With an eye for sophisticated luxury—and a particular fondness for creating spectacular bar spaces—Denver-based interior designer Jackie Johnson has transformed properties across the city since she founded her eponymous design firm in 2018. Currently, she’s designing several whole-home renos and spec homes throughout South Denver and in Edwards, Colorado, plus her own home refresh in Cherry Hills Village. Here, Jackie reveals where she finds inspiration, an unusual client request she’s excited about, and the one design element that’s never up for debate.
When did you become interested in design?
When I was young, I loved going to home stores with my mom. When I went to college, she and I went to an antique furniture store to find pieces for my dorm room. That’s when I fell in love with design.
Describe your aesthetic.
Sophisticated with clean lines that lends itself to functionality of the home. Nothing overly designed. Timeless and a space to be lived in.
Where do you find inspiration?
My greatest inspiration comes from travel. I love going to New York City and staying in hotels like Fouquet’s or the Ritz-Carlton NoMad, where I feel so immersed in beautiful design. I also love bar designs, so I always drag my husband around to different bars and hotels on vacation to see what’s up-and-coming. We recently went to Rome, and I felt so inspired by the bar at the Six Senses and the Orient Express La Minerva.
When designing, what’s a non-negotiable for you?
Beautiful lighting. I want to make a statement with lights. I feel that this element can transform the space from being special to spectacular.
Share an interior design challenge you recently faced.
My own home is older and has needed a lot of love. In one room, a previous owner purchased and installed a very heavy wood panel detail from a 1700s English church. It wasn’t the look I was going for, but I felt a strong connection to it. A specialty company came in to stain it darker and turn the room into a martini lounge. Now it feels like a luxurious pub in England. I also kept the doors in the same style and used them as the base for a custom dining table.
What about a unique client request?
One client requested an in-home bar to look like Delilah’s at the Wynn Las Vegas. I was so thrilled! We put together a stunning design and can’t wait to see it come to life.
Who’s your interior design crush?
My favorite follows on Instagram right now are Michelle Gerson, Hilary Matt, and Thomas Hayes.
Why do you love working in Colorado?
Because we can tap into the natural surroundings so well and create beautiful indoor-outdoor spaces.