Revisiting Barbra Streisand’s 300-Page Home-Design Manifesto

This article features an interview with Meredith Sherrill, founder of Meredith Sherrill Design, presenting her as an 'Interior Designer Crush.' Sherrill's design philosophy is rooted in the ancient Japanese aesthetic of Wabi Sabi, embracing imperfection, impermanence, and incompleteness. This is reflected in her use of natural materials, subdued color schemes, and a focus on simplicity in form and function. She often incorporates quirky asymmetrical elements to balance otherwise symmetrical spaces, avoiding a sense of artificial perfection. Sherrill highlights the importance of local sourcing for her projects in Birmingham, Alabama. She procures local Alabama marble for countertops and reclaimed oak or cypress for flooring and cabinetry. The city's vibrant artisan community also allows her to collaborate with skilled craftsmen for custom furniture pieces made from wood, steel, glass, and upholstered materials. For other decor items, she frequents local shops such as Circa, Maison, Design Supply, Roman Brantley, Hiltz-Lauber, and Paige Albright, and enjoys exploring antique finds at The Garage. Regarding current design trends and timeless elements, Sherrill expresses her enduring preference for minimal spaces with natural elements. She views brass fixtures as currently popular but believes they can be timeless if used in solid, unlacquered forms and traditional designs. She emphasizes clinging to classical design elements in architectural structures, asserting that proper scale, proportion, balance, and symmetry in a space's 'bones' provide greater flexibility for soft furnishings and decorative choices. When discussing project challenges, Sherrill notes that all projects have their complexities due to the many moving parts and people involved in construction and design. She finds the most rewarding challenges arise from collaborating with other 'right-brained' individuals like painters, chefs, or photographers. These collaborations push her creative boundaries and encourage her to think beyond conventional solutions to meet unique client needs. Sherrill finds professional joy in clients feeling happy and comfortable in their finished homes, as creating functional and livable spaces is her ultimate goal. She particularly enjoys space planning and renovation projects, finding satisfaction in reimagining dysfunctional floor plans and solving spatial puzzles. This process of transforming existing spaces to better suit client needs provides a sense of accomplishment. The Birmingham design scene is unique, according to Sherrill, due to its wealth of architectural treasures, both old and new. She values the ability to physically observe and study the scale and details of diverse architectural styles in person, which she believes offers a more profound understanding than images alone. Her inspiration comes from creative individuals who encourage new perspectives and, significantly, from travel, where she collects details like shutter colors, light fixtures, and everyday objects. Mentors who influenced her career include architects Paul Bates and Jeremy Corkern from Bates Corkern Studio, where she began after design school. She also credits her internship at McAlpine Booth and Ferrier (now McAlpine) in Nashville, where Bobby McAlpine and Ray Booth instilled in her the importance of attention to detail. Her design philosophy is encapsulated in five words: Clean, Comfortable, Functional, Lovely, and Intriguing. #InteriorDesign #MeredithSherrill #DesignAesthetics #WabiSabi #LocalSourcing #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #ArchitecturalDesign #BirminghamDesign #CreativeProcess #SpacePlanning

The perception of home makeover shows on television, which often depict rapid transformations within a single episode, is critiqued by Mark Brunetz, Emmy Award-winning co-host of the former Style Network series “Clean House.” Brunetz, who spent nine years on the show, reveals that these productions require extensive resources, including a crew of 100 people and a week of work for each home. He points out a significant disconnect between the glamorized on-screen portrayals and the reality of the design process, which is far more complex and nuanced than what is typically shown. Motivated by this insight, Brunetz launched a podcast titled "Scandalabra: The Ugly Truth Behind Beautiful Spaces," available on various podcast platforms. This podcast aims to delve deeper into the design industry, moving beyond superficial aesthetics and the emotional reveals commonly featured on TV. Since its launch in July, the podcast has featured 24 candid interviews with design insiders, with more episodes planned. These discussions have brought to light critical perspectives on the home improvement genre. One recurring theme in the podcast, articulated by designer Jaime Rummerfield, is that while home makeover shows have raised awareness about home improvement, they have also inadvertently cheapened the fields of design and architecture. Rummerfield draws a parallel between "fast design" and "fast fashion," where products are made to look appealing for a brief moment but lack durability and substance. This trend pushes poorly made furniture and quick fixes, prioritizing immediate visual impact over lasting quality and thoughtful design. Another criticism highlighted is the common practice of showing sledgehammer demolitions in every episode. While visually engaging for television, such structural changes are often unnecessary or inappropriate for many homes, demonstrating a focus on dramatic effect rather than practical design solutions. Brunetz's interviews frequently reveal that many people tend to copy design trends, which can result in homes that lack personal authenticity. Guests on the podcast emphasize that individuals often feel pressured to adhere to a single design style, influenced by quizzes or prevailing trends. However, the true objective of design, as argued by these experts, is to create a space that genuinely reflects the homeowner's personality and lifestyle, rather than a generic or trendy aesthetic. Angelo Surmelis, a guest on an episode titled “The Dangers of Idolizing TV Designers,” advises against mimicking the styles of TV design experts or blindly following trends. He asserts that companies often manufacture trends primarily to boost product sales, and that true design expertise for one's personal space comes from within. The article suggests that embracing personal preferences and individual taste is more crucial than following a prescribed "color of the year" or an "expert's" recommendation, requiring self-reflection to determine one's authentic style. Renowned architect Dean Larkin, known for his work on high-value properties, advocates for ignoring "isms" in design. He argues that adhering strictly to movements like midcentury modernism or traditionalism limits the opportunity to develop a unique personal aesthetic. Larkin stresses that a home should function as a personal sanctuary, reflecting the occupants and their family. He also cautions against rushing the design process, contrasting it with the expedited timelines seen on TV shows. Successful rooms, he contends, evolve over time. Larkin also challenges the concept of "timeless design," asserting that great design inherently connects people, space, and the specific era they inhabit, and thus is always subject to change. Regarding the impact of the pandemic on home design, Brunetz notes that it merely amplified existing issues. The increased time spent at home caused many to scrutinize their living environments more closely, revealing dissatisfactions with spaces that did not genuinely reflect them. Those who thrived at home during this period were often those whose living spaces resonated with their personal identities. To help individuals discover their personal style, Brunetz employs an interview technique where he asks about their hobbies, travel preferences, favorite clothing, or even what piece of furniture they would be, detailing its characteristics. This method helps people articulate their aesthetic inclinations, underscoring that everyone possesses a distinct style. #HomeMakeoverShows #DesignPodcast #InteriorDesignCritique #AuthenticDesign #DesignTrends #HomeDecoration #DesignIndustryInsights #ScandalabraPodcast #MarkBrunetz

