Jessica Kain Barton is the Founder and Principal Designer of her Kentucky-based interior design firm; J. Kathryn Interiors. Known for her discerning eye, and incredibly warm and layered interiors, Jessica’s design sensibilities are rooted in traditional architecture, gracious living, and a reverence for the past, oftentimes drawing inspiration from the likes of Mario Buatta and Deeda Blair. Her approach to her work is deeply thoughtful, where no detail is forgotten, and where lampshades and tile layouts are given just as much importance as floor-plans and sourcing!
Since turning her lifelong dream into reality and founding her design firm in 2019, Jessica has been featured in leading publications such as House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Wall Street Journal. Her work is timeless yet fresh as illustrated by her magnificent garden lounge (covered in the most divine Luberon Toile pattern by Leta Austin Foster for Waterhouse Wallhangings) at this year’s Southeastern Showhouse & Gardens in Atlanta.
We couldn’t be more delighted to sit down with one of our favorite decorators, (whose style and gracious way of living we adore), to chat all things design, and to see what living beautifully means to her!
Where did you grow up and how has your past shaped your design aesthetic?
I grew up in Kentucky surrounded by horse farms and rolling fields. The landscape enveloped so many stunning estates and it is where I first fell in love with design and architecture. I loved the layered interiors that were grand yet comfortable because everything in the South is grounded in entertaining guests.
How would you describe your style?
I would describe myself as a traditionalist with a twist. I love a detailed space that feels warm and well collected. I love color and layers and find that I spend as much time on the small details, such as lampshades and tile layout, as I do floorplans and sourcing. I think every piece is important and you know a home has been curated perfectly when you sit from anywhere in the house and see the love and intricacy that went into everything around you.
Who are some of your style icons?
Bunny Mellon and Deeda Blair are about as chic as it gets when it comes to style. I have devoured every book on Bunny and her homes, gardens, and fascinating life! When Deeda’s book was released last year, I must have taken a million notes on her entertaining style and the way she decorated. They were my inspiration for the Southeastern Showhouse Garden Lounge I designed in Atlanta this Spring.
How did you start your company and what do you love most about what you do?
I have been designing since I was small and would steal my Mother’s House Beautiful and Southern Living magazines. I remember I needed my own individual space from my shared bedroom with my sister and created a bedroom in our closet with sheer drapery panels. I probably should have known at that point what was to follow. I started my firm shortly after my son was born. There was something so remarkable and confidence building about becoming a mother that it gave me the courage to put my dreams into action.
What I love most about being an Interior Designer is that I get to create special bespoke spaces for my clients that are as unique as each of them. There is something so rewarding about seeing their space when they realize it’s all theirs!
Where do you turn to for inspiration when you begin a new project?
Sometimes Pinterest can be very overwhelming because there is so much to sort through. I am a bit old fashioned and have a library of books by my favorite designers and architects from past and present and I tend to pull from those. If you were to look through my library, you would see little tabs in all these gorgeous books!
What would your dream project be?
I grew up in Kentucky among the Horse Farms and my absolute dream project is a home on one of those properties where you step outside to see the luscious green grass and the horses prancing about. I just got back from Upstate New York and Connecticut and so many of those properties reminded me of home as well. I love the beauty of historic homes that are surrounded by vast farmland.
Which decorators from the past do you most often turn to for inspiration?
Mario Buatta is my forever inspiration. He was not just the King of Chintz but the King of Layering. His spaces were beautiful but also incredibly comfortable and thought through. The rooms were not only surrounded with stunning features like drapery, antiques, and upholstery, but the perfect place to live because there were always thoughtful spaces to sit, relax, and drop your drink while taking in the scenery.
If you could hire any designer from the past to decorate your home, who would it be?
Mario, without question! His work has provided me with so much education throughout my career. I can only imagine how lucky his client’s felt that they were able to work with him and now forever have those memories with them.
What are some of your indispensable items when entertaining and how do you ensure a memorable dinner party?
My table linens and china! I collect unique china that vary from very traditional muted designs to colorful chinoiserie pieces. I love to mix them together with my table linens that I have collected over the years and use my silver flatware that I inherited from my Grandfather.
I also like to inject a little fun into every party whether that be hanging paper lanterns from the chandelier, customized place cards or chocolate candies spread amongst the table.
Which tabletop items do you invest in, and which ones do you save on?
Some of my favorite china has been found at antique markets or consignment stores where I was shocked at the price I paid for such beautiful pieces. I do tend to splurge on linens and candles because they create such a special layered ambiance.
If you could invite any three individuals from the past, who would they be and what would you serve for dinner?
Oh goodness, that is really tough – I have always loved learning about the friendship between Bunny Mellon and Jackie Kennedy Onassis so I would love to just be a fly on the wall as they connected about their truly unique lives. I think I would have to throw Cary Grant in there just for fun because he always seemed like he would be the life of the party and a great conversationalist. And, if anything we could just stare at how handsome he is.
My Husband is a spectacular cook and I think I would have to have him make his handmade pasta cacio e pepe dish. I feel like this group would have excellent taste (obviously) but wouldn’t be too good for some old-fashioned pasta.
What does living beautifully mean to you?
