In this episode of Designing in 5D, Jodi Peterman sits down with Nicholas of Zenith Design + Build to unpack what actually makes a remodel successful — beyond pretty plans and Pinterest inspiration.

A well-designed space isn’t just about the vision. It’s about how that vision comes to life. Nicholas shares how strong designer–builder partnerships, clear pricing frameworks, and intentional processes reduce chaos, minimize change orders, and create better outcomes for homeowners.

Together, Jodi and Nicholas explore why design and construction should never be “oil and water,” how early collaboration prevents budget surprises, and why tools like 3D renderings and transparent pricing help clients make confident decisions — even when pivoting is part of the process.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why the designer is the bridge between client vision and builder execution
• How early design + pricing alignment prevents budget stress later
• The role of 3D visuals in reducing indecision and change orders
• Why “free estimates” often lead to apples-to-oranges comparisons
• How measuring process, communication, and timelines improves client experience
• What homeowners should ask before hiring a builder or design team

Whether you’re planning a remodel, building a home, or working in the design or construction industry, this episode offers practical insight into creating projects that feel clear, collaborative, and well-executed from start to finish.

🎧 Listen now and follow Designing in 5D so you don’t miss what’s next.

Clarity is the ultimate luxury—and it might be the one thing saving your remodel from chaos.

In today’s episode of Designing in 5D, Jodi Peterman is joined by Anna Hackathorn, an award-winning interior designer based in the South Bay of Los Angeles with 30+ years of experience, and the creator of Plan and Elevate, a course designed to help homeowners plan better when they can’t (or don’t want to) hire full-service design.

They dive into the real behind-the-scenes of design:

• Why expectations must be set before demo
• What happens when clients try to “split the difference” (some DIY + some designer)
• How designers and contractors should divide responsibilities (without double markup confusion)
• The hidden reason timelines slip (and how to reduce it)
• Decision fatigue, scope creep, and the psychology of projects
• Why your project needs more front-end planning time than you think

Connect with Anna Hackathorn:
Website + course info: artsandhomes.com

Free download from Elizabeth Erin Designs:
Decision Confidence Toolkit: https://elizabetherindesigns.com/free-confidence-tool-kit-for-homeowners/

Subscribe for weekly episodes on intentional design, clarity, budgeting, and creating homes that feel as good as they look.

A retreat isn’t about luxury amenities or square footage — it’s about how a space makes you feel.

In this episode of Designing in 5D, Jodi Peterman breaks down the five essential principles of outdoor retreat design and explains why the most successful outdoor spaces don’t impress — they invite you to soften.

We’re talking about:

• Creating intentional thresholds between inside and outside
• Designing for privacy so spaces feel held, not watched
• How to build meaningful zones for rest, ritual, connection, and solitude
• Choosing comfort-first materials that actually invite lingering
• Using consistency in color and materials to create seamless indoor-outdoor flow

From vacation rentals and hospitality spaces to multifamily communities and private homes, this episode explores how intentional outdoor design increases emotional connection — and why that connection directly impacts ROI.

If you’ve ever wondered why some patios feel cozy and memorable while others fall flat, this episode will shift how you see outdoor spaces forever.

✨ Because great outdoor design doesn’t have to be grand — it just has to be intentional.

What if your backyard wasn’t an afterthought—but a fully designed extension of how you live?

In this episode of Designing in 5D, Jodi Peterman sits down with Matt Kaldenberg of PBS Landscaping and Victoria Buldhaupt of Nature’s Palette to talk about a new, collaborative approach to outdoor living in the Des Moines area.

From pools and pickleball courts to landscaping, lighting, furniture, and future-phase planning, this conversation breaks down what it really looks like to design backyard spaces intentionally—without chaos, rework, or surprise expenses.

We cover:

• Why one integrated team changes everything
• How thoughtful planning protects both vision and investment
• The biggest mistakes homeowners make when starting pool projects
• Outdoor trends focused on connection, wellness, and everyday enjoyment
• What realistic timelines and budgets actually look like in Iowa

If you’re considering a pool, outdoor entertainment space, or long-term backyard plan, this episode will help you think bigger—and smarter—about what’s possible.

✨ Because the best spaces aren’t rushed. They’re designed.

Matt Kaldenberg PBS Landscaping: https://kaldenbergslandscaping.com/

Victoria Buldhapt Natures Pallet:https://www.naturespalettelandscape.com/about

Luxury isn’t marble countertops or oversized chandeliers — it’s how a space makes you feel.

