Jennifer Smith, AIA, Partner at Hart Howerton, brings an interdisciplinary approach to architecture that spans planning, interiors, landscape, and the built environment as a whole. Since joining the firm in 2021, she has helped shape projects ranging from luxury resorts and mixed-use developments to private residences, guided by a design philosophy rooted in authenticity, sustainability, and a strong sense of place. Drawing on experiences that range from urban master planning to intimate residential work, Smith shares how collaboration, thoughtful design, and meaningful human connection continue to define her approach to creating complete environments.

(Image courtesy of Jennifer Smith)

Interview with Jennifer Smith

When you were a kid, what did you dream of becoming? Did any of those childhood ambitions lead you to where you are today?

Growing up in Southern California during the construction boom of the ’90s, I split my career goals between becoming a dolphin trainer and “making houses.” My weekends in Rancho Santa Margarita and Irvine were spent touring model homes and watching new neighborhoods rise from the dirt. Watching entire neighborhoods come to life was an incredible foundation for me. Even then, I could tell which developments felt like home and which didn’t; the projects that prioritized a genuine sense of place left a lasting impression that laid the foundation of how I approach design today.

Where and what did you study?

I studied architecture at the College of Environmental Design at UC Berkeley.

Was there a specific turning point or experience when you realized that design was your true calling?

It was my first all-nighter in college. The energy of studio life, the 2 am creative surge, hot pot meals and cold coffee, the shared adrenaline of a deadline. I thrived on it, and honestly, who thrives on all-nighters? The sleepless nights are mostly behind me now, but that same immersion and love for the work have never faded.

Is there a particular designer, artwork, or design movement that deeply inspires you? How has it influenced your own style or philosophy?

James Turrell has had a profound impact on me, particularly his ability to challenge your perception of space and light. His work balances natural and manmade light in a way that blurs boundaries between inside and outside, between defined space and the beyond. That sensitivity to light and threshold has influenced how I think about architecture. Light is not just illumination, but it shapes experience and perception. It can redefine how a space feels and where it begins and ends.

Which designers do you love following on social media? What draws you to their work?

I love following @freebrianrea for his clever visual takes on human and societal relationships. His work is simple but sharp. Another favorite is @architecture_hunter because they do not adhere to a particular style or typology. They simply curate compelling projects from around the world which keeps my perspective broad. Lastly, @amberinteriors because her work feels approachable. I appreciate her mix of textures and the warmth she brings to interiors. She also has a wit that makes the content engaging.

How would you describe your design philosophy? Has it evolved over time, and if so, how?

My philosophy is to create authentic places that build strong social connections. In a world filled with constant noise and algorithms that tend to homogenize everything we see, it is increasingly important to design places rooted in local culture that foster genuine human connectivity. That core belief has not changed over time. What has changed is my conviction in how essential it is. The importance of authenticity and connection feels even more urgent today.

Tell us a bit about where you live: How long have you been there, and how does your environment shape your creative process?

I have lived in the hills of Belmont, California for the past 15 years. We jokingly call it our “ranch,” although I am not sure if half an acre officially qualifies. We have transformed the space with chickens, fruit trees, and a garden. It is a sanctuary where the noise of the world falls away. That connection to nature, to tending something over time, influences how I think about design, reinforcing the value of creating environments that feel grounded and lived in.

Which of your projects are you most proud of, and what makes them stand out for you?

I have been fortunate to partner with incredible clients over the years. My proudest moments are seeing the spaces we dreamed together become the backdrop for their daily lives – watching the “what-if” design conversations become real memories. There is something deeply rewarding about seeing a beautiful space enriching the lives of our clients.

In your opinion, what is the most significant challenge facing the design world today? How do you think designers should respond to it?

One of the biggest challenges today is the shift in client perception where fast is equated with progress. When impressive visuals can be generated in seconds, the intangible value of a designer’s non-linear, deep-thinking process becomes harder to quantify and justify. It creates a race to the bottom, where thoughtful problem solving can lose out to “good enough” speed. As designers, we need to shift the focus from the polished product to the iterative process. It is through that process that we arrive at solutions rooted in user empathy, brand vision, and long-term business goals. The value is not just in the image, but in the thinking behind it.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently focused on a diverse range of projects that continue to explore how architecture can create meaningful connections, building on the same core principles that have guided my work from the beginning.

What’s on the horizon for you? Any upcoming projects, events, or goals you’re particularly looking forward to?

I am especially excited about returning to the island resort projects where our firm originally laid the design foundation. Seeing how our initial work helped foster a thriving community underscores the lasting impact of creating authentic places. Now we have the opportunity to craft the next chapter, evolving the vision to meet modern needs while staying true to the soul of what we built. That continuity and evolution is incredibly meaningful.

What’s a favorite movie, band, or song that has inspired or shaped your creative mind?

Charles and Ray Eames’ film, “Powers of Ten”, made a lasting impression on me early in my architectural education, fundamentally shaping the way I understand scale, context, and our role as designers. It is a powerful lesson in scale and perspective. It remains a vital reminder that the places and spaces we create are never isolated. They exist within a much larger ecosystem, and understanding that context is essential to meaningful design.

Visit Hart Howerton’s Website >>>

Interested in learning about other designers?
SEE MORE DESIGNER PROFILES >>>