Ep. 370: Design Retreat with Jillian O’Neill

How to Decorate

This week, we welcome seasoned interior designer Jillian O'Neill. She talks about her innovative Design Retreat, an interior design weekend that empowers homeowners to tackle their home projects with confidence and to connect with industry professionals.

Jillian discusses the importance of assembling the right design team, maintaining open communication, and embracing flexibility in home renovation projects. Jillian also gives a sneak peek at the upcoming San Antonio event and what attendees can expect!

What You’ll Hear On This Episode

• The Design Retreat’s purpose is to bridge the gap between homeowners working on a project and professionals.
• How the Design Retreat can help homeowners gain confidence in their home design projects and empower them to actively participate in the process.
• A mix of attendees at the retreat, including those building homes, real estate agents, and design enthusiasts.
• The importance of assembling the right design team and having good communication.
• Transparency in the design process, including budgets and expectations.
• What should homeowners know about budgets and allowances in their projects?
• Thoughtful questions that people can ask their builder, designer, and architect.
• How homeowners and professionals can be excited and confident about projects from beginning to end.
• What should attendees of the Designer Retreat bring to the table?

Also Mentioned:

• Ballard Designs
• Design Retreat
• Design Retreat IG

Decorating Dilemma:

Follow along with images of this week's decorating dilemma here.

Hello Mary! First, you did a great job and everything is so pretty and inviting! We understand what you mean about needing a lighting revamp, and we have a few suggestions. Consider adding two new lamps on either side of your loveseat with lighter shades to allow more light. Move your grandmother's lamp to the console with the plant for a nice accent. In the dining room, try an unexpected chandelier that contrasts with the heavier furniture style. For the sunroom, add a task lamp near one of the chairs for better lighting when you're working. Finally, consider a larger sofa to better fit the scale of the room, and maybe add a rug in the dining area to soften the space and differentiate it from the wood floor and table.