We've long admired New York-based designer, Jennifer Hunter, for her colorful and traditional interiors. Following along to learn more about Jennifer and see how she styled Emma Chartreuse, Lilac Velvet and Hockney Sky for a vibrant, couch pillowscape!
First off, tell us a little bit about yourself!
I am an interior designer based in New York City with projects all over the country from Chicago to Houston to Palm Beach. I discovered my love for architecture and design at a very young age. My grandfather was a developer in D.C., so I would spend Sundays with him visiting job sites. I was inspired to pursue a 5 year architecture program at The University of Texas, Austin, and spent my summers in NYC where I had the privilege of interning for the design legend, Albert Hadley. Upon graduation, I earned my masters degree in American Fine and Decorative Arts from the Sotheby’s Institute of Art in New York City and was then hired by one of Mr. Hadley’s lead designers and helped him launch his business. From there I built extensive design knowledge and experience at residential design firms before forming Jennifer Hunter Design in early 2019. Now, we’re very busy and every day looks different over at JHD! It’s a whirlwind but so much fun and very fulfilling work.
How would you describe your style? Where do you find inspiration?
My design aesthetic is traditional with a fresh twist. Living in New York City inspires me – there’s legendary art, inspiration, and creativity around every corner!
What does your home say about you?
My home is a reflection of my aesthetic and filled with treasures that I have collected and curated over the years.
Pictured here: 22" Lilac Velvet piped in Sky, 22" Emma Chartreuse pillow piped in Lilac, 22" Hockney Sky pillow piped in Loomi Moss
Walk us through how you styled the pillows! How did you choose which patterns and piping to use?
I have this beautiful piece of art by Cate West Zahl behind our gingham upholstered sectional, which was the driving force behind my pillow selections. I wanted to pick up on the palette of purples, blues, and greens. As you will see, each of the fabrics has a contrasting piping detail that correlates to the colors within my pillow bundle.
Pictured here: 22" Lilac Velvet piped in Sky, 22" Emma Chartreuse pillow piped in Lilac, 22" Hockney Sky pillow piped in Loomi Moss
How do you approach styling with different sizes? What's your rule of thumb for how many pillows go on a sofa?
The shape and size of your sofa will determine how many pillows are needed to dress up your sofa. For my own sofa specifically, I decided to use 3 different pillows in the same size. This approach allowed me to mix fabrics and patterns, while keeping consistency.
*Need help picking the right size for your couch or chair? Check our pillow size guide!
Pictured here: 22" Lilac Velvet piped in Sky, 22" Emma Chartreuse pillow piped in Lilac, 22" Hockney Sky pillow piped in Loomi Moss
Do you stick to any design rules when mixing and matching patterns and colors?
When mixing and matching patterns and colors I always consider scale, proportion, and consistency. I want the mix of my patterns to feel balanced. For example, if I use a large abstract pattern, like the Hockney, I will also incorporate something more tailored like a stripe or geometric pattern, similar to the Emma. Then to break up both patterns, I like to mix in a solid in a different material, like the Lilac Velvet. All colors used should relate back to your overall design scheme or pick up on a focal point in the room like art or a vintage Oushak carpet.
Pictured here: 22" Lilac Velvet piped in Sky, 22" Emma Chartreuse pillow piped in Lilac, 22" Hockney Sky pillow piped in Loomi Moss
One of our mottos is "a little goes a long way". What are a few ways to elevate your living room that don't require a full renovation or splurging on new furniture?
Accessories will be your best friend. From season to season I like to switch out my room accents, swapping in new decor, lampshades, seasonal pillows and throws.
Pictured here: 22" Lilac Velvet piped in Sky, 22" Emma Chartreuse pillow piped in Lilac, 22" Hockney Sky pillow piped in Loomi Moss
Favorite design book?
Color crush of the moment?
I am loving all shades of pink at the moment!
Wallpaper or paint?
Wallpaper (always)
Favorite project you've worked on?
My parent's 1960s Palm Beach Revival Condo