DESIGNER DIALOGUES - JASON ARNOLD OF JASON ARNOLD INTERIORS

We have all heard the saying, "Opposites attract."

Though this is often said in reference to people, the principle holds in design as well. Some of the most memorable spaces are those that blend seemingly opposing elements into one-of-a-kind compositions. When contrasting characteristics, such as rustic and refined, are intentionally brought together, the result is a room that feels balanced, warm, curated, and deeply personal.

Few designers embrace this approach as beautifully as Jason Arnold. His work is rooted in the belief that homes should feel collected rather than decorated. With this philosophy in mind, he thoughtfully layers antiques with contemporary pieces, creating interiors that feel timeless, elegant, and welcoming.

Today, we're delighted to continue our Designer Dialogues series with Jason. In this conversation, he shares his design style, his best advice for those feeling stuck during the design process, what he loves most about living and working in Tennessee, and more.

We hope you enjoy!

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR DESIGN STYLE, AND HOW HAS IT EVOLVED SINCE YOU FIRST BEGAN INTERIOR DESIGN? 

I think the best description is collected and edited. My favorite part of my job is taking all the pieces that my clients and I have assembled for a project and putting them together in a way that creates a sense of tension and balance. That’s where the magic happens for me. The evolution has come in my confidence as a designer and having the ability to buy in Europe.

WHAT QUESTIONS DO YOU ASK EVERY NEW CLIENT BEFORE STARTING A PROJECT?

I love to travel, so I always ask my clients to name their favorite hotel. Hotels often represent a fantasy of how they want to live, and their answer gives me a lot of insight. It reveals how they want their home to feel and gives me a reference for creating a space that truly reflects them.

 WHAT’S THE WORST DESIGN ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED? 

It wasn’t bad advice per se but it wasn’t right for me or my business. It’s the wild wild west out there and you have to block out the noise, trust your gut, and do what works best for you.

IF SOMEONE FEELS STUCK ON A HOME PROJECT, WHAT IS THE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE THEM? 

Get the floor right. Every room needs a good foundation so I would invest in a rug that is the right scale for

the room. Doesn’t have to be expensive….just the right scale. I always start with 12” off the wall as a good

rule of thumb.

CAN YOU SHARE A RECENT PROJECT YOU LOVED WORKING ON, AND WHAT MADE IT ESPECIALLY MEANINGFUL?

The most meaningful projects always begin with a trusting client who has put together a dream team of architects, builders, and trades, and everyone is working towards the same vision. We recently completed a home out West for a wonderful family who placed an incredible amount of trust in our team throughout the process. They were genuinely appreciative every step of the way, and that's what made the project so rewarding. I feel fortunate to have played a part in creating a home that I know will be enjoyed by their family for many years to come.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT WORKING AND LIVING IN TENNESSEE? 

Without a doubt, the four seasons. I love watching the landscape change throughout the year, and I think each season brings a different kind of inspiration. Tennessee has a wonderful mix of natural beauty, creativity, and of course, hospitality, making it an incredible place to live and work.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ROOM IN A HOME TO DESIGN?

Definitely the living room. I love imagining how people will gather in the space and creating moments that

encourage conversation and connection. It's also the room where you have the space to really flex your muscles with different styles and create a great mix.

IF YOU WEREN’T A DESIGNER, WHAT OTHER PATH COULD YOU IMAGINE YOURSELF PURSUING? 

I’m a frustrated architect at heart.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY FOR PEOPLE TO STAY CONNECTED WITH YOU AND FOLLOW ALONG WITH YOUR LATEST PROJECTS?

Instagram, or you can always find me at Bricktops West End.

Thank you so much to Jason Arnold for taking the time to share his thoughts with us all. We hope that you enjoyed reading his answers and exploring his work! 

xx,

Brooke