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It all began with a surprising announcement: Regina Reaves woke up one day to find her husband, Robin, declaring, “Surprise, we’re in business!” This bold transition from a stable job in property management to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship was sparked by a pandemic-driven realization that life is too short to delay dreams. The couple, who had long contemplated starting their own interior design firm, took the plunge, and thus R & R Interior Design 365 was born in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The beginnings of a colorful journey
Regina and Robin’s connection to the home décor world runs deep. Their paths first crossed in college while they worked together at Home Goods/TJ Maxx. Regina, managing returns in the rug department, often found herself at the mercy of Robin’s charm (or was it just a good work ethic?). Their playful banter set the stage for a partnership that would blend both their personal and professional lives. Fast forward a few years, and their design firm now showcases a portfolio bursting with personality—from vibrant violet armchairs to cerulean accent walls and audacious orange accents.
What strikes you immediately is the eclectic mix of styles they embrace. With influences ranging from Art Deco to modern minimalism, their projects are anything but conventional. They don’t adhere to a single design aesthetic; rather, they curate a unique identity for each client. Regina emphasizes the importance of cohesion, stating, “We leverage our diverse design backgrounds to bring cohesion to a space.” This philosophy allows them to create interiors that feel both personal and sophisticated.
However, the journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. The leap into entrepreneurship often feels like stepping off a cliff without a parachute, especially during an economic downturn when design services can be viewed as a luxury. Robin candidly shares, “Letting go of the safety net that comes with working for a company was frightening.” Yet, five years into their venture, they’ve not only survived but thrived, expanding their clientele beyond North Carolina.
The secret? Listening. It sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer. They engage their clients in a dialogue that encourages exploration beyond their comfort zones. The core belief driving their work is one that Regina learned from her mother: a house should feel like home. Robin echoes this sentiment, adding that art should reflect the passions of the homeowners, often incorporating works by artists like Malene Djenaba Barnett to enrich the narrative of each space.
Innovative designs that stand out
What makes a house irresistible? Regina believes it’s all about customization. “Creating a beautiful sofa or accent chair in a funky pattern always brings a room to life,” she explains. Their love for textiles and bold patterns is evident in every project, and they take pride in allowing clients to put their unique fingerprints on their spaces. Recently, they sourced a one-of-a-kind wallpaper that highlights significant figures in African Diaspora history—an ambitious and visually striking project they’re eager to bring to life.
Yet, it’s not just about aesthetics. Robin and Regina are also deeply influenced by cultural movements and historical eras, particularly the Roaring Twenties. “The Art Deco style with its luxurious materials and geometric shapes speaks to elevated opulence and sophistication,” Robin notes, and they infuse this inspiration into their designs. This cultural connection enriches their work, allowing them to create spaces that resonate on a deeper level.
Finding balance amidst chaos
As they navigate their growing business, the couple also wrestles with the challenges of family life. With two daughters—aged 16 and 8—who are actively involved in school and extracurricular activities, the balancing act can be overwhelming. “We’re constantly checking our schedules to adhere to commitments while being present for our kids’ events,” Regina shares. It’s a dance that requires flexibility and commitment, both to their work and family.
Looking ahead, the couple hopes to see a shift in design trends. Robin expresses a desire to move away from overly monochromatic spaces, advocating for bold colors and vibrant patterns that reflect individuality. “Life is too short for dull designs!” he asserts, a sentiment that resonates deeply with their philosophy of creating spaces that inspire and invigorate.
In this rapidly changing world, Regina and Robin Reaves are not just designing homes; they are crafting experiences that blend history, culture, and personal narratives into vibrant living spaces. As they continue to evolve their brand and approach, one thing is certain: their passion for design and commitment to their clients will keep them at the forefront of the interior design landscape.