Luxurious Functionality with Nicole Roe of R. Nickson Interiors

r. nickson interiors kitchen moss green with wallpaper - nicole roe design questionnaire

Creating “elevated spaces through intentional design” is at the root of R Nickson Interiors. Founder Nicole Roe believes that luxury lies in functionality and that each project is all about fulfilling clients’ hopes and needs.

Born and raised in California, Nicole moved to Georgia for college before landing in Central Florida, where she resides today with her husband (a fourth-gen specialty citrus grower) and their four boys. With a degree in construction from Georgia Tech, a full renovation of a lakefront home for her family under her belt, industry experience, and a passion for design, she started her own firm, Nicole Roe Design. In 2022, deciding she’d like her firm to be a place for larger growth, she rebranded as R. Nickson Interiors.

Today, Nicole and R Nickson Interiors work on full-service residential and commercial projects that radiate luxurious functionality. Meet Nicole Roe, the woman behind the firm, in this edition of Love Happens’ Design Questionnaire.


Lh Design Questionnaire with Nicole Roe of R. Nickson Interiors


What is your idea of perfect happiness?

My idea of perfect happiness is rooted in feeling secure and safe, both physically and mentally, with myself and those I love. It’s about being true to who I am and having that authenticity not just accepted but celebrated. I also find happiness in having a voice, but equally in the respect and space to take time alone to process my feelings and dreams.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievement is starting a business with a unique model that doesn’t traditionally fit in a small town, all while raising four incredible boys. I want them to see that women and mothers can create something extraordinary from scratch, using both grit and personal strengths to build a multifaceted business. There were many hard days and long nights, but I always prioritized being there for them—attending their school functions, planning their birthday parties, and going on family adventures. I hope their core memories are of a mom who worked hard, designed and coordinated amazing projects, but was always their biggest fan and supporter.

What profession does your alter ego have?

My alter ego has two very different professions—one as a celebrity chef who opens incredible, experience-based restaurants around the world, and the other as a CIA agent. Despite the contrast, both roles stem from the same core values: hard work, meticulous planning and research, and executing until the final result is achieved. In a way, these aren’t too different from being an interior designer.

The project you will never forget.

I’ll never forget a 14,000 SF commercial space I worked on. When I first walked in, the vibe and energy were so negative, and there were no windows in most of the building. Part of me wanted to walk away, but when the owners gave me the freedom to create not just a killer space but a full brand and personality, I knew it needed a complete revamp. This was an early 2020 project, so there were many hiccups and long lead times, but it also marked a turning point for my company and me. We hired muralists, imported furniture from Europe, and made many on-the-job changes. Now, it’s a space filled with natural light that brings joy to so many people every day.

Your favorite business tool or resource.

My favorite business tool is undoubtedly my network—friends, contractors, subcontractors, vendors, family members, and the local community. There’s never been a problem that someone in my life couldn’t help solve. Treating everyone we work with the utmost respect and leaning on them when needed pays off tenfold. Referrals are always a bonus, but the true value lies in the people we associate with.

The most timeless design.

The most timeless design occurs when real materials are used in their natural state—like wood tones such as walnut and alder, quartzites and marbles, unlacquered brass, and even concrete and glass. When these authentic materials are layered together, regardless of the style, they create a timeless appeal that endures over time.

The biggest design faux pas.

The biggest design faux pas is not designing a space that reflects your true self and lifestyle. Just because a style is popular on social media or widely available doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you. It’s important to design for who you truly are, not for the person you think you should be.

pool design by r nickson interiors

Your design motto.

Start with timeless design, then push the boundaries just enough to surprise.

Our publisher, KOKET, makes statement décor. If you were to design a room around one of their pieces, which would it be, and why?

The Serpentine Pear Mirror from KOKET is a perfect example of how to introduce an element that stirs strong emotions—snakes often elicit either fascination or fear. This snake-inspired mirror can serve as a striking conversation piece, offering a bold contrast to a more classic room. Imagine it layered with moody wallpaper and alabaster sconces. In a powder bathroom, this mirror could transform the space into a delightful surprise, blending timeless elegance with an unexpected twist.

serpentine mirror koket

Love Happens when…

…one truly leans into their authentic self and is confident in their lifestyle and choices.

Explore more from Nicole Roe of R Nickson Interiors

All Photos Courtesy of R Nickson Interiors


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