Jessica Cane’s Parti Pris Design: The Fast Growing Boutique Interior Firm Taking Chicago by Storm
Design City
Chicago has been the inspiration for some of the sharpest minds in US architectural history, from the pre-eminent urban planner Daniel Burnham to the great Frank Lloyd Wright. For Jessica Cane, owner and principal designer of Parti Pris Design, the city was the perfect setting to launch a boutique interior design firm after moving to Wright’s old stomping ground of Oak Park, in the city’s Western suburbs.
“In Chicago, architecture and innovation are everywhere you look,” she says. “They go hand in hand here.”
With Parti Pris, which she founded three years ago, Jessica has carved out a niche in the city’s design scene for creating spaces that are both inspiring and functional. While her career has been rooted in creativity, after 15 years working in the luxury wholesale fashion industry, her entry into the design world was anything but conventional.
From Fashion to Interiors
For 15 years, Jessica worked in fashion showrooms across the world in a career that took her to London, Hong Kong and New York. “I worked worldwide in the luxury wholesale fashion industry,” she says.
After moving to Chicago in 2018, however, it was time to pivot. “It became clear that continuing in fashion with two small children and frequent travel wasn’t feasible,” she recalls.
The move into design was both logical and organic. After buying a house that needed significant renovation, Jessica was struck by the similarities between fashion and interiors. “The process of selecting colors, finishes, and working with wholesalers felt natural,” she explains. “I also found joy in spatial planning.”
Her next step was to join a local design firm. Then, after polishing her skills, Jessica launched her own venture. She named it “Parti Pris,” a French expression which, in architectural terms, refers to a big idea or central concept behind a project. As a Francophile, it felt like the perfect fit.
Designing the World with Parti Pris
Three years on, Parti Pris is a full-service interior design company with a global reach. The firm works with clients both across the US and internationally, offering an array of services ranging from initial concept development to project execution.
“Communication is the most important thing,” she says. “Clients are busy, so I ensure they’re always informed without having to check in.”
Jessica’s client-focused ethos ensures that every project reflects the homeowner’s style. However, she’s also not afraid to push the boundaries, while respecting her client’s preferences. “My job is to guide them toward loving their space,” she says. “If they are not happy, I’ll dial it back.”
Jessica’s design philosophy draws on both her experience in fashion and her love of global travel. Still, her core focus remains on client-led designs. “I identify their style and taste, working within those parameters while introducing elements of color and texture,” she explains.
When asked about that one special project, Jessica insists that each project offers an opportunity to learn and innovate. She takes pride in every accomplishment, from executing her clients’ visions to inspiring them to explore new possibilities.
Leading by Example
To be a leader in design requires problem-solving, communication, and project management skills. “Rarely does a project go exactly as planned,” Jessica admits. “The key is adapting and finding solutions quickly. Strong communication between vendors, contractors, and clients is essential.”
Jessica’s commitment to staying ahead of industry trends is also a central component of her leadership approach. She has developed a deep network of design peers, mentors, and vendors, who she calls her ‘design buddies.’ Together they attend industry events like High Point Market in North Carolina – the Superbowl of interior design- and share the latest insights and innovations.
Of course, Jessica also credits Chicago’s vibrant design scene: “My vendors are invaluable, introducing me to new products and styles. And living in Chicago offers access to incredible resources like the Merchandise Mart and vintage furniture stores.”
Balancing Act
Juggling a thriving business and a busy personal and family life is a delicate balancing act. “Work-Life balance? What is that? I am constantly striving for it,” jokes Jessica. She acknowledges the importance of setting boundaries to avoid burnout but also admits that this is very much a work in progress. She aims to strike that balance while continuing to pour her heart into her designs.
Jessica’s candor about her struggles certainly makes her relatable to aspiring entrepreneurs facing similar challenges. Her advice to them is simple yet powerful: “Work hard and hustle. Gain experience wherever you can, and don’t be afraid to admit what you don’t know. You will be amazed at how many people are willing to mentor you.”
Boundaries
Often considered male-dominated, the construction industry can be difficlt to navigate as a woman. Dealing with chauvinism can be a regular occurrence. For instance, she recalls being asked to run errands unrelated to her role. “It’s important to establish boundaries,” she emphasizes. “I make it clear that my scope of work is design-focused. Once roles are defined, collaborations become seamless.”
This approach has earned her respect in the industry and offers an example for women in the field dealing with similar challenges.
Women in Design: Building Bridges, Not Walls
Having attended an all-women college, Jessica is a passionate proponent of collaboration over competition and a strong advocate of female empowerment. She works with female architects, designers, and other professionals, creating a network built on mutual support. “I love working with women-led companies, from architects to cabinet designers. Supporting other designers is also vital. There is enough work to go around.”
The Future for Parti Pris
Looking ahead, Jessica envisions continued growth for Parti Pris Design. “I hope to keep growing and perfecting my process so that every project runs smoother and smoother,” she says.
Jessica Cane’s journey to get this far, from her beginnings in the fashion industry to her present crafting exquisite interiors, proves the power of reinvention and perseverance and highlights how important it is to be adaptable and willing to learn. Her journey also serves as an inspiration for women in all lines of business.
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