Ep. 140: designer Barrie Benson

Designer Barrie Benson joins the show to talk about how she creates spaces that are both super sophisticated and also lively and fun. She talks with us about how to start an art collection, why she thinks more Southern homes are embracing contemporary styles, and how to update that traditional chair with a modern fabric. What You’ll Hear On This Episode: How Barrie mixes fun and colorful with sophisticated and well thought out design. Why it’s important to really know your taste when working with a designer, and it’s okay to embrace if your taste is different or eclectic! Ways we can reinvent old family heirlooms or furniture and how just a fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference. It’s great to call a friend (or designer of course) to get a perspective and outside look at what you have going on in terms of your design. Barrie has seen more Southerners mixing traditional and stately with new and lively lately. Ways you can get involved in your local art community and get to really know your taste and palette for art. The more you are passionate about your house, the more you are proud and connected to it. How Barrie uses the 80/20 rule to plan out her rooms, but leave space for new and organic pieces. What toile wallpaper is, and how we can use it in a fun way. Barrie’s choice of performance fabric rugs that look great and also are durable and forgiving on wear and tear. Mentioned In This Episode: Barrie Benson @barriebenson Soco Gallery Sheila Bridges SONY