Talk Shop: Rebecca Frye Jones // Rebecca Frye Design

Photo by: Kirsten Francis

ABOUT REBECCA

Rebecca is an experienced New York City-based interior designer and the founder of Rebecca Frye Design. She translates her client's vision of home into a reality through her deep understanding of design. She received a Master of Fine Arts at the New York School of Interior Design. Before establishing her firm in 2022, Rebecca honed her skills working alongside top Manhattan designers at firms such as Mark Hampton, Sara Gilbane Interiors, and Peter Pennoyer Architects.

She is known for her sophisticated yet comfortable interiors. Her love of color, pattern, and quality pieces comes through in all her designs. Rebecca’s technical skills, attention to detail, and function of every element in a space are outstanding. In every project taken on, Rebecca is dedicated to creating beautiful, functional, and timeless interiors that work for her client's lifestyle. She lives in Manhattan with her husband and works on projects both near and far.

Describe your style in three words or less:

Warm, Thoughtful, Tailored

What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:

Growing up in Greenwich, CT with a Southern mother who has always created and maintained a beautiful home. Traveling throughout Europe. Working for top design firms in New York City.

How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:

I didn't always see design as my path, but my creative nature, eye for design, and love of people led me to work in wedding planning, hospitality, and media. Eventually, I made a career pivot and pursued my MFA from the New York School of Interior Design. I haven’t looked back since! While working in the field at top firms, people began to reach out about their projects and wanted to work with me directly so in 2022 I decided to open Rebecca Frye Design, which has been such a rewarding journey.

What I love most about my work is connecting with clients, understanding their vision, and building trust. I enjoy the early stages of projects - sourcing fabrics and materials and problem-solving spaces - just as much as the end - delivering beautiful results. Seeing clients thrilled with their redesigned homes is truly fulfilling.

Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:

I've absorbed valuable insights from each designer I've had the privilege to work under. They've exemplified a strong work ethic, high productivity, and the ability to attentively guide clients through their projects. I hold my former bosses in high esteem and deeply admire their skills.

My parents stand out as my most consistent mentors. They've been my greatest encouragers, supporting my ambitions and career vision. My father, who runs his own business, has been particularly influential in my journey as an entrepreneur, offering valuable insights from his own experiences. My mother has been a mentor in lifestyle and design, teaching me about creating welcoming environments and gracious hosting, which greatly influences my approach to interior design for my clients.

What does your home say about you:

My home is happy, comfortable, and welcoming. Nothing is too precious or perfect. It says I am a collector, I love color, and am always ready to host a gathering!

Where do you find inspiration:

So many places! Traveling, observing nature, visiting museums, architectural details, fashion, and reading. Using my imagination. Spending time pouring over my many (many) coffee table books. Meeting new people, and conversations with my clients to understand their passions and lifestyle.

Who are your style icons:

Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch, Rita Konig, David Hicks, my mother and grandmother.

What are your key ingredients for entertaining:

A carefully curated guest list, a great snack spread to kick off the party, and a simple yet delicious dinner menu. I love the great conversation that extends late into the evening — I'm a total night owl!

Do you collect anything:

Yes! Coffee table books, matchboxes, and Christmas ornaments from each trip with my husband.

Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration:

Too many interior designers to list! Of course, my love for @saragilbaneinteriors and @peterpennoyerarchitects runs deep. I am always inspired by @picturesisawandloved, @inslee, @amandajonesvaughan, @krbnyc, @verryrobin_co, @torimellott, @kateheadly - to name a few!

What design “rule” do you always follow, and which is made to be broken:

To follow: Scale! And always use the correct size rug.

To break: Metal finishes need to match in a space. I love to mix it up!

*Photo by: Mary Catherine Brownfield, courtesy of Elizabeth Cook*

What are you working on right now:

Three apartments in Manhattan, a home in Larchmont, NY, and wrapping up two projects in Atlanta, GA.

Wardrobe staples:

Jeans and a fabulous pair of earrings.

Favorite fabric/wallpaper:

So difficult to choose… I love block print fabrics and think large-scale patterned wallpapers are absolutely magical. I also love the handwoven fabrics produced by Malabar.

Best interior advice you ever received:

Edit - the end result is a much more refined space.

Best career advice you ever received:

My husband, who encouraged me to set up my own design firm.

Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:

Invest in good architecture, upholstery, antiques, and art. If it has good bones, it will last!

Save on window treatments and anything trendy.

Your greatest extravagance:

Going out to dinner and custom upholstery.

*Photo by: Heidi Geldhauser, courtesy of Elizabeth Cook*

Favorite places to shop for home:

Too many to list! I love special pieces from John Derrian, Pentreath & Hall, antique shops, and Chairish & Etsy vendors.

Most prized possession and why:

My husband - though he's not a possession… If I had to choose specific items, I'd say the ring my parents gave me when I graduated high school and my engagement ring. Both mark significant life moments, were gifts from the people I love most, and are stunningly beautiful!

Your interiors motto:

‘Buy the best and you only cry once!’ and ‘The devil is in the details.’

Your life motto:

Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting their own battle.

Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:

Be curious and ask questions. Read. Travel. Pay attention to your surroundings and how they make you feel. As you begin to become more aware, your sense of style and what you gravitate towards will bubble to the surface. You’ll begin to notice a common thread. Stay away from any social media trends.

Take Ten: My Favorite…

Food: Olives

Drink: Tanqueray gin with soda water and two lime wedges

Film: Pretty Woman

Hotel: Four Seasons (any of them!)

City: New York City

Bedding: Matouk and Biscuit Home

Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): Café au lait

Playlist: Maggie Rogers, Kayce Musgraves, and Taylor Swift

Weekend Activity: If in the city, I love a low-key weekend with my husband— a quiet morning home with coffee, exploring a museum, spending time in Central Park, or hosting friends for dinner. I love quick weekend visits to see family in Connecticut too!

Design Book: Too many good ones to pick! Right now I keep coming back to ‘The Well-Loved House’ by Ashley Whittaker and ‘The Well Adorned Home’ by Cathy Kincaid.