The Install: Life & Design with Paloma and Caroline

Paloma has two new hires and a welcome reminder that a full calendar can also be a sign of abundance; Caroline has family travel on the horizon and very little tolerance left for television gore. On the design front, the ladies question why hiring a professional should come with a hundred fabric samples’ worth of homework—and make the case for floors that will outlast a trend. A seemingly innocent game of what they’d give up quickly becomes a negotiation over chintz, designer clothes, and whether vacations and beauty treatments are constitutionally protected. They close with advice on tricky vendors: extend grace, follow up, and know when being nice needs to become being firm. Subscribe and follow Subscribe to The Install Edit on Substack: https://theinstallpodcast.substack.com/ YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast TikTok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign TikTok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign TikTok: @carolinegidieredesignbts ShopMy: @carolinegidiere Music attribution Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: SUDAKA5LHSDHNL85 Chapters 00:00 Impossible Choices 00:39 Birmingham Afterglow 03:18 High Point Plans 05:20 Growing the Team 08:24 Recognizing Abundance 13:18 Sleepless Nights 15:30 Family Travel 17:31 Television Troubles 22:17 Designer Homework 29:04 Timeless Floors 34:09 Giving Things Up 35:21 Chintz Negotiations 36:42 Books or Television 40:52 Vacations or Vanity 41:34 Fabrics or Fashion 42:46 Instagram or TikTok 44:36 Bread or Cheese 45:33 Wallpaper or Furniture 47:03 Tricky Vendor Relationships 53:55 Until Next Week

Together in Birmingham, Paloma and Caroline find Antiques at the Gardens tickets approaching black-market status and their social calendars threatening a perfectly respectable bedtime. Between Caroline's Harry Styles high and an accidental three-pair sunglasses purchase, they launch “Gracious or Graceless,” passing judgment on early arrivals, shoes-off parties, reclining airline seats, and the delicate business of telling someone there’s spinach in her teeth. The etiquette extends to design: borrowed ideas, unsolicited requests for sources, and knowing when inspiration has become imitation. The ladies finish with advice for a renter facing honey oak—and a welcome reminder that an unfinished house is no reason to put your life on hold. Subscribe and follow Subscribe to The Install Edit on Substack: https://theinstallpodcast.substack.com/ YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast TikTok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign TikTok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign TikTok: @carolinegidieredesignbts ShopMy: @carolinegidiere Music attribution Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: SUDAKA5LHSDHNL85 Chapters Birmingham Together Antiques After HoursWeekly HighsHarry’s House PartySunglasses in TriplicateSunscreen Discussion*Gracious or GracelessArrival EtiquetteShoes Off?Spinach DiplomacyTable MannersFree Design AdviceClient KnockoffsReclining RightsInspiration Versus ImitationResource RequestsParty PostsRegifting RulesSending It BackHoney Oak HelpPermission to WaitOn the Road

Paloma reports from the Southern Living Idea House in Texas, where the rooms are ready for their close-up—and her hotel room could use a second opinion. Caroline returns from a dreamy Alexandria project visit to a sofa saga involving disappearing yardage, multiplying delays, and enough chintz to test anyone’s composure. Between a spirited debate over whether audiobooks count as reading and a fall-fashion review featuring questionable shoes, purple sweatpants, and opposing views on satin shorts, the ladies have notes. They finish with thoughtful gifts for the designer in your life—with one important distinction between a grand gesture and a measuring tape. Subscribe and FollowSubscribe to The Install Edit on Substack: https://theinstallpodcast.substack.com/ YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast TikTok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign TikTok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign TikTok: @carolinegidieredesignbts ShopMy: @carolinegidiere Music AttributionMusic licensed through Soundstripe. Code: SUDAKA5LHSDHNL85 Chapters00:16 — Texas Reveal 02:16 — Hill Country 06:00 — Calamity Club 08:01 — Reading Rules 10:38 — Southern Storytelling 17:41 — Opening Night 20:28 — Hotel Hangups 24:04 — Thoughtful Design 27:13 — Lived Experience 29:59 — Shower Politics 31:24 — Alexandria Homecoming 33:14 — Sofa Saga 43:11 — Holding the Bag 47:22 — Fall Forecast 48:40 — Fluffy Business 51:27 — Evening Affairs 53:47 — Gothic Florals 55:01 — Playful Proportions 55:52 — Bomber Debate 57:46 — Burgundy Season 58:09 — Suede Versus Leather 1:00:36 — Questionable Shoes 1:03:35 — Purple Reign 1:05:33 — Finishing Touches 1:07:05 — Satin Showdown 1:09:17 — Designer Gifts 1:13:10 — Until Next Time

