About

Est. Collective is a design studio founded by Nicole Heininger, working across interiors, hospitality, retail, and lifestyle environments. Informed by a deep appreciation for historic architecture, European interiors, art, and the natural world, the studio creates spaces that feel rooted in history, connected to their surroundings, and enduring in their appeal.

Our approach balances timeless minimalism with warmth, texture, history, and a contemporary sensibility. Drawn to the patina of age, the beauty of authentic materials, and the quiet simplicity of natural forms, we favor a restrained aesthetic that embraces imperfection and a sense of nostalgia. The result is work that feels timeless, understated, and rich in character, with a sense of soul and understated luxury. Each space is shaped by its context, with an appreciation for craftsmanship, thoughtful detail, and the beauty of imperfection.

Led by Nicole Heininger, Est. Collective brings a breadth of experience across interior architecture, fashion and beauty, lifestyle retail, private residences, and notable hospitality projects, including hotels and restaurants. Nicole holds a degree in Interior Architecture and Design and has held design leadership positions at leading fashion brands, leading teams responsible for retail design and brand environments, as well as with Kelly Wearstler in Los Angeles and Roman and Williams in New York. Her experience spans retail environments, brand spaces, and interiors, bringing a thoughtful understanding of how design shapes both a sense of place and the experience of a brand.

At its core, Est. Collective believes thoughtful design can evoke emotion, stir the soul, create a lasting sense of place, and bring meaning to the spaces we inhabit.