In this series, we spotlight the visionaries behind thoughtfully crafted homes — from interior designers to builders and beyond. We dive into their creative process, uncovering the inspiration, collaboration, and craftsmanship that bring each project to life.
At Textures, our most meaningful projects are born from collaboration. We’re drawn to partners who value thoughtful design, clear communication, and the quiet details that make a space feel intentional. Powell Nashville is absolutely one of those partners.
Known throughout the city for shaping some of Nashville’s most iconic hospitality spaces, Powell’s work extends far beyond restaurants and hotels. Their residential arm brings the same level of care, craftsmanship, and process-driven thinking to custom homes and large-scale renovations across the region. We sat down with Chad Roberts to talk about his path into design-build, his approach to construction, and why collaboration sits at the heart of every project.
A Foundation Built Early
Chad’s interest in building began long before Powell Nashville existed. From a young age, he was fascinated by real estate, entrepreneurship, and the way spaces come together, not just aesthetically, but practically. His early experience working for his uncle’s subcontracting company gave him a hands-on education in craftsmanship, coordination, and the realities of running a business.
That foundation led him into residential construction, where he spent years as a project manager for a local custom builder. There, he gained a deep understanding of the full lifecycle of a home and the importance of collaboration with clients and designers. Over time, that experience, paired with his interest in development, naturally evolved into pursuing a general contractor’s license and building the partnership that became Powell Nashville. Each step helped shape the firm’s approach today, one rooted in thoughtful design, strong execution, and a deep respect for the building process.
Design Without a Signature Style
Rather than defining Powell Nashville by a single aesthetic, Chad describes their work as “client driven.” Every project is approached as its own story. “Our goal is to create spaces that feel intentional, authentic, and reflective of how our clients want to live or work rather than imposing a specific aesthetic,” expresses Chad. That flexibility allows each home or space to feel authentic and reflective of how people actually live and work.
Rather than defining Powell Nashville by a single aesthetic, Chad describes their work as “client driven.” Every project is approached as its own story. “Our goal is to create spaces that feel intentional, authentic, and reflective of how our clients want to live or work rather than imposing a specific aesthetic,” expresses Chad. That flexibility allows each home or space to feel authentic and reflective of how people actually live and work.
Collaboration as a Core Value
With architecture and interiors in-house, Powell Nashville has a unique perspective on the design process. That insight allows their team to clearly interpret drawings, specifications, and objectives, and communicate seamlessly with outside architects, designers, and trade partners.
Chad notes, “We’re especially drawn to projects that invite collaboration.” These are the projects where problem-solving, creativity, and craftsmanship intersect in meaningful ways.
The Return of Depth and Warmth
When it comes to design trends, Powell Nashville is embracing a return to darker woods and richer textures. These deeper tones bring warmth, mood, and a sense of grounding to a space. Whether used in flooring, millwork, stairs, or ceiling applications, darker woods add depth and character while remaining timeless. The imperfect texture and natural variation create environments that feel layered, inviting, and lived in. For Chad and his team, these materials strike a balance between elevated design and approachability.
Balancing Timeless Design and Trends
“When it comes to trends, the key is restraint.”
– Chad Roberts
Powell Nashville begins every residential project with a deep dive alongside the design team, ensuring that trend-forward elements support the long-term vision of the home rather than defining it. Chad remarks, “classic design endures for a reason,” and their goal is always to create spaces that feel relevant today and decades from now.
Partnering with Textures
Powell Nashville has partnered with Textures across a wide range of projects, including Powell’s own, new headquarters in Berry Hill, where thoughtful design guided every decision. A wide white oak plank installed in a custom parquet pattern brought warmth, character, and a sense of craftsmanship to the space.
Beyond that project, our collaboration has extended to hospitality and commercial work throughout the city, with each project presenting its own set of goals and challenges. Chad notes that what draws their team to Textures time and again is the depth of knowledge, level of service, and collaborative approach Andrew [Textures Founder] and the team bring to every conversation.
Chad comments, “Their showroom is an incredible resource and a welcoming environment to bring clients—whether we’re viewing samples, discussing options, or diving deep into the nuances of hardwood selection.”
From a builder’s perspective, flooring and millwork play a significant role in shaping how a project looks and feels. These elements represent both a substantial investment and a defining visual component, which is why Powell Nashville approaches them thoughtfully and collaboratively, balancing beauty, durability, and budget.
That shared mindset is what makes our partnership work. We value Powell Nashville for their clarity, craftsmanship, and respect for the process. It’s a collaboration built on trust, and one that consistently results in spaces that feel thoughtful, grounded, and beautifully executed.
If you value intentional design, experienced leadership, and a partner who understands both the creative and technical sides of building, Powell is currently planning residential projects for the months ahead.
Interested in learning more or inquiring about availability?
Get in touch with their team at chad@powellnashville.com or brandon@powellnashville.com.
Textures projects with Powell Nashville — from left to right, Fender, The Russell Hotel, Audrey, Greenery Co.
All photography by Emily Dorio.
