Many trend forecasting experts predict that traditional design will be bigger than ever in 2023 and perhaps no retailer knows this better than Ballard Designs. Founded in 1983 by Helen Ballard, it began as a catalog with a two-page black-and-white brochure featuring a replica of a dolphin-accented table from the founder’s Atlanta home. This product became the brand’s first big seller.
In 1996, the company merged with Cornerstone Brands, which was a publisher of home and retail catalogs. In 2017, that parent company was acquired by Liberty Interactive, which was renamed Qurate Retail Group the following year. Today Qurate owns a variety of brands in the fashion as well as home and design spaces in addition to Ballard Designs including QVC, HSN, Frontgate, Garnet Hill, Grandin Road, and Zulily.
As of 2023, Ballard Designs operates eighteen retail and outlet locations across thirteen states. The brand circulates more than 19 million catalogs annually as well as operates a successful e-commerce business.
While Ballard is traditional in terms of aesthetic, when it comes to social media, they are more than modern with nearly 430k followers on Instagram, a thriving account on Tiktok, and a popular podcast called How To Decorate.
Traditional Design For Today
Ballard’s team of designers prides itself on creating pieces inspired by both travels and trends. Everything from beds to sofas, outdoor furniture, and even smaller decorative objects have a timeless element to them. There is something for every room in the home.
As traditional design is set to make a huge comeback in 2023, Ballard's president, Karen Mooney tells me, “We don’t believe [traditional design] ever left. “Ballard has always embraced classic design as part of a timeless, layered look that encompasses everything from Louis XVI chairs to contemporary acrylic tables.”
In 2022, the first Design Studio concept store debuted in West Palm Beach, Florida. Design Studios were created to provide customers with an edited assortment of furniture and décor, as well as a streamlined process for customization, as many pieces such as sofas and chairs are customizable with a very generous selection of upholstery.