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b'Design blogger Kevin O\\u2019Gara joins the show this week to discuss the inspiration and background behind his traditional yet youthful style. Kevin is a rising superstar in the world of design, and talks about his blog Thou Swell, the inspiration behind his new maze inspired rug collection, and what trends he is most excited. Kevin also talks with us about using contrast and color in both traditional and modern, how he took his design skill to his very own dorm room, and what it was like working with Suzanne Kasler.\\nWhat You\\u2019ll Hear on This Episode:\\n\\nTrials and triumphs including water leaks (yes, a new one!), garbage disposals, and why you should leave it to the professionals to do the fixing. Also, a search for the perfect lamp, the Margot Slubby Velvet Quilt, and finding the right box that is both beautiful and functional.\\n\\nKevin has always found ways to turn things he is interested in into a business or entrepreneurial venture. He started his blog, Thou Swell, in high school, and mixed his interest in design, photography, and graphics.\\n\\nKevin\\u2019s design style is rooted in classics with a playful twist. He grew up with traditional design, but found balance between that and modern while spending time on Pinterest and blogs,\\n\\nWhat it was like for Kevin to work in Suzanne Kasler\\u2019s office, and the biggest things he learned throughout his experience.\\n\\nSome do\\u2019s and don\\u2019t of wallpaper that Kevin has learned, including accent walls and how to get over the feeling of intimidation when starting with a blank slate.\\n\\nKevin\\u2019s rug collection, and how the color choice was inspired by nature.\\n\\nThe Invitation Homes show house that has been one of Kevin\\u2019s favorite projects, where he got to be playful and step out of his comfort zone.\\n\\nWhy working on tiny spaces such as a dorm room has been one of Kevin\\u2019s most fun challenges and how they are a great creative experience.\\n\\nKevin\\u2019s biggest tip: focus on textiles and invest in comfortable bed linens and lots of throw pillows and blankets.\\n\\nHow Kevin\\u2019s blog name \\u201cThou Swell\\u201d mirrors the traditional and modern aspects of his design.\\n\\n\\nMentioned In This Episode:\\nKevin O\\u2019Gara | @kevinfrancisdesign\\nKevin Francis Design \\nThou Swell \\nDouble Gourd Lamp \\nMargot Slubby Quilt \\nSuzanne Kasler \\nEp #115 with Tammy Connor'