We sat down with Austin interior designer Jessica Love of Urbane Design to discuss kitchen design, bathroom remodeling trends, and what homeowners should consider when renovating homes in Austin. This Q&A offers professional insight into how design and construction work together to create functional, timeless spaces.
About Jessica Love
Jessica Love is an interior designer known for translating her clients’ individuality into thoughtful, expressive spaces. A Sam Houston State University graduate with a B.S. in Interior Design, she learned the rules early—so she could break them with intention. With 18 years of experience, Jessica prioritizes personality over trends, earning a loyal client base who value her creativity, transparency, and effortless design process.
She believes a well-designed home builds confidence and extends that belief into her community through nonprofit work. Jessica serves on the board of Ten Thousand Villages, supports Austin Habitat for Humanity through her SXSW Open Door Showcase, and founded the nonprofit Design Changes Lives, dedicated to creating empowering spaces for children.
What’s your background, and how did interior design become the path you chose?
That’s a great question, and honestly, it feels like interior design chose me long before I chose it.
I went to school formally for interior design, and I have been practicing for twenty one years now, but my relationship with space started much earlier than that. Even as a kid, I was deeply aware of my surroundings, how rooms felt, how light moved, where people naturally gathered, and where they did not. I was always rearranging furniture, instinctively trying to make spaces feel calmer, safer, and more grounded.
I think that awareness came from a very human place. For me, space has always been about creating safety, emotional safety as much as physical comfort. I noticed how certain environments could either hold you or unsettle you, and I became fascinated with the idea that design could actually support people in their everyday lives in a quiet but powerful way.
When I discovered interior design as a discipline, it felt like language finally caught up with intuition. Design gave structure to something I had always felt instinctively, how proportion, material, color, and flow can shape not just how a space looks, but how it functions and how it makes you feel.
Over the years, that foundation has evolved into what Urbane Design represents today. Thoughtful, intentional spaces that balance beauty with livability. I am still driven by that same core idea, creating environments that feel grounded, elevated, and deeply supportive of the people who inhabit them. At the end of the day, good design is not about trends. It is about understanding humans and creating spaces that allow them to breathe, connect, and truly feel at home.
"At the end of the day, good design is not about trends. It is about understanding humans and creating spaces that allow them to breathe, connect, and truly feel at home."
What kind of projects really energize you creatively?
What really energizes me creatively are projects that begin and end with people. People are my greatest source of inspiration. Every client brings a different story, rhythm, history, and way of moving through the world, and I find that endlessly compelling.
I am most energized when I get to truly understand who someone is, not just how they want a space to look, but how they live, how they rest, how they gather, and what they need in order to feel supported in their environment. Those insights become the creative spark. Design, for me, is never about imposing a signature style. It is about translating a person’s inner world into a physical one.
Projects that allow for depth and collaboration are especially fulfilling. When clients are open to the process, to conversation, to reflection, and even to a little vulnerability, the work becomes richer. I love designing spaces that respond to real life, homes that evolve with families, commercial spaces that reflect the people behind the brand, environments that feel intentional rather than performative.
At the core of it all, I am energized by the emotional resonance of a project. When a space truly fits someone, when it feels like a natural extension of who they are, that is when the design comes alive. That human connection is what fuels my creativity and keeps the work meaningful after all these years.
"Design, for me, is never about imposing a signature style. It is about translating a person’s inner world into a physical one."
Are there any design choices you feel will stand the test of time, and others you think people may rethink in a few years?
I really believe that the design choices that stand the test of time are the ones rooted in what people genuinely love. When a choice is made because it resonates deeply with someone, because it reflects their values, memories, or sense of comfort, it tends to endure far beyond any trend cycle.
Timeless design, to me, is personal. It is about materials that age gracefully, layouts that support real living, and details that feel intentional rather than reactive. When people choose things because they feel right in their bodies and in their lives, those spaces rarely feel dated. They feel lived in, layered, and authentic.
On the other hand, the choices people often rethink a few years down the line are the ones driven by outside noise. Designs that are heavily influenced by trends, social media, or what feels impressive in the moment can lose their relevance quickly if they are not aligned with the person using the space. When something is chosen for approval rather than connection, it tends to have a shorter lifespan.
I always encourage clients to slow down and ask themselves what they truly love, not what they think they should love. When design decisions come from that place, the space evolves with them instead of needing to be constantly reinvented. That is where longevity really lives.
"When something is chosen for approval rather than connection, it tends to have a shorter lifespan."
What are some common challenges you see that can unintentionally slow down or complicate a project?
