At The Interior Design Institute (IDI), we celebrate the diverse paths our graduates take and the unique perspectives they bring to the world of design. Meet Hilary Jane, a Montreal-based artist, tattooist, and the creative mind behind the home décor brand Hilary Jane Home. With over 16 years of artistic experience, Hilary’s journey into interior design is a testament to her passion for creativity and resilience in pursuing her dreams.
Image Source: Graduated #IDIstudent Hilary Jane from @hilaryjanehome
I’m Hilary Jane, a Montreal-based artist and tattooist with over 16 years of experience. I’m also the founder and owner of my home decor brand, Hilary Jane Home.
To draw and do art all the time.
Throughout my career as a tattoo artist, I’ve always had a passion for architecture, interior design, and product design, though I put those interests on the back burner. As a generalist, I often feel restless, and over time, I started feeling burnt out and limited by the medium I was focusing on. This burnout pushed me to explore interior design, leading to the creation of my brand. It felt like a natural progression, and the timing was right. Enrolling in an IDI course seemed like the perfect opportunity to gain valuable resources, especially if I decided to pursue interior design full-time.
Image Source: Mood Boards by Graduated #IDIstudent Hilary Jane from @hilaryjanehome
I love starting my day by grabbing a coffee, cleansing my desk with some incense, lighting a candle, and setting the mood with some lofi music in my headphones before diving into work. A big part of my process involves designing mood boards and renders for my projects to showcase my products and wallpaper designs. My focus is on managing my brand and creating and designing products, wallpapers, and illustrations for prints.
My art style is called 'Organic Psychedelia,' which is deeply spiritually oriented and draws inspiration from the ‘60s and '70s. While my work is rooted in these vintage influences, especially with the florals I create, I also think about how my designs fit within modern spaces. They juxtapose beautifully with styles like mid-century modern, modernism, and eclectic maximalism, adding a unique contrast to any room.
I've always been known for my unique color palettes in the tattoo world, which are a bit unconventional. I often use shades like avocado greens, mustard yellows, rust, corals, and plenty of blacks. Naturally, I’m drawn to spaces that feature wood paneling, warm tones, and velvets in these colors. I also find inspiration in fashion and photography, particularly in the way textures and contrasting colors create striking juxtapositions and the way stories play out.
Image Source: Project by Graduated #IDIstudent Hilary Jane from @hilaryjanehome
I try not to, but occasionally, I can be drawn to things right before they take off. I find it fascinating—it's like our collective consciousness synchronizes, and that’s what snowballs trends. But I also like weird niche stuff like the Biba movement and Art Deco revival mixed in with Hollywood Regency.
A play between masculine and feminine energies, dualism and synergy between colour and textures, and maximalist patterns against minimalist elements.
A house. In this economy?
My primary goal is to build my company into something that’s both interesting and inspiring to others, while also enabling me to help the people around me. I also dream of designing my own space one day.
I’m always focused on finding ways to create sustainable products before opting for more conventional choices. Most of the fabrics I use for my brand are made from organic hemp, and everything is produced locally. I also encourage sourcing second-hand furniture and accessories whenever possible, especially if it fits into your lifestyle.
Image Source: Project by Graduated #IDIstudent Hilary Jane from @hilaryjanehome
I currently share a home office with my partner, and I have a basement dedicated to my tattooing space and the shipping area for my brand. It’s still in the early stages, but I’m excited about the possibility of expanding into a warehouse one day. This setup works well for me, especially since I’ve had to manage health issues and disabilities, including autism and ADHD, which limited my ability to leave the house every day and work in a more conventional environment. I’ve turned these challenges into an opportunity, allowing me to continue doing what I love.
I love what I do, so it can be hard to disconnect at times. However, I’ve learned to recognize when I need to scale back, as I know firsthand what burnout feels like. I try to practice nervous system regulation techniques on the daily.
Having the freedom to act when I feel inspired is something I truly value. Being action-oriented and having dealt with numerous limitations, I appreciate those moments deeply, even if it’s something as simple as vacuuming.
It is very important. My art is for others, I want people to be inspired. Some other artists might disagree, but if nobody sees my work, it loses its value (for me personally).
One of the highlights for me has been seeing my work come to life as wallpapers and printed fabrics.
Image Source: Wallpapers by Graduated #IDIstudent Hilary Jane from @hilaryjanehome
Working and gaming (right now).
Olive green.
“My mom said to me, 'You know, sweetheart, one day you should settle down and marry a rich man.' And I said, 'Mom, I am a rich man.'”. - Cher
The Expanse book series, I mostly only read (and mostly watch) science fiction.
SOHO House, House of Hackney, and Degournay.
Kevin Sabo (paintings of bold and playful drag queens in bikinis stomping on tiny men with their heels).
Demelza Krens (moodboards that look like paintings).
Velvety, dualistic, empowering.
Image Source: Project by Graduated #IDIstudent Hilary Jane from @hilaryjanehome
I wanted to explore how studying interior design could enhance my work as a product designer and owner of a home decor business, offering a valuable addition to both my education and experience.
I truly enjoyed every part of the course, especially building my portfolio. Although I haven't been practicing as a full-time interior designer, the tools I gained have been invaluable and incredibly enriching.
If you aren’t obsessed with what you do, the challenges you will face will not feel like they are worth it.
Currently, I'm distributing my wholesale catalog to retailers across North America and considering launching an affiliate program and catalogue for designers. We have a program through my wallpaper supplier, so if you're interested in wallpapers, you can explore my collections here.
You can connect with me on Instagram at @hilaryjanehome, or through my website at hilaryjane.ca.
Image Source: Project by Graduated #IDIstudent Hilary Jane from @hilaryjanehome
Hilary’s story is just one of many inspiring journeys of our graduates. Whether you’re seeking a career change or exploring your creative passions, our flexible online course at IDI can help you achieve your dreams. Join today and transform your passion into a profession!
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