Originally published June 22, 2022
Jessica Stephans, lead designer at Christian Siriano’s Siriano Interiors.
What attracted you to the Interior Design program at Parsons?
I wanted to complete my interior design program at Parsons because it’s a reputable school. I had a career in finance since graduating from college and, while I was proud of my resume, I knew I needed strong credentials from a design school to make the career shift. When I researched the program and the available classes, I knew it would be the right fit.
Why do you think it’s well-suited for someone new to the interior design industry?
This program sets the foundation for those looking to get into interior design—especially if you’re coming from a different industry and didn’t go to design school. While everyone in the program has an eye for design, the foundational classes truly set you up for success.
Inn of Chagrin Falls, one of Jessica’s projects for Siriano Interiors. Photos by Tim Lenz.
What were some of your most memorable lessons or courses?
My Residential Interior Design class was most memorable because of the wonderful professor who is an interior designer. She shared real-life stories of running a business that helped me understand what it feels like to be in this field.
How did the skills you learned help you start your new career?
Learning the fundamentals of interior design helped me more than I expected. Concepts such as scale and color theory opened my eyes to design in a new way. Coming from finance, where creativity wasn’t a focus, I was amazed at how much my mind expanded during the program. On a more technical level, AutoCAD proved essential for working in a design firm.
Design by Jessica Stephans for Siriano Interiors.
When did you start at Siriano Interiors?
I started a few months after completing my certificate and I’m enjoying it so much. I love having a creative career and I’ve never looked back. Both my business background and my design education have helped me in my current role as lead designer.
How did you land your first role in design?
While still working full-time in finance, I completed a mini-internship with a local designer where I helped design a pool house and patio. Before finishing the program, I wrote to design firms in my area and connected with Martha Vicas, a designer who had made a similar career change. She saw my ambition and hired me. Making this shift wasn’t easy, but it was absolutely worth it.
Jessica Stephans’ interior design work for Siriano Interiors. Photos by Tim Lenz.
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