Designer Spotlight: Jennifer Hunter
Rooted in Tradition, Designed for Today: Jennifer Hunter’s Timeless Point of View
*Image Credit Kirsten Francis
With a background in architecture and American fine and decorative arts, Interior Designer Jennifer Hunter brings a distinctive blend of tailored elegance and eclectic warmth to her work. Based in New York City, her boutique design firm is celebrated for creating sophisticated yet deeply personal spaces. Jennifer’s interiors reflect a passion for timeless beauty and thoughtful storytelling.
Jennifer Hunter brings a refined yet personal touch to every space she designs. In this exclusive interview, she shares her philosophy on creating rooms with soul—where classic foundations, global influences, and thoughtful layers come together to reflect the lives within them. From her early inspirations to her curated Wisteria edit, Jennifer invites us into her world of design that is both rooted in tradition and refreshingly modern.
A Lifelong Passion: The Origins of a Designer’s Eye
How and when did you know you wanted to be a designer?
I knew from a very young age. My first memory of “designing” was from when I was 5 years old. My mother had wallpaper installers hanging new wallpaper in our home and I was fascinated by the idea of wallpaper. I spent the entire day watching their every move and technique. That next day, while my mother was out, I was determined to wallpaper my parents' bedroom. I spent the morning drawing patterns all over construction paper, and that afternoon, I concocted a paste from glue and water and then proceeded to plaster my “wallpaper creations” around their bedroom.
What was the main inspiration that led you into this field?
I would say really 2 people–my grandfather and the late Albert Hadley. My grandfather was a well-known builder in Washington, DC. I spent weekends checking in on job sites and learning the ropes from him. Then flashforward to college, I had the privilege of spending my last two summers in college interning for the legendary Albert Hadley. It is there that I really became passionate about interior design and knew I had to pursue it as a career.
Your work is often described as polished and personal. What influences have shaped your design sensibility over time?
My design sensibility has been significantly influenced by a deep dive into the work of design legends, often through old design magazines and classic design books. However, a home is so very personal and I want my work to be a true reflection of my client, tailored to each of their unique personalities. The best compliment I receive from a client is when they say, "I love my home and it is so me!"
*Image Credit Kirsten Francis
A home is so very personal and I want my work to be a true reflection of my client, tailored to each of their unique personalities.
- Jennifer Hunter
Collected and Considered: Jennifer Hunter’s Must-Have Wisteria Pieces
What initially drew you to the Wisteria pieces you selected for this curation? I love how unique the pieces are.
You can see the pride the Wisteria team takes in sourcing and curating their inventory. It is clear they hand-pick pieces that tell a story, which really comes through in the designs.
How do you see these pieces living in a space — are there specific rooms or styles they naturally elevate?
That is the super power of Wisteria–these pieces will elevate any room or any style. It is all about the mix and it is what keeps spaces feeling dynamic! I especially love Wisteria’s finishes and patinas as they so beautifully integrate into designs, looking like they have been in the home forever.
Is there one Wisteria item you feel is a forever piece — something that belongs in every home?
I am such a fan of the Gustavian Buffet. I love the design with the reeded details and the contrast stained top. It’s also very versatile as I have used it for a storage piece that also functions as a writing desk, not to mention its size is perfect for New York City apartments!
Is there something you think is missing in today’s design landscape that makes elements of Wisteria’s style feel especially classic and timeless?
The layers. When designing a timeless space there should always be a mix of styles and carefully curated collections. Wisteria does an excellent job traveling the globe, sourcing one of a kind and heirloom quality pieces. Incorporating Wisteria into my projects instantly elevates the design, provides those layers, and makes the space feel classic and special.
Wisteria does an excellent job traveling the globe, sourcing one of a kind and heirloom quality pieces. Incorporating Wisteria into my projects instantly elevates the design.
- Jennifer Hunter on The Wisteria Difference
Philosophy in Practice: The Craft of Creating a Home
How do you strike that signature balance between traditional foundations and fresh, modern touches?
Striking a balance in design is so important and in order to mix modern touches with a traditional foundation, one must master the basics of scale and proportion. It is from here that I am able to mix in unexpected, more modern accents such as art or lighting. These little touches are what keep the project in balance, while also being dynamic.
Are there particular eras, places, or designers that consistently inspire your work?
