In our latest podcast, our reference article offers seven tips from three interior design experts on improving a home's lighting. Layering light sources beyond a single overhead fixture, installing dimmers on hardwired lights, and avoiding excessive lightare recommended to control mood and prevent discomfort. The designers also emphasize selecting bulbs with the correct color temperature and a high Color Rendering Index (CRI) to ensure accurate color representation. Additionally, they suggest maximizing natural light from windows and caution against relying too heavily on recessed ceiling lights.Citation: 7 Things Designers Always Do to Improve the Lighting in a Home (and You Should Too)This latest episode is brought to you by Ryan Shapiro Photography

Explore strategies for navigating potential price increases and material delays in home renovations, particularly in the context of fluctuating economic conditions like tariffs. It suggests that hoarding materials might seem appealing but isn't the only solution. Instead, this episode highlights the importance of well-structured contracts, such as "price locks" and "cost-plus" agreements, to secure material costs and provide financial certainty for homeowners. The discussion also emphasizes the value of working with transparent and experienced contractors who can offer insights into cost breakdowns and potentially leverage supplier relationships for better pricing, ultimately protecting homeowners from unexpected expenses and ensuring a smoother project.Dwell article by Anjulie Rao: How to Navigate Renovation Costs in the Age of TariffsPodcast brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

A 2025 report from XBD Collective outlines the top ten trends shaping commercial architecture and interior design.These trends emphasize purpose-driven design focused on employee experience, environmental responsibility, and digital integration. Key themes include adaptive workspaces, emotionally intelligent design, nature-infused elements, and smart building technologies. The report also highlights the growing importance of circular design, wellness considerations, cultural identity, acoustic solutions, hospitality-inspired environments, and fluid retail experiences. Ultimately, the success of these projects in 2025 relies heavily on strong client-contractor collaboration. Citation: Top 10 Commercial Architecture and Interior Design Trends 2025 Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

In this episode of the Art & Business of Interior Design, our hosts discuss the article titled "Trump-Era Global Home Decor: Five Defining Shifts," analyzes the significant changes impacting the international home decor industry following the trade policies enacted during Donald Trump's presidency. The piece outlines five key shifts, including the effects of tariffs on Chinese goods, the increasing prominence of India and Brazil as alternative manufacturing hubs, currency devaluations among BRICS nations, and the reshaping of trade routes and regulations. Ultimately, the article serves to inform businesses and consumers about the new landscape of global home decor, emphasizing the need to adapt to these dynamic economic and political forces from 2024 leading into 2025.Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro PhotographyArticle: Trump-Era Global Home Decor: Five Defining Shifts

The Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) recent federal layoffs are impacting various sectors in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region, including the interior design industry. The DMV area, home to approximately 20% of the 2.4 million civilian federal workforce, is experiencing significant changes due to these reductions.Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

In this episode of the Art & Business of Interior Design, learn to navigate an often difficult conversation , the art of negotiating higher design fees.  Our hosts discuss the article, Negotiating Higher Interior Design Fees with Confidence, by author Laurie Laizure. Ryan ShapiroInteriors PhotographerRyan Shapiro Photographyhttps://www.ryanshapirophotography.com

In this episode of the Art & Business of Interior Design, hosts Ryan and Shoshanna Shapiro dive into the transformative power of interior styling for photography. Whether you’re an interior designer prepping for a portfolio shoot, a photographer capturing a client’s vision, or a homeowner showcasing your space, this episode is packed with expert tips and actionable advice to elevate your results. Ryan shares insights from behind the lens, while Shoshanna offers a designer’s perspective on crafting impeccable details that tell a story. This episode will empower you to create stunning imagery that captures the essence of any interior.Ryan ShapiroInteriors PhotographerRyan Shapiro Photographyhttps://www.ryanshapirophotography.comShoshanna ShapiroPrincipal and Award-winning Interior DesignerSho and Co https://www.shoshannaco.com 

In this episode of The Art & Business of Interior Design we provide a short recap of lessons learned in 2024 before we go silent for the holidays. As we usher in 2025, we have plans to bring you video of our podcast from our YouTube Channel.   Subscribe now and click on the alert 🔔 bell on our YouTube Channel to start receiving podcast video alerts beginning in 2025. YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RyanShapiroPhotography   Brought to you by Ryan Shapiro, Interior Photographer: Ryan Shapiro Photography Co-host: Shoshanna Shapiro, Principal Designer, Sho and Co

