Nina Takesh
Nina Takesh is a Los Angeles–based interior designer, entrepreneur, and creative director known for her refined yet bold approach to contemporary interiors. Through her eponymous studio, she works on residential and commercial projects internationally, combining bespoke furnishings, innovative materials, and architectural sensibility.
Born in Tehran and raised in Beverly Hills, Takesh was introduced to design from an early age through her father, a renowned architect, and her international upbringing between California, France, and Switzerland. Alongside her interior design practice, she is also the founder of several successful ventures, including the luxury baby boutique Petit Tresor. Today, she continues to build an international clientele while cultivating a strong presence across social media platforms.
“Curate the centuries, honor the classics, but dare to surprise.”
INTERVIEW
The linchpin of successful interior design is achieving the right balance of furniture and accessories. The pieces must not only have history but also tell a story and define the space beautifully. It is only through this keen eye that a successful interior can truly stand out and evoke a sensation. Mixing the right pieces is also a critical component of effective design.
My journey into interior design was influenced by my upbringing between Tehran and Beverly Hills, where I was exposed to diverse architectural and artistic influences. My father, an architect, and my artistic grandfather played significant roles in shaping my appreciation for design. After exploring the fashion industry in Paris and running a children’s boutique in Los Angeles, where I designed nurseries for celebrities, I rediscovered my passion for interiors. The pivotal moment came when I designed and built my own 6,000 square foot home, which challenged me creatively and ultimately led to the establishment of my own interior design firm.
A defining moment in my career was my collaboration with Ruggable. Previously, I had experience with licensing from owning a baby boutique, but this venture into the home decor category truly solidified my reach and appeal across both high-end and more accessible markets.
I discover new designers and affordable designs through a variety of methods. Estate sales are a personal favorite – I love scouring them for unique pieces and hidden gems that can add a touch of the extraordinary to a space. Beyond that, I regularly attend design fairs and local markets to spot emerging talent. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Pinterest, have become invaluable tools for discovering up-and-coming designers and small, innovative shops. I also make it a point to travel frequently, exploring different cities and cultures to find inspiration and connect with artisans and craftspeople who create original pieces. Additionally, I’ve cultivated a network of fellow design enthusiasts who often share their own finds and recommendations.
When I dive into a new project, it’s like embarking on an exciting journey. I start by really getting to know my clients and their space – it’s all about understanding their dreams and lifestyle. My time in Paris has left an indelible mark on my creative soul, and I often find myself weaving in touches of that Parisian magic. I love blending natural elements with unexpected finds, maybe a stunning piece from an estate sale or something inspired by a hidden Parisian alleyway. I’ll sketch out ideas, play with colors, and create mood boards that capture the essence of what we’re aiming for. It’s a fluid process, you know? Sometimes a single object can spark an entire design concept. At the end of the day, my goal is to create a space that not only looks beautiful but feels genuinely connected to the people who’ll call it home. It’s about crafting something that tells their story while adding a touch of the extraordinary.
One of the hardest lessons I learned in my practice was that not every interior design project will be accepted without changes. There were times when I wished clients were more open to pushing boundaries and embracing creative, interesting ideas. However, I understand that pushing boundaries often leads to pushback. Ultimately, the most challenging lesson was learning to let go and accept certain nuances in the design to satisfy the client.
My ideal client is someone who is open to pushing the boundaries of design, allowing me complete creative freedom to create a truly unique space. Of course, it would be ideal if the budget were limitless.
“Curate the centuries, honor the classics, but dare to surprise.” This mantra reflects my passion for weaving together timeless elegance with unexpected delights. I believe in respecting the soul of traditional design while injecting modern energy. I believe in spaces that tell a story, where cherished antiques mingle with daring modern pieces, and Parisian flair meets Art Deco boldness.
YouTube has been an incredible journey that’s transformed the way I approach design and connect with people. When I first started, I had no idea it would grow into what it is today. It’s been amazing to reach so many design enthusiasts and share my passion with them. The platform has pushed me to think differently about how I communicate my ideas, breaking down complex design concepts into bite-sized, visual pieces that anyone can understand and apply. This process has made me a better designer and educator.
What’s truly special is the community that’s grown around the channel. The comments, questions, and stories shared by viewers have opened my eyes to new perspectives and challenges in design. It’s like having a global team of collaborators and friends who inspire me daily. YouTube has given me the freedom to experiment, to share both successes and failures, and to be more authentic in my approach. It’s become an integral part of my creative process, not just about sharing what I know, but learning and growing together with this wonderful community. It’s truly humbling to see how a simple video can spark someone’s creativity or help them solve a design dilemma in their own home.
Don’t be afraid to start small and embrace your unique perspective. Design is about finding your voice, so experiment and take risks. Trust your instincts, but also be open to learning from everything and everyone around you. Every space, every object has a story to tell if you’re willing to listen.
Remember, great design isn’t just about making things look pretty. It’s about solving problems creatively and improving people’s lives. Be curious about your clients, their needs, and their dreams. Learn to balance aesthetics with functionality. And most importantly, never stop learning. The design world is always evolving, so stay hungry for new ideas, techniques, and inspirations. Whether it’s through books, travel, or simply observing your surroundings, keep feeding your creative spirit. Lastly, don’t get discouraged by setbacks. They’re part of the journey and often lead to your biggest breakthroughs. Stay passionate, stay persistent, and your unique design voice will shine through.
I’m in the process of flipping another magnificent home, and I’m collaborating with some amazing brands. I can’t reveal all the details just yet, but I promise it’s going to be something special. Stay tuned to my channel – I’ll be sharing updates as we progress.
On a larger scale, I’m thrilled to be working with MG Developers on an ultra-luxury project in Coral Gables. We’re creating a collection of 13 townhomes that will be the crown jewel of the “Biltmore Square” enclave. Named after George Merrick, the founder of Coral Gables. MG Developer acquired the last available parcel in this area late last year, and we’re aiming to break ground by the end of 2024. It’s going to be a landmark development, completing the master-planned Biltmore Square community. And because I can never sit still, I’ll also be tackling my own home again. It’s become a bit of a running joke how often I redesign my space, but what can I say? It’s my favorite canvas for trying out new ideas. I’m really looking forward to sharing all of these projects with you as they unfold.
Thank you so much Nina, for this lovely interview!
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