The article focuses on Dan Rosen, a New York comedian who gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic by satirizing the interior design choices of celebrities' homes on TikTok. During the lockdown, Rosen observed a significant disparity between the living conditions of the privileged and the general population, which became particularly apparent through celebrity home tours. He noted that many celebrity homes, despite their opulence, exhibited a frustrating uniformity in their decor and a perceived lack of genuine taste, often prioritizing status and wealth aesthetics over personal sensibility. Rosen's videos employ acidic humor to critique the homes of figures such as the Kardashians, Pharrell Williams, and Tommy Hilfiger. He also compiles rankings of undesirable furniture and art pieces commonly found in the residences of the wealthy. He argues that many celebrities lack a true understanding of personal style, instead opting for repetitive and cliché design elements that merely signal affluence. Rosen identifies a prevalent trend where expensive objects and narratives are copied, leading to what he describes as 'boring' interiors. He views dullness as the ultimate interior decorating offense. While generally critical, Rosen acknowledges exceptions, such as Dita Von Teese's house, which he finds unique and original, albeit bordering on excessive. He also points out Cara Delevingne's home for its eclectic, multi-styled rooms, admitting his critiques might be harsh but justified given the celebrities' financial resources. Rosen, who has a background in fine arts, applies an artistic sensibility to his critiques, paying particular attention to the art displayed in celebrity homes. He frequently criticizes artists like Damien Hirst, Kaws, and Banksy, labeling their works as expensive status symbols that lack subtlety, profound messaging, or deep connection for the viewer. He views them as mainstream and easily recognizable, serving primarily to validate wealth rather than express genuine artistic appreciation. Rosen contrasts this with examples of celebrities who display more thoughtful art choices, such as Kendall Jenner's inclusion of Barbara Kruger's work, which he sees as having a thematic connection, and Gwyneth Paltrow's sensitive integration of a Ruth Asawa piece. He also appreciates Alicia Keys' art collection, despite the occasional Kaws. He expresses his dislike for Dalí, calling him overrated and lacking subtlety, and criticizes the 'cuqui' or 'kawaii' art trend for reflecting a growing infantilization of culture and a reluctance to engage with complex aesthetic forms. Rosen encourages non-wealthy individuals to develop their own taste in art and home decor, choosing pieces that hold personal meaning rather than following trends or seeking external validation. He advises the wealthy to consult better art advisors and engage more with museums and galleries, suggesting that their current engagement with art is often superficial, epitomized by events like the Met Gala. #CelebrityHomes #InteriorDesign #DanRosen #ArtCriticism #PopCulture #SocialCommentary #TikTokComedy #LuxuryAesthetics #DesignCritique