In this episode of the Art and Business of Interior Design, Southern Living Magazine published an article featuring interviews with several interior designers. The article focuses on nine home décor trends they predict will decline in popularity in 2025. These trends include quick fixes, impersonal spaces, ubiquitous accessories, all-neutral palettes, fast furniture, excessive technology, trendy tile, overused textiles, and fleeting design choices. The designers express a desire for more personalized, sustainable, and timeless design, emphasizing quality over quantity and enduring style over fleeting trends. The article ultimately advocates for individual expression and lasting design aesthetics. #deepdive #interiordesigners #homedecortrends Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography This episode's sponsor is: Sho and Co Southern Living Magazine Article: 9 Home Trends Designers Can't Wait to Say Goodbye to in 2025

In this episode of the Art and Business of Interior Design, join hosts Ryan and Shoshanna Shapiro as they dive into the world of interior design, exploring the unexpected impact of tariffs on this creative industry.Shoshanna Shapiro, Principal Designer, Sho and Co Interior Design Studio Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

In this episode of The Art & Business of Interior Design, listen as we take a deep-dive into the Guide to PR for Interior Designers that covers the importance of publicity, how it compares to other business growth strategies, and includes examples of successful PR campaigns by other interior designers. It then outlines a step-by-step process for creating a PR strategy, including finding relevant publications, crafting effective pitches, and leveraging free publicity opportunities. Finally, the guide provides templates for media bios and various types of pitches for different outlets, such as magazines, podcasts, and smaller websites. Source: Guide to PR for Interior Designers by Dayana Mayfield Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

In this episode of The Art & Business of Interior Design, the podcast offers advice on how to navigate difficult clients. One source, an article from Ad Middle East, presents practical strategies for diffusing tension and fostering positive relationships with challenging clients. The other source, a YouTube video, likely delves into the topic through a more visual and interactive medium, perhaps offering specific examples or case studies to illustrate effective communication and conflict resolution techniques. Citation: Architectural Digest Middle East - How Do You Handle a Difficult Client? “Fire Them!” And 11 More Strategies To Diffuse Tension Efficiently and Calmly Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

In this episode of The Art & Business of Interior Design, listen to practical advice on scaling an interior design business. They explore strategies such as expanding service offerings, streamlining operations, and leveraging technology to increase efficiency. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of team building, knowledge sharing, and developing a distinctive brand identity to attract and retain clients. Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

In this episode of The Art & Business of Interior Design, we dive into the secrets of getting your work featured in top design publications and high-traffic websites. From crafting a compelling narrative about your project to perfecting the photography and creating relationships with editors, we cover what it takes to make your work stand out. Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

In this episode of The Art & Business of Interior Design, we demystify SEO specifically for interior designers looking to expand their online presence. This episode breaks down the essentials of search engine optimization—from choosing the right keywords to optimizing your website for better visibility in local searches.    Brought to you by Ryan Shapiro Photography

In this special Veterans Day episode of The Art & Business of Interior Design, a recent study conducted by researchers at Texas A&M University has examined how architectural design can improve the lives of veterans living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The study interviewed veterans with PTSD to understand how design elements like windows, entrances, hallways, open floor plans, green spaces, and interior design choices affect their well-being. These findings are crucial for designing buildings that are better suited to veterans' needs, helping to create environments that minimize stress and promote a sense of comfort. Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

Research: Texas A&M, Designing for calm: How building features impact veterans with PTSD .

In this episode of The Art & Business of Interior Design we take a deep-dive into sophistication and wellness in luxury living. We explore the art of creating elevated, well-balanced spaces that blend luxury with holistic wellness. Join us as we dive into timeless design principles that bring beauty, tranquility, and functionality to luxury interiors. Perfect for those passionate about refined living, where sophistication meets well-being.   Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

In this episode, let's take a deep-dive into using a professional photographer for interior design and how it offers significant benefits, elevating the presentation and appeal of each space. With an expert eye for composition, lighting, and detail, a professional photographer captures the true essence and quality of the design, highlighting its unique features and textures. These high-quality images not only enhance marketing materials but also convey a polished and sophisticated brand image. Professional photography helps attract clients, increase engagement, and ultimately drives more inquiries, providing interior designers with a powerful tool to showcase their work effectively in an increasingly visual market.Brought to you by: Ryan Shapiro Photography

Welcome to our inaugural episode of The Art and Business of Interior Design where art meets business in the world of luxury design. Subscribe for weekly updates