House of Lou

In this episode of House of Lou, host Veronica Theodoro chats with Laura Dooley, owner of LoKey Designs, and Nicole Walter, greenhouse buyer for Garden Heights Nursery. The topic of their conversation is decorating the home with plants and it all kicks-off with each woman sharing the story behind their current favorite houseplant and planter. Like all design elements, plants have the power to infuse a space with beauty, life, and wellness—and Veronica’s guests share their tips for achieving the best looks. From styling a room with a statement tree to choosing the right containers, Laura and Nicole reveal their go-to pro moves for incorporating texture, color, shape, and scale through plants. Whether you live surrounded by greenery or have just recently started to think of plants as complementary to other decor practices, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Watch the episode on YouTube and listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.   See related stories and resources from this episode: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/house-of-lou/episode-32 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGkbLFLTZPyJz12erwKdMl6d Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ovIC1dt19FiByFhMjlgIc?si=be8613d8b3e849c4&nd=1&dlsi=4b587e7b470048ee Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/house-of-lou/id1715504359 This episode is sponsored by Saint Louis Science Center. There’s a lot of wonder in the little word: why. It’s how we uncover how things work and what things are. Why is endless. Why is ageless. And it’s for everyone to explore. At the Saint Louis Science Center, the wonder of why is the reason they exist. They bring it to life inside their building and throughout their community. Because why is where wonder begins and the Saint Louis Science Center brings it to life. Plan your visit. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertising@stlmag.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of House of Lou, take a walk outside with garden expert Derek McKay—manager of Frisella Nursery and host of the gardening blog Derek Dino Garden Guy. Veronica and Derek delve into the world of fragrance in the garden, an aspect of garden design that is often, surprisingly, overlooked. Learn how and when to use fragrant flowers, plants, and trees to deploy maximum pleasure for the senses. Watch the episode on YouTube and listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.  See related stories and resources from this episode at https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/house-of-lou/episode-30/ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGkbLFLTZPyJz12erwKdMl6d Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ovIC1dt19FiByFhMjlgIc?si=be8613d8b3e849c4&nd=1&dlsi=4b587e7b470048ee Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/house-of-lou/id1715504359 This episode is sponsored by Pulitzer Arts Foundation (https://pulitzerarts.org/) and supported by the Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park (https://ebsworthpark.org/). This year, the Pulitzer celebrates its 25th anniversary with a special exhibition organized by its Founder and Board Chair, Emily Rauh Pulitzer. Dialogues & Conversations features work by more than 35 artists, with 85 sculptures, drawings, paintings, prints, and photographs spanning the late 19th century to today. The exhibition is open through August 9. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing: https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/ Have an idea for a future episode? Email podcasts@stlmag.com.  Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Email advertising@stlmag.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the podcast, Meghan Heeter discusses her transition from full-time interior designer to design principal at Ättlingar, the company she founded with former client Siri Eklund. Dedicated to designing and crafting historically inspired medicine cabinets, mirrors, and other accessories for the bathroom, each piece is handmade in the USA using traditional Swedish woodworking techniques. But, as we discover during Veronica’s interview with Meghan, she and Siri, and the rest of the Attlingar team, are nearing the launch of a new collection of mohair fabrics and historically inspired wallpapers. There’s never a dull moment in this business! Tune in to hear more. Listen and follow House of Lou on YouTube, Spotify,  Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode is sponsored by STAGES St. Louis. This year, STAGES St. Louis proudly celebrates 40 years of producing Broadway-quality theater. Join them for a summer full of laughs, musical memories, and heart as they present The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Guys and Dolls, and Come From Away. Learn more. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Want more? Check out all of St. Louis Magazine’s podcasts. Love House of Lou? Be sure to follow or subscribe on your favorite platform. And show your love with House of Lou merch. Mentioned in this episode: Attlingar Best Dressed List, Meghan Heeter The Frank Lloyd Wright House in Ebsworth Park  Rock Hill Woodworking Co. St. Louis Mercantile Library  Casting a Long Shadow: Frederick Oakes Sylvester & His Circle Jewel Box St. Louis Birthday Bash Givenchy’s Rehabilitation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Anderton Court Shops Architect & Designer Awards You may also enjoy: Ättlingar elevates the bathroom with bespoke medicine cabinets and mirrors More episodes of House of Lou Shop House of Lou merch See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s time to decorate the Christmas tree! This month, Veronica welcomes Rae Sutton of Three French Hens and Suzanne Miller of Papier Lys to the pod. Together, the group gets into the weeds about the joys—and challenges—of creating a beautiful and memorable tree in time for the holidays. Who is camp faux? And who still decorates a real tree? What are the upsides and downsides of each? From tree toppers to tree skirts, Veronica and her guests discuss it all, providing creative and practical tips and solutions that you can use today! If you’re looking to up your Christmas tree decorating game this year, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Listen and follow House of Lou on YouTube, Spotify,  Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Want more? Check out all of St. Louis Magazine’s podcasts. Mentioned in this episode: Three French Hens  Papier Lys Suzanne Miller’s House Shop the Stables  MKS Designs Sugarcoat Home  Wonderwhim Co. Veronica’s dining room table  Veronica’s local gift guide Alliance Francaise Baisch & Skinner Saint Louis Art Museum events Kitchen Conservatory Belleville’s Candlelight House Tour You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: More episodes of House of Lou Veronica’s local gift guide Homes for the holidays at some of St. Louis’ historic homes See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of House of Lou, Veronica welcomes Kate Pollmann and Jessica Conway, owners of Sugarcoat Home, to talk about shopping estates sales, finding treasures where (and when!) you least expect them, and how we can all create beautiful, unique spaces when we follow our heart’s desire. Kate and Jessica also share Sugarcoat’s origin story, insights about working together, and their hopes and dreams for the future of their business. Hint: There’s more travel ahead for them—and, possibly, the chance for us to join them on one of their adventures! These women are passionate about the home, antiques, and living life to the fullest. So, get ready for a lively conversation with two of St. Louis’ most exciting retail owners. This episode is sponsored by NCJWSTL The Resale Shop and supported by St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Don’t miss Couturier, October 22–25 at The Resale Shop. For over 60 years, this premier resale event has featured high-quality designer clothing and accessories for women, men, and children, plus unique home décor—all at a fraction of the cost. Proceeds support programs that improve the lives of women, children, and families. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Mentioned in this episode: Sugarcoat Home  Ambacht Marci Marsh  Abode by Parklyn Interiors  Candice Wideman  Miriam Switching Post  St. Louis Magazine‘s Dream Kitchens Architect & Designer Awards ModernSTL: Ridgewood Home Tour Landmarks Association: Cathedral Basilica: An Illustrated Timeline Persimmon Festival & Tree Giveaway You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: The inventory at Sugarcoat Home in St. Louis is curated by two friends Where to shop for vintage, resale, and consignment fashion in St. Louis A guide to vintage shopping in St. Louis More episodes of House of Lou See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before the tornado on May 16, 2025, Ali Rand was a self-described wife and stay-at-home mom of 5, living in the Central West End. Today, she’s the guiding force behind a grassroots volunteer movement born of devastation but motivated by a love for her adopted hometown of St. Louis, Missouri. Mere days after the storm, Ali sprung into action, inspiring volunteers from across St. Louis to join her in helping the victims of an F3-category storm. The “Street Angels,” as Ali and her crew are known, have done all sorts of work, including sorting and stacking brick, boarding-up windows, tarping roofs, and fundraising—all the while sharing their experiences on social media. Almost 3 months after the tornado, the work continues. In this episode of House of Lou, host Veronica Theodoro interviews Ali to learn more about her important work and the woman behind the powerful social media messages. Check Ali’s Instagram to follow along with all the work being done and how you can help. This episode is sponsored by Kranzberg Art Foundation’s MATI. MATI returns September 12–14. Enjoy live music, art exhibits, food trucks, vendors, and good vibes, all in the streets of the Grand Center Arts District. Grab your passes. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Mentioned in this episode: Ali Rand (@alirand) Forsyth School  Villa Dushesne  JCR Design Group  Alex Thornhill  Chase Park Plaza Cinema Britt Design  World Chess Hall of Fame & Galleries  Forest Park  Half & Half COCA Modern Masonry and Restoration (Wes Klaus)  PLNK Fitness  Washington University Occupational Therapy You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: More episodes of House of Lou Tornado updates and resources See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of House of Lou, Veronica explores the topic of home renovations, a subject that has become even more relevant as St. Louisans grapple with repairs to their homes in the aftermath of the tornado on May 16. Guests Kristin Moomey, an architect with HKW Architects, and Maria Hogrefe, principal and co-founder of C&M Interiors, take us inside their personal renovation stories, offering their experiences as guidance on how to start a project, plan a budget, and manage the stress and overwhelm inherent to all renovations. Their stories, in tandem with their professional expertise, give listeners the confidence they need to tackle repairs, both big and small. What important lessons can we learn from them? In hindsight, what might Moomey and Hogrefe have done differently, and how can we all benefit from the vision behind a historic house restoration in Benton Park (Moomey) and a fixer-upper family home project in South County (Hogrefe). Tune in to hear their inspiring stories. Listen and follow House of Lou on YouTube, Spotify,  Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode is sponsored by Opera Theatre of St. Louis and supported by The Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis. Opera Theatre of Saint Louis’ annual festival season is back, with four new productions and hundreds of artists hand-picked from all over the country. Get tickets today. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Got an idea for a future House of Lou episode? We love hearing from our audience. Send your thoughts or feedback to Veronica at vtheodoro@stlmag.com or to podcasts@stlmag.com. We can’t wait to hear from you! Looking for more inspiration? Subscribe to our Design+Home newsletter to receive our latest home, design, and style content in your inbox every Wednesday. And follow Veronica (@vtlookbook) and St. Louis Magazine on Instagram (@stlouismag). Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com. Mentioned in this episode: Forsyth  Field House Museum  Patterns of Luxury: Islamic Textiles 11th – 17th Centuries  Smelling the Bouquet: Plants & Scents in the Garden Pickled Pink Pickleball Tournament  Thirdstoryies.com / Instagram: @thirdstoryies Pebble Garden  HKW Architects C&M Interiors / Instagram: @candminteriors You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: Tornado 2025 Home Resources Guide: Where to get things fixed More episodes of House of Lou See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this second episode of a two-part series (Part 1: How to Work with an Interior Designer), Veronica goes deep with interior designers Karen Korn and April Jensen about their careers, working with clients, and designing rooms from start to finish. Get the inside story from the point of view of the pros, as Karen and April pull back the curtain on the client-designer relationship. This is an open, fun conversation with two of St. Louis’ most exciting designers working today. “I promise you won’t want to miss it,” exclaims Veronica. Listen and follow House of Lou on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode is sponsored by Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum. Seeds: Containers of a World to Come, on display February 21–July 28, brings together work by ten contemporary artists who explore issues of fragility, preservation, and possibility through the lens of the seed. From sculpture and film, to installation and painting, the exhibition reflects on our current environmental challenges and our connection to the natural world. Visit kemperartmuseum.wustl.edu for more information. New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing! Got an idea for a future House of Lou episode? We love hearing from our audience. Send your thoughts or feedback to Veronica at vtheodoro@stlmag.com or to podcasts@stlmag.com. We can’t wait to hear from you! Looking for more inspiration? Subscribe to our Design+Home newsletter to receive our latest home, design, and style content in your inbox every Wednesday. And follow Veronica (@vtlookbook) and St. Louis Magazine on Instagram (@stlouismag). Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com. Mentioned in this episode: Karen Korn Interiors ADJ Interiors St. Louis Community College, Meramec Tidyology STL Peace of Mind Organizing  KDR Designer Showrooms Crescent Plumbing Supply  Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House 100 Years of Art Decor: Deco Fortress Open House  Member Speaker Series, Shaw Nature Reserve: Wildlife in Focus You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: House of Lou: How to Work with a STL Designer Interior designer April Jensen’s Glendale farmhouse melds everything she loves A new studio space offers a local designer more room to grow her business A remodel by Karen Dubinsky Korn interprets midcentury modern design in a kitchen for today’s homeowner More episodes of House of Lou Ask Veronica: How to work with an interior designer See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Interior designer Brett Clark of Design Collective STL and his client, Jennifer Duncan, share the details of a recent kitchen remodel set in a historic house designed by Gale Henderson. Through their shared experience, we get an inside look at what it's like to transform an outdated 90s-era kitchen into a functional, elegant space for both cooking and gathering. Why is knowing the client so important to design success? How can we all manage unexpected renovation surprises?  