Paloma and Caroline begin with September overload, tennis trauma, and the apparently unreasonable notion that opponents should hit the ball somewhere you can actually reach it. Then they welcome Annie Meyers-Shyer, whose path from Harper’s Bazaar and Chanel to the beloved This Oak House proves that a sharp eye is only the beginning—the details, collaboration, and occasional plywood mock-up make the room. Annie shares how she preserved the soul of her Gerard Colcord house, built an audience by pulling back the curtain on renovation, and learned to follow “the next right thing.” Plus: why balance is a fallacy, living rooms are underrated, and fake cutting boards should be shown the door. Subscribe and FollowSubscribe to The Install Edit on Substack: https://theinstallpodcast.substack.com/ YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast TikTok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign TikTok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign TikTok: @carolinegidieredesignbts ShopMy: @carolinegidiere Chapters00:17 — September Scramble02:24 — Fitness High03:41 — Tennis Trouble07:50 — Television Tolerance12:48 — Austen Adaptations14:22 — Meet Annie17:33 — Fashion Foundations21:04 — Defining Taste24:15 — Designer Collaboration28:55 — Finding Home31:05 — Colcord Character32:34 — Preservation Pressure33:53 — Hard Decisions36:59 — Let It Breathe38:50 — Sharing Sources41:49 — Balance Fallacy44:56 — Storytelling Homes48:07 — Rapid Fire52:20 — Phase Two54:24 — Birmingham Bound Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: SUDAKA5LHSDHNL85

Part Two strips the lacquer off designer showhouses: behind those glossy rooms are six-figure budgets, vendor favors, impossible timelines, and enough last-minute crises to qualify as cardio. Caroline and Paloma trade war stories involving rejection from the stone sponsor, rugs stuck in customs, draperies four feet too short, and 145 yards of fabric mysteriously disappearing into a valance. But there is a reason designers keep coming back: one memorable room can lead to clients, press, product collaborations, stronger teams—and some highly effective “trauma bonding.” They close with a rapid-fire guide to what to install, what to avoid, and why doing two traditional showhouses in one year might be just a little bit unhinged. Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: 1O1ULMY5AYH4LV7G Follow The InstallSubscribe to The Install Edit on Substack for more design talk, behind-the-scenes stories, product finds, and installments of Ask the Install. The Install YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast TikTok: @theinstallpocast Paloma Website: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign TikTok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline Website: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign TikTok: @carolinegidieredesignbts ShopMy: @carolinegidiere Chapters00:16 — Part Two 01:23 — Budget Reality 03:07 — Sponsor Strategy 09:37 — Vendor Drama 12:04 — Loans & Sales 15:05 — Tight Timelines 17:34 — Plan Z 18:25 — Disaster Stories 26:40 — Drama City 27:47 — Stay Organized 30:23 — The Payoff 34:01 — Hidden Returns 36:52 — PR Strategy 38:58 — Bankroll It 40:09 — Saying No 43:20 — Rapid Fire 48:46 — Dream Showhouses

Episode SummaryPaloma and Caroline continue to endure the on-going Southern summer heat and humidity, a Botox clock that suddenly seems to be running fast, and the Sisyphean task of growing out one’s hair—fortified by probiotic ice cream and a root touch-up pen stashed in the car console. They celebrate Substack’s slower, meatier charms and make a spirited case for shelter magazines to come back thicker, more beautiful, and worth paying for. Then the gloves come off on designer showhouses: career-making exposure, multiple-six-figure rooms, the glamour of being assigned a basement hallway, and the hard-won truth that one great photograph can matter more than square footage. Part one ends with the volume turned up—and the really juicy disasters still waiting in the wings. Follow The InstallSubscribe to The Install Edit on Substack for weekly essays, product links, behind-the-scenes extras, and the next installment of Ask the Install. The Install YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast TikTok: @theinstallpocast Paloma Website: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign TikTok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline Website: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign TikTok: @carolinegidieredesignbts ShopMy: @carolinegidiere Chapters00:17 — Heat Wave 02:16 — Beauty Maintenance 04:20 — Full-Fat Treats 07:44 — Hair Rescue 11:28 — Substack Revival 14:25 — Industry News 15:34 — Print Matters 19:42 — Showhouse Secrets 22:17 — Showhouse History 23:38 — Career Momentum 26:53 — Basement Reality 30:49 — Invitation Only 32:50 — Room Strategy 35:13 — Budget Shock 36:40 — Small Spaces 39:07 — Creative Freedom 43:44 — Announcement of Part Two

Paloma and Caroline sweat through the last gasps of summer while tackling a still-suspicious rug, the indignity of hauling two Apple devices in one tote, a bittersweet staff change, a possible Sussex homecoming, and Vanity Fair’s best-dressed list—including the eternal question of whether Lenny Kravitz is technically dressed at all. Then they tumble headfirst into the RushTok rabbit hole, where reported $20,000 dorm rooms, chinoiserie lamps, Broadway-worthy recruitment numbers, and corporate sponsorships prompt the only sensible conclusion: girl, get to class. Keep the conversation going between episodes: Subscribe to The Install Edit on Substack for more from Caroline and Paloma. YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast TikTok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign TikTok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign TikTok: @carolinegidieredesignbts ShopMy: @carolinegidiere 00:18 — Summer Heat 01:25 — Rug Rescue 06:40 — PowerBook Problems 09:34 — Bag Baggage 13:53 — Embracing Change 18:54 — Royal Return 25:37 — Best Dressed 33:11 — Dorm Décor 39:42 — Too Much? 47:22 — RushTok Rabbit Hole 55:41 — Brand Invasion 58:24 — Rush Anxiety

