Welcome to Holistic Interior Design, a podcast exploring the people, spaces, materials, and rituals shaping the future of intentional design. Hosted by interior designer and creative director Rachel Crawford of Tiger Veil, this show goes beyond aesthetics to examine how thoughtful spaces influence emotion, connection, hospitality, wellbeing, and experience. Through conversations with artists, makers, hoteliers, founders, and creative visionaries, alongside behind the scenes studio stories, design audits, seasonal rituals, and weekly reflections, Rachel shares a holistic perspective on designing spaces that feel as meaningful as they are beautiful. From boutique hotels and restaurants to homes, wellness spaces, and immersive brand experiences, Holistic Interior Design is for creatives, founder operators, and anyone drawn to spaces with depth, story, and intention. Topics include: • hospitality + boutique hotel design • sensory experience + guest psychology • artists, makers, and material discoveries • rituals for the home and workplace • Feng Shui + energetic alignment • wellness and intentional living • storytelling through interiors • founder journeys + creative process • behind the scenes of a design studio • emerging brands shaping the future of design The best spaces don’t just look good. They change how people feel.
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October 6, 202638 min
183: What's Your Collector Personality? Sonya Sparks on Art, Curation & Hospitality
Art can be the most memorable thing in a hotel or restaurant, or the most forgettable. Sonya Sparks of Sparks Gallery returns to share her new art-leasing program for hospitality and corporate spaces, plus the personality quiz that reshaped how her gallery curates. In this episode: The four collector personalities (confident, connected, compassionate, conscientious) and the curated collections built around them How art leasing works: quarterly rotations, three package sizes, and why a fresh collection keeps staff and repeat guests engaged The logistics owners ask about: hanging systems that protect wallpaper, insurance, and where the art comes from Turning each new artist into a marketing moment, with on-site receptions and art guests can buy Why art should come first in a design, not last, and what a curator can do when it didn't Why silence from guests about your space is a signal worth listening to Sonya Sparks is the owner and chief curator of Sparks Gallery, showing contemporary Southern California art from a historic building in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter. She works with about 100 local artists and curates art for homes, hotels and corporate spaces. Mentioned / links: Take the collector personality quiz: https://sparksgallery.com/pages/quiz Sparks Gallery: https://sparksgallery.com Sparks Gallery on Instagram: @sparksgallery Episode 133: Creating Space for Local Artists with Sonya Sparks Next week: a design audit of the Sparks Gallery space itself (ep 184) See the visuals: Photos from Sonya's latest hotel installation are in the Behind the Veil newsletter Work with Rachel: rachel@tigerveil.com · Instagram: @tigerveil
June 15, 202630 min
182: Gemini New Moon Ritual: Listening to the Body Beneath the Thoughts
In this episode, I’m bringing back something that has always felt deeply aligned for me: new moon rituals. This Gemini New Moon invites us into the space between the mind and the body — where our thoughts, stories, and patterns are asking to be felt, not just figured out. With Mercury moving through Cancer and Chiron beginning its shift into Taurus, this ritual is centered around emotional honesty, self-worth, safety, receiving, and nurturing the parts of ourselves that are becoming someone new. I’ll guide you through a collective tarot reading, a seven-card new moon spread, and journal prompts to help you set an embodied intention for the next lunar cycle. This is not another task on your list. This is sacred time. Bring a candle, your tarot or oracle deck, a journal, and a quiet space to listen inward. In this episode, we explore: The energy of the Gemini New Moon Mercury in Cancer and listening beneath the mental noise Chiron in Taurus and healing around worth, safety, and receiving A seven-card tarot spread for emotional clarity Journal prompts to support your new moon intention New Moon Intention Prompt I am nurturing the part of me that is ready to ______, and I support myself by ______. May this new moon help you soften your mind, listen to your body, and trust the wisdom rising from within. Mentioned in this episode: Tiarni Talks for astrology insights Tiarnie Talks Podcast https://www.tiarnie.com.au/ Links Listen to the Hospitality Design Talks Podcast Join the newsletter: Behind the Veil Secrets, musings, and design magic await in your inbox. Work with Rachel: Design inquiries + consultations rachel@tigerveil.com Instagram: @tigerveil
June 9, 202615 min
181: The Return of Holistic Interior Design
