Designing Fearlessly: How Holly Hunt Changed the Game
When we think about women who’ve shaped the design world, Holly Hunt is one of those names that immediately comes to mind — not just because of her signature style, but because of how she built her brand. With equal parts boldness and refined taste, Holly is a shining example of what happens when you question the status quo… and trust your eye.
In the early 1980s, Holly bought a small showroom in Chicago. At the time, high-end interiors were still heavy, ornate, and traditional. But Holly saw something different. She believed there was space, and demand, for a cleaner, more modern aesthetic rooted in impeccable craftsmanship. And instead of waiting for the industry to catch up, she built it herself.
What’s always inspired us about Holly Hunt is her absolute, unwavering commitment to quality — not just in the big picture but in every single detail. From sourcing the best-made fabrics to obsessing over the perfect finish, Holly made sure everything that carried her name reflected her exacting standards. She wasn’t interested in chasing trends; she was building something timeless. And it worked.
Her Great Plains textile line is still a masterclass in beautiful simplicity with subtle palettes, natural fibers, and luxurious textures you just feel when you touch them. Every piece is designed to last, both in quality and style. And that attention to detail is part of what’s made her brand so enduring. Even today, Holly Hunt showrooms remain a destination for designers seeking the best of the best.
In 2014, Holly sold her company and brand to Knoll for $95 Million. Since then, she’s returned to the industry where she launched House of Hunt, a boutique studio where she’s still dreaming up beautiful homes and custom pieces, collaborating with designers, and staying close to the creative process she loves. That spirit, of building, refining, and always staying curious, is exactly why she’s remained such a force.
Holly’s story is a great reminder that doing things your way, even when it feels risky, is where the magic happens. She trusted her instincts, bet on quality, and proved there’s always room in the market for those willing to raise the bar.
If you’re working on your own creative path — dreaming up a product line, a design collection, or a brand that feels a little different from what’s out there — we hope Holly’s story inspires you to take the leap. The industry needs more voices willing to question the norm and create something better.
Here’s to taking chances, raising the standard, and designing fearlessly.
