Interior Design with Kandrac and Kole

BIO:

Kandrac & Kole was voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine, and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well-known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, signature use of color and pattern, and one-of-a-kind, custom designs.

As industry experts for residential and commercial design, Joann Kandrac & Kelly Kole share upbeat and entertaining narratives regarding their design projects, travels, and personal stories on their popular blog, their podcast, and via national speaking engagements. Joann and Kelly’s love and commitment to the power of interior design also extends towards their charity work throughout the U.S. and Guatemala.

SPONSOR:

This episode is sponsored by our friends at Norwalk Furniture.

As you know we just returned from High Point Furniture Market where we spent a lot of time at Norwalk, one of our go-to brands for quality, custom-made furniture. We conscientiously went through each of the new fabric introductions which the President, Caroline Hipple, is so brilliant at sourcing. Unlike many other manufacturers, they have a particularly fabulous array of patterns and bright, fun fabrics to partner with performance fabrics, leathers, and textures like boucle and velvet. At the end of one of our long days, we curled up on the Neptune sectional with Prosecco and caught up with our friends at Coco & Dash for over an hour. It was so comfortable!

Check out Norwalk’s website and especially their 360-Design tool to help visualize pieces. They are now shipping in 8 weeks!

Norwalk Furniture Website: https://norwalkfurniture.com

Our Trip To High Point Spring 2023

Fri, 19 May 2023 09:00:00 +0200

This episode is all about our recent trip to the High Point Furniture Market in High Point, North Carolina. We didn’t set up many appointments this time so that we could be free to roam, find new accounts, build new relationships, and see where the inspiration would lead us. We had a super successful Insiders Tour on Saturday and learned a lot as usual. Listen up for all the trends and insights we discovered at the 2023 Spring High Point Market.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

If you ever considered owning or designing a vacation or short-term rental, hear about the Vacation Rental Design Summit we attended in High Point.
Take the time to listen to successful people in your industry and learn from them.
The Top Trends in lighting, furniture, art, and accessories we saw at High Point Market.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIO:

SPONSOR:

This episode is sponsored by Gabby Home. Gabby is one of our go-to brands for everything from upholstery to lighting to case goods. Their transitional designs are easy to insert into any project.

You can visit a GABBY to-the-trade showroom in Atlanta, Highpoint, or Dallas. While you are there, check out some of our all-time favorites, like the Gordan pendant, the Arrington cabinet, and the Lambert counter stool.

GABBY Website: https://gabbyhome.com/

Special Offer on Your Next Order: https://gabbyhome.com/kk

The Interior Designer Skillset

Fri, 05 May 2023 09:00:00 +0200

Time for some Joann & Kelly mentoring! In this episode, we discuss how being a successful interior designer requires an extraordinary and varied skillset. We will share (5) key skills we use almost every day, from how to qualify a client, build rapport and trust with a client, and, most importantly, close the deals. The last 18 years have taught us a lot, and we are happy to share some helpful insights.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Listen to the end of the episode for a VERY BIG industry announcement.
Establishing yourself as an expert from the first impression is key to closing the deal.
We collect all procurement and design funds 100% up front. We will explain how.

RESOURCE LINKS:

https://www.highpointmarket.org/designinfluencerstour

BIO:

SPONSOR: Esteem Media

This episode is sponsored by Esteem Media. Esteem Media is a brand that believes that commerce can be maximized among luxury businesses by creating and sharing content that adds value to online and offline business networks. They specialize in connecting national and local businesses in the luxury home design and fine wine arenas.

Their calendar of upcoming events is super impressive so listen closely:

HIGH POINT MARKET INFLUENCERS AND INSIDERS TOURS – Developed by the High Point Market Authority in partnership with Esteem

This spring, the Design Influencers Tour program will take ten design influencers on a two-day tour of sponsoring showrooms at High Point Market. During each tour, designers will receive an in-depth look at the exhibitor’s company history, brand positioning, and furnishings products. After Spring Market, each designer will reflect on inspirational products and moments from the Market, as well as promote the tour sponsors, via their online platforms. Follow them on social via #designinfluencerstour.

Influencer list:

INSIDERS TOUR - An amazing way to fast track immersion into the High Point Market with (5) established designers (which we are one of!)

LUXURY HOME DESIGN SUMMIT

MAY 22-24, 2023 | CHATHAM BARS INN | CHATHAM, MA

https://luxuryhomedesignsummit.com

This conference is a collaboration between Esteems magazine, New England Home and the Esteem Media event management team. It is a conference and networking event accessible to today's and future leaders in the luxury home design industry who run, own, manage, or aspire to lead home design businesses around the country. It is unlike any other conference in the industry, bringing luxury designers, architects, builders, landscape architects, and all kinds of folks that do business with them together with an advanced business program. Amazingly, the 2023 event sold out more than two months in advance of the actual conference (something we never experienced before) and we are accepting waiting list reservations.

SOUTHEASTERN DESIGNER SHOWHOUSE AND GARDENS

2762 Normandy Dr NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

May 11 - June 4, 2023

Benefitting Camp Twin Lakes which runs transformative camps for children

with serious illnesses, disabilities, and other life challenges

https://www.southeasternshowhouse.com

Hold on until the end for a very exciting announcement!

