Talk Shop: Jessica Kain Barton // J Kathryn Interiors
ABOUT JESSICA
Jessica Kain Barton is known for her elevated and layered spaces along with a discerning eye for detail. Based in Kentucky, her design sensibilities are rooted in traditional architecture, gracious living, and a reverence for the past, while honoring the present day. Jessica is the Principal Designer and Founder of J Kathryn Interiors, and recognizes that home is where some of the most intimate moments are shared. Her approach to her work is deeply thoughtful as she finds ultimate joy in creating spaces that will provide her clients with comfort and beauty for generations to come. Her work has been featured in House Beautiful, Elle Decor, The Wall Street Journal, and other publications. Enjoy our latest installment of our Talk Shop series with Jessica!
Describe your style in three words or less:
Classic, Intricate & Timeless.
What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:
Growing up in Kentucky and loving the beautiful homes and vast greenery that surrounded everything. It is an environment that demonstrates the art of southern living, which combines the perfectly layered home where everything is special and beautiful yet not too precious. It is also grounded in entertainment, which accounts for a big part of how I think about designing for my clients.
I started my firm in Northern California where we were surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes. Every client wanted to make sure there was a connection to the outside and that remains a goal with each project I take on. I believe in the power of connecting the outdoor world to the interior of every home, when possible.
Lastly, I probably own every design book that has ever been written. My education stemmed from coffee table books capturing the interiors that were designed by the greatest. I reference them daily. When you walk into my house and studio you will often see several open and strung about with the pages marked. Every design we create is anchored in the history of the architecture of the home as well as those designers who have come before me. There is nothing more special than creating a space completely personal to the homeowners today but feels cohesive and connected to the bones of the home’s architecture whether it be historical or newly built.
How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:
I give all the credit to the boost of confidence I got after having my son. I was so amazed that I was able to create and give life to this beautiful boy. I felt this out-of-character urge to be completely courageous and make the full-time jump into design.
Having the opportunity to design and create personal spaces that are completely special and custom for an individual or family is a privilege I will never take for granted. I constantly get goosebumps when I select something that a client loves. It’s the most magical and transcendent feeling. Our homes are where we seek solace and comfort as well as where we celebrate the joys of everyday life. This is the reason I tell anyone who will listen that interior design is anything but superficial.
Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:
Although I am self-taught, my education started very young. I would steal my Mom’s House Beautiful and Southern Living magazines from the bottom of her bookshelves and scour her Laura Ashley coffee table books. But, when I was old enough to start my own collection things really took off. I edit every year but to this day I have hundreds of my favorite magazine volumes organized by publication and year. I rotate my favorite ones out to my living room bookshelves so I can access them easily when I need a jolt of inspiration. We are in the middle of designing the study in my own home now and we are having to create special depths to hold the hundreds of designer books I have collected.
However, the designer I reference more than anyone is Mario Buatta. There was something bespoke and magical about every space he created. He was also fearless with colors and patterns and I make sure there is an element of that in anything I design.
I continue to be deeply inspired by the icons of today, such as Cathy Kincaid, Leta Austin Foster, Bunny Williams, and Rita Konig who frequently help me think about details in a richer manner.
What does your home say about you:
It is always evolving. I don’t know if I believe in a forever home. I love my home right now and even if I am here forever it will change and evolve 100x because I fall in love with a textile or antique every day. However, like my client’s homes, I want everything to be beautiful but ready to throw a get-together at any given moment. Because living in your home is what it is all about.
Where do you find inspiration:
Where don’t I find inspiration would probably be an easier question for me to answer because I find inspiration in everything! I grew up watching classic movies and I love going back to look at the set design from those time periods. Growing up on Sundays my parents would go driving to look at real estate and I love learning and listening to the details that made each home individually special. In the present day, whether I am at home in Kentucky or traveling, I take time to drive slowly and stop to appreciate the architecture and gardens where I am. To me, that is the equivalent of stopping and smelling the roses when things are feeling mundane.
Who are your style icons:
Bunny Mellon and Deeda Blair, although not designers by occupation, are two individuals whose interiors and gardens just exude style and detail in the most organic and authentic way. I love that none of their homes ever felt busy yet were filled with stunning pieces. However, on top of their awe-inspiring homes, I also love that they both were the consummate host, philanthropist and loved getting their hands in the dirt literally.
What are your key ingredients for entertaining:
Table Linens, florals, and an excess of good food and drinks. I love to entertain and hoard table linens, china, hurricanes, and vases so for me each get-together feels completely special because it is a mix of items that have never been used together.
When I am throwing a party I love to start mapping out the vibe about 3 weeks in advance. It usually starts with either a piece of my china or table linen that I have been eying that starts the color story. Tablecloths are a staple around my house and usually provide the starting palette. A little trick I love to share with friends is to purchase remnants of designer fabrics when you come across them. You usually need at least 3-4 yards but you can create the most spectacular custom tablecloths that no one else would ever have. I am also eternally grateful to Melanie from Well Made Home because when I go to my linen closet and cannot find the right napkin she has been known to expedite me the perfect complimentary pieces right in the knick of time!
Do you collect anything:
I collect a lot of antique and vintage chairs. I have this problem where if I see a distinctive chair I have to have it. You can use a beautiful chair anywhere in a project. I am embarrassed to say how many I have snagged over the years. But, the truth is I don’t plan on ever stopping!
One of my favorites is this gorgeous antique dining armchair that has these amazing contrasting wooden inlaid florals stemming from a vase that spread from the back of the chair to the legs. When I found it, it had no cushion and was hidden in a sale pile. It now sits proudly in my dining room with a custom cushion made out of my favorite Schumacher Celedon Salisbury Chintz.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration:
Two of my dearest girlfriends in design are also currently renovating their personal homes at the same time and I am forever grateful to them for helping me when I cannot make a decision or am overthinking. All of their work is beautiful but they also have been super open in sharing their personal home design process. Those ladies are the lovely @laurenmpendleton and Rhiannon of @hagemanhomesinteriors. Truly there are so many that I am constantly saving and sharing!
