Hollywood style is synonymous with the work of interior designer Barbara Barry. But it's not about glitz. Instead, she creates quiet refuges that nurture the artist in all of us.

You were raised in a family of painters. What did this teach you about learning to look?
My mother was my most vibrant mentor. She taught me that style has nothing to do with money. She painted our rooms wonderful colors and always named them for the mood they evoked -- like Elephant's Breath for a smoky gray-green taupe -- so I learned early about the power of my surroundings on my emotions, and I still work from that today.

What’s the easiest way to change a room’s mind?
Color! It is still the most impactive single stroke. Just imagine a cool blue room at four o'clock in winter versus a red room!



What are some of the common mistakes people make in designing their homes that detract from the beauty of the space?
They put in too much stuff and too many different patterns and lose that very precious feeling of tranquility that only a calm and simple space can give you.

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