Story & Soul in an East Austin Home

Inspired by Global Artisans

Words by Janine Stankus Photos by Katie Jameson

If home is where the heart is, Jessica Honegger’s home is where you’ll find her heart’s truest pleasures: traveling, collecting unique treasures, running her own artisan-focused B-Corp, Noonday Collection, and nurturing her family. The house is teeming with storied objects—from antique furniture and childhood memorabilia to local artwork and unique pieces sourced from across the globe. “I have a business that empowers artisans all over the world,” explains Jessica, “so it was really important for me to incorporate a home that has that sense of story and that sense of soulfulness.”  

All of these treasures come together with surprising cohesion, thanks to the design vision of Jessica’s longtime friend, Shannon Eddings. “What’s so unique about Shannon is that she is able to adapt to your style, and my style is so eclectic,” remarks Jessica. Together, the two transformed a mid-century house into a home that is both meaningful and modern.

The Honeggers bought their Windsor Park house in 2007, having already lived in the neighborhood for about seven years. It was Jessica’s husband, Joe, who wandered into an estate sale and pegged the place as a perfect new home for them and their three children. Ever enterprising, Jessica decided to write to the owners directly and sealed the deal on their dream home-to-be.

Built in 1966, the bones of the house were solid so the Honeggers’ architect, Sarah Bullock McIntyre, convinced them to keep the original footprint. They opened up the central floor plan and installed skylights into the lofted ceilings. Many rooms shifted purpose. A former playroom off the primary bedroom became Jessica’s home office. The sizable guest bedroom abutting the back patio transformed into a well-used “wet room” after they finished installing their pool in 2017.

Now, beyond the entryway, the dining, living room, and kitchen areas open up as a well-integrated set of design vignettes, which speak Shannon’s skillful styling. “I wanted it to feel the way I feel when I walk into some of my favorite boutique hotels internationally,” Jessica reflects. “You know, that feeling of soulful, gathered, warm, hospitable.”  

“I think a lot of clients can have a narrow mindset about what they can do, especially in a mid-century home. In my own work, I love to mix decades and different eras, and I think Jess and I see eye-to-eye there.”   

Shannon Eddings

An arching original-brick fireplace immediately draws the eye towards the back of the space, where it’s sidelined en route by intriguing furnishings: taupe saddle leather chairs sourced by Shannon, an antique cabinet filled with figurines that belonged to Jessica’s mother, a mid-century-esque coffee table built by Joe, woven baskets from Africa, and a planter gifted by an artist in Peru. 

The kitchen is simple and modern in contrast, but still organic and warm. A quartzite waterfall countertop is flanked by white oak cabinets and a textured zellige backsplash, alongside sleek, modern appliances. Shannon was integral in bringing in modern elements and cultivating a sense of balance throughout the home. “I think a lot of clients can have a narrow mindset about what they can do, especially in a mid-century home,” she explains. “In my own work, I love to mix decades and different eras, and I think Jess and I really see eye-to-eye there.” 

While Jessica is thrilled with how her vision came to life in the home and over years of renovation projects, the office, however, has become her personal sanctuary. With serene teal hues showcasing a Matisse-inspired ceiling mural and huge windows facing the backyard, it’s a space that inspires gratitude. “My husband and I will have coffee here in the mornings and just chat.” She adds, smiling fondly. “I sit here and look at the trees when it’s green, and I just, I can’t even believe I have this.”  

Supporting Global Artisans
Jessica founded the Noonday Collectionn in 2010 to connect artisans around the world to a growing market for their goods. She was inspired by Ugandan jewelry designers, Jalia and Daniel, who dreamed of fashion/craft becoming a source for dignified jobs in their community. What started as a trunk show in Jessica’s home became a full-fledged, thriving fair-trade marketplace and accelerator for global artisan businesses. The Noonday Collection has recently expanded into home goods, with a series of lovingly crafted diffusers, candle holders, vases, vessels, and more. 

Seek & You Shall Find
During a stay at the South Congress Hotel, Jessica and Joe became enchanted by the artwork and decided they wanted something similar for their home. The next day, Jessica mentioned their stay to a friend, who turned around and introduced her to Tyler Guinn, the Austin artist who had done all the work for the hotel. Today, the Honeggers’ home sports several of Guinn’s pieces, hand-picked by each family member. “Love Comes Down” is the earthy-hued work that hangs above the fireplace, coalescing the room’s warm, organic palette.

Contact:
Jessica Honegger
jessicahonegger.com
Noonday Collection
noondaycollection.com
Shannon Eddings Design
shannoneddings.com
Sarah Bullock McIntyre Architect
bullockmcintyre.com