The challenge with finding an office space was that we either found 300 Square feet (SF) or 5,000 SF. We only needed 1,000SF. The other things we were looking for was to be located in or near Nashville’s Design District and tons of natural light. Our Interior Design firm teamed up with our favorite architects at Four Square Design Studio and we decided to go in together to create one great Design Studio! We took 2 Office spaces and tore down 3 major walls in between. The existing office had horrible gray carpet that could hide all the murder stains. It also had fluorescent lighting and 2 different ceiling grids ( from the different offices). While we did love the windows, the lighting definitely had to go! With all the drawing we do, we need a cleaner LED light source. We ended up with a whole new grid and LED cans that we can change the color temperature.
For the flooring we used a LVT (luxury Vinyl Tile) that would be light weight in this commercial setting and very durable. Then we gave the walls a fresh look with Sherwin Williams, Pure White and then using the same color on the trim but a brighter sheen. We needed the color to be a backdrop to all that goes into a Design Studio and not to compete with it. Once the shell of our new office was redesigned and built, we then moved the designing the custom Kitchenette situated near our client in-take area and out conference Room. While we didn't have the option to pull plumbing in and having a sink, we did plan for a fridge, cabinet storage, trash pullout, paper towel pullout, and a wall cabinet with pocket doors to hide appliances. We went with a Vadera Quartz countertop and solid backsplash and then added floating shelves made by one of our favorite cabinet guys, Seth Brown Cabinets. He is truly an artist and was able to get the stain to compliment our floors. For the cabinetry we chose a deep green for the base and then kept the wall cabinet light and close to the creamy color of the fridge.
We designed a small seating area that we could have a brief meeting with a client or vendor, catch a phone call, or simply to gibe off a welcoming vibe to people coming in. We used upholstery from Lee Industries, we found the coffee table at Highpoint market from Alder and Tweed, and the rest was filled from local findings. The room will evolve with new inspirations and findings.
The Resource Library features Ikea bookcases with customized hardware, clear containers in drawers for samples, woven baskets holding various materials, and a custom-built work table/island. Large client project trays are stored on shelves from West Elm. On the window wall across from the Bookcases, we hung two metal floating shelves that we use S-hooks to hang rugs from. We also use the shelves to showcase materials we are inspired by and hope to use in upcoming projects.
Between all the desks we wanted a central seating area for collaboration, small meetings, coffee breaks, and end of day cocktails! We took these four leather chairs and grounded them with a small leather hide rug. The conference room we enclosed with a glass wall and doors. It keeps the space light and is the perfect place to present to our clients or meet with contractors, reps, and other trades.
We share our Studio space with friends and Architects Andrew Heideman and Brad Sayers with Four Square Design Studio. While we are separate companies, we do feel that our clients and contractors benefit from the collaboration we have together and our Studio gives our clients a design power house! We also make sure to have a lot of fun! We have really enjoyed working here and our clients have liked the new space too! Looking forward to all that the future holds for this Design Studio and our collaboration.