QUOTES:

Funny Quote “Gonna be honest with you guys. I don't understand how the gas nozzle knows when to stop.” Stach_bham

Serious Quote “Success in business requires training, discipline, and hard work, but if you’re not frightened by these things, the opportunities are just as great today as they ever were.” - David Rockefeller - lived to be 101

Everything You Want To Know About Kitchen Remodels with Guest Caren Danneman

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0200

Our guest today, Caren Danneman, a certified kitchen and bath designer, talks to us about kitchen remodels, how to add value to your home, and make your cooking experience more enjoyable. We explore everything you need to know, from budgeting to design ideas and the best materials for the job.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

What you can expect to pay for a kitchen remodel.
What questions you need to ask yourself to make sure your remodel is successful and meets your needs.
Learn about some wonderful kitchen and pantry storage solutions that can help maximize your space, organize your items, and make cooking and meal preparation much easier!

RESOURCE LINKS:

Danneman Designs LLC Website

Caren Danneman LinkedIn

Danneman Designs LLC Facebook

BIO:

Caren Danneman is a Certified Kitchen & Bath Designer with over 20 years of experience. She is a winner of a NARI CotY Award for Baths in 2015. She has written many articles on Kitchen and Bath Trends and sat as a Judge for The Bath of the Year for Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles 2015 edition. Although Caren specializes in Kitchens and Baths, she also creates home offices, unique laundry rooms and special built-ins. The Danneman Design team includes other designers around Atlanta and a group of contractors with whom to partner with to bring the designs to life!

SPONSOR:

We are honored today to be sponsored by Design KC, Kansas City’s inspirational and resourceful luxury home publication. As a consumer and trade journal of the most exceptional architecture, custom and remodeled homes, interior projects, and outdoor living, they strive to show readers how to live their best life – no matter where they choose to live.

You can find the latest issue of this oversized publication on newsstands and high-end showrooms in Kansas City, and you can read the publication online at mydesignkc.com. There you can browse hundreds of articles and videos with design ideas for your next home project. Flip through their digital editions, sign up for their newsletter, or follow them on Instagram at designkc_magazine.

If you would like to subscribe online, use code LOVEDESIGN1 to receive 1 year (5 issues) for only $10 or code LOVEDESIGN2 for a 2-year subscription (10 issues). When perusing the digital version, check out the video showing the 2023 Design KC Award Recipients. Kelly and I had the privilege of evaluating and selecting the best entries in this competition.

DesignKC Website

Our Trip To Marrakech, Morocco

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 09:00:00 +0200

We’ve just returned from our bucket list trip to Marrakech, Morocco, and we want to share all that we experienced with you! We truly believe that travel is an investment in our souls, our spiritual journeys, our views of the world and other cultures, and most importantly, an education in design. So tune in to hear all about our magical mystery tour of Marrakech.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You can learn A LOT from luxury hotels in terms of design details, architecture, and top-of-the-line customer service. Check out where we stayed: El-fenn.com
When you learn a second language, you become exposed to an entirely new culture. When you learn a third language, the same thing and so on.
We will never look at the shape of doorways the same after being to Marrakech.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Norwalk Furniture's Website

BIO:

SPONSOR: Norwalk Furniture

This episode is sponsored by Norwalk Furniture – one of our go-to manufacturers for quality, custom-made furniture. It makes perfect sense that Norwalk is our sponsor for this episode because one of the main reasons we were drawn to Norwalkistheirbeautiful and colorful fabric offerings. The inspiration for the colors offered by Norwalk is inspired by world travel. CarolineHipple, the President of Norwalk, and her Chief Creative Officer, Dixon Bartlett, have traveled the world to find the best in textiles, trends, construction, and colors so that they can bring them home and make sure their dealers and designers have the best options available for their clients. Norwalk has a stunning website with a 360-design tool to help visualize pieces. They are also now shipping in 8 weeks!

Guest Betsy Riley Editor in Chief of Atlanta Magazine

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 09:00:00 +0200

In this episode we speak with Editor in Chief of Atlanta Magazine, Betsy Riley. She shares the editing process, her favorite projects and what she looks for when scouting projects to feature. It was an honor to have Betsy on the show as one of our favorite projects is featured in the 2023 Spring Issue of Atlanta Magazine HOME on newsstands now!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Make sure to “read” shelter magazine articles and not just look at the pretty pictures. Things will be pointed out that you may not have noticed!
Hear why the Editor of Atlanta Magazine Home, Betsy Riley, selected Kandrac & Kole’s project to be featured in the Spring 2023 Issue.
Learn what Betsy’s advice is when submitting a project for publication.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Atlanta Magazine Website

BIO:

Guest BIO

Our guest today is Betty Riley. Betsy has worked with Atlanta Magazine in various capacities for more than 20 years, becoming Editor in Chief in 2017. In 2022, the magazine was recognized as the“Best City and Regional Magazine” in the country by Folio Magazine and was recently nominated for General Excellence by the American Society of Magazine Editors. Betsy has served on the board of the Atlanta Press Club and was formerly a regular contributor to local NPR affiliate WABE. In 2015 she launched a quarterly shelter magazine, Atlanta Magazine’s HOME, which remains her favorite project.

