Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim Nielsen
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
After design school, I began my journey in Atlanta, immersing myself in the city’s sophisticated design scene, rich with inspiration and endless resources. My first solo project was renovating and furnishing my own home, an experience that really fueled my passion for design. I started my own business in 2004 with designing and renovating luxury homes in Atlanta’s historic neighborhoods. I fell in love with classic architecture of Colonial and Tudor homes and the blending of old with new, incorporating reclaimed brick, antique hardware and intricate moldings. With investment partners, we purchased, renovated and sold 12 luxury homes. Fourteen years ago, I moved to Mount Pleasant, SC, where I grasped the Lowcountry lifestyle, shifting to a more coastal, relaxed vibe, which pushed me in a different direction creatively. From furnishing private residences to my clients investment vacation retreat investments across the globe, home staging, and now back to flipping houses, my love for the coast has only deepened, influencing my designs in fresh and exciting ways.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like any entrepreneur, I’ve faced my share of challenges along the way. Overall, I have learned that passion, confidence, and an incredible amount of self-drive create success. I’ve discovered my strengths and weaknesses, and have learned to delegate. I am constantly evolving and pushing myself. Lessons are learned from each project and nothing ever goes perfectly in the design world. I aim to stay authentic and to trust my instincts. Take risks. Live out my dreams, not just think about them. Take those projects that challenge me. It’s the only way to grow, not only as a designer but as a person. One example would be my Bahamas project. It was my first project oversees and I had to research and navigate how I was going to move furnishings across the ocean into customs. It was all new, a battle at times and tested me, but I had to stay confident and it ended up being one of my most favorite jobs.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As an interior designer and real estate entrepreneur, I specialize in transforming luxury homes through flipping, staging, furnishing private residences, as well as furnishing turnkey vacation retreats for client’s investments around the world. I put my heart and soul into everything I do. Design is felt, not just seen. My design philosophy is all about creating with purpose and intention. Every space I create is meant to evoke emotion and inspire desire while incorporating little luxuries into everyday living.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Sometimes as a creative we get burned out. It’s so important to stay inspired! I travel often and surround myself within the design communities around the world and immerse myself in other cultures. You can see that in my designs. From Charleston, to Los Angeles, Palm Beach, and New York City to London, connections are everything. Being so knowledgeable and having been in this industry for 20 plus years, I’ve learned to recognize my worth and the value I bring.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kimnielseninteriors.com
- Instagram: @kimnielseninteriors
- Facebook: Kim Nielsen Interiors
