Jessica Schuster: Shaping Interiors with Soul and Substance
people • DESIGNERS
Based in SoHo, New York, Jessica Schuster Design is a boutique interior design studio renowned for crafting spaces that balance innovation with enduring elegance. Founded in 2013 by Jessica Schuster, the firm specialises in residential and hospitality projects across the United States, including New York City, the Hamptons, Palm Beach, Boston, and Miami. Drawing inspiration from nature, historical references, and a love for colour and form, her designs seamlessly blend contemporary elements with timeless appeal, resulting in soulful interior design that resonates across diverse settings. In this exclusive interview, we dive into Jessica’s creative world, exploring her inspirations, philosophies, and passions shaping her singular interior design approach.
Words: designeers
MAY 2025
WEBSITE: jessicaschuster.com
INSTAGRAM: @jessieschuster
DESIGNEERS
Your journey into interior design seems both organic and influenced by your upbringing. Can you share more about how your family's involvement in design shaped your career path?
Jessica Schuster
My upbringing was immersed in creativity and aesthetics; my mother was deeply passionate about fashion and interiors, and our home was always evolving with beautiful, curated pieces. I think that exposure to thoughtful design from such a young age instilled in me an innate appreciation for soulful interior design—spaces that tell a story and evoke a genuine sense of place.
DESIGNEERS
Your approach blends fresh and new elements with timeless design. How do you decide which trends to incorporate and which to avoid?
Jessica Schuster
I always say design should feel effortless and personal, not trend-driven. I’m inspired by history, art, architecture, and travel, so while I keep an eye on what’s current, I’m very selective. If a trend doesn't align with a project’s essence or risks feeling dated too quickly, I won’t include it. Instead, I look for ways to layer in texture, vintage elements, and custom interior touches that give each space a unique narrative.
Ocean Terrace
Ocean Terrace
DESIGNEERS
Can you walk us through your creative process when starting a new project? How do you tailor your approach to each client's unique needs?
Jessica Schuster
Each project begins with a deep dive into who the client is, their lifestyle, inspirations, and even their fashion sense. I want the space to feel like an extension of them, not just a reflection of my aesthetic. From there, I create mood boards, source vintage finds, and collaborate with artisans to design custom interior features tailored to each client’s vision. It’s a highly collaborative and intuitive process that evolves organically, but always with a strong narrative thread. This process is especially important in residential interiors, where personal style and everyday functionality must meet seamlessly.
DESIGNEERS
With projects spanning various locations like New York City, the Hamptons, Palm Beach, Boston, and Miami, how do regional styles influence your designs?
Jessica Schuster
Each location has its own pulse, and I love tapping into that. A project in Palm Beach might lean more colourful and playful, while something in New York City could feel more tailored and architectural. That said, my signature always includes a mix of old and new, bold moments, and layers of texture, no matter the location.
The Chelsea condo
The Chelsea condo
The Chelsea condo
“The most memorable spaces are the ones that tell a story, not just the ones that follow the rules.”
Jessica Schuster
DESIGNEERS
Given your extensive portfolio, which project holds a special place in your heart, and why?
Jessica Schuster
The Chelsea condo is one that really stands out to me. It was a dream collaboration; the client had incredible taste and was open to pushing creative boundaries. We played with bold contrasts, layered in vintage elements, and created custom pieces that brought a real sense of personality to the space. It perfectly captured that balance I always strive for: fresh, expressive, and timeless. It’s the kind of project that reminds me why I love what I do.
DESIGNEERS
Top three favourite suppliers?
Jessica Schuster
Beauvais, Rose Tarlow, and Ralph Pucci
DESIGNEERS
Which is your favourite design hotel? What stands out about it?
Jessica Schuster
Amangiri comes to mind. The way it uses architecture as both art and a dialogue with the landscape is incredible. I’m especially drawn to how it frames the natural surroundings—there’s quiet, understated luxury that makes the entire experience feel both peaceful and deeply inspiring.
Verona
Verona
DESIGNEERS
When you’re not designing, what are some of your other passions or activities that allow you to tap into your creativity?
Jessica Schuster
I love to travel, there’s nothing like exploring new places to refresh your perspective. I also collect vintage fashion and love going to flea markets, art shows, and museums. Cooking and hosting dinner parties is another creative outlet; I love setting a beautiful table and curating a vibe for the night.
DESIGNEERS
Where do you see Jessica Schuster Design in the next five years? Are there new areas or types of projects you're interested in exploring?
Jessica Schuster
I’d love to expand more into hospitality and retail, designing spaces that people experience in a shared, immersive way. We’re also exploring product design, which is a natural next step. At the heart of it all, I want to continue creating soulful spaces that inspire and resonate deeply with the people who inhabit them.
DESIGNEERS
What advice would you give to aspiring interior designers looking to make their mark in the industry?
Jessica Schuster
Stay curious, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to take risks. The most memorable spaces are the ones that tell a story, not just the ones that follow the rules. And never underestimate the power of hard work, a strong point of view, and building meaningful relationships in the industry.
Verona
image Credits: Ryan Duffin, Douglas Friedman, William Jess Laird
Styling: Brittany Albet