SPONSOR: Prosource Wholesale

Prosource Wholesale in Marietta, Georgia, is our go-to source for flooring, carpet, tile, plumbing products, and so much more. They are easy to get to from inside the perimeter, just 2 exits from the Atlanta Braves Stadium. They are located at I-75 and Delk Road near Dave & Busters.

Prosource is a great resource for trade professionals and their clients, with a beautiful showroom with over 20,000 samples and an experienced kitchen and bath designer on staff. The team at Prosource is outstanding - they are very helpful, communicate well, and are very detailed, a big plus when doing a renovation or new build.

Their ½ yearly April sale is coming up. Prosource Corporate and the team negotiate an additional 5-10% from the manufacturers and pass that savings on. They are offering a special for Kendrac & Kole listeners only. Be sure to stop by the showroom and tell the team you heard about Prosource on the Kandrac & Kole Podcast. Stacy will apply a $50 coupon to your 1st order of $150 or more. A great offer if you listen to or watch us.

Kitchen and Bath Trends 2023

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 10:00:00 +0200

The Kitchen and Bath Show just took place in Las Vegas. During this episode, we dive into the emerging kitchen and bath trends for 2023. Although we weren’t able to attend, we got the inside scoop from friends who were there in person. Listen to this episode to hear their takeaways and what we are most excited about this year.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

You don’t know what you don’t know, so stay close to an interior designer who keeps up with the latest innovations.
Pandemic-driven trends are still strong-wellness, organic textures and materials, and the expanding kitchen are all trends that are here for a while.
Color is back! When considering a kitchen or bath, new build, or renovation, consider bringing brave pops of color to your cabinets and appliances.

RESOURCE LINKS:

High Point Market Insiders Tour

The High Point Market

BIO:

SPONSOR: The High Point Market

High Point is the largest home furnishings market in the country, and we highly recommend you attend. Registration is now open for the upcoming April market. If you are with the trade and you are not familiar or comfortable tackling High Point on your own, then be sure to register for the free Insiders Tour. This year they are doing something different, and there will be three half-day tours on Friday, April 21st and a full-day tour on Saturday, April 22nd. We will be hosting a curated tour complete with lunch on Saturday, so be sure to sign up here: https://www.highpointmarket.org/InsidersTour

Guest Tobi Fairley

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0200

In this episode, we speak with Tobi Fairley on her many creative outlets, from designer to business coach, retail shop, and short-term rental owner and host of the popular podcast DesignYou.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

When you do what you are passionate about and stay within your core competency, you can create multiple creative outlets.
Failure is a good thing. Listen to hear the one thing that holds us back!
The vacation rental business and opportunities for growth in this market.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Tobi Fairley Website

DesignYou Podcast

BIO:

GUEST BIO:

Tobi is an award-winning designer and business consultant with over 23 years of experience helping high-achieving, creative professionals take their lives and companies to the next level. Though she made her name as an interior designer and business coach, she helps designers, coaches, CEOs, and organizations create more wealth, joy, and impact through her programs. As the host of the DesignYou podcast, Tobi delivers life-altering inspiration for creative entrepreneurs mixed with tactical business advice and unfiltered aha moments on topics most business gurus won’t dare to cover! Check out Tobi’s website at: https://tobifairley.com/betterbusiness

SPONSOR: The High Point Market Authority

Covering 13 city blocks, and over 11.5 million square feet of showrooms covering every product category, High Point Market is the home of home furnishings and the one show you can’t miss.

Every April and October, the future of home is imagined by our industry’s leading thinkers and innovators, defined by lifestyle trendsetters and product designers, given form by artists, artisans, and manufacturers, and made a part of people’s lives by interior designers and retailers.

So, if you are in the trade, make sure to register and start your plans to attend the Spring Show, which is on April 22-26th this year. The registration for the Insider’s Tour is live, so if you are interested, register early because those spots fill up. Visit the High Point Market and register here: highpointmarket.org

Why We Travel With Guest Kelly O'Shea

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 10:00:00 +0200

In this episode we are talking all things TRAVEL with our guest Kelly O’Shea, founder of Wanderlust Travel Consultants. Despite our crazy work schedule, we have made it a habit to plan travel experiences that rejuvenate us and offer us new perspectives, design inspirations, history lessons and culinary delights. We encourage you to do the same so we brought on a guest to help you plan your next trip!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Lean on a travel agent to handle logistics, excursions, airfare and more for a stress-free trip. It’s good for the soul to have a trip to look forward to!
Hot spots for travel right now are Sicily, Italy, Croatia and Portugal.
Help make your home more interesting and special with mementos from travel. Be on the hunt for a piece of art, a sculpture, even a Christmas ornament to keep memories alive.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Wanderlust Travel Consultants Website

BIO:

SPONSOR:

Outrageous Interiors is a family-owned retail store in Atlanta that’s been around for 34 years. They’ve got 4 locations–Alpharetta, Suwanee, Marietta and Kennesaw. The husband-and-wife team of Kurt and Patti Gosch do an amazing job sourcing everything from furniture, to rugs, to lamps, and accessories. They have a large inventory that they sell off their floor so it’s a go to shop for us when we need something in a pinch. Even though they have 15 talented in-house designers, they are also very trade friendly. They are very active on social media–especially Instagram–so check them out @outrageousinteriors. You will be very impressed!

