Influential Woman · Architecture & Interior Design
Jessica Deras
Founder and Principal Designer, Jessica Deras Design Studio
Austin, TX 78717
Her Story
About Jessica
Jessica Deras is an architecture and interior design professional based in Austin, Texas, with a multidisciplinary background spanning design, construction, and international sales. She holds bachelor’s degrees in architecture and interior design and began building her professional career in 2013. She is the Founder and Principal Designer of Jessica Deras Design Studio, where she brings an architectural perspective to residential interiors and creates thoughtfully tailored spaces that reflect the needs and personalities of her clients.
In addition to her design practice, Jessica serves as CEO of OD Construction Group, LLC, where she oversees construction operations and business leadership. She is also the Founder of ArQi, an on-demand architectural production service that connects experienced design professionals with firms needing flexible support in drafting, BIM, and construction documentation. Earlier in her career, Jessica worked as a Regional Sales Manager for Papillon Jewelry Co., developing expertise in international sales, brand ambassadorship, wholesale operations, and sales management.
Jessica’s professional philosophy centers on personalization, authenticity, and meaningful client relationships. Approximately 95 percent of her design work focuses on residential projects, and she believes successful design begins with genuinely listening to clients, understanding their families, lifestyles, spaces, and preferences, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. She credits her success to providing highly personalized service and encourages young women entering the industry to let go of perfectionism, recognize their limits, prioritize intentionally, and maintain balance while pursuing professional excellence.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jessica
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to providing highly personalized service and building genuine connections with each client. I take the time to understand their family, lifestyle, needs, preferences, and the way they use their space rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. By listening carefully and incorporating my expertise while honoring each client’s individuality, I’m able to create results they truly love and enjoy.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is that pursuing excellence does not mean pursuing perfection. I’ve learned to focus my energy on what truly matters, set healthy boundaries, and recognize when something is good enough. Knowing my limits doesn’t mean lowering my standards; it means protecting the energy I need to continue growing and achieving sustainable success.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to trust your instincts, embrace your unique perspective, and don’t be afraid to make your voice heard. Build genuine relationships, stay committed to learning, and remember that success comes from consistency, confidence, and creating work that reflects who you are.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field is balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with personal well-being, family, and leadership while maintaining a high level of performance. At the same time, I see a tremendous opportunity to create highly personalized spaces that reflect how clients genuinely live and feel. By prioritizing authenticity, cultural integrity, and purpose over trends, designers can create meaningful spaces that truly stand the test of time.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are authenticity, family, integrity, creativity, connection, empathy, excellence, and intentionality. I strive to bring these values into my work, leadership, relationships, and personal life while balancing ambition with well-being. I believe the most meaningful work is authentic and purposeful, reflecting who we truly are and creating lasting impact.
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