Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Watson.
Emily, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I didn’t plan to fall in love with renovation—but once I did, I never looked back.
In 2011, I wanted to buy my first home, but couldn’t afford it. I eventually found a beat-up foreclosure with so much potential. What started as a leap of faith turned into a calling. I got into the house and worked tirelessly to transform it. From that moment, I fell in love with the transformation that renovating brings.
Years later I turned my love of design and renovating into a full-fledged business: This Whole House. Today, I work with families and homeowners to reimagine spaces from the inside out—whether it’s a full renovation, a design refresh, or hands-on project management.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Renovations, by. nature, are stressful! They’re expensive and you’re dealing with a client’s hopes and dreams. I’d say the character trait of being organized, proactive, and communicative have helped me succeed. Getting to know people and connecting with them helps! One of my biggest challenges was getting my builders license. It was difficult to run my business, be a mom, and also make studying and preparing for the exam a priority. It was several months of LONG days. But it paid off!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I moved from NJ to Charleston, SC, where I earned my degree in Elementary Education (plus a Spanish minor!) from The College of Charleston. I went from school teacher to contractor and brought my love of people and connection to everything I do—whether it’s managing a team, designing a kitchen, or helping a client find their style.
I received my Design Degree from the New York Institute of Art and Design as well as a Residential Home Builder’s license because I never wanted to turn down a project for lack of skill or knowledge!
“I have a very boutique style business where I meet with clients, design the project, and implement it from start to finish. The buck stops with me! Clients only have to communicate with one person. I take pride and ownership of the design and aesthetic just as much as doing it correctly!”
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My parents, my children, and my friends have been incredible cheerleaders. They never tell me I can’t achieve a goal that I dream up. I have my clients to thank as well. They trust me with a large sum of money and all of their hopes & dreams to make their vision come to life!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thiswholehouse.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/this_whole_house/?hl=en