Setting Goals for 2023

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0200

In this episode we discuss the importance of goal setting. We talk about our business and personal goals for 2023 and how we use the SMART method – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely. We also share our “vision boards” and how that keeps us on track to achieve those goals. Listen or watch to find out a primary goal we came SO CLOSE to reaching in 2022 and a “dream person” we would love to have as a guest on our podcast.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Be specific with your goals.
Make your goals measurable.
Have a goal that is a “stretch”.
Why travel is an important goal.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIO:

SPONSOR:

Covering 13 city blocks, over 11.5 million square feet of showrooms covering every product category, High Point Market is the home of home furnishings and the one show you can’t miss. Every April and October the future of home is imagined by our industry’s leading thinkers and innovators, defined by lifestyle trendsetters and product designers, given form by artists, artisans, and manufacturers, and made a part of people’s lives by interior designers and retailers. So, if you are in the trade, make sure to register and start your plans to attend the Spring Show which is April 22-26th this year. Visit the High Point Market and register here: highpointmarket.org.

What We Learn From Designer Show Houses

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 10:00:00 +0200

We are kicking off the New Year discussing Designer Show Houses and how they have benefited us as designers over the years. Living in Atlanta, we are fortunate to have numerous show houses available to visit, which means we get to see all kinds of new and unique design ideas and upcoming trends applied to extravagant homes. During this episode, we will share our top ten takeaways from the last two show homes we visited - from interesting space plans and luxury amenities to WOW tile and fireplace designs. Many regions of the country do not benefit from these beautiful Show Houses so we are here to fill you in on all that you are missing.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:35] What is a designer show house?
[04:12] Seeing the scale of furniture and what it shows designers.
[06:10] Learning furniture placement and space plans.
[10:06] How oversized lighting can be used.
[14:37] Creating a unique look in specialized spaces.
[19:00] How to create a fireplace design.
[20:20] Benefits of a scullery kitchen and oversized pantries.
[22:49] Wallpaper: should it be used everywhere?
[25:44] How tile design is used in homes.
[28:19] Creating a spectacular outdoor living space.
[29:34] The best way to use finishes.
[33:34] Why do designers use show houses?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Designer Show Houses are extravagant homes designed to the nines by up to a dozen different professional interior designers and then opened to the public to tour for up to one month. They are often sponsored by national and regional design magazines.
Go big or go home! Learning how to scale furniture, lighting and art appropriately is a skill more easily learned when you see it done beautifully in a Designer Show House.
Luxury amenities abound - We spotted coffee bars in master bedrooms and guest suites, oversized pantries to hide small appliances and bulk purchases along with his and hers master closets.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIO:

SPONSOR:

We have had a tremendous response to our 2023 sponsorship invites and we are excited to welcome back Prosource Marietta for the third year. Prosource Marietta is our stomping ground for a variety of selections for our clients from the latest and greatest tile to hardwoods and custom rugs to cabinetry and plumbing. Their team, especially their showroom manager, Stacy Wray, makes our lives very easy especially being a one stop shop kind of showroom in a big city like Atlanta. If you are a designer, you know that inventories and pricing of material are constantly changing. At Prosource, each Account Manager does the footwork to keep us up to date. Check them out at prosourcemarietta.com or prosourcewholesale.com for a showroom near you.

2022 Year In Review

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0200

This episode of Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole is our 2022 Year in Review. We talk about the year's projects, travel, conferences and lessons learned. We also review the episodes we recorded throughout the year. A big thank you to our sponsors for their support in 2022.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[3:30] January Highlights: Farm project, Episodes 123 and 124
[5:15] February Highlights: Cosentino Event, Episodes 125 and 126
[6:47] March Highlights: KBIS 2022 Trends, Episodes 127 and 128
[7:55] April Highlights: Meeting about 10,000 sf new build home, Episodes 129 and 130
[10:28] May Highlights: Fun conversations on social media, Episodes 131, 132, and 133
[12:23] June Highlights: Kelly’s visit to Guatemala, Murphy Photo Shoot, Dallas Speaking Event, Episodes 134 and 135
[16:56] July Highlights: Creating co-working space, the rooftop of luxury high rise apartment, Episodes 136 and 137
[20:01] August Highlights: Art consult, Westmont Leasing Renovation, Design Influencers Conference, Podcast Conference, Kelly’s Lake House on HGTV, Episodes 138, 139, and 140
[23:20] September Highlights: Upleveled Podcast, Episodes 141 and 142
[24:20] October Highlights: High Point Insiders Tour, Approached for our office to be in a Christmas movie, Episodes 143 and 144
[26:18] November Highlights: 4 New Consultants, Art Install on 6 floors, Episode 145 and 146
[27:23] December Highlights: Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Holiday House Tour, Invited to be Judges for the Design KC Magazine Design Awards, Episode 147 and 148
[29:40] Thank you to our sponsors!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Business Building Tip: Take advantage of networking. When we meet someone at an event, we immediately connect with them on social media to continue conversations and start building a relationship.
Make a commitment to continuing education in your field. Go to industry events and conferences and execute what you’ve learned.
Look back at the year and celebrate your success AND your failures, they are all about learning. Start thinking ahead to 2023 and take the opportunities that align with your goals in the new year!

