Style Profile: Spring Architecture + Design
How do you design a home that is modern, chic and environmentally conscious? Ask Jessica Talley of Spring Architecture + Design a Westport, CT based architecture firm that does just that. Her designs can be seen throughout Fairfield County, Westchester and The Hamptons.
Designport sat down with Jessica for a quick Q&A:
DP: How do you define your business?
JT: We design beauty, sustainability and well-being through architecture.
DP: When did you develop an interest in design, and what were you doing before this?
JT: I majored in art at Amherst College and graduated Cum Laude with Honors Distinction in studio art, painting and sculpture. I showed my art in galleries while I also worked at an architecture office doing hand-painted renderings. I realized I had the skill to create a vision for people to see. I loved the idea of using my talent and vision to serve people and the environment so I went on to Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation in 2010. I won the prestigious award, given by the American Institute of Architects, the Certificate of Merit for “excellence in the study of architecture."
DP: Tell us about Spring:
JT: After my first child was born I knew I wanted to start my own company, so in 2015 I started up Spring. I now have had 3 kids and have expanded my business into three categories we nurture: projects, philanthropy and education. We love working on projects that make a meaningful impact in the lives of others, and incorporate sustainable methods and solutions in our environmentally conscious architecture.
DP: We understand you are in the middle of a dream commercial project. Tell us about it.
JT: Yes! We are designing the 10,000+ square foot Rye Art & Education center with 2 acres of land of sculpture gardens, and landscaping. It impacts and benefits all ages and multiple cities in the surrounding area, it has space to socialize, learn, and outdoor natural landscape to view art, and hang out.
DP: Do you do your own interiors?
JT: We do most of our own interiors from wall/floor finishes, to paneling and built-ins. For millwork cabinetry, kitchens, and specialty items, we design the look and team up with the GC to get the vision built.
DP: What are a few of your favorite furniture and accessory brands?
JT: I love to mix it up and not buy all from one brand or store. There are a lot out there and I tend to shop around so it is too difficult for me to name just a few. I get inspired from nature itself and traveling. I like to bring in natural elements, plants, stone, wood, and items (tile or wall treatments) from other cultures to add style, flair and uniqueness.
DP: Anything else fun you want people to know about you?
JT: I love to travel, I am a fish and love the ocean and surfing. I love going on adventures with the kids whether to travling to new places, a day in NYC or just playing games with them. I played sports my whole life, and soccer in college for both Amherst and Columbia gradschool. I still love playing and exercise, being healthy and nurturing wellness.
I hope to inspire people, and have mentored other women and moms to live their true, honest lives and to follow their passions in life and business. I married my high school sweetheart, and feel lucky to have him and our family we have created.
Want to learn from Jessica? She’s teaching an education series to the public called Springboard, which is a 6 week online group course to help people design their dream project whether a renovation or new build for 15% of the market cost to hire a designer or architect. To register, go to www.springdesigns.com/springboard The course starts on March 20. AIA credits are available for professionals, but this course is for anyone who wants a jump start on their next design project.
