Our Community

Nelson and Long is a colourful, collaborative, and forward-thinking interior design studio.

Co-founded in 2020 by Alicia Nelson and Jessica Long, Nelson and Long is an award-winning independent studio dedicated to crafting joyful spaces that inspire community and connection.

Built on the belief that great design should be thoughtful, inclusive, beautifully diverse, and holistically enriching, our studio was born out of both passion and necessity—not just for us as founders, but for our vision of the future of living environments. We don’t just design spaces; we curate experiences that nurture happiness and well-being for all who live in or pass through them.

At our core, we believe in the power of community and the magic that unfolds when people come together. Our designs foster connection and collaboration, weaving a sense of belonging into the very fabric of your space.

We are a joyful, positive, and curious team—always seeking inspiration from the bright side of life and infusing that energy into every project we create.

Let’s design spaces that bring people together and spark joy.

  • Alicia Nelson

    CO-FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

    Alicia is a passionate designer with a keen cultural eye for colour, composition, and layering of finishes. With a strong background in commercial design and project management, she brings both creativity and technical expertise to every project. Her detail-driven approach and formal training in interior design allow her to craft transformative yet effortlessly functional spaces.

    She sees and seeks the romantic in the mundane and further explores this through colour psychology, using thoughtful palettes to evoke emotion and enhance the sensory experience of a space. At the heart of her design process is a commitment to creating interiors that are inclusive, inspiring, and deeply attuned to the needs of people. She takes a holistic approach, ensuring each space feels both purposeful and welcoming.

    With an authentic connection to like-minded creatives, an infectious energy, and a collaborative spirit, Alicia plays a leading role in industry relationships and creative partnerships, driving innovation and meaningful design.

  • Jessica Long

    CO-FOUNDER & DESIGN DIRECTOR

    With a background in ceramics and textiles, Jess’s journey into interior design was a natural evolution, leading to a dynamic career across both commercial and residential spaces. As co-founder of Nelson and Long, she brings over 15 years of expertise in the PBSA sector, having witnessed its transformation firsthand and gaining deep insight into the ever-evolving needs of students.

    Jess excels in concept development, product selection, and client collaboration, with an intuitive understanding of finishes and furniture that allows her to craft elevated, thoughtfully curated interiors. A passionate collector and vintage enthusiast, she seamlessly blends repurposed pieces with contemporary design, infusing each project with character, sustainability, and a distinctive sense of style.

    Dedicated to responsible design, Jess integrates environmentally conscious solutions into every space, ensuring beauty and sustainability go hand in hand. Always at the forefront of industry trends, she actively attends exhibitions and conferences, continuously expanding her expertise in student living and design innovation.

  • Steven Haselhurst

    ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST

    As a key member of the Nelson and Long team, Steven brings a wealth of technical expertise and a detail-driven, innovative mindset that allows him to anticipate architectural challenges and seamlessly translate design visions into reality. His experience across both commercial and residential projects enhances his adaptability, equipping him with the versatility to tackle any design challenge with confidence and creativity.

    With a sharp ability to transform concepts and sketches into technically precise, thoughtfully executed layouts, Steven works with both efficiency and meticulous attention to detail. His deep knowledge and methodical approach make him an invaluable asset, ensuring every project is delivered with precision, excellence, and a seamless execution.

‘It's more than just design; it's a celebration of connection, a testament to the power of shared experiences, and a reminder that happiness thrives where community flourishes. We are passionate about helping changemakers who care and want to better the interior experience.’