Designer Friday: An aspire Exclusive Interview With Theresa Butler

Theresa Butler’s passion for interior design stems from her desire to create spaces that are a reflection of her client’s personality and lifestyle. A native Nashvillian with an MS in nurse anesthesia, interior design has been Theresa’s calling since she was 12 years old, and the pandemic ignited her desire to change careers and get back to spending more of her time doing what she loves! Theresa Butler Interiors was born from a vision of cultivating valued relationships with clients through respect, trust, and confidence to deliver beautiful designs under a variety of budgets, styles, timeframes, and requirements. Theresa guides her clients through every phase of the design process for an end result of sophistication with a traditional modern flare. Though Theresa has developed a successful career in interior design, her work extends beyond her business to give back to her community through charitable auctions of her custom-made decorative pillows, crafting blankets for hospice patients, and more. Her dedication to her community and unwavering commitment to spreading kindness and compassion is a testament to the transformative power of art. See more of Theresa’s creative designs in today’s Designer Friday.

Playful patterns and vibrant hues bring this cozy nook to life, creating a joyful space for work and rest.

Andrew Joseph: How do you approach a new design project?
Theresa Butler: We always set clear expectations and over-communicate, while creating realistic timelines with room for unforeseen setbacks. If the project is completed before promised, we look even better. The TBI team prides itself on keeping clients informed during every phase of the project.

AJ: Can you tell us about a design trend you are excited about?
TB: I’m excited about chocolate coming back. I love the richness of chocolate and think it pairs beautifully with so many other colors.

AJ: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as a designer?
TB: Never compare, there is space for your point of view.

A bold mix of colors and patterns energizes this inviting living space.

AJ: What design trends do you think will be popular in the coming years?
TB: Wallpaper is making a massive comeback and I’m here for it! I can’t get enough of beautiful statement wallpaper with bold colors. Corduroy upholstery is making its debut along with a rise of organic shapes and natural materials.

AJ: What is your favorite place to find inspiration?
TB: My inspiration often arises during my travels. I’m fascinated by diverse cultures and enjoy integrating cultural elements into my designs. Architecture serves as a wellspring of ideas for me, whether it’s through colors or shapes that spark creativity. I have a deep passion for horticulture and botany, frequently incorporating painted leaves and flowers into my sketches and artworks. Occasionally, I’ll design a room around a single large painted flower.

AJ: What is your favorite design element to incorporate into your projects?
TB: I love to incorporate beautiful ceramics and pottery. Supporting local artists and incorporating their craftsmanship adds a unique charm.

Wrapped in a rich, monochromatic green, this office blends modern flair with enhanced focus and clarity, creating a serene and productive retreat

AJ: How do you stay organized while working on multiple projects?
TB: My operations manager, Honeybook and I’m old school, I still make to-do lists… Thanks, Mom.

AJ: If you weren’t a designer, what would you be and why?
TB: I’m pretty sure I’d be a National Geographic photographer. I’m an avid NatGeo reader and collector. My earliest issue was published in 1927 and I’m still hunting for the first issue published in 1888. I’ve collected so many issues that I designed and decorated an office using the glorious yellow issues (also my favorite color) as the inspiration.

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