When Jennifer Ramsey opened her full-service residential interior design studio, which is based in El Dorado Hills, she had a mission. “After many years working in the industry, I saw a real need for homeowners to have guidance earlier in the process, not just at the decorating stage,” she says.
Together with her project coordinator, Jenn, a former client turned colleague, Ramsey collaborates with contractors, architects, and tradespeople to create beautiful, functional interiors for clients. “We specialize in full-service remodels, new builds, and furnishings, with an emphasis on pre-construction planning, material selection, and cohesive, livable design,” she says.
We caught up with her to learn more.
What’s the difference between the levels of professional design service—full-service to just a minor refresh?
Full-service design is comprehensive. It includes space planning, architectural decisions, hard materials, lighting, cabinetry, furnishings, and project coordination from start to finish. We also offer furnishings only, if construction is not needed. Lastly, we do offer a smaller hourly package, which can be used for help on projects that need just a little guidance and not as much oversight.
What is your process for understanding what a homeowner is seeking with a design project?
We start with a discovery conversation focused on how the home functions today and how they want it to feel and work in the future. I ask a lot of questions about daily routines, pain points, long-term goals, and lifestyle. From there, we translate those insights into a clear design direction, aligning aesthetics, function, and budget before moving into detailed planning.
Speaking of function and aesthetics—how does one influence the other?
Good design always starts with function. A space can look beautiful, but if it doesn’t support how you actually live day to day, it won’t feel right for long. Aesthetic choices should grow out of real life, not fight against it. The most successful designs strike a thoughtful balance between beauty and livability, so the space feels both elevated and comfortable to live in.
What are the most common rooms you help homeowners update and how?
Kitchens and primary bathrooms are by far the most common, followed closely by main living spaces. In our region, we often replace dated finishes, rework inefficient layouts, upgrade lighting, and modernize finishes while keeping things warm and timeless. Living rooms frequently need better furniture scale, improved seating layouts, and layered lighting rather than just new decor.
What are some of the hottest trends you’re seeing in interior design right now, especially in El Dorado Hills?
We’re seeing a strong move toward warmer, nature-inspired palettes, layered textures, and materials that feel grounded and authentic. Think softer whites, warm woods, browns, olive greens, muted blues, and stone with character. Homeowners are also prioritizing function, storage, and spaces that feel intentional rather than overly styled.
What are some quick upgrades that could improve a home’s appearance quicker than anything else?
Paint is always the fastest transformation. Updating lighting fixtures, swapping dated hardware, adding an area rug, or replacing builder-grade mirrors can completely change a space without major construction.
What furniture pieces do you recommend a homeowner deeply invest in, and where does it make sense to spend less?
Sofas, dining tables, and beds are worth investing in because they’re used daily and anchor the room. Quality construction, comfort, and scale matter most in these pieces. Accent chairs, side tables, decor, and trend-driven pieces are great places to save. These items are easier to swap out over time.
What are some timeless design elements that never go out of style?
Neutral foundations, natural materials, classic proportions, and quality craftsmanship never go out of style. A well-designed layout will always outlast trends.
Anything too trend-limited to bother with?
Highly specific trends that dominate a space tend to age quickly. It’s better to layer trends through paint, accessories, or textiles rather than permanent finishes.
What are some common design mistakes?
Not planning ahead, choosing finishes in isolation, ignoring scale, and prioritizing trends over function are the most common issues I see.
Any advice for a homeowner on a very limited budget?
Focus on one space and do it well. Invest where it counts, simplify the scope, and avoid rushing decisions that could lead to costly mistakes later.
How can a professional help, and what should a homeowner look for when hiring a pro?
A professional designer helps homeowners avoid expensive missteps, clarify priorities, and create a cohesive plan. When hiring a designer, look for someone whose process, communication style, and portfolio align with how you want to live in your home.
For the homeowner who wants to do a quick weekend refresh on their own, any advice to share?
Rearrange furniture for better flow, add new throw pillows or a rug, update lamps, and bring in greenery. Locally, homeowners can shop at H3 Barn, The Feathered Nest, or Antique Trove.
Anything else to add?
Great design isn’t about perfection or trends. It’s about creating a home that feels intentional, comfortable, and aligned with how you live. When the process is thoughtful, the results last.
jenniferramseyinteriors.com
The most successful designs strike a thoughtful balance between beauty and livability, so the space feels both elevated and comfortable to live in.
Highly specific trends that dominate a space tend to age quickly. It’s better to layer trends through paint, accessories, or textiles rather than permanent finishes.