One of the most common challenges I see that can unintentionally slow down or complicate a project is indecision. When decisions are delayed or revisited repeatedly, it creates a ripple effect that impacts timelines, ordering, and ultimately the overall momentum of a project. Design is a layered process, and each decision builds on the last, so hesitation at one stage can stall everything that follows.
Another big factor is not being clear on budget from the beginning. When expectations and financial parameters are not aligned early on, it can lead to redesigns, substitutions, or difficult conversations later in the process. A clear budget is not a limitation, it is a framework that allows creativity to function efficiently and intentionally.
Scope creep is another challenge I see often. Projects naturally evolve, but when the scope of work increases without proper planning or recalibration, it can strain timelines, budgets, and even relationships. Adding rooms, details, or custom elements without adjusting expectations can quickly complicate what was once a manageable project.
This is exactly why working with a professional designer is so important. A designer helps bring clarity to the process from the very beginning. We guide decision making, establish realistic budgets, define scope, and anticipate challenges before they become problems. We act as both creative partner and strategic manager, keeping the project grounded, cohesive, and moving forward.
Ultimately, a professional designer helps protect the integrity of the vision while balancing the practical realities of time, cost, and execution. That guidance not only streamlines the process, it creates a more enjoyable experience and a far better outcome for everyone involved.
"A clear budget is not a limitation, it is a framework that allows creativity to function efficiently and intentionally."
What does great collaboration between a designer and contractor look like to you?
To me, great collaboration between a designer and a contractor starts with alignment on values. When we are aligned on integrity, collaboration, communication, and trust, everything else flows more smoothly. Those shared principles create a foundation where challenges can be addressed openly and solutions can be found without ego.
Clear and consistent communication is essential. A strong designer contractor relationship is one where information is shared early and often, questions are welcomed, and potential issues are discussed proactively rather than reactively. When both parties respect each other’s expertise and remain in constant dialogue, the project benefits at every stage.
True collaboration means working as a team rather than in silos. It is about problem solving together, supporting one another, and staying flexible while still honoring the original intent of the design. When designers and contractors see each other as partners, not obstacles, the work becomes more efficient and far more enjoyable.
Most importantly, great collaboration always puts the client first. Every decision, adjustment, and recommendation should be made with the client’s best interest in mind. When trust exists between the designer and contractor, the client feels that confidence as well. That trust creates a calmer process, a stronger outcome, and ultimately a project that reflects care, craftsmanship, and respect from start to finish.
"When designers and contractors see each other as partners, not obstacles, the work becomes more efficient and far more enjoyable."
Are people favoring statement kitchens or more understated designs?
At the moment, I would say statement kitchens are definitely trending, but what is interesting is how much that idea has evolved. Today’s statement kitchen is not just about bold aesthetics. Organization and function are really at the forefront.
People want kitchens that make an impact visually, but they also want them to work beautifully. We are seeing thoughtful storage solutions, highly considered layouts, and details that support how people actually cook, gather, and live in these spaces. The statement is often made through intentional choices like materials, lighting, or a strong focal element, rather than excess.
What I love about this shift is that it reflects a deeper understanding of design. A kitchen can be expressive and still feel calm, efficient, and grounded. When function leads the design, the visual impact feels more meaningful and lasting. Ultimately, the most successful statement kitchens are the ones that balance beauty with purpose. They feel elevated, personal, and well organized, and they support daily life just as much as they impress visually.
"Ultimately, the most successful statement kitchens are the ones that balance beauty with purpose. They feel elevated, personal, and well organized, and they support daily life just as much as they impress visually."
What bathroom trends feel like they’ll age well?
Bathroom designs that age well always come back to the essentials. Lots of storage to keep the space calm and functional, a strong and intuitive layout that supports daily routines, and plenty of natural light. When those elements are prioritized, the bathroom feels effortless and enduring, regardless of changing trends.
At what point is it too late to change design direction?
In our process, we really encourage the scope of work and overall design direction to be determined early on. That clarity at the beginning sets the foundation for a smooth and successful project.
Once we begin the bidding process with contractors, it is generally too late to make significant design changes without impacting the schedule and budget. At that stage, drawings, specifications, and pricing are all aligned to a specific scope, and changes can quickly create delays, cost increases, and confusion.
That is why we place so much emphasis on thoughtful planning and decision making upfront. Taking the time early on allows clients to feel confident in the direction, and it helps protect the integrity of the project once it is in motion. Clear decisions early lead to a more efficient process and a far better experience overall.
Where do homeowners most underestimate costs?