Caroline’s ideal weekend—pool time, Mahjong, and a teenager who voluntarily wants to hang out—meets its natural nemesis: a Starbucks that forgot to open, while Paloma celebrates Margot’s first day of kindergarten and reflects on a painfully heavy run of news. The mood lifts with a revealing identity game in which Caroline emerges as an orange, Easter-loving Sunday-morning smoothie, while Paloma is an olive-green, Valentine-loving Friday night with unmistakable croissant energy. Then they put “chic” on linguistic probation, make a surprisingly persuasive case for a little gatekeeping, and sentence balloon trousers, board shorts, and several other late-summer trends to fashion jail. Keep the conversation going between episodes: Subscribe to The Install Edit on Substack for more from Caroline and Paloma. YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast TikTok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign TikTok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign TikTok: @carolinegidieredesignbts ShopMy: @carolinegidiere Chapters00:17 — Mahjong Magic 04:14 — Starbucks Chaos 06:52 — Kindergarten 10:25 — Heavy News 16:51 — Personality Game 27:18 — Chic Overload 32:46 — Gatekeeping 40:03 — Scarf Season 41:40 — Retro Summer 44:03 — Peplum Problems 46:35 — Fashion Feeling 48:06 — Utility Mode 49:10 — Sporty Spice 51:06 — Sign-Off

Paloma plans a trip to Paris Deco Off trip while Caroline uses Lionsgate to manifest the number-one interior-design podcast, one “big, fabulous, juicy nugget” of a project, and a back that survives two dogs sleeping on her feet. Meg Braff joins for a gloriously wide-ranging conversation spanning her new book, Gracious Interiors, her vibrant wallpaper and fabrics line, her time as an ambassador for U.S. Cottton, Scorpio jewelry, Palm Beach light, and more. Along the way, she makes the case for client chemistry over giant budgets, starting every project with a floor plan, and letting the house tell you what it wants. Subscribe to the Substack for more: @theinstallpodcastYouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast Tik Tok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign Tik Tok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign Tik Tok: @carolinegidieredesignbts Shop My: @carolinegidiere Chapters00:16 — School Days 01:31 — Paris Plans 06:25 — Manifesting 11:18 — Growing Pains 13:10 — Meg Braff 15:42 — Miss Cotton 18:04 — Morning Rituals 20:06 — Scorpio Club 22:46 — Shop Talk 27:39 — Pattern Archives 30:47 — Design Process 36:42 — Client Chemistry 39:19 — Floor Plans 42:09 — Rapid Fire 45:06 — Guest Edit 49:26 — Book Tour

Caroline and Paloma tackle underarm “chicken nuggets,” summer-camp chaos, and a once-pristine abaca rug under canine attack. They trade television recommendations, debate Nantucket’s “No Influencers” dustup, and consider the many ways money can whisper—or flex. They close with candid advice for aspiring designers: keep overhead low, hire carefully, and recognize when someone is in over their head. The Install Podcast is now on Substack. Subscribe today! YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast Tik Tok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign Tik Tok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign Tik Tok: @carolinegidieredesignbts Shop My: @carolinegidiere Chapters00:16 — Chicken Nuggets 06:48 — Weekly Recap 10:57 — Kitchen Comeback 13:44 — Rug Rescue 22:31 — Screen Time 30:14 — Cheer Pressure 34:22 — Influencer Wars 41:35 — Design Careers 44:44 — Smart Growth 47:32 — Costly Lessons 51:31 — Sign-Off

Caroline and Paloma battle triple-digit heat, post-surgery recovery, and a case of TikTok-certified “tech neck” before celebrating the multigenerational client relationships that make interior design feel like a family affair. Then they reveal the things truly worth the splurge—from French butter and signature fragrance to the perfect white T-shirt, an indestructible suitcase, and the workout subscription the internet loves to hate. They close with two artful new collaborations and a master class in scale, proving that when in doubt, go bigger, hide the lamp harp, and never underestimate the diagnostic powers of a cardboard box. Help us row the Podcast! We would be so grateful if you take a minute to subscribe, like, rate, review and download! Subscribe to The Install Edit on Substack! YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast Tik Tok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign Tik Tok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign Tik Tok: @carolinegidieredesignbts Shop My: @carolinegidiere Chapters00:13 — Heat Wave 02:44 — Highs & Lows 04:45 — Tech Neck 10:49 — Family Ties 15:45 — Install Updates 20:39 — Paloma’s Picks 27:19 — Caroline’s Picks 42:25 — Chic Collabs 44:08 — Artful Fashion 48:56 — Scale School 57:36 — Sign-Off

