Today we’d like to introduce you to Christal Gines.
Hi Christal, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my interior design business in 2022. I had been a hairstylist for over 17 years, but in 2021 I became pregnant with my daughter and had to go on bed rest. During that time, my best friend bought a house and asked me to help her design a media wall, choose colors and finishes for her kitchen, and furnish the entire home.
(I remember my husband had told me years before that I should pursue a career in interior design.)
So, we did it—and in the meantime, I completed an online Interior Design Diploma. When the project was finished and they had moved in, she texted me one day and said, “You might kill me, but on the neighborhood group chat someone asked if anyone could recommend an interior designer, and I shared photos of my house and your IG handle.”
I remember that day clearly—more than 10 people DM’d me with inquiries, and that’s how it all started. I honestly thought this would just be a hobby, but when I saw how many people connected with my work, I decided to make it my career.
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?
I would say yes, it has been smooth. I’m very meticulous, detail-oriented, and deeply involved throughout every step until a project is completed. I can’t say there haven’t been issues or delays—those are part of the craft—but even when some projects get stressful, I truly love what I do, and that passion makes it easier.
I don’t think an education in Interior Design fully prepares you for what’s really ahead. I only have a diploma, so I honestly consider myself self-taught. Interior design is a craft—you can have all the ideas and creativity in the world, but there’s so much to learn from the tradespeople you work with. That collaboration and hands-on involvement, in my opinion, is what truly makes a great project.
As you know, we’re big fans of Christal Gines Interiors. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I’m the Owner and Lead Creative behind Christal Gines Interiors. We offer Virtual Design as well as Full-Service Design (including renovations), with a focus on residential spaces.
My design approach is modern with an old-world charm—a style I like to call Modern Nostalgia. It’s a refreshing take within Miami’s design scene. I design from the heart and love to break the rules. I don’t follow trends; I believe in timeless design—achieved through mixing design periods, wood tones, natural stones, and that touch of the unexpected.
I work independently, meaning I handle every aspect of the process—from design and procurement to implementation and final styling. Of course, I collaborate with a trusted team of trades—architects, general contractors, electricians, plumbers, plaster artisans, and more—for my full-service projects.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, and from the age of seven to thirteen, I spent most of my time with my grandma. She had a large house in the countryside, and ever since I can remember, I’ve had this natural urge to romanticize every detail of daily life and nature.
My bedroom had a spacious balcony overlooking a dense forest, and my absolute favorite thing to do was stand there while it rained. There was something magical about the sound, the smell, and the feeling of the raindrops on my face and hands.
It’s still my favorite thing to this day.
Pricing:
- All design packages are customized and tailored to the projects needs.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://christalgines.com
- Instagram: christal.gines.interiors
Image Credits
Photographers:
Abigail Mair
Christian Arevalo