Creating spaces and environments that are equal parts beautiful and inviting. Whether it’s the interior of a home or a gathering I am hosting, I want people to be inspired by the intricate details that surround them, but also feel special and comfortable. I try to live my life day to day finding the beauty and grace in all things. The world can make you feel down and even depressed, but I have tried to spend the last couple years for my family finding the light in the dark and seeking beauty in the small things. Because when you do, you lead a life from gratitude, and that to me is the most impactful way to live beautifully from the inside out and make a difference.
How do you make every day feel special in your home?
I collect myrtle topiaries and have them strung about my home both inside and out. I am embarrassed to say how many I have in my living room alone, but I would say close to 30. They are each in unique planters and are different sizes and styles. They are a lot of work, but I love to watch them thrive and they are the perfect accessory in any room.
I also love florals and try to hit up my favorite local flower farmer each weekend at the farmer’s market. There is something about plants and fresh flowers that make any space feel special and alive!
What is your typical morning routine?
I have a four-year-old so I am usually chasing him about the house before school. While he eats breakfast, I return emails and drink my favorite green tea (Teavana Emperors Cloud and Mist). This sounds silly, but I try to spend as much time in my pajamas as I can before I have to change!
How do you like to unwind after a busy day?
I have a great partner in my Husband, and he allows me to head up to bed while he does most of the bedtime routine for our little one. I light my favorite candle and read my magazines and design books and watch my terrible reality television. Honestly, it’s a dream!
What do you love most about living in Kentucky?
They call it the “Bluegrass” for a reason. It is one of the most alluring places in the spring because of the lush greenery. If you ever get a chance to drive down Old Frankfort Pike through the horse farms during this time you will see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
While traveling, are there any objects you enjoy collecting?
Antique and vintage ceramics! I have shelves of stunning ceramics that I have collected throughout the years. Just this past week I added an iridescent Wedgewood teapot and early 19th Century scalloped chinoiserie platter. They are great for accessorizing and adding character to any project.
What is at the top of your bucket list?
I am very excited because at the top of my bucket list has been to spend a few days perusing Pimlico Road in London to source for myself and clients. My Husband and I have a trip planned this coming year and I already have 3 days blocked off to just shop, source, and gather inspiration!
What are some of the greatest lessons you learned from your parents?
I was just talking with a group of girlfriends recently about this! My Dad once told me, “There will be people that try to blow your candle out, but not to worry because even if they are to succeed temporarily it won’t make theirs any brighter in doing so.” It is also a great reminder to always treat others well and be happy for other’s growth and success!
What can we expect to see from j. kathryn interiors in the near future?
We just want to continue to take on projects that we feel connected to so we can create exceptional and inspired interiors for our clients and their families. We feel that if we hold true to this mission that we will always have noteworthy, charming, and beautiful interiors to share with others!
jessica's Favorites
Favorite Travel Destination?
Montecito, California
Favorite historic house museum?
Well, it’s not quite a museum, but it should be! I just traveled up to Falls Village, Connecticut with the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art to tour Bunny Williams and John Rosselli’s home and gardens. My mind has been racing ever since and what Bunny has done with that property over the last few decades is just utterly astounding!
Favorite interior of all time?
I am definitely more of a traditionalist when it comes to interiors however, I did get my start in California and absolutely adore nothing more than a traditional interior with the perfect juxtaposition of contemporary elements. The project that sticks with me came from Billy Cotton’s “Interior and Design Work” book that featured a 1920’s Georgian Home nestled in horse country, and it is probably my favorite project I have ever seen because it contains that perfect tension between traditional design and architecture with contemporary features.
Favorite design era?
I honestly don’t think I could pick just one. I think every era has had their pros and cons for design and because of this exact reason I always tell my clients to not lean towards anything that feels too heavy towards a trend or era. Classic is classic no matter what the era!
Favorite wallpaper pattern?
I love Jasper Grace in every color way and you can never go wrong with the classics from Colefax & Fowler like Fuchsia and Bowood. However, I am currently drooling over Orchid Vine in Lilac by Adelphi which will be making a debut in my own home this Spring.
Favorite piece of furniture in your home?
I would say the 14’ custom sofa I designed for our den. When we purchased this home we knew we wanted the sunroom to become our hang out space and the room was awkwardly long so I had this custom piece made that spanned the entire length of the room. It’s the yummiest green velvet and has the most adorable ruffle skirt. I smile every time I walk past it! It also helps that my Husband, Son, and I can all be lounging on it at the same time comfortably!
Favorite design book(s) you most often turn to for inspiration?
One of my favorite design books of the last few years has been Cathy Kincaid’s “The Well Adorned Home: Making Luxury Livable”. I believe she is one of the greatest designers of our time and I love each of the projects she features in the book. Her detail work is something to aspire to.
Favorite movie(s) every design lover should watch at least once?
I love classic movies and recently rewatched “Designing Woman” with Lauren Bacall and Gregory Peck. Both the set design and the fashion are jaw droopingly beautiful. It is also just a fun film!
Favorite home scent?
Trudon’s Cire Candle
Favorite tabletop shop?
My secret source for all things entertaining is Chefanie! I also love Well Made Home and Houses and Parties.
Favorite family tradition?
My Husband and I have given each other coordinating pajamas every Christmas Eve since we got married. Now that our son is part of the tradition it’s way cuter!
Favorite piece of advice from your mother?
“Be an independent woman”! As a mother, wife and friend I try to keep in mind that learning to be independent is the greatest gift we can give ourselves. It makes us stronger, empathetic, and more successful when we learn how to thrive on our own!
