Welcome to The Landlord Show with Tim Harstead! Today, we're thrilled to have Robin Nicole from Robin Nicole Interiors join us to share some expert insights into the ever-evolving world of interior design.
Tim Harstead: Welcome to the show, Robin. How are you today?
Robin Nicole: Good, good. Thank you so much, Tim, for having me. I'm very happy to be here today.
Tim: Awesome! So, Robin, could you start by telling our listeners a little bit about yourself and your company?
Robin: Sure, I’d love to. I've been in the industry for 15 years, specializing in luxury residential, commercial design, retail, and currently, office design. My projects range from small scale to very large scale. I focus on meeting clients, understanding their needs, and delivering beyond their expectations.
Tim: That sounds fantastic! Now, for our listeners who are investors possibly considering hiring an interior designer for a rehab project, what advice would you give them?
Robin: Hiring an interior designer is crucial, especially for those who are new to real estate investments. An interior designer does more than select paint colors or fabrics; we act as project managers. We ensure everything is accounted for, work closely with architects, manage contractors, and conduct frequent site visits to ensure that everything is being implemented as designed.
Tim: What are some common mistakes you’ve seen contractors make that you’ve had to fix?
Robin: Great question. Once, during a gut and rehab of a bathroom in Chicago, I specified large tiles to make the space appear grander. Due to a language barrier, the contractor misunderstood the layout, which could have compromised the design. Luckily, because of the detailed CAD drawings and regular communication, I was able to guide him correctly before it was too late.
Tim: That's a perfect example of why good communication is so critical. Now, for those dealing with smaller spaces, particularly in older buildings, what are some tips for making those areas appear larger?
Robin: To make a small space look bigger, consider larger tiles and place them vertically to elongate the space. In places like New York, where ceiling height is available but floor space is limited, building upward with custom shelving is effective. Also, refurbishing existing fixtures, like sanding and painting old cabinetry and adding new hardware, can significantly enhance the space without the need for a complete overhaul.
Tim: Those are incredibly useful tips, Robin. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us today.
Robin: It’s been a pleasure, Tim. Thank you for having me.
Tim: And thank you to our listeners for tuning in. We hope you found these insights helpful for your next project. Stay tuned for more expert advice on property management and real estate investment on The Landlord Show.