Melissa Bodie, co-founder and director of Melissa + Miller Interiors, shares insights into her career as an interior designer and offers five key pieces of advice for creating joyful living spaces. Bodie's upbringing, influenced by her mother's home-building career, instilled in her an early passion for design and architecture. She recalls suggesting a staircase repositioning at the age of eight, which her mother adopted successfully. Throughout her career, Bodie has worked with notable design figures such as Nina Campbell, Martin Brudnizki, and Martha Stewart, learning the importance of meticulous attention to detail from these industry leaders. She emphasizes that while their styles varied, a common thread was their focus on the minutiae, which significantly impacts the overall aesthetic and feel of a space. She also candidly shares a humorous early career mistake, highlighting the steep learning curve in the industry, particularly in styling for high-profile clients like Martha Stewart. Melissa + Miller Interiors, with offices in London and Philadelphia, specializes in high-end, bespoke interior design, prioritizing comfort and functionality alongside luxury and style. The firm offers comprehensive services including knowledge of architecture, textiles, antiques, project management, and custom design. In 2020, they launched an e-design service, providing their custom interior design expertise to clients globally with quick turnaround times. This initiative also serves as a platform for social good, with a portion of fees donated to organizations like Feeding America, NAACP, and Black Artists + Designers Guild. The firm actively reassesses its brand partnerships and sourcing to promote diversity within the design industry. They also host a weekly Instagram series, "Meet a Maker," spotlighting talented BIPOC and female artists, craftswomen, and designers. Bodie's five recommendations for sparking joy in living spaces begin with the principle to "Buy what you love." She believes interior design should transcend trends, focusing instead on how a room evokes feelings, creates ambiance, and offers comfort without sacrificing style. A home should be an extension of one's personal style, as the client ultimately lives in the space. The second tip, "Buy from whom you love," encourages intentional purchasing from artisans, makers, and craftspeople whose stories resonate. Melissa + Miller Interiors supports this by featuring diverse creators in their "Meet a Maker" series and through their gift guide. The third recommendation is "Be well," focusing on mental health within interior design. This involves creating spaces that promote tranquility and peace, often referred to as "zen zones." These can range from a dedicated meditation room to a cozy corner, incorporating soothing elements for all five senses: calming colors and lighting for sight, soft textures for touch, scented candles for smell, and organized playlists for sound. Bodie suggests colors like light blues, soft greens, greys, blush, and lilac for their peace-promoting qualities. The fourth point advises against comparison, stating that "Comparison precludes joy." Finally, "Outdoors, in" emphasizes integrating nature into living spaces, whether through a balcony, terrace, or garden. Bodie views outdoor areas as extensions of the interior, decorating them with beautiful furniture, lighting, and accessories. Due to client demand, Melissa + Miller Interiors plans to launch a garden design arm to create exteriors that complement their interiors. Bodie advocates for democratic design, believing that safe and beautiful environments should be accessible to everyone, including in public schools, daycare centers, and city hospitals. Her firm has demonstrated this commitment by designing a public space for a family homeless shelter. She also supports movements that amplify women's voices, particularly women of color. When asked about a person she'd like to meet, Bodie names Michelle Obama, admiring her influence. Melissa Bodie can be followed on Instagram at @melissaandmillerinteriors. #InteriorDesign #MelissaBodie #MelissaMillerInteriors #HomeDecor #JoyfulLiving #DesignPhilosophy #EdesignServices #SocialImpact #WellnessDesign

Julie Sousa, a 2017 graduate, discovered her passion for interior design during high school when she ingeniously decorated her bedroom using multicolored construction paper and tape, as her contractor father was hesitant about her painting decisions. This early experience taught her to creatively achieve desired effects with available resources, a pragmatism that later became fundamental to her interior design business. In 2020, while working as a digital marketing specialist at PTC and redesigning her Boston condo, Sousa launched Avant Garde Home LLC. She leveraged TikTok and Instagram to document her home decor and design journey, realizing that not everyone possesses an artistic inclination. Consequently, she began sharing insights into the design process, making artistic concepts accessible through practical advice. This strategy helped her rapidly build a social media audience, leading her to leave her corporate job after three months to pursue interior design full-time. Sousa's analytical skills, honed at Bentley, proved invaluable as she monitored website traffic and the performance of her social media posts. Her first viral video, which garnered 5.1 million views, offered tips on how to avoid the 'farmhouse' decor style. Sousa personally favors biophilic design, a concept that integrates nature into indoor spaces. She finds that incorporating plants and greenery into her home provides a sense of calm and helps her manage her attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, stating that walking into a room filled with plants is very relaxing. Beyond plants, other elements of biophilic design include maximizing natural light, opting for natural materials like wood and glass over plastic for furniture and accents, installing small indoor water features, and using natural stone. The core objective of biophilic design, according to Sousa, is to create a seamless transition between the outdoors and the home. This approach not only offers health benefits but also contributes to sustainability by encouraging the use of more natural light and fewer plastic products, which is environmentally beneficial. Sousa's design philosophy is also influenced by her Brazilian heritage. She particularly embraces the 'jungle concept' and is integrating it into her baby's nursery with Brazilian-based furniture, bold colors, and earthy materials, reflecting the significant impact of her culture on her aesthetic style and taste. #InteriorDesign #BiophilicDesign #HomeDecor #JulieSousa #AvantGardeHome #SocialMediaMarketing #SustainableDesign #Entrepreneurship