In this episode of Classic & Curious, Anne Kokoskie sits down with Rosemary Hallgarten, founder of one of the world’s most admired luxury textile houses. 

A British-born, award-winning textile designer and second-generation craftsperson, Rosemary pioneered the use of alpaca in luxury rugs and fabrics, building an internationally recognized brand known for its extraordinary texture and modern artisanal sensibility.

Rosemary shares the story behind her artisan-made rugs, fabrics, throws, and accessories—and her belief that true luxury lies in how thoughtfully and beautifully something is made. 

Their conversation explores sustainable design, natural fibers, traditional craftsmanship, responsible production, and the importance of creating timeless pieces with soul, purpose, and longevity.

For anyone interested in creating a more beautiful and considered home, Rosemary offers an inspiring perspective on choosing fewer, better things—and understanding the human hands, natural materials, and enduring craftsmanship behind them.

This week, Anne welcomes Ann Huff and Meg Harrington, the visionary duo behind Huff Harrington, for a conversation on how a meeting over lunch in Atlanta grew into one of designs most admired creative partnerships. 

Ann and Meg share the evolution of their brand — from selling art out of their kitchens to building a multifaceted business spanning galleries, interiors, retail, curated travel, and Parisian renovations.

Along the way, they reflect on entrepreneurship, the power of complementary strengths, navigating challenges with grace, and the lessons they’ve learned about building a business rooted in trust, beauty, and resilience. They also dive into the art of curation — how to mix old and new, why craftsmanship matters, and the guiding philosophy behind every piece they source: if you love it, it will work.

This episode is an inspiring look at creating a brand with soul, designing with instinct, and building a life — and business — around beauty, story, and connection.  You will absolutely find yourself shopping right after your listen!

This episode explores how to live beautifully through entertaining and interior design with event planner and designer Blake Sams. We discuss how to host meaningful gatherings, design your home with intention, and create an “entertaining capsule.”

Blake is the founder of Gregory Blake Sams Events an award-winning event planning firm known for its flawless execution located in Charleston and New York City. 

Blake's creative talents extend beyond events into interior design, and most recently his signature taste and style can be found in his Charleston shop, Wentworth. His work has been featured in Harper's Bazaar, Veranda, Vogue, and Elle Decor. 

Together we discuss the essence of living beautifully, in ways that may surprise you.

For Blake, it all comes down to something simple.  The people you surround yourself with are the most meaningful detail of any gathering, and for us, that's exactly why this episode is such a delight. 

Today on Classic & Curious, I’m joined by AD100 designer Patrick Mele, whose colorful design journey began at Kate Spade and Ralph Lauren before building  one of today’s most celebrated interior design firms. 

His work has been widely featured in publications including Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Frederic, and New York Magazine. Patrick has been named to the prestigious AD100 List and Elle Decor A-List, and was recognized by Vogue as one of the five designers to watch.

In today's conversation:

• We talk about Patrick's design journey and the evolution of his signature style.

• His vibrant Color Field Collection, and his new launch with Schumacher. 

• His beautifully curated design shop in Greenwich—an extension of his studio, available both in person and online 

• A thoughtful tip for design enthusiasts looking to elevate their own homes with confidence

What strikes you immediately about Patrick is his graciousness. There's a warmth and ease in the way he speaks about design that gently draws you into his creative world. It's a quality that feels as natural to him as the beautiful environments he creates. 

In this episode, we’re inviting you into the world of Pasquale Et Maurice Home, a destination for antiques, artisanal textiles, home décor, and bespoke interior design services. Rooted in Old World craftsmanship and modern sensibility, the shop is paired with a beautifully curated online store showcasing timeless pieces sourced from across Europe and New England.

You are introduced to the Co-founders Lino and Gregory.

Lino, born and raised in Sicily, was immersed in the world of art, design, and luxury fabrics from an early age. The son of entrepreneurs who spent more than forty years in the textile industry, he developed a deep appreciation for aesthetics in all forms—from interiors and materiality to music and culture.

