HG Design
Anne Hepfer
Meet the Designer
We asked New York native and Toronto-based designer Anne Hepfer of Anne Hepfer Designs what fuels her distinctive style. A graduate of Parsons School of Design, Hepfer worked with Daniel Romualdez Architects on projects for celebrities and high profile individuals both in Manhattan and the Hamptons before starting her own firm. Now based in Toronto, she focuses on residential projects across North America and has become known for combining architecture with design, and for sourcing unique finds from her travels around the globe to infuse character and soul into each of her projects.
HG: How would you define your style?
AH: Fresh, timeless, layered, bespoke.
HG: When did you first become interested in design?
AH: My mother was an interior designer and I was exposed to many beautiful homes in NYC and Connecticut where I grew up. My dad’s company specializes in creating brand experiences. I chose my profession because I believe that it is my purpose in life. Designing interiors is about discovering how we live, our personal style, and how we can make a space the best it can be. At the completion of a project, there's nothing more joyful or rewarding to me than knowing that we are making a positive difference in our clients' lives.
HG: Who or what inspires you?
AH: Travel is my number one passion and biggest inspiration in my designs.
HG: Where is your happy place?
AH: My happy place is somewhere exotic and adventurous. Most recently we were in Sri Lanka which was an incredible experience. My clients will tell you that they’ve bought several goodies that I bring home from various countries. I enjoy the experience of traveling and learning about different cultures, history, architecture, religions. Everywhere I go, I seek to find craftsmen, learn about their craft and how things are made. We’re always changed after returning from a trip as we’ve gained a new perspective.
HG: What's your favourite part of the design process?
AH: I can’t choose one! The Beginning: I love discovering who my clients are as we embark on the journey of creating personal style. Building the relationships with my clients facilitates trust to give us creative freedom to put together the pieces of the puzzle and create the magic. The Designing: I love working with our team to create the big picture concept and then draw, design, shop and focus on every last little detail. The End: The completion and photography of the project is emotional for me; seeing our ideas come to life and how every element has a connection, purpose, function and a memory of its creation.
HG: Styling tip?
AH: Invest in interesting vases and containers rather than plain glass. Bring nature indoors with flowers, plants, or outdoor finds. I layer with books, curiosities, and things with meaning that bring happiness and joy. I have an obsession with ceramics, glassware and linens. I enjoy switching out table settings because I can create so many different looks. It makes dinnertime fun whether it’s just the six of us or entertaining friends and family.
HG: Favourite room in the house?
AH: I love designing and spending time cooking in the kitchen. It’s where families and guests congregate, where, people laugh, relax, share, eat and enjoy!
HG: Best entertaining tip?
AH: Think of the five senses to create the perfect gathering of friends: smell (favourite scented candle), taste (a mouth-watering, home cooked meal), see (flowers, candles and a perfectly styled dining table or bar), hear (great playlist depending on the mood you want to create), touch (well, I’m a hugger).
