The Art of Living: Meet Jessica Miller, Where Design Meets Life

Jessica has been crafting aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces as our Interior Design Specialist at Riemco the last four years. It became very clear that she was ready to level up her vast knowledge and expertise to transition into our new Project Designer. As she adapts to this new role, she will shoulder more responsibility by overseeing the entire design process on some of our remodel projects – from initial concept to final execution – while still leveraging her design proficiency to ensure every detail aligns with our client’s vision. Jessica says the transition has been challenging, but also incredibly rewarding, as it’s given her a broader perspective on how design can impact every stage of a project.

In the heart of Jackson, Michigan, a century-old farmhouse is slowly revealing its hidden character under the careful guidance of Project Designer, Jessica Miller and her husband Kenny. The 1900s home, with its original moldings and vintage charm, serves as both canvas and classroom for this Riemco designer who approaches each project – whether personal or professional – with an artist’s eye.

“Being creative is what I enjoy doing the most,” Jessica shares, reflecting on her journey beginning as an interior designer. It’s a path that wasn’t always clear. Despite her creative talents – from acrylic painting and mixed media drawings – Jessica also excelled in science and math, leading her to start her college career in radiology at Jackson Community College.

But creativity has a way of asserting itself. An introduction to interior design sparked an interest that would reshape her future. “I knew I would be much happier in a creative field,” she recalls. This insight led her to Michigan State University’s rigorous interior design program, where she competed against double the number of applicants for limited spots. The program’s intensive curriculum – from hand rendering to construction fundamentals – laid the groundwork for her sophisticated approach to design.

At Riemco, Jessica has found her creative home. “The process is so client-focused, and our team works together well. We can all toss out ideas and are respected for different viewpoints. We have amazing clients to work with and every project is unique, with new designs, and new challenges to figure out.”

Her design philosophy reflects both her professional expertise and personal aesthetic. While she appreciates Minimalist design, Jessica’s heart leans more toward Maximalism. “Great design should look and feel like someone lives there,” she asserts. Her projects often feature layered elements – unique tile combinations, varied lighting solutions, and thoughtful details that reflect the depth and personality of her clients.

Jessica is excited about emerging design trends that align with her artistic sensibilities. “We’re seeing a return to natural elements – wood cabinets instead of painted cabinetry, bringing the outdoors in, and emphasizing natural light.”

Her own home renovation project has become a laboratory for these design principles. The 13-acre wooded property, while challenging to live through its transformation, has become a testament to her belief that design is not just about aesthetics but about creating spaces that enhance life. “Working at Riemco has opened my eyes to possibilities I didn’t know existed,” she reflects. “I’ve learned about products and materials that have transformed how I approach both client projects and my own home.” This synthesis of professional expertise and personal passion exemplifies Jessica’s approach to design. Whether she’s re-imagining a client’s space or planning her future art studio she brings her same creative spirit and attention to detail. For Jessica, interior design isn’t just a career – it’s an expression of how she sees the world.