After a meaningful pause, Holistic Interior Design is back with a renewed sense of clarity, depth, and intention. In this reintroduction episode, host Rachel Larraine Crawford shares what led her away from the podcast, what brought her back, and how this next chapter is evolving. What began as a podcast about interiors is becoming a richer exploration of the people, spaces, materials, rituals, and emotional layers shaping the future of intentional design. Rachel opens the episode with a tarot pull from her original Rider-Waite Coleman Smith deck, drawing a card that is a fitting symbol for the restart of the podcast and the new direction ahead. This episode is both a welcome back and a declaration of what Holistic Interior Design is becoming: more visual, more interactive, more behind-the-scenes, and more rooted in the unseen layers of space. Links Join the newsletter: Behind the Veil Secrets, musings, and design magic await in your inbox. Work with Rachel: Design inquiries + consultations rachel@tigerveil.com Instagram: @tigerveil @rachellarraine
November 11, 202527 min
180: Behind the Veil - Refreshing a Legacy Brazilian Steakhouse (on a Real Budget)
This week, I’m taking you behind the veil of a real-time project: a 3,000-sq-ft, family-run Brazilian steakhouse in San Diego’s Gaslamp. After smoke and water damage from last year’s fire, the owners asked us to refresh on a very tight budget—without losing legacy. We’re building a nature-forward concept inspired by butterfly wings, jungle softness, and river ripples to attract a younger, social-sharing guest while honoring the founder’s story. You’ll hear how we’re sequencing high-impact moves (starting with “crystal cave” restrooms), reusing what we can (table bases, lighting locations), and designing zones with intentional lighting, textures, and screens to create mystery and flow. If you want to see the visuals, hop on the Behind the Veil newsletter. What you’ll learn How to build a concept from a single heritage artifact (and make it feel intentional, not theme-y). Budget-savvy upgrades: large-format tile, prefab counters, selective lacquer, and zone-specific sconces. How to handle immovable elements at the entrance (hello, salad/hot bar) with screening and lighting. Restroom strategies that elevate guest experience and inclusivity (family-friendly layouts). Practical ways to use lighting and soft dividers to create flow, intimacy, and discoverability. Links Listen to the Hospitality Design Talks Podcast Join the newsletter: Behind the Veil Secrets, musings, and design magic await in your inbox. Work with Rachel: Design inquiries + consultations rachel@tigerveil.com Instagram: @tigerveil
October 22, 20252 min
Quick little update from Rachel
Hey everyone—Rachel here with a quick update on the future of this podcast and where I’m currently focusing my creative energy. I’ve been deep in reflection and realignment—personally, professionally, and creatively. That means this podcast will be taking a pause for the time being as I shift my focus toward new directions that are lighting me up, especially in the hospitality design space. ✨ What’s next? I’m diving deeper into restaurant and hospitality design and will be focusing my energy on the Hospitality Design Talks podcast. https://hdt.captivate.fm/listen I’ve also launched a brand new podcast for ASID San Diego called Interior Design San Diego—a weekly show specifically for interior designers, industry partners, and design professionals. If you're in the field, this is a great space to gain insight on business practices and community happenings. https://interior-design-sd.captivate.fm/listen All previous episodes of this podcast will remain available, and I’ll be sharing more exciting updates in the hospitality world soon. Thanks for being here—and for your continued support on this evolving journey. 🖥️ Connect with me: Instagram: instagram.com/tigerveil Email: rachel@tigerveil.com
September 16, 20258 min
179: Virgo Season Reset: Decluttering with Intention
Have you ever noticed how certain seasons make you want to reset — to clear the clutter, reorganize your space, and find a little more flow? That’s not random — that’s Virgo energy at work. In this episode of the Holistic Interior Design Podcast, Rachel taps into the wisdom of Virgo season — the zodiac’s call to simplify, systemize, and realign your home and life. She even pulls a tarot card, the Wheel of Fortune, to guide us through the shifts and cycles we’re all moving through right now. Virgo energy is about clarity, rhythm, and release — not perfection. This is your time to: Declutter with intention, letting go of items (and energy) that no longer align with you or who you are becoming. Reorganize your spaces in ways that truly support your rhythm and well-being Create more mental, emotional, and physical spaciousness for what’s next Think of it as an autumn reset — like spring cleaning, but for the soul. Whether it’s clearing cobwebs in your attic, letting go of clothes you’ll never wear again, or finally cleaning up your digital desktop, Virgo season is your invitation to lighten the load and make room for flow. So if you’ve been feeling the nudge to get organized, release, and realign with the season — this episode is for you. Your Turn: Do you have a Virgo season ritual or autumn clearing practice you return to each year? Rachel would love to hear what helps you reset. ✨ Special Invitation: If you’re in San Diego, Rachel is co-hosting a Libra Dinner Gathering on Sunday, September 28th at 5:30 PM in partnership with Alchemy Choose Thy Poison . This intimate evening will weave together astrology, tarot, seasonal foods, and sacred ritual — all centered on Libra’s energy of balance, beauty, and harmony. Reserve your seat here. Interested in working with Rachel? Email her to inquire rachel@tigerveil.com
