NINA FREUDENBERGER graduated from Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA and a Bachelor’s of Architecture in 2003. After working at various prestigious architecture firms, Nina opened Haus Interior in 2007. Her work has been awarded and published in Vogue, Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, NY Magazine, Domino and Martha Stewart. Nina published her first best-selling design book Surf Shack: Laid-Back Living by the Water, with Penguin/Clarkson Potter in June of 2017. Her second book Bibliostyle: How We Live at Home with Books, was published October 22nd, 2019. A third book will be published Fall of 2022 also with Penguin/Clarkson Potter.

1. Could you tell us how your journey into interior design started?

My journey began with my parents, who were always thoughtful about the home they created. They would take me to antique sales as a child, which shaped my appreciation for design. I attended RISD for their architecture program, completing the five-year curriculum. After graduating, I joined an architecture firm in NYC, where I was pushed into the interiors department. That’s when I realized how much I loved interior design—the nuances of creating a home, shorter timelines, and being more involved with clients. This experience really set me on the path to starting my own business.

2. Do you think there has been a defining moment in your career?

Absolutely! My books have been defining moments, especially my first one. With Surf Shack, I wanted to explore California design, and that journey took me around the world. It was a wonderful experience that allowed me to design homes in a research-driven way. Each of my three books has been pivotal in shaping my career and continues to mean so much to me.

3. What would be the ideal space to design for you?

Fortunately, I get to work on one of my dream projects—a hotel! I find designing hotels incredibly inspiring, as it allows me to curate a travel experience. While I primarily focus on private residential projects, the shift toward remote work post-COVID has led to more local interior designers being hired. I think working on projects in various locations is exciting and a great opportunity to discover new makers.

For me, success in interior design comes down to being thoughtful about all surfaces in a space. It’s not just about walls and furniture; flooring and transition spaces matter too. A cohesive body of work shows that attention to detail. It’s in the small details where true thoughtfulness shines through.

5. How do you get inspiration or fuel your creativity?

I draw a lot of inspiration from my travels for my books. I noticed that platforms like Pinterest and Instagram often circulate the same images, so I felt the need to seek inspiration in different ways. Visiting inspiring homes continuously fuels my creativity for interior design.

6. How would you define your signature style? Do you have “a mantra” that encapsulates your taste in design?

My style focuses on craftsmanship, elegance, and simplicity. I aim to create designs that aren’t overly complicated or ornate, yet remain beautiful and functional.

7. What was one of the hardest learned lessons in your journey?

One of the hardest lessons has been the importance of choosing your clients just as they choose you. It’s essential that you and your clients are a good match on multiple levels, including communication and enjoying the design process. When challenges arise during construction, it’s crucial to work together. It truly is a two-way street.

8. What would be your advice to beginner interior designers?

Say yes to everything! No project is beneath you. Be kind to yourself; as creatives, we tend to be our own harshest critics. Trust your instincts and give yourself space for creativity outside of business. It’s important not to get caught up in a go-go mentality. Just as you give to your clients, remember to give yourself that same care.

9. What are your favorite pieces from the Philia Collection?