Jett Thompson
Travel Inspiration
Jett Thompson’s adventures in Africa, Europe and the Middle East have played a huge role in her creative design philosophy. “Travel has had a really solid influence on my work. I always try to bring back beautiful things that I can use in the store and I look forward to curating an inspiring collection every time I return.” says Jett.
Africa’s mesmerizing landscapes, rich cultures, and diverse wildlife have left an indelible mark on her sense of design. Jett holds a particular fondness for Lewa Downs’ 100,000 acres just a short drive from Nairobi, Kenya, where rhinoceros conservation efforts have been remarkably successful. The textiles, fabrics and crafts she found in local markets and villages resonate with her love of bold and unique design elements.
Her numerous visits to this vast continent have filled her with a deep appreciation of its wild, untamed beauty.
Jett’s recent journey to Istanbul, accompanied by the esteemed Leaders of Design Council, was filled with a vibrant profusion of cultures and colors. From the dazzling rugs, intricate textiles and exquisite jewelry, Istanbul’s markets offered an unparalleled experience. When in Paris, Jett often spends time in a museum featuring ethnic Turkish tiles. While strolling through Istanbul’s palaces, she was able to admire these vivid tiles up close. Personal tours of local craftsmen’s studios, speaking with vendors in the markets, and even having tea with a restorer of rare textiles elevated her travel experience and provided creative inspiration.
“I’ve never had a bad day in Italy. I don’t think it’s possible!” exclaims Jett, reflecting on the serenity and beauty she’s discovered there over the years. She is especially fond of Northern Italy, specifically Lake Como, and her friend’s restored 16th-century Fortaleza in the Italian mountains. Jett’s travels extend to the coastal regions and Florence with its rich museum offerings. Each region of Italy she has visited brings its own unique charm and much inspiration for Jett’s design ideas.
When in Paris Jett lives like a local, renting a place in the Marais district and savoring an “American in Paris” lifestyle. Museums are key inspirations for Jett’s design aesthetic and while she adores the grandeur of the Louvre, the Institute of Giacometti is her favorite. Venturing beyond the tourist areas, Jett explores the lively markets, flea markets and areas locals frequent. For Jett Paris offers endless opportunities for adventure, enrichment and discovering unique items for her clients.
On her many buying trips to England, like her latest to the Royal Horticultural Show in London, she is always thrilled to reconnect with old friends and dealers and make new contacts. “2023 found me in the United Kingdom several times, including an amazing trip to the Cotswolds with a friend with a Masters in art history. Touring country estates and gardens with this knowledgable person gave me so much creative content to bring back to Jett Thompson Home and my current design projects.” says Jett.
Jett Thompson