Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Surface.
Hi Jennifer , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
From as young as age 10, I knew that interior design was my calling.However, I grew up in a small town and had no idea Interior Designers existed-even as a high school senior. When my school counselor pointed out my strong SAT scores, he suggested I pursue nursing or teaching. I enrolled in nursing school, but soon realized that while my heart was in it, my weak stomach would hold me back. To this day I praise nurses!
After starting a family and taking time off to raise my daughters, I began substitute teaching once they were enrolled in school. Eventually, I found a great fit in special education, where I loved working with my students. I designed the teachers’ lounge and decorated many of my colleagues’ and administrators homes on the side. After 13 fulfilling years in education, I decided to fully immerse myself in interior design when I became conscious of the fact I had a true passion and the ability for creating spaces that reflect people’s personalities and lifestyles. Alluding to my comment ,’’ I realized my calling as young as 10 years old ‘’, I remember asking my relatives if I could dust their homes just to move their decor around . While my friends were asking for gifts of makeup, clothing and jewelry, my lists begged for new bedding, curtains, rugs and cool things for my bedroom. I changed the furniture layout in my room as many times as it allowed. Over time, that passion evolved into a career and I sought formal. training/classes and gained experience in the field. I truly believe however you need to be born with “an eye” and vision to be successful in this profession. That cannot be taught. In addition to this, I believe that being an artist makes it easier. For me, EVERY project is a blank canvas – and people have difficulty understanding when I say, “I see every project completed when I first lay my eyes on it”. It’s like my brain immediately begins dropping things into the spaces or moves things around. That’s my gift of vision. 🤗
I thank God every day for this because I’m not good at anything else! (Driving, hair and makeup, math to name a few)
Whether clients prefer something elegant, simple,modern or whimsical etc. I can do it. I am not a one trick pony. I work with every style and produce different types of artwork ( all of which are generally oversized). I take the greatest pride in my reputation for integrity and treating my artisans with the respect they deserve and ensuring they are compensated fairly—after all, I couldn’t do this without their talent and dedication. I’ve had hundreds of clients many of which I have made lifelong friendships with. The trust they place in me means everything. It empowers me to fully unleash my creativity and innovative ideas. They believe in my vision and it makes each project not just a job but a fun, collaborative journey.
I genuinely enjoy every project no matter what size or budget each one receives the same level of love and effort. Creating art pieces for clients or commissioned by others is an added joy. I’ve had the honor of placing multiple bespoke pieces in homes and offices throughout Missouri and other states. Art can tie everything together and serve as a springboard for color .I revel in adding a personal touch to diverse spaces!
My work has been featured in over a dozen magazines and I’ve received Kansas City Best Interior Designer multiple times, which I am so grateful for and perceive it as validation of my dedication and success. I think what sets me apart is my dual expertise in both design, decorating and art. Also, I have a keen eye for scale—it’s paramount for any successful design plan. You can have the most amazing items, but if they aren’t scaled appropriately for the space, they lose their impact and can ruin the space. I believe that every little detail contributes to a cohesive and stunning environment.
I do not like trends in general! In all my work, I incorporate trends without sacrificing versatility. I recommend starting with a neutral base for paint, carpeting, and large furniture pieces. This allows for flexibility and I suggest using temporary trend items, like pillows, curtains, and rugs, to keep your space fresh and cost-effective as trends evolve.
While trends can drive the economy, I’m not a fan of following them blindly. Trends can create unnecessary pressure to constantly keep up -especially when magazines, TV shows, and platforms like Pinterest and Tik Toc suggest that we must do so. You don’t have to follow every trend, especially if it doesn’t resonate with you! I advocate for designs that have lasting timeless appeal. Keep your favorite pieces and create a style that endures. True style isn’t about fleeting trends; it’s about creating a space that reflects your individuality and works with your budget. With regard to budgets-I spend my clients money conservatively like it’s my own. I receive discounts in multiple places and I pass them onto my clients. I don’t mark up my artisans work. Everyone deserves a beautiful home they can afford.
I will forever be grateful for my innate talents and will pay it forward to the less fortunate providing things we take for granted in our homes. I will never be rich, but I will leave this earth knowing I did my best to make people happy. And I couldn’t ask for more.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I can honestly say that entering the world of Interior Design was very smooth for me. And decades I can honestly report I’ve had no struggles.
Regardless of any obstacles or challenges that you might have, if this is your dream pursue it! I can’t imagine doing anything else and I never feel like I’m working.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Interior design- anything in the home from ceilings to floors etc
Decorating
Staging homes for quick sale
Glow Ups
Children’s spaces
Kids room
College Dorms
Commercial offices
Wineries
Exterior spaces
Medallion design
Custom water feature design
Paint selection – interior and exterior
Holiday decor
Event planning
Bespoke artwork
Custom furniture
Custom Florals
Kitchen design
Bathroom design
Custom Bars
Custom Basements
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Ethical
Great listener and communicator
Innovative
Honest warm approach
Vision
Creativity
Dependability
Budget conscious
Affordable
Stress-free attitude
Integrity
Fun to work with
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ jenniferdesignandart
- Facebook: Surface to Surface Interior Design ; Jennifer Surface
- Other: Google – Surface to Surface Interior Design and Construction.
