Ep. 72: collector, decorator, and hoarder Nicki Clendening

Nicki Clendening is known for her eclectic style and ability to incorporate vintage and thrift store treasures into her design projects. Today, she talks about how to weave in old with the new, what she looks for when shopping at flea markets and antique stores, the opening of her design studio Scout Design and online store Beetle, and why blue painters tape should be your best friend. We will also hear some Trials and Triumphs, and get Nicki’s feedback on how to bring a small space together.

What You’ll Hear on This Episode:

Trials and triumphs including new cookbooks, missing plants, cool performance rugs and more

How Nicki’s dreams progressed from being Indiana Jones to working and living in New York, making money doing exactly what she loves to do

What shopping for a client looks like, and if Nicki has ever had buyers remorse

More about Nicki’s design studio, Scout Design

Where she likes to go to shop for both herself and Beetle, and how she finds one of a kind pieces to add to her collection

The inspiration her mom had on her in terms of art, creativity and fashion and her family’s love of global travel and collecting special items from all around the world

Her top picks for flea markets, and the importance of building great relationships with vendors

Functionality is key, along with using the space appropriately based on what your typical activities are (entertaining, reading, pets, etc)

How she came up with her online store, Beetle, and curates what is on the site

A glimpse into her own apartment, right at the top of Central Park

Why we shouldn’t be afraid to paint the ceiling

All about the mix of new and old, whether you own your home or you are renting