The Art of Holistic Design

In this episode, I’m honoured to talk with renowned American woodworker and designer Mira Nakashima, President and Creative Director of George Nakashima Woodworkers, founded by her celebrated father. We discuss Mira’s journey as a daughter, designer, mother, adventurer, one of the first women to gain a Harvard degree, and a businesswoman who has steered the family business to success since her father’s passing. We’ll find out more about the house, studio and workshop in New Hope, Pennsylvania, where she carries on her father’s ‘live edge’ furniture legacy, and hear about the endless inspiration of the woodpile. Episode Sponsor This episode is generously sponsored by Yarn Collective, a British studio creating natural textiles for the global design industry. Prioritising natural fibres and predominantly made in Europe with a craft-led approach, their fabric range encompasses timeless staples and playful, distinctive designs. At Be-Kin, we love specifying Yarn Collective fabrics to bring texture, tone and atmosphere into our interior design projects. https://www.yarncollective.co.uk/ https://www.instagram.com/yarncollective/ Stay connected: Websites www.be-kin.com - please sign up to my monthly newsletter www.wrenloucks.com Instagram: @_be_kin and @wrenloucks Credits Host & Creator: Wren Loucks Production, Audio & Editing: Mike Gosling, Bonfire Video Editorial Production & Research: Alison Smith Original Music: Gordon Smith

In this episode I’ll be talking to British Artist and Designer Sasha Compton, who is internationally recognised for her freehand painting and decorative ceramics. We’ll cover the rituals and habits that nurture creativity; nature as the inspiration and guide; balancing commercial work with self-initiated projects; the importance of structure; finding the ‘why’ to spark ideas and steer direction; and why it makes sense to embrace imperfection. I hope it inspires you in your own creative journey. Episode Sponsor This episode is generously sponsored by Coral + Hive, a studio based in South Africa that creates thoughtful, natural rugs to live beautifully alongside their owners. Every rug begins with the hands and hearts of the weavers – women whose artistry and resilience thread meaning into every fibre. I love specifying rugs from Coral + Hive as I know that they are woven with so much care. The studio’s ethos really resonates with Be-Kin’s as Coral + Hive are passionate about a gentler and slower way of life, and their collection is carefully designed to help simplify and create a sanctuary feeling in the home. https://coralandhive.com https://www.instagram.com/coralandhive Stay connected: Websites www.be-kin.com - please sign up to my monthly newsletter www.wrenloucks.com Instagram: @_be_kin and @wrenloucks Credits Host & Creator: Wren Loucks Production, Audio & Editing: Mike Gosling, Bonfire Video Editorial Production & Research: Alison Smith Original Music: Gordon Smith

In this episode, I’ll be talking to Alan Hughes, Principal of the pioneering Inchbald School of Design, and my former teacher. We’ll discuss the philosophical dimensions of design; Inchbald’s focus on the individual; people’s emotive reactions to designed spaces; allowing your intuition to guide you as a designer; creativity as an instinct that is linked to the survival of early humans; using curiosity to offset the risks of AI; allowing the space to be bored and let you subconscious bubble up; and why you need to be able to dance through your kitchen. Episode Sponsor This episode is generously sponsored by Simon Orrell Designs, celebrated for transforming unconventional materials – such as shagreen, parchment, mica, and straw marquetry – into timeless treasures. The studio creates extraordinary, bespoke pieces for the world’s most discerning clients, from statement sideboards to custom-designed bedsides and beautifully crafted jewellery boxes. I love working with Simon and his team on very special pieces for Be-Kin clients that are not just furniture, but works of art. https://simonorrelldesigns.com/ https://www.instagram.com/simon_orrell_designs/ Stay connected: Websites www.be-kin.com - please sign up to my monthly newsletter www.wrenloucks.com Instagram: @_be_kin and @wrenloucks Credits Host & Creator: Wren Loucks Production, Audio & Editing: Mike Gosling, Bonfire Video Editorial Production & Research: Alison Smith Original Music: Gordon Smith

The Art of Holistic Design podcast illuminates the creative practices and design philosophies behind beautiful, healing spaces. It’s hosted by Wren Loucks, Founder and Creative Director of Be-Kin luxury interior design, a fine artist and teacher, who engages clients in a dialogue that unlocks creativity. Join her for a series of intimate conversations with guests from artisans and craftspeople to design educators and energy healers, exploring the often unseen processes behind their work and personal journeys of creativity. Season 1 launches September 2026. Please subscribe, so you never miss an episode. Stay connected: Websites www.be-kin.com - please sign up to my monthly newsletter www.wrenloucks.com Instagram: @_be_kin and @wrenloucks Credits Host & Creator: Wren Loucks Production, Audio & Editing: Mike Gosling, Bonfire Video Editorial Production & Research: Alison Smith Original Music: Gordon Smith