New York designer Jenny Norris, of Jenny J. Norris Interiors, is a firm believer that clients should love everything in their home. (Photo: Jenny J Norris)
In celebration of Pride Month, Luxe taps design pros to discuss empowerment, inspiration and the importance of diversity.
Jenny Norris is devoted to living as authentically as possible, as a designer, wife and new mom, and she hopes her thoughtful interiors help clients do the same. Eager to see more queer women represented in the design industry, the New York-based pro offers these fundamental words of wisdom to industry freshmen finding their footing: Just go for it. Here, she shares influences, inspiration and insights on enjoying the spaces we build.
I feel pride in design when…
I see the spaces I create inhabited. Clients living comfortably, functionally, and having the occasional cocktail party at home is always lovely to see.
Recent favorite project.
I recently worked on a condo in a Neoclassical building on Park Avenue South. While it was important to let the high ceilings and extra large windows speak, weaving in luxurious accents felt necessary for the client’s primary bedroom. We were able to do this by incorporating very subtle textures—silk grasscloth on the walls, an ivory silk rug and custom alabaster sconces.
Go-to source for inspiration.
Traveling is the ultimate source of inspiration to me. The unfamiliar always drives me to notice more. If I’m in town, a trip to the flower district early in the morning is energizing. Also my go-to neighborhood favorite Patrick Parish Gallery always inspires.
Design icons that have influenced your style.
George Nelson, Charles and Ray Eames, Isamu Noguchi and Jean Prouvé.
How can we express ourselves more authentically at home?
I always tell clients upon working together that you should love everything in your home. When we surround ourselves with beauty, and of course that is subjective, that’s authentic expression to me.
Quiet moments of color subtly highlight the high ceilings and natural light in a traditional home in Southampton, New York. The dining table features De La Espada dining chairs upholstered in blue. (Photo: Jenny J Norris)
Norris creates a serene scene in a neutral bedroom featuring a De La Espada bed, Clayton Gray Home table and Allied Maker sconce. (Photo: Jenny J Norris)
