DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: Chrissy Howard, Jinx McDonald

Chrissy Howard

When Chrissy Howard, lead designer at Jinx McDonald shared her final installation of the Ondine Chandelier with us we asked if she would be willing to share more. What are your favorite moments when designing a project? Most common mistake you see in interiors? What’s your favorite piece in your own home? Our Designer Spotlight series continues to grow; thank you for sharing with us Chrissy!

CHRISSY HOWARD has nearly twenty years of experience in residential design. She earned her bachelor’s degree in interior design at Florida State University and is a licensed interior designer. Her extensive history in the home construction process gives her unique insight into managing projects as well as working with building trades. She enjoys collaborating with clients to translate their ideas into fabulous interior spaces. She finds inspiration in traveling and has a deep interest in architecture.

Ondine 12 Light Chandelier
Interior by Chrissy Howard, Jinx McDonald Interior Designs, Inc.

What is your favorite and least favorite aspects of being a designer?
The ” big reveal” with a client is so special. I cherish that look when the realization hits them that this is THEIR  home—all of the time and effort is so worth it. My least favorite aspect of interior design is relaying bad news: long lead times, work delays, overdue COM fabrics, damaged items, etc.. I hate disappointing people!

Most common mistake you see in interiors?
Call it a pet peeve, but I think that one of the most common mistakes is rugs that are too small for the space! For me, it grabs my attention and I find it difficult to get past it! 

Describe a favorite piece in your personal home?
I have a large scale (36″W x 60″H) vintage print Florida map that I love, especially since a native Floridian. I love being able to see all the different cities I’ve lived and the different places I’ve traveled to.  

Why did you choose Ironware for this project?
The client used this fixture as our starting point for her master bedroom, so everything else was built around this fixture!

What music are you listening to right now?
I listen to all different types of music, it just depends on my mood. Right now I am into alternative artist Billie Eillish. I also love old school Willie Nelson, Leon Bridges and the Lumineers; they are on a constant rotation.

Name three things you can’t live without besides family, faith and friends? Good food, great music and fun games…I love to play board games and cards.

What is your favorite local hang out? I am a homebody, so my house!


Special thanks to our Florida showroom Jerry Pair for connecting us to this talented designer and her team!