Fan favorite Bryan Huffman returns—gloriously uncensored—to review the seven deadly sins of polite conversation before whisking us back inside Bunny Mellon’s world at Oak Spring. He spills on no-tape gift wrapping, microscopic vegetables, Lay’s potato chips, ice in wine, Porthault linens, and Givenchy “armor,” while revealing the humor, discipline, generosity, and tenderness behind an American icon. Consider this your invitation to luncheon—just don’t discuss your sleep score, diet, or route there. Follow The Install Podcast YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast TikTok: @theinstallpocast Follow Paloma Paloma: www.palomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign TikTok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Follow Caroline Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign TikTok: @carolinegidieredesignbts ShopMy: @carolinegidiere Chapters00:15 — Bryan Is Back 01:18 — Social Studies 10:10 — Southern Manners 12:35 — Picky Eaters 16:54 — Inside Oak Spring 21:14 — Art Without Fuss 23:04 — Wrapping, Bunny-Style 26:36 — The Bunny Bar 30:52 — Luncheon Is Served 37:30 — The Famous Cabbage 39:13 — Bunny and the Swans 41:54 — Giving It Back 45:57 — Porthault and Old Money 50:11 — Givenchy as Armor 55:37 — Champagne for Eliza 1:02:23 — Bryan Signs Off

Paloma and Caroline take a conversational tour starting with Caroline’s one-and-done push-up and the psychological tyranny of a kitchen-island pile to the comforts of office routine, their new Substack, The Install Edit, and a heartfelt remembrance of Urban Electric founder Dave Dawson. Along the way, they celebrate couture craftsmanship, referee World Cup loyalties, review royal and Wimbledon fashion, debate marriage, motherhood, and women’s financial independence, compare an overly affectionate ChatGPT with a judgmental Claude, and issue a unanimous restraining order against men’s flip-flops. They close with a spirited defense of interior design timelines and fees—part business reality check, part closing argument. Substack: The Install Edit Instagram: @theinstallpodcast Tik Tok: @theinstallpocast YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Paloma: www.paolomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign Tik Tok: @palomacontrerasdesign Caroline:www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign Tik Tok: @carolinegidieredesignbts Shop My: @carolinegidiere 00:13 — One Push-Up and Weekly Highs 02:39 — Routines, Travel, and Resetting 05:10 — Cluttered Home, Cluttered Mind 08:39 — The Install Edit Returns to Writing 12:52 — Remembering Dave Dawson 15:53 — Couture as Creative Energy 20:17 — The Beautiful Game 25:09 — Royals, Reunions, and Wimbledon Fashion 30:18 — Marriage, Motherhood, and Independence 34:52 — ChatGPT Bestie, Claude Scold 37:46 — Hot Takes and Men’s Feet 39:41 — How Long Design Takes 42:05 — You Can’t Rush Creativity 45:04 — The Real Value of Design 50:06 — Twenty-Five Hours Is Nothing 51:18 — Spicy Caroline Signs Off

Paloma and Caroline open with a moment of horticultural hubris: Caroline’s geraniums are giving English-country-house abundance, while Paloma’s are still auditioning for the role of “weed.” From there, they celebrate an anniversary and revisit a very-of-its-moment 2005 wedding dress, mourn Chanel’s decision to discontinue beloved beauty staples, confess to needing a vacation from their addiction to planning vacations, and convene a ruthless Serve or Swerve tribunal. Balloon pants are convicted on sight, oversized button-downs receive strict styling probation, tomato red and signature red nails are vigorously defended, and the dreaded “dumb-length” midi skirt is issued a restraining order. There is a plea for men to embrace gray hair and a fantasy trip to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. They close with smart advice for design lovers who want to collaborate with a professional without turning the project into a decorative custody battle and advice on how best to use The Expert and it's time allotment. Want detes and the links? Check out our Substack. Or check out our ShopMy. YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Instagram: @theinstallpodcast Tik Tok: @theinstallpocast Paloma: www.paolomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign Tik Tok: @palomacontrerasdesign ShopMy: @palomacontreras Caroline:www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign Tik Tok: @carolinegidieredesignbts Shop My: @carolinegidiere Chapter list00:35 — The Geranium Games: Green thumbs, green envy, and a lesson from Peppa Pig 06:37 — Highs and Lows: Anniversary flowers and a 2005 wedding dress 08:28 — Chanel Has Some Explaining to Do: Discontinued favorites and makeup-TikTok alternatives 14:45 — The Anxiety of an Empty Calendar: Fourth of July plans, baseball nostalgia, and travel withdrawal 19:31 — Life in Permanent Overdrive: Cortisol, dopamine, spreadsheets, and the spa-retreat solution 22:21 — Serve or Swerve Begins: Balloon pants and silky pajama dressing 26:32 — The Proportions Department: Oversized button-downs, neutral nails, and red-nail loyalty 32:24 — Summer Accessories on Trial: Basket bags, tomato red, and the unworn red shoe 37:11 — Beware the “Dumb Length”: Midi skirts, office flip-flops, and polka-dot theory 43:44 — Men, Embrace the Gray: Mick Jagger, Stevie Nicks, and aging stylishly 49:42 — Listener Question: Loving art and antiques without becoming your own decorator 55:27 — Making the Most of The Expert: How to prepare for a productive design consultation 58:18 — Wrap-up

