"Designer Jess Cooney focuses on crafting serene environments, transforming even bustling households into calm sanctuaries"

Jess Cooney: Bringing Tranquility to Historic Homes

Jess Cooney, a renowned interior designer, has made a name for herself by transforming historic homes in the Berkshires into tranquil and functional living spaces. Her designs are characterised by a unique blend of mid-century modern furniture, reclaimed materials, and handcrafted finishes that complement older homes.

Cooney's approach is centred around creating a balance between grounded and playful elements, ensuring her clients' homes are not only aesthetically pleasing but also easy to navigate, regardless of the number of people in them. A key element in her designs is ample storage, with specific solutions integrated to meet the needs of families with children and many guests.

Large weatherproof storage tents (lagerzelte) with robust materials, ample space (e.g., 36 m² or more), adjustable side walls for ventilation, and protection from weather conditions are common features in Cooney's designs. These solutions provide a practical and stylish way to store items or accommodate guests comfortably.

Cooney's clients typically are families with children in their 20s, seeking a second home for gatherings with family. Her goal is to create a tranquil place for her clients to live in, in contrast to her chaotic upbringing. She achieves this by considering every detail, from the location of the breakfast table to the position of the washing machine.

In her designs, Cooney uses tactile elements, such as reclaimed wood beams and handcrafted tiles, to give spaces a unique personality. She also incorporates timeless and soulful elements, like 100-year-old rugs, to create indestructible and timeless spaces. The materials she uses are built to withstand dramatic seasonal changes in the Berkshires.

Cooney's decorative approach combines timeless architecture with relaxed, modern furnishings. She plots a route from the pool or yard through the laundry and mudrooms to create a sense of tranquillity in the home. Her designs aim to make a home effortless to navigate, while also being able to function as a cozy apartment for two, but expand to accommodate larger gatherings.

In summary, Jess Cooney's designs are a testament to her ability to create functional, tranquil, and stylish living spaces that cater to her clients' needs. Her work in the historic homes of the Berkshires showcases her unique design philosophy and commitment to creating homes that are both deeply grounded and effortlessly functional.