Homeowners most often underestimate costs when it comes to scope creep and changes made along the way. Even small additions or adjustments can have a much bigger financial impact than people expect once a project is already underway.
When the scope expands beyond what was originally planned, it often affects multiple layers of the project, from labor and materials to timelines and coordination. Similarly, design changes made after decisions are finalized can require rework, reordering, or renegotiation, all of which add cost.
This is why clarity and commitment early in the process are so important. A well defined scope helps keep budgets realistic and projects moving smoothly, while minimizing surprises that can quickly add up.
Are there certain neighborhoods in Austin that shape design decisions more than others?
Yes, certain neighborhoods in Austin do influence design decisions, but I think it is less about prestige and more about context. Every neighborhood has its own history, scale, and rhythm, and good design responds to that rather than trying to override it.
Things like lot size, architectural language, natural light, mature trees, and even how people live in those areas naturally shape the way a home should function and feel. Older neighborhoods might call for more restraint and respect for original details, while newer areas often allow for a bit more flexibility in layout and expression.
For me, the goal is always to design something that feels appropriate to its surroundings and authentic to the people living there. It is not about designing for a neighborhood’s reputation. It is about listening to the site, the home, and the client, and letting those elements guide the design in a thoughtful and grounded way.
Are there finishes you actively discourage because they don’t age well in Texas?
In Texas, climate definitely plays a role in how well certain finishes age, but I try to approach this with nuance rather than hard rules. For example, solid wood flooring can be more sensitive to our heat and humidity swings, which can lead to movement over time. That does not mean it is always the wrong choice, but it does mean it requires thoughtful consideration.
What has changed is how much better homes can be built and sealed today. With proper HVAC design, humidity control, and a well sealed building envelope, many materials that were once considered risky can perform much better long term. It becomes less about completely discouraging a finish and more about understanding the conditions it will live in.
My role is to help clients weigh lifestyle, maintenance expectations, and performance in our climate. When finishes are chosen with intention and supported by good construction practices, they can age beautifully even in Texas. The key is making informed decisions rather than following assumptions or blanket advice.
If you had to predict one design direction that will grow this year in Austin, what would it be?
If I had to predict one design direction that will continue to grow this year in Austin, it would be more intention. People are becoming far more thoughtful about how and why they design their spaces.
I am seeing a shift away from designing for show and toward designing for real life. Clients want spaces that support their routines, values, and well being. That shows up in smarter layouts, purposeful material choices, and homes that feel calm, grounded, and personal rather than overly styled.
This move toward intention is about quality over quantity and meaning over excess. When design decisions are made with clarity and purpose, the result feels more authentic and lasting. I think that mindset will continue to shape Austin homes in a really positive way.
What design choices deliver the most impact without blowing the budget?
It really depends on the home and the people living in it, so there is no one size fits all answer. That said, the biggest impact usually comes from improving how a space functions and feels. Thoughtful layouts, good lighting, and cohesive material choices go a long way without requiring a huge budget.
Often, restraint and clear priorities make the biggest difference. When decisions are intentional and aligned with how someone actually lives, the space feels elevated regardless of budget.
What is the absolute best advice you would give to a young designer who just started out?
The best advice I would give to a young designer just starting out is to get a mentor. You cannot and do not have to do everything on your own. Having someone who has been through the process can save you time, mistakes, and a lot of unnecessary stress.
I would also say, get out and talk to people. Build relationships, ask questions, and be curious. This industry is as much about connection as it is about design. The more you engage with others, the more you will learn, and the more confident you will become.
Design is a long game. Support, guidance, and community make all the difference.
For someone planning a remodel in Austin this year, what’s one piece of advice you’d give them?
For anyone planning a remodel in Austin this year, my biggest piece of advice is to do your research and take your time building the right team. Ask hard questions, interview several designers and contractors, and really pay attention to how people communicate with you during that process.
You want to hire a team that knows how to collaborate, that is transparent, and that you genuinely trust. Remodeling is a long and often complex journey, and the experience matters just as much as the final result. When you choose professionals who communicate clearly and work well together, the process becomes smoother, more predictable, and far more enjoyable.
From the Prime Construction Team
When planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation, hearing from experienced local designers can help homeowners better understand layout, materials, and long-term functionality. Thoughtful planning on both the design and construction side plays an important role in successful remodeling projects throughout Austin.
"When you choose professionals who communicate clearly and work well together, the process becomes smoother, more predictable, and far more enjoyable."
Urbane Design Contact Information
Urbane Design
www.urbanedesignstudios.com
O 512-522-6035
C 832-597-4936