This week, Caroline and Paloma confess to vacation weight gain, debate whether rosé is sabotaging their summer, and compare notes on concerts, puppies, and peach ice cream. They also dive into the decline of American shelter magazines (with a passionate plea to bring back House & Garden), discuss whether they'd trust a driverless Waymo, share their favorite places to source antiques, and celebrate America's 250th birthday with a nostalgic look back at the Bicentennial and the Colonial Revival craze. Plus: gardening tips, Wimbledon predictions, and a TV recommendation you'll definitely want to binge. Instagram: @theinstallpodcast Tik Tok: @theinstallpocast YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Paloma: www.paolomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign Tik Tok: @palomacontrerasdesign Caroline:www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign Tik Tok: @carolinegidieredesignbts Shop My: @carolinegidiere Chapters00:00 Highs & Lows09:52 Summer Diet Confessions15:50 Geranium Update20:15 Magazine Hot Takes25:30 Waymo: Yes or No?28:50 What We're Watching32:35 America's 250th Birthday37:00 Americana Style43:05 Listener Questions49:30 Wimbledon & Royal Watch

Paloma and Caroline catch up on a chaotic week of puppy parenting, jet lag, birthday prep, travel recovery, and one truly tragic Charles de Gaulle skincare confiscation before diving into the latest design news, including Mark Sikes’s J.McLaughlin collaboration and The Hedges’ David Netto refresh. They also compare wellness routines—from lymphatic drainage to Caroline’s heroic everything-but-the-kitchen-sink smoothie—before getting into listener-submitted design hot takes on gallery walls, trend fatigue, faux chateau cosplay, scallops, baby blue, zellige tile, trim on sheetrock, recessed lighting, off-season travel, linen sheets, and chunky platform heels. Chapters -- Time Stamps 00:15 — Travel Recovery 01:09 — Puppy Drama 03:48 — Dog Wisdom 06:31 — High/Low 07:05 — Lou’s Return 08:20 — Lotion Loss 17:13 — Mark’s Collab 18:14 — The Hedges 21:26 — Wellness Overload 23:09 — Smoothie Era 27:41 — Creatine Gummies 29:13 — Hot Takes 29:48 — Gallery Walls 31:40 — Trend Fatigue 31:55 — Chateau Cosplay 35:16 — Scallop Backlash 35:31 — Baby Blue 36:13 — Wallpaper Fatigue 39:25 — Zellige Overload 41:27 — Sheetrock Trim 43:28 — Recessed Lighting 46:13 — Off-Season Travel 48:21 — Linen Sheets 52:18 — Platform Heels 54:35 — Outro Hot Takes Smoothie Recipe: Powders: IM8 Essentials Pro + Longevity Stack in Flavor Lemon/Orange Kion Creatine Gramms Clear Whey Protein Lemonade Veggies: Handful of frozen chopped kale 1/4 c shredded carrots 3 cubes frozen ginger from Trader Joes Frozen fruits: Handful each of blue berries, pitted cherries, raspberries and 1/2 frozen peach in season Liquids (totaling 1 cup): Juice of 1/2 lemon Aloe Juice from Trader Joes Coconut Water Sprinkle of Sea Salt Instagram: @theinstallpodcast Tik Tok: @theinstallpocast YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Paloma: www.paolomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign Tik Tok: @palomacontrerasdesign Caroline:www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign Tik Tok: @carolinegidieredesignbts Shop My: @carolinegidiere

Paloma and Caroline check in from Cabo and Paris for a vacation-edition catch-up that delivers equal parts glamour, chaos, and practical wisdom. They talk about changing travel plans, the joys of slower vacations, and what it’s like to travel with kids at different ages—from early wake-ups to future shopping buddies and museum eye-rolls. Along the way, they cover Malmaison, Josephine, and Paris museum adventures, Paloma’s very relatable decision to ditch a hotel that wasn’t passing the vibe check, and Caroline’s vacation highs and lows, including a spider bite, a bruised shin, and a deep devotion to French snack food. There’s also a standout product recommendation for taming frizz, followed by a smart and candid design discussion on why decorators should not be hiring the contractor—plus the client red flags that tell you a project may not be the right fit. Chapter Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Paris vs. Cabo 01:14 – Why Paloma changed her original Paris plans 02:48 – Caroline on her first kid-free trip in 20+ years 06:25 – Shopping, Charvet shirts, and museum parenting 07:53 – Malmaison, Lafayette, and Josephine as ultimate style icon 11:08 – Pool days, beach reads, and vacation mode in Cabo 13:23 – Paloma’s hotel horror story and the great Cabo switch 16:52 – High/Low: trusting your instincts on vacation 18:31 – Caroline’s lows: spider bite and shin injury from hell 20:17 – Caroline’s high: beloved French chips and snack obsession 22:01 – Margot cameo! 23:34 – Glass-door mishaps and kid vacation stories 25:17 – Paris celebrates PSG into the wee hours 25:52 – Product Rec: Chris McMillan Styling Balm 30:39 – Design Question: Should a designer hire the contractor? 37:25 – When a client request becomes a red flag 41:51 – Contract redlines, process pushback, and knowing when to walk away 47:42 – Wrap-up: Notre Dame bells, cold weather, cocktails, and a meteor shower Instagram: @theinstallpodcast Tik Tok: @theinstallpocast YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Paloma: www.paolomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign Tik Tok: @palomacontrerasdesign Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign Tik Tok: @carolinegidieredesignbts Shop My: @carolinegidiere

