Episode 3
Valerie Garrett
on Collaboration, Creativity, and
Design Responsibility
In this episode, AH&L Publisher Elizabeth Ralls is joined by Valerie Garrett of Valerie Garrett Interiors, the lead specifications designer behind the unforgettable 2025 Home for the Holidays Designer Showhouse. Valerie shares her journey from participating designer to leading the charge—what the leap really looks like and how it reshapes your perspective on collaboration, creativity, and responsibility. Along the way, Valerie talks what it takes to strike harmony between visionary design, partner expectations, and the future buyer walking through the front door. From an anxiety-inducing terrace level that transformed into one of the home’s most talked-about spaces, to breathtaking second-floor details, the duo explore the artistry and intention behind every specification at the inspiring showhouse.
Get the Breakdown:
00:30 Welcome & Introduction
01:10 From participating designer to lead specifications designer…what does that jump look like in the 2025 Home for the Holidays Designer Showhouse?
03:45 How “problem children” challenge your design—and ultimately lead to something better
08:00 Stunner stones! And finding the right style balance in a showhouse
13:00 How the specifications designer collectively accomplishes the goal of a showhouse: designing with a future buyer in mind while also pleasing partners—and yourself
17:45 How this showhouse personally reflects Valerie, plus the client she created in her mind while designing
21:30 An anxiety-inducing terrace level and how it turned into one of the most talked about spaces
23:00 Valerie’s favorite second-level design details (curved walls, grand tile, and jewelry-like faucets)
24:30 The Atlanta design community & closing notes
Tune in every time! Take us with you! Listen to In Residence on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
A peek inside Valerie Garrett’s portfolio:
left to right A limestone range hood is an impressive focal point due to its fluted details, balancing the kitchen’s linear elements. Framed by cut velvet draperies, an antique sofa re-covered in pink velvet creates a spot to relax or converse in a light-filled hallway
A few more notes:
See more of the 2025 Home for the Holidays showhouse at atlantahomesmag.com.
Like what you see? Follow us on social at @atlantahomesmag for more inspired spaces.
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Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles
Published since 1983, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles is the city’s only monthly home and garden magazine. Dedicated to showcasing the best in design for our city, the publication also serves as a definitive guide to cultivating Atlanta style, offering unmatched entrée into the area’s most inspiring residences. A longtime champion of the Atlanta design community, AH&L’s coverage of local design professionals, premier shops and showrooms, decorative and fine arts, restaurants and cultural events is second to none.