June 10, 202536 min
178: Floors with a Soul: The Purpose-Driven Story Behind Geneva Flooring
I sat down with the incredibly wise and wildly grounded Lisa Wells, owner of Geneva Flooring, and let me just say… this convo was equal parts design deep dive and soulful reminder that how we build our spaces matters . Lisa brings over 25 years of experience in the flooring world — but more than that, she brings heart. We talk about why flooring is foundational (literally and emotionally), how sustainable choices start with awareness, and why her team’s long-time trade relationships are the secret sauce. And yes, we totally nerd out on things like wool carpets, cork floors, and what to do before you fall in love with that Pinterest board inspiration. Quick Links & Goodies: Visit Geneva Flooring: genevaflooring.com Follow Lisa & the team on IG: @genevaflooring1 💌 Before You Go: If this episode lit something up for you — maybe you’re in the middle of a reno, dreaming of a future space, or you just love hearing women talk shop — share it with a friend who gets it . Screenshot, tag us, leave a review… it truly means the world. Looking to work with Rachel? Reach out at rachel@tigerveil.com
May 27, 202528 min
177: Handmade, Heart-Led, and Carbon Neutral: Fireclay’s Commitment to Conscious Craft
What happens when a love for art, sustainability, and soulful living collide? You get Caitlyn Child—and her work with Fireclay Tile is proof that design can be radically beautiful and rooted in deep intention. Today’s guest is Caitlyn Child, the Vice President of Sales at Fireclay Tile, a certified B-Corp and pioneer in handmade, sustainability-focused tile. But Caitlyn isn’t just in sales—she’s in the business of storytelling through space. And she’s here to show us how thoughtful materials, slow design, and a passion for people can transform more than just a home… they can shift the way we live and connect. How Caitlyn Turned Her Creative Roots Into a Purpose-Led Career From antique-hunting childhoods to art history studies to a decade in social work (!), Caitlyn’s journey wasn’t linear—but it was aligned. She eventually found her way to Fireclay after studying architecture and falling in love with the tactile, earthy nature of clay. Now, she’s helping lead a company that’s redefining what it means to build sustainably in a waste-heavy industry. Why Fireclay Isn’t Just Another Tile Company When we say Fireclay is doing things differently, we mean it. This isn’t just another trendy brand trying to ride the green wave. They were the first tile company to use lead-free glazes back in 1986, and they’ve stayed true to their roots ever since. Every single tile is handmade to order in California and Washington, using domestically sourced minerals, recycled water, and reclaimed materials. They’re not just carbon-neutral—they’re designing beauty from the ground up with intention, artistry, and innovation. What Makes Handmade Tile So Magical Caitlyn walked me through all the nuances that make handmade tile special—from natural variation in oxides to the way light hits a glaze. You can literally feel the difference. Their tiles tell a story: of mineral-rich soil, of skilled hands, of conscious choices. We talk about the emotional, artistic, and even spiritual connection people have with materials that come from the Earth. And how Fireclay partners with designers to translate that energy into custom, intentional work. When Design Becomes a Healing Practice This episode isn’t just about tile—it’s about the people behind the spaces. Caitlyn shares how Fireclay is empowering its reps and collaborators to create community-led events that are as soulful as they are strategic. And it’s why I’m SO thrilled to be part of their upcoming Summer Solstice Gathering at their Costa Mesa showroom. This isn’t another salesy mixer. It’s a nourishing, heart-centered celebration of creativity, connection, and ritual. Expect astrology, tarot, design inspiration, and real talk about how to support your clients not just aesthetically—but energetically. Why This Conversation Matters In a time where the building industry often prioritizes speed and scale, this episode is a grounding reminder that slowness, integrity, and beauty still matter. Fireclay is proof that innovation doesn’t have to mean cutting corners—it can mean digging deeper. Whether you’re a designer, a homeowner, or just someone who wants to bring more intention into your spaces, this episode will inspire you to think about materials—and relationships—in a whole new way. Highlights We Cover: Caitlyn’s path from social work to sustainable tile Why Fireclay puts people and planet over profit (and still thrives) How handmade tile becomes a tool for storytelling and legacy Why community and creativity are at the heart of their business model What to expect from the Summer Solstice Gathering