Hilary Matt Interiors is a residential design firm started and located in New York City with projects spanning across the country, including in the Hamptons and East End.
Hilary, principal and founder, is known for a bold aesthetic that is comfortable and livable. She always keeps her clients at the forefront so they can express themselves as individuals through their spaces. After starting out in the fashion industry, Hilary felt a call to interior design where she has been bringing her unique approach and style to every space as the brand continues to grow.
Hilary spoke more about her background, how each HMI project differs from one another, and why the Hamptons is such a special place to her. She also shared her top 5 interior design tips as inspiration.
Can you discuss your background and how you got started with interior design?
HM: I studied business and apparel merchandising. After graduating, my first job was at a women’s contemporary showroom in NYC. I had always loved fashion and wanted to be in the industry. After a year, I realized it wasn’t quite what I expected. I had always been interested in interior design, so I took a leap of faith and accepted a job as an assistant to an interior designer. I was initially nervous to leave fashion, but I figured I could always return. I ended up loving it and worked with her for eight years, learning the ins and outs of the business. I also took classes on weekends and evenings to learn computer programs, scaling, and other essential skills. After leaving that position and having my first son, I started my own company, which has snowballed into what we are today.
What is the Hilary Matt Interiors brand all about?
HM: The Hilary Matt Interiors brand is all about comfortable, timeless living.
How do each of your projects differ from one another?
HM: I design very much for my clients and what their needs and wants are versus my own personal style. I think there is a common theme that is seen throughout all of my projects, but I do think they are all different and they all relate specifically to the client that they’re for. Comfort is something that is so important to me. I pride myself on designing rooms that are meant to be used and lived in. I never like to design a room that no one steps foot in or that people are afraid to use. I want every piece of furniture to be comfortable and durable, so you don’t have to worry about kids, dogs, or entertaining.
What are your favorite design elements?
HM: I love wallpaper. It transforms a space. I love lighting; there are so many interesting and different lights that act as art in a space.
What led you to start your interior design business and was it always your goal?
HM: A few years into the fashion industry, I was introduced to interior design and saw the power I could have of blending my experience and deeply rooted interest in fashion into this world. While my technical training was in fashion design, the similarities and my can-do attitude allowed me to transition over and pick up the nuances of the industry at a fast pace. I began doing rooms here and there for friends, and one project spiraled into another, and my firm was born.
What’s your favorite pastime in the Hamptons?
HM: My favorite pastime in the Hamptons is riding bikes to the beach with my family.
What led you to the East End?
HM: I have been going out to the Hamptons for years and always dreamed of a place of my own. I find the Hamptons to be so special, and we love to be there and spend time there as a family.
What has been your greatest accomplishment to-date?
HM: Building HMI into what it is now.
Can you share your top 5 interior design tips with our readers?
Hilary Matt’s 5 design tips:
1. Make sure a space is comfortable.
2. Don’t pick items that you’ll grow sick of quickly.
3. A powder room is a fun place to be bold and wild.
4. Use outdoor and performance fabrics inside so you don’t worry about things getting ruined and make a space livable.
5. Don’t ask for too many opinions.
For more information about Hilary Matt Interiors, click here.
