Meet Jillian Kelley | Interior Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jillian Kelley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jillian, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I try to approach risk in a strategic manner. I generally start by looking at the advantages and disadvantages associated with said risk. Rather than making an impulsive decision, I try to think through the ripple effect the risk might create in my future and the potential repercussions, should the result not be in my favor. However, there is always an emotional aspect to risk as well. Making risky decisions can often feel overwhelming or intimidating, but it is imperative to explore the underlying emotions driving these feelings. Sometimes the most intimidating moments hold the most potential for significant growth and development.

There have been times in my life and career that I was afraid to take certain risks simply because it would take me out of my comfort zone. Thankfully, I’ve continued to push myself and have been reaping the rewards ever since, experiencing the positive ripple effects of my choices.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m an interior designer driven by a passion for storytelling. My mission is to discover or craft the “why” behind a client’s concept and transform their vision into a tangible space filled with character and purpose. I am proud to be a part of House of Form, a dedicated interior design studio with a strong focus on hospitality. Every day, I have the privilege of channeling my passion into my work. At House of Form, we go beyond just creating “pretty” spaces; we pride ourselves on crafting the entire guest experience. We’re constantly looking to push the boundaries within the realm of hospitality, ultimately striving to create unique and memorable experiences for our local Phoenix community. Who says you have to travel to New York or LA for an extraordinary dining experience? My greatest source of pride stems from our small, tight-knit team of seven based in Arizona, now competing with design firms I’ve admired for years. I am extremely proud to be a part of a team that is a small but meaningful contributor to elevating Arizona’s hospitality landscape into a sought-after destination.

In 2015, I took a significant leap by moving to Phoenix to be a part of ASU’s interior design program. As an introvert and having only lived in one place my entire life, moving to a new city on my own was a bold choice for me. During my second year at ASU, I met Dala, my current boss. At the time, she had just launched her own business, and as soon as I learned about it, I expressed my interest in working for her. I officially began working for Dala at the beginning of my third year and have been lucky enough to work with her ever since. Juggling two jobs while going to school full time was no easy feat but knowing how much I had to look forward to after graduation kept me motivated and steadfast.

Throughout my time in school and in the professional world, I’ve learned the significance of believing in those who express confidence in you, having confidence in yourself, and trusting those around you. I owe much of my growth as a designer to having a mentor who not only believes in my capabilities but also grants me creative autonomy, room for experimentation, and the chance to learn from my mistakes. As our team continues to expand, I now find myself in a position to extend the same support and opportunities for growth to my new colleagues as they start their own journey.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would show them all The Valley has to offer! Starting in Gilbert, I’d take them around Agritopia and Downtown Gilbert. Specifically, Barn One, Peixoto Coffee, and UnderTow in Agritopia and Liberty Market, The White Rabbit, and Sotol in Downtown Gilbert. Then, I’d venture to Arcadia and take them to 36 Below, Platform 19 within Century Grand, LGO Hospitality, and Provision. Next, we’d go to the Midtown/Uptown Phoenix area for some shopping at Urban Eyecare and selfcare at Hi, Skin and Clover Life Spa in Uptown Plaza. We’d grab some drinks and a bite to eat at Valentine/1912, Lux Coffee, and Don Woods’ Say When. Lastly, we’d explore Downtown Phoenix. There is so much to see here, but the places we wouldn’t be able to skip would be The Churchill, Trophy Room, Harumi Sushi, and Champagne Lanes for a fun night to finish off the trip.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mom, dad, and sister are my biggest fans. They’ve stood by me, offering unwavering encouragement throughout my journey. I am so grateful to know that I have my family by my side.

Dala Al-Fuwaires, my boss, mentor, and friend, has been my number one supporter throughout my journey in the design world. Beyond sharing her extensive knowledge of interior design, Dala leads by example, highlighting the importance of extending grace, embracing kindness, and acknowledging my own worth. I am eternally grateful for the invaluable opportunities Dala has provided me.

Website: houseofform.com

Instagram: @houseofform_ or @Jmkelley09

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillian-kelley-7b613a117

Image Credits
Kevin Brost, Eunice Beck