24. Interior Design with Soul: Nina’s Story Behind Paloma Studios and That 70s Bungalow

This chat felt especially authentic and creatively energising. What began as a passion project has unfolded into a full-bodied creative business: storytelling through space, reimagining nostalgic design moments, building community, and saying "why not?"

In this episode of Behind the Design, Camilla sits down with Nina, the creative founder of Paloma Studios and the visionary behind That 70s Bungalow, to unpack how a personal renovation project blossomed into a soulful, full-time design business. From DIY renovations in Newcastle to building an interior design brand rooted in emotion, storytelling, and bold aesthetics - Nina shares her journey of saying yes to creativity, even without the “perfect plan.” We dive into: How a first home reno sparked a design career Turning passion projects into a profitable business Balancing motherhood with building a creative brand Designing with feeling instead of following trends The early days of Paloma Studios and growing a recognisable aesthetic Collaborating with suppliers and sourcing with intention Dealing with imposter syndrome in the interior design industry Tips for renovators, creatives, and women starting from scratch If you’re dreaming of your own creative pivot, in the messy middle of a project, or simply obsessed with nostalgic interiors and storytelling through design - this episode is your permission slip.

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Follow Paloma Studios: https://www.palomastudios.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/palomastudios_/

00:00:00 – Welcome to the Show 00:01:28 – Meet Nina of Paloma Studios 00:01:46 – From Reno to Design Career 00:05:36 – Building Client Trust 00:07:33 – ADHD & Creative Workflow 00:07:53 – Starting Paloma Studios 00:15:26 – Designing by Feel, Not Trends 00:15:54 – Playing with Colour & Risk 00:16:08 – Solving Design Challenges 00:20:45 – Balancing Motherhood & Business 00:23:40 – Tackling Imposter Syndrome 00:23:57 – Leading with Authenticity 00:28:22 – Crafting a Unique Style 00:31:03 – Pinterest as Design Tool 00:32:30 – Five Minute Blinds Collab 00:34:06 – Staying Open in the Process 00:35:42 – Strong Supplier Relationships 00:40:06 – Inside Client Consultations 00:47:22 – Advice for New Designers 00:49:01 – Mood Boards that Work

* Interior Design * Creative Journey * Home Renovation * Design Podcast * Women In Design * Colorful Interiors * Paloma Studios * Interior design career journey * Paloma Studios founder * Women in design business * Creative entrepreneur story * Bold home interiors * Emotional design over trends * Renovation to design studio * Self-taught interior designer * Designing with color and feeling * Balancing motherhood and creativity