Andrea Hutchman is an interior designer based in Los Angeles and the founder of Poppy Interiors, which she launched in 2016. Her work is known for its bold use of color, playful layering and thoughtful integration of personal storytelling into each space. Recently, her designs were featured in the 2024 Kingston Design Connection showhouse in New York. With a background in acting, Andrea brings a unique, narrative-driven perspective to interiors, approaching each project with creativity, empathy and a sense of fun. Her designs are informed by a love of travel and a deep belief that our spaces should spark joy and reflect who we are. Life is too short for boring rooms! Get a deep dive into the mind of Andrea Hutchman in today’s Designer Friday.
This dining room combines bold patterns, vibrant colors and playful details, like the green mantel and tilework to create a space that feels fun, layered, and full of personality.
Andrew Joseph: How do you approach designing for different types of clients?
Andrea Hutchman: My previous career was acting, and I have found lots of crossover between the two disciplines. I like to think of my clients as acting roles, in a way. I try to see through their eyes and choose things that they like. It’s fun to try to get inside someone’s head and think like them. However, I am not a “method“ designer. I will definitely be the real me if I disagree with a direction they want to take!
AJ: Can you describe a project where you had to work with a specific theme or motif?
AH: I did a house in Los Angeles whose owners were really into old Hollywood and film history. We have lots of references to Los Angeles and filmmaking throughout the house, but my favorite thing is the bowler hat pendant light in their butler’s pantry. The owner is a Charlie Chaplin devotee, and we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to use it.
AJ: What’s your design pet peeve?
AH: Anything boring. I don’t understand why someone would want a cookie-cutter house with everything gray in it. It’s depressing to express no individuality.
Soft sage cabinetry, scenic wallpaper and warm brass accents give this kitchen a dreamy, collected feel that balances elegance with a sense of storybook charm.
AJ: Can you tell us about a project where you had to incorporate a client’s personal collection into the design?
AH: I currently have a client who has an extensive (and I really mean extensive!) collection of memorabilia from the 1964 World’s Fair. There are posters and figurines and models and toys and even a seat from a ride. It was clear from the beginning that this collection was not to be downsized and that it may continue to grow. We designed, essentially, a museum gallery to house a rotating exhibit of the items. It’s actually been really fun. But don’t ask me about the thousands of CDs that they no longer have a player for!
AJ: What’s your favorite cocktail?
AH: A gin martini, Beefeater if possible. Dry, with one olive and one cocktail onion. Mwah!
AJ: How do you stay creative and inspired?
AH: This is a little tricky because this is hard for me. I try to be good and sit at my desk and get things done, but I know that I need to play hooky every now and then. I find that if I try to force myself to be productive, all I end up doing is pushing paper around and getting nowhere. I sometimes have to do the responsible thing and go to a movie during the day. But, truthfully, letting my mind wander is often the best thing I can do to keep the creativity flowing.
This bathroom mixes classic and modern touches, with a bold chandelier that adds drama and draws the eye upward, giving the space a sense of height and presence.
AJ: What is the most important element in a successful interior design?
AH: I would say the mix of elements is what makes a good project. I’m not trying to hedge the question, but it really is a combination of related and unrelated things that make a cool room. I like to mix vintage eras and also vintage with new. I also like rooms that feel comfortable but have little surprises. And spaces always need to have something silly in them, just for fun.
AJ: What was the last book you read and how did it inspire you?
AH: I am re-reading a John Connolly book, A Game of Ghosts. I love his books. He’s written a series of books that are basically a detective series with supernatural undertones and lots of murdery bits. It has inspired me to keep all the lights on in my house.
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