I am most inspired by both British and Indian design and craftsmanship. I love how much of these countries' rich cultural heritages are seen through the hand, especially in woodworking and detailing. In most of my designs you will definitely see a handblocked fabric or an english casepiece. I love how seamlessly these two cultures play off each other, creating a vibrant and dynamic aesthetic.
What would you like to see more of in the design world today?
A return to classic design and preservation. The most interesting and rewarding projects are the ones where I get to geek out and put on my historic preservation hat. I love the research– studying period doors, hardware, moldings, stair details, etc. There is nothing better when someone has a hard time distinguishing if the home is 200 years old or a new build. That means I have done my job right!
*Image Credit Kirsten Francis
Striking a balance in design is so important and in order to mix modern touches with a traditional foundation, one must master the basics of scale and proportion.
- Jennifer Hunter on Balanced Design
The Art of the Mix: Thoughtful Styling and Design with Intention
You have a talent for blending timeless elements with a touch of surprise — what’s your approach to mixing old and new?
Every space should be a mix as it is what keeps a room both in balance while adding character and depth. However, you must be intentional when mixing styles and understand historical references before taking such liberties.
Is there a go-to styling tip or design “moment” you rely on to pull a room together?
Always edit. Sometimes there are just too many layers and too many pops. At the end of a project after all the layers have been added, I like to take a step back and take away one thing. It keeps the space feeling fresh.
What’s one small change homeowners can make today that brings instant polish or warmth?
Lighting can truly transform an entire space. Not only is it important to have the right temperature of light, but also the right mix of lighting. For example ambient, task, overhead, and accent. This collectively makes a space feel warm and inviting.
*Image Credit Kirsten Francis
At the end of a project after all the layers have been added, I like to take a step back and take away one thing. It keeps the space feeling fresh.
- Jennifer Hunter on Editing A Space
Behind the Curtain and On the Horizon
Can you tell us about a recent project that felt especially meaningful — whether creatively, personally, or professionally?
Building and designing my own home was particularly meaningful as it pushed my boundaries in all realms. I was able to use myself as a guinea pig to test out new ideas, materials, vendors and so much more. The end result is something I am so proud of and cannot wait to share it with the world.
Are there any emerging design ideas or materials that you’re particularly excited to explore right now?
With a husband who works in AI, I am super intrigued by its use in the design space, particularly the blending between traditional craft and digital tools. For example, designers are using AI to generate patterns, forms, or inspirations, but then executing them with traditional hand techniques. It’s like a hybrid of human intuition and machine possibility. Think: generative textile patterns, AI-assisted ceramics, or parametric furniture, but with a handmade finish.
What’s one common misstep you often see in interiors — and how would you rework it?
One of the most common mistakes I see is the improper use of scale and proportion. To avoid this misstep, start with the furniture layout and make sure that everything is not only scaled relative to the space, but to one another.
*Image Credit Kirsten Francis
Building and designing my own home was particularly meaningful as it pushed my boundaries in all realms. The end result is something I am so proud of and cannot wait to share it with the world.
- Jennifer Hunter
Hidden Gems and Dream Projects: What Inspires Jennifer Hunter Next
Where do you love to source one-of-a-kind finds — any favorite destinations or hidden gems?
Other than Wisteria, I love 1stDibs, Chairish, Etsy, local flea markets, and of course while traveling! One hidden gem/pro-tip is check out local estate sales as you are bound to find some treasures!
Is there a dream project you haven’t tackled yet — maybe a type of space, client, or location?
I would love to do a restaurant or a retail project! The idea of doing something in the more public realm really excites me, while definitely pushing me out of my comfort zone!
If you could design a space for any figure in history or pop culture, who would it be and why?
I love this question! I think it would have to be Princess Diana. She was and is to this day such a style icon, plus British interiors are my favorite!
*Image Credit Kirsten Francis
I would love to do a restaurant or a retail project! The idea of doing something in the more public realm really excites me, while definitely pushing me out of my comfort zone!
- Jennifer Hunter on Exciting Design Possibilites
Bringing Story and Soul to Every Space
From her earliest wallpaper experiments to her globally influenced, deeply personal interiors, Jennifer Hunter’s work is rooted in story, scale, and soul. Her curated Wisteria edit reflects the same thoughtful approach—celebrating craftsmanship, character, and the beauty of collected design. Whether you're refreshing a room or dreaming up something entirely new, her philosophy offers a timeless reminder: great design begins with what speaks to you.