about
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our studio
playful and timeless magical spaces
NLD creates bespoke interiors that blend modern elegance with comfort and whimsy. Each project is tailored to reflect clients’ personalities, lifestyles, and budgets, mixing styles and materials. We focus on balancing contrasts—high / low, modern / comfortable, warm / cool, unstructured / organized, new / old. Color and pattern play a vital role, giving every room its unique personality, while maintaining a holistic view of the space.
Based in Capitol Hill, D.C., we serve clients across the region and beyond, crafting homes that are beautiful, functional, and uniquely yours.
nicole lanteri, founder and principal designer
Nicole Lanteri founded her design firm in 2009, leaving a law career to pursue her passion for creating magical spaces. After five years working with hedge fund clients, a spontaneous trip to Paris revealed her true calling in design, space planning, and bringing joy to people’s lives.
Nicole’s love for design was shaped by the grasscloth walls, paisley sofas, and Marimekko bedding in her childhood home in Florida. Her aesthetic blends bold color, pattern, and mixing materials. Her 1938 Arlington, VA, home was featured in The New York Times for its vibrant use of color. Her work has also appeared in Architectural Digest, Frederic, The Washington Post, Martha Stewart, Domino, and more. She takes pride in elevating spaces with functional yet delightful design solutions.
our team
Our talented team takes a collaborative approach, making the design process thoughtful, enjoyable, and client-focused, while ensuring each project is elevated in both style and function.
aaron trent
Vice President + CFO
Aaron manages the crucial behind-the-scenes functions including financial and business operations. He also serves as the over-enthusiastic yet unofficial cheerleader for all things design and NLD.
lisa abrego
Head of Marketing + Client Experience
Lisa helps showcase the work we are most proud of to current and potential clients. She supports both the NLD design team and our clients as needed to enhance the design process.
lindsay sydness
Designer + Project Lead
Lindsay adds sharp organizational skills to her diligent sourcing and creative design. She’s always determined to “program a room to perfection” where every inch is used strategically.
nicole d'ercole
Designer + Project Lead
Nicole shines in creative thinking and design implementation. A wonderful mom herself, she loves designing kids rooms and incorporating playful elements to every room.
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