Inspiring Conversations with Nicolle Valencia of Nicolle Valencia Interiors

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicolle Valencia.

Hi Nicolle, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve had a love for decorating. I used to spend hours rearranging my bedroom, flipping through home magazines, and cutting out pictures of furniture and décor to create my own interior design collages. I’d even ask my mom if I could move things around in our family home—just for fun! Looking back, it’s clear I was always drawn to design. I didn’t know exactly what it would look like as a career, but I knew it would be something creative.

But, as life often does, it took me on a different path. I ended up becoming a bookkeeper and eventually opened my own tax and bookkeeping business right here in downtown Raleigh. I was good at it, and I’m grateful for that chapter—it taught me a lot. But deep down, I knew something was missing. I felt like I was silencing my artistic side, and I couldn’t ignore that feeling for too long.

Everything shifted in 2015, shortly after I married my husband, Luis Valencia, who owns Profinishes NC, a local remodeling company. I started helping him manage projects and quickly found myself offering design advice to his clients. To my surprise, people really appreciated my input—and that lit a fire in me. What started as small design suggestions turned into something much bigger.

I decided to invest in myself and took several interior design courses, as well as learning how to use drafting and design software. It was the best decision. In 2018, I began sharing our home renovation projects—and our clients’—on social media. The reactions and support from the community were incredible. Seeing how people responded to the transformations, the before-and-afters—it was all so inspiring and affirmed that I was finally doing what I was meant to do.

Today, I offer interior design services to our Raleigh community and its surroundings. I also manage the design for our fixer-upper investment properties. It’s been such a journey, blending creativity, construction, and heart. And I feel so lucky to be able to do what I love right here in Raleigh.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all—it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. As a full-time mom, it was challenging to fully dedicate myself to interior design, especially when my kids were younger. For a long time, I found myself juggling both roles, constantly switching between being present for my children and nurturing my passion for design.

Now that my kids are a bit older—7 and 9—I’ve found a much better balance. It’s allowed me the space and focus to pursue interior design full time. It’s still challenging, of course, but incredibly rewarding. Being able to pour my creativity into my work while also being present for my family has made the journey even more meaningful.

We’ve been impressed with Nicolle Valencia Interiors , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Nicolle Valencia Interiors is a proudly family-owned business serving both residential and commercial interior design clients. While we specialize in remodeling design, we also offer services for new builds and full-service interior design. Whether it’s refreshing a single space or managing an entire project from start to finish, we aim to bring thoughtful, curated design to every client.

What truly sets us apart is our timeless aesthetic, which blends effortlessly with a variety of design styles. Our work is always tailored to reflect our clients’ personal tastes and needs. Clients often describe our designs as fresh, organic, and refined—striking a balance between comfort and elegance.

We offer a wide range of services, from initial consultations and space planning to furnishing, decorating, and full project management. For those needing more focused help, we provide specialized services like color palette development, lighting design, and even virtual design solutions through our online offerings.

What I’m most proud of brand-wise is the trust we’ve built with our clients and the personalized experience we provide. At Nicolle Valencia Interiors, it’s more than just design—it’s about creating spaces that feel like home.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Absolutely—there are several people who deserve credit for helping me get to where I am today. First and foremost, my husband Luis has played a huge role. He really opened the door for me to express my creativity by introducing me to his clients and encouraging me to take on design opportunities when I was just getting started. His belief in my talent gave me the confidence to pursue this path more seriously.

I also wouldn’t be here without the unwavering support of my family and friends. They’ve been my biggest cheerleaders from day one—always encouraging me, celebrating my wins, and reminding me that this is exactly what I’m meant to do. Their faith in me has meant everything.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nicollevalenciainteriors.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicollevalenciainteriors
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicollevalenciainteriors