internet makes it easy for designers to get shopped. SideDoor is working on that Jun 07, 2021

A unique challenge of the digital age: As more and more product is sold online, it’s easier and easier for designers' clients to shop around, cutting them out of the equation. Entrepreneurs Lynsey Humphrey and Chad Smith want to fight back against that with an online platform called Sidedoor. In the process, they're looking to help old school trade brands compete in a new era.

In this episode of the podcast, Humphrey and Smith speak to host Dennis Scully about the enormous task of gathering data, why they don’t do returns, and the stark choices facing the design industry as the world goes online.

This episode is sponsored by Atlanta Market and Rohl

LINKS
Sidedoor
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

There's never a dull moment with Justina Blakeney May 24, 2021

Justina Blakeney is a designer, author, artist, and creator of Jungalow—a lifestyle brand that celebrates bright colors, lively patterns, and indoor greenery in abundance. Jungalow’s success has catapulted Justina to design-world fame, leading to licensing partnerships with everyone from Loloi Rugs and Fabricut to Target and Anthropologie—not to mention a handful of bestselling books. In this episode of the podcast she chats with host Dennis Scully about harnessing the incredible power of social media, the difference between being an artist and a designer, and how a winding career path took her to just the right place.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton and Room & Board.

LINKS
Justina Blakeney
Jungalow
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Can Poltrona Frau make it big in America? May 17, 2021

A hundred-year-old company with plenty of heritage under its belt, Poltrona Frau took English furniture and gave it an Italian twist. Now the company is a European institution, known for its fine leatherwork—and for supplying interiors to Italy’s iconic sports car makers like Ferrari and Maserati. Over here in the states, Poltrona Frau is a little less well-known, but CEO Nicola Coropulis wants to change that.

On this episode of the podcast he tells host Dennis Scully about how his company is tapping into a growing appetite for interior design in China, the mistake it made when it first came to America, and what it’s like to look at the market with Italian glasses on.

This episode is sponsored by Crypton and Room & Board

LINKS
Poltrona Frau
The Vanity Fair chair
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Robin Petravic of Heath Ceramics wants to build a business that can last 200 years May 10, 2021

Originally founded in the San Francisco Bay Area in 1948 by potter Edith Heath, over the course of fifty years Heath became an iconic dinnerware and tile brand. By the late nineties, Heath had fallen on hard times—but in 2003 the married couple of Robin Petravic and Cathy Bailey purchased the company and turned its fortunes around.

In this episode of the podcast, Dennis Scully speaks to Petravic about the goal of building an organization that can last 200 years, how the power of storytelling saved the company, and why, in the midst of a pandemic slowdown, Heath gave employees a raise.

This episode is sponsored by Room & Board and Crypton

LINKS
Heath's ESOP program
Heath's pursuit of Zero-waste manufacturing
Business of Home

The education of a designer, with Suzanne Tucker May 03, 2021

Suzanne Tucker earned her stripes working first for Peter Hood in London, then for iconic California designer Michael Taylor. Now she leads Tucker & Marks, one of the west coast’s most prestigious firms. On this episode of the podcast, she tells Dennis Scully some incredible tales from her storied career, shares the secret to working well with architects, and explained how clients have (and haven’t) changed over the years.

This episode is sponsored by Room & Board and Crypton.

For the latest industry news, jobs listings, and more great podcasts, visit Business of Home

Gary Wheeler of the ASID: "Interior design is at a crossroads" Apr 26, 2021

Gary Wheeler is the CEO of the American Society of Interior Designers, or, as it’s more commonly known, the ASID. A professional membership organization for both commercial and residential designers, the ASID is almost 100 years old, but Wheeler has been in the top spot for less than 12 months. With a global pandemic to contend with, and racial inequality at the forefront, he’s had a busy start to his tenure.

On this episode of the podcast, Wheeler speaks with host Dennis Scully about why he wants to end the squabbling between commercial and residential designers, the danger of interior design being taxed as a luxury, and why now is the right time to invite everyone to the table.

This episode was sponsored by Serena & Lily and Artistic Tile

LINKS
ASID
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Kazumi Yoshida and the incredible story of Clarence House Apr 19, 2021

Born in a small town in Japan to a family of doctors, artist and textile designer Kazumi Yoshida was always something of a free spirit. He made his way to London as a young man, then New York, where he met Robin Roberts, the extravagant, larger-than-life founder of Clarence House. The two were a match made in heaven, and Kazumi’s creations saw the company reach new heights. Edgy, artistic, colorful and opulent—for a time Clarence House was the fabric brand you simply couldn’t ignore.

Roberts passed away in the early 2000s, and Clarence House went through a quiet period. But now it has a new owner and Kazumi is once again working on new designs as artistic director. On this episode of podcast. He tells host Dennis Scully some incredible stories from Clarence House’s heyday, and explains why he’s optimistic that the brand is entering an exciting new chapter.

This episode is sponsored by Serena & Lily and Artistic Tile.

LINKS
Clarence House
Kazumi Yoshida
Clarence House's Madeline Pattern
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Meganne Wecker of Skyline Furniture thinks we're living through an e-commerce tipping point Apr 12, 2021

Founded in 1946 in the suburbs of Chicago by Meganne Wecker’s grandfather, Skyline Furniture has always been a family business. It’s also always stood a little bit apart from the crowd for a willingness to try new things. Wecker joined at an opportune time, just as e-commerce was beginning to take off—ever since, she’s pushed Skyline to master the nuances of making furniture to sell online.

On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about why she launched a startup— Cloth and Company—within Skyline; why she’s betting on digitally printed fabrics; and why she thinks we’re living through a major tipping point for e-commerce.

This episode is sponsored by Serena & Lily and Artistic Tile.
LINKS
Skyline Furniture
Cloth & Company
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Russell Towner of Lee Industries on lead times and the future of furniture Apr 05, 2021

Russell Towner, the president of Lee Indstries, is a lifer in the furniture business, with almost three decades spent at companies like Henredon, Baker and Theodor Alexander. Now he’s at the helm of one of North Carolina’s most venerable brands at a peculiar time. A COVID-inspired boom in home spending has filled Lee’s order book, but the pandemic—and a shock foam shortage—has made it harder than ever to meet demand. On this episode of the podcast, Towner talks with host Dennis Scully about why the furniture business is so dependent on two chemicals, what the concept of spressetura means to Lee, and what things will look like in the design business when the pandemic is a thing of the past.

This episode of the show is sponsored by Serena & Lily and Artistic Tile

LINKS
Lee Industries
Lead Times
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

You can't do high-end design online? The Expert begs to differ Mar 29, 2021

During COVID lockdowns last year, Jake Arnold, a rising young interior designer based out of Los Angeles, teamed up with Leo Seigal, an entrepreneur. Together they built an ingeniously simple platform, The Expert, that connects clients with top designers for hour-long video consultations. So far their creation has been a hit, and designers, including Amber Lewis, Leanne Ford and Martyn Lawrence Bullard, have flocked to the site, where they charge up to $2,500 for 55 minutes of their time.

On this episode of the podcast, Arnold and Seigal speak with host Dennis Scully about the story behind their venture, why bringing trade brands onboard is the next step, and how an elevated take on e-design could change the industry as we know it.

This episode is sponsored by Baker + Hesseldenz and Serena & Lily
LINKS
The Expert
Jake Arnold
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Maharam's Tony Manzari on the power of completely reinventing your company Mar 22, 2021

Started out of a pushcart in the early 1900s, today fabric brand Maharam is a giant of the industry, sending out over 2 million samples a year. It hasn’t all been steady growth—the company underwent a major reinvention in the 1990s that saw employee turnover surge and profits drop. But it paid off, and Maharam was acquired in 2013 by Herman Miller for 156 million dollars. In this episode of the show, president Tony Manzari tells host Dennis Scully about how COVID is causing another reinvention at Maharam, the future of sampling, and what the residential design industry can learn from the contract side of the business.

This episode is sponsored by Serena & Lily and Baker+Hesseldenz.

LINKS
Maharam
Business of Home
Dennis Scully

Ben Soleimani built his name on rugs. Now he's going after the whole home Mar 15, 2021

Ben Soleimani’s story is a dramatic one—the son of a prosperous rug dealer in Iran, his family escaped the country in the thick of the revolution that transformed the middle east. Soleimani eventually found himself in Los Angeles and wasted no time getting into business, first as a teenager, establishing his family’s operations in California, then branching into contemporary design and partnering with Gary Friedman to establish RH’s rug program. Now Soleimani has a whole home brand of his own, selling everything from the rugs he’s famous for to textiles, furniture and accessories.

On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about how the design industry’s attitude towards rugs has evolved over the years; why he thinks in-stock, quick-ship product is the wave of the future; and why he loves taking on a challenge.
This episode is sponsored by Serena & Lily and Baker + Hesseldenz

LINKS
The Iranian Revolution
Ben Soleimani
RH
Gary Friedman
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Thomas O'Brien: "You have to fight for the things you're passionate about." Mar 08, 2021

Like so many leaders in the design industry, Thomas O’Brien began his career working for Ralph Lauren. When he went out on his own in the early nineties he found quick success with Aero, a buzzy shop in SoHo that led to designing stores for Donna Karan and Giorgio Armani. O’Brien also found great success in product—his lines for Waterworks, Hickory Chair and Visual Comfort have all been runaway bestsellers, and his collaboration with Target paved the way for high-end designers to partner with mass market brands.

On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with Dennis Scully about the passion that’s missing in the industry today, the importance of fighting for choices you believe in, and why, despite the blue chip licensing deals, he considers himself a shopkeeper at heart.

This episode was sponsored by Serena & Lily and Baker + Hesseldenz

LINKS
Thomas O'Brien/Aero
The Rhinelander
O'Brien's Osiris light for Visual Comfort
Dennis Scully
Business of Home

Bonus Episode: Trade Tales with Kaitlin Petersen Mar 04, 2021

In a special bonus episode of the Business of Home podcast, we're sharing the first episode of BOH's new show, Trade Tales. Hosted by editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen, the podcast features interviews with interior designers about nurturing creativity, finding a firm’s financial footing, setting goals and discovering their own version of success as a result. In the first episode, Philadelphia-based designer Nile Johnson shares the story of a dream client who recommended him to a nightmare client—and the lessons he learned. Subscribe to Trade Tales on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.

LINKS
Trade Tales
Nile Johnson
Kaitlin Petersen
Business of Home

Business of Home's editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen thinks the design industry deserves great journalism Mar 01, 2021

On this episode of the podcast, host Dennis Scully speaks with Business of Home’s editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen. Petersen began her career in journalism covering everything from food and culture in Chicago, to true crime in Texas. She ended up in New York in the design media world at Hearst, working for Veranda and helping to relaunch Metropolitan Home before decamping to BOH. Now Kaitlin is launching a podcast of her own, Trade Tales, focused on great stories and business lessons from working designers. In the show, she talks about the out-of-control lead times plaguing the industry today, what it’s like to cover RH up close, and the challenges of bringing real journalism to the design trade.

This episode is sponsored by Serena & Lily and Baker+Hesseldenz

Links
Business of Home
Kaitlin Petersen
Kaitlin’s article on lead times in the design industry
Kaitlin’s profile of RH Chairman and CEO Gary Friedman
Dennis Scully

Asad Syrkett wants Elle Decor to start conversations Feb 22, 2021

Asad Syrkett studied architecture in school but soon found himself more comfortable writing about it. After stints at Architectural Record, Architectural Digest and Curbed, he briefly decamped to the brand side to work for Swedish furniture brand Hem. Now Syrkett is back in media in the top spot at Elle Decor, and the first issue he’s supervised cover to cover just hit newsstands. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about a bold cover concept that reimagines an iconic room, the future of print magazines, and why he wants Elle Decor to tackle the difficult conversations about race, politics and design head on.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Sidedoor.

Links
Asad Syrkett
Elle Decor
Nancy Lancaster's Yellow Room
Dennis Scully

"The best spot to buy furniture in America." Jim Druckman on the past, present and future of the New York Design Center Feb 15, 2021

Jim Druckman grew up in the furniture industry. As a young man he followed his father into the family distribution business and learned the trade. Then, in the 1990s Druckman took over at the New York Design Center and began transforming the building into the high-end, design-driven destination it is today. In that role, and as president of the board at Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club, he has helped build the interior design industry as we know it.

In this episode of the podcast, coinciding with the 95th anniversary of the New York Design Center, Druckman speaks with host Dennis Scully about how showrooms and design centers need to keep offering designers a reason to come shopping, what the lasting effects of COVID might be, and why the biggest challenge the industry faces has little to do with pricing or transparency, and everything to do with educating the public on the value of great design.

This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and SideDoor.

Kneedler Fauchère is a 73-year-old showroom. "Nothing has changed" say its leaders Feb 08, 2021

Founded in San Francisco in 1948, Kneedler Fauchere was among the first multiline showrooms in the country. By elevating future icons like Jack Lenor Larsen as well as burgeoning giants like Clarence House and Glant, it came to define the look and shape of the 20th century design industry. Today, Kneedler Fauchere is still going strong, with showrooms in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Denver, and a “house” brand under its umbrella, the home furnishings company Gregorius Pineo.

On this episode of the podcast, the leadership team of George Massar and Doug Kinzley tell host Dennis Scully the story of their company, and talk about its plans for the future. They explain how Kneedler survived a rebellion among some of its biggest brands, why the rise of Restoration Hardware doesn't concern them and how the company has stayed strong by sticking to the basics, focusing on designers, and keeping things simple.

This episode was sponsored by The Shade Store and SideDoor.

"Absolutely explosive growth." How Kathy Kuo built a digitally nimble design business Feb 01, 2021

Kathy Kuo got started in the aftermath of the great recession, back when selling furniture online was still something of a novelty. Over the past decade she’s grown her business by taking a nimble, catch-all approach: when customers come to her site shopping for a few sconces, often they end up buying an e-design package. And if they come looking for an e-design package? Well, Kuo’s company is happy to recommend a few good sconces too. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about the challenges of reaching clients who don’t know they need an interior designer yet, why she thinks trade pricing will disappear someday, and why she’s betting that, post-COVID, the demand for home goods is going to get even stronger. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and SideDoor.

Malene Barnett and Leyden Lewis on why BADG's Obsidian project is no ordinary designer showhouse Jan 25, 2021

Artist and activist Malene Barnett and designer and artist Leyden Lewis are two of the twenty-two creators behind the Black Artists and Designers Guild’s new project, Obsidian, a virtual concept house designed to celebrate innovation from black creatives—and to craft a home around the past, present and future needs of black families. On this episode of the podcast they chat with host Dennis Scully about why the Obsidian House is more like an innovation-driven car show than a typical designer showhouse, the challenges of creating meaningful partnerships with sponsors, and why the design industry needs to get beyond diversity as a goal, and start focusing on equity. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Universal Furniture.

John Robshaw on standing out in a crowded industry Jan 18, 2021

As a young art student on a trip to India, John Robshaw fell in love with the technique of hand block printing. He began learning the craft and making his own fabrics, and almost by chance, they were discovered by blue chip designers like Peter Marino and Michael Smith—Robshaw’s career took off. He still makes fabric today, but his company has since expanded into bedding, art, apparel—and he’s revamping its furniture line in the coming year.

On this episode of the show, Robshaw speaks with host Dennis Scully about standing out in a crowded market for fabric, working with artisans from around the world, and why he’s opening up a new shop that he hopes will bring back a quirky, personal approach to retail. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Universal Furniture.

Roman Alonso of Commune cares about how a project feels, not how it looks Jan 11, 2021

Roman Alonso of Los Angeles design firm Commune got his start in the world of fashion, working for Barney’s and Isaac Mizrahi. Seeking a change of pace, he and three friends started a truly unique company, one that did a little bit of everything: interiors, products, branding, graphic design and more. Today, Commune is known as one of the country’s most influential interior design firms, but Roman has kept the company true to its multidisciplinary roots, and he still likes to take on projects that stretch the definition of what design can do. On this episode of the podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about how he carried on after a split with his original partners; why he craves more input from clients, not less; and how Commune creates feelings, not looks. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Universal Furniture.

Alessandra Branca is trying something new Jan 04, 2021

For decades, Alessandra Branca has been a fixture in the upper echelons of the interior design profession, with her buoyant style gracing shelter magazines and showhouses alike. Now she has a new venture, Casa Branca, a brand and e-commerce platform that sells fabric, wallpaper, tableware and vintage pieces. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about what it’s been like to launch a new business in the midst of a pandemic, why the convenience of online shopping can’t replace personal relationships, and why she advises young designers to slow down, take their time, and learn something new every day. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Universal Furniture.

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[Rebroadcast] Jack Lenor Larsen defined 20th century textiles Dec 28, 2020

Not many designers can count Frank Lloyd Wright, Eero Saarinen and Marilyn Monroe as clients, but Jack Lenor Larsen is no ordinary designer. A legend of the textile business, Larsen started his own studio in New York in 1952. His vivid early work convinced a once-skeptical Florence Knoll, who commissioned Larsen to create fabric for her furniture. From then on, Larsen’s business and reputation grew and grew. Drawing on extensive travels around the globe, he introduced ikat and batik to the American public, designed upholstery for Pan Am, authored over a dozen books and championed traditional craft wherever he went. Today, his work is studied in textbooks and displayed in museums around the world. At 92, Larsen has a lifetime's worth of stories—in this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he shares a few of them.

"The Frank Sinatra of lighting" — Visual Comfort and Circa have no plans to slow down Dec 21, 2020

Tapping into an overseas manufacturing boom, Andy Singer started Visual Comfort in the mid 80s, but it wasn’t until he partnered with master lighting designer Sandy Chapman ten years later that the company took off—now it’s one of the industry’s most recognizable brands, producing well known collaborations with designers like Thomas O’Brien, Alexa Hampton, Kelly Wearstler and many more. His sister Gale worked with Andy in the early days, but in the 90s split off to form Circa as a separate showroom business, which has also grown explosively—she’s opened eight new locations in 2020 alone. In this episode of the podcast, the Singers discuss using data to make design decisions, the opportunities and challenges of selling trade products online, and why Visual Comfort wants to be the Frank Sinatra of lighting companies. This episode was sponsored by Rebecca Atwood Designs.

How Studio McGee became a phenomenon Dec 14, 2020

Syd and Shea McGee, the married couple behind design firm Studio McGee, are enjoying a period of phenomenal success. Their debut book is a bestseller, their new Netflix show is a hit, and their e-commerce business McGee & Co. is experiencing explosive growth. On this episode if the podcast, they talk about how what looks like an overnight success has actually been a long journey, the resistance they’ve encountered from an old-school industry, and how confronting their own limitations led to their biggest breakthrough. This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Atwood Designs.

Buildlane wants to bring custom furniture online Dec 07, 2020

Frank Eybsen started online custom furniture platform Buildlane after working in a furniture factory himself and seeing firsthand how frustrating and opaque the experience could be for designers. He made it his mission to bring the process entirely online, and has built a network of factories and a digital platform that connects the trade to the craftsmen who build their furniture. In this episode of the show, Eybsen and COO Heather Zeilman talk about why makers have been slow to embrace change, what it’s like to pitch investors who may never have even heard of the interior design industry, and what Domino’s Pizza has to do with ordering a custom sofa online. This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Atwood Designs.

Barry Dixon sees everything as a learning opportunity Nov 30, 2020

For an interior designer known for classic American style, Barry Dixon’s childhood was surprisingly international—his father’s career took the family all around the world, and as a young man he lived everywhere from India and Pakistan to South Africa and New Caledonia. Today Dixon is one of the profession’s most respected designers, with high-profile collections through Arteriors, Fortuny, Vervain and others. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he chats with host Dennis Scully about the COVID adaptations he’s planning to keep forever, his unique philosophy on product licensing, and what it’s like to work for both republicans and democrats in a charged political atmosphere. This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Atwood Designs.

Robert Couturier's charmed career Nov 23, 2020

Born in Paris and raised by his grandparents, interior designer and architect Robert Couturier is a living embodiment of a more formal, genteel era. He came to New York in the seventies, and after working for Adam Tihany, established his own firm and began working on projects that would land him on the covers of magazines and take him around the world. In this episode of the podcast, he shares a personal recollection of his young life, then discusses why he likes to have friends as clients, why he never got into product licensing, and whether interior design as a profession will live on. This episode is sponsored by Moore & Giles and the This Old House podcast.

An online furniture brand with a twist—it's for designers only Nov 16, 2020

With a focus on e-commerce and no showrooms or traveling reps, at first glance Saltwolf looks like any number of online furniture startups. But there’s a twist: it’s a to-the-trade company founded by interior designers, for interior designers only. On this episode of the podcast, founders Lindy and Jordan Williams talk about the frustrations they experienced in their own firm that led them to start Saltwolf, why younger clients don’t tolerate long lead times, and the secrets of reaching interior designers online.

Can Farrow & Ball grow while keeping what makes it special? Nov 09, 2020

Started in 1946 in Dorset, England, Farrow & Ball makes paint that has become known for its chalky matte finish, its use on historical British estates, and quirky color names, like Elephant’s Breath, Nancy’s Blushes or Sulking Room Pink. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, CEO Anthony Davey and head of creative Charlotte Cosby tell host Dennis Scully about their quest to highlight Farrow & Ball as a performance option, that SNL sketch, and the challenge of preserving the brand’s heritage while reaching out to new audiences. This episode is sponsored by Moore & Giles Leather and the Ask This Old House podcast.

Eric Edelson of Fireclay Tile on the 'Jerry Maguire' moment that turned his business around Nov 02, 2020

As a former Lehman Brothers associate and Stanford MBA, Eric Edelson was an unlikely candidate to take over Fireclay, a small tile company struggling through the 2008 recession. However, he led it through a rough patch, and has grown the company into a thriving operation. In this episode of the podcast, he speaks to host Dennis Scully about the “Jerry McGuire” moment that led him to completely reinvent his company, a surprising approach to sampling, and why focusing on ethics and sustainability makes good business sense. This episode was sponsored by Moore & Giles Leather.

The founders of Aphrochic on putting the mission first Oct 26, 2020

Originally started by academics Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason as a blog in 2007, over time Aphrochic has grown into a lifestyle and media brand including an interior design studio, product lines, a podcast and a magazine that celebrates black creatives in the home industry and beyond. On this episode of the podcast, they spoke with host Dennis Scully about how their growth has been organic—not easy, their new book project, and whether the national reckoning on race will lead to real change in the design industry. This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture and Resource Furniture.

Six months later, how have makers and manufacturers weathered the pandemic? Oct 19, 2020

Back in April, when the coronavirus pandemic was still in its early stages, host Dennis Scully spoke to three makers and manufacturers to hear how they were weathering the disruption. Six months later much has changed. In this episode, he checks in with the same three—Sara Fritsch of lighting and lifestyle brand Schoolhouse, Jonathan Glatt of handmade furniture company O&G studio and Andrew Crone of furniture maker Chaddock—to find out what they’ve learned from an unprecedented time and what lessons they’re carrying forward. This episode is sponsored by Resource Furniture and Universal Furniture.

Bigger is better for Furnitureland South Oct 12, 2020

For those unfamiliar, Furnitureland South is both a local North Carolina institution and a world-record holder: at 1.3 million square feet, it’s the largest furniture store on the planet. On this episode of the podcast, host Dennis Scully chats with CEO Jeff Harris about the lessons his company shares with interior designers, why he’s skeptical that High Point will become a year-round destination, and why, despite the rise of e-commerce, he thinks great furniture will always be sold in person. This episode is sponsored by Resource Furniture and Universal Furniture.

Will 3D modeling change the design industry forever? Oct 05, 2020

Amra Tareen is the founder of ALL3D, a new startup that aims to bring affordable 3D modeling to the design world. Tareen's background straddles the line between technology and home. She helped build e-design platform Decorist, and acted as the head of innovation at Bed Bath & Beyond—two experiences that convinced her of the transformative power of digital renderings. On this episode of the podcast, she chats with host Dennis Scully about why she believes photography is on the verge of disruption, why an improvement to the iPhone will change everything, and whether artificial intelligence can replace interior designers. This episode is sponsored by Resource Furniture and Universal Furniture.

John McDonald of Semihandmade is looking beyond IKEA Sep 28, 2020

Semihandmade started as a small woodworking shop in LA, but after founder John McDonald experimented with making custom doors for IKEA kitchen cabinets, it grew explosively, becoming a national brand with over seventy employees and millions in revenue. Now McDonald is thinking beyond IKEA, with a new direct-to-consumer brand he’s betting will change the way Americans buy kitchens. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he chats with host Dennis Scully about Semihandmade’s scrappy beginnings, a complicated relationship with IKEA, and why he hired veteran publishing executive Beth Brenner to take his company into its next chapter. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Universal Furniture.

Joe Lucas on the LA design scene, knockoffs and the future of showrooms Sep 21, 2020

On this week’s episode of the show, host Dennis Scully speaks to Joe Lucas, interior designer and founder of the beloved showroom Harbinger. Lucas began his career working for Michael S. Smith, but quickly built his own business, which has evolved to include multi line showrooms in New York and Los Angeles. On either coast, Joe has his finger on the pulse of what’s happening in the design world. He chats about the tension between street level shops and the design center in LA, the prevalence of lookalikes and knockoffs in the industry today, and why he believes that multiline showrooms will always have a role to play. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Universal Furniture.

CB2 president Ryan Turf wants to keep pushing the envelope Sep 14, 2020

In the early 2000s, Ryan Turf started on the sales floor of the company’s first store. Now he’s president, and has been leading an effort to carve out a unique voice for the brand that stands alongside—but distinct from—parent company Crate & Barrel. Under Turf’s leadership, the CB2 continues to make more and more adventurous design choices—including a range of capsule collections with unexpected partners like Lenny Kravitz, Goop, Fred Segal and most recently, Kara Mann. In this episode, he chats with host Dennis Scully about why CB2 is hoping to do more business with interior designers, what lessons he takes from Ralph Lauren, and why, pandemic or no, brick and mortar retail will always be part of the equation. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Universal Furniture.

Retelling the story of leather with Sackett Wood of Moore & Giles Aug 31, 2020

Forty years ago, Moore & Giles was supplying the material to make shoes. But after the footwear industry disappeared abroad, the company reinvited itself and pivoted to the furniture business. Now, it’s a major force in the design industry, supplying leather to everyone from Universal to Steelcase to RH. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, president Sackett Wood tells host Dennis Scully why he’s reconsidering the impact of trade shows, what the next big market for his product is, and how he’s choosing to focus on leather as a sustainability product. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Universal Furniture.

The most famous wallpaper in the world with Katy Polsby of CW Stockwell Aug 24, 2020

You may not be familiar with the name CW Stockwell, but you know its most iconic pattern: Martinique, the banana leaf print that graces the walls of the Beverly Hills Hotel. Martinique was first released in 1942 - over the next eighty years it has become one of the world’s most recognizable wallpapers, but the company itself fell into neglect. Last year entrepreneur Katy Polsby relaunched the brand, and is in the process of bringing Martinique, alongside a fresh collection of patterns, to a new generation. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Polsby speaks with host Dennis Scully about how a career at West Elm, Serena & Lily and Warby Parker prepared her to be an entrepreneur, the legal challenges that come with owning a frequently copied pattern, and why she’s prioritizing a great website over showroom representation. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market and Paintzen.

Designing the White House with Michael S. Smith Aug 17, 2020

There are dream clients, and then there’s the young family that interior designer Michael S. Smith helped settle in at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue back in 2008. As the official decorator of the Obama White House, he not only had a front row seat to history, but became a part of it—an experience Smith recounts in a new book coming out this Fall. In this episode of The Business of Home podcast, he chats with host Dennis Scully about how he landed the president as a client, the secret code he used to refer to the Obamas, and the unique challenges that come with designing America’s most famous house. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market and Paintzen.

Jill Cohen made your favorite design book Aug 10, 2020

If you’ve fallen in love with an interior design book over the past twenty years, chances are Jill Cohen had something to do with it. A veteran publishing executive who started Conde Nast’s book program, she’s now an independent advisor who helps designers package their work—and themselves—for publication. Cohen’s client list reads like a hall of fame induction roster: she’s shepherded everyone from Bunny Williams, Ellie Cullman and Stephen Sills to Bobby McAlpine, Gil Schafer and Aerin Lauder through the process of creating a compelling book. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Cohen tells host Dennis Scully about the surprising economics behind design book publishing, how the rise of celebrity culture changed the industry, and all the ways that Instagram can be a trap for designers. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market and Paintzen.

How performance fabric took over the world with Ann Sutherland of Perennials Aug 03, 2020

In the late 90s, Ann Sutherland went from long-time interior designer to first-time entrepreneur. Alongside her husband, outdoor furniture magnate David Sutherland, she developed a line of solution-dyed acrylics that combined the resilience of outdoor fabrics with the high style of to-the-trade design. Her company, Perennials, grew in leaps and bounds, and the success of the company helped usher in a new era, in which performance fabrics are used both outdoors and in. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Sutherland speaks with host Dennis Scully about the rocky early days, Perennials’ relationship with Restoration Hardware, and what new product represents the future of her company. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market and Paintzen.

Mikel Welch on bridging the gap between TV and high end design Jul 27, 2020

The world of high-end design can feel very far apart from the big-tent appeal of home makeover shows, but interior designer Mikel Welch has managed to break through in both. His work has been featured in premier showhouses around the country, and he’s a regular on TV, with appearances on everything from TLC’s Trading Spaces to Good Morning America to a new show for Quibi with a premise that has to be seen to be believed. On this episode of the podcast, he chats with host Dennis Scully about his circuitous career path, the surprising economics of design on TV, and the industry’s long-overdue reckoning with race. This episode is sponsored by The Urban Electric Company.

Retail is broken. Michele Varian and Jay Norris aim to fix it Jul 20, 2020

Michele Varian and Jay Norris are the founders of Guesst, a tech platform that allows brands, retailers and landlords to connect in new ways. In addition to being an entrepreneur, Michele is also the owner of a beloved New York design shop that she recently relocated from SoHo to Brooklyn to escape skyrocketing rents. As a broker in the commercial real estate world, Jay saw the rent crises unfold from the other side of the table. Together with host Dennis Scully, they discuss what effect out-of-control rents have had on the design world, why the internet broke the wholesale model, and how COVID-19 will reset the retail equation. This episode is sponsored by The Urban Electric Company.

Breaking down the cost of fabric with Stephane Silverman of Castel Jul 13, 2020

Stephane Silverman literally grew up in the fabric business—his parents brought the French textile company Boussac to America, and as a child, he would do his homework in their D&D Building showroom. A restless intellect and a critical thinker, Silverman has been experimenting with ways to modernize a distinctly old-school industry ever since he started Castel in 1999. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he gives host Dennis Scully a whirlwind tour through the past, present and future of fabric, explaining why the Amazon version of e-commerce doesn’t work for interior design, the future of showrooms, and the surprising reason why a yard of fabric costs what it does. This episode is sponsored by Henrybuilt and Industry West.

How R. Hughes became the coolest showroom in America Jul 06, 2020

Ryan Hughes and Steven Leonard are the creative team behind Atlanta showroom R. Hughes. In a time when some in the industry are questioning the multiline model, Ryan and Steven have created a destination that does everything showrooms are supposed to do—showcase product in new ways, inspire designers, and draw visitors from near and far. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, they tell host Dennis Scully why they moved from a new development to a design center, the importance of putting their own brand first, and how everything from hardwood flooring to the right Spotify playlist can make all the difference. This episode is sponsored by Henrybuilt's Primary Objects and Industry West.

Brad Hargreaves, founder of Common: Co-living will outlast COVID Jun 29, 2020

This week’s guest is Brad Hargreaves, the founder of co-living company Common. Co-living is a relatively new phenomenon, sometimes oversimplified as “dorms for grownups.” But there’s a lot more to it than that, and in conversation with host Dennis Scully, Hargreaves explains the demographic changes and economic forces that have created a market for shared housing—at any age. In the first half of the episode, he discusses the similarities between education and real estate, why developers are getting tired of luxury housing, and how COVID might disrupt commercial real estate in unexpected ways. This episode is sponsored by Buildlane and The Urban Electric Co.

Goodee's founders think the time has come for an ethical design marketplace Jun 22, 2020

Dexter and Byron Peart are the founders of Goodee—an e-commerce site focused on design products and home goods with an ethical mission. The Pearts are twin brothers and lifelong entrepreneurs—they created the renowned fashion and accessories brand WANT Les Essentials before selling it in 2017. For their latest endeavor, they wanted to focus on selling products that are not only beautiful, but good too—and to tap into a growing audience known as the conscious consumer. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, the Pearts chat with host Dennis Scully about whether the mission or the design comes first, how the coronavirus has changed online shopping, and what makes a product good enough for Goodee. This episode is sponsored by Buildlane and The Urban Electric Company.

How will real estate bounce back from COVID-19? Jun 15, 2020

It’s hard to think of two fields more closely intertwined than interior design and real estate—where one goes, so goes the other. On this week’s episode of the podcast, host Dennis Scully chats with two real estate experts to hear about how COVID-19 has affected the housing market, and what comes next. First, Leonard Steinberg, a veteran agent and the chief evangelist for tech-enabled brokerage Compass, discusses whether people will really flee cities en masse. Then, Shaun Osher, the founder of boutique real estate marketing firm Core, shares some insight into what the homes of tomorrow will look like. This episode is sponsored by Buildlane.

Knoll CEO Andrew Cogan: The office isn't going anywhere Jun 08, 2020

Andrew Cogan’s history with Knoll stretches back thirty years—he’s been with the company through changes of ownership, recessions, and now a pandemic. On this episode of the Business of Home podcas, Cogan chats with host Dennis Scully about how his strategy to move into residential categories is paying off, Knoll’s commitment to social responsibility, and why—despite what people are saying—it’s too soon to write an obituary for the office. This episode is sponsored by Buildlane and Industry West.

Alexandra Champalimaud and CEO Ed Bakos on reinventing their firm Jun 01, 2020

Over the course of almost forty years, the name Alexandra Champalimaud has become synonymous with exceptional hospitality design—her firm has worked on the finest hotels in the world, from The Plaza in New York to the Bel-Air in Los Angeles to the recently completed Raffles in Singapore. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, host Dennis Scully speaks to Champalimaud as well as the CEO of her firm, Ed Bakos. They discuss bringing a hospitality approach to residential design, the surprising way that Zoom meetings are making designers more creative, and why it’s important to react, not overreact, to the coronavirus pandemic. This episode is sponsored by Buildlane and Industry West.

Ken Fulk always starts with a story May 25, 2020

Calling Ken Fulk an “interior designer” doesn’t do him justice—Fulk’s San Francisco firm does everything from weekly floral arrangements to branding to planning extravagant events, complete with costumes, fireworks and mariachi bands. For the right client, he’ll even design a wedding—famously, he created a theatrical fairy-tale experience for early Facebook president Sean Parker. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Fulk speaks with host Dennis Scully about what silicon valley moguls want from interior design, why he’s been taking ownership stakes in his projects, and what lessons he’s learning from the era of social distancing. This episode is sponsored by Dedon and High Point Market.

Publishing in a pandemic: Leaders at Apartment Therapy, Domino and Luxe react to COVID-19 May 18, 2020

It was already a tough time for magazines and digital publications—now, with advertisers on the run, and new challenges, like socially distanced photoshoots, it’s even tougher. But editors and publishers are finding ways to tackle the problems of the moment, and with their fingers on the pulse of the industry, they know better than anyone what matters most right now. In conversations with Apartment Therapy’s Maxwell Ryan, Domino’s Tracy Cho, and Luxe’s Pamela Jaccarino, host Dennis Scully takes a look at how the design media is coping with COVID-19. This episode is sponsored by DEDON and High Point Market.

The man who makes everything: Rochdale Spears's Geoff Hawkes May 11, 2020

You may not know Geoff Hawkes by name, but you know his furniture. For almost two decades, his manufacturing company, Rochdale Spears, has combined high-end craftsmanship with production at scale, making collections for retailers like RH, Anthropologie, and Williams Sonoma—as well as luxury hotels, and the company’s own line, Sonder Living. In this episode of the podcast, Hawkes speaks with host Dennis Scully about everything from how RH became such a phenomenon to what the coronavirus will mean for the design industry. This episode is sponsored by DEDON and Industry West.

Herman Miller's new president on the past, present and future of retail May 04, 2020

Debbie Propst joined the furnishings giant Herman Miller as president of retail this January, after seven years at One Kings Lane—within a matter of weeks, her roadmap for the company hit an unexpected snag. But Debbie’s team has been pivoting to address the disruption of the coronavirus, fast-tracking digital efforts and looking for opportunities amidst the uncertainty. On this episode of the podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about her time at One Kings Lane; the past and future of retail; and what it’s like to start a new leadership role in the midst of a crisis. This episode is sponsored by DEDON and Industry West.

"Nimble, humble and aggressive." How one design firm is navigating the pandemic. Apr 27, 2020

Andrew’s Kotchen’s design and architecture firm, Workshop/APD, has always taken a creative and thoughtful approach to business—and a pandemic is no exception. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Kotchen speaks with host Dennis Scully about how the crisis has changed his preconceived notions about company culture, what lessons he learned from the 2008 recession, and what opportunities might emerge from this uncertain time. This episode was sponsored by Rebecca Atwood Designs and Universal Furniture.

Manufacturing in a pandemic Apr 20, 2020

As COVID-19 continues to spread, stay-at-home orders, disrupted supply chains and a rattled marketplace all present unique challenges for the companies that produce our industry’s finest products. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, host Dennis Scully speaks to a range of leaders to hear how they’re tackling the difficulties of this unprecedented time: Jonathan Glatt of handmade furniture company O&G studio, Sara Fritsch of lighting and lifestyle brand Schoolhouse and Andrew Crone of North Carolina furniture maker Chaddock. This episode was sponsored by Universal Furniture and Rebecca Atwood Designs.

How to survive a recession Apr 13, 2020

It’s too soon to say precisely what the economic fallout from COVID-19 will be, but many in the design industry are preparing for a challenging time. This week on the Business of Home podcast, host Dennis Scully speaks with two people who made it through the 2008 downturn to get some perspective on what may lie ahead. First, interior designer Corey Damen Jenkins shares the story about how he started his firm in the midst of that financial crisis. Then, financial advisor Jared Miller discusses how he helped top design firms survive the era. This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Atwood Designs and Universal Furniture.

Kyle Bunting goes it alone Apr 06, 2020

Kyle Bunting began his decorative hide rug business in 2001, and the product took the market by storm—soon his inventive creations were in showhouses, magazines and the best showrooms across the country. But recently Kyle made the decision to pull out of all representation and sell direct to designers. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he chats with host Dennis Scully about the story behind his unique company, and talked about the opportunities—and challenges—of going independent. This episode is sponsored by Rebecca Atwood Designs and Universal Furniture.

Peter Dunham on serendipity and staying positive Mar 30, 2020

Raised in France, educated in England, and currently based in Los Angeles, interior designer Peter Dunham has had a charmed life and career—to chat with him is to take a rollicking tour from the grit and glamour of 1970s New York, to early career advice from David Hicks, to a showhouse kitchen that led to nabbing Jennifer Garner as a client. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he speaks with host Dennis Scully about his renowned shop, Hollywood at Home; what effect Restoration Hardware has had on American taste, and why, despite these troubling times, he’s staying optimistic. This episode is sponsored by Henrybuilt and Buildlane.

The design industry reacts to COVID-19 Mar 23, 2020

The spread of COVID-19 has created no small amount of uncertainty in the world, and the design community is no exception. On today’s episode of the Business of Home podcast, host Dennis Scully speaks to leaders in the design industry to find out how they plan to navigate the choppy waters, and what we can expect once we’re in the clear. This episode was sponsored by Buildlane and Henrybuilt.

Chic & Awe is bringing laughter back to design Mar 16, 2020

Sara Ruffin Costello and Chassie Post are the dynamic duo behind Chic & Awe, a new home tour video series that brings a much-needed dose of surreal humor into the world of high end design. Sara and Chassie are veterans of the design media world, having both worked on the original incarnation of Domino, then gone on to contribute to everything from The New York Times to Good Morning America. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, they spoke with host Dennis Scully about why we’re in the era of the solo artist, why decorating is harder than it looks, and how their show is bringing comic relief to the home industry. This episode is sponsored by Buildlane and Henrybuilt.

Marc Thee on how to scale an interior design firm Mar 09, 2020

If you’ve spent any time in South Florida, you’re likely already familiar with Marc Thee’s work. Over the past 35 years the co-founder of Marc-Michaels has become one of the region’s most celebrated interior designers, and in an industry where most firms stop growing at a staff of ten, he oversees seventy, taking on projects all over the world. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Thee speaks with host Dennis Scully about why he tells his staff not to think like designers, how mentorship means letting go, and why the client’s perception is the only thing that matters. A special thank you to Dedon for hosting the conversation in front of a live audience at the Design Center of the Americas. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market and Buildlane.

A glimpse into the future with trend forecaster Piers Fawkes Mar 02, 2020

Piers Fawkes' job is, quite literally to see the future. The founder of consumer forecasting agency PSFK collects innovations from around the world and identifies patterns, which he then formulates into trend reports for a clientele of blue chip companies like Target, Apple, and Johnson & Johnson. Recently, Fawkes has been focusing on what home will look like in 2030, and some of his research has led to ideas that may seem unconventional and even a little dystopian—but the future always sounds strange, until it’s here. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market and Buildlane.

The maker movement shifts into high gear Feb 24, 2020

Dave Dawson, founder of the Urban Electric Company, and Scott Hudson, founder of Henrybuilt, are leaders of a modern makers renaissance—one that’s seeing an increasing number of companies manufacture high-end custom pieces right here in the United States. In front of a live audience at Henrybuilt’s showroom in New York, they spoke with host Dennis Scully about why they both say no to multi-line showrooms, the Toyota method, and how Dawson’s organization, the makers alliance, is creating a community for like-minded companies. This episode is sponsored by Buildlane and Dedon.

Cheryl Eisen and the secrets of staging Feb 17, 2020

The woman behind home staging firm Interior Marketing Group, Cheryl Eisen, has been building her empire over the last decade. This self-made CEO started the IMG brand as a solo-entrepreneur, and now oversees a hundred-person operation. On this episode, Eisen sat down with host Dennis Scully about why home staging is the exact opposite of interior design, why she’s not afraid of a recession, and how, as her company moves into making product, her 170 staged apartments are as good as 170 showrooms.. This episode is sponsored by BuildLane and Dedon.

Kathryn M. Ireland is always looking for the next thing Feb 10, 2020

It’s difficult to concisely sum up interior designer Kathryn M. Ireland’s charmed career —she’s been everything from an art director for music videos to a shop-owner, interior decorator, fabric designer and TV Star. Most recently she’s become an entrepreneur, founding e-design and e-commerce startup The Perfect Room, which she hopes will bring high design to a broader audience (her partner, CEO Michael O’Neal, joins the discussion for the second half of this episode). On this episode, Ireland spoke with host Dennis Scully about the role that serendipity has played in her career, how she turned the recession into an opportunity, and why being an interior designer is a lifestyle as much as it is a profession. This episode is sponsored by BuildLane and Dedon.

Sheila Bridges is always reinventing herself Feb 03, 2020

Designer and author Sheila Bridges started her career in fashion, but soon found her true calling in interiors, where she rose to prominence and went on to host one of the first TV shows dedicated to high end design. Over the span of two decades, she’s authored several books, worked with celebrity clients including former president Bill Clinton, and created the renowned pattern Harlem Toile du Jouy. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast she spoke with host Dennis Scully about how boundaries between disciplines are breaking down, diversity and inclusion in the design world, and why relationships are the most important part of the business. This podcast is sponsored by Buildlane and Dedon.

[Rebroadcast] Bunny Williams on navigating change Jan 27, 2020

As Bunny Williams Home celebrates its 10-year anniversary, founder and renowned interior designer Bunny Williams is in search of new ways to remain relevant—from both design and retail perspectives. While that may mean bolstering the digital brand and focusing on online sales, Williams’s general design philosophies remain similar to those she learned at Parish-Hadley, the legendary New York firm where she spent 22 years prior to launching her own studio. The AD100 Hall of Fame designer shares the challenges of finding and retaining talent, why the modern lifestyle is disruptive to the trade and the announcement of a new book, Affairs with Other Houses.

[Rebroadcast] Nina Campbell on how the interior design profession has changed Jan 13, 2020

If there’s anyone who fits the model of a great mentor, it’s British interior designer Nina Campbell. Shaped by her apprenticeship at renowned firm Colefax & Fowler, Campbell has gone on to create a nearly five-decade career in design, establishing a star-studded client list that includes Rod Stewart, Ringo Starr and the Duke and Duchess of York. In this live podcast recording, the designer shares insights from her inspiring career, as well as her take on how the industry and the profession have evolved.

[Rebroadcast] Becoming Holly Hunt Jan 06, 2020

Holly Hunt made headlines four years ago when she sold her eponymous company to Knoll for $95 million. But it’s never been about the money for the Texas-born designer, who started her business as a recently-divorced mother of three boys in 1983—without "a big hairy plan." She built what was then a new concept: a multi-line showroom, bringing on makers like Carl Springer, Jim Thompson and Rose Tarlow before designing and manufacturing her own line. In this episode, she shares the ups and downs of the last 30 years—from designer Christian Liagre's departure to adjusting to life post-acquisition, and what the future holds.

[Rebroadcast] How Ralph Pucci Became the Master of Visual Merchandising Dec 30, 2019

Whether it’s preserving his iconic mannequin label or curating his next gallery exhibition, Ralph Pucci leads by one rule: “If everyone’s going left, I’m going right.” It worked in 1985, when Pucci successfully debuted the collection of designer Andrée Putman with no industry experience, and it continues to work today, as the company now boasts galleries in New York, Los Angeles and Miami. In this week’s episode, Pucci takes us through the remarkable timeline of Ralph Pucci International and reveals his visual merchandising secrets.

Holland & Sherry's Bryan Dicker on working with what you've got Dec 23, 2019

Bryan Dicker began at Holland & Sherry when it was purely in the apparel business, offering tweeds, wools and cashmere to individual tailors. He developed a sideline selling fabric to interior designers, which has since grown into a robust business, employing 150 people at over twenty locations worldwide. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Dicker spoke with host Dennis Scully about building a team around your weaknesses, what Blackjack has to do with the fabric industry, and why his company has no plans to go direct to consumers. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Google.

Kate Verner on how licensing works now Dec 16, 2019

Over the course of nearly twenty years as an advisor on licensing deals and business strategy, Kate Verner has worked with some of the most prominent names in the industry, including David Easton, Laura Kirar and Arteriors. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, she speaks with host Dennis Scully about why licensing isn’t a get rich quick proposition, the need to make manufacturing cool again, and why Instagram fame doesn’t always translate to real world sales. This episode was sponsored by Chairish and Google.

David Netto on a life in design Dec 09, 2019

As a child, David Netto became immersed in the world of design through his father, who owned storied fabric house Cowtan & Tout. After dropping out of Harvard Architecture School, he found his true calling, building a brilliant career as a decorator and writer for The New York Times, Town & Country, and the Wall Street Journal. For this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Netto spoke with host Dennis Scully in front of a live audience at the New York School of Interior Design as part of the Dialogues on Design series. They chatted about why Instagram’s rise is good for books, how the AIDS crisis affected design, and what a Bugati owned by Ralph Lauren says about how decorators should think. This episode was sponsored by Chairish and Google.

What's the future of design centers? Dec 02, 2019

Six years ago, the real estate development firm Jamestown purchased the Boston Design Center and began a long-term project to revitalize the space by turning it into a hybrid. Now the building combines trade-only showrooms with retail shops, corporate offices, cafes and restaurants. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, the president of Jamestown, Michael Phillips, discusses why the design industry needs to start reaching out to consumers, why showrooms should consider nighttime hours, and why disruption is ultimately a good thing. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Google.

Carleton Varney on a colorful career Nov 25, 2019

Over the course of a storied career, legendary interior decorator Carleton Varney has worked with everyone from Joan Crawford to Jimmy Carter—not to mention his 37 books, a long-running newspaper column, and a project he’s been tweaking for over 50 years, the Greenbrier hotel. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Varney speaks with host Dennis Scully about the stories behind some of his most famous clients, why he encourages students to think beyond beige and gray, and the one line of a client contract that only Dorothy Draper could get away with. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Google.

From artists to entrepreneurs: The founders of Fort Street Studio share their story Nov 18, 2019

Janis Provisor and Brad Davis were established artists, displaying their work in museums and galleries across the world. Then a recession hit in the nineties, and they took a sabbatical in China, which led to an experiment with silk weaving, which, 25 years later, has led to an acclaimed luxury hand-knotted carpet company. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Provisor and Davis chat with host Dennis Scully about the ups and downs of doing business in China, why they needed to create their own brand, and treating entrepreneurship like an artistic challenge. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Google.

Charlotte Moss is a legend, not a brand Nov 11, 2019

Across the scope of a storied career, legendary interior designer Charlotte Moss has written ten books, won numerous awards, and through her work on countless projects, defined an elegant take on traditional style. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, she chats with host Dennis Scully about learning sales secrets on Wall Street, the importance of mentorship, and what she looks for when she Googles potential clients. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Google.

Think the fabric industry will change overnight? Not so fast Nov 04, 2019

Fabric industry veteran David Klaristenfeld has spent sixteen busy years at Fabricut, but 2019 has been particularly eventful. This summer, his company acquired Clarence House, and has ramped up a whirlwind effort to grow the boutique fabric brand. Their first big move? Pulling the collection offline, so it can’t be sold to the general public—only designers. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Klaristenfeld chats with host Dennis Scully about the strategy behind the acquisition, the challenging economics of sampling, and why, despite a lot of noise, the industry isn’t going to change as radically as some people think. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Google.

Food52 conquered the kitchen. The rest of the home is next. Oct 28, 2019

Founded as an online resource for recipes in 2009, Food52 has evolved into a unique and wildly popular hybrid of editorial content and e-commerce that recently attracted an $83 million dollar investment from The Chernin Group. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, host Dennis Scully chats with co-founders Merrill Stubbs and Amanda Hesser about why their site defies easy categorization, how their readers helped them design one of their bestselling products, and why they prefer to think of Food52 as a world, not a brand. This episode is sponsored by Chairish and Google.

Elle Decor’s Whitney Robinson wants to solve design’s image problem Oct 21, 2019

Whitney Robinson, the editor in chief of Elle Decor, is a young man, but he's already a veteran of the publishing industry. Having risen through the ranks at Hearst titles like House Beautiful and Town & Country, Robinson assumed the top spot at ED in 2017—and this month, he’s captained the book to its 30th anniversary. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he chats with host Dennis Scully about about how designers and developers can partner up, what it takes to be featured in the pages of his magazine, and why he publishes with an audience of 140 in mind. This episode is sponsored by Crypton and Chairish.

Rebecca Atwood is setting her own pace Oct 14, 2019

Rebecca Atwood started small. The RISD-educated textile designer began by creating a line of pillows out of her own apartment, dyeing fabrics in a tiny kitchen. Over the past five years she's grown considerably, with a full line of textiles and wallpapers, a SOHO showroom, and two books to her name—but she's done it at her own pace. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Atwood tells host Dennis Scully about building her business step by step, why she opened up her accounting books to her employees, and why her showroom wouldn't fit in at the D&D Building—but that's a good thing. This episode is sponsored by Crypton and Chairish.

Christofle's new CEO is thinking big Oct 07, 2019

Before coming to Christofle, Nathalie Remy was a McKinsey consultant for over two decades, advising luxury and fashion houses on corporate strategy. Now she's on the other side of the table, a year into a revitalization and rebranding project for the 190-year-old French tabletop company. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, she spoke with host Dennis Scully about about teaching a heritage brand to think like a startup, why she's betting on sharing, and what Pharrell Williams has to do with her strategy. This episode is sponsored by Crypton and Chairish.

Cheryl Durst of IIDA: Design is more than just Instagrammable moments Sep 30, 2019

Cheryl Durst, the CEO of the International Interior Design Association, has been a lifelong evangelist for the power of design—she even got married in a design center. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, she chatted with host Dennis Scully about the need for a shared language around pricing, how residential designers can break into commercial projects, and the surprising reason why HGTV is a force for good. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market and Crypton.

Havenly’s Lee Mayer wants to expand the audience for design Sep 23, 2019

Lee Mayer began by trying to get other people to start her company. It was 2013 and she needed a quick, affordable design service to help with a new home in Denver—a reluctant entrepreneur, it took a push from Mayer’s sister to get her to found the company herself. Six years later, Havenly has outlasted many of its competitors in the world of online design, and Mayer continues to innovate the model. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, she shares her startup journey, discusses the difficulties of scaling a high-touch business, and explains how her company is priming a whole new audience to the benefits of great design. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market and Crypton.

Ryan Korban: Designers should think more like brands Sep 16, 2019

Interior designer Ryan Korban began his career creating stores for fashion brands like Aquazurra and Balenciaga. After moving into the residential world, the young designer's star rose rapidly—he now boasts a roster of celebrity clients and a growing sideline working with real estate developers. On the latest episode of the Business of Home Podcast, Korban chatted with host Dennis Scully in front of a lively crowd at the EJ Victor showroom in the New York Design Center—they spoke about the difference between fashion and design, the future of trade pricing, and why designers should think more like brands. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

Poshmark has built an audience of 40 million for fashion. What can it do in the home? Sep 09, 2019

After nearly a decade of building a community of 40 million that buys, sells and shares fashion online, Poshmark co-founder Tracy Sun is moving the company into the home. On the latest episode of the Business of Home podcast, Sun chats with host Dennis Scully about why the power is in consumers' hands now, the overlap between fashion and interior design, and what being customer centric actually means. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

The Urban Electric Company's Dave Dawson is betting on good design Aug 26, 2019

Dave Dawson started The Urban Electric Company as a small retail business in 2002—it’s since grown into a powerhouse of modern American craftsmanship, employing over 200 to make a wide array of custom lighting fixtures, all in a former navy yard in Charleston, South Carolina. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Dawson chats with host Dennis Scully about the challenges of manufacturing in America, why he’s never sold in showrooms, and how time has become his company’s most valuable resource. This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture.

Christopher Peacock's leaps of faith Aug 19, 2019

After a picturesque childhood in England and a brief career as a drummer, Christopher Peacock chanced into the cabinetry business and he hasn't looked back since. The company he founded in 1992 has been through some twists and turns, but today it's stronger than ever, with nine showrooms and a booming commercial sideline. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Peacock shares the incredible story of how his company survived the 2008 recession, why he's been vertically integrated from day one, and how became known as the inventor of the white kitchen. This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture.

From suburban castles to Hudson Yards: Tony Ingrao's epic career Aug 12, 2019

Tony Ingrao's clients—a mix of celebrities, financiers and captains of industry—often make headline news, but he himself is more likely found just outside the limelight. "I'm chill," he tells Dennis Scully, with a laugh. Chill yes, boring no. In this week’s episode of the Business of Home podcast, the designer shares a rare in-depth look at an epic career—discussing his fashion-world childhood, the stories behind his most iconic projects, and why, after nearly 40 years in design, he's at the top of his game. This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture.

Chad Stark on the innovation mindset Aug 05, 2019

After a brief post-college career in the startup world, Chad Stark joined the family business as a young man, eager to modernize Stark Carpet’s operations for a fast-changing market. He’s since risen to senior vice president of the 80-year-old company, and has continuously pushed for innovation in an industry that’s often reluctant to change. On the latest episode of the Business of Home podcast, Stark tells host Dennis Scully about his experiments selling direct to consumers, his thoughts on the best way for designers to charge for their services, and whether the design industry is ready for a model called "trade preferred". This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture.

Why it's always a great day at Phillip Jeffries Jul 29, 2019

In the early aughts, brothers Philip and Jeffrey Bershad took over the family wallcovering business from their father and have since grown it to employ one hundred and sixty people with operations all over the world. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, they spoke with host Dennis Scully about their work hard/play hard company culture, the advantages of focusing on a niche, and why something called WIPTAG has made all the difference. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

Feather’s Jay Reno on why the time is right for subscription furniture Jul 22, 2019

It’s a commonly cited statistic: Moving is more stressful than divorce. And—chasing freedom and flexibility—millennials are moving a whole lot. Jay Reno, founder and CEO of Feather, is hoping to make it easier on them with a service that offers furniture on a subscription, pay-as-you-go basis. In the latest episode of the Business of Home podcast, Reno spoke with host Dennis Scully about how the American dream has changed, why the time is right for his innovative concept, and the environmental impact of fast furniture. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

Vicente Wolf reflects on 45 years in the industry Jul 15, 2019

After fleeing Cuba with his family as a child, Vicente Wolf had anything but a traditional path to building a 45-year run as a designer. On the latest episode of the Business of Home podcast, Wolf reflects on his unconventional journey, the role of design media in his career, and why he’s not retiring any time soon. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

Angie’s List founder Angie Hicks on the importance of the ‘trust factor’ Jul 08, 2019

In 1995, Angie Hicks lent her name to her new company, a service that crowdsourced reviews of local businesses. “It seemed like one of those inconsequential decisions you make when you’re 22,” says Hicks. It turned out to be anything but inconsequential, as her company, Angie’s List, would become a household name and a major player in the home services industry. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, she talks with host Dennis Scully about the company’s humble beginnings in 1995, why the housing crisis was an opportunity in disguise, and how the interior design profession has changed over the years. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

Samuel & Sons' Michael Cohen thinks the trade will thrive—if it gets more transparent Jul 01, 2019

Twenty years ago, Michael Cohen left a career in corporate finance to join the family business, a somewhat old-school seller of high-end tassels and trims. Cohen, along with his brothers Hymie and Joseph, has turned Samuel & Sons into a thriving, tech-forward business that’s come to define passementerie for the American market. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he chats with host Dennis Scully about why he looks to tech companies like Amazon for inspiration, his plan to take the brand international, and why he hopes the industry will become more transparent. This episode is sponsored by Datacolor.

Amanda Lindroth on the challenges of turning a design business into a brand Jun 24, 2019

Nassau-based interior designer Amanda Lindroth has a knack for evoking the breezy elegance of island life, wherever she goes—including Guangzhou, China. A few years ago, she and her CEO, Austin Painter, embarked on a road trip to various factories in Asia to produce her debut line of accessories and decor. Since then, she’s been busy, fine-tuning her collection and growing her brand. In the latest episode of the Business of Home podcast, she chats with host Dennis Scully about her picturesque Florida upbringing, her hiring strategy, and why it’s not what goes wrong—it’s how you react that’s most important. This episode is sponsored by Datacolor.

East Fork is quietly challenging the direct-to-consumer playbook Jun 17, 2019

Ceramics are having a moment, and East Fork is at the center of it. Founded by husband-and-wife team Connie and Alex Matisse along with their friend John Vigeland, the North Carolina–based company has grown from a small rural pottery into a thriving manufacturer, shipping thousands of pieces around the world—including a coveted mug they literally can’t keep in stock. On the latest episode of the Business of Home podcast, host Dennis Scully spoke with the Matisses about creating a compelling brand in the social media age, avoiding growth for its own sake, and the challenges of building a values-focused business. This episode is sponsored by Datacolor.

Why The New Traditionalists' Philip Erdoes always plays offense Jun 10, 2019

Philip Erdoes is a study in contradictions. Though the founder of The New Traditionalists and ducduc spends his days occupied by the particulars of making high-end furniture, he came to the business via a career in law and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Erdoes isn’t afraid to speak his mind, whether he’s discussing copycat brands or hot-button political topics. In the latest episode of the Business of Home podcast, he chats with host Dennis Scully about why design for senior living is his next move, how market forces shape the trade, and why he’s keeping his manufacturing in the states. This episode is sponsored by Datacolor.

Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams on the secrets of a healthy partnership Jun 03, 2019

What began as a small upholstery company in a rural corner of North Carolina has grown into a furniture empire. Celebrating their 30th year in business, Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams now oversee a million square feet of manufacturing space, almost a thousand employees, and over thirty retail locations. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, the partners chat with host Dennis Scully about how they’ve grown through turbulent times, their hunt for a new CEO, and why their brand is well positioned for the next thirty years. This episode is sponsored by Design Within Reach.

Peter Sallick on how to future-proof design May 20, 2019

Peter Sallick doesn’t have a lot of free time. A restless innovator, savvy dealmaker and the wearer of many hats, being the CEO of Waterworks is only one of Sallick’s many roles. He also co-founded online marketplace Dering Hall and created one of the industry’s premier professional groups, the Design Leadership Network. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Sallick shares how Waterworks weathered the financial crisis, why he partnered with RH, and what lies ahead for a rapidly changing industry. This episode is sponsored by Design Within Reach.

Wendy Goodman and the power of yes May 13, 2019

Wendy Goodman is the poet laureate of Manhattan’s design world. As the longtime design editor of New York magazine, for decades she’s chronicled the lives and homes of the city’s most interesting people, alongside its most exciting artists and makers. On this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Goodman spoke with host Dennis Scully about her culture-rich childhood, working for Anna Wintour early on in both their careers, and why sometimes the best job is the one you’re most afraid of. This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at Design Within Reach’s new Upper West Side studio. Sponsored by Design Within Reach.

Kit Kemp on why designers should stick to their guns May 06, 2019

For over thirty years, interior designer Kit Kemp has been at the forefront of the boutique hospitality revolution, bringing color, craft and vibrant design to hotels and restaurants on both sides of the Atlantic. As co-owner and creative director of Firmdale Hotels, Kemp is behind London’s Ham Yard, Covent Garden and Haymarket hotels, as well as the Crosby Street and the Whitby in New York. She has also created fragrances, furniture and fabric and authored several books, most recently Design Thread. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Kemp tells host Dennis Scully about her love of artisans and antiques, the key to a compelling hotel, and why designers shouldn’t always listen to their accountants. This episode is sponsored by Design Within Reach.

Jack Lenor Larsen defined the 20th century textile industry Apr 29, 2019

Not many designers can count Frank Lloyd Wright, Eero Saarinen and Marilyn Monroe as clients, but Jack Lenor Larsen is no ordinary designer. A legend of the textile business, Larsen started his own studio in New York in 1952. His vivid early work convinced a once-skeptical Florence Knoll, who commissioned Larsen to create fabric for her furniture. From then on, Larsen’s business and reputation grew and grew. Drawing on extensive travels around the globe, he introduced ikat and batik to the American public, designed upholstery for Pan Am, authored over a dozen books and championed traditional craft wherever he went. Today, his work is studied in textbooks and displayed in museums around the world. At 92, Larsen has a lifetime's worth of stories—in this episode of the Business of Home podcast, he shares a few of them. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store.

Sean Juneja of Décor Aid on why interior design can’t be Uber-ized Apr 22, 2019

After 20 years in finance, Sean Juneja decided to risk his stable career to found Décor Aid, a start-up that offers clients an entry point into the world of professional interior design. Born out of a lifelong passion for design and his belief that there was a gap in the market for smaller budget projects, Décor Aid has facilitated more than 3,000 jobs in New York alone since its founding in 2014. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Juneja discusses his platform’s astounding growth, why he turned down venture capital and how he views the competition. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store.

Bernie de Le Cuona’s “unpopular ideas” may be just what the industry needs Apr 15, 2019

Bernie de Le Cuona’s fabric company had humble beginnings—in the early 1990s, she launched the business out of her own home after learning to weave in India. Since then, her namesake company has grown by leaps and bounds, with flagship showrooms in New York and London and a network of distributors worldwide. De Le Cuona has come a long way, but she hasn't stopped moving forward. The founder and CEO is constantly tweaking her business model, looking for ways to stay on top of a constantly shifting industry. She sat down to chat with host Dennis Scully about why some of her so-called "unpopular ideas" may be just what the industry needs. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store.

Christophe Caillaud on the challenges of succession at Liaigre Apr 08, 2019

By the time he was 32, Christophe Caillaud had abandoned a promising career in mergers and acquisitions to become the managing director of Jean Paul Gaultier. After nine years at the fashion house, he was tapped by French interior designer Christian Liaigre to become the president of his namesake brand. In this week’s edition of the Business of Home podcast, Caillaud sat down with host Dennis Scully to talk about the difficulties of succession, why he watches RH closely, and how he plans to compete in an industry increasingly driven by e-commerce. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store.

Bobby Berk has paid his dues Apr 01, 2019

Now famous to millions as the resident design expert on Netflix hit Queer Eye, Bobby Berk left home at a young age, eventually ending up in New York with only a suitcase and a few months rent money to his name. In the city, he climbed his way through the ranks of retail, working at RH and Portico before opening his own store in 2007. A decade later, Berk was invited to audition for a reboot of the aughts Bravo hit—the rest is history. Berk shares tales from his early days, discusses his new furniture line and lifestyle site, and explains why Queer Eye isn't a makeover show. This episode is sponsored by The Shade Store.

Jamie Drake takes it personally Mar 25, 2019

In 1978, Jamie Drake graduated from Parsons and fell right into two plum gigs designing apartments in 800 Fifth Avenue—the same building where newlyweds Donald and Ivana Trump were just settling in. Since then, things have only gotten better for Drake, who has won every industry award under the sun, participated in every showhouse and created homes for more than a few billionaires. In this week’s episode of the Business of Home podcast, he explains why legacy doesn’t matter, why China is the next big market for designers, and how he landed Michael Bloomberg as a client. This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture.

David Sutherland on where opportunity exists today Mar 18, 2019

Since opening his first multi-line showroom more than 40 years ago, David Sutherland has had a front-row seat to industry shifts and emerging opportunities. The Dallas-based entrepreneur is a pioneer of the outdoor furniture category, and along with wife Ann, launched performance fabric maker Perennials. The industry veteran shares his take on selling direct to consumers, partnering with Restoration Hardware and the state of the multi-line showroom. This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture.

How Allied Maker went from woodworking garage to a $10 million business Mar 11, 2019

In less than a decade, Ryden and Lanette Rizzo have turned a humble woodworking studio into a $10 million business. Allied Maker, which launched in 2012 out of Ryden’s parents’ Long Island garage, has pierced the crowded lighting category, doubling its annual sales every year since 2016. The husband-and-wife co-founders reveal how they did it, the set-back moments endured along the way, and how they’re preparing for the next phase of growth. This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture.

How Catherine Connolly saved American textile maker Merida Mar 04, 2019

Catherine Connolly made the move from tech to textiles in 2007, when longtime Merida owner Dr. Hiram M. Samel asked her to join the Fall River, Massachusetts-based company as CEO. Six months within her new role, the stock market crashed and lost nearly half of the company’s revenue channels overnight. Connolly shares how she saved the company by restructuring its distribution model from retail to trade-only, as well as why she believes the internet is a great thing for the elevation of design—and why designers will be among its biggest benefactors. This episode is sponsored by Universal Furniture.

The Inside's Britt Bunn on meeting modern consumer expectations Feb 25, 2019

Bringing down the home industry’s barrier to entry has been the mission at The Inside since its launch in 2017. Doing so has meant meeting the expectations of the modern consumer, says co-founder and COO Britt Bunn. It’s a challenge few industry brands have dared to accept, considering the risks associated with offering personalization, free shipping and shortened lead times. Having recently closed $2.6 million in funding for The Inside, Bunn shares her thoughts on acquiring new customers and what’s next for the brand.

Nina Campbell on how the interior design profession has changed Feb 11, 2019

If there’s anyone who fits the model of a great mentor, it’s British interior designer Nina Campbell. Shaped by her apprenticeship at renowned firm Colefax & Fowler, Campbell has gone on to create a nearly five-decade career in design, establishing a star-studded client list that includes Rod Stewart, Ringo Starr and the Duke and Duchess of York. In this live podcast recording, the designer shares insights from her inspiring career, as well as her take on how the industry and the profession have evolved. This episode is sponsored by DCOTA.

Joanna Saltz explains her vision for the new House Beautiful Feb 04, 2019

When magazine veteran Joanna Saltz pitched the idea of a new home brand to Hearst executives, she had no idea she’d be spearheading a gut renovation of HouseBeautiful.com—a change that ruffled the feathers of many industry professionals. The editorial director, who’s since taken over House Beautiful’s print edition as well, addresses the audience feedback, reveals her strategy for the brand, and shares her thoughts on what media has to do to remain relevant. This episode is sponsored by DCOTA.

Inside Rifle Paper Co.’s next big phase of growth—into home Jan 28, 2019

Launched by illustrator Anna Bond and musician turned businessman Nathan Bond in 2009, Rifle Paper Co. has evolved from stationery maker to full-fledged lifestyle brand, gracing everything from Keds footwear to L’Occitane skincare, and, most recently, rugs and pillows by Loloi. Nine years in, the company has grown to 200 employees, 6,000 points of distribution globally and an annual revenue of $25 million. The husband-and-wife co-founders share the mistakes made and lessons learned along the way, and new brand president Trish Whalen adds how the company is planning for its next phase of growth. This episode is sponsored by DCOTA.

How Anna and Gregg Brockway became digital leaders in home Jan 21, 2019

When Anna and Gregg Brockway launched vintage and antique furniture e-marketplace Chairish, people told them consumers would never buy furniture online. Six years and roughly $30 million in funding later, the platform and its higher-end sister site, DECASO, receive more than 2,000 new items listed daily from a community of 10,000 sellers. With its recent acquisition of Dering Hall, Chairish Inc. is now one of the largest digital platforms for high-end home furnishing products with nearly half a million items across the three platforms. The Brockways share how the company that began at their dining room table has grown, what the Dering Hall acquisition means for its future, and what’s to come in the digitization of design. This episode is sponsored by DCOTA.

Ippolita Rostagno wants to save Italian craft with American-style entrepreneurship Jan 14, 2019

Acclaimed jewelry designer Ippolita Rostagno grew up in the Oltrarno neighborhood of Florence, a place where artisans have practiced their trades for centuries. When they began disappearing, she decided to do something about it. The result was Artemest, an e-commerce platform for Italian handcrafted home decor. Since the company’s founding in 2015, it has grown 100 percent year over year, now featuring over 500 makers selling their wares. In this episode of the Business of Home podcast, Rostagno discusses how she navigated the comically inefficient Italian bureaucracy, won over old-school Italian artists and artisans, and mastered problem solving with her hands.

Why Annie Selke values company culture above all else Jan 07, 2019

In 1994, Annie Selke began fine linens company Pine Cone Hill with an industrial sewing machine at her dining room table. Today, the company—which has since added rug maker Dash & Albert and an outlet store—has 221 employees, 50 of whom are based in India. With a perks package that includes weekly community-building events and financial bonuses for anniversary milestones, it’s no surprise that Annie Selke’s eponymous company is built largely on long-time employees and internal referrals. Selke discusses how she builds staff loyalty, the challenges of evaluating demand and why she’ll never sell product through Amazon.

Bunny Williams on navigating change Dec 17, 2018

As Bunny Williams Home celebrates its 10-year anniversary, founder and renowned interior designer Bunny Williams is in search of new ways to remain relevant—from both design and retail perspectives. While that may mean bolstering the digital brand and focusing on online sales, Williams’s general design philosophies remain similar to those she learned at Parish-Hadley, the legendary New York firm where she spent 22 years prior to launching her own studio. The AD100 Hall of Fame designer shares the challenges of finding and retaining talent, why the modern lifestyle is disruptive to the trade and the announcement of a new book, Affairs with Other Houses. This episode is sponsored by Business of Design.

How the Matouk family business evolved for the next generation Dec 10, 2018

Rumor has it there’s a curse against the third-generation business owner—one fed by outdated systems and a lack of product innovation. Yet the tale doesn’t hold true for George Matouk, who’s grown the textile company launched by his grandfather in 1929 to an annual revenue of more than $35 million. Managing new retail channels and category extensions has proven just as challenging as enduring nearly a century of economic and political shifts. I sat down with George to learn how Matouk coped—and came out stronger on the other side.

The surprising trait that's made Clodagh most successful Dec 03, 2018

When you don’t know the rules, it’s easier to break them. At least that’s the thinking of my guest this week, internationally renowned interior designer Clodagh. A self-taught designer who transitioned from fashion to interiors, the Ireland native is best known for her spiritual practices, minimalist style and some 20 product licenses, including partnerships with RH, Visual Comfort and Ann Sacks. In this week’s episode, Clodagh reveals the one trait that has made her most successful, the way she handles rude clients and how she finds zen—even in the back of a New York taxi cab. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Why Blu Dot wants to make good design democratic Nov 26, 2018

Making good design democratic has been at the core of modern furniture company Blu Dot since its founding in 1997. Co-founders John Christakos, Maurice Blanks and Charlie Lazor set out to create an American furniture company in an era when venture capital, attainable modern design and an assertive brand voice didn’t exist in the home industry. Twenty years later, Blu Dot’s forging efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. This year, the company celebrated its recognition as the Cooper Hewitt National Design Award winner for Product Design, as well the debut of a memoir chronicling the Minneapolis company’s pioneering journey. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Jonathan Adler “keeps it 100” about the struggles of running a creative business Nov 19, 2018

Jonathan Adler went from a potter teaching night classes to a retail mogul running seventeen retail locations, a wholesale and e-commerce business, and an ever-growing list of partnerships including a recent one with Amazon. “I went from being a dude [with] mud and a potter’s wheel to a dude with the world at my fingertips,” says Adler, who shares the defining moments of his career, the challenges that came with each, and what's next on his creative horizon. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Ethan Allen’s Farooq Kathwari on how to remain relevant Nov 12, 2018

One of the few vertically integrated furniture companies remaining in the industry, Ethan Allen has waded the challenges of a manufacturer and retailer. Chairman, president and CEO Farooq Kathwari has spent decades reshaping the Danbury, Connecticut-based furniture company’s production, retail and management strategies to compete in the global economy. Kathwari’s advice for each sector? Stay relevant. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Meet Sandow's Robot-Powered Designer Tool Ready to Disrupt the Home Industry Oct 01, 2018

It's an industry disruptor that’s been years in the making. Sample library Material Bank is one part digital platform, built to save designers time when searching and sampling materials, and one part robotic logistics and distribution facility. Founder and CEO Adam I. Sandow shares how the designer tool is setting new standards for lead time, accessibility and waste reduction that not even Amazon can compete with. This is the last episode of our first season. Episodes will resume in November.

How Brad Ford Cultivated a Community of Modern Makers Sep 24, 2018

Growing up in small town Arkansas, Brad Ford did not think of interior design as a career path until after college. He moved to New York on the recommendation of the one professional designer in town “with an office.” After design school, under the tutelage of Jed Johnson and Thad Hayes, he was able to hone his now-characteristic aesthetic of editing rather than layering. Editing is more than a style for Ford, but a philosophy that defines all of his endeavors: FAIR, Field and Supply, and his design firm. In this episode, he discusses the evolution of his businesses, and how Field and Supply, a culmination of his life’s work, brings him full circle.

BDDW’s Tyler Hays is the Uncle of the Maker Movement Sep 17, 2018

Whether it’s digging clay for his tile collection, harvesting barley for his brewery, painting and weaving textiles for his clothing line, milling high-end furniture for his showroom, or assembling musicians for a metal band, Tyler Hays is as hands-on with each of his hobbies-turned-businesses as you’d expect from a master craftsman. As a small-town high-school dropout with above-average sewing skills, he never imagined himself a businessman, much less a manager of 100 employees, tens of millions in revenue, and a celebrity-studded customer base. In this week’s episode, Hays shares his circuitous journey from rural Oregon to BBDW in Manhattan, and the countless creative endeavors along the way. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Why the Home Industry's Retail Strategy Isn't Working Sep 10, 2018

There are few, if any, retailers in the home category that haven’t been under the journalistic microscope of Warren Shoulberg. In this episode, the trade media veteran shares his findings, offering RH, Bed Bath & Beyond, The Home Depot and others as case studies for what is and isn’t working in the modern retail environment. Tune in as he reveals which retailer is “one of the greatest in the world right now and” why he’ll never bet against RH CEO Gary Friedman, and exposes the “dirty little secret” of the furniture industry. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Industry West’s Secret to Scaling—Without the Help of VCs Aug 27, 2018

When it comes to furniture companies, commercial design favorite Industry West is an anomaly. Since its launch in 2009, the Jacksonville, Florida-based, direct-to-consumer brand has been profitable. Husband and wife co-founders Jordan and Anne England’s bootstrapped efforts have led to a growth of nearly 70 percent each year—a rate that, Jordan says, shows no signs of slowing down. Now, the couple reveals the challenges of being an e-commerce early adopter, why they’re opening a SoHo showroom, and how they’re working offline to acquire new customers. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

How Nicole Gibbons Went From Blogger to VC Darling Aug 17, 2018

Detroit-born interior designer Nicole Gibbons has been chasing her business goals—be it a PR exec, design studio, or television series—long before the paint dried on her new startup. After building the business model for Clare, an e-commerce paint company, she had to convince venture capitalists of the potential that exists in today’s “sleepy” home industry. Gibbons shares how she conceived of the idea for Clare, and what the design trade could learn from the startup community. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Inside Parachute Home’s Community-Focused Expansion Plans Aug 10, 2018

The term ‘retail store’ isn’t in Ariel Kaye’s vocabulary. The founder and CEO of Parachute Home prefers to use “community centers” when referencing the digital-first bedding and bath brand’s physical locations. In true clicks-to-bricks fashion, Parachute is focused on cultivating its consumer community and providing value outside of just its European-made product. In this interview, Kaye shares how she built Parachute and its cult-like following, while also acknowledging the challenges of running a startup and the isolation that can come with being a sole founder. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

From Bankruptcy to IPO, How Shawn Nelson Built the Country's Fastest-Growing Furniture Retailer Aug 03, 2018

It’s a coming-of-age business tale that reads more tech startup than furniture manufacturer. More than two decades ago, Lovesac began as a zealous idea in Shawn Nelson’s parents’ basement. As of June, the company filed an IPO with a company market capitalization of more than $250 million. In this interview, Nelson revisits the merchandising mistakes, bankruptcy filing, and painful lessons learned along the way. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

How Ralph Pucci Became the Master of Visual Merchandising Jul 27, 2018

Whether it’s preserving his iconic mannequin label or curating his next gallery exhibition, Ralph Pucci leads by one rule: “If everyone’s going left, I’m going right.” It worked in 1985, when Pucci successfully debuted the collection of designer Andrée Putman with no industry experience, and it continues to work today, as the company now boasts galleries in New York, Los Angeles and Miami. In this week’s episode, Pucci takes us through the remarkable timeline of Ralph Pucci International and reveals his visual merchandising secrets. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Why Schumacher Is a 128-Year-Old Startup Jul 20, 2018

Driven by KPIs and constant product launches, Schumacher operates more like a 128-year-old startup than a legacy brand. That’s no coincidence, explains Schumacher CEO Timur Yumusaklar and Creative Director Dara Caponigro in this week’s episode. The venerated fabric brand, which houses greats from Frank Lloyd Wright and Josef Frank to Miles Redd in its archive, remains confident in it’s identity yet understands that moving with the times is essential. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

How Data Helped 1stdibs Dominate the Luxury Market Jun 29, 2018

Before becoming CEO of 1stdibs, David Rosenblatt spent more than a decade heading up an internet company that, in 2008, sold to Google for $3.2 billion. It’s no surprise that one of his first moves as CEO of 1stdibs was to upgrade the technology platforms. In 2016, he overhauled the business model to a commission one (from a monthly fee) and grew the offerings to include more new and custom, which he says represents the biggest opportunity. In this episode, he shares how he uses data to inform his decisions and why it’s working. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

China is the Next Frontier for Interior Design Jun 22, 2018

Campion Platt believes China is the land of opportunity for interior designers and furniture manufacturers—but only for the next 10 years. In an exclusive story in the summer issue of Business of Home, the designer unveiled his collaboration with a major Chinese developer on a 10.7-million-square-foot complex comprised of a luxury design center, accredited design school, performing arts center, and more. Tune in as Platt reveals how he got involved—and why it may be in other best interest to follow suit.

How Interior Define Couples Customer Experience With Company Culture Jun 08, 2018

Rob Royer launched Interior Define online in 2014, offering direct-to-consumer, customizable sofas at a middle-market price point. Veteran insight and early investment capital from Bonobos founder (and Royer’s brother-in-law) Andy Dunn helped the Chicago-based company gain early momentum among consumers and designers. Today, Interior Define, which has since expanded its custom offerings to multiple product furnishing categories, is on track to triple its sales for the third year in a row. The growth has some industry players questioning: Can this model work at the higher end? This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

From the Archives: Bunny Williams and Oscar de la Renta Jun 01, 2018

Fashion in the 1960s was not unlike the interior design scene is today. When Oscar de la Renta moved to the big apple from Paris, most clothing labels carried the names of manufacturers. “The designers were doing all the work in the back but getting no credit ... it was a very important transition time when the designers, the creators, came into their own,” he said in an interview with Bunny Williams at the Design Leadership Network Summit in 2014. In this archival episode, the two iconic figures discuss what it takes to build a legacy brand, how to channel panic into creativity and the why collaboration is critical. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Hem Wants to be the High-End IKEA May 25, 2018

IKEA is the only furniture brand that is truly global, notes Petrus Palmér, founder of modern furniture brand Hem. The designer-turned-entrepreneur sees white space for high-end brands to reach global scale, and is growing Hem with that in mind. Hem was among the first to sell direct to consumer, disrupting the traditional structure for furniture distribution and catching the attention of Fab.com, which acquired it in 2014. Palmér bought it back in 2016, and took investment from Vitra in 2016. This year, he grew the business by 135%, to $6 million in revenue. In this episode he shares how “resimercial” has become a sweet spot for Hem and why companies like Facebook, Uber and Pinterest offices are outfitted with his furniture. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

The Story of Sweeten May 18, 2018

Architect-turned entrepreneur Jean Brownhill has raised more than $8 million in venture capital to grow Sweeten, a general contractor match-making service that facilitated nearly a billion dollars in services this year. As one of 26 African-American female entrepreneurs in the U.S. to raise more than $1 million in VC funding, she emphasizes that raising venture capital doesn’t equal success. The goal is to build a big company that scales, and helps millions of people. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Becoming Holly Hunt May 11, 2018

Holly Hunt made headlines four years ago when she sold her eponymous company to Knoll for $95 million. But it’s never been about the money for the Texas-born designer, who started her business as a recently-divorced mother of three boys in 1983—without "a big hairy plan." She built what was then a new concept: a multi-line showroom, bringing on makers like Carl Springer, Jim Thompson and Rose Tarlow before designing and manufacturing her own line. In this episode, she shares the ups and downs of the last 30 years—from designer Christian Liagre's departure to adjusting to life post-acquisition, and what the future holds. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

How Maxwell Ryan Won With Millennials May 04, 2018

It's fitting that Maxwell Ryan was a teacher for seven years prior to founding Apartment Therapy. He’s now teaching readers—20 million of them—how to live beautifully and happily. By featuring homes that are “juicy, lived-in, and accessible,” he appeals to the “broad middle”—a lot of people with a little to spend—and is the go-to for Millennials who love decorating. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

A New Era for Trade Showrooms Apr 27, 2018

Crans Baldwin reflects on 30 years running to-the-trade companies such as Donghia and Dedar. Now, after starting his own consulting outfit, he is on the road talking to designers and hearing about their struggles and successes firsthand. In this episode, he outlines the current problems facing the industry (design centers on the whole aren’t working) and offers solutions (more road reps). This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Why Direct-to-Consumer is the Future of Furniture Apr 20, 2018

With stints at McKinsey, Google and Birchbox, Maiden Home founder Nidhi Kapur has applied her digital brand-building skills to upholstery—sofas and chairs. On this week’s episode, she shares the good, the bad and the ugly of creating a direct-to-consumer custom furniture company—from sourcing and product development to marketing. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

A Modern Turnaround Tale Apr 13, 2018

Modern design is at John Edelman’s core: Andy Warhol did the graphics for his parents’ leather company; he cultivated a renowned Milo Baughman collection; and as CEO of Design Within Reach, he is ensuring that authentic modern design endures. Edelman shares how his parent’s business (which evolved from door-to-door snakeskin sales to purveyors of water buffalo hides to a global luxury textile company—and plenty of stints in between) lead him to the world of interior design—first at Edelman Leather which he sold to Knoll and now to DWR which he sold to Herman Miller after rescuing it from the brink of financial ruin. Plus, hear his impassioned thoughts on knock-offs and what DWR is doing to fight them. This episode is sponsored by Fuigo.

Behold, To the Trade 2.0 Apr 06, 2018

Maury Riad’s connection to the trade goes back decades—from running Fortuny, the storied Italian fabric brand his family owns, to Fuigo, the design management software and shared workspace he co-founded in 2016. His vision for the industry, which he likes to call “To the Trade Trade 2.0,” includes making the interior design process more transparent in its pricing and business models. This week, he chats about how the trade has become devalued in the digital world and how this can be reversed through collaboration, organization and community-building.

How Consort Plans to Scale the Boutique Design Experience Mar 29, 2018

Designer Mat Sanders jokes that his design business launched with a ceramic middle finger. Scratch beneath the surface of his playful sensibility—which is reflected in his personality, interior designs and product lines—and you’ll find an ambitious business plan backed by a clear vision (and some anonymous funding). The Consort co-founder chats about how mid-budget customers are underserved, why boutique design services are hard to scale, and how he’s planning to conquer the design world by addressing both problems. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

Why ‘Fast Custom’ is the Next Wave Mar 23, 2018

Home furnishings brand maven Christiane Lemieux chats about her fast furniture endeavor, The Inside, and the other companies she founded along the way. From growing up in Canada, to launching her first company and selling it to Wayfair, Lemieux shares her insider knowledge of the furniture business and where she thinks it is going. Plus, find out how she thinks consumers will be investing in their homes and how the trade can keep up with their demands. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

How Homepolish is Redesigning Interior Design Mar 16, 2018

Homepolish co-founder Noa Santos champions interior designers and creates transparency in an infamously opaque industry. Santos shares how Homepolish has evolved over its five years into a design platform, how it’s taking on big-budget, full-service renovations, and how it matches clients with contractors and architects. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

The Rise and Rebirth of Domino Mar 09, 2018

Beth Brenner, chief revenue officer of Domino Media Group, shares her firsthand experience of the founding of Domino magazine, diving deep into its cult-like following, sudden fall and recent reincarnation. She shares how the brand continues to grow in an ever-changing media landscape and the importance of brick-and-mortar. Plus, find out what it’s like to have a Condé Nast bigwig as your dad. This episode is sponsored by High Point Market.

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