In this episode of Designing in 5D, Jodi breaks down the difference between homes that look good online and spaces that actually feel like a five-star retreat. After more than two decades designing residential, hospitality, and vacation rental spaces, she shares three out-of-the-box design moves you can apply right now — without a full remodel.

You’ll learn:

• Why the most luxurious spaces reduce friction and support your nervous system
• How to design like a host, not a decorator
• The “exhale moment” that sets the tone the second you walk in
• The simple two-touch rule that makes luxury tangible
• Why five-star spaces never send you on a scavenger hunt

This is a pen-and-paper episode — practical, actionable, and grounded in real life. If you want your home (or rental) to feel intentional, elevated, and deeply cared for, this one’s for you.

✨ Ready to apply this to your own home with clarity and confidence?
Download the Decision Confidence Toolkit to get clear before you spend money on choices that don’t align with your lifestyle or intentions.
👉 https://elizabetherindesigns.com/free-confidence-tool-kit-for-homeowners/

In this episode of Designing in 5D, Jodi Peterman sits down with Haylee Meador to talk about the part of design that changes everything — the floor plan.

Because any designer can make a space look pretty… but if the layout doesn’t support your daily life, your home will never feel calm, functional, or “right.”

Haylee breaks down what she looks for the moment a floor plan hits her screen — from traffic patterns and entry points to furniture planning, kitchen clearances, window alignment, and the tiny details (like light switch placement) that most people don’t think about until it’s too late.

You’ll hear real examples of how “final” architectural plans still need interior design eyes — and why catching layout issues early can save major time, money, and change orders during construction.

In this episode, we cover:

• What designers notice first when reviewing a floor plan
• Why furniture planning should happen before you build
• Common flow mistakes that make homes feel awkward or cramped
• How designers, architects, cabinet designers, and trades work together
• Why clients often “sacrifice space” on paper… and regret it in real life
• How the 5D Process creates homes that feel aligned, not just styled

If you’re planning a remodel, new build, or you’re living in a home that just doesn’t flow — this episode will change how you think about your layout.

🎧 Listen now, and if you want a plan that supports how you live (today and years from now), connect with us at ElizabethErinDesigns.com or follow along on Instagram + Facebook @ElizabethErinDesigns.

Until next time — design with purpose, lead with love, and always achieve your vision.

If you’re heading into 2026 craving a clean slate—but refusing the pressure-based January hustle—you’re not alone. In this episode of Designing in 5D, Jodi Peterman shares how she builds her annual vision board with intention, grounding, and love instead of trends, timelines, or performative goals.

Drawing from her background as an interior designer, Jodi walks you through vision boarding the same way she designs spaces: using mood, energy, themes, and feeling as your true north. She opens up about personal transitions, rebuilding joy after major life changes, and why her year doesn’t start in January—but in alignment.

You’ll learn:

• Why choosing a word for the year matters more than a long goal list
• How to create vision board “genres” like sanctuary, play & learn, travel, and service
• Why spring energy—not winter pressure—is where real momentum begins
• How to anchor your vision with intentions that gently guide your subconscious
• Ways to keep your vision board present so it actually shapes your year

This episode is an invitation to slow down, plant seeds, and design a life you actually want to live inside—one rooted in joy, embodiment, and clarity.

A downloadable prompt is included in the show notes to help you begin your own vision board, whether you’re starting fresh or rebuilding with intention.

✨ Design your year on purpose.
✨ Build from love, not pressure.
✨ And remember—joy is a direction.

Hit Follow on Spotify so you don’t miss what’s coming next, and if you create your vision board, tag or DM Jodi on Instagram @elizabetherindesigns.

AI is already in your client’s hands. The real question: are you leading the conversation, or letting it lead your projects?

Recorded live from KBIS, I’m joined by Jenna Gaidusek — designer, educator, and founder of AI for Interior Designers — for a practical, real-world conversation about where AI elevates the client experience, where it falls apart, and how designers stay in the driver’s seat with integrity.

We talk about:

• Why “good enough” AI visuals don’t replace professional design leadership
• How to use AI to streamline the parts of the workflow you never want to do again
• Keeping your voice intact so your marketing still sounds like you
• The client-trust play: disclosure, education, and using AI as a communication tool
• Tools designers should explore now (Gemini + Nano Banana, Canva AI, Perplexity, Copilot, Claude)
• The one thing you never hand over to AI: sensitive financial/client info
• What luxury firms are doing right now to stay ahead

This episode is for designers who want to stay creative, profitable, and in control — while the industry evolves in real time.

Guest Information:
Jenna Gaidusek
Founder, AI for Interior Designers
Website: www.aiforinteriordesigners.ia

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