Design Notes from the Studio
After 20 years designing homes across the US, Europe, and Asia, I returned to Colorado to focus exclusively on South Denver neighborhoods. This journal shares what I'm learning as I navigate Centennial kitchens, Littleton historic homes, and the unique challenges of designing close to home.
You'll find project stories, design philosophy, practical advice, and honest reflections on what it takes to create homes that work for real families.
The Timeless Luxury of Hutton Wilkinson & Tony Duquette
For those who appreciate the fusion of art, design, and theatrical splendor, few names resonate as profoundly as Tony Duquette. A legendary Hollywood set designer and jewelry artist, Duquette’s legacy lives on through the brilliant work of his former business partner, Hutton Wilkinson.
Hutton Wilkinson’s home, once belonging to Duquette himself, is an extraordinary testament to maximalist luxury, layered storytelling, and boundless creativity. Every room is a stage set—a masterful interplay of color, texture, and opulence that speaks to a refined collector’s eye. The home is not just a residence; it is a living, breathing piece of art.
Celebrating Original Art: The Timeless Work of Holly Farrell
At Jamie House Design, we believe that original art is an essential element in creating truly unique and inspiring interiors. Incorporating artwork into a space brings depth, emotion, and a sense of personal connection that simply can’t be replicated with mass-produced pieces. That’s why we are passionate about promoting talented artists and integrating their work into our designs.
One artist whose work we deeply admire is Holly Farrell. Farrell's paintings capture the quiet beauty of everyday objects with a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Her ability to elevate the ordinary into something extraordinary makes her pieces a perfect fit for thoughtfully designed interiors.
Designing a Big Kid Bedroom: Functional, Personal, Built to Last
When my Garden Oaks clients and I discussed the future of their home, we knew this room would eventually become their son RC’s big kid bedroom. Initially, it served as a guest room, office, and general storage space—a common scenario in many homes. However, with a new baby on the way, the "in the future" project quickly became a priority. It was time to create a functional, stylish, and timeless space that RC could grow into while also serving as a playroom.
Restoring a Houston Heights Bungalow: Thoughtful Design for Modern Living
I’m thrilled to be collaborating with a builder on the renovation of a charming bungalow in the Houston Heights—a neighborhood I hold dear. Preserving the character of these historic homes is incredibly important, especially as the area is increasingly filled with generic townhomes that lack the warmth and charm that make the Heights so unique. Whenever I have the opportunity to restore a home rather than replace it, I jump at the chance.
Designing for the Future Homeowner
Because this is a speculative build, meaning there’s no specific homeowner in mind yet, the design choices must appeal to a broad audience while maintaining a high level of style and functionality. We’re just getting started with selections, and I’m excited to take you through the transformation as it unfolds.
In Houston, architects are not required to have formal accreditation, which is why working with an interior designer is crucial to ensuring a home is both beautiful and livable. My expertise allows me to anticipate how future homeowners will use the space based on demographics and lifestyle needs, creating a home that’s as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing.
Elevating a Dining Room: A Refined Approach to Interior Decorating
At Jamie House Design, we collaborate with clients in a variety of ways—whether it’s being involved from the initial planning stages of new construction, refining a single space, or developing a long-term vision for a home. Every client’s needs are unique, and our role is to provide the expertise and flexibility required to create a beautifully designed, cohesive home.
For our Garden Oaks project, we partnered with a delightful family to refine and complete their dining room. They had already curated some meaningful pieces—a dining table, chairs, a stunning Turkish platter from their travels, and a pedestal acquired at a charity auction. While these elements provided a strong foundation, our goal was to bring cohesion, elegance, and a fresh perspective to the space.
Decluttering Before a Redesign: The First Step to a Fresh Start
Over the past few months, I’ve been on a mission to declutter—both in my personal space and for my clients. Almost obsessively! The process of letting go has been eye-opening, making me question why I held onto certain things in the first place. The truth is, before any renovation or redecoration, clearing out the old is essential to making space for the new. A well-edited home not only feels more intentional but also allows your design vision to come to life without the weight of unnecessary clutter.
Nostalgia and the Power of Original Art in Interior Design
There’s something truly special about discovering a piece of art that speaks to you on a deeper level—one that stirs emotions, sparks memories, and connects you to a specific time and place. Original art has the power to transform interiors, infusing them with personality and soul. Recently, I was reminded of this while reminiscing over a unique series of photographs that took me right back to my high school years in Texas.
How to Choose Exterior Paint Colors for a Bungalow (Or Any Older Home)
Lately, I’ve been deep in the process of selecting the perfect exterior paint color for our charming bungalow. As a designer, I naturally gravitate toward timeless neutrals—there’s something undeniably sophisticated about a soft gray home. But this house, in this neighborhood, feels like it deserves something more vibrant, something with personality. It’s a rare opportunity to embrace color in a way that feels both classic and playful.
The First LEED home in Houston | 2010
At Jamie House Design, we prioritize sustainable design that blends efficiency with luxury. Touring Houston’s first LEED H-certified home showcased innovative features like ICF walls, sealed attics, and solar integration, proving that high-end homes can be both stylish and energy-efficient. Thoughtful materials and smart systems reduce environmental impact while enhancing comfort. Explore how LEED principles shape modern, sustainable interiors.
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![Denver penthouse owner hired interior designer Jamie House Design to renovate his condo focusing on his art collection and entertaining.]()
The Collector
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![Modern white kitchen featuring a custom black hood design and bookmatched marble slabs.]()
Sharp Dressed Home
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![Modern floating vanity with marble vessel sink in a Denver spec home]()
Brass Tacks
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![Antique starburst front door hardware in Littleton CO mid-century modern remodel.]()
Starburst
AWARDS AND PRESS
Patina can't be manufactured. Here's why vintage and antique pieces solve design problems new furniture can't, and how they make even brand new construction feel like it has roots.