Hilary Matt, the founder of her namesake firm, Hilary Matt Interiors, wasn’t always in the interior design industry. She studied business and apparel merchandising, spent a year at a woman’s contemporary showroom in New York City, and then decided to make a change. “I had always been interested in interior design, so I took a leap of faith and accepted a job as an assistant to an interior designer,” Matt shares. She worked with the designer for eight years while also taking classes to learn computer programs, scaling, and other necessary skills. Today, she spearheads her own team with projects in the City, the Hamptons, and beyond. Read on for a conversation with the designer.
In your opinion, how do the fashion and interior design worlds relate?
The fashion and interior design worlds go hand in hand. Many trends in fashion are mirrored in design. However, fashion allows for more daring choices because you can easily change an outfit. With design, you invest more time, money, and energy into a space, so it needs to be something you’ll love for more than just a day. Something that’s timeless or stands the test of time is important.
What advice would you give to those looking to pivot careers?
My advice is to always take a chance. You never know unless you try. I was nervous about switching career paths, but I’m so happy I did. I would never have discovered my future if I hadn’t taken that chance. It’s important to embrace discomfort and make changes, knowing you can always go back if it doesn’t work out.
How would you describe your aesthetic, and how do you achieve that look?
I would say that my aesthetic is comfortable and modern. I design very much for my clients and what their needs and wants are, versus my own personal style. I think there is a common theme that is seen throughout all of my projects, but I do think they are all different, and they all relate specifically to the client they’re for.
What role does comfort play in your designs?
Comfort is something that is so important to me. I pride myself on designing rooms that are meant to be used and lived in. I never like to design a room that no one steps foot in or that people are afraid to use. I want every piece of furniture to be comfortable and durable, so you don’t have to worry about kids, dogs, or entertaining.
Favorite room to design?
My favorite rooms to design are spaces for kids because I can have the most fun with them. I love creating whimsical, fun spaces—whether it’s a kids bedroom or playroom. I especially love designing girls’ rooms. Since I have two boys, I enjoy incorporating girly and feminine elements.
What is your opinion on using color?
Color is subject to my client. I personally love color, even though I often work with neutrals. I think a little bit of color goes a long way. If someone wants to incorporate color but is hesitant to commit to an entire room, adding it through art, throw pillows, or accessories is a great way to add a touch without overwhelming the space.
Do you have a favorite project that you have worked on?
One of my favorite projects was my own house in the Hamptons. It was the first house my husband and I purchased together. We worked hard to make it a perfect place for our family and a showroom for Hilary Matt Interiors. I wanted to showcase my favorite artists and makers, and it was really fun to put together.
Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration everywhere. NYC is a significant source of inspiration. I love walking the streets and observing the people and landscape, and popping into stores. New York is so alive, and I incorporate that energy into my designs. I also love looking through magazines from around the world, especially publications from Europe and Australia. I tear out pages and add them to my inspiration board. Pinterest is also great for collecting ideas and discovering new things.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow?
I love following fellow designers, friends, and people I don’t know. Seeing what others are doing inspires me. I also enjoy following fashion accounts, especially those outside the typical influencer circle. I find inspiration from Maja Weyhe (@majawyh), who posts amazing outfits and, sometimes, art. I also love following Julia Kalmanovich (@kalmanovich), who posts inspiring outfits and content. I follow my favorite showrooms to see snippets of their new pieces, furniture, and artists. Some of my favorites are the Future Perfect (@thefutureperfect), the Invisible Collection (@theinvisiblecollection), and Garde Shop (@gardeshop).
Describe your ideal NYC day.
If it’s a workday, my ideal day would be to come into my office, close the door, and get all my work done without interruption, which never happens. Ha! If it’s not a workday, I’d wake up, go to a diner for breakfast with my kids and husband, head to Central Park to walk around and let them play, stroll down Madison Avenue to visit my favorite shops, have lunch, and end the day with dinner with my husband while the babysitter puts the kids to sleep. A day spent in NYC rejuvenates and inspires me, so it’s important for me to have those days where I can soak it all in. It helps me to design and be inspired by the city.