After Stephanie Alderman completed a full home redesign with Tanya Hembree and the team at Onyx & Alabaster, her office on Music Row suddenly felt dull and uninspired by comparison.
A partner with Farris, Self & Moore, Alderman needed the space to reflect her role as a music industry executive, while also serving as a place that fosters creativity, confidence, and connection throughout the workday.
“It was important to understand that she is balancing focusing on details and hosting artists in her office,” Hembree said. “Because she’s a female music industry executive, the balance of femininity, strength, and professionalism were key factors in discerning the right path forward.”
Hembree struck that balance by blending edge with professionalism, introducing a modern design layered with texture, contrast, and personality.
“We took her preference for modern, the artist environment of edgy, and her love for color and blended those with some inspiration from her tour posters and personal preferences for animal prints and hide,” Hembree said. “Keeping it respectful, classy, yet with an industry style was the design-dance.”
Petrified wood tables, sculptural lighting, and statement wallpaper anchor the space, while thoughtful styling softens the overall look.
“I think the wallpaper and the hide were the items most uncomfortable for her. She trusted the process and knew all the selected pieces together were the vibe she was after, and that the look would not be complete without them.”
The result is a one-room transformation that feels both elevated and approachable — proof that even a small footprint can deliver a big design moment.
“Where we work is extremely important to the way we feel, perform, and create,” Hembree said. “We often spend more waking hours in our work environments than we do at home. So, surrounding yourself in a space that is peaceful, orderly, balanced, while well-designed is essential for feeling good about showing up 100% each day. We’ve seen that a well-designed workspace inspires creativity, nurtures community within the culture, and most importantly allows for productivity.”
Furniture & Styling
A tailored mix of seating and sculptural forms gives the office a residential feel while maintaining executive polish. A channel-tufted velvet sofa introduces richness and comfort, while a bouclé accent chair adds softness and texture. Petrified wood tables bring organic contrast, and layered styling—books, vessels, and natural elements—create a collected, lived-in atmosphere.
Lighting
Lighting is both functional and expressive. A dramatic arc floor lamp adds architectural presence, while softer ambient sources introduce warmth. The layered approach ensures the space feels inviting throughout the day without sacrificing performance.
Color
The palette is grounded in warm neutrals, with tones of cream, taupe, and charcoal. Rich accents of deep green and subtle blue hues add depth, while hints of brass bring warmth and refinement.
Design Statements
A chinoiserie-inspired wallpaper establishes a strong focal point, adding movement and narrative. A round mirror with a radial frame reinforces the room’s geometry, while curved furniture silhouettes soften the overall composition.