RESOURCE LINKS:

Episode 123: Guest Bew White

Episode 124: Ask Us Anything!

Episode 125: Guest Photographer - Lanie Hall of Eikones Studio

Episode 126: Cosentino’s C.Next Global Design Summit

Episode 127: Kitchen and Bath Trends from KBIS 2022

Episode 128: Renovations 101 with Stacy Wray of Prosource

Episode 129: A Few of our Favorite Things

Episode 130: High Point Market Trends Spring 2022 From Designers Across the U.S.

Episode 131: Our Top 6 Favorite Episodes

Episode 132: Author Kelli Lamb - Home With Rue

Episode 133: Inside Design with Kandrac and Kole with Entrepreneur, Educator, and Public Speaker, David Thurston

Episode 134: How to Survive A Home Renovation with Kandrac and Kole Client Cindy Murphy

Episode 135: Inside Design with Kandrac and Kole with Guest Mally Skok

Episode 136: Inside Design with Kandrac and Kole with Guest Photographer Emily Followill

Episode 137: Monetizing Your Social Media and Getting Your Face on Camera with Guest Julianne Taylor

Episode 138: Sherwin Williams Colormix Forecast 2023

Episode 139: Live Recording From The Design Influencers Conference In Atlanta Part 1

Episode 140: Live Recording From The Design Influencers Conference In Atlanta Part 2

Episode 141: How We Navigate Design Post Pandemic

Episode 142: Everything You Need To Know About Custom Window Treatments

Episode 143: Our Top Twelve Product Recs Worth Buying

Episode 144: Our Trip To The Kohler Factory

Episode 145: Highpoint Fall 2022 Trends

Episode 146: Guest Molly Schoneveld, The Storied Group PR

Episode 147: Answering Your Design Questions

Episode 148: 2022 Year In Review

BIO:

SPONSOR:

Outrageous Interiors

Outrageous Interiors is a family-owned retail store in Atlanta that’s been around for 34 years. They’ve got 4 locations–Alpharetta, Suwanee, Marietta, and Kennesaw. The husband-and-wife team of Kurt and Patti Gosch do an amazing job sourcing everything from furniture to rugs to lamps and accessories. They have a large inventory that they sell off their floor, so it’s a go-to shop for us when we need something in a pinch. Even though they have 15 talented in-house designers, they are also very trade friendly. They are very active on social media–especially Instagram–so check them out @outrageousinteriors. You will be very impressed!

Answering Your Design Questions

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0200

Today on Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole, we answer ten exciting questions that we received from our amazing listeners. Join us as we discuss upcoming trends, where to start when redesigning your home, and the biggest game changer that helped us grow our business. At the end of the episode, we talk about our favorite projects in 2022. We love connecting with our listeners and helping aspiring business owners and designers, so tune in today to get all your answers!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:25] Question 1: Did we ever want to evolve to the level we are at now? Do we ever wish we could go back to just Kelly and Joann?
[05:43] Question 2: What is our favorite new design trend?
[07:03] Question 3: Should trim, shutters, and walls all be the same color, or should there be contrast?
[07:51] Question 4: How do you develop or create a color palette for a project?
[10:25] Question 5: What is the perfect white paint for interior walls?
[13:05] Question 6: Thoughts about two islands in the kitchen?
[14:50] Question 7: What is one thing we did that was a game changer in our business that we wish we would have done sooner?
[19:28] Question 8: What do we think of stick on wallpaper?
[21:22] Question 9: How does one begin updating their home?
[26:02] Question 10: What is our favorite project and why?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

New trends for 2023 include more color and different varieties of rattan in furniture, lighting and casegoods. When choosing trend pieces, choose things that can be temporary because trends change, and/or you may get tired of the pieces over time. Use trends as accent pieces to allow for versatility and updates.
Getting on video was the biggest game changer for Inside Design with Kandrac and Kole. Google loves video, it's great for SEO, and social media is moving towards video for success.
Paint and updated accent lighting can make a huge difference in your design if you don’t have the funds to do a significant overhaul. The next step would be updating your home room by room.

RESOURCE LINKS:

The Storied Group Website

BIO:

SPONSOR:

Outrageous Interiors

Outrageous Interiors is a family-owned retail store in Atlanta that’s been around for 34 years. They’ve got 4 locations – Alpharetta, Suwanee, Marietta and Kennesaw. The husband-and-wife team of Kurt and Patti Gosch do an amazing job sourcing everything from furniture to rugs to lamps and accessories. They have a large inventory that they sell off their floor so it’s a go to shop for us when we need to find something in a pinch. Even though they have 15 talented in-house designers, they are also very trade friendly. They are very active on social media – especially Instagram – so check them out @outrageousinteriors. You will be very impressed!

