For Designer Breegan Jane, “Sometimes Luxury Is Simplicity”

We’re starting to wonder if there’s nothing Los Angeles-based designer, Breegan Jane can’t do. The mom of two is a writer (you can read her design tips and insights on BreeganJane.com), an author (she wrote a children’s book titled, Carbie), a philanthropist (she’s worked with World Vision and Union Rescue Mission, Charity: water, No Kid Hungry, and visited Kenya several times to help eradicate female genital mutilation. Oh, and she’s also one of the star designers on HGTV’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition—yep, Jane is definitely more than one thing! 

While her career started out in fashion, she quickly learned interiors were her passion, and it’s safe to say the pivot paid off. Her bold yet timeless approach to design has made her a household name but not just for the home, she has also designed restaurants, luxury yachts, and even a plane hangar! Keep reading to learn more about Jane from her career trajectory to her design philosophy, and the challenges along the way. 

NAME: Breegan Jane

PROFESSION: Interior Designer/TV Personality/Entrepreneur

HOME BASE: Los Angeles, California

INSTAGRAM: @BreeganJane

WEBSITE: breeganjane.com

BRIEFLY, HOW YOU CAME TO DO WHAT YOU DO:

My affinity for interior design began as early as my teenage years. I owned a retail store at 19, and it didn’t take long to discover that my love for beautifying the store surpassed that of designing clothing. Visual representation is something I was always drawn to, and chances are if it’s artistic, I’ve tried it! I’ve done everything from staging luxury yachts to redesigning a plane hangar. All of those experiences and interests culminated into the career I have now!

WHAT YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB:

I don’t know if I could ever narrow it down to one thing because I love so much about design. Perhaps near the top of the list is the ability to positively affect someone’s life by improving the functionality of their space and infusing it with beauty. Our surroundings have a great impact on our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing!

 WHAT YOU LIKE LEAST ABOUT YOUR JOB:

I’m grateful there isn’t much to dislike about what I do! If I have to select one thing, it would be the curveballs we designers often have to deal with. There’s nothing more frustrating than discovering there’s a delivery or manufacturing delay on a custom piece of furniture, a rare crystal collection, or another item needed to complete a project and meet a deadline. Clients aren’t always understanding of those detours in the plan, and they can be pretty challenging to navigate.

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY:

Lean into the bones you were given in your space, always use natural light when you can, sometimes luxury is simplicity, and opt for timeless over trendy.

YOUR AESTHETIC IN 3 WORDS: Modern, approachable, luxury.

WHAT INSPIRES YOUR WORK MOST AND WHY?

I’m inspired by the stunning aesthetic of Ibiza, Spain because of the gorgeous teals and whites you see in abundance. I’m also inspired by my Southern California upbringing; it’s a mesh of the laid-back but luxurious essence you see in homes brimming with upscale design and the casual, everyday feeling of having sandy toes. I’m also inspired by my motherhood journey and the lessons it has taught me about incorporating functionality within a space from which the entire family can benefit.

 I’M ENDLESSLY OBSESSED WITH____ BECAUSE: Stone in design because it adds easy sophistication to any space.

DESIGN TREND YOU LOVE? WHY? 

 I’m loving textured neutrals because they offer just the right amount of visual interest without the worries of any color palette clashes.

ONE YOU WISH WOULD GO AWAY? WHY?

Furry pillows! They never look great for long, and they’re just uncomfortable for actual use!

COLOR OR NEUTRAL? EXPLAIN.

Neutral! I find that neutrals allow for the ultimate versatility. If you keep your base neutral and muted, you can layer in pops of color, texture, and design styles as often as you wish.

WE WILL NEVER SEE _____ IN YOUR HOME (WHY):

Big heavy wooden bed frames. I love a beautiful bed design, but the heavy rails along the sides always hurt like crazy if you bump into them. I jokingly refer to them as “shin killers.”

HOW AND WHERE YOU SHOP:

Wertz Brothers in Santa Monica is a favorite spot of mine. It’s like going on a treasure hunt, and the owner is awesome about sourcing items for you. There are even pet birds that live inside the store.

WHO ARE YOUR DESIGN ICONS AND WHY? 

Kelly Wearstler has such a unique way of combining elements that you wouldn’t suspect would complement one another, but somehow always work. The result is stunning. Martha Stewart has always been a design icon I’ve admired. Besides her impeccable style, she is an accomplished businesswoman who has built an impressive empire.