Business of Home Podcast

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 SuryaLINKSThe Jenni Kayne FarmhouseBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSJamie BushDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 SuryaLINKSMichael Graves Design X Pottery BarnBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSAbner HenryDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 SuryaLINKSMiller SamuelBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSHector FinchDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 PorterLINKSStudio DesignerMyDomaBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSOlive AteliersDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 PorterLINKSThe Unoriginal Bathroom Co.Business of Home

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 Loloi and Isla PorterLINKSJomo FurnitureJomo TarikuDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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. LINKSSavvy Giving by Design Business of Home

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 LoloiLINKSRock House Farm Dennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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.LINKSApartment TherapyBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSThomas LavinQuintusDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSBernhardtDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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. LINKSRosemary HallgartenThibautBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSThe World of InteriorsDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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.LINKSThe Magazine AntiquesMitchell OwensBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSMarkham RobertsDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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.LINKSBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSThe Brownstone BoysDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 fairsThis episode is sponsored by LoloiLINKSThe Textile EyeBusiness of Home

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 LoloiLINKSVerellenDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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.LINKSGrant TrickBusiness of Home

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 SelkeLINKSStephen Treffinger Business of Home

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 HandsLINKSBuchanan StudioDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 SelkeLINKSBusiness of Home

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 HandsLINKSSilverLiningDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 SelkeLINKSJustina BlakeneyBusiness of Home's book clubBusiness of Home

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 HandsLINKSJulie HillmanDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 SelkeLINKSBusiness of Home's book clubBusiness of Home

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 HandsLINKSBryan O'SullivanDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 SelkeLINKSBusiness of Home's book clubBusiness of Home

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&ForbesLINKSNathan TurnerDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 SelkeLINKSHigh Point MarketBusiness of Home

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 themThis episode is sponsored by The Shade Store and Hartmann&ForbesLINKSSchafer Buccellato ArchitectsDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 SelkeLINKSGreat Ocean Road AdvisorsBusiness of Home

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&ForbesLINKSCharles & CoDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 SelkeLINKSDavid AdlerBusiness of Home

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&ForbesLINKSOliver FurthOp! Optimistic InteriorsDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 HouseLINKSBusiness of Home

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 CryptonLINKSTom ScheererDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 HouseLINKSDebra Kamin Business of Home

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 CryptonLINKSLoloiDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 HouseLINKSTimothy CorriganBusiness of Home

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 CryptonLINKSVeere GrenneyDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

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 HouseLINKSLaura FentonBusiness of Home

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 CryptonLINKSSibyl Colefax & John FowlerDennis ScullyBusiness of Home

BOH managing editor Haley Chouinard joins 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 LoloiLINKSFirmdale HotelsKit KempBusiness of Home

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 MintedLINKSThe Future PerfectDennis ScullyBusiness of Home