Guest Molly Schoneveld, The Storied Group PR

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 10:00:00 +0200

Today on Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole, we are joined by PR expert Molly Schoneveld. Molly has extensive experience working with companies to grow their publicity. During this episode, she talks to us about the importance of social media while also having a secondary platform that you own, such as a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel. Molly tells us about her predictions for 2023 and where publicity is heading. She then discusses the importance of having a handle on your finances and how to put your mindset above everything else. Tune in today for some excellent tips on growing your audience!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[4:20] Molly tells us about her blog and how that has led her to where she is today.
[7:11] What does Molly mean by social media being like a magazine vs. a sole means for your business?
[10:43] Molly’s predictions for 2023.
[13:51] Where is the best place for designers to show their work?
[16:30] How do businesses decide whether to hire someone to do their social media or not?
[18:48] What does it mean to put your mindset over everything?
[22:46] Molly shares her thoughts on how a business should handle its finances.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Social media should not be your entire strategy for increasing business or advertising since social platforms are out of your control. Email newsletters, podcasts, and blogs are excellent tools since you own them.
Keywords on Pinterest and getting featured on other tastemakers' blogs are a great way to get your name out there and your products seen by more people.
Some small business owners want to ignore finances, but the wiser you are about what's coming in and going out every month will save you. You won't get blindsided if an emergency arises.

RESOURCE LINKS:

The / Sought After Blog

BIO:

Molly Schoneveld

represents the industry’s top interior designers, celebrities, and hotels with 20+ years of experience. She is incredibly selective in who she represents – giving her clients exclusive access to her network-taking them from industry leaders to nationally recognized, house-hold names.

She began her career in Hollywood working directly under Academy award-winning producer Brian Grazer. She was soon recruited to powerhouse entertainment firm PMK where she worked with A-list talent like Kevin Bacon, Gerard Butler and Olivia Wilde.

She started her lifestyle blog, The Sought After, in 2008 as a passion project. and we will let her tell us more about that. (remove the highlighted sentence) Her company, The Storied Group is part of the exclusive list THE PR Net 100 for 2022 and was awarded “Small Agency of the Year” by the Bulldog Stars of PR Awards in 2019.

Kandrac & Kole was voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, and has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine, and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well-known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern, and their one-of-a-kind, custom designs.

SPONSOR:

If you are a designer or a homeowner, you should have Cosentino on your radar as your first choice for quartz products. Cosentino is the maker of Silestone – a hybrid surface of premium minerals, quartz, and recycled materials.

Dekton is Cosentino’s innovative ultracompact surface, a technological material composed of a blend of raw materials, porcelain, and glass. It is perfect in both home, hospitality, and outdoor projects because of its high strength and versatility. You will find Silestone in millions of homes in over 100 countries and in most of Kandrac & Kole projects. We always turn to Cosentino for their innovation and commitment to sustainability. Visit https://www.cosentino.com to learn more about their product and their new city centers – an exclusive meeting place for professionals who seek to share ideas, stay ahead of market trends, and to take part in innovative experiences and activities.

Highpoint Fall 2022 Trends

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 10:00:00 +0200

Today on Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole, Kelly and Joann talk about their trip to the 2022 High Point Market. This year, Joann and Kelly were invited to lead a guided Insider Tour for up and coming designers, or anyone interested in design. Joann and Kelly discuss their amazing tour group they got to lead through the market, the incredible dinner they had with the founders of Thompson Traders, Fall trends of 2022, as well as the upcoming 2023 trends. Tune in today to get all the design tips for 2023!

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:31] What is Highpoint Market?
[2:43] What did the Insider Tour look like at Highpoint Market?
[8:40] We talk about the dinner party with the Thompsons, founders of Thompson Traders.
[11:03] The importance of engaging with brands in an intimate setting.
[13:00] We break down the 2023 Trends.
[18:58] Color forecast for 2023.
[23:22] What outdoor collections are rolling out?
[24:04] Boucle and sherpa is a trend arising for 2023.
[25:31] What did we learn about rattan?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Trends for 2023: nesting coffee tables, modular sofas, sectionals, soft curves on furniture, 70s vibe,
The pandemic has created a demand for sectionals and outdoor furniture.
As a designer, it is vital to get to know brands on an intimate level. Attending tradeshows, tours of their warehouses, etc., are great ways to be “in the know” about trends and design ideas.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Highpoint Market Website

Thompson Trader Website

BIO:

SPONSOR:

Visit GABBY at a to-the-trade showroom in Atlanta, High Point, or Dallas. While you are there, check out some of our all-time favorites, like the Gregory Chandelier, the Ainsworth Coffee Table, and the Callisto Mirror. For a special offer on your next order, go to gabbyhome.com/kk.

