Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniela Nuila.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
MINT DECOR has been a long time in the making for me! In fact, my interest in Decorating and Design began as a child. I grew up in Miami and was exposed to many objects, styles, textures and combinations from around the world through my grandparents, who founded a well-known California staple: Cost Plus Imports (now known as World Market). From them I learned how to make a space truly special and unique. My fascination about how to put things together has been with me since then- allowing me to become very skilled at mixing patterns and colors to obtain the most unexpected results.
For 11 years, I lived in the DC area and began decorating homes, which led me to where I am today. I decided to come back to Miami (my happy place) and now live and work in Coconut Grove.
Having been back in MIA for five years now, I have had the opportunity to complete many wonderful projects for a diverse group of clients. Most recently I had the honor of being chosen to participate in the 2018 Junior League of Miami’s Design show house at the Historic Deering Estate. It was a privilege to have been chosen as one of the designers and be able to contribute to this charitable cause. That project in particular will always have a special place in my heart because I consider it a turning point for me- both creatively and professionally.
But no matter who the client is or what the budget may be, the same is true across the board:
HAPPY SPACES ALWAYS = HAPPY PEOPLE, and that’s why I do what I do and love what I do.
Has it been a smooth road?
I don’t believe that any person who decides to open a business is immune to obstacles and challenges along the way. The same rings true for me… Design definitely comes with its own unique challenges.
Getting started was not easy. I had just moved back to Miami after being gone for 11 years. I had to start over- get to know new people, figure out where to position myself, evaluate whether to work for someone or start my own business, etc… There were many times I had to reassess my plans. After all, I am also a mom of 2 girls (one is now 8 and the other is now 11) so my plan had to include making time for them. Thus, flexibility in my schedule was key. In that regard, I think I have been successful in achieving what I wanted.
From the business side there were also other things to consider. Being able to create from nothing is challenging in and of itself. And when you add clients into the mix that come to you with ideas, you must be able to mesh your own vision along with the client’s vision, as well as then evaluate whether or not that is a possibility in terms of budget and functionality. That being said, challenges and obstacles are not necessarily negative. I view all of my challenges and obstacles as an opportunity to grown and learn. Each and every time a difficulty with a client or project has presented itself, it has forced me to get even more creative in finding the proper solution. In the end, those lessons work toward perfecting what you set out to do in the first place: to be successful.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Mint Decor – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
My company is MINT DECOR and we do Interior Decorating and Design. We can design both residential and commercial spaces. I am known for my bold, playful and eclectic style. I love mixing old and new furnishings, as well as different styles, colors and patterns in the same space.
As a company, I am most proud of the team I have built and the projects completed. It takes time to find the right people and after a few years in the business, I feel I have succeeded in putting together a great team of individuals. Once you have that down, there is no limit to what you can achieve.
What sets us apart is a passion for what we do, no matter how big or small the project is. The clients I get usually find me. What I hear repeatedly from them is that they sought me out because of my unique style. Often, they want something different, full of life and color that they can enjoy living or working in. What that tells me is that they felt a connection to my work, and that connection between Designer and client is priceless.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love Miami. But what I love best about it is its energy- it’s vibe. I have lived in other places during parts of my life and I can say without hesitation that I never felt those places were for me. Miami just feels different- like it’s where I belong.
Living in Miami, We are all privileged to be next to the ocean. We can look at the ocean every day, breathe the ocean air. And for me living in Coconut Grove, it’s one of the things I most appreciate (apart from its walkability and boho, laid back vibe). The Grove truly is a unique little pocket of Miami. The vegetation is like no other and the ocean is everywhere. I am lucky to call it my home.
What I dislike about our city is its inability to connect people from one place to another easily and efficiently. Without a proper metro system to connect us all, we must rely on our cars each and every day. I hope we have more “walkable” neighborhoods in Miami in the near future that are interconnected with some sort of easy transportation system. Having the ease of moving from one place to another is so important because it moves people and ideas, innovation and investment of all kinds constantly. This would definitely be a game changer for Miami natives!
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.mintdecormiami.com
- Phone: 571-283-9093
- Email: daniela@mintdecormiami.com
- Instagram: Daniela_mint_decor_inc
- Facebook: Danielanuilarealestateanddecorating
- Twitter: @daniela_nuila
- Other: https://www.houzz.com/pro/dnuila/mint-decor-inc
Image Credit:
Interior decorating and design: Daniela Nuila, Mint Decor
Photography: Jeffrey A. McDonald, JAM Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
