Meet Virginie A. Nord | Founder & Principal Designer of Studio Tissé

We had the good fortune of connecting with Virginie A. Nord and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Virginie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I was working for an established design studio at the time, but I found myself craving projects and an environment I could more deeply connect with. I wanted the freedom to fully express my creative ideas and to have a more direct, personal relationship with clients. Independence was also a big part of it, I felt ready to take ownership of my vision and trust my instincts. And truthfully, I’ve always been drawn to a challenge, starting my own studio felt like the right kind.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’d like to think that my cultural background and upbringing have shaped both who I am and the essence of my business. Studio Tissé isn’t just about offering interior design services, it’s about human connection. It’s about truly understanding people, tuning in to their stories, and translating that into spaces where they can simply be, places where they feel grounded, inspired, and at home.
The journey to get here wasn’t easy—and truthfully, it’s still unfolding. But that’s part of what excites me: the idea that there’s always more to learn, more to discover, more to refine. Looking back on the past eight years in business, I’ve come to realize that success has so much to do with people. Surrounding yourself with the right team, those who bring their own strengths and story to the table is everything.
Early on, I thought I could (or should) do it all myself. That almost led to burnout. Learning to let go, trust others, and invest in the right collaborators, whether it’s an accountant who truly understands my business or a creative partner to guide my rebrand, has made all the difference. These weren’t always easy decisions financially, but they were necessary ones.
At its heart, my brand is about weaving together the best parts of people, their memories, their values, their curiosities, into something meaningful. That philosophy extends beyond design. I believe any business/brand, when rooted in connection and care, can create something lasting.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We’d start the mornings slow; maybe grabbing pastries from Evergreen Butcher + Baker (they make Kouign-Amann, a specialty from my region in France) or stopping by Unbelievbubble Tea House for their creative bubble teas, since I’m not much of a coffee person. On a sunny day, I’d take us for a walk or a bike ride along the Atlanta BeltLine, stopping to admire the street art, watching skaters do tricks at the O4W park, wander through Ponce City Market, maybe hike up to the rooftop, then duck into The Victorian for some dreamy plant inspiration, or pause at Krog Street Market for a snack and to browse The Merchant.

For meals, I’d guide us through Atlanta’s eclectic food scene; from small plates with a twist at Banshee or the industrial vibe of Two Urban Licks, to the minimalist charm of MF Sushi, tucked away like a secret. Maybe we’d make the trek up to Buford Highway to enjoy traditional dim sum at Canton House; a taste of something I brought home from my time living in China.

In between, we’d explore the High Museum of Art to catch one of their amazing exhibitions, stop by Whitespace Gallery to feel inspired or take a quiet afternoon to visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden and its serene Japanese Garden, or wander the historic grounds of Oakland Cemetery. If my friend loves vintage treasures, we’d carve out time for Antiques & Beyond or walk around Scott Antique Markets if it’s that time of month.

One evening would be reserved for live music, maybe at The Drunken Unicorn or Terminal West, followed by a nightcap at Kimball House, where oysters and absinthe feel like a ritual. Another night might mean catching a film at Plaza Theatre, an old-school indie cinema full of character that sometimes screens French films, or rolling around one of the city’s skate rinks for something more playful.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When I first went out on my own, I leaned heavily on friends and family to help build momentum. Their support, and the support of their communities and neighbors, truly helped me grow. They’ve all been incredibly patient, open to my ideas, and trusting of my vision, which is invaluable when you’re starting a small business.

A big shoutout goes to them. And, of course, to my family—my husband, my sister, my parents, and my mother-in-law in particular—who’ve all been unwavering in their encouragement. They’ve been behind me every step of the way, offering kind words, honest feedback, and so much love. I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

Website: https://www.studiotisse.com

Instagram: @studio_tisse

Other: Studio Tissé’s Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/studiotisse/
Studio Tissé’s Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/user/31yy4ik4xvhv3whag6sr24qua5lm

Image Credits
Tara Carter Photography