This week, with Caroline recording from Rome, The Install Podcast takes up the subject of travel and how it inspires not just our design but encourages our creativity. This week, we explore: favorite social media accounts,have you had your colors done?are you a hotel snob?Is there a house, city, home, restuarant that stopped you in your tracks?favorite hotels abroad;favorite hotels in the US;the chicest hotel;what makes for a memorable hotel stay;are you an adventurer or a creature of habit when you travel?how design influences the way we see things or approach design;what designers see that most travelers miss;quick fire travel & design favorites:most inspiring citysave or splurge on a hotelhotel chain vs boutique hotelbest gardenfavorite design shop abroadfavorite indulgence while travelingbest hotel bathroomfavorite antique shoppingfavorite local craftfavorite travel souvenirone thing you always photograph Upcoming Design Events: d. Porthatul sale begins June 8 Christopher Spitzmiller Seconds Sale Starts June 12 Newport Design Week and Nantucket By Design events coming up next month, ticket are on sale now! Instagram: @theinstallpodcast Tik Tok: @theinstallpocast YouTube: @theinstalldesignpodcast Paloma: www.paolomacontreras.com Instagram: @palomacontrerasdesign Tik Tok: @palomacontrerasdesign Caroline: www.carolinegidiere.com Instagram: @carolinegidieredesign Tik Tok: @carolinegidieredesignbts Shop My: @carolinegidiere

This week, Paloma and Caroline welcome one of their best friends, Bryan Huffman, an esteemed and celebrated decorator from North Carolina. For the last decade of her life, Bryan chatted every night with style icon Mrs. Paul Mellon, or "Bunny" as her friends called her, became one her closest confidants. In this episode, Bryan shares endearing details of her iconic style and stories of how they became friends, how she and Jacqueline Kennedy developed a close relationship, how Bunny came to purchase her Rothko collection, her generosity, her humor and wit, and many, many more. But before the trio delve into discussions of Mrs. Mellon, they play a new game, "Would you Rather?" - a game of personal preferences and social etiquette. Takeaways Dressing AppropriatelyPersonal PreferencesSocial Etiquette Etiquette for party arrivalThank you notes and giftsTravel and lifestyle preferencesReal estate and property preferencesFriendship with Bunny Mellon Bunny Mellon's unique approach to interior designInfluence of Swedish interiors on Bunny Mellon's aesthetic Chapters 00:00 Dressing Appropriately16:15 Personal Preferences22:22 Etiquette for Party Arrival28:11 Real Estate and Property Preferences33:40 Friendship with Bunny Mellon46:49 Bunny Mellon's Aesthetic01:00:24 Bunny Mellon's Creative Process01:09:20 Bunny Mellon's Humor and Wit

This week Paloma and Caroline sit down with celebrated designer Heidi Callier. Heidi talks candidly about what it takes to run a top interior design firm, the importance of making time to be cretaive, balancing work life and family, finding the right team, how to manage a remote team, how she packages and presents her work, and even the timeline from start to finish. The ladies start with the weekly "High/Low" and move on to a game of "Love It or Hate It." The episode ends with a rapid fire list of questions for Heidi. Takeaways Remote design studiosChallenges of managing multiple projectsImpact of overhead on design businessHighs and lows of the design industry Mixing patterns and textilesChallenges with delayed projects and pricingRemote client presentations and decision-making Influence of Design TrendsBalancing Work and Personal Life Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Studio Setup08:36 Highs and Lows of the Design Industry24:51 Mixing Patterns and Textiles45:16 Challenges with Delayed Projects and Pricing50:44 Influence of Design Trends

Caroline and Paloma take up the topic of Technology & Design - what is relevant and how they are using it. The two open with a discussion and recap of their recent Chinoiserie tour, exploring magnificent houses and gardens. They reflect on the beauty and inspiration of the gardens, as well as the unique experiences at each location. The conversation continues with a discussion of Dior in LA and the emergence of fashion trends for this decade, the influence of older women in culture, what's going on in music, and summer vacation plans. The conversation turns to Technology & Design including the relevance and current use of Instagram, Tik Tok and Pinterest, and whether or not designers need a website these days. Caroline and Paloma also discuss impact of AI in design. The listener question asks tips for mixing patterns and colors. Takeaways Gardens as Timeless BeautyBusiness Model of Historic Houses The influence of older women in culture is increasing, with a focus on celebrating women over 50.AI can be a valuable tool in design, but it cannot replace the experience and discernment of a designer.Mixing patterns and colors in design requires an intuitive approach and can be guided by studying the work of designers with resonating styles. Chapters 00:00 The Chinoiserie Tour27:35 The Magnificent Gardens34:03 The Cost of Stately Homes42:02 The Influence of Older Women in Culture48:19 Music and Concert Plans57:22 The Role of AI in Design