And what's a clever workaround for a "Mom Command Center?" Our guests answer these questions and more, so if you love historic homes—or a kitchen remodel is in your future—this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen and follow House of Lou on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode is sponsored by Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum. Seeds: Containers of a World to Come, on display February 21–July 28, brings together work by ten contemporary artists who explore issues of fragility, preservation, and possibility through the lens of the seed. From sculpture and film, to installation and painting, the exhibition reflects on our current environmental challenges and our connection to the natural world. Visit kemperartmuseum.wustl.edu for more information. Got an idea for a future House of Lou episode?  We love hearing from our audience. Send your thoughts or feedback to Veronica at vtheodoro@stlmag.com or to podcasts@stlmag.com. We can't wait to hear from you! Looking for more inspiration? Subscribe to our Design+Home newsletter to receive our latest home, design, and style content in your inbox every Wednesday. And follow Veronica (@vtlookbook) and St. Louis Magazine on Instagram (@stlouismag). Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com. Mentioned in this episode: Design Collective STL Gale Henderson  Art in Bloom  Missouri Historical Society, Saturday Speakers Series Living in Ste. Genevieve House Tour  Veronica's Kitchen, view 1 Veronica's Kitchen, view 2 You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: More episodes of House of Lou St. Louis experts share tips on kitchen design and renovation This brand-new bath in a century-old house called for style and practicality 2025 Architect & Designer Awards finalists See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's the most wonderful—and party-packed—time of the year. In the spirit of holiday hosting season, Veronica Theodoro dives into house party etiquette with two local experts who know how to make gatherings unforgettable. Susie Busch–Transou of Hearth & Soul shares tips from her beautifully curated retail spaces. Courtney Winet, the creative force behind stunning custom invitations, reveals how details set the tone for any event. Hear their answers to these commonly asked questions: When should you bring a gift to the host?  Do you always have to say goodbye to the host? How do I plan a seating arrangement?  How do I plan a menu for dietary restrictions? Is it okay to clean up your kitchen when guests still are at your home? How do I tell guests to leave? ... and more! Tune in to hear how to navigate the joys and challenges of home parties, and learn how you can be a gracious host and a thoughtful guest. Listen and follow House of Lou on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode is sponsored by Habitat for Humanity St. Louis ReStores.  Shop and donate new and used building materials, furniture, and home improvement supplies at Habitat for Humanity ReStores while also supporting affordable housing in St. Louis. To learn about store locations and hours of operation, visit habitatstl.org. Got an idea for a future House of Lou episode?  We love hearing from our audience. Send your thoughts or feedback to Veronica at vtheodoro@stlmag.com or to podcasts@stlmag.com. We can't wait to hear from you! Looking for more inspiration? Subscribe to our Design+Home newsletter to receive our latest home, design, and style content in your inbox every Wednesday. And follow Veronica (@vtlookbook) and St. Louis Magazine on Instagram (@stlouismag). Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com. Mentioned in this episode: Hearth & Soul Courtney Winet Design  Missouri Botanical Garden  The Studio at Bowood Farms  Wildflowers Floral Design & Events  The Boulevard in Richmond Heights You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: House of Lou: Holiday Entertaining with The Social Affair Catering + Events More episodes of House of Lou See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, host Veronica Theodoro talks with Gretchen Kingma and Tiffany Dill, co-founders of Custom Joy, a St. Louis-based construction company with a focus on accessible home solutions. Kingma and Dill discuss how universal design can help people of all ages live safely and comfortably in their homes. They share practical solutions that can be implemented in the home, and explain how Universal Design Ready (UDR) homes can make future modifications easier and more cost-effective. They also discuss the limitations of ADA compliance in residential spaces and emphasize the importance of proactive planning for accessible living. Tune in to learn how thoughtful design choices can support aging in place and create a home that adapts to your needs over time. Listen and follow House of Lou on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode is sponsored by Karr Bick Kitchen & Bath. Whether you want a new kitchen, laundry room, or children's nursery, Karr Bick Kitchen and Bath can handle it all, creating spaces that are #NothingOrdinary. Schedule a free design consultation today. Got an idea for a future House of Lou episode? We love hearing from our audience. Send your thoughts or feedback to Veronica at vtheodoro@stlmag.com or to podcasts@stlmag.com. We can't wait to hear from you! Looking for more inspiration? Subscribe to our Design+Home newsletter to receive our latest home, design, and style content in your inbox every Wednesday. And follow Veronica (@vtlookbook) and St. Louis Magazine on Instagram (@stlouismag). Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com. Mentioned in this episode: Custom Joy David Deatherage Design Busy Bee Candies Company Interior Motives LLC Wonderwall Rugs Ättlingar North Carolina State University, Center for Universal Design AARP Home Fit Guide Essentials for making your home accessible, including threshold ramps and toilet paper assist bars Kirkwood Lifestyle Home Tour Trees of the Missouri Botanical Garden Lustron House Tour You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: In a historic city house, the magic is in a mix of modern vintage furniture and traditional details Clayton Welcomes a New Place to Shop for Home Decor Meet the interior designer behind a line of rugs handmade in India Ättlingar elevates the bathroom with bespoke medicine cabinets and mirrors More episodes of House of Lou See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join host Veronica Theodoro as she welcomes Julius Hunter to the podcast—a beloved St. Louis journalist, TV anchor, and historic preservationist. Discover Julius' passion for bringing light to St. Louis' rich architectural heritage, highlighted in his two iconic coffee table books on the city's premier private streets. Listen in as he shares stories from his childhood growing up in the shadows of the grand houses on Vandeventer Place, his illustrious and varied career, and his work with the Missouri History Museum, Campbell House Museum, and the Julius K. Hunter and Friends African American Research Collection. Plus, learn about the prestigious Landmarks Association of St. Louis Lifetime Achievement Award he will receive this year. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation. Listen and follow House of Lou on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode is sponsored by Chouteau Building Group. Chouteau Building Group specializes in highly custom construction projects, and collaborates with St. Louis’ best independent architects and designers to build projects that are truly one of a kind. Whether it’s a new build, addition, renovation, historic preservation and restoration, or commercial project, consider Chouteau Building Group for all of your building needs. Visit cbg-stl.com to book your consult. Got an idea for a future House of Lou episode? We love hearing from our audience. Send your thoughts or feedback to Veronica at vtheodoro@stlmag.com or to podcasts@stlmag.com. We can't wait to hear from you! Looking for more inspo? Subscribe to our Design+Home newsletter to receive our latest home, design, and style content in your inbox every Wednesday. And follow Veronica (@vtlookbook) and St. Louis Magazine on Instagram (@stlouismag). Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com. Mentioned in this episode: Julius Hunter Missouri History Museum Campbell House Museum Julius K. Hunter and Friends African American Research Collection Landmarks Association of St. Louis Kingsbury Place Kingsbury Place: The First Two Hundred Years by Julius Hunter Westmoreland and Portland Places: The History and Architecture of America's Premier Private Streets, 1888-1988 by Julius Hunter Vandeventer Place The Great Fire of 1849 Hydraulic Press Brick Company Bellefontaine Cemetery Orchid Society of Greater St. Louis Annual Orchid Auction Missouri Botanical Garden Architect and Designer Awards You may also enjoy these articles from SLM: Behind the rise—and fall—of private streets in St. Louis What happened to Vandeventer Place? How did the Great Fire of 1849 reshape St. Louis? 8 historic house tours in St. Louis Landmarks Association announces its Most Enhanced Awards More episodes of House of Lou See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inside the Architect & Designer Awards is sponsored by Design & Detail. St. Louis Magazine’s Architect & Designer Awards shine a light on some of the region’s top architects, interior designers, artisans, builders, and landscape designers. But what goes into creating these award-winning projects? Inside the Architect & Designer Awards—a video miniseries from the House of Lou podcast—takes you behind the scenes and into the creative process. In this episode, join host Veronica Theodoro as she sits down with Kathleen Grim of Srote & Co. to discuss Grim's winning projects in the 2024 Architect & Designer Awards competition. Watch the interview with Kathleen, hear the stories behind her award-winning work, and come away with inspiration and insights for your next home project. Mentioned in this episode: Oasis Pools We love hearing from you. Send your thoughts or feedback to Veronica at vtheodoro@stlmag.com or to podcasts@stlmag.com. We can't wait to hear from you! Looking for more inspiration? Subscribe to our Design+Home newsletter to receive our latest home, design, and style content in your inbox every Wednesday. And follow Veronica (@vtlookbook) and St. Louis Magazine on Instagram (@stlouismag).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.