We recently spoke with Jen Dean, the principal designer and the creative force behind Utah-based Jede Interiors, about building a boutique design studio in our latest podcast.
Explaining how the boutique categorization impacts her firm’s business model, Dean said she stays closely involved in every project, giving clients senior-level thinking, decision-making and oversight throughout the process. “I’m in the details because the details of a home is what makes a home feel special,” she said.
She intentionally limits the studio’s project load so they “can go deep, not wide.” This means that the team is able to go into depth on thoughtful layouts and spend time refining – not rushing – the design.
Next, Dean talks about the Jede Interiors design process. They start by understanding how a family lives, not what’s trending on IG. Each project is anchored in a clear story: how the home should feel, function and support the clients’ real life.
The designer points out that the firm is committed to making the process as painless as possible, and that this approach informs not only their business methods, but their goals as well. “We value long-term relationships – with clients, builders, architects and trades – over chasing volume,” she said. This means ensuring there is thoughtful collaboration, clear communication and mutual respect for everyone involved in the project.
The conversation concludes with Dean highlighting some of the qualities that set a boutique design practice apart from the competition. “We’re big believers in slowing things down on the front end, so once construction starts, decisions feel clear and confident. By taking on fewer projects and staying closely involved, we’re able to create homes that feel calm, personal and truly livable – not just pretty for a season.”
To hear the full conversation with Jen Dean, listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pandora and other outlets.
