Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Horstman.
Hi Jennifer, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
As an art student at the University of Minnesota, I took a job at an insurance company in the early 2000s to make ends meet—but creativity was always my calling. I found myself continually drawn to interior design, and at 27, I took a leap of faith: I quit my job, picked up three part-time roles, and returned to school full-time to earn a second Bachelor’s degree—this time in Interior Design.
While still in school, I landed an internship that connected me with a local designer in need of an assistant. After graduation, I had the privilege of working with her for five years—gaining a real-world education in business operations and all the things you don’t learn in school. Over the next decade, I worked at three additional firms, learning something new at each stop.
Nine years ago, I launched my own firm—focused on luxury new construction and remodels, with an emphasis on detailed documentation, transparency, and prompt service. We’ve been fortunate to collaborate with amazing builders, contractors, subtrades, and vendors, and value the lasting relationships we’ve built along the way.
Recently, we opened our own office in a retail complex—creating a welcoming space for client meetings, design presentations, and line shows. It’s been a joy to see our vision come to life and grow alongside our community.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Never! But that’s part of what makes the journey so rewarding.
Being an entrepreneur means constantly wearing many hats as your business grows and evolves. Every challenge teaches you something new, and every milestone reminds you of how far you’ve come—only to set the next goal and keep moving forward.
Financial stability can be tough early on, and economic downturns hit hard—especially in an industry often seen as a luxury. But we’ve learned that strong relationships with our partners and a clear, consistent value in every project ensure our place at the table.
I wouldn’t want this job without the struggles—they’ve shaped the business and the person I’ve become. It’s all part of this beautiful, ever-evolving journey.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Lenox House Design is a full-service interior design firm specializing in bespoke new construction homes and luxury remodels. We collaborate with clients from the earliest design conception meetings with the architect, through the entire construction process alongside the builder and trades, and all the way to the final layer of furnishings, art, rugs, and window treatments. We believe that staying involved in every phase ensures each project is executed just as the team envisioned.
As a team, we’re a little quirky—in the best way. We love when our designs reflect not only our clients, but a little bit of us too. That comes through in the unexpected moments: a bold color, a daring wallpaper, an unusual piece of hardware, or the tile you weren’t sure about… but now can’t live without. We believe in pushing the envelope just enough to make each space feel one-of-a-kind and deeply personal.
What truly sets us apart is our deep knowledge of new construction. We’re not afraid to get dirty on the jobsite, working directly with craftsmen to fine-tune the details that bring our designs to life.
I’m incredibly proud of our growth, our expertise, and—most of all—the amazing community of happy homeowners we’ve had the honor to serve.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’m incredibly grateful to the people who have made this journey possible.
To my assistant, Sereena—thank you for keeping the lights on and keeping me sane. Your support is invaluable.
To my family—thank you for enduring the long hours and late nights as this business grew. I work this hard for you, and because of you.
A special thank you to Todd Simning at Ador Bespoke Homes. Your support from the very beginning has meant the world. Our working relationship—rooted in transparency, generosity, and a shared commitment to excellence—has helped bring countless client dreams to life.
I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to collaborate with a wide range of talented architects, builders, remodelers, vendors, showroom teams, installers, and subtrades. Many of you have stood by me for nearly a decade, and your dedication has been instrumental in growing this business.
Every project is a team effort. I may bring the vision—but it’s the talent, care, and hard work of so many others that make that vision real, creating spaces where families can truly live and thrive.
Thank you. I wouldn’t be here without you.
Pricing:
- All of our pricing is custom per project
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lenoxhousedesign.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lenoxhousedesign/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lenoxhousedesign/