Our Trip To The Kohler Factory

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 09:00:00 +0200

Today on Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole, Kelly and Joann talk about their much anticipated trip to the Kohler campus in Wisconsin. While there, they were able to tour the Kohler factory, visit the archive room, the Design Center and of course the infamous Kohler Spa. As interior designers, Kelly and Joann love to get a behind the scenes look at a brand and experience an immersion into not only the company’s products, but their culture. Tune in for insight into the Kohler brand.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:00] Joann and Kelly’s experience in Wisconsin visiting Kohler.
[09:00] More on the factory tour of Kohler.
[16:00] Checking out faucets, sinks, tubs, shower components and more at the Design Center.
[20:00] Joann and Kelly discuss their favorite styles, finishes and technology on the Kohler website.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

A factory tour gives an intimate behind the scenes look into a company so that visitors can learn how products are crafted, the history of the company and how they prepare operations for the future.
Understanding the technology and craftsmanship of products helps designers build an allegiance to a particular brand.
Taking the time to learn about new brands can open up opportunities and inspiration for design projects.

RESOURCE LINKS:

http://hello.studiodesigner.com/eventskandk.

Kohler Website

BIO:

Kandrac & Kole was voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, and has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern and their one of a kind, custom designs.

As industry experts for residential and commercial design, Joann Kandrac & Kelly Kole share upbeat and entertaining narratives regarding their design projects, travels and personal stories on their popular blog, their podcast and via national speaking engagements. Joann and Kelly’s love and commitment to the power of interior design also extends towards their charity work throughout the U.S. and Guatemala.

SPONSOR:

Studio Designer is a project management, product sourcing and accounting platform for the interior design industry. It is a designer-specific software that features an all-in-one project management system,where you can propose, order,invoice all project items, as well as track team activities.They Have been in business for 30 + years and are near and dear to our hearts as we started working with them about 15 years ago.We don’t know how we would run our business without them. From the proposal to invoice to orders to financial reports, it is so efficient and keeps us extremely organized.Studio Designerhas an exclusive offer to Inside Design listeners-$100 off anyStudio Designer Onboarding Services. This offer is valid through December 31, 2022. If you are an interior designer and not using industry specific software, you need to check them out at

Our Top Twelve Product Recs Worth Buying

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0200

Decades in the interior design business have taught Joann and Kelly which products are worth investing in and where creativity can come into play. Joann and Kelly bring this expertise and guidance to their clients, and consider it one of their greatest values as interior designers. On this episode of Inside Design with Kandrac & Kole- they are sharing their Top Twelve quality products, like lighting, rugs, art pieces and more- that are worth investing in. Tune in for inspiration for your next home project.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:35] Investing in high-end upholstery.
[07:30] The mix of high-end and budget items you can get with primary and secondary lighting.
[12:53] Rugs: The importance of investing in the right size and quality.
[15:00] How art makes the home and how to invest in the right mix.
[20:53] Choosing functional nightstands.
[25:00] Stair railings and hardware- to update or not?
[26:00] Electrical updates- worth it to make the changes!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Take the time to consider your goals to determine which high end products you will invest in and what areas to get creative in.
Investing in quality items that last is the key to getting your money’s worth on items and updates.
Get creative in certain areas of your budget- but don’t skimp on the things that are used the most and focal points of your home.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Kandrac and Kole Instagram

BIO:

Kandrac & Kole was voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, and has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern and their one of a kind, custom designs.

SPONSOR:

This episode is sponsored by Gabby Home. Gabby is one of our go-to brands for everything from upholstery to lighting to case goods. Their transitional designs are easy to insert into any project. We really relied on Gabby during the pandemic because they were able to maintain some reasonable inventories.Visit GABBY at a to-the-trade showroom in Atlanta, High Point orDallas. While you are there check out some of our all-time favorites like theGregoryChandelier, the Ainsworth Coffee Table and the Callisto Mirror. For a special offer for the Design Trade, go to gabbyhome.com/kk

Everything You Need To Know About Custom Window Treatments

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 09:00:00 +0200

Even with the most picturesque view, great window treatments finish a room. Today, Joann and Kelly are joined by Tracie Bresnahan, the owner of Custom Creations with an impressive history in the home apparel industry. The three make a compelling case for investing in custom window treatments that will last. Tune in to this episode to hear about the importance of hardware, working with a designer, and having a great installer.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:35] Tracie talks about some common downfalls of ready-made window treatments.
[07:48] Working with a designer to create custom window treatments.
[09:15] The role hardware plays in window treatments.
[17:07] Tracie shares how people fall in love with motorization.
[23:01] Even shower curtains can benefit from being customized.
[25:27] Why having a trusted installer is crucial.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

It does cost more to have custom window treatments, but it is an investment that will last. The quality of custom window treatments far outweighs ready-made window treatments.
It is important to contact a designer for custom window treatments. There is so much more involvement than just measuring and picking a fabric.
A trusted installer is crucial to the end product.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Kandrac and Kole Website

Kandrac and Kole Facebook

Custom Creations Website

BIO:

Kandrac & Kole was voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, and has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern and their one of a kind, custom designs.

