In 2006, Susan Hayward began her firm, Susan Hayward Interiors, with the simple philosophy that interior design should reflect the personality and lifestyle of the client, not the designer. Joined by her daughter, Jillian Hayward Schaible, the New England-based mother-daughter team strives to uncover every client’s unique tastes and personal style. After nearly two decades of designing residential and commercial projects, Susan Hayward Interiors brings a homeowner’s dream to life with beautifully curated interior design for all. Learn more about Susan and Jillian in today’s Designer Friday.
This breezy waterfront home is emulated in its coastal-style design that seamlessly blends with its stunning surroundings.
Andrew Joseph: What’s one thing people don’t know about you?
Susan Hayward: I have the hardest time designing anything in my own home! Designing other peoples’ homes every day is such a joy, but when it comes to doing any work in my own house, it feels like such a nightmare! There are just too many options out there and it is so hard to make decisions or commit to any one thing. Now I know why people hire us!
Jillian Hayward Schaible: My passion is truly in the natural world, and I am always happiest outside, whether it be out on the water or in the middle of a forest. I always try to bring the outdoors “in” when designing spaces.
AJ: What are three things you can’t live without?
SH: My family, good food, and a positive attitude.
JHS: My family, sunshine, and fresh air.
A gold finish on the light fixtures and bar stools contrast beautifully against the grand marble island and matching backsplash in this kitchen.
AJ: What might the design world look like in 10 years?
SH: Hopefully trends will be less important, and what individuals like will be more important. With people spending more and more time in their homes, it will be more of a reflection of what they love and less about what is trending at the moment.
JHS: I really hope that the design world follows a path toward sustainability, smarter materials sourcing, and an emphasis on energy efficiency.
AJ: If you had one more hour in the day what would you do with it?
SH: Go outside!
JHS: Realistically, I would be cooking!
With expansive ceilings, 360-degree clerestory windows, and shimmering crystal chandelier, this grandiose kitchen achieves above and beyond what might be expected with a long, skinny floor plan.
AJ: Best advice you’d give your teenage self?
SH: It’s never too late to try something new, so don’t be so hung up on any decision that you have to make because it’s not going to last forever.
JHS: There is a whole world out there, and living in new places will be some of the greatest adventures you could ever have.
AJ: What are some of the podcasts you listen to and why?
SH: I don’t listen to podcasts… I’d prefer to read a book!
JHS: I LOVE Tunde’s podcasts on Peloton. She is so inspiring to me in every way, and the way she lifts up and supports the people around her in such a positive, accessible way is just such a force.
Jillian Hayward Schaible is a renowned member of the American Society of Interior Designers and partner of Susan Hayward Interiors. In a similar fashion to her mother and mentor, Jillian took a very unconventional path to become a designer. With her husband working as a helicopter pilot for the US Navy, it took a few moves and career changes before she could finally find a career that not only works for her lifestyle but that she loves. Now a full-time interior designer, Jillian is passionate about working with clients to help them visualize and achieve the spaces they envision, with both beauty and practicality.
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