How did you end up in the design industry?
Looking back I grew up as a kid that was super creative, my brain functioned differently, and I always had a great idea. I attended Georgia Tech with a degree in Building Construction and was obsessed with the entire process of building and designing homes. After a three year internship with a luxury developer in Atlanta I moved to Central Florida and worked with a team of construction companies. I then left, had children, and realized that I could inch my way towards my goal of designing killer spaces. Now I’m over six years into having my design firm.
What does your team look like?
We have a Lead Designer, Designer, Operations Assistant and a Warehouse Assistant.
Tell us about the project you're sharing.
We named this project Courtyard Vibes. It’s a 5,000 square foot, 4 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom courtyard style home. It’s built around a pool in the center of the home. The previous owners of the home had started to renovate but they stopped after demo began, and then it sat vacant for years until our client started their renovation.
What was involved in this project?
This project was already underway when we were brought on board. The demolition had been completed, and the clients had started making design decisions. However, they quickly realized they needed someone with the creativity to make the space truly exceptional and the experience to execute it well.
The clients wanted their home to feel inviting and lived-in rather than like a museum. They desired a space that felt layered over time and was very family-friendly. Our goal was to create impressive spaces with a moody vibe. The home had enough architectural details that some of our design choices could be subtle, allowing those architectural elements to be the focal points. We aimed to balance striking design with the comfort and functionality needed for a family-friendly environment.
What was something you were really excited about creating for this project?
Our favorite part of this project was the flow: the courtyard-style layout wraps around the pool deck, so it’s a central feature of every space. We have two favorite rooms in this project, one of them is the front den. This space could have easily been overlooked or turned into a formal sitting area rarely used, but we transformed it into a moody yet comfortable sitting area that includes a freestanding desk. It’s a versatile space, perfect for working on a laptop, having conversations, or hosting holiday gatherings, all while enjoying the view out the front windows.
Our other favorite room is the primary bathroom, which we turned into a true wellness retreat. We love how the rich wood ceilings envelope the space. The bathroom features a sauna, a freestanding tub, a large shower, dual vanities, and a makeup vanity with a bronze mirror.
What was your biggest learning from this project?
We were really surprised by the community’s excitement and interest. So many people had driven past this home for years wondering what the interior looked like. It was rewarding to see the positive reactions and shared excitement from the community throughout the renovation process.
This was also a project where we were brought in after demo had started and some vendors had been chosen. We felt like we were always playing catch-up but despite these challenges we would gladly do it again for a house as full of character as this one. The experience taught us the importance of flexibility and adaptability in order to achieve a successful and cohesive design.
Is there a tool, tip, or business resource from Hot Young Designers Club that you use in your business?
Yes- The Furnishing Budget Calculator is a great first step always. There are so many tidbits from all the episodes that we love to use.
Thank you Nicole for sharing more about your business and sharing this beautiful home with us! You can visit R. Nickson Interiors on their website or Instagram.
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Photography: Michael Scott Photography
