In Conversation With Jason Grant

I am always inspired by nature, nostalgia and travel. If things get overwhelming, I always escape into nature. After working for many years in magazines as an interior stylist, I still love hunting out new things. I love a discovery, whether it’s an artist, a book, a maker, a gallery or an interesting space.

Being closer to nature and away from the city has helped me live a more focused and less chaotic work-play life. I lived in Sydney for close to 10 years and needed the escape. I grew up in Melbourne but was born in Launceston, Tasmania, and the first time I came to the Northern Rivers (to shoot my second book with the photographer), it instantly reminded me of my childhood — the bush, the beach and the connection to the land. It felt like home.

My first trip to Japan was love at first sight - the mood, the feeling, the vibe and everything else. It felt instant. I feel so calm, connected, curious and creative in Japan. The fact that the trip came about as the best birthday present ever from my friends for a milestone birthday made it even more special and led to many repeat trips. I love how Japan subtly influences me: to be a better listener, to have patience, to slow down and be observant. I always come back feeling like a better, truer version of myself.

I travel differently and intentionally. I seek out experiences over transactions. I’ll jump on a train and head across town just for a cool bookstore, bar, building or café. I love to research and discover new and exciting things. I enjoy getting away from the crowds and discovering the real Japan on a more local, neighbourhood level. I’m not a fan of doing too much in a day — quality over quantity — and I’ve learnt that no matter how many trips I take, I’ll never see it all. I am constantly searching for the next thing. The app came about from notes on my phone and long lists of things to do and see on future trips. One friend suggested I create a travel guide, another suggested making it an app, and another clever friend helped me bring it to life. It took time, but it has been so worth it. I like doing new things and, after publishing four books, an app felt exciting and like the next evolution of creating. Jason Japan is personal and, on a selfish level, it’s a great place for me to store everything in one place, but it’s also a wonderful guide curated through my lens that I can share with everyone — no gatekeeping. I love updating the app regularly and knowing that everything has been vetted by me for a truly authentic and interesting experience. It has been so well received.

I definitely have a less-is-more approach and have realised there is peace in simplicity. My favourite Japanese film, Perfect Days, is a true reflection of this feeling. I collect things with meaning and love incorporating natural elements into my home. I love objects gathered through travel and exploration that hold sentimental value, as well as art from friends and pieces from small businesses I want to support. My home is a creative expression of me.

Happy Days for coffee and great sandwiches. It’s a place where I always run into someone I know, and it feels like a local hub full of good vibes. Tones for tea, matcha and delicious rice and soba noodle salad bowls. The courtyard is an incredible spot that feels like an escape. Ebiya Japanese Eatery for some of the best Japanese food in the Northern Rivers. When I’m not in Japan, this place makes me miss it a little less. Top Shop for the best burgers in town, and the açai bowls are next level. Kouzina Restaurant, a little slice of Greece in the Northern Rivers and a favourite dinner spot. It really transports you. Pampa for beautiful rugs and textiles. My friends produce and sell handcrafted wares from Argentina that tread lightly on the planet. Lumini, the best-curated Italian vintage design store, run by two cool brothers offering hard-to-find and truly collectible pieces. The Book Room Collective, one of the best bookstores you can find. A great bookstore really is a marker of a great place. Bush Ice Creamery — in Brunswick Heads — for delicious natural ice cream, always with a twist. The ice cream is great, but so are the stories behind the mostly local ingredients. Tigmi Trading, whether sourcing for clients or just window shopping for beautiful things, has a wonderful collection for the home. Loco Love Chocolates — their factory and store are located a little too close to home, and they really do make the best chocolates. Byron Farmers Market occasionally, when I don’t sleep in. Attaboy Pizza for a treat — my favourite pizza spot. Online mentions to Dazed But Amazed for great bed linen and more, and Soft Edge Studio for the most incredible dinnerware.

I love to start my days without rushing, usually with a morning meditation and a big drink of water to begin the day well. I am a creature of habit, so I like to keep things simple no matter what may come across my desk. No day is the same, and I enjoy the variety, whether it’s sourcing and making selections for residential or commercial projects. I always love having a creative project of my own too. I’m always dreaming and manifesting what’s to come next.

Your home should reflect you and be filled with things that you love and cherish — practical items or meaningful objects. There’s no need to fuss over trends; instead, think about comfort and calm. A life as a stylist has often meant collecting things, but lately it has become more about curating and culling. I like the concept of “less but better” for both home and wardrobe, eliminating unnecessary decisions and streamlining day-to-day life.

Luxury is time and space — not needing to rush, buying better and buying less, and enjoying the simple things like good food and good friends. Of course, travel is my ultimate luxury.

I first met Lisa and Jac through friends during my Bondi days, when I was styling and producing shoots for magazines. I’ve always loved the simplicity and ease of the brand and have always been drawn to its colour palette. Jac + Jack feels elevated without too much effort. I’ve had numerous knits, shorts, shirts and t-shirts over the years, and the folded-collar shirt has always been a wardrobe staple.