Slow Style Home: Decorating Personal, Meaningful Interiors

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I sit down with designer Barrett Oswald to examine the thought process behind her stunning, layered interiors. We explore the power of color, the role of texture, and how composition can transform a space—whether it’s a grand entryway or a cozy nook. Barrett shares insights from her work on both historic and modern homes, explaining how she uses color drenching to create immersive atm...

In this episode, I interview Nasozi Kakembo, author of 'African Decor Edit,' who shares her experiences traveling across Africa meeting artisans, and creating home accessories. Nasozi's book underscores the importance of understanding the cultural context behind African decor, highlighting 16 significant objects and how they are artfully incorporated into homes around the world. She emphasizes the historical and regi...

Last week, I interviewed a designer who strongly follows and advocates for design rules, and while that method works for some, I advocate for a different, more personal approach to home design. I discussed various design rules, their origins, and how they can be broken to create a unique, joyful space that reflects individual style. I categorized design rules into three buckets: classical aesthetic principles, practical rules learn...

In this episode, I sit down with Betsy Helmuth, a professional designer known for her fast-paced, rule-based approach, which contrasts with my slow style method. While I emphasize self-exploration and taking time to layer a home, Betsy's clients prioritize efficiency and clear guidelines to avoid mistakes in their design decisions. Betsy shares how she helps her New York City clients choose practical, affordable furniture, oft...

In this episode, I had a delightful conversation with Danielle Balanis, a Birmingham-based designer known for her bold, layered, and mixed aesthetic. Danielle's designs exude joy, abundance, and energy, adhering to the principles of the Slow Style philosophy. She emphasizes developing an aesthetic rather than adhering to strict style categories, focusing on creating evocative experiences rather than matching products. Danielle...

Today I'm sharing a 1:1 coaching call from a listener who wanted help with his basement bar. It's a small area that he felt could use a big update.  And he wanted to use his recent trip to Germany as a jumping off point.  If you're watching this on YouTube, you'll see photos of his bar and some shots I pulled from German taverns for inspiration. 

Want to finally define your style? Grab your free worksheet and un...

In this first episode of my new "Fix My Room" series, I take you behind the scenes of a real-life design coaching session with Kathleen. Join me as I help her transform a frustrating living room into a peaceful, light-filled space by focusing on what truly brings her joy. We'll explore how a few strategic changes—removing heavy curtains, relocating clutter, and finding the perfect rug—can completely shift how you exp...

In this episode, I sit down with Barbara Boyle, author of 'Pinch Me: Waking Up in a 300 Year Old Italian Farmhouse.' Barbara shares her journey from a successful advertising career to renovating and living in an old Italian farmhouse. Her initial inspiration came during a honeymoon trip to Europe where she fell in love with a small Italian town. She speaks about the sense of community and belonging she found, the bravery ...

Happy 2025! I love the new year and the sense of starting over it brings. In this episode, I steer clear of trends and focus on a slow style approach to interior design. Instead of overwhelming yourself with big changes, I suggest sitting in each room of your home to take stock of what makes you happy and what doesn't. I encourage you to use inspirations like new hobbies, recent travels, and the desire to declutter to make mea...

In the final episode of the Slow Style Home podcast for 2024, I talk to Stephanie O'Dea, the author of 'Slow Living: Cultivating a Life of Purpose in a Hustle Driven World.' We dive into how her book provides actionable steps for reorienting one's mindset towards a purposeful life, away from societal pressures. Stephanie explains the concept of slow living, which she defines as 'simply look only within,&apo...

In this episode, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Nina Watson, a designer whose thoughtful and intentional approach to her home perfectly embodies the Slow Style principles I teach. As we talked, her stories brought these principles to life, offering real-world examples of how they can transform not just our spaces, but the way we live in them.

We explored how Style Evolves through her reimagined design choices, like ligh...

When I sat down with Lauren Emerson and Genevieve Hewson of Walter G., I was transported into the world of block printing, where craftsmanship and soul meet.  We spoke about the philosophy behind 'slow style,' emphasizing the importance of handmade and artisan products and the ethical considerations of their creation. We discuss the unique tactile and visual qualities of handmade fabrics and the stories they carry into ou...

Schuyler Samperton and I talk about incorporating inherited items, mixing styles and eras, and creatively using dark wood. We highlight the importance of scale, inventive textile applications, and using light fixtures as focal points. Schuyler also goes behind the scenes with her own fabric and wallpaper lines and provides tips on mixing and matching patterns. We explore several of her projects so you can see how she integrates per...

In this solo episode, I explore a popular topic: handling mementos and tchotchkes from travel. I share my thought process, from pre-trip preparations to what I buy and how I integrate those items into my home. Travel fuels home design with life and energy, inspiring us with new ideas and color palettes. I offer a deep dive into the Slow Style Framework for home makeovers and discuss my recent trip to London, providing practical adv...

The Slow Style Home podcast is about the process of creating a beautiful, one-of-a-kind home without hurting the planet or your wallet to get there. Slow Style is an antidote to fast-paced micro trends and disposable decor and the pressure we've been feeling to live in this instantaneous, perfect home. My name is Zandra Zuraw and I'm really excited to introduce you to Slow Style.  On the show, you'll hear solo episod...

In this episode of the Slow Style Home Podcast, I sat down with Michael Bartz, a homeowner who built and lives in a tiny home with his partner and three cats. Michael's journey to sustainable living began in 2015 after a life-changing breakup, leading him to question traditional housing and embrace the tiny house lifestyle. He built his 175-square-foot mobile home in his brother's backyard over four years, relying on YouT...

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I interview Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett, founders of KOBEL + Co. We explore their design philosophy, which includes the use of 'ugly' pieces to add tension, balance, and serendipity. They explain how incorporating antiques and avoiding matchiness can make spaces more interesting and welcoming. We discuss the importance of taking your time to evolve your style and th...

In this solo episode, we will explore step three of my Slow Style framework, which is all about executing your vision for a room makeover. I'm here to guide you in thoughtfully connecting your design choices to the personal visions and values that matter most to you. I emphasize the importance of resisting impulsive shopping and instead carefully selecting decor that truly reflects your personality and passions. I talk about h...

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I sit down with Samantha Stathis Lynch of Samantha Ware Designs to explore her rich background in art authentication and interior design. Samantha shares her journey from galleries to working at the prestigious De Gournay, and how she incorporates her deep understanding of art history into accessible interior design for all. She discusses the importance of mixing various design eras t...