Tracie Bresnahan holds a bachelor’s degree in ApparelEngineering and a Master's degree in Quality AssuranceTechnology from Southern PolytechnicState University. She worked in the apparel and consumer products industries for 17years. Tracie openedCustom Creationsin 1996, fabricating custom window treatments and accessories. With her engineering background, she has built a business specializing in one-of-a-kind and challenging design solutions for clients as well as custom-designed upholstered furniture. Collaborating with her on some of her projects is her husband Brian, who has a degree in architectural engineering. He is a huge asset in designing and building custom projects with her for clients. She has been honored with several window-covering awards. 2020 Workroom of the Year•Member–Window Coverings Assoc. of America (WCAA)10+ years•WCAA National President, 2018-present•Atlanta Chapter Publicity Chairperson, 2013-2018•Atlanta Chapter Past President, 2012-2014•Atlanta ChapterPresident 2010-2012•Atlanta Chapter Secretary, Treasurer and Industry Partner Liaison (8 years)•Featured presenter at annual International Window Coverings Expo, 2010 and 2011

SPONSOR:

This episode is sponsored by Maxim Lighting. Maxim Lighting is a family-owned company founded byJacob Sperling, who immigrated to the United States and built this global brand as a creative visionary. Known for lighting fixtures that flawlessly mix the latest metals and technology into iconic designs, Maxim Lighting honors traditional, timeless styles while embracing the latest home fashions. Maxim speaks to today’s sophisticated designers and consumers who understand good design, quality, originality, and demand quality craftsmanship. Maxim Lighting is deeply grounded in family as the next generation of Sperlings, Naomi, Nathan, Adena andDahlia strengthen and expand the capabilities of the brand. The company’s family values and gratitude towards its loyal clientele shine through new ideas, new designs, and new services that come from a grounded tradition of customer service and excellence. Check them out at https://www.maximlighting.com.

How We Navigate Design Post Pandemic

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 09:00:37 +0200

It’s crazy to think that it’s been almost three years since the world shut down due to the pandemic. There’s no denying that the interior design industry has been greatly affected in many ways over the last three years. Today Joann and Kelly share how they kept their projects flowing, their clients happy, and overcame endless challenges throughout the pandemic. Tune in to this episode to learn how Joann and Kelly navigated the pandemic and where the interior design industry stands today.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:50] Why customer communication and transparency are so important for Joann and Kelly.
[04:46] Why having your design team involved at the start of a project is a good idea.
[05:30] How Joann and Kelly’s team works together to manage every step of each project.
[09:40] Maintaining relationships with trusted vendors and manufacturers in today’s design industry.
[18:33] Joann and Kelly share how trying new products and materials can really pay off.
[22:10] How Joann and Kelly adapted to longer turnaround times for product installs or shipping delays.
[27:30] Important Announcements.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Making sure your clients enter a project with realistic expectations and understanding of lead times will positively impact their expectations and overall experience.
People want things quickly, but in the end, if you really wait for the piece that you want, it will be worth it.
Designers cannot have all of their eggs in one basket. Having one upholsterer, one framer, one contractor, etc. can backfire if that vendor gets backed up or is understaffed and cannot provide the products and services they did before.
In such a demanding industry, you cannot just sit back and let things happen to you. Being able to pivot quickly and alter business practices is crucial to survival.

RESOURCE LINKS:

HGTV Website

HGTV Designer Of The Year

HGTV-VOTE For Designer Of The Year-Living Large In Small Spaces

Highpoint Insiders Tour

Tour Highpoint Market with Kandrac & Kole Interior Designs, Inc.

BIO:

Kandrac & Kole was voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, and has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern and their one of a kind, custom designs.

Live Recording From The Design Influencers Conference In Atlanta Part 2

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 09:00:16 +0200

We are excited to share Part 2 of our first ever on location episode at the Design Influencers Conference at the Hyatt Atlanta. Today, we have more friends and colleagues talking to us about their businesses and why the Design Influencers Conference is so important for them to attend. A lot of our conversation centers around the ever-changing influence of social media and how TikTok is set to outperform Google as the preferred search engine. We also talk about how designers have to consider the growing needs of aging clients and how safety and beauty can coexist in design.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[01:56] Nancy Mikulich – Oasis Home
[06:19] Bridget King – Captiva Design
[10:15] Amy Flurry – Paper Cut Project, Alokahome, Recipe for Press and Rachel Moriarty – Rachel M. Interiors
[19:50] Leslie Caruthers – Savour Partnership, Ethos Design Collective, Design Happy Living
[28:50] Mitzi Beach – Interior Designer, Author

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Tik Tok is on its way to overtake Google as the preferred search engine for users. Business owners have to realize that unless they innovate, they are at risk to evaporate.
In this digital age, it’s no longer just about showing off yourself or your business - it’s about giving and sharing valuable information to users.
We encourage designers to expand their knowledge and awareness of how to create a safer and more livable home for the aging demographics. Safety and beauty can coincide in interior design. Unbelievably, boomers account for $59 trillion of spending compared to millennials at just $5 trillion.

BIO:

Kandrac & Kole was voted one of Atlanta’s Top 20 Residential Interior Designs by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, and has been featured on HGTV as well as in The New York Times, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles, Better Homes & Gardens, Southern Home Magazine and many others as well as participants of the One Room Challenge Spring 2020. Kandrac & Kole has established a well known reputation for their approachable, dynamic personalities, their signature use of color and pattern and their one of a kind, custom designs.