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This week, we are joined by award-winning Atlanta based designer, Robert Brown. Known for his tailored and highly edited spaces, Robert shares some great tips for blending vintage pieces with a modern aesthetic, finding the right balance of traditional and contemporary, and using antiques in a way that feels fresh and exciting. \nWe also chat with Robert about the similarities between the fashion industry and interior design, tips for navigating the antique market like a pro and how the storytelling aspect of antiquing is just as important as the design.\xa0\n\nWhat You\u2019ll Hear On This Episode:\n\nTips for reimagining antiques to bring character to your space.\xa0\n\nHow can you tell when something doesn\u2019t work?\xa0\n\nRobert talks about a historic house in Atlanta and how it exemplifies starting with the architectural envelope.\xa0\n\nSome insider hints for navigating online auctions, and the importance of always doing your research.\xa0\n\nHow to overcome insecurity about asking questions regarding antiques and making sure you stay informed.\xa0\n\nSourcing antiques based on client design needs.\xa0\n\nWhy you shouldn't be afraid to mix periods.\xa0\n\nMore about Robert\u2019s career journey from fashion to interior design and how the two industries are related.\xa0\n\nRobert\u2019s recommendations for the right pieces, materials and furniture to invest in for beauty, functionality and comfort.\xa0\n\n\nDecorating Dilemma:\xa0\nFollow along with pictures of this week's decorating dilemma here. \nHi Nancy and thank you for your question! \nSo, Robert wants to do the opposite of what you were thinking and to replace the two smaller rugs with one large area rug that spans from the baseboards to under the furniture. This will help unify the space visually. Have the rug custom cut from wall-to-wall carpeting for the best fit. Consider rearranging the furniture to open up the room even more. For example, you could swap the sofa and chairs by the fireplace to draw the eye in that direction. Add side panel curtains in a complementary color to the walls. Mount them outside the window frame and let them graze the floor for a polished look. This will enhance the acoustics and add visual interest without blocking the views. And lastly, choose a durable, low-maintenance performance rug that's suitable for high-traffic areas with pets and kids. Look for tone-on-tone patterns that disguise dirt. \nThanks for writing in!\xa0\n\nAlso Mentioned:\n\nBallard Designs\n\n\nRobert Brown Interior Design | IG\xa0\n\n\n\nPlease\xa0send us your Decorating Dilemmas and questions to podcast@ballarddesigns.net. We love hearing from our listeners!