Chicago interior-designer Jasmin Reese embraces contrast and dynamism. Her work integrates antique furniture with modern flourishes – bold colors, and color harmonies which are bolder still.
Jasmin sat down with Brandon Kosters of Eastern Accents to discuss her own distinct brand of moderated maximalism.
Do you embrace the term maximalism as a descriptor of your interior design work? Why or why not?
Yes, absolutely. Basically, maximalism with a very edited eye. Bold color, bold emotion, but it’s still edited, and it’s not noisy.
Your work is compelling because you play with contrasting elements. Whimsical Vs. Earnest. Feminine Vs. Masculine. High-Brow Vs. Low-Brow.
Yes, it goes back to emotion. There could be maybe some curves in a sofa but a softer palette, but then the light fixtures have really dynamic angles.
There is real range in your portfolio, which I believe must speak to your adaptability and willingness to meet the client’s needs.
Yes. We always start with a style session. The work really is about the client. Taking a deep dive, and helping the client find their true selves, and what they want to be surrounded in. I always try to push people 10% past a comfort zone, and that’s what drives the project. “What can we do that will give the client pure delight in their everyday life?”
Do you have a favorite color, or color palette?
I love dual tones, and my favorite color is fuchsia.
What are you working on currently?
We have a repeat client who is in Palm Springs, and we are working on their house right now. It's very dreamy and kind of channeling a painterly aesthetic in the desert.
Can you elaborate on the “Comic Book” you use to highlight your services?
I just wanted a light-hearted way of showing how we roll out services. Every designer has a different approach, and I wanted it to be clear, and I have clients who are artsy and I give them the shortcut version to go along with the full version. It’s a fun way to get to know the team. It also helps separate out people who don’t like it – perhaps they wouldn’t be a good fit for us.
Where would you like to see yourself in five years?
As far as interior design, I would love to see us working in maybe a hip and beautiful boutique hotel. Doesn't matter where – US, England. Anywhere. It would be really fun to do a hotel lobby, and maybe a petite restaurant. Not a lot of people weighing in on decisions, but maybe a boutique style project.
Thank you to Jasmin Reese for sharing her creative vision, design philosophy, and her bold approach to client-centered maximalism. Find more of Jasmin Reese's work on her Instagram, Facebook, and website.