Stylist, Editor and Author Benjamin Rayner joins Paloma and Caroline to delve into what can make a photoshoot magical. The conversation starts with the importance of authenticity in styling and the planning and preparation required. Benjamin shares insights on the philosophy of layering, the balance between clutter and personalization, and the fluidity and evolution of spaces. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability, collaboration, as well as understanding the mood and feeling of the space, and adapting to different environments. He discusses the importance of understanding the designer's aesthetic, creating a style guide, and sharing reference images to guide the styling process. The conversation covers the collaboration between styling and photography, emphasizing the importance of preparation and flexibility. The trio also touch on the expense of photoshoots and different approaches depending on whether you are just getting started or whether you are and established designer. Paloma open the episode with a discussion of their upcoming Chinoiserie tour and the selection of outfits for the trip. Takeaways Styling for Photo ShootsCreating a Layered Home Styling and Photography CollaborationPreparation and FlexibilityChinoiserie Tour and Outfit Selection Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Benjamin Rayner05:41 Craving Personal Elements in Homes11:08 Allowing Spaces to Evolve16:18 Designing for Real Life22:27 Timing and Planning for Photo Shoots28:00 Being a Chameleon in Styling33:26 Styling and Photography Collaboration56:22 Chinoiserie Tour and Outfit Selection

Caroline and Paloma are on location from Belvoir Castle during their recent tour of treasure houses and stately homes in the United Kingdom that hold original Chinoiserie wall hangiings. The two discuss their experience at Belvoir Castle, exploring the historical significance of chinoiserie design and original wallpapers. They also delve into the Met Gala and their favorite looks of the night. On the design front, the ladies tackle some "hot takes," and questions posed by listeners, including the art of styling bookshelves with books, the balance of mixing metals in a space, the choice of timeless wood finishes, the beauty and warmth of tapestries, and the one skill they each wish they had. Takeaways Chinoiserie design and historyMet Gala fashion Bookshelf stylingMixing metalsWood finish for floors Tapestries What new skill would you love to have? Chapters 00:00 Exploring Beaver Castle and Chinoiserie Design35:15 Desired Skills and Talents

Close friend Mark D. Sikes joins Paloma and Caroline for a lighthearted game of "Serve or Swerve," where they discuss the latest in fashion trends, providing insights into their personal fashion preferences and experiences. The conversation covers a range of topics including airport fashion, the Met Gala, Coachella, and the Kardashians. It delves into the intersection of fashion, celebrity culture, and societal influence. The three also discuss Mark D. Sikes' new fabric collection and his advice for young designers on building a brand, including the importance of hard work, the pursuit of beauty, and the value of friendship. Takeaways Fashion trends are subjective and can be influenced by personal style and body type.Comfort and practicality are important factors to consider when choosing airport attire. Airport fashion is a topic of debate, with discussions on sweatsuits, Capri pants, and silk pajamas as acceptable attire.The Met Gala and Coachella are events that spark excitement and interest, with discussions on fashion, music, and celebrity appearances. Success of the Kardashian familyThe importance of hard work and perseverance Chapters 00:00 Fashion Trends: Sunglasses and Windbreakers21:04 The Met Gala and Fashion as Art34:32 The Kardashian Influence01:04:24 The Pursuit of Beauty and Friendship

Continuing their series, Inside the Photoshoot, Paloma and Caroline deconstruct the perfect photoshoot with invited guest, esteemed photographer, Isabel Parra. The conversation covers the process of preparing for and executing a photo shoot, including the investment, collaboration, and communication involved. It also delves into the role of a stylist, the importance of project suitability, and the technical aspects of photography such as aspect ratios and image composition. The three discuss a range of photography challenges, travel logistics, turnaround time for assets, photography rights, complexity of photography agreements, trends in photography, efficiency in photoshoots. Caroline and Paloma finally tease out of Isabel her latest health and food obsession. The listener question this week delves into Caroline' s dining room storage. Takeaways Collaboration and communication are essential in the process of preparing for and executing a photo shoot.Understanding the investment and costs involved in a photo shoot is crucial for designers and photographers. Adapting to weather conditions is crucial for maintaining consistency in photography.Efficient communication and collaboration are essential for successful photoshoots.Understanding photography rights and licensing is important for both clients and photographers. Chapters 00:00 Introducing Isabel Parra05:13 Styling and Publications11:04 Collaborative Approach to Projects17:26 Stylist Recommendations and Aesthetics23:46 Project Rejection and Fit31:25 Consistency in Series of Shoots37:11 Turnaround Time for Assets45:30 Trends in Photography53:02 Health and Lifestyle

Paloma and Caroline tackle the recurring listener question what to know when hiring a designer. The conversation delves into the process of hiring an interior designer, the role of the designer in various project stages, considerations for client involvement, and the importance of trust and understanding in the client-designer relationship. Key takeaways include the significance of trust in the designer's process and the importance of a positive client-designer relationship based on mutual trust and respect. The two also discuss the challenges in the design industry, the importance of artisan craft and craftsmanship, using lotion, botox frequency, and the impact of aging on personal care and cosmetic procedures. Chapters 00:00 Connecting Through Design09:02 The Value of Artisanship16:52 The Aging Process29:31 Introduction and Filler Inquiries35:04 Considerations for Entertaining Spaces and Design Decisions40:11 The Role of the Designer in Procurement and Delivery45:11 Understanding Full-Service Design and Client Involvement50:20 Experience and Expertise in Project Scope and Type57:00 Building a Successful Client-Designer Relationship