What design “rule” do you always follow, and which is made to be broken:
The rule I always follow is centered around the fact that floorplans are crucial in helping to understand the untapped potential of every room and how it can function for both entertaining and everyday living.
The rule made to be broken is that you cannot mix different aesthetics. I cannot repeat this enough, do not be afraid to have fun with the pieces you love. I love mixing a piece of bold contemporary art with my more traditional designs. I love the juxtaposition and tension between classic traditional design and pops of modernism.
What are you working on right now:
We have a few very exciting projects both in motion and on the horizon, but I have to say I am very excited to share the process of renovating our personal home. A 100-year-old Georgian in Louisville, Kentucky. The home is just beautiful as is but we are working with our architect Chip North to match the original architectural elements as we renovate the spaces and replace elements that do not compliment the original historical architectural millwork and staples.
Wardrobe staples:
I live in dresses every season of the year. I am slightly embarrassed to admit that I think I own every colorway of the Atlanta and Romantica Dress by Sleeper because they are so comfortable and the perfect weight. I am also an OG member of Nap Dress Nation and truly believe you can never have enough nap dresses from Hill House Home because they are great in the summer as is, with a cardigan in the spring and super chic with a turtleneck in the fall and winter.
Favorite fabric/wallpaper:
I have used Lee Jofa Athea, Jasper Grace, and Colefax and Fowler Summer by Chintz in every colorway, but my all-time favorite textile is a lesser-known pattern by Jasper called Hibiscus Morning. I have it in my personal living room and I sometimes go in there just to stare.
Best interior advice you ever received:
Don’t forget the details. Yes, big-ticket items like your range or your marble countertops matter, but don’t forget that the decorative design elements are what make you feel at home when you are done. We put as much detail into the lampshades as we do anything else. Because making sure every detail is considered is what makes each project completely unique.
Best career advice you ever received:
I am not for everyone. This was a tough one for me because I am a very sensitive individual as well as an empath. But, when it comes to my business I have had to understand that not everyone will love my design or even me and that is okay. In fact that makes the clients and projects that are even more special and the connection even stronger.
Also, know your strengths, and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. I never want to stop learning!
Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:
Invest in all your big-ticket purchases from your flooring to your cabinetry to your lighting. However, when it comes to furnishings do not be afraid to upcycle antiques, vintage, and consignment. Some of my absolute favorite items are purchases that I was able to customize for very little because I got a bargain on the original piece and was able to splurge on textiles for reupholstery. I love to mix these pieces with new custom pieces from small makers. It is also much better for the environment.
Your greatest extravagance:
Textiles and Lighting. There is nothing that I love more than a beautiful textile when it comes to design.
Favorite places to shop for home:
I have so many fond memories of strolling Sacramento Street in San Francisco and could spend hours shopping in-store and online at March SF and Decoration by Allison Caccoma. I also love KRB NYC for all things accessories!
Of course, for furnishings and antiques, I clock in a lot of time on Chairish, 1stDibs, and Liveauctioneers.
Most prized possession and why:
My sweet Duncan. I never knew you could love someone to the point where your heart burst until I saw my son for the first time. He is both the greatest challenge and accomplishment of my entire life.
Your interiors motto:
Every design should be grounded in architecture, gracious living, and a reverence for the past while honoring the present day.
Your life motto:
Take a minute to focus on the beauty. Life and this world can be very overwhelming. Sometimes it can feel very dark. But, even if for a second take a minute to look at the flowers blooming, the sound of your toddler giggling in the room next door, and the people in your lives that bring you joy.
Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:
Be open-minded because your interior style will evolve over time. However, don’t forget to be true to yourself. There is a lot of fast fashion design today and it won’t last the test of time but if you take the time to make your space a reflection of you and focus on the details.
Take Ten: My Favorite…
Food: My Husband’s Roasted Red Pepper Pasta and Baked Asparagus
Drink: Topo Chico with Cucumber any day and any time. But, a delicious glass or two of Nebbiolo is one of my favorite treats.
Film: The Awful Truth with Cary Grant and Irene Dunn
Hotel: Old Edwards Inn in Highlands, North Carolina - We went there over ten years ago for our friend’s wedding and have returned ever since. It’s the most charming hotel right in the heart of the Highlands.
City: Montecito, California - The perfect small and charming town right on the ocean. However, if you are ever in Kentucky. I would highly recommend my hometown of Midway. It’s about as charming as it gets.
Bedding: I love peacock alley sheets for every day but you cannot go wrong with treating yourself with a specialty duvet and shams from D Porthault.
Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): Green Tea - I am addicted to Teavana’s Emperor’s Clouds and Mist which you can find at Starbucks. I drink as is. But, I love to treat myself to some Jasmine Tea when there is a place with quality hand-rolled pearls.
Playlist: Talking Heads all day every day - and sometimes on repeat because it is the greatest song of all time…Naive Melody.
Weekend Activity: Tea and Breakfast Biscuit from Wiltshire Bakery here in Louisville, Farmer’s Market Flower Run, Diving into my home magazines, Toddler Cuddles, and an Afternoon Nap. It doesn’t get better than that.
Design Book: Ah, don’t make me pick…Classic, Mario Buatta: Fifty Years of American Interior Decoration by Mario Buatta and Emily Evans Eerdmans…Architecture, A Place to Call Home: Tradition, Style, and Memory in the New American House by Gil Schafer…New Classic, The Well Adorned Home: Making Luxury Livable by Cathy Kincaid.