What Does Your Entryway Say About You? Barrett Oswald On Personalization And Impact In Design

Mar 24

Barrett Oswald on the Slow Style Home podcast

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I sit down with designer Barrett Oswald to examine the thought process behind her stunning, layered interiors. We explore the power of color, the role of texture, and how composition can transform a space—whether it’s a grand entryway or a cozy nook. Barrett shares insights from her work on both historic and modern homes, explaining how she uses color drenching to create immersive atmospheres, entryways to set the tone, and a mix of materials to bring warmth and depth to a room.

We also discuss the importance of designing with intention, making bold yet thoughtful choices, and mastering the mix of old and new to create a home that truly reflects your personality. Plus, Barrett gives us a peek into her own home and the personal design choices she’s made. She also shares photos of her work taken by the talented Tim Lenz. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance beauty and function or how to make your space feel both sophisticated and inviting, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

Watch this entire episode on YouTube HERE

KEY TAKEAWAYS

I had the pleasure of sitting down with the talented interior designer, Barrett Oswald. Her thoughtful approach to design perfectly encapsulates what slow style is all about—creating personalized spaces with intention, meaning, and a deep commitment to the aesthetics of one’s personal lifestyle.

The Journey into Design

Barrett’s journey into the world of design is an inspiring blend of creativity and meaningful human connection. She shared how design allows her to work closely with individuals, helping them realize their visions for their homes. Being invited into someone’s personal space is intimate and personal, and Barrett beautifully described how she sees her role as a facilitator in bringing her client's visions to life, marrying their personal values and passions with smart design decisions.

The Significance of Entryways

One of the key concepts we explored was the role of entryways in a home. Barrett emphasized the importance of these often-overlooked spaces. Entryways set the tone for the entire home, providing a captivating first impression. Barrett shared examples from her projects, such as a historical home in North Salem, New York, where she infused modern elements with heritage features. The entry's theme echoed the natural surroundings, with a blue palette that mimicked the outdoors, creating a welcome-home moment—a seamless transition from outside to in.

Mastering the Mix

A central theme of our discussion was the concept of mastering the mix—how to harmoniously blend different elements in a home to reflect the inhabitant’s personality. Barrett recounted stories of giving new life to family heirlooms and pieces that were once forgotten. In one project, an attic-stored family painting became a centerpiece that grounded the room, showcasing how old and new elements, when thoughtfully integrated, tell a story of the homeowners’ lives and tastes. This practice of meaningful curation speaks directly to the essence of slow style, fostering continuity between past and present.

Color and Personal Expression

Barrett's work is distinct in its use of color and texture, particularly in public versus private spaces. She pointed out her natural inclination to keep public areas neutral while saturating private rooms with vibrant hues. We discussed her process of infusing rich colors like deep greens into intimate spaces, which creates an enveloping, cozy atmosphere. She shared a distinctly colored, yet tranquil guest room in her own home as an example, where layered textures and bold hues come together seamlessly. This approach not only defines each space but also provides a personal touch, facilitating individual expression within the home's intimate corners.

Embracing Color Drenching

The conversation rounded out with a discussion on current design trends that excite Barrett—one of which is color drenching. This involves committing to one color and extending it across walls, moldings, and sometimes furniture, creating a cohesive look that feels intentional and tailored. Barrett appreciates this method for its boldness, encouraging clients to dive deep into their personal preferences, and creating spaces that resonate with their aesthetic values on a profound level. She believes in making each room its own narrative, crafting an authentic reflection of the inhabitants.

In our talk, Barrett underscored a crucial aspect of slow style—it's about deliberate personalization, ensuring that every decision, from materials to colors, mirrors a part of the occupant’s identity. For instance, her use of handmade Zellige tiles on an entire wall in a Martha's Vineyard home reflects a dedication to materials that echo the home's ocean views, bringing a tactile depth to the space.

I hope you find our chat as enlightening as I did. Slow style is about embracing what feels right, what tells your story, and what anchors you to your space. I’m grateful to Barrett for sharing such a vibrant glimpse into her design philosophy and for offering insights that inspire us all to live more intentionally in our homes.

Until Next Time!

-Zandra