in Costa Mesa Come Join Us! Summer Solstice Event Fireclay Showroom, Costa Mesa, CA Thursday, June 13 | 4–7pm Astrology, tarot, sacred intention setting, community connection, and so much more. RSVP Here Connect with Caitlyn + Fireclay 👉 fireclaytile.com 👉 @fireclaytile on Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, YouTube, and Facebook One Last Thing… At the very end of our chat, I asked Caitlyn what she does to stay grounded—and her answer gave me chills. From daily meditation to sending one heartfelt message to someone every day, her practice is a beautiful reminder that presence is power. Whether it’s a tile, a text, or a ritual, we all have the ability to infuse our lives with more meaning. I hope this conversation inspires you to do just that. My Best, Rachel
May 20, 202513 min
176: Designing for Gemini Season: Lightness, Curiosity & Connection in Your Space
🌬️ Designing for Gemini Season: Lightness, Curiosity & Connection in Your Space Welcome back to the Holistic Interior Design Podcast! I’m Rachel Lorraine Crawford, your host and designer. In this episode, we’re tuning into the vibrant, airy, and curious energy of Gemini season —a time of mental stimulation, adaptability, and deep connection through communication. We often feel the urge to shift our spaces without quite knowing why—and Gemini season gives us a beautiful reason. With the Sun moving into this mutable air sign, we’re invited to embrace design that’s light, playful, and dynamic—just like Gemini energy itself. In this episode, I guide you through: How Gemini season energetically impacts your space and mindset The core traits of Gemini and how they translate into interior design Practical tips to bring airiness, movement, and mental clarity into your home or hospitality setting Ideas for incorporating sound, scent, texture, and tech to support Gemini’s playful and communicative spirit What kinds of communal spaces, materials, and experiences reflect Gemini’s dual and curious nature You’ll leave with: Ideas for creating conversation zones, flexible layouts, and multi-use spaces Ways to refresh your space with unexpected colors, mirrored surfaces, and natural textures Suggestions for Gemini-inspired rituals, like sound clearing or creating curiosity corners Examples of Gemini-aligned commercial spaces Whether you're a Gemini sun, moon, rising—or just want to ride this energetic wave—you’ll find ideas to uplift your home, creative practice, or hospitality space. I'd love to hear how you're tapping into Gemini energy this season! Leave me a voice message with your thoughts or questions via our Ask a Designer Hotline at speakpipe.com/hid — we may feature your message on an upcoming episode! Remember: Gemini reminds us that design doesn’t have to be fixed—it can be playful, evolving, and responsive. So try something new, explore a fresh idea, or simply open your windows and let the breeze shift the energy. You’ve got the support of the cosmos behind you. Until next time, stay curious and stay connected. ✨
May 13, 202514 min
175 - Designing for Taurus Season: Grounding, Beauty & Sensory Rituals for Your Home
This episode is for anyone who’s been craving a slower pace, a deeper connection to home, and a little more beauty in the everyday. As we step into Taurus season, I’m inviting you to look at your space—not just as a backdrop, but as an active part of your well-being. Taurus energy is grounded, sensual, and rooted in beauty and value. It’s about slowing down, enjoying life’s pleasures, and surrounding yourself with what truly matters. In this episode, I walk you through how to design for this powerful energy in a way that’s accessible and intentional. I’ll guide you through Feng Shui tips for activating your wealth corner, share the essential oils and crystals that support Taurus season, and offer simple, luxurious upgrades you can bring into your space right now—like cozy throws, bath rituals, flower arrangements, and grounding materials. We also dive into journaling prompts to help you reconnect with your space and ask yourself: What feels indulgent? Where do I feel most grounded? What does abundance really look like for me—and does my space reflect that? Whether you're designing a full room or just creating a small ritual around your morning tea, this episode is a reminder that beauty is a portal to alignment. Taurus asks us to stop rushing and start feeling. So let’s design a space that works with that rhythm. If you're navigating change, craving clarity, or just want to feel more rooted at home—this one's for you. Mentioned in the Episode: The Flower Oracle: Daffodil card (patience, beginnings, vitality) Essential Oils: Rose, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Sandalwood Crystals: Citrine, Pyrite, Jade, Garnet Rituals: Morning tea, bath time, setting your kitchen as an altar Want to go deeper? Submit your design questions or dilemmas—I'd love to feature your voice on the show: speakpipe.com/hid If this episode resonated, take a moment to share it, leave a review, or tag me on Instagram. It helps more creatives and conscious homemakers find our community. Let’s continue to create beauty, together. —Rachel
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