His partner Gregory, raised in Provence, relocated to Sicily at thirty, where he became the creative force behind a series of commercial projects defined by a distinctly Southern Italian, farm-inspired elegance. In 2010, he opened his first concept store and restaurant in Noto, Sicily—a space whose authentic yet refined aesthetic quickly drew international attention from publications including Vogue and Architectural Digest.

Today, their Washington, Connecticut location serves as both a design studio and a gathering place—an inspiring hub where antiques, décor, and interiors are grounded in history, patina, and personal meaning. Every vignette invites pause, memory, and interpretation, speaking differently to each discerning visitor.

Lino and Gregory’s shared philosophy is woven into every detail: warmth, curiosity, and an open invitation to discover what resonates with you. And in this conversation, you’ll hear how their journey—from Sicily and Provence to New York and New England—continues to shape a world where beauty is intentional, stories matter, and nothing is chosen by chance.

This week, as Thanksgiving invites us to gather and give thanks, the dinner table becomes more than a place to eat—it becomes a space to connect, to listen, and to cherish the people we love. Yet in our effort to make it beautiful, we often bring stress to the surface with layers of linens and the pressure to get every detail just right. Sometimes, we simply want things elevated… yet easy.  Thankfully, we have options.

Proper Table is one of them—a collection of acrylic placemats and coasters inspired by vintage fabrics with timeless appeal. Thoughtfully designed for both messy and stylish eaters, these pieces prove that style and simplicity can beautifully coexist.

In this episode, we welcome Dana Lewis, founder of Proper Table. Dana shares how the brand came to life, the effortless care behind these clever textiles, and her exciting collaboration with LA-based interior designer Nate Turner. Proper Table has been featured in House Beautiful and Vogue for its sensibility and style—and it’s no wonder the brand has become a beloved go-to for savvy entertainers who want to keep it easy and elevated.

Dana embodies the very spirit of Proper Table: her timeless taste paired with an effortless sense of ease, she creates the very feeling that you want to bring to your own home.

In this episode, we welcome Amy Neunsinger and Lucinda Lent, the visionary co-founders of l.a. ROUGE—a brand whose very essence lets us light that magic all year long.

Amy is a celebrated photographer, designer, and host of HBO's Capturing Home. Her photography and creative direction has supported the influential lifestyle brands and talents, including Reese Witherspoon, Kate Hudson, Leanne Ford, and Mark D. Sykes. Her work and personal style have appeared in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, the LA Times and countless other publications. 

Combine this strength with Lucinda’s strategic mind, drive and creative business vision — shaped by her leadership as CEO of The Coop and Executive Director LA Dance Project,  you will begin to see why this beautiful brand is beginning to unfold into something truly special. 

l.a. ROUGE candles are not just candles. There are revolution in red — blended from essential oils, each candle is poured into a chic whiskey glass designed to earn its place at the dinner table. 

As you listen to this episode, you will discover the red wick is more than just a signature branding element.  It represents what happens to the heart when a connection is made. You'll feel that same connection with Amy and Lucinda who embody the spirit of l.a. ROUGE — they create moments of joy, intention, and beauty, each in their own unique way.

In this episode, we dive into the world of Varnish Collection, where creativity meets legacy. Anna Garcia and Mary Lovett Beck, the founders of this visionary brand, are not only mothers and entrepreneurs but also role models of grit and grace. Their journey isn't just about creating stunning designs—it's about building a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of women in business.

Varnish Collection is redefining traditional wicker furniture with a modern, fresh perspective. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans, ensuring that every item is a unique work of art. From stylish game tables to elegant lighting, luxurious sofas, and even champagne stands, Varnish Collection adds a distinctive personality to any space.

Featured in renowned publications like Luxe Interiors + Design and Veranda, and showcased in prestigious events such as the Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Designer Showhouse and the Kips Bay Showhouse in NYC, Varnish Collection has earned its place as a top designer brand. You can find their exquisite pieces at high-end design destinations like Mecox Gardens and Hive in Palm Beach.

Whether you're looking to elevate your home decor or simply want to learn from two powerful women in design, this episode offers a deep dive into the art of creating timeless, handcrafted pieces that embody both style and substance.

Explore the legacy of Varnish Collection today.