The conversation covers a range of topics including photo shoots, and the selection process for featuring projects in a magazine. The speakers also discuss the importance of standing out in submissions and the impact of social media on design trends. The conversation covers a range of topics including design trends, editorial stewardship, and the focus of the next issue of Veranda magazine. The speakers discuss the challenges of setting trends, the importance of print quality, and the engagement with designers and publicists for publication. They also highlight the upcoming issue of Veranda, which focuses on new build houses and the architectural and design considerations involved. The conversation covers topics related to architecture, design, photography, and travel. It delves into the importance of preserving architectural character, the role of transitional spaces in design, and the significance of photography in showcasing architectural work. Additionally, it explores travel hacks, reading habits, and book recommendations. Finally, Paloma and Caroline share their morning and evening skincare routines. Takeaways The selection process for featuring projects in a magazine involves looking for unique and innovative designs that stand out.The impact of social media on design trends and the importance of engaging content that surprises and delights the audience. Design trends are intentionally formulated by editors and are influenced by big themes and questions.Print quality is a fundamental aspect of editorial stewardship and is highly valued by readers, advertisers, and designers.Engagement with designers and publicists is essential for publication, and communication and collaboration are key to successful partnerships.The upcoming issue of Veranda magazine focuses on new build houses, showcasing the architectural and design considerations involved in creating enduring and timeless homes. Preserving architectural character is essential in the construction of new homes, emphasizing thoughtful design and architectural significance.Transitional spaces play a crucial role in connecting and creating cohesive architectural designs. Chapters 00:00 Photoshoot 41106:01 Selecting Projects for Feature14:25 Setting Design Trends32:45 Focus on New Build Houses38:29 The Significance of Photography in Showcasing Architectural Work47:20 Travel Hacks and Reading Habits

The conversation begins with a discussion about the highs and lows of the week. The conversation then delves into Palm Beach as a design destination and its popularity post-COVID. The conversation covers a range of topics related to Palm Beach, including accommodations, dining, and design. It also delves into the concept of consignment shops as a source for unique home decor items and discusses the use of patterned sofas in design. Additionally, the conversation explores ways to enhance the design of a spec home on a budget. Takeaways Palm Beach as a design destinationThe impact of COVID-19 on Palm Beach's popularity Consignment shops are a great source for finding unique and affordable home decor items.Palm Beach offers a diverse range of design styles, from traditional to modern and eclectic. Chapters 00:00 Palm Beach as a Design Destination27:13 Treasure Trove of Consignment Shops35:15 Favorite Eateries in Palm Beach45:29 Making a Spec Home Feel Designed

The conversation revolves around the joy of spending quality time together through podcasting and the challenges of balancing personal and professional life. The hosts discuss their experiences, insights, and advice related to these themes, providing valuable takeaways for the audience. The conversation covers Paloma Contreras' journey from teaching to marketing and design, her transition to entrepreneurship, the challenges and rewards of a design career, her core design ethos and elements, design influences and inspirations, dream projects and locations, beauty products and skincare, the best piece of advice she's received, and her excitement about the podcast. Key takeaways include the unorthodox education in design and the balance between personal and professional life. Takeaways Quality time through podcastingBalancing personal and professional life Unorthodox education in designBalancing personal and professional life Chapters 00:00 The Joy of Quality Time39:43 Unorthodox Education in Design and Marketing47:15 Design Influences and Inspirations59:21 Beauty Products and Skincare Send your questions to [email protected]. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe and follow us on Insta @theinstallpodcast. @palomacontrerasdesign, @carolinegidieredesign

The conversation covers a range of topics including family updates, highs and lows of the week, dressing and decorating aesthetics, and saving and splurging in interiors and fashion. The speakers discuss the balance of high and low in design, the importance of comfort and style in fashion, and the value of quality over quantity in design and fashion. The conversation covers a range of topics related to interior design, fashion, and personal style. Key takeaways include the importance of investing in quality upholstery and lighting, saving on trend pieces, splurging on handbags and shoes, and the significance of comfortable and timeless denim. The chapters explore various aspects of interior design, fashion, and lifestyle, providing valuable insights and recommendations for the audience. Takeaways Balance of high and low in designComfort and style in fashionQuality over quantity in design and fashion Invest in quality upholstery and lightingSave on trend pieces, splurge on handbags and shoesDenim should be comfortable and timeless Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Difficulties08:16 Family Update and Highs and Lows of the Week12:59 Travel Concerns and Client Interaction24:58 Saving and Splurging in Interiors and Fashion34:09 Lighting and Upholstery40:11 Occasional Tables and Furniture Budgeting45:52 Denim: Saving vs. Splurging53:33 On-Trend Fashion Pieces and Personal Style