Jessica Nelson is the co-founder of AI for Interiors, a platform created to help interior designers use AI in ways that truly make their jobs easier. With over 20 years of combined experience in technology and interior design, she brings a unique perspective that connects both worlds. She’s also the co-owner of Etch Design Group, a nationally recognized design firm based in Austin, Texas. Learn more about Jessica and the intersection of her two passions, AI and design, in today’s Designer Friday.
Andrew Joseph: What inspired you to become a designer?
Growing up I always leaned towards anything in the creative realm – painting, drawing, sewing. In my early 20’s, I saw my future sister-in-law building a 3D model online for an interior design client. In that moment I had such a strong feeling that maybe I missed my calling OR that if I didn’t enroll at Texas State and start studying Interior Design I would absolutely miss my calling. So I gave up a great job and enrolled at Texas State. I loved the classes, loved my internship, and more than anything, I loved my study abroad in Florence, Italy. That experience opened me up to art and design in ways I never imagined. And also in ways I call on every day in my design work.
AJ: What design trends do you think will be popular in the coming years?
I think we’re moving away from spaces that feel overly polished and more toward homes that feel deeply personal. Clients want rooms that tell a story, whether it’s about where they’ve traveled, what they love, or how they live day to day. At the same time, technology will quietly play a bigger role behind the scenes. Not in a flashy way (for now!), but in how spaces function like smart lighting, intuitive controls, and design decisions informed by better visualization tools. The goal isn’t to feel “high-tech,” but to feel effortless.
AJ: What is your favorite aspect of your job?
I love mentoring designers and helping them gain confidence in technology, whether that’s through design leadership at Etch or teaching designers how to use AI as a supportive tool rather than something intimidating. Watching people grow into their potential never gets old.
AJ: How do you stay up to date on the latest technology in design?
I stay curious. And I don’t sleep enough, Ha! I test tools constantly, even when I don’t know exactly how, or if, I’ll use them. My background in technology makes me comfortable experimenting and figuring out what actually adds value versus what’s just noise. I also spend a lot of time talking with designers all over the country. Those conversations are often where the most meaningful insights come from. Technology moves quickly, but staying grounded in real workflows and real problems keeps everything practical.
AJ: What would your dream project or dream client be right now?
Right now, my dream project would be a residential project that fully embraces innovation, where design and technology all work together. Something experiential. A “home of the future” concept where we can explore new ways of living without losing top notch design. The dream client is someone who trusts the process, values collaboration, and is open to pushing boundaries thoughtfully.
AJ: What’s a new hobby/skill that you have learned recently?
I’ve been deepening my skills around AI, specifically how to translate complex tools into something approachable and useful for interior designers. Teaching designers how to use AI confidently has become both a professional focus and a personal passion.
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