Interior designer Julie Hawkins, founder of Hawkins Interiors, has a pretty solid business mantra: Meet as a client. Leave as a friend. Based in Napa, CA, her aesthetic is very much rooted in the organic, natural elements of Northern California–but her love of design started long before she called the Golden State home. In high school, she worked at a local Connecticut design firm, helping to organize the materials library, garden, grab coffees–anything that was necessary! She went on to get her B.A. from the Academy of Art University, San Francisco; soon after, she secured a coveted role in the interiors department at the acclaimed Backen Gillam Architects.

Striking out on her own was a great call, however. Hawkins Interiors is a burgeoning firm with a beautiful portfolio and more projects in the pipeline. We can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next.

MY LIGHTBULB MOMENT:
Ever since I was a child, I’ve wanted to be a designer. My parents gave me a miniature farmhouse to furnish and decorate, which now resides in the design studio. Soon I hope to give it a full remodel!

I CAN’T START MY DAY UNTIL:
I’ve had a few sips of black coffee from my Heath Ceramics mug.

SUCCESS IS:
Continuously trying to improve yourself.

YOU’LL NEVER SEE ME WITHOUT:
My mini Stanley tape measure that my husband gave me.

DREAM COLLABORATION:
Creating a scent line with D.S. & Durga.

THE ONLY PLACE BETTER THAN NAPA:
Paris!

WHEN I FEEL UNINSPIRED
I feverishly buy lifestyle and design books on Amazon. There are stacks of them all over my house and office.

ADVICE I WISH I HAD 5 YEARS AGO:
You can’t plan everything. Things change and evolve over time. Learn to embrace it!

IN 5 YEARS, FIND ME:
Scouring a mix of antique markets and boutique shops around the world being inspired by the new and old.

ABOVE ALL ELSE: 
Be kind.