Business of Home Podcast

Thomas Pheasant has built his career in Washington D.C., and though projects now take him all over the world, his work still reflects the serene, classical style of the nation’s capital. Along the way, Pheasant has won several awards for his work, spent over a decade on the AD100, and designed blockbuster collections for Baker and McGuireOn this episode of the podcast he speaks with host Dennis Scully about the new licensed line he’s working on, why young designers shouldn’t rush to publish their work, and why it’s so important to take time away from the daily grind of running a firm to stay creatively refreshed and inspired. This episode is sponsored by Loloi and John Rosselli & AssociatesLINKSThomas PheasantDennis ScullyBusiness of Home 

Host Dennis Scully and BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus discuss the biggest news in the design world, including Stark’s latest acquisition, why Williams-Sonoma is suing Quince, and whether tariffs will have an impact on style.This episode is sponsored by Renewal by Andersen and Eichholtz. LINKSBusiness of Home

Founded in Atlanta in the 1970s, Jerry Pair evolved alongside the design industry itself, starting as a small road rep operation and growing into a Southern institution. Current owner Dan Cahoon joined in the 1990s, helping to expand the business and bring it into the 21st century—navigating technological change, a recession, and a pandemic.On this episode of the podcast he speaks with host Dennis Scully about how pricing has changed over the years, why he launched both a leather business and a software company, and why, no matter what changes in the industry, showrooms will always have a role to play. This episode is sponsored by LoloiLINKSJerry PairDennis ScullyBusiness of Home 

Host Dennis Scully and BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus discuss the biggest news in the design world, including an update on Dupe.com, Williams-Sonoma earnings, and a new platform for AI-generated home goods. Later, editor Steele Marcoux and brand consultant Sean Yashar join the show to talk about the disappearance of nighttime design photography—and why Veranda is bringing it back.  This episode is sponsored by Renewal by Andersen and Eichholtz. LINKSThe Culture Creative PapersBusiness of Home

Emily Arthur and Sharon Dranko became friends while working at West Elm—the two became business partners when they realized there was a hole in the market for a product-focused, design-forward approach to kitchen cabinetry. They launched Isla Porter only last year, but have already made a splash in the industry, collaborating with designers like Monica Stewart of the Misfit House, Anne McDonald, and Jenna Chused.On this episode of the podcast, Arthur and Dranko discuss about why they launched with an AI message but have since dialed it back, the unique story behind the name Isla Porter, and how working together as friends has helped them through the ups and downs of starting a company.This episode is sponsored by LoloiLINKSIsla PorterDennis ScullyBusiness of Home 

Nidhi Kapur, the founder of Maiden Home, shares her journey in crafting a unique space in the design world with handcrafted furniture. She delves into how disciplined design and strong trade relationships fueled her brand's growth. Nidhi emphasizes the importance of quality over mass production and discusses the challenges of sourcing materials while maintaining craftsmanship. With new flagship stores in New York and Miami, she reflects on her innovative marketing strategies and offers valuable advice for budding entrepreneurs.

In this engaging conversation, Martin Ephson, a serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Farrow & Ball and Fermoie, shares insights from his remarkable journey in the design sector. He discusses the transformation of Farrow & Ball into a global brand and the opportunity he saw in textile manufacturing after a decline in mills. Ephson emphasizes the importance of looking after people in leadership and details the strategic pivots that led to Fermoie's growth. He also highlights the significance of storytelling in color names and the evolving trends in wallpaper.

Billy Cotton, an acclaimed interior designer and product collaborator, shares insights into his latest projects and multi-category collection. He reflects on the impact of his viral Architectural Digest house tour with Lily Allen and David Harbour. Cotton discusses the rise of the Togo sofa during the pandemic, emphasizing its comfort and unique appeal. He also explains his dual approach to design and architecture through his firm, CTK, and the freedom found in high-craft product design. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on the evolving role of AI in the industry.

Mark Feng, Chairman and CEO of Markor, shares insights from his dynamic journey in the design and furniture industry, tracing his family's artistic roots. He discusses the promising role of AI in revolutionizing design workflows, predicting it could eliminate 80% of tedious tasks and uplift average designers. Mark emphasizes the importance of balancing high design with commercial appeal and warns against AI hype, advocating for practical, problem-solving applications. The conversation highlights how embracing AI may define future industry leaders.

Kaitlin Petersen, editor in chief of Business of Home, joins the discussion with firsthand insights from High Point Market. She highlights an unexpectedly optimistic atmosphere and trends in market attendance. They delve into the growing role of AI-generated video for designers, examining practical applications and new tools. The chat also explores celebrity home culture through Lily Allen's viral home tour, as well as notable product launches and partnerships that are shaping the design landscape.