Designer Spotlight: A Q+A with Hilary Matt

Hilary Matt's interiors strike that enviable balance between timeless and of-the-moment, effortlessly blending bold design choices with spaces that feel elevated, livable, and tailored to each client. We caught up with Hilary to get her takes on bold vs. minimal lighting, how fashion plays a role in interior design, and the one detail clients often overlook when lighting their homes.

Kelly: When you walk into a space for the first time, how do you evaluate its lighting needs? Do you start with natural light or go straight to fixtures?

Hilary: It’s a mix of both. If I don't need to light the space, I will do more of an artistic feature that doesn’t give off much light, but that’s rare.

Kelly: In your designs, is lighting generally a bold focal point or more quietly functional?

Hilary: I generally love a bold fixture, but there are some cases where you just need something sleek and simple.

Kelly: You started your career in fashion, something we love, since lighting, like clothing, walks that line between utility and self-expression. How has that background influenced how you approach interiors?

Hilary: Fashion plays a role in all aspects of interior design. I think there are many similarities between fashion trends and home trends, but with interior design I think it takes a little more thought because in fashion you can change an outfit but in design it's much more of an investment.

Kelly: How do you use lighting to create atmosphere in your projects?

Hilary: Lighting always sets the tone for a space. I love a moody accent in a dark room, but I also love a bright light and airy fixture to lighten up a space.

Kelly: What's something clients often overlook when it comes to lighting their homes?

Hilary: Something clients often overlook when it comes to lighting their home is not using dimmers.

Kelly: Last one - do you have a favorite Blueprint Lighting fixture?

Hilary: Counterbalance. I've used it many times and always love how it looks.